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Chen J, Chen X, Guo W, Tang W, Zhang Y, Tian X, Zou Y. Comparison of the gene expression profile of testicular tissue before and after sexual maturity in Qianbei Ma goats. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:92. [PMID: 38459496 PMCID: PMC10921700 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03932-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With long-term research on the reproductive ability of Qianbei Ma goat, we found that the puberty of the male goats comes at the age of 3 months and reaches sexual maturity at 4 months,the male goats are identified as physically mature at 9 months and able to mate. Compared with other kinds of breeds of goats, Qianbei Ma goat is featured with more faster growth and earlier sexual maturity.Therefore, in order to explore the laws of growth of Qianbei Ma goat before sexual maturity(3-month-old)and after sexual maturity (9-month-old). The testicular tissue was collected to explore their changes in morphology through HE staining, the serum was collected to detect the hormone content, and the mRNA expression profile of the testis was analyzed by transcriptomics. In this way, the effect of testicular development on the reproduction of Qianbei ma goats was further analyzed. RESULTS The results showed that the area and diameter of spermatogenic tubules were larger at 9 months than 3 months, and the number of spermatocytes, interstitial cells, spermatogonia and secondary spermatocytes in the lumen of the tubules showed a similar trend. The appearance of spermatozoa at age 3 months indicated that puberty had begun in Qianbei Ma goats. The Elasa test for testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone and anti-Müllerian hormone showed that the levels of these hormones in the serum at age 9 months were all highly significantly different than those at age 3 months (P < 0.01). There were 490 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the (|log2(fold change)| > 1 and p value < 0.05) 3-month-old and 9-month-old groups, of which 233 genes were upregulated and 257 genes were downregulated (3 months of age was used as the control group and 9 months of age was used as the experimental group). According to the GO and KEGG enrichment analyses of DEGs, PRSS58, ECM1, WFDC8 and LHCGR are involved in testicular development and androgen secretion, which contribute to the sexual maturation of Qianbei Ma goats. CONCLUSIONS Potential biomarker genes and relevant pathways involved in the regulation of testicular development and spermatogenesis in Qianbei Ma goats were identified, providing a theoretical basis and data support for later studies on the influence of testicular development and spermatogenesis before and after sexual maturity in Qianbei Ma goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajing Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Xiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
| | - Wei Guo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Wen Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Xingzhou Tian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yue Zou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
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Lafta MS, Mwinyi J, Affatato O, Rukh G, Dang J, Andersson G, Schiöth HB. Exploring sex differences: insights into gene expression, neuroanatomy, neurochemistry, cognition, and pathology. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1340108. [PMID: 38449735 PMCID: PMC10915038 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1340108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Increased knowledge about sex differences is important for development of individualized treatments against many diseases as well as understanding behavioral and pathological differences. This review summarizes sex chromosome effects on gene expression, epigenetics, and hormones in relation to the brain. We explore neuroanatomy, neurochemistry, cognition, and brain pathology aiming to explain the current state of the art. While some domains exhibit strong differences, others reveal subtle differences whose overall significance warrants clarification. We hope that the current review increases awareness and serves as a basis for the planning of future studies that consider both sexes equally regarding similarities and differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muataz S. Lafta
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Functional Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jessica Mwinyi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Functional Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Centre for Women’s Mental Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Oreste Affatato
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Functional Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Centre for Women’s Mental Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gull Rukh
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Functional Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Junhua Dang
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Functional Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helgi B. Schiöth
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Functional Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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3
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Cannarella R, Condorelli RA, Gusmano C, Garofalo V, Aversa A, Calogero AE, La Vignera S. Predictive role of 17α-hydroxy-progesterone serum levels of response to follicle-stimulating hormone in patients with abnormal sperm parameters. Fertil Steril 2023; 120:1193-1202. [PMID: 37748551 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.09.013] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To study the possible role of serum 17α-hydroxy-progesterone (17αOH-P) levels in predicting favorable responses to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) administration in patients with normal serum FSH levels and idiopathic abnormal sperm parameters. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING University-affiliated fertility center. PATIENTS Fifty patients with oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, and/or teratozoospermia and normal serum levels of gonadotropins and total testosterone (TT). INTERVENTION Treatment with exogenous FSH is administered subcutaneously at a dose of 150 IU 3 times a week for 3 consecutive months. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Luteinizing hormone levels, FSH levels, TT levels, 17αOH-P levels, testicular volume, conventional sperm parameters, and seminal spermatid concentration were evaluated before and after therapy. To evaluate the predictive role of pretreatment serum 17αOH-P levels on FSH responsiveness, the doubling of sperm concentration at the end of the FSH administration was considered a positive outcome. RESULTS After therapy, patients showed a significant increase in sperm concentration, total sperm count (TSC), progressive motility, percentage of normal forms, FSH levels, TT levels, and testicular volume. There was a negative correlation between pretreatment 17αOH-P levels and the posttreatment increase in sperm concentration, TSC, progressive motility, and normal morphology, and a positive correlation with the posttreatment increase in spermatids. Predictive analysis showed that 17αOH-P levels (<1.18 ng/mL) foretold a doubling of sperm concentration with a sensitivity of 90.0% and a specificity of 73.3%, and of TSC with a sensitivity of 91.3% and a specificity of 81.48%. CONCLUSION The results of this study suggest that pretreatment serum levels of 17αOH-P, a marker of steroidogenic function, appear to be able to predict the success of subcutaneous administration of exogenous FSH in terms of spermatogenesis improvement. Receiver operating characteristic curves indicated that 17αOH-P levels (<1.18 ng/mL) predict a doubling of sperm concentration and TSC after exogenous FSH administration to patients with idiopathic abnormal sperm parameters and normal gonadotropin levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Rosita A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carmelo Gusmano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Garofalo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Aversa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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4
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Sosa E, Mumu SK, Alvarado CC, Wu QY, Roberson I, Espinoza A, Hsu FM, Saito K, Hunt TJ, Faith JE, Lowe MG, DiRusso JA, Clark AT. Reconstituted ovaries self-assemble without an ovarian surface epithelium. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:2190-2202. [PMID: 37890483 PMCID: PMC10679655 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.10.001] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) stem cell models of the ovary have the potential to benefit women's reproductive health research. One such model, the reconstituted ovary (rOvary) self-assembles with pluripotent stem cell-derived germ cells creating a 3D ovarian mimic competent to support the differentiation of functional oocytes inside follicles. In this study, we evaluated the cellular composition of the rOvary revealing the capacity to generate multiple follicles surrounded by NR2F2+ stroma cells. However, the rOvary does not develop a surface epithelium, the source of second-wave pre-granulosa cells, or steroidogenic theca. Therefore, the rOvary models represent the self-assembly of activated follicles in a pre-pubertal ovary poised but not yet competent for hormone production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Sosa
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Center for Reproductive Science, Health and Education, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Sinthia Kabir Mumu
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Center for Reproductive Science, Health and Education, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Christian C Alvarado
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Center for Reproductive Science, Health and Education, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Qiu Ya Wu
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Center for Reproductive Science, Health and Education, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Isaias Roberson
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Center for Reproductive Science, Health and Education, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Alejandro Espinoza
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Institute for Quantitative and Computational Biosciences - The Collaboratory, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Fei-Man Hsu
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Kaori Saito
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Timothy J Hunt
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jared E Faith
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Matthew G Lowe
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jonathan A DiRusso
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Center for Reproductive Science, Health and Education, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Amander T Clark
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Center for Reproductive Science, Health and Education, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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5
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Wang G, Lu R, Gao Y, Zhang H, Shi X, Ma W, Wu L, Tian X, Liu H, Jiang H, Li X, Ma X. Molecular characterization and potential function of Rxrγ in gonadal differentiation of Chinese soft-shelled turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis). J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2023; 233:106360. [PMID: 37429547 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Retinoid X receptor (RXR) is a member of the ligand-dependent nuclear receptor family. Previous studies revealed that RXRs are involved in reproduction in vertebrates. However, information on the function of RXRs in turtles is scarce. In this study, the Rxrγ cDNA sequence of Pelodiscus sinensis was cloned and analyzed, and a polyclonal antibody was constructed. RXRγ protein showed a positive signal in both mature and differentiated gonads of the turtle. Subsequently, the function of the Rxrγ gene in gonadal differentiation was confirmed using short interfering RNA (RNAi). The full-length cDNA sequence of the Rxrγ gene in P. sinensis was 2152 bp, encoding 407 amino acids and containing typical nuclear receptor family domains, including the DNA-binding domain (DBD), ligand-binding domain (LBD), and activation function 1 (AF1). Moreover, gonadal Ps-Rxrγ showed sexual dimorphism expression patterns in differentiated gonads. Real-time quantitative PCR results revealed that the Rxrγ gene was highly expressed in the turtle ovary. RNAi treatment increased the number of Sertoli cells in ZZ embryonic gonads. Furthermore, RNA interference upregulated Dmrt1 and Sox9 in ZZ and ZW embryonic gonads. However, Foxl2, Cyp19a1, Stra8, and Cyp26b1 were downregulated in embryonic gonads. The results indicated that Rxrγ participated in gonadal differentiation and development in P. sinensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guiyu Wang
- College of Fisheries Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Ruiyi Lu
- College of Fisheries Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Yijie Gao
- College of Fisheries Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Haoran Zhang
- College of Fisheries Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Xi Shi
- College of Fisheries Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Wenge Ma
- College of Fisheries Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Limin Wu
- College of Fisheries Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Xue Tian
- College of Fisheries Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Huifen Liu
- College of Fisheries Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Hongxia Jiang
- College of Fisheries Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Xuejun Li
- College of Fisheries Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China.
| | - Xiao Ma
- College of Fisheries Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China.
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Schindler M, Osterwalder M, Harabula I, Wittler L, Tzika AC, Dechmann DKN, Vingron M, Visel A, Haas SA, Real FM. Induction of kidney-related gene programs through co-option of SALL1 in mole ovotestes. Development 2023; 150:dev201562. [PMID: 37519269 PMCID: PMC10499028 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Changes in gene expression represent an important source of phenotypic innovation. Yet how such changes emerge and impact the evolution of traits remains elusive. Here, we explore the molecular mechanisms associated with the development of masculinizing ovotestes in female moles. By performing integrative analyses of epigenetic and transcriptional data in mole and mouse, we identified the co-option of SALL1 expression in mole ovotestes formation. Chromosome conformation capture analyses highlight a striking conservation of the 3D organization at the SALL1 locus, but an evolutionary divergence of enhancer activity. Interspecies reporter assays support the capability of mole-specific enhancers to activate transcription in urogenital tissues. Through overexpression experiments in transgenic mice, we further demonstrate the capability of SALL1 to induce kidney-related gene programs, which are a signature of mole ovotestes. Our results highlight the co-option of gene expression, through changes in enhancer activity, as a plausible mechanism for the evolution of traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Schindler
- Gene Regulation & Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin 14195, Germany
- Institute for Medical and Human Genetics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin 13353, Germany
| | - Marco Osterwalder
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern 3008, Switzerland
- Department of Cardiology, Bern University Hospital, Bern 3010, Switzerland
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Izabela Harabula
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture, Max-Delbrück-Centrum für Molekulare Medizin (MDC), Berlin 10115, Germany
| | - Lars Wittler
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Transgenic Unit, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Athanasia C. Tzika
- Department of Genetics & Evolution, University of Geneva, Geneva 1205, Switzerland
| | - Dina K. N. Dechmann
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute for Animal Behavior, Radolfzell 78315, Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz 78457, Germany
| | - Martin Vingron
- Department of Computational Molecular Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Axel Visel
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
- Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
- School of Natural Sciences, University of California, Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - Stefan A. Haas
- Department of Computational Molecular Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Francisca M. Real
- Gene Regulation & Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin 14195, Germany
- Institute for Medical and Human Genetics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin 13353, Germany
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Pasquini Neto R, Carnielli Tebet ML, Ivanski Dória de Vasconcelos O, Faucz Munhoz da Cunha M, Figueroa Magalhães MC. Bilateral Gonadal Dysgerminoma in a Phenotypic Female With 46,XY Disorder of Sexual Development: A Case Report. Cureus 2023; 15:e38149. [PMID: 37252506 PMCID: PMC10215025 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.38149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The 46,XY disorder of sexual development (DSD) is a rare congenital condition characterized by a 46,XY karyotype associated with complete or disturbed female gonadal development and a non-virilized phenotype. The presence of Y chromosome material in these patients' karyotypes increases the risk of germ cell tumor development. The present study reports a unique case of a 16-year-old phenotypically female patient presenting with primary amenorrhea, who was later diagnosed with 46,XY DSD. After bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, the patient was diagnosed with stage IIIC dysgerminoma. The patient received four cycles of chemotherapy and showed a good response. The patient is currently alive and well, with no evidence of disease after the residual lymph node resection.
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8
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Adolfi MC, Depincé A, Wen M, Pan Q, Herpin A. Development of Ovaries and Sex Change in Fish: Bringing Potential into Action. Sex Dev 2023; 17:84-98. [PMID: 36878204 DOI: 10.1159/000526008] [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: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Encompassing about half of the 60,000 species of vertebrates, fish display the greatest diversity of sex determination mechanisms among metazoans. As such that phylum offers a unique playground to study the impressive variety of gonadal morphogenetic strategies, ranging from gonochorism, with either genetic or environmental sex determination, to unisexuality, with either simultaneous or consecutive hermaphroditism. SUMMARY From the two main types of gonads, the ovaries embrace the important role to produce the larger and non-motile gametes, which is the basis for the development of a future organism. The production of the egg cells is complex and involves the formation of follicular cells, which are necessary for the maturation of the oocytes and the production of feminine hormones. In this vein, our review focuses on the development of ovaries in fish with special emphasis on the germ cells, including those that transition from one sex to the other as part of their life cycle and those that are capable of transitioning to the opposite sex depending on environmental cues. KEY MESSAGES Clearly, establishing an individual as either a female or a male is not accomplished by the sole development of two types of gonads. In most cases, that dichotomy, be it final or transient, is accompanied by coordinated transformations across the entire organism, leading to changes in the physiological sex as a whole. These coordinated transformations require both molecular and neuroendocrine networks, but also anatomical and behavioural adjustments. Remarkably, fish managed to tame the ins and outs of sex reversal mechanisms to take the most advantages of changing sex as adaptive strategies in some situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus Contar Adolfi
- Developmental Biochemistry, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Ming Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiaowei Pan
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Amaury Herpin
- Fish Physiology and Genomics, INRAE, UR 1037, Rennes, France
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9
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Bhattacharya I, Dey S. Emerging concepts on Leydig cell development in fetal and adult testis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 13:1086276. [PMID: 36686449 PMCID: PMC9851038 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1086276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Leydig cells (Lc) reside in the interstitial compartment of the testis and are the target of Luteinising hormone (LH) for Testosterone (T) production, thus critically regulates male fertility. Classical histological studies have identified two morphologically different populations of Lc during testicular development [fetal (FLc) and adult (ALc)]. Recent progress in ex vivo cell/organ culture, genome-wide analysis, genetically manipulated mouse models, lineage tracing, and single-cell RNA-seq experiments have revealed the diverse cellular origins with differential transcriptomic and distinct steroidogenic outputs of these populations. FLc originates from both coelomic epithelium and notch-active Nestin-positive perivascular cells located at the gonad-mesonephros borders, and get specified as Nr5a1 (previously known as Ad4BP/SF-1) expressing cells by embryonic age (E) 12.5 days in fetal mouse testes. These cells produce androstenedione (precursor of T, due to lack of HSD17β3 enzyme) and play critical a role in initial virilization and patterning of the male external genitalia. However, in neonatal testis, FLc undergoes massive regression/dedifferentiation and gradually gets replaced by T-producing ALc. Very recent studies suggest a small fraction (5-20%) of FLc still persists in adult testis. Both Nestin-positive perivascular cells and FLc are considered to be the progenitor populations for ALc. This minireview article summarizes the current understanding of Lc development in fetal and adult testes highlighting their common or diverse cellular (progenitor/stem) origins with respective functional significance in both rodents and primates. (227 words).
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, School of Biological Science, Central University of Kerala, Periye, Kerala, India
| | - Souvik Dey
- Manipal Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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10
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Pei J, Xiong L, Guo S, Wang X, Bao P, Wu X, Yan P, Guo X. A single-cell transcriptomic atlas characterizes cell types and their molecular features in yak ovarian cortex. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22718. [PMID: 36527406 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201176rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The ovary as one of the most dynamic organs produces steroids to orchestrate female secondary sexual characteristics, harbors ovarian reserve for oocytes, releases mature oocytes for fertilization, and maintains pregnancy. Yak (Bos grunniens) is the only bovid animal that can adapt to the harsh climatic conditions on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (altitudes of over 3000 m above sea level). However, the cellular atlas is composed of oocytes and other somatic cells, and their individual molecular characteristics remain to be elucidated in the yak ovary. Here, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed to delineate the molecular signature of various cell types in the yak ovarian cortex. A cellular atlas of yak ovarian cortex was constructed successfully on the basis of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the distinct cell types and their functional enrichment analysis, comprising endothelial cells, nature kill cells, stromal cells, smooth muscle cells, oocytes, macrophages, epithelial cells, and granulosa cells. Meanwhile, the signature genes were determined based on their expression specificity in each cell type. A cell-to-cell communication network was built in light of the differentially overexpressed ligand and receptor genes from each cell type. Further, the oocytes were subdivided into four subtypes based on their individual DEGs and the functional enrichment of the DEGs. FST and TOP2A were identified as maker genes for oocytes by immunostaining in the yak ovarian cortex. The cellular atlas reveals the biological characteristics of the ovarian cortex at the cellular molecular level and provides insights into female reproductive biology via cellular communications in the yak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Pei
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou, China
| | - Lin Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou, China
| | - Shaoke Guo
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xingdong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Pengjia Bao
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ping Yan
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xian Guo
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou, China
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11
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Pryzhkova MV, Boers R, Jordan PW. Modeling Human Gonad Development in Organoids. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2022; 19:1185-1206. [PMID: 36350469 PMCID: PMC9679106 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-022-00492-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our learning about human reproductive development is greatly hampered due to the absence of an adequate model. Animal studies cannot truthfully recapitulate human developmental processes, and studies of human fetal tissues are limited by their availability and ethical restrictions. Innovative three-dimensional (3D) organoid technology utilizing human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) offered a new approach to study tissue and organ development in vitro. However, a system for modeling human gonad development has not been established, thus, limiting our ability to study causes of infertility. METHODS In our study we utilized the 3D hPSC organoid culture in mini-spin bioreactors. Relying on intrinsic self-organizing and differentiation capabilities of stem cells, we explored whether organoids could mimic the development of human embryonic and fetal gonad. RESULTS We have developed a simple, bioreactor-based organoid system for modeling early human gonad development. Male hPSC-derived organoids follow the embryonic gonad developmental trajectory and differentiate into multipotent progenitors, which further specialize into testicular supporting and interstitial cells. We demonstrated functional activity of the generated cell types by analyzing the expression of cell type-specific markers. Furthermore, the specification of gonadal progenitors in organoid culture was accompanied by the characteristic architectural tissue organization. CONCLUSION This organoid system opens the opportunity for detailed studies of human gonad and germ cell development that can advance our understanding of sex development disorders. Implementation of human gonad organoid technology could be extended to modeling causes of infertility and regenerative medicine applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina V Pryzhkova
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
| | - Romina Boers
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra, 1117 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Philip W Jordan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
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12
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Turner Syndrome Mosaicism 45,X/46,XY with Genital Ambiguity and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: Translational Approach of a Rare Italian Case. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214408. [PMID: 36430887 PMCID: PMC9692496 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Turner syndrome (gonadal dysgenesis with short stature and sterility) is characterized by chromosomal karyotype 45,X in 50% of cases or by mosaicism (45,X/46,XX and 45,X/46,XY) in 30-40% or X structural defects (deletions, long arm isochromosome, ring chromosome). When mosaic Turner syndrome (TS) occurs with a Y chromosome, there may be ambiguous genitalia. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an inherited neuromuscular disease with an X-Linked recessive pattern of inheritance that predominantly affects males, while females are usually asymptomatic. DMD has also been observed in groups of females affected by TS, not homozygous for the mutation. Here, we report a case of an Indian neonate born with ambiguous genitalia diagnosed prenatally by ultrasound who had a karyotype of 45,X/46,XY and who also had Duchenne muscular dystrophy caused by a de novo mutation in the DMD gene. Physical examination was normal without the typical dysmorphic features of TS with the exception of the genitourinary system showing ambiguous genitalia. Gender was assigned as female. At the age of three years, she had increasing difficulty walking, running, jumping and climbing stairs, proximal upper and lower extremity muscle weakness and a positive Gowers' sign. In addition, the serum creatine kinase (CK) value was over 30X the upper limit of normal. This study shows that DMD can occur in females with TS having 45,X/46,XY mosaicism and that this coexistence should be considered in women affected by TS who start to develop potential typical symptoms such as motor or developmental delay.
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13
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Alhasnani MA, Loeb S, Hall SJ, Caruolo Z, Simmonds F, Solano AE, Spade DJ. Interaction between mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and retinoic acid alters Sertoli cell development during fetal mouse testis cord morphogenesis. Curr Res Toxicol 2022; 3:100087. [PMID: 36189433 PMCID: PMC9520016 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2022.100087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Phthalic acid esters (phthalates) are a class of industrial chemicals that cause developmental and reproductive toxicity, but there are significant gaps in knowledge of phthalate toxicity mechanisms. There is evidence that phthalates disrupt retinoic acid signaling in the fetal testis, potentially disrupting control of spatial and temporal patterns of testis development. Our goal was to determine how a phthalate would interact with retinoic acid signaling during fetal mouse testis development. We hypothesized that mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) would exacerbate the adverse effect of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) on seminiferous cord development in the mouse fetal testis. To test this hypothesis, gestational day (GD) 14 C57BL/6 mouse testes were isolated and cultured on media containing MEHP, ATRA, or a combination of both compounds. Cultured testes were collected for global transcriptome analysis after one day in culture and for histology and immunofluorescent analysis of Sertoli cell differentiation after three days in culture. ATRA disrupted seminiferous cord morphogenesis and induced aberrant FOXL2 expression. MEHP alone had no significant effect on cord development, but combined exposure to MEHP and ATRA increased the number of FOXL2-positive cells, reduced seminiferous cord number, and increased testosterone levels, beyond the effect of ATRA alone. In RNA-seq analysis, ATRA treatment and MEHP treatment resulted in differential expression of genes 510 and 134 genes, respectively, including 70 common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the two treatments, including genes with known roles in fetal testis development. MEHP DEGs included RAR target genes, genes involved in angiogenesis, and developmental patterning genes, including members of the homeobox superfamily. These results support the hypothesis that MEHP modulates retinoic acid signaling in the mouse fetal testis and provide insight into potential mechanisms by which phthalates disrupt seminiferous cord morphogenesis.
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Key Words
- ATRA, All-trans retinoic acid. CAS # 302-79-4
- DMSO, dimethyl sulfoxide
- Fetal testis development
- GD, gestational day
- GO, Gene Ontology
- IPA, Ingenuity Pathway Analysis
- ITCN, Image-based Tool for Counting Nuclei
- MEHP, mono-(2-ethylheyxl) phthalate. CAS # 4376-20-9
- MNGs, multinucleated germ cells
- PVC, polyvinyl chloride
- Phthalate toxicity
- Retinoic acid
- Sertoli cell
- TDS, testicular dysgenesis syndrome
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha A. Alhasnani
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Box G-E5, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Skylar Loeb
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Box G-E5, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Susan J. Hall
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Box G-E5, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Zachary Caruolo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Box G-E5, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Faith Simmonds
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Box G-E5, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Amanda E. Solano
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Box G-E5, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Daniel J. Spade
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Box G-E5, Providence, RI 02912, USA
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14
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Li Y, Wu Q, Li X, Von Tungeln LS, Beland FA, Petibone D, Guo L, Cournoyer P, Choudhuri S, Chen S. In vitro effects of cannabidiol and its main metabolites in mouse and human Sertoli cells. Food Chem Toxicol 2021; 159:112722. [PMID: 34871667 PMCID: PMC10123765 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2021.112722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a major cannabinoid present in extracts of the plant Cannabis sativa (marijuana). While the therapeutic effects of CBD on epilepsy have been demonstrated, less is understood regarding its potential adverse effects. Recent studies revealed that CBD induced toxicity in the male reproductive system of animal models. In this study, we used TM4, an immortalized mouse Sertoli cell line, and primary human Sertoli cells to evaluate the toxicities of CBD and its main metabolites, 7-carboxy-CBD and 7-hydroxy-CBD. CBD induced concentration- and time-dependent cytotoxicity in mouse and human Sertoli cells, which mainly resulted from the inhibition of the G1/S-phase cell cycle transition. CBD also inhibited DNA synthesis and downregulated key cell cycle proteins. Moreover, CBD reduced the mRNA and protein levels of a functional marker, Wilms' tumor 1. Similar to CBD, 7-carboxy-CBD and 7-hydroxy-CBD inhibited cellular proliferation and decreased DNA synthesis. 7-Carboxy-CBD was less cytotoxic than CBD, while 7-hydroxy-CBD showed comparable cytotoxicity to CBD in both mouse and human Sertoli cells. Compared to mouse Sertoli cells, CBD, 7-hydroxy-CBD, and 7-carboxy-CBD were more cytotoxic in human Sertoli cells. Our results indicate that CBD and its main metabolites can inhibit cell proliferation in mouse and human Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi Li
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 3900 NCTR Road, Jefferson, AR, 72079, USA
| | - Qiangen Wu
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 3900 NCTR Road, Jefferson, AR, 72079, USA
| | - Xilin Li
- Division of Genetic and Molecular Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 3900 NCTR Road, Jefferson, AR, 72079, USA
| | - Linda S Von Tungeln
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 3900 NCTR Road, Jefferson, AR, 72079, USA
| | - Frederick A Beland
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 3900 NCTR Road, Jefferson, AR, 72079, USA
| | - Dayton Petibone
- Division of Genetic and Molecular Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 3900 NCTR Road, Jefferson, AR, 72079, USA
| | - Lei Guo
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 3900 NCTR Road, Jefferson, AR, 72079, USA
| | - Patrick Cournoyer
- Office of Food Additive Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, MD, 20740, USA
| | - Supratim Choudhuri
- Office of Food Additive Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, MD, 20740, USA
| | - Si Chen
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 3900 NCTR Road, Jefferson, AR, 72079, USA.
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15
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Shi W, Sheng X, Dorr KM, Hutton JE, Emerson JI, Davies HA, Andrade TD, Wasson LK, Greco TM, Hashimoto Y, Federspiel JD, Robbe ZL, Chen X, Arnold AP, Cristea IM, Conlon FL. Cardiac proteomics reveals sex chromosome-dependent differences between males and females that arise prior to gonad formation. Dev Cell 2021; 56:3019-3034.e7. [PMID: 34655525 PMCID: PMC9290207 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2021.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Sex disparities in cardiac homeostasis and heart disease are well documented, with differences attributed to actions of sex hormones. However, studies have indicated sex chromosomes act outside of the gonads to function without mediation by gonadal hormones. Here, we performed transcriptional and proteomics profiling to define differences between male and female mouse hearts. We demonstrate, contrary to current dogma, cardiac sex disparities are controlled not only by sex hormones but also through a sex-chromosome mechanism. Using Turner syndrome (XO) and Klinefelter (XXY) models, we find the sex-chromosome pathway is established by X-linked gene dosage. We demonstrate cardiac sex disparities occur at the earliest stages of heart formation, a period before gonad formation. Using these datasets, we identify and define a role for alpha-1B-glycoprotein (A1BG), showing loss of A1BG leads to cardiac defects in females, but not males. These studies provide resources for studying sex-biased cardiac disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Shi
- Department of Biology and Genetics, McAllister Heart Institute, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Xinlei Sheng
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Kerry M Dorr
- Department of Biology and Genetics, McAllister Heart Institute, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Josiah E Hutton
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - James I Emerson
- Department of Biology and Genetics, McAllister Heart Institute, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Haley A Davies
- Department of Biology and Genetics, McAllister Heart Institute, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Tia D Andrade
- Department of Biology and Genetics, McAllister Heart Institute, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Lauren K Wasson
- Department of Biology and Genetics, McAllister Heart Institute, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Todd M Greco
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Yutaka Hashimoto
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Joel D Federspiel
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Zachary L Robbe
- Department of Biology and Genetics, McAllister Heart Institute, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Xuqi Chen
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Arthur P Arnold
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Ileana M Cristea
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
| | - Frank L Conlon
- Department of Biology and Genetics, McAllister Heart Institute, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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16
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Molele RA, Mahdy MAA, Zakariah M, Ibrahim MIA, Fosgate GT, Brown G. Age-related histomorphometric and ultrastructural changes in the Sertoli cells of Japanese quail (Coturnix Coturnix japonica). Tissue Cell 2021; 73:101650. [PMID: 34555776 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Prepared sections from pre-pubertal, pubertal, adult, and aged Japanese quail testes were examined by light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and measurements of seminiferous tubular diameter (STD), luminal diameter (SLD), epithelial height (SEH) and cross-sectional area of the seminiferous tubules (AST) were taken using an image analyzer. Apoptotic Sertoli cells with features such as cell shrinkage and chromatin condensation were observed in pre-pubertal and aged quail. There was a significant difference between the mean Sertoli cell number (SCN), SLD, SEH, STD and AST among the four age groups (P < 0.001). The highest SCN (mean ± standard error) was recorded in the adult (30.53 ± 0.42), with the aged group displaying the lowest mean (11.80 ± 0.27) SCN. Spearman's rho correlation coefficients demonstrated a strong relationship between the SCN and SEH in the pubertal (ρ=0.915; P < 0.001), adult (ρ=0.878; P < 0.001), and aged (ρ=0.858; P < 0.001) groups, while a significant moderate correlation was observed in the pre-pubertal (ρ=0.606; P < 0.001) group. There were significant moderate correlations between the SCN and STD in the pre-pubertal (ρ=0.445; P < 0.001), pubertal (ρ=0.653; P < 0.001), adult (ρ=0.440; P < 0.001), and aged (ρ=0.514; P < 0.001) groups. Furthermore, significant moderate correlations were estimated between the SCN and AST in the pre-pubertal (ρ=0.453; P < 0.001), pubertal (ρ=0.661; P < 0.001), adult (ρ=0.393; P = 0.001), and aged (ρ=0.498; P < 0.001) groups. This study provides baseline data on the morphology and development of the Sertoli cell, as well as testicular morphometry in avian species during the pre-pubertal, pubertal, adult, and aged stages using the Japanese quail as a model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reneilwe A Molele
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa.
| | - Mohamed A A Mahdy
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523, Egypt
| | - Musa Zakariah
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa; Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, PMB 1069 University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | - Mohammed I A Ibrahim
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa; Department of Basic Science, University of West Kordofan, West Kordofan State, Sudan
| | - Geoffrey T Fosgate
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
| | - Geoffrey Brown
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
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17
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Estermann MA, Hirst CE, Major AT, Smith CA. The homeobox gene TGIF1 is required for chicken ovarian cortical development and generation of the juxtacortical medulla. Development 2021; 148:dev199646. [PMID: 34387307 PMCID: PMC8406534 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
During early embryogenesis in amniotic vertebrates, the gonads differentiate into either ovaries or testes. The first cell lineage to differentiate gives rise to the supporting cells: Sertoli cells in males and pre-granulosa cells in females. These key cell types direct the differentiation of the other cell types in the gonad, including steroidogenic cells. The gonadal surface epithelium and the interstitial cell populations are less well studied, and little is known about their sexual differentiation programs. Here, we show the requirement of the homeobox transcription factor gene TGIF1 for ovarian development in the chicken embryo. TGIF1 is expressed in the two principal ovarian somatic cell populations: the cortex and the pre-granulosa cells of the medulla. TGIF1 expression is associated with an ovarian phenotype in estrogen-mediated sex reversal experiments. Targeted misexpression and gene knockdown indicate that TGIF1 is required, but not sufficient, for proper ovarian cortex formation. In addition, TGIF1 is identified as the first known regulator of juxtacortical medulla development. These findings provide new insights into chicken ovarian differentiation and development, specifically cortical and juxtacortical medulla formation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Craig Allen Smith
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton VIC 3800, Australia
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18
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Shen YC, Shami AN, Moritz L, Larose H, Manske GL, Ma Q, Zheng X, Sukhwani M, Czerwinski M, Sultan C, Chen H, Gurczynski SJ, Spence JR, Orwig KE, Tallquist M, Li JZ, Hammoud SS. TCF21 + mesenchymal cells contribute to testis somatic cell development, homeostasis, and regeneration in mice. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3876. [PMID: 34162856 PMCID: PMC8222243 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24130-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular development and function rely on interactions between somatic cells and the germline, but similar to other organs, regenerative capacity declines in aging and disease. Whether the adult testis maintains a reserve progenitor population remains uncertain. Here, we characterize a recently identified mouse testis interstitial population expressing the transcription factor Tcf21. We found that TCF21lin cells are bipotential somatic progenitors present in fetal testis and ovary, maintain adult testis homeostasis during aging, and act as potential reserve somatic progenitors following injury. In vitro, TCF21lin cells are multipotent mesenchymal progenitors which form multiple somatic lineages including Leydig and myoid cells. Additionally, TCF21+ cells resemble resident fibroblast populations reported in other organs having roles in tissue homeostasis, fibrosis, and regeneration. Our findings reveal that the testis, like other organs, maintains multipotent mesenchymal progenitors that can be potentially leveraged in development of future therapies for hypoandrogenism and/or infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chi Shen
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Lindsay Moritz
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Hailey Larose
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gabriel L Manske
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Qianyi Ma
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Xianing Zheng
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Meena Sukhwani
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Integrative Systems Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michael Czerwinski
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Caleb Sultan
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Haolin Chen
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, John Hopkins, USA
| | | | - Jason R Spence
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Integrative Systems Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michelle Tallquist
- University of Hawaii, Center for Cardiovascular Research, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Jun Z Li
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Saher Sue Hammoud
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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Knockout of the HMG domain of the porcine SRY gene causes sex reversal in gene-edited pigs. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2008743118. [PMID: 33443157 PMCID: PMC7812820 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2008743118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The present work characterizes the porcine sex-determining region on the Y chromosome (SRY) gene and demonstrates its pivotal role in sex determination. We provide evidence that genetically male pigs with a knockout of the SRY gene undergo sex reversal of the external and internal genitalia. This discovery of SRY as the main switch for sex determination in pigs may provide an alternative for surgical castration in pig production, preventing boar taint. As the pig shares many genetic, physiological, and anatomical similarities with humans, it also provides a suitable large animal model for human sex reversal syndromes, allowing for the development of new interventions for human sex disorders. The sex-determining region on the Y chromosome (SRY) is thought to be the central genetic element of male sex development in mammals. Pathogenic modifications within the SRY gene are associated with a male-to-female sex reversal syndrome in humans and other mammalian species, including rabbits and mice. However, the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. To understand the biological function of the SRY gene, a site-directed mutational analysis is required to investigate associated phenotypic changes at the molecular, cellular, and morphological level. Here, we successfully generated a knockout of the porcine SRY gene by microinjection of two CRISPR-Cas ribonucleoproteins, targeting the centrally located “high mobility group” (HMG), followed by a frameshift mutation of the downstream SRY sequence. This resulted in the development of genetically male (XY) pigs with complete external and internal female genitalia, which, however, were significantly smaller than in 9-mo-old age-matched control females. Quantitative digital PCR analysis revealed a duplication of the SRY locus in Landrace pigs similar to the known palindromic duplication in Duroc breeds. Our study demonstrates the central role of the HMG domain in the SRY gene in male porcine sex determination. This proof-of-principle study could assist in solving the problem of sex preference in agriculture to improve animal welfare. Moreover, it establishes a large animal model that is more comparable to humans with regard to genetics, physiology, and anatomy, which is pivotal for longitudinal studies to unravel mammalian sex determination and relevant for the development of new interventions for human sex development disorders.
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Abstract
Organoids are 3-dimensional (3D) structures grown in vitro that emulate the cytoarchitecture and functions of true organs. Therefore, testicular organoids arise as an important model for research on male reproductive biology. These organoids can be generated from different sources of testicular cells, but most studies to date have used immature primary cells for this purpose. The complexity of the mammalian testicular cytoarchitecture and regulation poses a challenge for working with testicular organoids, because, ideally, these 3D models should mimic the organization observed in vivo. In this review, we explore the characteristics of the most important cell types present in the testicular organoid models reported to date and discuss how different factors influence the regulation of these cells inside the organoids and their outcomes. Factors such as the developmental or maturational stage of the Sertoli cells, for example, influence organoid generation and structure, which affect the use of these 3D models for research. Spermatogonial stem cells have been a focus recently, especially in regard to male fertility preservation. The regulation of the spermatogonial stem cell niche inside testicular organoids is discussed in the present review, as this research area may be positively affected by recent progress in organoid generation and tissue engineering. Therefore, the testicular organoid approach is a very promising model for male reproductive biology research, but more studies and improvements are necessary to achieve its full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia de Lima e Martins Lara
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sadman Sakib
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ina Dobrinski
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Correspondence: Ina Dobrinski, DrMedVet, MVSc, PhD, Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 404 HMRB, 3300 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada.
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21
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Roth LM, Cheng L. Mixed germ cell-sex cord stromal tumour of the testis and ovary: comparison and contrast. Pathology 2020; 53:166-169. [PMID: 33358757 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2020.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Mixed germ cell-sex cord stromal tumours (MGC-SCSTs) of the testis and ovary differ significantly in their histological appearance, clinical behaviour, and molecular genetics. Until recently, the germ cells of testicular MGC-SCST were considered to be invariably histologically bland, whereas those from neoplasms that arise in the ovary have histological features characteristic of premalignancy. However, a recent histological and molecular genetic study demonstrated histological abnormalities and multiple chromosomal losses and gains in a small subset of testicular cases, thus providing the first evidence that testicular MGC-SCSTs can exceptionally show histological and molecular abnormalities. All cases of testicular MGC-SCST reported to date have been clinically benign, whereas ovarian examples are sometimes the precursor of a malignant germ cell neoplasm that can be clinically aggressive. Both genetic and epigenetic influences likely account for dissimilarities in these uncommon gonadal neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence M Roth
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| | - Liang Cheng
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Department of Urology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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22
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Yildirim E, Yaba A. Determination of c-Abl tyrosine kinase and mTERT catalytic subunit of telomerase expression level during prenatal-postnatal mouse ovary-testis development. Reprod Biol 2020; 20:555-567. [PMID: 33191142 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2020.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Expression levels of genes involved in the development of germ cells vary throughout the process from bipotential gonadal period to adult gonadal formation. In mice, developments of female and male reproductive system are regulated by germ cell-specific factors and hormones, and determinative days in this regulation are very important. c-Abl is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase with cellular functions including cell proliferation, growth and development. mTERT is involved in maintaining telomerase activity and proliferation of surviving cells. We suggested that c-Abl and mTERT might be important for the healthy development of prenatal and postnatal mouse ovary and testis. We aim to demonstrate localization and expressions of c-Abl and mTERT in crucial days of ovary and testis development in prenatal and postnatal period in mouse by immunofluorescence staining and qRT-PCR, respectively. The importance of c-Abl and mTERT expressions during the healthy gonadal development is indicated in the prenatal and postnatal gonadal development. Also, protein expression levels were detected by Western Blot in only postnatal ovary and testis. Determining the functions of the c-Abl and mTERT throughout the process will be important in terms of understanding the infertility cases in the female and male with future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ecem Yildirim
- Yeditepe University School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, 34755, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aylin Yaba
- Yeditepe University School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, 34755, Istanbul, Turkey.
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23
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Stewart MK, Mattiske DM, Pask AJ. Exogenous Oestrogen Impacts Cell Fate Decision in the Developing Gonads: A Potential Cause of Declining Human Reproductive Health. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8377. [PMID: 33171657 PMCID: PMC7664701 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing incidence of testicular dysgenesis syndrome-related conditions and overall decline in human fertility has been linked to the prevalence of oestrogenic endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the environment. Ectopic activation of oestrogen signalling by EDCs in the gonad can impact testis and ovary function and development. Oestrogen is the critical driver of ovarian differentiation in non-mammalian vertebrates, and in its absence a testis will form. In contrast, oestrogen is not required for mammalian ovarian differentiation, but it is essential for its maintenance, illustrating it is necessary for reinforcing ovarian fate. Interestingly, exposure of the bi-potential gonad to exogenous oestrogen can cause XY sex reversal in marsupials and this is mediated by the cytoplasmic retention of the testis-determining factor SOX9 (sex-determining region Y box transcription factor 9). Oestrogen can similarly suppress SOX9 and activate ovarian genes in both humans and mice, demonstrating it plays an essential role in all mammals in mediating gonad somatic cell fate. Here, we review the molecular control of gonad differentiation and explore the mechanisms through which exogenous oestrogen can influence somatic cell fate to disrupt gonad development and function. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for defining the effects of oestrogenic EDCs on the developing gonads and ultimately their impacts on human reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie K. Stewart
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; (D.M.M.); (A.J.P.)
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Stewart MK, Mattiske DM, Pask AJ. Estrogen suppresses SOX9 and activates markers of female development in a human testis-derived cell line. BMC Mol Cell Biol 2020; 21:66. [PMID: 32933467 PMCID: PMC7493336 DOI: 10.1186/s12860-020-00307-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The increasing incidence of reproductive disorders in humans has been attributed to in utero exposure to estrogenic endocrine disruptors. In particular, exposure of the developing testis to exogenous estrogen can negatively impact male reproductive health. To determine how estrogens impact human gonad function, we treated the human testis-derived cell line NT2/D1 with estrogen and examined its impact on SOX9 and the expression of key markers of granulosa (ovarian) and Sertoli (testicular) cell development. Results Estrogen successfully activated its cognate receptor (estrogen receptor alpha; ESR1) in NT2/D1 cells. We observed a significant increase in cytoplasmic SOX9 following estrogen treatment. After 48 h of estrogen exposure, mRNA levels of the key Sertoli cell genes SOX9, SRY, AMH, FGF9 and PTGDS were significantly reduced. This was followed by a significant increase in mRNA levels for the key granulosa cell genes FOXL2 and WNT4 after 96 h of estrogen exposure. Conclusions These results are consistent with estrogen's effects on marsupial gonads and show that estrogen has a highly conserved impact on gonadal cell fate decisions that has existed in mammals for over 160 million years. This effect of estrogen presents as a potential mechanism contributing to the significant decrease in male fertility and reproductive health reported over recent decades. Given our widespread exposure to estrogenic endocrine disruptors, their effects on SOX9 and Sertoli cell determination could have considerable impact on the adult testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie K Stewart
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Deidre M Mattiske
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Andrew J Pask
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia.
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25
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Proteome landscape and spatial map of mouse primordial germ cells. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2020; 64:966-981. [PMID: 32860578 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-020-1762-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are precursors of both male and female gametes as fundamental materials for organism development. The transcriptome, methylome, and chromatin accessibility profiles of PGCs in both mice and humans have been recently reported. However, little is known about the characteristics of PGCs at the protein levels, which directly exert cellular functions. Here, we construct landscapes of both proteome and 3D spatial distribution of mouse PGCs at E11.5, E13.5 and E16.5 days, the three critical developmental windows for PGCs' sex differentiation, female meiosis initiation and male mitotic arrest. In each developmental stage of PGCs, nearly 2,000-3,000 proteins are identified, among which specific functional pathways such as oxidative phosphorylation, DNA damage repair, and meiotic cell cycle are involved for different events during PGCs development. Interestingly, by 3D modeling we find that PGCs spatially cluster into around 1,300 nests in genital ridge at E11.5 and the nest number is not increased by the exponential proliferation of PGCs. Comparative analysis of our proteomic data with published transcriptomic data does not show a close correlation, meaning that the practically executive factors are beyond the transcriptome. Thus, our work offers a valuable resource for the systematic investigations of PGC development at protein level and spatial map.
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26
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Martinez-Bengochea A, Doretto L, Rosa IF, Oliveira MA, Silva C, Silva DMZA, Santos GR, Santos JSF, Avelar MM, Silva LV, Lucianelli-Junior D, Souza ERB, Silva RC, Stewart AB, Nakaghi LSO, Valentin FN, Nóbrega RH. Effects of 17β-estradiol on early gonadal development and expression of genes implicated in sexual differentiation of a South American teleost, Astyanax altiparanae. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 248-249:110467. [PMID: 32628996 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2020.110467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Gonadal sex differentiation in teleost fish shows greater plasticity as compared to other vertebrates, as it can be influenced by a variety of factors such as exogenous sex steroids. Exogenous estrogens, such as 17β-estradiol (E2), can induce feminization when administered during early embryonic development. However, the mechanisms underlying the E2-induced feminization are not fully understood, especially in Neotropical species. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of E2 administration on the phenotypic sex characteristics, histological assessment of the gonads, and the expression of selected genes in Astyanax altiparanae exposed to dietary E2 prior to gonadal differentiation. At 4 days post-hatch (dph), groups of 30-40 undifferentiated larvae were fed with a diet containing varying amounts of E2 for 28 days, and fish were sampled at 90 dph. Previous studies revealed that ovary formation in A. altiparanae occurred at 58 dph, whereas the first sign of testis formation was found at 73 dph. In relation to the control, E2 exposure increased the proportion of phenotypic females in 120% and 148.4% for 4 and 6 mg E2/Kg, respectively. However, histological analysis revealed that treatments did not affect gonadal sex ratio between males and females, but induced intersex (testis-ova) in the group treated with 6 mg E2/Kg food. Treatment with E2 also altered gonadal transcript levels of a selected number of genes implicated in sexual differentiation. Males overexpressed dmrt1, sox9 and amh following E2 treatment as compared to control. Females showed increased mRNA levels of dmrt1 and sox9, which might be related to the down-regulation of cyp19a1a after E2 exposure. In summary, E2 exposure during early gonadal development affected male secondary characteristics without changing the gonadal sex ratio, and altered expression of genes implicated in sexual differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Martinez-Bengochea
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - L Doretto
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - I F Rosa
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M A Oliveira
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - C Silva
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - D M Z A Silva
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G R Santos
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil; Aquaculture Center (CAUNESP), São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - J S F Santos
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil; Aquaculture Center (CAUNESP), São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M M Avelar
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil; Aquaculture Center (CAUNESP), São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - L V Silva
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil; Aquaculture Center (CAUNESP), São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - D Lucianelli-Junior
- Laboratório de Morfofisiologia da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Pará, UFPA, Altamira, Pará, Brazil
| | - E R B Souza
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil; Aquaculture Center (CAUNESP), São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - R C Silva
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil; Aquaculture Center (CAUNESP), São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A B Stewart
- Department of Orthopaedics Musculoskeletal Research, West Virginia University,USA
| | - L S O Nakaghi
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil; Aquaculture Center (CAUNESP), São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - F N Valentin
- Laboratório de Morfofisiologia da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Pará, UFPA, Altamira, Pará, Brazil.
| | - R H Nóbrega
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Gonadal development and sex determination in mouse. Reprod Biol 2020; 20:115-126. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2020.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Wang N, Zhu W, Han B, Wang H, Zhu H, Chen Y, Chen Y, Liu J, Liu Y, Zhao S, Song H, Qiao J. Inherited Missense Mutation Occurring in Arginine76 of the SRY Gene Does Not Account for Familial 46, XY Sex Reversal. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5788229. [PMID: 32140723 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND SRY (sex determining region of Y) is one of the important genes involved in the process of human sex determination. The disturbed sex determination caused by an SRY mutation accounts for 10% to 15% of cases with 46, XY sex reversal. Recently, 3 distal enhancers were identified upstream of the SOX9 gene. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to investigate the molecular etiology of 46, XY sex reversal in 3 familial patients and a sporadic patient. DESIGN Next-generation sequencing was used to reveal the genotype and inherited pattern. Copy number variations and single nucleotide polymorphism haplotyping were analyzed to observe the alteration of enhancers of SOX9. Transcriptional activity of SRY mutation were assessed by a dual luciferase reporting system, and nuclear translocation was observed by confocal microscopy. RESULTS Two novel SRY gene mutations, p.Arg76Leu and p.Glu89flx15, were identified. In the pedigree with multiple patients, p.Arg76Leu mutation in SRY and p.Gly212Ser mutation in NR5A1 were identified in the proband. The heterozygous deletion far upstream of the SOX9 gene in chromosome 17 was identified in the 3 patients in this family, containing the distal enhancer eSR-A of SOX9 but not eSR-B and eALDI. The frameshift mutation p.Glu89flx15 was revealed to inhibit the transcriptional activity of the target gene, whereas the missense mutation p.Arg76Leu barely showed an effect. CONCLUSION In contrast to sporadic cases, inherited single nucleotide variations of SRY are not the main cause of the severe phenotype of 46, XY sex reversal, and the enhancers of SOX9 should be investigated carefully in such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjiao Zhu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Han
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Zhu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingchao Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of obstetrics and gynecology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianhua Liu
- Department of obstetrics and gynecology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuangxia Zhao
- Research Centre for Clinical Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huaidong Song
- Research Centre for Clinical Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Spade DJ, Hall SJ, Wortzel JD, Reyes G, Boekelheide K. All-trans Retinoic Acid Disrupts Development in Ex Vivo Cultured Fetal Rat Testes. II: Modulation of Mono-(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate Toxicity. Toxicol Sci 2020; 168:149-159. [PMID: 30476341 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans are universally exposed to low levels of phthalate esters (phthalates), which are used to plasticize polyvinyl chloride. Phthalates exert adverse effects on the development of seminiferous cords in the fetal testis through unknown toxicity pathways. To investigate the hypothesis that phthalates alter seminiferous cord development by disrupting retinoic acid (RA) signaling in the fetal testis, gestational day 15 fetal rat testes were exposed for 1-3 days to 10-6 M all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) alone or in combination with 10-6-10-4 M mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) in ex vivo culture. As previously reported, exogenous ATRA reduced seminiferous cord number. This effect was attenuated in a concentration-dependent fashion by MEHP co-exposure. ATRA and MEHP-exposed testes were depleted of DDX4-positive germ cells but not Sertoli cells. MEHP alone enhanced the expression of the RA receptor target Rbp1 and the ovary development-associated genes Wnt4 and Nr0b1, and suppressed expression of the Leydig cell marker, Star, and the germ cell markers, Ddx4 and Pou5f1. In co-exposures, MEHP predominantly enhanced the gene expression effects of ATRA, but the Wnt4 and Nr0b1 concentration-responses were nonlinear. Similarly, ATRA increased the number of cells expressing the granulosa cell marker FOXL2 in testis cultures, but this induction was attenuated by addition of MEHP. These results indicate that MEHP can both enhance and inhibit actions of ATRA during fetal testis development and provide evidence that RA signaling is a target for phthalate toxicity in the fetal testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Spade
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Susan J Hall
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Jeremy D Wortzel
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Gerardo Reyes
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912.,Division of Natural Sciences, College of Mount Saint Vincent, Riverdale, New York 10471
| | - Kim Boekelheide
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
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Adaptation of Human Testicular Niche Cells for Pluripotent Stem Cell and Testis Development Research. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2020; 17:223-235. [PMID: 32114677 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-020-00240-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human testicular cells are greatly valuable to the research community as tools for studying testicular physiology and the effects of environmental pollutants. Because adult testicular cells have a limited self-organization capacity and life span, we investigated whether human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) can be used together with testicular cells to move a step closer toward making an optimal model of the human testis. METHODS We used in vitro culture of donor testicular cells under serum-containing and chemically defined conditions. CRISPR-Cas9 technology was applied to introduce fluorescent transgenes (mCherry2 and EGFP) into hPSCs and testicular cells. hPSC-derived spheroids were co-cultured with human testicular cells in mini-spin bioreactors. RESULTS Traditional cell culture conditions used for maintenance of testicular somatic cells generally contain serum and pose limitations on evaluating the role of active molecules on cell functions. We established that chemically defined culture conditions can be used to maintain testicular cells without the loss of proliferative activity. These cultures demonstrate marker expression which is characteristic of common testicular cell types: Sertoli, Leydig, endothelial, myoid cells, and macrophages. In order to model testicular physiology, it is important to be able to perform live cell microscopy. Thus, we generated fluorescent protein-expressing human testicular cells and hPSCs and demonstrated that these cell types can be successfully co-cultured for prolonged periods of time in a three-dimensional microenvironment. CONCLUSION Our research extends the possible applications of human testis-derived somatic cells and shows that they can be used together with hPSCs for further studies of human male reproductive biology.
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31
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Cerván-Martín M, Castilla JA, Palomino-Morales RJ, Carmona FD. Genetic Landscape of Nonobstructive Azoospermia and New Perspectives for the Clinic. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9020300. [PMID: 31973052 PMCID: PMC7074441 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9020300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) represents the most severe expression of male infertility, involving around 1% of the male population and 10% of infertile men. This condition is characterised by the inability of the testis to produce sperm cells, and it is considered to have an important genetic component. During the last two decades, different genetic anomalies, including microdeletions of the Y chromosome, karyotype defects, and missense mutations in genes involved in the reproductive function, have been described as the primary cause of NOA in many infertile men. However, these alterations only explain around 25% of azoospermic cases, with the remaining patients showing an idiopathic origin. Recent studies clearly suggest that the so-called idiopathic NOA has a complex aetiology with a polygenic inheritance, which may alter the spermatogenic process. Although we are far from a complete understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying NOA, the use of the new technologies for genetic analysis has enabled a considerable increase in knowledge during the last years. In this review, we will provide a comprehensive and updated overview of the genetic basis of NOA, with a special focus on the possible application of the recent insights in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Cerván-Martín
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad de Granada, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Parque Tecnológico Ciencias de la Salud, Av. del Conocimiento, s/n, 18016 Granada, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Av. de Madrid, 15, Pabellón de Consultas Externas 2, 2ª Planta, 18012 Granada, Spain; (J.A.C.); (R.J.P.-M.)
| | - José A. Castilla
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Av. de Madrid, 15, Pabellón de Consultas Externas 2, 2ª Planta, 18012 Granada, Spain; (J.A.C.); (R.J.P.-M.)
- Unidad de Reproducción, UGC Obstetricia y Ginecología, HU Virgen de las Nieves, Av. de las Fuerzas Armadas 2, 18014 Granada, Spain
- CEIFER Biobanco—NextClinics, Calle Maestro Bretón 1, 18004 Granada, Spain
| | - Rogelio J. Palomino-Morales
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Av. de Madrid, 15, Pabellón de Consultas Externas 2, 2ª Planta, 18012 Granada, Spain; (J.A.C.); (R.J.P.-M.)
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular I, Universidad de Granada, Facultad de Ciencias, Av. de Fuente Nueva s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - F. David Carmona
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad de Granada, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Parque Tecnológico Ciencias de la Salud, Av. del Conocimiento, s/n, 18016 Granada, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Av. de Madrid, 15, Pabellón de Consultas Externas 2, 2ª Planta, 18012 Granada, Spain; (J.A.C.); (R.J.P.-M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-958-241-000 (ext 20170)
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García-Acero M, Moreno O, Suárez F, Rojas A. Disorders of Sexual Development: Current Status and Progress in the Diagnostic Approach. Curr Urol 2020; 13:169-178. [PMID: 31998049 DOI: 10.1159/000499274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Disorders of sexual development (DSD) are conditions with an atypical chromosomal, gonadal or phenotypic sex, which leads to differences in the development of the urogenital tract and different clinical phenotypes. Some genes have been implicated in the sex development during gonadal and functional differentiation where the maintenance of the somatic sex of the gonad as either male or female is achieved by suppression of the alternate route. The diagnosis of DSD requires a structured approach, involving a multidisciplinary team and different molecular techniques. We discuss the dimorphic genes and the specific pathways involved in gonadal differentiation, as well as new techniques for genetic analysis and their diagnostic value including epigenetic mechanisms, expanding the evidence in the diagnostic approach of individuals with DSD to increase knowledge of the etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary García-Acero
- Human Genetic Institute, Medicine Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Olga Moreno
- Human Genetic Institute, Medicine Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Fernando Suárez
- Human Genetic Institute, Medicine Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Adriana Rojas
- Human Genetic Institute, Medicine Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
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DDB1 Regulates Sertoli Cell Proliferation and Testis Cord Remodeling by TGFβ Pathway. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10120974. [PMID: 31779270 PMCID: PMC6947845 DOI: 10.3390/genes10120974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Testis cords are the embryonic precursors of the seminiferous tubules. Development of testis cords is a key event during embryonic testicular morphogenesis and is regulated by multiple signaling molecules produced by Sertoli cells. However, the exact nature and the cascade of molecular events underlying testis cord development remain to be uncovered. In the current study, we explored the role of DNA damage binding protein 1 (DDB1) in Sertoli cells during mouse testis cord development. The genetic ablation of Ddb1 specifically in Sertoli cells resulted in the compromised Sertoli cell proliferation and disruption of testis cord remodeling in neonatal mice. This testicular dysgenesis persisted through adulthood, resulting in smaller testis and low sperm production. Mechanistically, we observed that the DDB1 degradation can stabilize SET domain-containing lysine methyltransferase 8 (SET8), which subsequently decreases the phosphorylation of SMAD2, an essential intracellular component of transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling. Taken together, our results suggest an essential role of Ddb1 in Sertoli cell proliferation and normal remodeling of testis cords via TGFβ pathway. To our knowledge, this is the first upstream regulators of TGFβ pathway in Sertoli cells, and therefore it furthers our understanding of testis cord development.
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Mariniello K, Ruiz-Babot G, McGaugh EC, Nicholson JG, Gualtieri A, Gaston-Massuet C, Nostro MC, Guasti L. Stem Cells, Self-Renewal, and Lineage Commitment in the Endocrine System. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:772. [PMID: 31781041 PMCID: PMC6856655 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocrine system coordinates a wide array of body functions mainly through secretion of hormones and their actions on target tissues. Over the last decades, a collective effort between developmental biologists, geneticists, and stem cell biologists has generated a wealth of knowledge related to the contribution of stem/progenitor cells to both organogenesis and self-renewal of endocrine organs. This review provides an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of the role of tissue stem cells in the development and self-renewal of endocrine organs. Pathways governing crucial steps in both development and stemness maintenance, and that are known to be frequently altered in a wide array of endocrine disorders, including cancer, are also described. Crucially, this plethora of information is being channeled into the development of potential new cell-based treatment modalities for endocrine-related illnesses, some of which have made it through clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Mariniello
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gerard Ruiz-Babot
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Emily C. McGaugh
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - James G. Nicholson
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Angelica Gualtieri
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Carles Gaston-Massuet
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Cristina Nostro
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Leonardo Guasti
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Sánchez L, Chaouiya C. Logical modelling uncovers developmental constraints for primary sex determination of chicken gonads. J R Soc Interface 2019; 15:rsif.2018.0165. [PMID: 29792308 PMCID: PMC6000168 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2018.0165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the chicken, sex determination relies on a ZZ (male)/ZW (female) chromosomal system, but underlying mechanisms are still not fully understood. The Z-dosage and the dominant W-chromosome hypotheses have been proposed to underlie primary sex determination. We present a modelling approach, which assembles the current knowledge and permits exploration of the regulation of this process in chickens. Relying on published experimental data, we assembled a gene network, which led to a logical model that integrates both the Z-dosage and dominant W hypotheses. This model showed that the sexual fate of chicken gonads results from the resolution of the mutual inhibition between DMRT1 and FOXL2, where the initial amount of DMRT1 product determines the development of the gonads. In this respect, at the initiation step, a W-factor would function as a secondary device, by reducing the amount of DMRT1 in ZW gonads when the sexual fate of the gonad is settled, that is when the SOX9 functional level is established. Developmental constraints that are instrumental in this resolution were identified. These constraints establish qualitative restrictions regarding the relative transcription rates of the genes DMRT1, FOXL2 and HEMGN. Our model further clarified the role of OESTROGEN in maintaining FOXL2 function during ovary development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Sánchez
- Dpto. Biología Celular y Molecular, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (C. S. I. C.), Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Claudine Chaouiya
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência - IGC, Rua da Quinta Grande, 6, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal
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Wexler J, Delaney EK, Belles X, Schal C, Wada-Katsumata A, Amicucci MJ, Kopp A. Hemimetabolous insects elucidate the origin of sexual development via alternative splicing. eLife 2019; 8:e47490. [PMID: 31478483 PMCID: PMC6721801 DOI: 10.7554/elife.47490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Insects are the only known animals in which sexual differentiation is controlled by sex-specific splicing. The doublesex transcription factor produces distinct male and female isoforms, which are both essential for sex-specific development. dsx splicing depends on transformer, which is also alternatively spliced such that functional Tra is only present in females. This pathway has evolved from an ancestral mechanism where dsx was independent of tra and expressed and required only in males. To reconstruct this transition, we examined three basal, hemimetabolous insect orders: Hemiptera, Phthiraptera, and Blattodea. We show that tra and dsx have distinct functions in these insects, reflecting different stages in the changeover from a transcription-based to a splicing-based mode of sexual differentiation. We propose that the canonical insect tra-dsx pathway evolved via merger between expanding dsx function (from males to both sexes) and narrowing tra function (from a general splicing factor to dedicated regulator of dsx).
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Wexler
- Department of Evolution and EcologyUniversity of California, DavisDavisUnited States
| | - Emily Kay Delaney
- Department of Evolution and EcologyUniversity of California, DavisDavisUnited States
| | - Xavier Belles
- Institut de Biologia EvolutivaConsejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas, Universitat Pompeu FabraBarcelonaSpain
| | - Coby Schal
- Department of Entomology and Plant PathologyNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighUnited States
| | - Ayako Wada-Katsumata
- Department of Entomology and Plant PathologyNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighUnited States
| | - Matthew J Amicucci
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of California, DavisDavisUnited States
| | - Artyom Kopp
- Department of Evolution and EcologyUniversity of California, DavisDavisUnited States
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Ezejiofor AN, Orisakwe OE. The protective effect of Costus afer Ker Gawl aqueous leaf extract on lead-induced reproductive changes in male albino Wistar rats. JBRA Assist Reprod 2019; 23:215-224. [PMID: 30875184 PMCID: PMC6724387 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20190019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Lead is a multiple organ toxicant and an oxidative-stress inducer. The effect
of Costus afer on metal- induced male reprotoxicity has not
been previously carried out, hence this study. The present study
investigates the protective effect of Costus afer aqueous
leave extract on lead- induced reproductive damages in male albino Wistar
rats. Methods: Adult male albino Wistar rats were weighed and separated into five groups of
five rats each. Groups 1 & 2 served as normal and toxic controls
receiving deionized and leaded
(CH3COO)2Pb.3H2O and water
respectively. Groups 3, 4 and 5 were given 750, 1500 and 2250mg/kg of
Costus afer orally, respectively while receiving
Pb2+ water ad libitum for 28 days. Results: The reproductive and antioxidant parameters obtained from the result served
as scientific evidence in the study. The result showed non-significant
changes in the absolute and relative weights of epididymis and testes in the
Pb Group versus the control. Significant increases were
recorded in the sperm analysis, blood lead (7.9±1.02;
1.1±0.01) level (BLL), luteinizing hormone (LH)
(8.5±1.4:5.5±0.4), and a decrease in follicle stimulating
hormone (FSH) (4.5±2.6:6.5±1.65), with non-significant changes
in testosterone (TET) (1.3±0.00:1.6±0.2) in the Pb group
compared to the control. Conclusion: The treatment with Costus afer exhibited dose-dependent
significant changes in testicular oxidative stress, hormonal, sperm analysis
and histopathological changes induced by lead. Aqueous leaves extract of
Costus afer may be protective against lead induced
testicular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Orish Ebere Orisakwe
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
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Zhang W, Shi J, Zhang C, Jiang X, Wang J, Wang W, Wang D, Ni J, Chen L, Lu W, Xiao Y, Ye W, Dong Z. Identification of gene variants in 130 Han Chinese patients with hypospadias by targeted next-generation sequencing. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2019; 7:e827. [PMID: 31219235 PMCID: PMC6687654 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypospadias is a common congenital malformation of male external genitalia, which mainly manifests as an abnormal urethral opening on the ventral side of the penis. The etiology and clinical phenotype of hypospadias is highly heterogeneous, and its clinical diagnosis is challenging. Currently, over 70% of patients have an unknown etiology. Here, we performed a targeted analysis of gene mutations in 130 patients with hypospadias of unknown etiology to find the precise genetic cause. Methods We developed a targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) panel, encompassing the exon coding regions of 105 genes involved in external genitalia and urogenital tract development and performed sequencing analysis on 130 children with hypospadias of unknown etiology. Results In total, 25 patients with hypospadias (19.2%) were found to have 20 mutations among the nine genes involved in external genitalia and urogenital tract development, including 16 reported and four novel mutation sites. Twenty‐two patients (16.9%) had diagnostic variants. Multiple genetic mutations were identified in three of the 25 patients. Hypospadias combined with micropenis was the most common phenotype (68%) in 25 patients. Conclusions Higher frequency mutations were identified in SRD5A2 (52%) and AR (24%) in our patient cohort. Middle or posterior hypospadias with micropenis may be significant indicators of genetic variations. Polygenic inheritance may be a rare genetic cause of hypospadias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanyu Zhang
- Department of Paediatrics, Ruijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Jinxiu Shi
- Department of Genetics, Shanghai‐MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease GenomicsChinese National Human Genome Center and Shanghai Industrial Technology Institute (SITI)ShanghaiChina
| | - Chenhui Zhang
- Department of Genetics, Shanghai‐MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease GenomicsChinese National Human Genome Center and Shanghai Industrial Technology Institute (SITI)ShanghaiChina
| | - Xincheng Jiang
- Department of Urology, Ruijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Junqi Wang
- Department of Paediatrics, Ruijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Paediatrics, Ruijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Defen Wang
- Department of Paediatrics, Ruijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Jihong Ni
- Department of Paediatrics, Ruijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Lifen Chen
- Department of Paediatrics, Ruijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Wenli Lu
- Department of Paediatrics, Ruijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Yuan Xiao
- Department of Paediatrics, Ruijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Weijing Ye
- Department of Urology, Ruijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Zhiya Dong
- Department of Paediatrics, Ruijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
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Li X, Mo J, Zhu Q, Ni C, Wang Y, Li H, Lin ZK, Ge RS. The structure-activity relationship (SAR) for phthalate-mediated developmental and reproductive toxicity in males. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 223:504-513. [PMID: 30784757 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.02.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Testicular dysgenesis syndrome includes the hypospadias, cryptorchidism and abnormal fetal testis in male neonate. This is possibly caused by the environmental phthalates, which down-regulate the expression of androgen synthetic genes and Insl3 or directly inhibits steroidogenic enzymes. There are distinct structure-activity relationships (SARs) for phthalate-mediated developmental and reproductive toxicity. Here, we review the SAR for phthalate-mediated testicular dysgenesis syndrome. Of phthalates of straight side chains, C5-C6 ones are the most potent, C4 or C7 are moderate, C3 is weakest, and C1-2 or C8-13 are ineffective. The branching and unsaturation of side chains increases the toxicity. The cycling of side chains does not increase the toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoheng Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiaying Mo
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qiqi Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chaobo Ni
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huitao Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhen-Kun Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Shu Y, Zhang H, Cai Q, Tang D, Wang G, Liu T, Lv B, Wu H. Integrated mRNA and miRNA expression profile analyses reveal the potential roles of sex-biased miRNA-mRNA pairs in gonad tissues of the Chinese concave-eared torrent frog (Odorrana tormota). JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART B-MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2019; 332:69-80. [PMID: 30964604 DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.22851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The Chinese concave-eared torrent frog (Odorrana tormota) is typically sexually dimorphic. Females are significantly less common than males in the wild. Until now, the molecular mechanisms of reproduction and sex differentiation of frogs remain unclear. Here, we integrated mRNA and microRNA (miRNA) expression profiles to reveal the molecular mechanisms of reproduction and sex differentiation in O. tormota. We identified 234 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) and 18,551 differentially expressed transcripts. Of these, 12,053 mRNAs and 64 miRNAs were upregulated in testes, and 6,498 mRNAs and 170 miRNAs were upregulated in ovaries. Integrated analysis of the miRNA and mRNA expression profiles predicted 75,602 potential miRNA-mRNA interaction sites, with 42,065 negative miRNA-mRNA interactions. We found 36 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to reproduction and sex differentiation, of which 15 DEGs formed 92 negative miRNA-mRNA interactions with 34 known DEMs. Thus, miRNAs may play other important roles in O. tormota. Furthermore, Gene Ontology enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses showed reproductive-related processes, such as the gonadotropinreleasing hormone signaling pathway and ovarian steroidogenesis. Based on functional annotation and the literature, the retinoic acid signaling pathway, the SOX9-AMH pathway, and the process of spermatogenesis may be involved in the molecular mechanisms of reproduction and sex differentiation in O. tormota, and may be regulated by miRNAs. The miRNA-mRNA pairs described may provide further understanding of the regulatory mechanisms associated with reproduction and sex differentiation, and the molecular mechanism of reproduction in O. tormota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Shu
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Huijuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Qijia Cai
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dong Tang
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Ting Liu
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Bihua Lv
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hailong Wu
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
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Herpin A, Schmidt C, Kneitz S, Gobé C, Regensburger M, Le Cam A, Montfort J, Adolfi MC, Lillesaar C, Wilhelm D, Kraeussling M, Mourot B, Porcon B, Pannetier M, Pailhoux E, Ettwiller L, Dolle D, Guiguen Y, Schartl M. A novel evolutionary conserved mechanism of RNA stability regulates synexpression of primordial germ cell-specific genes prior to the sex-determination stage in medaka. PLoS Biol 2019; 17:e3000185. [PMID: 30947255 PMCID: PMC6448818 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Dmrt1 is a highly conserved transcription factor, which is critically involved in regulation of gonad development of vertebrates. In medaka, a duplicate of dmrt1-acting as master sex-determining gene-has a tightly timely and spatially controlled gonadal expression pattern. In addition to transcriptional regulation, a sequence motif in the 3' UTR (D3U-box) mediates transcript stability of dmrt1 mRNAs from medaka and other vertebrates. We show here that in medaka, two RNA-binding proteins with antagonizing properties target this D3U-box, promoting either RNA stabilization in germ cells or degradation in the soma. The D3U-box is also conserved in other germ-cell transcripts, making them responsive to the same RNA binding proteins. The evolutionary conservation of the D3U-box motif within dmrt1 genes of metazoans-together with preserved expression patterns of the targeting RNA binding proteins in subsets of germ cells-suggest that this new mechanism for controlling RNA stability is not restricted to fishes but might also apply to other vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaury Herpin
- INRA, UR1037 Fish Physiology and Genomics, Rennes, France
- University of Wuerzburg, Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, Wuerzburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Cornelia Schmidt
- University of Wuerzburg, Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Kneitz
- University of Wuerzburg, Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Clara Gobé
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | | | - Aurélie Le Cam
- INRA, UR1037 Fish Physiology and Genomics, Rennes, France
| | | | - Mateus C. Adolfi
- University of Wuerzburg, Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Christina Lillesaar
- University of Wuerzburg, Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Dagmar Wilhelm
- University of Melbourne, Department of Anatomy & Neuroscience, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Kraeussling
- University of Wuerzburg, Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Maëlle Pannetier
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Eric Pailhoux
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Laurence Ettwiller
- University of Heidelberg, Centre for Organismal Studies (COS), Department of Developmental Biology, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dirk Dolle
- University of Heidelberg, Centre for Organismal Studies (COS), Department of Developmental Biology, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Yann Guiguen
- INRA, UR1037 Fish Physiology and Genomics, Rennes, France
| | - Manfred Schartl
- University of Wuerzburg, Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, Wuerzburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University Hospital, Wuerzburg, Germany
- Hagler Institute for Advanced Study and Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
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Young J, Xu C, Papadakis GE, Acierno JS, Maione L, Hietamäki J, Raivio T, Pitteloud N. Clinical Management of Congenital Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. Endocr Rev 2019; 40:669-710. [PMID: 30698671 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The initiation and maintenance of reproductive capacity in humans is dependent on pulsatile secretion of the hypothalamic hormone GnRH. Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is a rare disorder that results from the failure of the normal episodic GnRH secretion, leading to delayed puberty and infertility. CHH can be associated with an absent sense of smell, also termed Kallmann syndrome, or with other anomalies. CHH is characterized by rich genetic heterogeneity, with mutations in >30 genes identified to date acting either alone or in combination. CHH can be challenging to diagnose, particularly in early adolescence where the clinical picture mirrors that of constitutional delay of growth and puberty. Timely diagnosis and treatment will induce puberty, leading to improved sexual, bone, metabolic, and psychological health. In most cases, patients require lifelong treatment, yet a notable portion of male patients (∼10% to 20%) exhibit a spontaneous recovery of their reproductive function. Finally, fertility can be induced with pulsatile GnRH treatment or gonadotropin regimens in most patients. In summary, this review is a comprehensive synthesis of the current literature available regarding the diagnosis, patient management, and genetic foundations of CHH relative to normal reproductive development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Young
- University of Paris-Sud, Paris-Sud Medical School, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.,Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hôpital, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.,INSERM Unité 1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Cheng Xu
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Georgios E Papadakis
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - James S Acierno
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Luigi Maione
- University of Paris-Sud, Paris-Sud Medical School, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.,Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hôpital, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.,INSERM Unité 1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Johanna Hietamäki
- Children's Hospital, Pediatric Research Center, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Translational Stem Cell Biology and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Taneli Raivio
- Children's Hospital, Pediatric Research Center, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Translational Stem Cell Biology and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Nelly Pitteloud
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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García-Acero M, Molina M, Moreno O, Ramirez A, Forero C, Céspedes C, Prieto JC, Pérez J, Suárez-Obando F, Rojas A. Gene dosage of DAX-1, determining in sexual differentiation: duplication of DAX-1 in two sisters with gonadal dysgenesis. Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:2971-2978. [PMID: 30879272 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-04758-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Two sisters phenotypically normal females, presenting with tumor abdominal mass with histopathological findings of teratoma and gonadoblastoma associated to 46,XY male-to-female sex reversal syndrome, secondary to a duplication in DAX-1, possibly inherited of maternal gonadal mosaicism. Copy number variation and functional effects of the duplication were done by MLPA multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification and real time PCR. DAX-1, also known as dosage sensitive sex reversal gene (DSS), is considered the most likely candidate gene involved in XY gonadal dysgenesis when overexpressed. The excess of DAX-1 gene disturbs testicular development by down regulation of SF-1, WT1, and SOX9. This is the first report of 46,XY sex reversal in two siblings who have a maternally inherited duplication of DAX-1 associated with reduced levels of expression of downstream genes as SOX9-SF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary García-Acero
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Cra 7 No. 40-62, Bogotá, 110231, Colombia
| | - Mónica Molina
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Cra 7 No. 40-62, Bogotá, 110231, Colombia
| | - Olga Moreno
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Cra 7 No. 40-62, Bogotá, 110231, Colombia
| | - Andrea Ramirez
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Cra 7 No. 40-62, Bogotá, 110231, Colombia
| | - Catalina Forero
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Camila Céspedes
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Juan Carlos Prieto
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Cra 7 No. 40-62, Bogotá, 110231, Colombia
| | - Jaime Pérez
- Department of Urology, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Fernando Suárez-Obando
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Cra 7 No. 40-62, Bogotá, 110231, Colombia.,Clinical Genetics Service, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Adriana Rojas
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Cra 7 No. 40-62, Bogotá, 110231, Colombia.
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44
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Cortes LR, Cisternas CD, Forger NG. Does Gender Leave an Epigenetic Imprint on the Brain? Front Neurosci 2019; 13:173. [PMID: 30872999 PMCID: PMC6400866 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The words “sex” and “gender” are often used interchangeably in common usage. In fact, the Merriam-Webster dictionary offers “sex” as the definition of gender. The authors of this review are neuroscientists, and the words “sex” and “gender” mean very different things to us: sex is based on biological factors such as sex chromosomes and gonads, whereas gender has a social component and involves differential expectations or treatment by conspecifics, based on an individual’s perceived sex. While we are accustomed to thinking about “sex” and differences between males and females in epigenetic marks in the brain, we are much less used to thinking about the biological implications of gender. Nonetheless, careful consideration of the field of epigenetics leads us to conclude that gender must also leave an epigenetic imprint on the brain. Indeed, it would be strange if this were not the case, because all environmental influences of any import can epigenetically change the brain. In the following pages, we explain why there is now sufficient evidence to suggest that an epigenetic imprint for gender is a logical conclusion. We define our terms for sex, gender, and epigenetics, and describe research demonstrating sex differences in epigenetic mechanisms in the brain which, to date, is mainly based on work in non-human animals. We then give several examples of how gender, rather than sex, may cause the brain epigenome to differ in males and females, and finally consider the myriad of ways that sex and gender interact to shape gene expression in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura R Cortes
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Carla D Cisternas
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Nancy G Forger
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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45
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Spade DJ, Dere E, Hall SJ, Schorl C, Freiman RN, Boekelheide K. All-Trans Retinoic Acid Disrupts Development in Ex Vivo Cultured Fetal Rat Testes. I: Altered Seminiferous Cord Maturation and Testicular Cell Fate. Toxicol Sci 2019; 167:546-558. [PMID: 30329139 PMCID: PMC6358251 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to excess retinoic acid (RA) disrupts the development of the mammalian testicular seminiferous cord. However, the molecular events surrounding RA-driven loss of cord structure have not previously been examined. To investigate the mechanisms associated with this adverse developmental effect, fetal rat testes were isolated on gestational day 15, after testis determination and the initiation of cord development, and cultured in media containing all-trans RA (ATRA; 10-8 to 10-6 M) or vehicle for 3 days. ATRA exposure resulted in a concentration-dependent decrease in the number of seminiferous cords per testis section and number of germ cells, assessed by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Following 1 day of culture, genome-wide expression profiling by microarray demonstrated that ATRA exposure altered biological processes related to retinoid metabolism and gonadal sex determination. Real-time RT-PCR analysis confirmed that ATRA enhanced the expression of the key ovarian development gene Wnt4 and the antitestis gene Nr0b1 in a concentration-dependent manner. After 3 days of culture, ATRA-treated testes contained both immunohistochemically DMRT1-positive and FOXL2-positive somatic cells, providing evidence of disrupted testicular cell fate maintenance following ATRA exposure. We conclude that exogenous RA disrupts seminiferous cord development in ex vivo cultured fetal rat testes, resulting in a reduction in seminiferous cord number, and interferes with maintenance of somatic cell fate by enhancing expression of factors that promote ovarian development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Spade
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Edward Dere
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
- Division of Urology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island 02903
| | - Susan J Hall
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Christoph Schorl
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Richard N Freiman
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Kim Boekelheide
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
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46
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Larose H, Shami AN, Abbott H, Manske G, Lei L, Hammoud SS. Gametogenesis: A journey from inception to conception. Curr Top Dev Biol 2019; 132:257-310. [PMID: 30797511 PMCID: PMC7133493 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2018.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Gametogenesis, the process of forming mature germ cells, is an integral part of both an individual's and a species' health and well-being. This chapter focuses on critical male and female genetic and epigenetic processes underlying normal gamete formation through their differentiation to fertilization. Finally, we explore how knowledge gained from this field has contributed to progress in areas with great clinical promise, such as in vitro gametogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailey Larose
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | | | - Haley Abbott
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Gabriel Manske
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Lei Lei
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
| | - Saher Sue Hammoud
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
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47
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Davidoff MS. The Pluripotent Microvascular Pericytes Are the Adult Stem Cells Even in the Testis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1122:235-267. [PMID: 30937872 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-11093-2_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The pericytes of the testis are part of the omnipresent population of pericytes in the vertebrate body and are the only true pluripotent adult stem cells able to produce structures typical for the tree primitive germ layers: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. They originate very early in the embryogenesis from the pluripotent epiblast. The pericytes become disseminated through the whole vertebrate organism by the growing and differentiating blood vessels where they remain in specialized periendothelial vascular niches as resting pluripotent adult stem cells for tissue generation, maintenance, repair, and regeneration. The pericytes are also the ancestors of the perivascular multipotent stromal cells (MSCs). The variable appearance of the pericytes and their progeny reflects the plasticity under the influence of their own epigenetic and the local environmental factors of the host organ. In the testis the pericytes are the ancestors of the neuroendocrine Leydig cells. After activation the pericytes start to proliferate, migrate, and build transit-amplifying cells that transdifferentiate into multipotent stromal cells. These represent progenitors for a number of different cell types in an organ. Finally, it becomes evident that the pericytes are a brilliant achievement of the biological nature aiming to supply every organ with an omnipresent population of pluripotent adult stem cells. Their fascinating features are prerequisites for future therapy concepts supporting cell systems of organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michail S Davidoff
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Museum of Medical History, Hamburg, Germany.
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48
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Izvolskaia MS, Sharova VS, Ignatiuk VM, Voronova SN, Zakharova LA. Abolition of prenatal lipopolysaccharide-induced reproductive disorders in rat male offspring by fulvestrant. Andrologia 2018; 51:e13204. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marina S. Izvolskaia
- Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology; Russian Academy of Sciences; Moscow Russia
| | - Victoria S. Sharova
- Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology; Russian Academy of Sciences; Moscow Russia
| | | | - Svetlana N. Voronova
- Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology; Russian Academy of Sciences; Moscow Russia
| | - Liudmila A. Zakharova
- Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology; Russian Academy of Sciences; Moscow Russia
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49
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Vizziano-Cantonnet D, Lasalle A, Di Landro S, Klopp C, Genthon C. De novo transcriptome analysis to search for sex-differentiation genes in the Siberian sturgeon. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 268:96-109. [PMID: 30081002 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Revised: 07/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The sturgeon family includes many species that are lucrative for commercial caviar production, some of which face critical conservation problems. The purpose of this study was to identify genes involved in gonadal sex differentiation in sturgeons, contributing to our understanding of the biological cycle of this valuable species. A high-quality de novo Siberian sturgeon gonadal transcriptome was built for this study using gonadal samples from undifferentiated fish at 3, 5, and 6 months of age; recently sex-differentiated fish at 9 months of age; and immature males and females at 14-17 months of age. Undifferentiated fish were sexed after validation of forkhead box L2 (foxl2) and cytochrome P450, family 19, subfamily A, and polypeptide 1a (cyp19a1a) as sex markers, and the transcriptomes of the 3-month-old undifferentiated fish, 5-6-month-old future females, and 5-6-month-old putative males were compared. The ovarian program was associated with strong activation of genes involved in estrogen synthesis (cyp19a1, foxl2, and estradiol 17-beta-dehydrogenase 1), stem-cell niche building and regulation, and sex-specific nerve cell development. The genes related to the stem-cell niche were: (1) the family of iroquois-class homeodomain proteins 3, 4, and 5 (irx3, irx4, irx5-1, irx5-2, and irx5-3), which are essential for somatic-germ cell interaction; (2) extracellular matrix remodeling genes, such as collagen type XXVIII alpha 1 chain and collagen type II alpha 1 chain, matrix metalloproteinases 24-1 and 24-2, and NADPH oxidase organizer 1, which, along with the somatic cells, provide architectural support for the stem-cell niche; and (3) mitogenic factors, such as lim homeobox 2, amphiregulin, G2/M phase-specific E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase, and connector enhancer of kinase suppressor of ras 2, which are up regulated in conjunction with the anti-apoptotic gene G2/M phase-specific E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase suggesting a potential involvement in regulating the number of germ cells. Genes related to sex-specific nerve cell developments were: the neurofilament medium polypeptides, the gene coding for serotonin receptor 7, 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 7; neurotensin, isoform CRA-a, the neuron-specific transmembrane protein Delta/Notch-like epidermal growth factor-related receptor; and insulinoma-associated protein 1. The putative testicular program was poorly characterized by elements of the immune response. The classic markers of maleness were not specifically activated, indicating that testicular differentiation occurs at a later stage. In sum, the ovarian program, but not the testicular program, is in place by 5-6 months of age in the Siberian sturgeon. The female program is characterized by estrogen-related genes with well-established roles in gonadal differentiation, but also by several genes with no previously-described function in the ovarian development of fish. These newly-reported genes are involved in stem-cell niche building and regulation as well as sex-specific nerve development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Vizziano-Cantonnet
- Laboratorio de Fisiología de la Reproducción y Ecología de Peces, Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República Oriental del Uruguay, Iguá 4225, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay.
| | - André Lasalle
- Laboratorio de Fisiología de la Reproducción y Ecología de Peces, Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República Oriental del Uruguay, Iguá 4225, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay
| | - Santiago Di Landro
- Laboratorio de Fisiología de la Reproducción y Ecología de Peces, Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República Oriental del Uruguay, Iguá 4225, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay
| | - Christophe Klopp
- INRA, SIGENAE, MIAT UR875, Chemin de Borde-Rouge - Auzeville, BP 52627, 31326 Castanet-Tolosan Cedex, France
| | - Clémence Genthon
- Plateforme Génomique, INRA Auzeville, Chemin de Borde Rouge-CS 52627, 31326 Castanet-Tolosan Cédex, France
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50
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A perivascular niche for multipotent progenitors in the fetal testis. Nat Commun 2018; 9:4519. [PMID: 30375389 PMCID: PMC6207726 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-06996-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens responsible for male sexual differentiation in utero are produced by Leydig cells in the fetal testicular interstitium. Leydig cells rarely proliferate and, hence, rely on constant differentiation of interstitial progenitors to increase their number during fetal development. The cellular origins of fetal Leydig progenitors and how they are maintained remain largely unknown. Here we show that Notch-active, Nestin-positive perivascular cells in the fetal testis are a multipotent progenitor population, giving rise to Leydig cells, pericytes, and smooth muscle cells. When vasculature is disrupted, perivascular progenitor cells fail to be maintained and excessive Leydig cell differentiation occurs, demonstrating that blood vessels are a critical component of the niche that maintains interstitial progenitor cells. Additionally, our data strongly supports a model in which fetal Leydig cell differentiation occurs by at least two different means, with each having unique progenitor origins and distinct requirements for Notch signaling to maintain the progenitor population. Leydig cells are steroidogenic cells in the testes and produce the androgens required for male development and spermatogenesis. Here the authors show that a multipotent progenitor population producing Leydig cells, pericytes and smooth muscle cells is maintained in a perivascular niche within the mouse fetal testis.
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