1
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Delgado-Bermúdez A. Insights into crucial molecules and protein channels involved in pig sperm cryopreservation. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 269:107547. [PMID: 38981798 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107547] [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: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Cryopreservation is the most efficient procedure for long-term preservation of mammalian sperm; however, its use is not currently dominant for boar sperm before its use for artificial insemination. In fact, freezing and thawing have an extensive detrimental effect on sperm function and lead to impaired fertility. The present work summarises the basis of the structural and functional impact of cryopreservation on pig sperm that have been extensively studied in recent decades, as well as the molecular alterations in sperm that are related to this damage. The wide variety of mechanisms underlying the consequences of alterations in expression levels and structural modifications of sperm proteins with diverse functions is detailed. Moreover, the use of cryotolerance biomarkers as predictors of the potential resilience of a sperm sample to the cryopreservation process is also discussed. Regarding the proteins that have been identified to be relevant during the cryopreservation process, they are classified according to the functions they carry out in sperm, including antioxidant function, plasma membrane protection, sperm motility regulation, chromatin structure, metabolism and mitochondrial function, heat-shock response, premature capacitation and sperm-oocyte binding and fusion. Special reference is made to the relevance of sperm membrane channels, as their function is crucial for boar sperm to withstand osmotic shock during cryopreservation. Finally, potential aims for future research on cryodamage and cryotolerance are proposed, which might be crucial to minimise the side-effects of cryopreservation and to make it a more advantageous strategy for boar sperm preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariadna Delgado-Bermúdez
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain.
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2
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Carlisle JA, Gurbuz DH, Swanson WJ. Recurrent Independent Pseudogenization Events of the Sperm Fertilization Gene ZP3r in Apes and Monkeys. J Mol Evol 2024:10.1007/s00239-024-10192-x. [PMID: 39264464 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-024-10192-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Many reproductive proteins show signatures of rapid evolution through sequence divergence and duplication. These features of reproductive genes may complicate the detection of orthologs across taxa, making it difficult to connect studies in model systems to human biology. In mice, ZP3r/sp56 is a binding partner to the egg coat protein ZP3 and may mediate induction of the acrosome reaction, a crucial step in fertilization. In rodents, ZP3r, as a member of the Regulators of Complement Activation cluster, is surrounded by paralogs, some of which have been shown to be evolving under positive selection. Although primate egg coats also contain ZP3, sequence divergence paired with paralogous relationships with neighboring genes has complicated the accurate identification of the human ZP3r ortholog. Here, we phylogenetically and syntenically resolve that the human ortholog of ZP3r is the pseudogene C4BPAP1. We investigate the evolution of this gene within primates. We observe independent pseudogenization events of ZP3r in all Apes with the exception of Orangutans, and independent pseudogenization events in many monkey species. ZP3r in both primates that retain ZP3r and in rodents contains positively selected sites. We hypothesize that redundant mechanisms mediate ZP3 recognition in mammals and ZP3r's relative importance to ZP recognition varies across species.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Carlisle
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, USA.
| | - D H Gurbuz
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - W J Swanson
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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3
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Abstract
Polycystin subunits can form hetero- and homotetrameric ion channels in the membranes of various compartments of the cell. Homotetrameric polycystin channels are voltage- and calcium-modulated, whereas heterotetrameric versions are proposed to be ligand- or autoproteolytically regulated. Their importance is underscored by variants associated with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease and by vital roles in fertilization and embryonic development. The diversity in polycystin assembly and subcellular distribution allows for a multitude of sensory functions by this class of channels. In this review, we highlight their recent structural and functional characterization, which has provided a molecular blueprint to investigate the conformational changes required for channel opening in response to unique stimuli. We consider each polycystin channel type individually, discussing how they contribute to sensory cell biology, as well as their impact on the physiology of various tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orhi Esarte Palomero
- Department of Pharmacology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA;
| | - Megan Larmore
- Department of Pharmacology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA;
| | - Paul G DeCaen
- Department of Pharmacology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA;
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4
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Swain DK, Sharma P, Shah N, Sethi M, Mahajan A, Gupta S, Mishra AK, Yadav S. Introduction to the pathways involved in the activation and regulation of sperm motility: A review of the relevance of ion channels. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:107052. [PMID: 35987804 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
To participate in sperm-oocyte fusion, spermatozoa need to be motile. In the testes, spermatozoa are immotile, although these gametes acquire the capacity for motility during the transit through the epididymis. During the period of epididymal transport from the male genital tract to the female genital tract, spermatozoa exhibit various types of motility that are regulated by complex signalling and communication mechanisms. Because motility is very dynamic, it can be affected by small changes in the external or internal environment of spermatozoa within a very short time. This indicates that regulatory membrane proteins, known as sperm ion channels, are involved in the regulation of sperm motility. Research results from studies, where there was use of electrophysiological, pharmacological, molecular and knock-out approaches, indicate ion channels are possibly involved in the regulation of sperm membrane polarisation, intracellular pH, motility, energy homeostasis, membrane integrity, capacitation, hyperactivity, acrosome reaction and fertilisation processes. In this review, there is summarisation of the key functions that ion channels have in the regulation, initiation, maintenance, and modulation of sperm motility. In addition, in this review there is highlighting of novel insights about the pathways of ion channels that are activated in spermatozoa while these gametes are located in the oviduct leading to the fertilisation capacity of these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilip Kumar Swain
- Sperm Signaling Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Pratishtha Sharma
- Sperm Signaling Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nadeem Shah
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal 132001, Haryana, India
| | - Manisha Sethi
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal 132001, Haryana, India
| | - Abhishek Mahajan
- Sperm Signaling Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shashikant Gupta
- Animal Reproduction Division, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izzatnagar, Bareilly 243122, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | | | - Sarvajeet Yadav
- Sperm Signaling Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
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5
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Treatment of Mouse Sperm with a Non-Catalytic Mutant of PLA2G10 Reveals That PLA2G10 Improves In Vitro Fertilization through Both Its Enzymatic Activity and as Ligand of PLA2R1. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23148033. [PMID: 35887380 PMCID: PMC9320362 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23148033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The group X secreted phospholipase A2 (PLA2G10) is present at high levels in mouse sperm acrosome. The enzyme is secreted during capacitation and amplifies the acrosome reaction and its own secretion via an autocrine loop. PLA2G10 also improves the rate of fertilization. In in vitro fertilization (IVF) experiments, sperm from Pla2g10-deficient mice produces fewer two-cell embryos, and the absence of PLA2G10 is rescued by adding recombinant enzymes. Moreover, wild-type (WT) sperm treated with recombinant PLA2G10 produces more two-cell embryos. The effects of PLA2G10 on mouse fertility are inhibited by sPLA2 inhibitors and rescued by products of the enzymatic reaction such as free fatty acids, suggesting a role of catalytic activity. However, PLA2G10 also binds to mouse PLA2R1, which may play a role in fertility. To determine the relative contribution of enzymatic activity and PLA2R1 binding in the profertility effect of PLA2G10, we tested H48Q-PLA2G10, a catalytically-inactive mutant of PLA2G10 with low enzymatic activity but high binding properties to PLA2R1. Its effect was tested in various mouse strains, including Pla2r1-deficient mice. H48Q-PLA2G10 did not trigger the acrosome reaction but was as potent as WT-PLA2G10 to improve IVF in inbred C57Bl/6 mice; however, this was not the case in OF1 outbred mice. Using gametes from these mouse strains, the effect of H48Q-PLA2G10 appeared dependent on both spermatozoa and oocytes. Moreover, sperm from C57Bl/6 Pla2r1-deficient mice were less fertile and lowered the profertility effects of H48Q-PLA2G10, which were completely suppressed when sperm and oocytes were collected from Pla2r1-deficient mice. Conversely, the effect of WT-PLA2G10 was not or less sensitive to the absence of PLA2R1, suggesting that the effect of PLA2G10 is polymodal and complex, acting both as an enzyme and a ligand of PLA2R1. This study shows that the action of PLA2G10 on gametes is complex and can simultaneously activate the catalytic pathway and the PLA2R1-dependent receptor pathway. This work also shows for the first time that PLA2G10 binding to gametes’ PLA2R1 participates in fertilization optimization.
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6
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Sawada H, Saito T. Mechanisms of Sperm-Egg Interactions: What Ascidian Fertilization Research Has Taught Us. Cells 2022; 11:2096. [PMID: 35805180 PMCID: PMC9265791 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertilization is an essential process in terrestrial organisms for creating a new organism with genetic diversity. Before gamete fusion, several steps are required to achieve successful fertilization. Animal spermatozoa are first activated and attracted to the eggs by egg-derived chemoattractants. During the sperm passage of the egg's extracellular matrix or upon the sperm binding to the proteinaceous egg coat, the sperm undergoes an acrosome reaction, an exocytosis of acrosome. In hermaphrodites such as ascidians, the self/nonself recognition process occurs when the sperm binds to the egg coat. The activated or acrosome-reacted spermatozoa penetrate through the proteinaceous egg coat. The extracellular ubiquitin-proteasome system, the astacin-like metalloproteases, and the trypsin-like proteases play key roles in this process in ascidians. In the present review, we summarize our current understanding and perspectives on gamete recognition and egg coat lysins in ascidians and consider the general mechanisms of fertilization in animals and plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Sawada
- Department of Nutritional Environment, College of Human Life and Environment, Kinjo Gakuin University, Nagoya 463-8521, Japan
- Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8602, Japan
| | - Takako Saito
- Department of Applied Life Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka 422-8529, Japan
- Shizuoka Institute for the Study of Marine Biology and Chemistry, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka 422-8529, Japan
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7
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Martinez G, Coutton C, Loeuillet C, Cazin C, Muroňová J, Boguenet M, Lambert E, Dhellemmes M, Chevalier G, Hograindleur JP, Vilpreux C, Neirijnck Y, Kherraf ZE, Escoffier J, Nef S, Ray PF, Arnoult C. Oligogenic heterozygous inheritance of sperm abnormalities in mouse. eLife 2022; 11:75373. [PMID: 35451961 PMCID: PMC9071268 DOI: 10.7554/elife.75373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is an important health concern that is expected to have a major genetic etiology. Although high-throughput sequencing has linked gene defects to more than 50% of rare and severe sperm anomalies, less than 20% of common and moderate forms are explained. We hypothesized that this low success rate could at least be partly due to oligogenic defects – the accumulation of several rare heterozygous variants in distinct, but functionally connected, genes. Here, we compared fertility and sperm parameters in male mice harboring one to four heterozygous truncating mutations of genes linked to multiple morphological anomalies of the flagellum (MMAF) syndrome. Results indicated progressively deteriorating sperm morphology and motility with increasing numbers of heterozygous mutations. This first evidence of oligogenic inheritance in failed spermatogenesis strongly suggests that oligogenic heterozygosity could explain a significant proportion of asthenoteratozoospermia cases. The findings presented pave the way to further studies in mice and man.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Corinne Loeuillet
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Jana Muroňová
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Magalie Boguenet
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Emeline Lambert
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Magali Dhellemmes
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Geneviève Chevalier
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Charline Vilpreux
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Yasmine Neirijnck
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, Genève, Switzerland
| | - Zine Eddine Kherraf
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Jessica Escoffier
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pierre F Ray
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Christophe Arnoult
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
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8
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Rivera AM, Swanson WJ. The Importance of Gene Duplication and Domain Repeat Expansion for the Function and Evolution of Fertilization Proteins. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:827454. [PMID: 35155436 PMCID: PMC8830517 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.827454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The process of gene duplication followed by gene loss or evolution of new functions has been studied extensively, yet the role gene duplication plays in the function and evolution of fertilization proteins is underappreciated. Gene duplication is observed in many fertilization protein families including Izumo, DCST, ZP, and the TFP superfamily. Molecules mediating fertilization are part of larger gene families expressed in a variety of tissues, but gene duplication followed by structural modifications has often facilitated their cooption into a fertilization function. Repeat expansions of functional domains within a gene also provide opportunities for the evolution of novel fertilization protein. ZP proteins with domain repeat expansions are linked to species-specificity in fertilization and TFP proteins that experienced domain duplications were coopted into a novel sperm function. This review outlines the importance of gene duplications and repeat domain expansions in the evolution of fertilization proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto M. Rivera
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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9
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Chadourne M, Poumerol E, Jouneau L, Passet B, Castille J, Sellem E, Pailhoux E, Mandon-Pépin B. Structural and Functional Characterization of a Testicular Long Non-coding RNA (4930463O16Rik) Identified in the Meiotic Arrest of the Mouse Topaz1 -/- Testes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:700290. [PMID: 34277642 PMCID: PMC8281061 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.700290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis involves coordinated processes, including meiosis, to produce functional gametes. We previously reported Topaz1 as a germ cell-specific gene highly conserved in vertebrates. Topaz1 knockout males are sterile with testes that lack haploid germ cells because of meiotic arrest after prophase I. To better characterize Topaz1–/– testes, we used RNA-sequencing analyses at two different developmental stages (P16 and P18). The absence of TOPAZ1 disturbed the expression of genes involved in microtubule and/or cilium mobility, biological processes required for spermatogenesis. Moreover, a quarter of P18 dysregulated genes are long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and three of them are testis-specific and located in spermatocytes, their expression starting between P11 and P15. The suppression of one of them, 4939463O16Rik, did not alter fertility although sperm parameters were disturbed and sperm concentration fell. The transcriptome of P18-4939463O16Rik–/– testes was altered and the molecular pathways affected included microtubule-based processes, the regulation of cilium movement and spermatogenesis. The absence of TOPAZ1 protein or 4930463O16Rik produced the same enrichment clusters in mutant testes despite a contrasted phenotype on male fertility. In conclusion, although Topaz1 is essential for the meiosis in male germ cells and regulate the expression of numerous lncRNAs, these studies have identified a Topaz1 regulated lncRNA (4930463O16Rik) that is key for both sperm production and motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Chadourne
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Elodie Poumerol
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Luc Jouneau
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Bruno Passet
- INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Johan Castille
- INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | | | - Eric Pailhoux
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
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10
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Zhang X, Xia Z, Lv X, Li D, Liu M, Zhang R, Ji T, Liu P, Ren R. DDB1- and CUL4-associated factor 8 plays a critical role in spermatogenesis. Front Med 2021; 15:302-312. [PMID: 33855678 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-021-0851-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Cullin-RING E3 ubiquitin ligase (CRL)-4 is a member of the large CRL family in eukaryotes. It plays important roles in a wide range of cellular processes, organismal development, and physiological and pathological conditions. DDB1- and CUL4-associated factor 8 (DCAF8) is a WD40 repeat-containing protein, which serves as a substrate receptor for CRL4. The physiological role of DCAF8 is unknown. In this study, we constructed Dcaf8 knockout mice. Homozygous mice were viable with no noticeable abnormalities. However, the fertility of Dcaf8-deficient male mice was markedly impaired, consistent with the high expression of DCAF8 in adult mouse testis. Sperm movement characteristics, including progressive motility, path velocity, progressive velocity, and track speed, were significantly lower in Dcaf8 knockout mice than in wild-type (WT) mice. However, the total motility was similar between WT and Dcaf8 knockout sperm. More than 40% of spermatids in Dcaf8 knockout mice showed pronounced morphological abnormalities with typical bent head malformation. The acrosome and nucleus of Dcaf8 knockout sperm looked similar to those of WT sperm. In vitro tests showed that the fertilization rate of Dcaf8 knockout mice was significantly reduced. The results demonstrated that DCAF8 plays a critical role in spermatogenesis, and DCAF8 is a key component of CRL4 function in the reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuli Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory for Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Zhizhou Xia
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory for Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Xingyu Lv
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Donghe Li
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory for Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Mingzhu Liu
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory for Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Ruihong Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory for Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Tong Ji
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Ping Liu
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory for Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - Ruibao Ren
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory for Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
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11
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Sperm ion channels and transporters in male fertility and infertility. Nat Rev Urol 2020; 18:46-66. [PMID: 33214707 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-020-00390-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian sperm cells must respond to cues originating from along the female reproductive tract and from the layers of the egg in order to complete their fertilization journey. Dynamic regulation of ion signalling is, therefore, essential for sperm cells to adapt to their constantly changing environment. Over the past 15 years, direct electrophysiological recordings together with genetically modified mouse models and human genetics have confirmed the importance of ion channels, including the principal Ca2+-selective plasma membrane ion channel CatSper, for sperm activity. Sperm ion channels and membrane receptors are attractive targets for both the development of contraceptives and infertility treatment drugs. Furthermore, in this era of assisted reproductive technologies, understanding the signalling processes implicated in defective sperm function, particularly those arising from genetic abnormalities, is of the utmost importance not only for the development of infertility treatments but also to assess the overall health of a patient and his children. Future studies to improve reproductive health care and overall health care as a function of the ability to reproduce should include identification and analyses of gene variants that underlie human infertility and research into fertility-related molecules.
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12
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Carlisle JA, Swanson WJ. Molecular mechanisms and evolution of fertilization proteins. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART B-MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2020; 336:652-665. [PMID: 33015976 DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.23004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Sexual reproduction involves a cascade of molecular interactions between the sperm and the egg culminating in cell-cell fusion. Vital steps mediating fertilization include chemoattraction of the sperm to the egg, induction of the sperm acrosome reaction, dissolution of the egg coat, and sperm-egg plasma membrane binding and fusion. Despite decades of research, only a handful of interacting gamete recognition proteins (GRPs) have been identified across taxa mediating each of these steps, most notably in abalone, sea urchins, and mammals. This review outlines and compares notable GRP pairs mediating sperm-egg recognition in these three significant model systems and discusses the molecular basis of species-specific fertilization driven by GRP function. In addition, we explore the evolutionary theory behind the rapid diversification of GRPs between species. In particular, we focus on how the coevolution between interacting sperm and egg proteins may contribute to the formation of boundaries to hybridization. Finally, we discuss how pairing structural information with evolutionary insights can improve our understanding of mechanisms of fertilization and their origins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolie A Carlisle
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington Medical School, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Willie J Swanson
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington Medical School, Seattle, Washington, USA
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13
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Sawada H, Yamamoto K, Yamaguchi A, Yamada L, Higuchi A, Nukaya H, Fukuoka M, Sakuma T, Yamamoto T, Sasakura Y, Shirae-Kurabayashi M. Three multi-allelic gene pairs are responsible for self-sterility in the ascidian Ciona intestinalis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2514. [PMID: 32054881 PMCID: PMC7018956 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59147-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Many hermaphroditic organisms possess a self-incompatibility system to avoid inbreeding. Although the mechanisms of self-incompatibility in flowering plants are well known, little is known about the mechanisms of self-sterility in hermaphroditic marine invertebrates. Ascidians are hermaphroditic sessile marine invertebrates that release sperm and eggs into the surrounding seawater. Several species, including Ciona intestinalis type A (Ciona robusta), exhibit strict self-sterility. In a previous study, we found that the candidate genes responsible for self-sterility in Ciona reside in chromosome 2q (locus A) and chromosome 7q (locus B). Two pairs of multi-allelic genes, named s(sperm)-Themis-A and v(vitelline-coat)-Themis-A in locus A and s-Themis-B and v-Themis-B in locus B, are responsible for self-sterility. In this study, we identified a third multi-allelic gene pair, s-Themis-B2 and v-Themis-B2, within locus B that is also involved in this system. Genetic analysis revealed that the haplotypes of s/v-Themis-A, s/v-Themis-B and s/v-Themis-B2 play essential roles in self-sterility. When three haplotypes were matched between s-Themis and v-Themis, fertilization never occurred even in nonself crossing. Interestingly, gene targeting of either s/v-Themis-B/B2 or s/v-Themis-A by genome editing enabled self-fertilization. These results indicate that s/v-Themis-A, -B and -B2 are S-determinant genes responsible for self-sterility in the ascidian C. intestinalis type A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Sawada
- Sugashima Marine Biological Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Sugashima, Toba, 517-0004, Japan.
| | - Kazunori Yamamoto
- Sugashima Marine Biological Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Sugashima, Toba, 517-0004, Japan
| | - Akira Yamaguchi
- Sugashima Marine Biological Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Sugashima, Toba, 517-0004, Japan
| | - Lixy Yamada
- Sugashima Marine Biological Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Sugashima, Toba, 517-0004, Japan
| | - Arata Higuchi
- Sugashima Marine Biological Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Sugashima, Toba, 517-0004, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Nukaya
- Sugashima Marine Biological Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Sugashima, Toba, 517-0004, Japan
| | - Masashi Fukuoka
- Sugashima Marine Biological Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Sugashima, Toba, 517-0004, Japan
| | - Tetsushi Sakuma
- Division of Integrated Sciences for Life, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, 739-8526, Japan
| | - Takashi Yamamoto
- Division of Integrated Sciences for Life, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, 739-8526, Japan
| | - Yasunori Sasakura
- Shimoda Marine Research Center, University of Tsukuba, Shimoda, Shizuoka, 415-0025, Japan
| | - Maki Shirae-Kurabayashi
- Sugashima Marine Biological Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Sugashima, Toba, 517-0004, Japan
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14
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Jungnickel MK, Sutton KA, Baker MA, Cohen MG, Sanderson MJ, Florman HM. The flagellar protein Enkurin is required for mouse sperm motility and for transport through the female reproductive tract. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:789-797. [PMID: 29733335 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Enkurin was identified initially in mouse sperm where it was suggested to act as an intracellular adaptor protein linking membrane calcium influx to intracellular signaling pathways. In order to examine the function of this protein, a targeted mutation was introduced into the mouse Enkurin gene. Males that were homozygous for this mutated allele were subfertile. This was associated with lower rates of sperm transport in the female reproductive tract, including reduced entry into the oviduct and slower migration to the site of fertilization in the distal oviduct, and with poor progressive motility in vitro. Flagella from wild-type animals exhibited symmetrical bending and progressive motility in culture medium, and demembranated flagella exhibited the "curlicue" response to Ca2+ in vitro. In contrast, flagella of mice homozygous for the mutated allele displayed only asymmetric bending, nonprogressive motility, and a loss of Ca2+-responsiveness following demembrantion. We propose that Enkurin is part of a flagellar Ca2+-sensor that regulates bending and that the motility defects following mutation of the locus are the proximate cause of subfertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa K Jungnickel
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Keith A Sutton
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mark A Baker
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael G Cohen
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael J Sanderson
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Harvey M Florman
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Civetta A, Ranz JM. Genetic Factors Influencing Sperm Competition. Front Genet 2019; 10:820. [PMID: 31572439 PMCID: PMC6753916 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Females of many different species often mate with multiple males, creating opportunities for competition among their sperm. Although originally unappreciated, sperm competition is now considered a central form of post-copulatory male–male competition that biases fertilization. Assays of differences in sperm competitive ability between males, and interactions between females and males, have made it possible to infer some of the main mechanisms of sperm competition. Nevertheless, classical genetic approaches have encountered difficulties in identifying loci influencing sperm competitiveness while functional and comparative genomic methodologies, as well as genetic variant association studies, have uncovered some interesting candidate genes. We highlight how the systematic implementation of approaches that incorporate gene perturbation assays in experimental competitive settings, together with the monitoring of progeny output or sperm features and behavior, has allowed the identification of genes unambiguously linked to sperm competitiveness. The emerging portrait from 45 genes (33 from fruit flies, 8 from rodents, 2 from nematodes, and 2 from ants) is their remarkable breadth of biological roles exerted through males and females, the non-preponderance of sperm genes, and their overall pleiotropic nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Civetta
- Department of Biology, University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - José M Ranz
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
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16
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Cyclin B3 is dispensable for mouse spermatogenesis. Chromosoma 2019; 128:473-487. [PMID: 31446450 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-019-00725-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Cyclins, as regulatory partners of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), control the switch-like cell cycle transitions that orchestrate orderly duplication and segregation of genomes. Compared to mitosis, relatively little is known about how cyclin-CDK complexes control meiosis, the specialized cell division that generates gametes for sexual production. Mouse cyclin B3 was previously shown to have expression restricted to the beginning of meiosis, making it a candidate to regulate meiotic events. Indeed, female mice lacking cyclin B3 are sterile because oocytes arrest at the metaphase-to-anaphase transition of meiosis I. However, whether cyclin B3 functions during spermatogenesis was untested. Here, we found that males lacking cyclin B3 are fertile and show no detectable defects in spermatogenesis based on histological analysis of seminiferous tubules. Cytological analysis further showed no detectable defects in homologous chromosome synapsis or meiotic progression, and suggested that recombination is initiated and completed efficiently. Moreover, absence of cyclin B3 did not exacerbate previously described meiotic defects in mutants deficient for cyclin E2, suggesting a lack of redundancy between these cyclins. Thus, unlike in females, cyclin B3 is not essential for meiosis in males despite its prominent meiosis-specific expression.
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17
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Majkowski M, Laszkiewicz A, Sniezewski L, Grzmil P, Pawlicka B, Tomczyk I, Michniewicz M, Kapusniak V, Janik S, Chodaczek G, Cebrat M. Lack of NWC protein (c11orf74 homolog) in murine spermatogenesis results in reduced sperm competitiveness and impaired ability to fertilize egg cells in vitro. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0208649. [PMID: 30521625 PMCID: PMC6283527 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0208649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
NWC is an uncharacterised protein containing three strongly conserved domains not found in any other known protein. Previously, we reported that the NWC protein is detected in cells in the germinal layer in murine testes (strain: C57BL/6), and its knockout results in no obvious phenotype. We determined the NWC expression pattern during spermatogenesis, and found this protein in spermatocytes and round spermatids, but not in epididymal sperm. Although NWC knockout males are fertile, we further characterised their reproductive potential employing non-standard mating that better simulates the natural conditions by including sperm competition. Such an approach revealed that the sperm of knockout males fail to successfully compete with control sperm. After analysing selected characteristics of the male reproductive system, we found that NWC knockout sperm had a reduced ability to fertilize cumulus-intact eggs during IVF. This is the first report describing a subtle phenotype of NWC knockout mice that could be detected under non-standard mating conditions. Our results indicate that NWC plays an important role in spermatogenesis and its deficiency results in the production of functionally impaired sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Majkowski
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Laszkiewicz
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Lukasz Sniezewski
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Pawel Grzmil
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Bernadetta Pawlicka
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Igor Tomczyk
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Martyna Michniewicz
- Vivarium, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Violetta Kapusniak
- Chair of Biostructure and Physiology, Department of Histology and Embryology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Sylwia Janik
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Chodaczek
- Laboratory of Confocal Microscopy, PORT Polish Centre for Technology Development, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Cebrat
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
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18
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Kumar A, Mishra AK, Swain DK, Singh V, Yadav S, Saxena A. Role of transient receptor potential channels in regulating spermatozoa functions: A mini-review. Vet World 2018; 11:1618-1623. [PMID: 30587898 PMCID: PMC6303503 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2018.1618-1623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Flagellar navigation along the genital tract of male and female in spermatozoa is accomplished through a number of biological, physiological, biochemical, and electrophysiological alterations in spermatozoa. These alterations are highly precise, dynamic, and regulated through a number of ion channels along with their associated pathways. Beating of flagella along with intracellular metabolism of spermatozoa is associated with fluxing of Ca++ as well as release of Ca++ from different sources. Calcium fluxing through the spermatozoa is mediated through sperm-specific calcium channel and also through transient receptor potential (TRP) channels which are diversified multifamily of ion channels which are activated through a number of extracellular agents such as pH, temperature, chemicals, and pathogens. Research has shown the dynamic role of TRP channels in regulating sperm functions such as sperm chemotaxis, rheotaxis, thermotaxis, and eventually fertilization. Diversified forms of TRP and their involvement in regulation of sperm function opens new horizons of understanding of the sperm function and, in specific, issues related to infertility. This mini-review is an attempt to draw some insights into the action of TRP channels in regulating sperm fertility competence through both calcium-dependent and calcium-independent mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Kumar
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abhishek Kumar Mishra
- College of Biotechnology, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Dilip Kumar Swain
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vijay Singh
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sarvajeet Yadav
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Atul Saxena
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
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19
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Serine protease PRSS55 is crucial for male mouse fertility via affecting sperm migration and sperm-egg binding. Cell Mol Life Sci 2018; 75:4371-4384. [PMID: 30032357 PMCID: PMC6208766 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2878-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Testis-specific PRSS55 is a highly conserved chymotrypsin-like serine protease among mammalian species. So far, the physiological function of PRSS55 remains unknown. Here, we show that PRSS55 is a GPI-anchored membrane protein, specifically expressed in adult mouse testis and mainly observed in the luminal side of seminiferous tubules and sperm acrosome. Mice deficient for Prss55 develop male infertile with normal reproduction-related parameters observed. Interestingly, in vivo fertilization rate of Prss55−/− males is dramatically decreased, possibly due to incapable migration of Prss55−/− sperm from uterus into oviduct. However, in vitro fertilization rate has no difference between two genotypes although Prss55−/− sperm presents defective recognition/binding to zona-intact or zona-free oocytes. Further study reveals that mature ADAM3 is almost undetectable in Prss55−/− sperm, while precursor ADAM3 remains unchanged in the testis. However, it is shown that ADAM3 has no interaction with PRSS55 by immunoprecipitation with anti-PRSS55 antibody. The expression levels of several proteins known to be related to the observed phenotypes remain comparable between wt and Prss55−/− mice. Moreover, we found that Prss55 deficiency has no effect on PRSS37 or vice versa albeit two mutant males share almost the same phenotypes. Microarray analysis reveals a total of 72 differentially expressed genes in Prss55−/− testis, most of which are associated with cellular membrane and organelle organization, protein transport and complex assembly, and response to stimulus and signaling. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that PRSS55 plays vital roles in regulating male fertility of mice, including in vivo sperm migration and in vitro sperm–egg interaction, possibly by affecting the maturation of ADAM3 in sperm and the expression of multiple genes in testis.
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20
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Cooper JC, Phadnis N. Parallel Evolution of Sperm Hyper-Activation Ca2+ Channels. Genome Biol Evol 2017; 9:1938-1949. [PMID: 28810709 PMCID: PMC5553355 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evx131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm hyper-activation is a dramatic change in sperm behavior where mature sperm burst into a final sprint in the race to the egg. The mechanism of sperm hyper-activation in many metazoans, including humans, consists of a jolt of Ca2+ into the sperm flagellum via CatSper ion channels. Surprisingly, all nine CatSper genes have been independently lost in several animal lineages. In Drosophila, sperm hyper-activation is performed through the cooption of the polycystic kidney disease 2 (pkd2) Ca2+ channel. The parallels between CatSpers in primates and pkd2 in Drosophila provide a unique opportunity to examine the molecular evolution of the sperm hyper-activation machinery in two independent, nonhomologous calcium channels separated by > 500 million years of divergence. Here, we use a comprehensive phylogenomic approach to investigate the selective pressures on these sperm hyper-activation channels. First, we find that the entire CatSper complex evolves rapidly under recurrent positive selection in primates. Second, we find that pkd2 has parallel patterns of adaptive evolution in Drosophila. Third, we show that this adaptive evolution of pkd2 is driven by its role in sperm hyper-activation. These patterns of selection suggest that the evolution of the sperm hyper-activation machinery is driven by sexual conflict with antagonistic ligands that modulate channel activity. Together, our results add sperm hyper-activation channels to the class of fast evolving reproductive proteins and provide insights into the mechanisms used by the sexes to manipulate sperm behavior.
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21
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Springate L, Frasier TR. Gamete compatibility genes in mammals: candidates, applications and a potential path forward. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2017; 4:170577. [PMID: 28878999 PMCID: PMC5579115 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.170577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Fertilization represents a critical stage in biology, where successful alleles of a previous generation are shuffled into new arrangements and subjected to the forces of selection in the next generation. Although much research has been conducted on how variation in morphological and behavioural traits lead to variation in fertilization patterns, surprisingly little is known about fertilization at a molecular level, and specifically about how genes expressed on the sperm and egg themselves influence fertilization patterns. In mammals, several genes have been identified whose products are expressed on either the sperm or the egg, and which influence the fertilization process, but the specific mechanisms are not yet known. Additionally, in 2014 an interacting pair of proteins was identified: 'Izumo' on the sperm, and 'Juno' on the egg. With the identification of these genes comes the first opportunity to understand the molecular aspects of fertilization in mammals, and to identify how the genetic characteristics of these genes influence fertilization patterns. Here, we review recent progress in our understanding of fertilization and gamete compatibility in mammals, which should provide a helpful guide to researchers interested in untangling the molecular mechanisms of fertilization and the resulting impacts on population biology and evolutionary processes.
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22
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England SJ, Campbell PC, Banerjee S, Swanson AJ, Lewis KE. Identification and Expression Analysis of the Complete Family of Zebrafish pkd Genes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2017; 5:5. [PMID: 28271061 PMCID: PMC5318412 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2017.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) proteins are trans-membrane proteins that have crucial roles in many aspects of vertebrate development and physiology, including the development of many organs as well as left–right patterning and taste. They can be divided into structurally-distinct PKD1-like and PKD2-like proteins and usually one PKD1-like protein forms a heteromeric polycystin complex with a PKD2-like protein. For example, PKD1 forms a complex with PKD2 and mutations in either of these proteins cause Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD), which is the most frequent potentially-lethal single-gene disorder in humans. Here, we identify the complete family of pkd genes in zebrafish and other teleosts. We describe the genomic locations and sequences of all seven genes: pkd1, pkd1b, pkd1l1, pkd1l2a, pkd1l2b, pkd2, and pkd2l1. pkd1l2a/pkd1l2b are likely to be ohnologs of pkd1l2, preserved from the whole genome duplication that occurred at the base of the teleosts. However, in contrast to mammals and cartilaginous and holostei fish, teleosts lack pkd2l2, and pkdrej genes, suggesting that these have been lost in the teleost lineage. In addition, teleost, and holostei fish have only a partial pkd1l3 sequence, suggesting that this gene may be in the process of being lost in the ray-finned fish lineage. We also provide the first comprehensive description of the expression of zebrafish pkd genes during development. In most structures we detect expression of one pkd1-like gene and one pkd2-like gene, consistent with these genes encoding a heteromeric protein complex. For example, we found that pkd2 and pkd1l1 are expressed in Kupffer's vesicle and pkd1 and pkd2 are expressed in the developing pronephros. In the spinal cord, we show that pkd1l2a and pkd2l1 are co-expressed in KA cells. We also identify potential co-expression of pkd1b and pkd2 in the floor-plate. Interestingly, and in contrast to mouse, we observe expression of all seven pkd genes in regions that may correspond to taste receptors. Taken together, these results provide a crucial catalog of pkd genes in an important model system for elucidating cell and developmental processes and modeling human diseases and the most comprehensive analysis of embryonic pkd gene expression in any vertebrate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul C Campbell
- Department of Biology, Syracuse University Syracuse, NY, USA
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23
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Rangan GK, Lopez-Vargas P, Nankivell BJ, Tchan M, Tong A, Tunnicliffe DJ, Savige J. Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: A Path Forward. Semin Nephrol 2016; 35:524-37. [PMID: 26718155 DOI: 10.1016/j.semnephrol.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the commonest inherited cause of renal failure in adults, and is due to loss-of-function mutations in either the PKD1 or PKD2 genes, which encode polycystin-1 and polycystin-2, respectively. These proteins have an essential role in maintaining the geometric structure of the distal collecting duct in the kidney in adult life, and their dysfunction predisposes to renal cyst formation. The typical renal phenotype of ADPKD is the insidious development of hundreds of renal cysts, which form in childhood and grow progressively through life, causing end-stage kidney failure in the fifth decade in about half affected by the mutation. Over the past 2 decades, major advances in genetics and disease pathogenesis have led to well-conducted randomized controlled trials, and observational studies that have resulted in an accumulation of evidence-based data, and raise hope that the lifetime risk of kidney failure due to ADPKD will be progressively curtailed during this century. This review will provide a contemporary summary of the current state of the field in disease pathogenesis and therapeutics, and also briefly highlights the importance of clinical practice guidelines, patient perspectives, patient-reported outcomes, uniform trial reporting, and health-economics in ADPKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gopala K Rangan
- Department of Renal Medicine, Westmead Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District, Westmead, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Transplant and Renal Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Pamela Lopez-Vargas
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Brian J Nankivell
- Department of Renal Medicine, Westmead Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District, Westmead, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Transplant and Renal Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michel Tchan
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Westmead Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | - Allison Tong
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - David J Tunnicliffe
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Judy Savige
- The University of Melbourne, Department of Medicine, Melbourne Health and Northern Health, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Nephrology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Fitness Assays Reveal Incomplete Functional Redundancy of the HoxA1 and HoxB1 Paralogs of Mice. Genetics 2016; 201:727-36. [PMID: 26447130 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.115.178079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene targeting techniques have led to the phenotypic characterization of numerous genes; however, many genes show minimal to no phenotypic consequences when disrupted, despite many having highly conserved sequences. The standard explanation for these findings is functional redundancy. A competing hypothesis is that these genes have important ecological functions in natural environments that are not needed under laboratory settings. Here we discriminate between these hypotheses by competing mice (Mus musculus) whose Hoxb1 gene has been replaced by Hoxa1, its highly conserved paralog, against matched wild-type controls in seminatural enclosures. This Hoxb1(A1) swap was reported as a genetic manipulation resulting in no discernible embryonic or physiological phenotype under standard laboratory tests. We observed a transient decline in first litter size for Hoxb1(A1) homozygous mice in breeding cages, but their fitness was consistently and more dramatically reduced when competing against controls within seminatural populations. Specifically, males homozygous for the Hoxb1(A1) swap acquired 10.6% fewer territories and the frequency of the Hoxb1(A1) allele decreased from 0.500 in population founders to 0.419 in their offspring. The decrease in Hoxb1(A1) frequency corresponded with a deficiency of both Hoxb1(A1) homozygous and heterozygous offspring. These data suggest that Hoxb1 and Hoxa1 are more phenotypically divergent than previously reported and support that sub- and/or neofunctionalization has occurred in these paralogous genes leading to a divergence of gene function and incomplete redundancy. Furthermore, this study highlights the importance of obtaining fitness measures of mutants in ecologically relevant conditions to better understand gene function and evolution.
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25
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Genome engineering uncovers 54 evolutionarily conserved and testis-enriched genes that are not required for male fertility in mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:7704-10. [PMID: 27357688 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1608458113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene-expression analysis studies from Schultz et al. estimate that more than 2,300 genes in the mouse genome are expressed predominantly in the male germ line. As of their 2003 publication [Schultz N, Hamra FK, Garbers DL (2003) Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 100(21):12201-12206], the functions of the majority of these testis-enriched genes during spermatogenesis and fertilization were largely unknown. Since the study by Schultz et al., functional analysis of hundreds of reproductive-tract-enriched genes have been performed, but there remain many testis-enriched genes for which their relevance to reproduction remain unexplored or unreported. Historically, a gene knockout is the "gold standard" to determine whether a gene's function is essential in vivo. Although knockout mice without apparent phenotypes are rarely published, these knockout mouse lines and their phenotypic information need to be shared to prevent redundant experiments. Herein, we used bioinformatic and experimental approaches to uncover mouse testis-enriched genes that are evolutionarily conserved in humans. We then used gene-disruption approaches, including Knockout Mouse Project resources (targeting vectors and mice) and CRISPR/Cas9, to mutate and quickly analyze the fertility of these mutant mice. We discovered that 54 mutant mouse lines were fertile. Thus, despite evolutionary conservation of these genes in vertebrates and in some cases in all eukaryotes, our results indicate that these genes are not individually essential for male mouse fertility. Our phenotypic data are highly relevant in this fiscally tight funding period and postgenomic age when large numbers of genomes are being analyzed for disease association, and will prevent unnecessary expenditures and duplications of effort by others.
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26
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Abstract
Capacitation and the acrosome reaction are key phenomena in mammalian fertilization. These phenomena were found more than 60 years ago. However, fundamental questions regarding the nature of capacitation and the timing of the acrosome reaction remain unsolved. Factors were postulated over time, but as their roles were not verified by gene-disruption experiments, widely accepted notions concerning the mechanism of fertilization are facing modifications. Today, although in vitro fertilization systems remain our central research tool, the importance of in vivo observations must be revisited. Here, primarily focusing on our own research, I summarize how in vivo observations using gene-manipulated animals have elucidated new concepts in the mechanisms of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Okabe
- Center for Genetic Analysis for Biological Responses, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Yamadaoka 3-1, Suita, Osaka 565 0871, Japan
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27
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de Filippo C, Key FM, Ghirotto S, Benazzo A, Meneu JR, Weihmann A, Parra G, Green ED, Andrés AM. Recent Selection Changes in Human Genes under Long-Term Balancing Selection. Mol Biol Evol 2016; 33:1435-47. [PMID: 26831942 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msw023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Balancing selection is an important evolutionary force that maintains genetic and phenotypic diversity in populations. Most studies in humans have focused on long-standing balancing selection, which persists over long periods of time and is generally shared across populations. But balanced polymorphisms can also promote fast adaptation, especially when the environment changes. To better understand the role of previously balanced alleles in novel adaptations, we analyzed in detail four loci as case examples of this mechanism. These loci show hallmark signatures of long-term balancing selection in African populations, but not in Eurasian populations. The disparity between populations is due to changes in allele frequencies, with intermediate frequency alleles in Africans (likely due to balancing selection) segregating instead at low- or high-derived allele frequency in Eurasia. We explicitly tested the support for different evolutionary models with an approximate Bayesian computation approach and show that the patterns in PKDREJ, SDR39U1, and ZNF473 are best explained by recent changes in selective pressure in certain populations. Specifically, we infer that alleles previously under long-term balancing selection, or alleles linked to them, were recently targeted by positive selection in Eurasian populations. Balancing selection thus likely served as a source of functional alleles that mediated subsequent adaptations to novel environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesare de Filippo
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Felix M Key
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Silvia Ghirotto
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Andrea Benazzo
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Juan R Meneu
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Antje Weihmann
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Genís Parra
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Eric D Green
- National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Aida M Andrés
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
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28
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Beltrán C, Treviño CL, Mata-Martínez E, Chávez JC, Sánchez-Cárdenas C, Baker M, Darszon A. Role of Ion Channels in the Sperm Acrosome Reaction. SPERM ACROSOME BIOGENESIS AND FUNCTION DURING FERTILIZATION 2016; 220:35-69. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-30567-7_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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29
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Abi Nahed R, Martinez G, Escoffier J, Yassine S, Karaouzène T, Hograindleur JP, Turk J, Kokotos G, Ray PF, Bottari S, Lambeau G, Hennebicq S, Arnoult C. Progesterone-induced Acrosome Exocytosis Requires Sequential Involvement of Calcium-independent Phospholipase A2β (iPLA2β) and Group X Secreted Phospholipase A2 (sPLA2). J Biol Chem 2015; 291:3076-89. [PMID: 26655718 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.677799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity has been shown to be involved in the sperm acrosome reaction (AR), but the molecular identity of PLA2 isoforms has remained elusive. Here, we have tested the role of two intracellular (iPLA2β and cytosolic PLA2α) and one secreted (group X) PLA2s in spontaneous and progesterone (P4)-induced AR by using a set of specific inhibitors and knock-out mice. iPLA2β is critical for spontaneous AR, whereas both iPLA2β and group X secreted PLA2 are involved in P4-induced AR. Cytosolic PLA2α is dispensable in both types of AR. P4-induced AR spreads over 30 min in the mouse, and kinetic analyses suggest the presence of different sperm subpopulations, using distinct PLA2 pathways to achieve AR. At low P4 concentration (2 μm), sperm undergoing early AR (0-5 min post-P4) rely on iPLA2β, whereas sperm undergoing late AR (20-30 min post-P4) rely on group X secreted PLA2. Moreover, the role of PLA2s in AR depends on P4 concentration, with the PLA2s being key actors at low physiological P4 concentrations (≤2 μm) but not at higher P4 concentrations (~10 μm).
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Abi Nahed
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France
| | - Guillaume Martinez
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France
| | - Jessica Escoffier
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France
| | - Sandra Yassine
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France
| | - Thomas Karaouzène
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France
| | - Jean-Pascal Hograindleur
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France
| | - John Turk
- the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipid Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - George Kokotos
- the Department of Chemistry, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens 15771, Greece
| | - Pierre F Ray
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France, the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, Unité Fonctionnelle de Biochimie et Génétique Moléculaire, Grenoble F-38000, France
| | - Serge Bottari
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France, the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, Plate-forme de Radioanalyse, IBP, CS10217, Grenoble F-38000, France
| | - Gérard Lambeau
- the Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Valbonne 06560, France, the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, Centre d'AMP-CECOS, CS1021, Grenoble F-38000, France
| | - Sylviane Hennebicq
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France, the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, Centre d'AMP-CECOS, CS1021, Grenoble F-38000, France
| | - Christophe Arnoult
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France,
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30
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Hansen JM, Chavez DR, Stanfield GM. COMP-1 promotes competitive advantage of nematode sperm. eLife 2015; 4:e05423. [PMID: 25789512 PMCID: PMC4400581 DOI: 10.7554/elife.05423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Competition among sperm to fertilize oocytes is a ubiquitous feature of sexual reproduction as well as a profoundly important aspect of sexual selection. However, little is known about the cellular mechanisms sperm use to gain competitive advantage or how these mechanisms are regulated genetically. In this study, we utilize a forward genetic screen in Caenorhabditis elegans to identify a gene, comp-1, whose function is specifically required in competitive contexts. We show that comp-1 functions in sperm to modulate their migration through and localization within the reproductive tract, thereby promoting their access to oocytes. Contrary to previously described models, comp-1 mutant sperm show no defects in size or velocity, thereby defining a novel pathway for preferential usage. Our results indicate not only that sperm functional traits can influence the outcome of sperm competition, but also that these traits can be modulated in a context-dependent manner depending on the presence of competing sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jody M Hansen
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, United States
| | - Daniela R Chavez
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, United States
| | - Gillian M Stanfield
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, United States
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31
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Vicens A, Gómez Montoto L, Couso-Ferrer F, Sutton KA, Roldan ERS. Sexual selection and the adaptive evolution of PKDREJ protein in primates and rodents. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 21:146-56. [PMID: 25304980 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PKDREJ is a testis-specific protein thought to be located on the sperm surface. Functional studies in the mouse revealed that loss of PKDREJ has effects on sperm transport and the ability to undergo an induced acrosome reaction. Thus, PKDREJ has been considered a potential target of post-copulatory sexual selection in the form of sperm competition. Proteins involved in reproductive processes often show accelerated evolution. In many cases, this rapid divergence is promoted by positive selection which may be driven, at least in part, by post-copulatory sexual selection. We analysed the evolution of the PKDREJ protein in primates and rodents and assessed whether PKDREJ divergence is associated with testes mass relative to body mass, which is a reliable proxy of sperm competition levels. Evidence of an association between the evolutionary rate of the PKDREJ gene and testes mass relative to body mass was not found in primates. Among rodents, evidence of positive selection was detected in the Pkdrej gene in the family Cricetidae but not in Muridae. We then assessed whether Pkdrej divergence is associated with episodes of sperm competition in these families. We detected a positive significant correlation between the evolutionary rates of Pkdrej and testes mass relative to body mass in cricetids. These findings constitute the first evidence of post-copulatory sexual selection influencing the evolution of a protein that participates in the mechanisms regulating sperm transport and the acrosome reaction, strongly suggesting that positive selection may act on these fertilization steps, leading to advantages in situations of sperm competition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Vicens
- Reproductive Ecology and Biology Group, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Gómez Montoto
- Reproductive Ecology and Biology Group, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Couso-Ferrer
- Departamento de Biología Medioambiental, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Keith A Sutton
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Eduardo R S Roldan
- Reproductive Ecology and Biology Group, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), 28006, Madrid, Spain
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32
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Abstract
Despite numerous studies on mammalian fertilization, the mechanisms of
fertilization—including the timing of acrosome reaction—remain largely unknown; more
accurately described, the classical theory built upon years of layered experimental data
is being challenged by recent conflicting evidence provided by gene-manipulated animals.
Although in vitro fertilization remains our central research tool, the
classical theory’s decline reminds us of the importance of in vivo
observations. Here, I describe the essential roles of gene-manipulated animals in
elucidating the mechanism of fertilization and the pitfalls of in vitro
fertilization studies trapping many researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Okabe
- Center for Genetic Analysis for Biological Responses, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Yamadaoka 3-1, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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33
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Vicens A, Lüke L, Roldan ERS. Proteins involved in motility and sperm-egg interaction evolve more rapidly in mouse spermatozoa. PLoS One 2014; 9:e91302. [PMID: 24608277 PMCID: PMC3948348 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0091302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2014] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteomic studies of spermatozoa have identified a large catalog of integral sperm proteins. Rapid evolution of these proteins may underlie adaptive changes of sperm traits involved in different events leading to fertilization, although the selective forces underlying such rapid evolution are not well understood. A variety of selective forces may differentially affect several steps ending in fertilization, thus resulting in a compartmentalized adaptation of sperm proteins. Here we analyzed the evolution of genes associated to various events in the sperm’s life, from sperm formation to sperm-egg interaction. Evolutionary analyses were performed on gene sequences from 17 mouse strains whose genomes have been sequenced. Four of these are derived from wild Mus musculus, M. domesticus, M. castaneus and M. spretus. We found a higher proportion of genes exhibiting a signature of positive selection among those related to sperm motility and sperm-egg interaction. Furthermore, sperm proteins involved in sperm-egg interaction exhibited accelerated evolution in comparison to those involved in other events. Thus, we identified a large set of candidate proteins for future comparative analyses of genotype-phenotype associations in spermatozoa of species subjected to different sexual selection pressures. Adaptive evolution of proteins involved in motility could be driven by sperm competition, since this selective force is known to increase the proportion of motile sperm and their swimming velocity. On the other hand, sperm proteins involved in gamete interaction could be coevolving with their egg partners through episodes of sexual selection or sexual conflict resulting in species-specific sperm-egg interactions and barriers preventing interspecies fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Vicens
- Reproductive Ecology and Biology Group, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Lena Lüke
- Reproductive Ecology and Biology Group, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo R. S. Roldan
- Reproductive Ecology and Biology Group, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail:
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34
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Chen X, Zhu H, Hu C, Hao H, Zhang J, Li K, Zhao X, Qin T, Zhao K, Zhu H, Wang D. Identification of differentially expressed proteins in fresh and frozen–thawed boar spermatozoa by iTRAQ-coupled 2D LC–MS/MS. Reproduction 2014; 147:321-30. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Cryodamage is a major problem in semen cryopreservation, causing changes in the levels of proteins that influence the function and motility of spermatozoa. In this study, protein samples prepared from fresh and frozen–thawed boar spermatozoa were compared using the isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) labeling technique coupled to 2D LC–MS/MS analysis. A total of 41 differentially expressed proteins were identified and quantified, including 35 proteins that were present at higher levels and six proteins that were present at lower levels in frozen–thawed spermatozoa by at least a mean of 1.79-fold (P<0.05). On classifying into ten distinct categories using bioinformatic analysis, most of the 41 differentially expressed proteins were found to be closely relevant to sperm premature capacitation, adhesions, energy supply, and sperm–oocyte binding and fusion. The expression of four of these proteins, SOD1, TPI1, ODF2, and AKAP3, was verified by western blot analysis. We propose that alterations in these identified proteins affect the quality of cryopreserved semen and ultimately lower its fertilizing capacity. This is the first study to compare protein levels in fresh and frozen–thawed spermatozoa using the iTRAQ technology. Our preliminary results provide an overview of the molecular mechanisms of cryodamage in frozen–thawed spermatozoa and theoretical guidance to improve the cryopreservation of boar semen.
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35
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Arndt L, Castonguay J, Arlt E, Meyer D, Hassan S, Borth H, Zierler S, Wennemuth G, Breit A, Biel M, Wahl-Schott C, Gudermann T, Klugbauer N, Boekhoff I. NAADP and the two-pore channel protein 1 participate in the acrosome reaction in mammalian spermatozoa. Mol Biol Cell 2014; 25:948-64. [PMID: 24451262 PMCID: PMC3952862 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e13-09-0523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A TPCN1 gene–deficient mouse strain is used to show that two convergent working NAADP-dependent pathways with nonoverlapping activation and self-inactivation profiles for distinct NAADP concentrations drive acrosomal exocytosis, by which TPC1 is central for the pathway activated by low-micromolar NAADP concentrations. The functional relationship between the formation of hundreds of fusion pores during the acrosome reaction in spermatozoa and the mobilization of calcium from the acrosome has been determined only partially. Hence, the second messenger NAADP, promoting efflux of calcium from lysosome-like compartments and one of its potential molecular targets, the two-pore channel 1 (TPC1), were analyzed for its involvement in triggering the acrosome reaction using a TPCN1 gene–deficient mouse strain. The present study documents that TPC1 and NAADP-binding sites showed a colocalization at the acrosomal region and that treatment of spermatozoa with NAADP resulted in a loss of the acrosomal vesicle that showed typical properties described for TPCs: Registered responses were not detectable for its chemical analogue NADP and were blocked by the NAADP antagonist trans-Ned-19. In addition, two narrow bell-shaped dose-response curves were identified with maxima in either the nanomolar or low micromolar NAADP concentration range, where TPC1 was found to be responsible for activating the low affinity pathway. Our finding that two convergent NAADP-dependent pathways are operative in driving acrosomal exocytosis supports the concept that both NAADP-gated cascades match local NAADP concentrations with the efflux of acrosomal calcium, thereby ensuring complete fusion of the large acrosomal vesicle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilli Arndt
- Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, 81377 München, Germany Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians University, 81377 München, Germany Institute for Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Albert-Ludwigs-University, 79104 Freiburg, Germany Institute for Anatomy, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45141 Essen, Germany
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36
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Abstract
Fertilization is the process by which eggs and spermatozoa interact, achieve mutual recognition, and fuse to create a zygote, which then develops to form a new individual, thus allowing for the continuity of a species. Despite numerous studies on mammalian fertilization, the molecular mechanisms underpinning the fertilization event remain largely unknown. However, as I summarize here, recent work using both gene-manipulated animals and in vitro studies has begun to elucidate essential sperm and egg molecules and to establish predictive models of successful fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Okabe
- Center for Genetic Analysis for Biological Responses Research Institute for Microbial Diseases Osaka University, Yamadaoka 3-1, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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37
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru OKABE
- Center for Genetic Analysis for Biological Responses, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Yamadaoka 3-1, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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Shen C, Kuang Y, Liu J, Feng J, Chen X, Wu W, Chi J, Tang L, Wang Y, Fei J, Wang Z. Prss37 Is Required for Male Fertility in the Mouse1. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:123. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.107086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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39
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Chang H, Kim BJ, Kim YS, Suarez SS, Wu M. Different migration patterns of sea urchin and mouse sperm revealed by a microfluidic chemotaxis device. PLoS One 2013; 8:e60587. [PMID: 23613731 PMCID: PMC3628882 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0060587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2012] [Accepted: 02/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotaxis refers to a process whereby cells move up or down a chemical gradient. Sperm chemotaxis is known to be a strategy exploited by marine invertebrates such as sea urchins to reach eggs efficiently in moving water. Less is understood about how or whether chemotaxis is used by mammalian sperm to reach eggs, where fertilization takes place within the confinement of a reproductive tract. In this report, we quantitatively assessed sea urchin and mouse sperm chemotaxis using a recently developed microfluidic model and high-speed imaging. Results demonstrated that sea urchin Arbacia punctulata sperm were chemotactic toward the peptide resact with high chemotactic sensitivity, with an average velocity Vx up the chemical gradient as high as 20% of its average speed (238 μm/s), while mouse sperm displayed no statistically significant chemotactic behavior in progesterone gradients, which had been proposed to guide mammalian sperm toward eggs. This work demonstrates the validity of a microfluidic model for quantitative sperm chemotaxis studies, and reveals a biological insight that chemotaxis up a progesterone gradient may not be a universal strategy for mammalian sperm to reach eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixin Chang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Beum Jun Kim
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Yoon Soo Kim
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Susan S. Suarez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail: (SSS); (MW)
| | - Mingming Wu
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail: (SSS); (MW)
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40
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Abstract
The evolution of the egg is dynamic, and eggs have numerous species-specific properties across vertebrates and invertebrates. Interestingly, although the structure and function of the egg have remained relatively conserved over time, some constituents of the egg's extracellular barriers are undergoing rapid evolution. In this article, we review current ideas regarding sperm-egg interactions, discuss genetic approaches used to elucidate egg gene functions, and highlight the interesting differences that have evolved across taxa. We suggest that the rapid evolution of egg components and the mechanisms behind sperm-egg interactions are integrally connected, and delve in depth into each component of the egg's extracellular matrices. Finally, we discuss the promising future of reproductive research and how high-throughput genomics and proteomics have the potential to revolutionize the field and provide new evidence that will challenge previously held views about the fertilization process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina G Claw
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-5065, USA.
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41
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Are TRP channels involved in sperm development and function? Cell Tissue Res 2012; 349:749-64. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-012-1397-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2012] [Accepted: 03/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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42
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Meyer D, Voigt A, Widmayer P, Borth H, Huebner S, Breit A, Marschall S, de Angelis MH, Boehm U, Meyerhof W, Gudermann T, Boekhoff I. Expression of Tas1 taste receptors in mammalian spermatozoa: functional role of Tas1r1 in regulating basal Ca²⁺ and cAMP concentrations in spermatozoa. PLoS One 2012; 7:e32354. [PMID: 22427794 PMCID: PMC3303551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0032354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2011] [Accepted: 01/25/2012] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During their transit through the female genital tract, sperm have to recognize and discriminate numerous chemical compounds. However, our current knowledge of the molecular identity of appropriate chemosensory receptor proteins in sperm is still rudimentary. Considering that members of the Tas1r family of taste receptors are able to discriminate between a broad diversity of hydrophilic chemosensory substances, the expression of taste receptors in mammalian spermatozoa was examined. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The present manuscript documents that Tas1r1 and Tas1r3, which form the functional receptor for monosodium glutamate (umami) in taste buds on the tongue, are expressed in murine and human spermatozoa, where their localization is restricted to distinct segments of the flagellum and the acrosomal cap of the sperm head. Employing a Tas1r1-deficient mCherry reporter mouse strain, we found that Tas1r1 gene deletion resulted in spermatogenic abnormalities. In addition, a significant increase in spontaneous acrosomal reaction was observed in Tas1r1 null mutant sperm whereas acrosomal secretion triggered by isolated zona pellucida or the Ca²⁺ ionophore A23187 was not different from wild-type spermatozoa. Remarkably, cytosolic Ca²⁺ levels in freshly isolated Tas1r1-deficient sperm were significantly higher compared to wild-type cells. Moreover, a significantly higher basal cAMP concentration was detected in freshly isolated Tas1r1-deficient epididymal spermatozoa, whereas upon inhibition of phosphodiesterase or sperm capacitation, the amount of cAMP was not different between both genotypes. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Since Ca²⁺ and cAMP control fundamental processes during the sequential process of fertilization, we propose that the identified taste receptors and coupled signaling cascades keep sperm in a chronically quiescent state until they arrive in the vicinity of the egg - either by constitutive receptor activity and/or by tonic receptor activation by gradients of diverse chemical compounds in different compartments of the female reproductive tract.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Blotting, Western
- Calcium/metabolism
- Cyclic AMP/metabolism
- Female
- Gene Expression
- Humans
- Luminescent Proteins/genetics
- Luminescent Proteins/metabolism
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, 129 Strain
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Mice, Transgenic
- Microscopy, Confocal
- Models, Biological
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/genetics
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/physiology
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Sperm Head/metabolism
- Spermatozoa/metabolism
- Testis/cytology
- Testis/metabolism
- Red Fluorescent Protein
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorke Meyer
- Walther-Straub Institute of Pharmacology and
Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Anja Voigt
- German Institute of Nutrition,
Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Germany
- Institute for Neural Signal Transduction,
Center for Molecular Neurobiology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Patricia Widmayer
- Institute of Physiology, University of
Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Heike Borth
- Walther-Straub Institute of Pharmacology and
Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Sandra Huebner
- German Institute of Nutrition,
Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Germany
| | - Andreas Breit
- Walther-Straub Institute of Pharmacology and
Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Susan Marschall
- Institute of Experimental Genetics,
Helmholtz-Zentrum, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Ulrich Boehm
- Institute for Neural Signal Transduction,
Center for Molecular Neurobiology, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Gudermann
- Walther-Straub Institute of Pharmacology and
Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Ingrid Boekhoff
- Walther-Straub Institute of Pharmacology and
Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
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43
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Morsci NS, Haas LA, Barr MM. Sperm status regulates sexual attraction in Caenorhabditis elegans. Genetics 2011; 189:1341-6. [PMID: 21968192 PMCID: PMC3241412 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.111.133603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2011] [Accepted: 09/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mating behavior of animals is regulated by the sensory stimuli provided by the other sex. Sexually receptive females emit mating signals that can be inhibited by male ejaculate. The genetic mechanisms controlling the release of mating signals and encoding behavioral responses remain enigmatic. Here we present evidence of a Caenorhabditis elegans hermaphrodite-derived cue that stimulates male mating-response behavior and is dynamically regulated by her reproductive status. Wild-type males preferentially mated with older hermaphrodites. Increased sex appeal of older hermaphrodites was potent enough to stimulate robust response from mating-deficient pkd-2 and lov-1 polycystin mutant males. This enhanced response of pkd-2 males toward older hermaphrodites was independent of short-chain ascaroside pheromones, but was contingent on the absence of active sperm in the hermaphrodites. The improved pkd-2 male response toward spermless hermaphrodites was blocked by prior insemination or by genetic ablation of the ceh-18-dependent sperm-sensing pathway of the hermaphrodite somatic gonad. Our work suggests an interaction between sperm and the soma that has a negative but reversible effect on a hermaphrodite-derived mating cue that regulates male mating response, a phenomenon to date attributed to gonochoristic species only.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia S Morsci
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA.
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44
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Abstract
A crucial step of fertilization is the sperm-egg interaction that allows the two gametes to fuse and create the zygote. In the mouse, CD9 on the egg and IZUMO1 on the sperm stand out as critical players, as Cd9(-/-) and Izumo1(-/-) mice are healthy but infertile or severely subfertile due to defective sperm-egg interaction. Moreover, work on several nonmammalian organisms has identified some of the most intriguing candidates implicated in sperm-egg interaction. Understanding of gamete membrane interactions is advancing through characterization of in vivo and in vitro fertilization phenotypes, including insights from less robust phenotypes that highlight potential supporting (albeit not absolutely essential) players. An emerging theme is that there are varied roles for gamete molecules that participate in sperm-egg interactions. Such roles include not only functioning as fusogens, or as adhesion molecules for the opposite gamete, but also functioning through interactions in cis with other proteins to regulate membrane order and functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice P Evans
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA.
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45
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Darszon A, Nishigaki T, Beltran C, Treviño CL. Calcium Channels in the Development, Maturation, and Function of Spermatozoa. Physiol Rev 2011; 91:1305-55. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00028.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A proper dialogue between spermatozoa and the egg is essential for conception of a new individual in sexually reproducing animals. Ca2+ is crucial in orchestrating this unique event leading to a new life. No wonder that nature has devised different Ca2+-permeable channels and located them at distinct sites in spermatozoa so that they can help fertilize the egg. New tools to study sperm ionic currents, and image intracellular Ca2+ with better spatial and temporal resolution even in swimming spermatozoa, are revealing how sperm ion channels participate in fertilization. This review critically examines the involvement of Ca2+ channels in multiple signaling processes needed for spermatozoa to mature, travel towards the egg, and fertilize it. Remarkably, these tiny specialized cells can express exclusive channels like CatSper for Ca2+ and SLO3 for K+, which are attractive targets for contraception and for the discovery of novel signaling complexes. Learning more about fertilization is a matter of capital importance; societies face growing pressure to counteract rising male infertility rates, provide safe male gamete-based contraceptives, and preserve biodiversity through improved captive breeding and assisted conception initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Takuya Nishigaki
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Carmen Beltran
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Claudia L. Treviño
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
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46
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Amaral AR, Möller LM, Beheregaray LB, Coelho MM. Evolution of 2 reproductive proteins, ZP3 and PKDREJ, in cetaceans. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 102:275-82. [PMID: 21273216 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esq131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The rapid evolution of proteins involved in reproduction has been documented in several animal taxa. This is thought to be the result of forces involved in sexual selection and is expected to be particularly strong in promiscuous mating systems. In this study, a range of cetacean species were used to analyze the patterns of evolution in 2 reproductive proteins involved in fertilization: the zona pellucida 3 (ZP3), present in the egg coat, and PKDREJ, localized in the sperm head. We targeted exons 6 and 7 of ZP3 and a part of the REJ domain in PKDREJ for a total of 958 bp in 18 species. We found very low levels of amino acid sequence divergence in both proteins, a very weak signal of positive selection in ZP3 and no signal in PKDREJ. These results were consistent with previous reports of a slow rate of molecular evolution in cetaceans but unexpected due to the existence of promiscuous mating systems in these species. The results raise questions about the evolution of reproductive isolation and species recognition in whales and dolphins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana R Amaral
- Centro de Biologia Ambiental, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, Lisbon, Portugal.
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47
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Kumar PG, Shoeb M. The Role of TRP Ion Channels in Testicular Function. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2011; 704:881-908. [DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-0265-3_46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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48
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Abstract
The founding member of the TRPP family, TRPP2, was identified as one of the disease genes causing autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). ADPKD is the most prevalent, potentially lethal, monogenic disorder in humans, with an average incidence of one in 400 to one in 1,000 individuals worldwide. Here we give an overview of TRPP ion channels and Polycystin-1 receptor proteins focusing on more recent studies. We include the Polycystin-1 family since these proteins are functionally linked to TRPP channels.
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49
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Aquaporin3 is a sperm water channel essential for postcopulatory sperm osmoadaptation and migration. Cell Res 2010; 21:922-33. [PMID: 21135872 DOI: 10.1038/cr.2010.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In the journey from the male to female reproductive tract, mammalian sperm experience a natural osmotic decrease (e.g., in mouse, from ~415 mOsm in the cauda epididymis to ~310 mOsm in the uterine cavity). Sperm have evolved to utilize this hypotonic exposure for motility activation, meanwhile efficiently silence the negative impact of hypotonic cell swelling. Previous physiological and pharmacological studies have shown that ion channel-controlled water influx/efflux is actively involved in the process of sperm volume regulation; however, no specific sperm proteins have been found responsible for this rapid osmoadaptation. Here, we report that aquaporin3 (AQP3) is a sperm water channel in mice and humans. Aqp3-deficient sperm show normal motility activation in response to hypotonicity but display increased vulnerability to hypotonic cell swelling, characterized by increased tail bending after entering uterus. The sperm defect is a result of impaired sperm volume regulation and progressive cell swelling in response to physiological hypotonic stress during male-female reproductive tract transition. Time-lapse imaging revealed that the cell volume expansion begins at cytoplasmic droplet, forcing the tail to angulate and form a hairpin-like structure due to mechanical membrane stretch. The tail deformation hampered sperm migration into oviduct, resulting in impaired fertilization and reduced male fertility. These data suggest AQP3 as an essential membrane pathway for sperm regulatory volume decrease (RVD) that balances the "trade-off" between sperm motility and cell swelling upon physiological hypotonicity, thereby optimizing postcopulatory sperm behavior.
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50
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Ren D, Xia J. Calcium signaling through CatSper channels in mammalian fertilization. Physiology (Bethesda) 2010; 25:165-75. [PMID: 20551230 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00049.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms underlying Ca(2+) entry into sperm are now much more well defined thanks to direct recordings of mature sperm cells. This article reviews the function of a sperm-specific ion channel, CatSper. CatSpers have a clearly defined function in sperm's hyperactivated motility and are essential for male fertility. We propose that physiological stimuli such as zona pellucida and cyclic nucleotides induce Ca(2+) entry through CatSper channels instead of acting on Ca(V) and CNG channels as previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dejian Ren
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
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