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Zhao X, Nie J, Zhou W, Zeng X, Sun X. The metabolomics changes in epididymal lumen fluid of CABS1 deficient male mice potentially contribute to sperm deformity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1432612. [PMID: 39234505 PMCID: PMC11371703 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1432612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Epididymal lumen fluids provides a stable microenvironment for sperm maturation. Ca2+ binding protein CABS1 is known to maintain structural integrity of mouse sperm flagella during epididymal transit of sperm. Besides, CABS1 was reported to contain anti-inflammatory peptide sequences and be present in both human saliva and plasma. However, little is known about the role of CABS1 in regulation of the microenvironment of epididymal lumen fluids. Methods To further confirm the role of CABS1 in epididymis, we identified the expression of CABS1 in epididymal lumen fluids. Moreover, high performance liquid chromatography, coupled with tandem mass spectrometry technique was used to analyze the metabolic profiles and in vivo microperfusion of the cauda epididymis and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) assays was used to detect the concentration of metal ion of mouse cauda epididymal lumen fluids in CABS1 deficient and normal mice. Results The results showed that CABS1 is present in epididymal lumen fluids, and the concentration of calcium in epididymal lumen fluids is not changed in Cabs1-/- male mice. Among 34 differential metabolites identified in cauda epididymis, 21 were significantly upregulated while 13 were significantly downregulated in KO cauda epididymis. Pathway analysis identified pyrimidine metabolism, inositol phosphate metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, purine metabolism and histidine metabolism as relevant pathways in cauda epididymis. Discussion The perturbations of mitochondrial dysfunction and inflammation may be the crucial reason for the poor performance of Cabs1-/- sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuling Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Junyu Nie
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenwen Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuhui Zeng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoli Sun
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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2
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Summers BS, Thomas Broome S, Pang TWR, Mundell HD, Koh Belic N, Tom NC, Ng ML, Yap M, Sen MK, Sedaghat S, Weible MW, Castorina A, Lim CK, Lovelace MD, Brew BJ. A Review of the Evidence for Tryptophan and the Kynurenine Pathway as a Regulator of Stem Cell Niches in Health and Disease. Int J Tryptophan Res 2024; 17:11786469241248287. [PMID: 38757094 PMCID: PMC11097742 DOI: 10.1177/11786469241248287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Stem cells are ubiquitously found in various tissues and organs in the body, and underpin the body's ability to repair itself following injury or disease initiation, though repair can sometimes be compromised. Understanding how stem cells are produced, and functional signaling systems between different niches is critical to understanding the potential use of stem cells in regenerative medicine. In this context, this review considers kynurenine pathway (KP) metabolism in multipotent adult progenitor cells, embryonic, haematopoietic, neural, cancer, cardiac and induced pluripotent stem cells, endothelial progenitor cells, and mesenchymal stromal cells. The KP is the major enzymatic pathway for sequentially catabolising the essential amino acid tryptophan (TRP), resulting in key metabolites including kynurenine, kynurenic acid, and quinolinic acid (QUIN). QUIN metabolism transitions into the adjoining de novo pathway for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) production, a critical cofactor in many fundamental cellular biochemical pathways. How stem cells uptake and utilise TRP varies between different species and stem cell types, because of their expression of transporters and responses to inflammatory cytokines. Several KP metabolites are physiologically active, with either beneficial or detrimental outcomes, and evidence of this is presented relating to several stem cell types, which is important as they may exert a significant impact on surrounding differentiated cells, particularly if they metabolise or secrete metabolites differently. Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) in mesenchymal stromal cells, for instance, highly upregulates rate-limiting enzyme indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO-1), initiating TRP depletion and production of metabolites including kynurenine/kynurenic acid, known agonists of the Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) transcription factor. AhR transcriptionally regulates an immunosuppressive phenotype, making them attractive for regenerative therapy. We also draw attention to important gaps in knowledge for future studies, which will underpin future application for stem cell-based cellular therapies or optimising drugs which can modulate the KP in innate stem cell populations, for disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Sebastian Summers
- Applied Neurosciences Program, Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St. Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sarah Thomas Broome
- Faculty of Science, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Hamish D Mundell
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, New South Wales Brain Tissue Resource Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Naomi Koh Belic
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicole C Tom
- Formerly of the Department of Physiology, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mei Li Ng
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Maylin Yap
- Formerly of the Atherothrombosis and Vascular Biology Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Monokesh K Sen
- Applied Neurosciences Program, Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St. Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sara Sedaghat
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Michael W Weible
- School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Alessandro Castorina
- Faculty of Science, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chai K Lim
- Faculty of Medicine, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael D Lovelace
- Applied Neurosciences Program, Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St. Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bruce J Brew
- Applied Neurosciences Program, Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St. Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Departments of Neurology and Immunology, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- University of Notre Dame, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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3
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Drevet JR, Hallak J, Nasr-Esfahani MH, Aitken RJ. Reactive Oxygen Species and Their Consequences on the Structure and Function of Mammalian Spermatozoa. Antioxid Redox Signal 2022; 37:481-500. [PMID: 34913729 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2021.0235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Among the 200 or so cell types that comprise mammals, spermatozoa have an ambiguous relationship with the reactive oxygen species (ROS) inherent in the consumption of oxygen that supports aerobic metabolism. Recent Advances: In this review, we shall see that spermatozoa need the action of ROS to reach their structural and functional maturity, but that due to intrinsic unique characteristics, they are, perhaps more than any other cell type, susceptible to oxidative damage. Recent studies have improved our knowledge of how oxidative damage affects sperm structures and functions. The focus of this review will be on how genetic and epigenetic oxidative alterations to spermatozoa can have dramatic unintended consequences in terms of both the support and the suppression of sperm function. Critical Issues: Oxidative stress can have dramatic consequences not only for the spermatozoon itself, but also, and above all, on its primary objective, which is to carry out fertilization and to ensure, in part, that the embryonic development program should lead to a healthy progeny. Future Directions: Sperm oxidative DNA damage largely affects the integrity of the paternal genetic material to such an extent that the oocyte may have difficulties in correcting it. Diagnostic and therapeutic actions should be considered more systematically, especially in men with difficulties to conceive. Research is underway to determine whether the epigenetic information carried by spermatozoa is also subject to changes mediated by pro-oxidative situations. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 481-500.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joël R Drevet
- Faculty of Medicine, GReD Institute, INSERM U1103-CNRS UMR6293-Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Jorge Hallak
- Androscience, Science and Innovation Center in Andrology and High-Complex Clinical and Research Andrology Laboratory, São Paulo, Brazil.,Division of Urology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Men's Health Study Group, Institute for Advanced Studies, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Reproductive Toxicology Unit, Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mohammad-Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Robert J Aitken
- Faculty of Science and Priority Research Center for Reproductive Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medicine, Priority Research Center for Reproductive Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia
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4
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Wang H, Montague HR, Hess HN, Zhang Y, Aguilar GL, Dunham RA, Butts IAE, Wang X. Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Key Gene Expression Changes in Blue Catfish Sperm in Response to Cryopreservation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147618. [PMID: 35886966 PMCID: PMC9316979 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The hybrids of female channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) and male blue catfish (I. furcatus) account for >50% of US catfish production due to superior growth, feed conversion, and disease resistance compared to both parental species. However, these hybrids can rarely be naturally spawned. Sperm collection is a lethal procedure, and sperm samples are now cryopreserved for fertilization needs. Previous studies showed that variation in sperm quality causes variable embryo hatch rates, which is the limiting factor in hybrid catfish breeding. Biomarkers as indicators for sperm quality and reproductive success are currently lacking. To address this, we investigated expression changes caused by cryopreservation using transcriptome profiles of fresh and cryopreserved sperm. Sperm quality measurements revealed that cryopreservation significantly increased oxidative stress levels and DNA fragmentation, and reduced sperm kinematic parameters. The present RNA-seq study identified 849 upregulated genes after cryopreservation, including members of all five complexes in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, suggesting a boost in oxidative phosphorylation activities, which often lead to excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) associated with cell death. Interestingly, functional enrichment analyses revealed compensatory changes in gene expression after cryopreservation to offset detrimental effects of ultra-cold storage: MnSOD was induced to control ROS production; chaperones and ubiquitin ligases were upregulated to correct misfolded proteins or direct them to degradation; negative regulators of apoptosis, amide biosynthesis, and cilium-related functions were also enriched. Our study provides insight into underlying molecular mechanisms of sperm cryoinjury and lays a foundation to further explore molecular biomarkers on cryo-survival and gamete quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolong Wang
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (H.W.); (Y.Z.)
- Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (H.R.M.); (H.N.H.); (G.L.A.); (R.A.D.)
| | - Helen R. Montague
- Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (H.R.M.); (H.N.H.); (G.L.A.); (R.A.D.)
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Hana N. Hess
- Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (H.R.M.); (H.N.H.); (G.L.A.); (R.A.D.)
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (H.W.); (Y.Z.)
- Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (H.R.M.); (H.N.H.); (G.L.A.); (R.A.D.)
| | - Gavin L. Aguilar
- Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (H.R.M.); (H.N.H.); (G.L.A.); (R.A.D.)
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Rex A. Dunham
- Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (H.R.M.); (H.N.H.); (G.L.A.); (R.A.D.)
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Ian A. E. Butts
- Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (H.R.M.); (H.N.H.); (G.L.A.); (R.A.D.)
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Correspondence: (I.A.E.B.); (X.W.); Tel.: +1-344-728-7745 (I.A.E.B.); +1-344-844-7511 (X.W.)
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (H.W.); (Y.Z.)
- Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (H.R.M.); (H.N.H.); (G.L.A.); (R.A.D.)
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL 35806, USA
- Correspondence: (I.A.E.B.); (X.W.); Tel.: +1-344-728-7745 (I.A.E.B.); +1-344-844-7511 (X.W.)
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5
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Dufresne J, Gregory M, Pinel L, Cyr DG. Differential gene expression and hallmarks of stemness in epithelial cells of the developing rat epididymis. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 389:327-349. [PMID: 35590013 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03634-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Epididymal development can be subdivided into three phases: undifferentiated, a period of differentiation, and expansion. The objectives of this study were (1) to assess gene expression profiles in epididymides, (2) predict signaling pathways, and (3) develop a novel 3D cell culture method to assess the regulation of epididymal development in vitro. Microarray analyses indicate that the largest changes in differential gene expression occurred between the 7- to 18-day period, in which 1452 genes were differentially expressed, while 671 differentially expressed genes were noted between days 18 and 28, and there were 560 differentially expressed genes between days 28 and 60. Multiple signaling pathways were predicted at different phases of development. Pathway associations indicated that in epididymides of 7- to 18-day old rats, there was a significant association of regulated genes implicated in stem cells, estrogens, thyroid hormones, and kidney development, while androgen- and estrogen-related pathways were enriched at other phases of development. Organoids were derived from CD49f + columnar cells from 7-day old rats, while no organoids developed from CD49f- cells. Cells cultured in an epididymal basal cell organoid medium versus a commercial kidney differentiation medium supplemented with DHT revealed that irrespective of the culture medium, cells within differentiating organoids expressed p63, AQP9, and V-ATPase after 14 days of culture. The commercial kidney medium resulted in an increase in the number of organoids positive for p63, AQP9, and V-ATPase. Together, these data indicate that columnar cells represent an epididymal stem/progenitor cell population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Dufresne
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Université du Québec, 245 boul. Des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 3B7, Canada
| | - Mary Gregory
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Université du Québec, 245 boul. Des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 3B7, Canada
| | - Laurie Pinel
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Université du Québec, 245 boul. Des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 3B7, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Université du Québec, 245 boul. Des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 3B7, Canada. .,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada. .,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Laval University, Québec, QC, Canada.
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6
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Aitken RJ, Drevet JR, Moazamian A, Gharagozloo P. Male Infertility and Oxidative Stress: A Focus on the Underlying Mechanisms. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11020306. [PMID: 35204189 PMCID: PMC8868102 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a critical role in defining the functional competence of human spermatozoa. When generated in moderate amounts, ROS promote sperm capacitation by facilitating cholesterol efflux from the plasma membrane, enhancing cAMP generation, inducing cytoplasmic alkalinization, increasing intracellular calcium levels, and stimulating the protein phosphorylation events that drive the attainment of a capacitated state. However, when ROS generation is excessive and/or the antioxidant defences of the reproductive system are compromised, a state of oxidative stress may be induced that disrupts the fertilizing capacity of the spermatozoa and the structural integrity of their DNA. This article focusses on the sources of ROS within this system and examines the circumstances under which the adequacy of antioxidant protection might become a limiting factor. Seminal leukocyte contamination can contribute to oxidative stress in the ejaculate while, in the germ line, the dysregulation of electron transport in the sperm mitochondria, elevated NADPH oxidase activity, or the excessive stimulation of amino acid oxidase action are all potential contributors to oxidative stress. A knowledge of the mechanisms responsible for creating such stress within the human ejaculate is essential in order to develop better antioxidant strategies that avoid the unintentional creation of its reductive counterpart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-4921-6851
| | - Joël R. Drevet
- GReD Institute, INSERM U1103-CNRS UMR6293—Université Clermont Auvergne, Faculty of Medicine, CRBC Building, 28 Place Henri Dunant, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France; (J.R.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Aron Moazamian
- GReD Institute, INSERM U1103-CNRS UMR6293—Université Clermont Auvergne, Faculty of Medicine, CRBC Building, 28 Place Henri Dunant, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France; (J.R.D.); (A.M.)
- CellOxess LLC, Ewing, NJ 08628, USA;
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Kynurenine induces an age-related phenotype in bone marrow stromal cells. Mech Ageing Dev 2021; 195:111464. [PMID: 33631183 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2021.111464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Advanced age is one of the important contributing factors for musculoskeletal deterioration. Although the exact mechanism behind this degeneration is unknown, it has been previously established that nutritional signaling plays a vital role in musculoskeletal pathophysiology. Our group established the vital role of the essential amino acid, tryptophan, in aging musculoskeletal health. With advanced age, inflammatory factors activate indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO1) and accumulate excessive intermediate tryptophan metabolites such as Kynurenine (KYN). With age, Kynurenine accumulates and suppresses osteogenic differentiation, impairs autophagy, promotes early senescence, and alters cellular bioenergetics of bone marrow stem cells. Recent studies have shown that Kynurenine negatively impacts bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) and, consequently, promotes bone loss. Overall, understanding the mechanism behind BMSCs losing their ability for osteogenic differentiation can provide insight into the prevention of osteoporosis and the development of targeted therapies. Therefore, in this article, we review Kynurenine and how it plays a vital role in BMSC dysfunction and bone loss with age.
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8
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Pleuger C, Silva EJR, Pilatz A, Bhushan S, Meinhardt A. Differential Immune Response to Infection and Acute Inflammation Along the Epididymis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:599594. [PMID: 33329594 PMCID: PMC7729520 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.599594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is a tubular structure connecting the vas deferens to the testis. This organ consists of three main regions—caput, corpus, and cauda—that face opposing immunological tasks. A means of combating invading pathogens is required in the distally located cauda, where there is a risk of ascending bacterial infections originating from the urethra. Meanwhile, immune tolerance is necessary at the caput, where spermatozoa with immunogenic neo-antigens originate from the testis. Consistently, when challenged with live bacteria or inflammatory stimuli, the cauda elicits a much stronger immune response and inflammatory-inflicted damage than the caput. At the cellular level, a role for diverse and strategically positioned mononuclear phagocytes is emerging. At the mechanistic level, differential expression of immunoprotective and immunomodulatory mediators has been detected between the three main regions of the epididymis. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge about region-specific immunological characteristics and unveil possible underlying mechanisms on cellular and molecular levels. Improved understanding of the different immunological microenvironments is the basis for an improved therapy and counseling of patients with epididymal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Pleuger
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Erick José Ramo Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, University Hospital, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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9
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Zhao H, Yu C, He C, Mei C, Liao A, Huang D. The Immune Characteristics of the Epididymis and the Immune Pathway of the Epididymitis Caused by Different Pathogens. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2115. [PMID: 33117332 PMCID: PMC7561410 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is an important male accessory sex organ where sperm motility and fertilization ability develop. When spermatozoa carrying foreign antigens enter the epididymis, the epididymis shows "immune privilege" to tolerate them. It is well-known that a tolerogenic environment exists in the caput epididymis, while pro-inflammatory circumstances prefer the cauda epididymis. This meticulously regulated immune environment not only protects spermatozoa from autoimmunity but also defends spermatozoa against pathogenic damage. Epididymitis is one of the common causes of male infertility. Up to 40% of patients suffer from permanent oligospermia or azoospermia. This is related to the immune characteristics of the epididymis itself. Moreover, epididymitis induced by different pathogenic microbial infections has different characteristics. This article elaborates on the distribution and immune response characteristics of epididymis immune cells, the role of epididymis epithelial cells (EECs), and the epididymis defense against different pathogenic infections (such as uropathogenic Escherichia coli, Chlamydia trachomatis, and viruses to provide therapeutic approaches for epididymitis and its subsequent fertility problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Caiqian Yu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyu He
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunlei Mei
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Donghui Huang
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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10
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Voisin A, Saez F, Drevet JR, Guiton R. The epididymal immune balance: a key to preserving male fertility. Asian J Androl 2020; 21:531-539. [PMID: 30924450 PMCID: PMC6859654 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_11_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Up to 15% of male infertility has an immunological origin, either due to repetitive infections or to autoimmune responses mainly affecting the epididymis, prostate, and testis. Clinical observations and epidemiological data clearly contradict the idea that the testis confers immune protection to the whole male genital tract. As a consequence, the epididymis, in which posttesticular spermatozoa mature and are stored, has raised some interest in recent years when it comes to its immune mechanisms. Indeed, sperm cells are produced at puberty, long after the establishment of self-tolerance, and they possess unique surface proteins that cannot be recognized as self. These are potential targets of the immune system, with the risk of inducing autoantibodies and consequently male infertility. Epididymal immunity is based on a finely tuned equilibrium between efficient immune responses to pathogens and strong tolerance to sperm cells. These processes rely on incompletely described molecules and cell types. This review compiles recent studies focusing on the immune cell types populating the epididymis, and proposes hypothetical models of the organization of epididymal immunity with a special emphasis on the immune response, while also discussing important aspects of the epididymal immune regulation such as tolerance and tumour control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Voisin
- Team Mechanisms of Posttesticular Infertility, GReD Laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103, University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand 63001, France
| | - Fabrice Saez
- Team Mechanisms of Posttesticular Infertility, GReD Laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103, University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand 63001, France
| | - Joël R Drevet
- Team Mechanisms of Posttesticular Infertility, GReD Laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103, University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand 63001, France
| | - Rachel Guiton
- Team Mechanisms of Posttesticular Infertility, GReD Laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103, University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand 63001, France
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11
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Dias FCR, Machado-Neves M, Lima GDA, Martins ALP, Menezes TP, Melo FCSA, Gomes MLM, Cupertino MC, Otoni WC, Matta SLP. How bad is brazilian ginseng extract for reproductive parameters in mice? Histol Histopathol 2020; 35:1135-1149. [PMID: 32735026 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Properties attributed to the Panax ginseng are also attributed to the Brazilian ginseng, such as adaptogenic and aphrodisiac effects. There are studies demonstrating that the Brazilian ginseng (BGE) possibly increases the serum levels of testosterone and nitric oxide in mice and rats. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of its extract on male fertility and sperm quality. Male Swiss mice (n = 60) were divided into six groups. The control animals were provided 0.5 mL of water, and 0.5 mL of water containing 7 mg/kg per day (d) sildenafil citrate. Other animals were treated with BGE at 100 mg/kg/d, 200 mg/kg/d, and 400 mg/kg/d by gavage for 42 days. Finally, animals from the last group received 200 mg/kg BGE every 3 days (3-3d) by gavage for 42 days. The results showed a reduction in the number of resistant spermatids in the testis and damage to daily sperm production, culminating in a reduction in the number of epididymal spermatozoa. Although the sperm quality decreased in all experimental animals, only males treated with BGE 100 mg/kg/d showed pre and post implantation embryo losses. We concluded that BGE alters sperm viability compromising the embryonic development after implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- F C R Dias
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.,Department of Structural Biology, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brazil
| | - M Machado-Neves
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - G D A Lima
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - A L P Martins
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - T P Menezes
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - F C S A Melo
- Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - M L M Gomes
- Department of Structural Biology, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brazil
| | - M C Cupertino
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - W C Otoni
- Department of Plant Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - S L P Matta
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
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12
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Erthal RP, Siervo G, Staurengo-Ferrari L, Fattori V, Pescim RR, Verri WA, Fernandes G. Impairment of postnatal epididymal development and immune microenvironment following administration of low doses of malathion during juvenile and peripubertal periods of rats. Hum Exp Toxicol 2020; 39:1487-1496. [PMID: 32495713 DOI: 10.1177/0960327120930076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Malathion is an organophosphate pesticide widely used for agricultural crops and for vector control of Aedes aegypti. Humans are exposed to this environmental contaminant by ingesting contaminated food. The juvenile and peripubertal periods are critical for the postnatal development of the epididymis and are when animals are most vulnerable to toxic agents. Since juveniles and adolescents are developing under exposure to the insecticide malathion, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of exposure to low doses of malathion on postnatal epididymal development in rats. Male Wistar rats were exposed to malathion daily via gavage at doses of 10 mg kg-1 (M10 group) or 50 mg kg-1 (M50 group) for 40 days (postnatal days (PNDs) 25-65). The control group received the vehicle (0.9% saline) under the same conditions. On PND 40, the epididymides were removed, weighed and used for histological analysis and determination of the inflammatory profile and sperm count. Sperm from the vas deferens were subjected to sperm motility analysis. The M50 group showed tissue remodelling in the caput and cauda epididymides and increased neutrophil and macrophage migration in the caput epididymis. The M10 group showed decreased motile spermatozoa and IL-6 levels in the caput epididymis. Both doses decreased the IL-1β level and altered the morphology of the same region. These results show that malathion exposure may impair postnatal epididymal development. Furthermore, alterations of the immune system in the epididymal environment are presented as new findings regarding the action of malathion on the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- R P Erthal
- Department of General Pathology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Geml Siervo
- Department of General Pathology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - L Staurengo-Ferrari
- Department of General Pathology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - V Fattori
- Department of General Pathology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - R R Pescim
- Department of Statistics, Exact Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - W A Verri
- Department of General Pathology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Gsa Fernandes
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
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13
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Voisin A, Damon-Soubeyrand C, Bravard S, Saez F, Drevet JR, Guiton R. Differential expression and localisation of TGF-β isoforms and receptors in the murine epididymis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:995. [PMID: 31969637 PMCID: PMC6976608 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-57839-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Testes produce spermatozoa that transit through and are stored in the epididymis where they acquire their fertilising capacities. Spermatozoa appear in the genital tract at puberty, long after the immune system was trained to self-antigens. As a consequence, this organ has to set strategies to tolerate sperm antigens to avoid autoimmune responses that would specifically target and destroy them. A recent study pointed the Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) signalling in the dendritic cells as a crucial mechanism for epididymal tolerance to spermatozoa. In the mouse, TGF-β exists under three isoforms, and three distinct receptors have been described. Using RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry and ELISA techniques, we investigated the expression and spatial distribution of the epididymal TGF-β isoforms and of their receptors in young and adult mice. We showed that both ligands and receptors were produced by immune and non-immune cells in the epididymis, whatever the age mice have. These data bring new clues as to the mechanisms of peripheral tolerance to sperm cells in the murine epididymis and raise potential other implications of the cytokine isoforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Voisin
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex, France
| | - Christelle Damon-Soubeyrand
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex, France
| | - Stéphanie Bravard
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex, France
| | - Fabrice Saez
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex, France
| | - Joël R Drevet
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex, France.
| | - Rachel Guiton
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex, France.
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14
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Gualdoni GS, Jacobo PV, Sobarzo CM, Pérez CV, Matzkin ME, Höcht C, Frungieri MB, Hill M, Anegon I, Lustig L, Guazzone VA. Role of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase in testicular immune-privilege. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15919. [PMID: 31685866 PMCID: PMC6828782 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52192-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Male meiotic germ cell including the spermatozoa represent a great challenge to the immune system, as they appear long after the establishment of normal immune tolerance mechanisms. The capacity of the testes to tolerate autoantigenic germ cells as well as survival of allogeneic organ engrafted in the testicular interstitium have led to consider the testis an immunologically privileged site. Disruption of this immune privilege following trauma, tumor, or autoimmune orchitis often results in male infertility. Strong evidence indicates that indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) has been implicated in fetal and allograft tolerance, tumor immune resistance, and regulation of autoimmune diseases. IDO and tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) catalyze the same rate-limiting step of tryptophan metabolism along a common pathway, which leads to tryptophan starvation and generation of catabolites collectively known as kynurenines. However, the relevance of tryptophan metabolism in testis pathophysiology has not yet been explored. Here we assessed the in vivo role of IDO/TDO in experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO), a model of autoimmune testicular inflammation and immunologically impaired spermatogenesis. EAO was induced in adult Wistar rats with testicular homogenate and adjuvants. Control (C) rats injected with saline and adjuvants and normal untreated rats (N) were also studied. mRNA expression of IDO decreased in whole testes and in isolated Sertoli cells during EAO. TDO and IDO localization and level of expression in the testis were analyzed by immunostaining and Western blot. TDO is expressed in granulomas from EAO rats, and similar protein levels were observed in N, C, and EAO groups. IDO was detected in mononuclear and endothelial cells and reduced IDO expression was detected in EAO group compared to N and C rats. This phenomenon was concomitant with a significant reduction of IDO activity in EAO testis measured by tryptophan and kynurenine concentrations (HPLC). Finally, in vivo inhibition of IDO with 1-methyl-tryptophan increased severity of the disease, demonstrating down regulation of IDO-based tolerance when testicular immune regulation was disrupted. We present evidence that an IDO-based mechanism is involved in testicular immune privilege.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela S Gualdoni
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II., Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Patricia V Jacobo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II., Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Cristian M Sobarzo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II., Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Cecilia V Pérez
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - María E Matzkin
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1428ADN, Argentina
| | - Christian Höcht
- Cátedra de Farmacología. Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, UBA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Mónica B Frungieri
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1428ADN, Argentina
| | - Marcelo Hill
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation and Inflammation, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay.,Immunobiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of the Republic, 11800, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Ignacio Anegon
- Inserm, Université de Nantes, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, Nantes, France, INSERM UMR 1064, France
| | - Livia Lustig
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II., Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Vanesa A Guazzone
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II., Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina. .,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina.
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15
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Wijayarathna R, Hedger MP. Activins, follistatin and immunoregulation in the epididymis. Andrology 2019; 7:703-711. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Wijayarathna
- Centre for Reproductive Health Hudson Institute of Medical Research Clayton Vic. Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences School of Clinical Sciences Monash University Clayton Vic. Australia
| | - M. P. Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health Hudson Institute of Medical Research Clayton Vic. Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences School of Clinical Sciences Monash University Clayton Vic. Australia
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16
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Guiton R, Voisin A, Henry-Berger J, Saez F, Drevet JR. Of vessels and cells: the spatial organization of the epididymal immune system. Andrology 2019; 7:712-718. [PMID: 31106984 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One third of infertility cases in couples worldwide has an exclusive male origin and immune disorders, essentially due to repetitive infections, are emerging an cause of male infertility. As the place of sperm maturation, epididymis must be preserved from excessive immune responses that may arise following infections of the male genital tract. At the same time, epididymis must set and maintain a tolerogenic environment in order not to destroy sperm cells that enter the tissue at puberty, long after the immune system has been taught to recognize self pathogens. The immune cells that populate the epididymis have raised growing interest over the last thirty years but they may be not sufficient to understand the immune balance existing in this organ, between immune response to pathogens and tolerance to spermatozoa. Indeed, immune cells are the most motile cells in the organism and need blood and lymphatic vessels to traffic between lymphoid organs and sites of infection to induce efficient responses. OBJECTIVES To review the literature on the blood and lymphatic vessels, and on the immune cells present at steady state in the rodent epididymis (rat and mouse). MATERIALS AND METHODS PubMed database was searched for studies reporting on the spatial organization of the rodent epididymal vasculature and immune cell types at steady state. This search was combined with recent findings from our team. RESULTS At steady state, the rodent epididymis presents with dense blood and lymphatic networks, and a large panel of immune cells distributed across the interstitum and epithelium along the organ. CONCLUSIONS The immune system of the rodent epididymis is highly organized. Exploring its functions, especially in an infectious context, is the essential coming step before any transposition to human.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Guiton
- GReD laboratory, CNRS, UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Auvergne University, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - A Voisin
- GReD laboratory, CNRS, UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Auvergne University, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - J Henry-Berger
- GReD laboratory, CNRS, UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Auvergne University, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - F Saez
- GReD laboratory, CNRS, UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Auvergne University, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - J R Drevet
- GReD laboratory, CNRS, UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Auvergne University, Clermont-Ferrand, France
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17
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Todd EV, Liu H, Lamm MS, Thomas JT, Rutherford K, Thompson KC, Godwin JR, Gemmell NJ. Female Mimicry by Sneaker Males Has a Transcriptomic Signature in Both the Brain and the Gonad in a Sex-Changing Fish. Mol Biol Evol 2019; 35:225-241. [PMID: 29136184 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msx293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic plasticity represents an elegant adaptive response of individuals to a change in their environment. Bluehead wrasses (Thalassoma bifasciatum) exhibit astonishing sexual plasticity, including female-to-male sex change and discrete male morphs that differ strikingly in behavior, morphology, and gonadal investment. Using RNA-seq transcriptome profiling, we examined the genes and physiological pathways underlying flexible behavioral and gonadal differences among female, dominant (bourgeois) male, and female-mimic (sneaker) male blueheads. For the first time in any organism, we find that female mimicry by sneaker males has a transcriptional signature in both the brain and the gonad. Sneaker males shared striking similarity in neural gene expression with females, supporting the idea that males with alternative reproductive phenotypes have "female-like brains." Sneaker males also overexpressed neuroplasticity genes, suggesting that their opportunistic reproductive strategy requires a heightened capacity for neuroplasticity. Bourgeois males overexpressed genes associated with socio-sexual behaviors (e.g., isotocin), but also neuroprotective genes and biomarkers of oxidative stress and aging, indicating a hitherto unexplored cost to these males of attaining the reproductively privileged position at the top of the social hierarchy. Our novel comparison of testicular transcriptomes in a fish with male sexual polymorphism associates greater gonadal investment by sneaker males with overexpression of genes involved in cell proliferation and sperm quality control. We propose that morphological female-mimicry by sneaker male teleosts entails pervasive downregulation of androgenesis genes, consistent with low androgen production in males lacking well-developed secondary sexual characters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica V Todd
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Melissa S Lamm
- Department of Biological Sciences and WM Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
| | - Jodi T Thomas
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Kim Rutherford
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Kelly C Thompson
- Department of Biological Sciences and WM Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
| | - John R Godwin
- Department of Biological Sciences and WM Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
| | - Neil J Gemmell
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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18
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Badawy AAB. Hypothesis kynurenic and quinolinic acids: The main players of the kynurenine pathway and opponents in inflammatory disease. Med Hypotheses 2018; 118:129-138. [PMID: 30037600 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2018.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
I hypothesize that the intermediates of the kynurenine (Kyn) pathway (KP) of tryptophan (Trp) degradation kynurenic acid (KA) and quinolinic acid (QA) play opposite roles in inflammatory diseases, with KA being antiinflammatory and QA being immunosuppressant. Darlington et al. have demonstrated a decrease in the ratio of plasma 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid to anthranilic acid ([3-HAA]/[AA]) in many inflammatory conditions and proposed that this decrease either reflects inflammatory disease or is an antiinflammatory response. I argue in favour of the latter possibility and provide evidence that KA is responsible for the decrease in this ratio by increasing AA formation from Kyn through activation of the kynureninase reaction. Immunosuppression has been attributed to some Kyn metabolites tested at concentrations far greater than could occur in microenvironments. So far, only QA has been shown using immunohistochemistry to reach immunosuppressive levels. Future immune studies of the KP should focus on QA as the potentially main microenvironmentally measurable immunosuppressant and should include KA as an antiinflammatory metabolite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla A-B Badawy
- School of Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Western Avenue, Cardiff CF5 2YB, Wales, UK.
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19
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Voisin A, Whitfield M, Damon-Soubeyrand C, Goubely C, Henry-Berger J, Saez F, Kocer A, Drevet JR, Guiton R. Comprehensive overview of murine epididymal mononuclear phagocytes and lymphocytes: Unexpected populations arise. J Reprod Immunol 2018; 126:11-17. [PMID: 29421624 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Despite increasing evidence that epididymal immune disorders can lead to infertility, the cells and mechanisms underlying epididymal immunity remain poorly understood. In this study, we propose a rather exhaustive overview of innate and adaptive immune cells present in the murine caput and cauda epididymis. Using flow cytometry and a wide set of markers, we screened the broadest panel of immune cells ever, in this organ. For the first time, we unequivocally quantified the innate populations of monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells subtypes. We also revealed the presence of B cells, gamma delta T cells, and double negative T cells in the murine epididymis. They were localized by immunofluorescence stainings, and appeared to be all present in the interstitium and epithelium along the organ, but with respective preferential regional distribution. Altogether, these findings provide new insights on the actors and potential mechanisms involved in the immune responses against genital tract ascending pathogens and in the setting and maintenance of tolerance toward the sperm cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Voisin
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Marjorie Whitfield
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Chantal Goubely
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Joëlle Henry-Berger
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Fabrice Saez
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Ayhan Kocer
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Joël R Drevet
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France.
| | - Rachel Guiton
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France.
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20
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Zhang C, Zhou Y, Xie S, Yin Q, Tang C, Ni Z, Fei J, Zhang Y. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing reveals the synergistic effects of β-defensin family members on sperm maturation in rat epididymis. FASEB J 2018; 32:1354-1363. [PMID: 29141997 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201700936r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The epididymis is a male reproductive organ involved in posttesticular sperm maturation and storage, but the mechanism underlying sperm maturation remains unclear. β-Defensins (Defbs) belong to a family of small, cysteine-rich, cationic peptides that are antimicrobial and modulate the immune response. A large number of Defb genes are expressed abundantly in the male reproductive tract, especially in the epididymis. We and other groups have shown the involvement of several Defb genes in regulation of sperm function. In this study, we found that Defb23, Defb26, and Defb42 were highly expressed in specific regions of the epididymis. Rats with CRISPR/Cas9-mediated single-gene disruption of Defb23, Defb26, or Defb42 had no obvious fertility phenotypes. Those with the deletion of Defb23/ 26 or Defb23/ 26/ 42 became subfertile, and sperm isolated from the epididymal cauda of multiple-mutant rats were demonstrated decreased motility. Meanwhile, the sperm showed precocious capacitation and increased spontaneous acrosome reaction. Consistent with premature capacitation and acrosome reaction, sperm from multiple-gene-knockout rats had significantly increased intracellular calcium. These results suggest that Defb family members affect sperm maturation by a synergistic pattern in the epididymis.-Zhang, C., Zhou, Y., Xie, S., Yin, Q., Tang, C., Ni, Z., Fei, J., Zhang, Y. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing reveals the synergistic effects of β-defensin family members on sperm maturation in rat epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaobao Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tong Ji University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (SIBCB), Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuchuan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (SIBCB), Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shengsong Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (SIBCB), Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qianqian Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (SIBCB), Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunhua Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (SIBCB), Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zimei Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (SIBCB), Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Fei
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tong Ji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yonglian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (SIBCB), Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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21
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Hu SG, Liang AJ, Yao GX, Li XQ, Zou M, Liu JW, Sun Y. The dynamic metabolomic changes throughout mouse epididymal lumen fluid potentially contribute to sperm maturation. Andrology 2017; 6:247-255. [PMID: 29194995 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Epididymal lumen fluids are directly responsible for sperm maturation. However, very little is known about the molecular details of small molecule metabolites in the epididymal lumen fluids until now. Here we identified and compared the metabolic profiles of mouse caput and cauda epididymal lumen fluids using GC-MS technique. Among 236 metabolites identified in caput and cauda epididymis, 36 were significantly enriched in caput epididymis while 18 were significantly enriched in cauda epididymis. Pathway analysis identified ascorbate and aldarate metabolism and beta-alanine metabolism as most relevant pathways in caput and cauda epididymis, respectively. Ascorbate, dehydroascorbic acid and beta-alanine associated with these two pathways were firstly reported in mouse epididymal lumen fluids and might play important roles in sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S-G Hu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Molecular Andrology, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - A-J Liang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - G-X Yao
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Molecular Andrology, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - X-Q Li
- Department of Endocrine, Shanghai Pudong New Area Gongli Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - M Zou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Molecular Andrology, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - J-W Liu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Y Sun
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
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22
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Ogo FM, Lion Siervo GEM, Staurengo‐Ferrari L, Oliveira Mendes L, Luchetta NR, Vieira HR, Fattori V, Verri WA, Scarano WR, Fernandes GSA. Bisphenol A Exposure Impairs Epididymal Development during the Peripubertal Period of Rats: Inflammatory Profile and Tissue Changes. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2017; 122:262-270. [DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Mithie Ogo
- Department of General Biology Biological Sciences Center State University of Londrina – UEL Londrina Brazil
- Department of Pathological Sciences Biological Sciences Center State University of Londrina – UEL Londrina Brazil
| | - Glaucia Eloisa Munhoz Lion Siervo
- Department of General Biology Biological Sciences Center State University of Londrina – UEL Londrina Brazil
- Department of Pathological Sciences Biological Sciences Center State University of Londrina – UEL Londrina Brazil
| | - Larissa Staurengo‐Ferrari
- Department of General Biology Biological Sciences Center State University of Londrina – UEL Londrina Brazil
| | - Leonardo Oliveira Mendes
- Department of Morphology Institute of Biosciences UNESP – Paulista State University Botucatu Brazil
| | - Nicla Renata Luchetta
- Department of General Biology Biological Sciences Center State University of Londrina – UEL Londrina Brazil
| | - Henrique Rodrigues Vieira
- Department of General Biology Biological Sciences Center State University of Londrina – UEL Londrina Brazil
| | - Victor Fattori
- Department of Pathological Sciences Biological Sciences Center State University of Londrina – UEL Londrina Brazil
| | - Waldiceu Aparecido Verri
- Department of Pathological Sciences Biological Sciences Center State University of Londrina – UEL Londrina Brazil
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23
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Routy JP, Routy B, Graziani GM, Mehraj V. The Kynurenine Pathway Is a Double-Edged Sword in Immune-Privileged Sites and in Cancer: Implications for Immunotherapy. Int J Tryptophan Res 2016; 9:67-77. [PMID: 27773992 PMCID: PMC5063567 DOI: 10.4137/ijtr.s38355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Revised: 09/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The term “immune privilege” was originally coined to describe the suppression of inflammatory responses within organs protected by anatomic barriers, ie, the eyes, brain, placenta, and testes. However, cellular and metabolic processes, which orchestrate immune responses, also control inflammation within these sites. Our current understanding of tolerogenic mechanisms has extended the definition of immune privilege to include hair follicles, the colon, and cancer. By catabolizing tryptophan, cells expressing the enzyme indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase produce kynurenine metabolites, which orchestrate local and systemic responses to control inflammation, thus maintaining immune privilege. This review highlights the double-edged role played by the kynurenine pathway (KP), which establishes and maintains immune-privileged sites while contributing to cancer immune escape. The identification of the underlying molecular drivers of the KP in immune-privileged sites and in cancer is essential for the development of novel therapies to treat autoimmunity and cancer and to improve transplantation outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pierre Routy
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.; The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.; Professor of Medicine, Division of Hematology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.; Louis Lowenstein Chair in Hematology and Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Bertrand Routy
- Postdoctoral Fellow, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France.; INSERM U1015, Villejuif, France
| | - Gina M Graziani
- Research Associate, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Vikram Mehraj
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.; Postdoctoral Fellow, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
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24
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Michel V, Pilatz A, Hedger MP, Meinhardt A. Epididymitis: revelations at the convergence of clinical and basic sciences. Asian J Androl 2016; 17:756-63. [PMID: 26112484 PMCID: PMC4577585 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.155770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute epididymitis represents a common medical condition in the urological outpatient clinic. Mostly, epididymitis is caused by bacterial ascent through the urogenital tract, with pathogens originating either from sexually transmitted diseases or urinary tract infections. Although conservative antimicrobial therapy is possible in the majority of patients and is usually sufficient to eradicate the pathogen, studies have shown persistent oligozoospermia and azoospermia in up to 40% of these patients. Animal models of epididymitis are created to delineate the underlying reasons for this observation and the additional impairment of sperm function that is often associated with the disease. Accumulated data provide evidence of a differential expression of immune cells, immunoregulatory genes and pathogen-sensing molecules along the length of the epididymal duct. The evidence suggests that a tolerogenic environment exists in the caput epididymidis, but that inflammatory responses are most intense toward the cauda epididymidis. This is consistent with the need to provide protection for the neo-antigens of spermatozoa emerging from the testis, without compromising the ability to respond to ascending infections. However, severe inflammatory responses, particularly in the cauda, may lead to collateral damage to the structure and function of the epididymis. Convergence of the clinical observations with appropriate animal studies should lead to better understanding of the immunological environment throughout the epididymis, the parameters underlying susceptibility to epididymitis, and to therapeutic approaches that can mitigate epididymal damage and subsequent fertility problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology; Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, 35385 Giessen, Germany
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25
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Whitfield M, Ouvrier A, Cadet R, Damon-Soubeyrand C, Guiton R, Janny L, Kocer A, Marceau G, Pons-Rejraji H, Trousson A, Drevet JR, Saez F. Liver X Receptors (LXRs) Alpha and Beta Play Distinct Roles in the Mouse Epididymis1. Biol Reprod 2016; 94:55. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.133538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
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26
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Gharagozloo P, Gutiérrez-Adán A, Champroux A, Noblanc A, Kocer A, Calle A, Pérez-Cerezales S, Pericuesta E, Polhemus A, Moazamian A, Drevet JR, Aitken RJ. A novel antioxidant formulation designed to treat male infertility associated with oxidative stress: promising preclinical evidence from animal models. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:252-62. [PMID: 26732620 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does a novel antioxidant formulation designed to restore redox balance within the male reproductive tract, reduce sperm DNA damage and increase pregnancy rates in mouse models of sperm oxidative stress? SUMMARY ANSWER Oral administration of a novel antioxidant formulation significantly reduced sperm DNA damage in glutathione peroxidase 5 (GPX5), knockout mice and restored pregnancy rates to near-normal levels in mice subjected to scrotal heat stress. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Animal and human studies have documented the adverse effect of sperm DNA damage on fertilization rates, embryo quality, miscarriage rates and the transfer of de novo mutations to offspring. Semen samples of infertile men are known to be deficient in several key antioxidants relative to their fertile counterparts. Antioxidants alone or in combination have demonstrated limited efficacy against sperm oxidative stress and DNA damage in numerous human clinical trials, however these studies have not been definitive and an optimum combination has remained elusive. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The efficacy of the antioxidant formulation was evaluated in two well-established mouse models of oxidative stress, scrotal heating and Gpx5 knockout (KO) mice, (n = 12 per experimental group), by two independent laboratories. Mice were provided the antioxidant product in their drinking water for 2-8 weeks and compared with control groups for sperm DNA damage and pregnancy rates. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS In the Gpx5 KO model, oxidative DNA damage was monitored in spermatozoa by immunocytochemical detection of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG). In the scrotal heat stress model, male fertility was tested by partnering with three females for 5 days. The percentage of pregnant females, number of vaginal plugs, resorptions per litter, and litter size were recorded. MAIN RESULTS AND ROLE OF CHANCE Using immunocytochemical detection of 8OHdG as a biomarker of DNA oxidation, analysis of control mice revealed that around 30% of the sperm population was positively stained. This level increased to about 60% in transgenic mice deficient in the antioxidant enzyme, GPX5. Our results indicate that an 8 week pretreatment of Gpx5 KO mice with the antioxidant formulation provided complete protection of sperm DNA against oxidative damage. In mouse models of scrotal heat stress, only 35% (19/54) of female mice became pregnant resulting in 169 fetuses with 18% fetal resorption (30/169). This is in contrast to the antioxidant pretreated group where 74% (42/57) of female mice became pregnant, resulting in 427 fetuses with 9% fetal resorption (38/427). In both animal models the protection provided by the novel antioxidant was statistically significant (P < 0.01 for the reduction of 8OHdG in the spermatozoa of Gpx5 KO mice and P < 0.05 for increase in fertility in the scrotal heat stress model). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION It was not possible to determine the exact level of antioxidant consumption for each mouse during the treatment period. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Recent clinical studies confirm moderate to severe sperm DNA damage in about 60% of all men visiting IVF centers and in about 80% of men diagnosed with idiopathic male infertility. Our results, if confirmed in humans, will impact clinical fertility practice because they support the concept of using an efficacious antioxidant supplementation as a preconception therapy, in order to optimize fertilization rates, help to maintain a healthy pregnancy and limit the mutational load carried by children. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The study was funded by the Clermont Université and the University of Madrid. P.G. is the Managing Director of CellOxess LLC, which has a commercial interest in the detection and resolution of oxidative stress. A.M. and A.P. are employees of CellOxess, LLC. J.R.D., A.G.-A. and R.J.A. are honorary members of the CellOxess advisory board.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Gharagozloo
- CellOxess LLC, 15 Roszel Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | | | - A Champroux
- GReD Lab CNRS UMR6293-INSERM U1103 Université Blaise Pascal-Clermont II, Clermont-Ferrand 63001, France
| | - A Noblanc
- GReD Lab CNRS UMR6293-INSERM U1103 Université Blaise Pascal-Clermont II, Clermont-Ferrand 63001, France
| | - A Kocer
- GReD Lab CNRS UMR6293-INSERM U1103 Université Blaise Pascal-Clermont II, Clermont-Ferrand 63001, France
| | - A Calle
- INIA, Animal Reproduction, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | | | | | - A Polhemus
- CellOxess LLC, 15 Roszel Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - A Moazamian
- CellOxess LLC, 15 Roszel Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - J R Drevet
- GReD Lab CNRS UMR6293-INSERM U1103 Université Blaise Pascal-Clermont II, Clermont-Ferrand 63001, France
| | - R J Aitken
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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27
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Vidal C, Li W, Santner-Nanan B, Lim CK, Guillemin GJ, Ball HJ, Hunt NH, Nanan R, Duque G. The kynurenine pathway of tryptophan degradation is activated during osteoblastogenesis. Stem Cells 2015; 33:111-21. [PMID: 25186311 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2014] [Accepted: 08/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The mechanisms involved in the anabolic effect of interferon gamma (IFNγ) on bone have not been carefully examined. Using microarray expression analysis, we found that IFNγ upregulates a set of genes associated with a tryptophan degradation pathway, known as the kynurenine pathway, in osteogenic differentiating human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC). We, therefore, hypothesized that activation of the kynurenine pathway plays a role in osteoblastogenesis even in the absence of IFNγ. Initially, we observed a strong increase in tryptophan degradation during osteoblastogenesis with and without IFNγ in the media. We next blocked indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase-1 (IDO1), the most important enzyme in the kynurenine pathway, using a siRNA and pharmacological approach and observed a strong inhibition of osteoblastogenesis with a concomitant decrease in osteogenic factors. We next examined the bone phenotype of Ido1 knockout (Ido1(-/-)) mice. Compared to their wild-type littermates, Ido1(-/-) mice exhibited osteopenia associated with low osteoblast and high osteoclast numbers. Finally, we tested whether the end products of the kynurenine pathway have an osteogenic effect on hMSC. We identified that picolinic acid had a strong and dose-dependent osteogenic effect in vitro. In summary, we demonstrate that the activation of the kynurenine pathway plays an important role during the commitment of hMSC into the osteoblast lineage in vitro, and that this process can be accelerated by exogenous addition of IFNγ. In addition, we found that mice lacking IDO1 activity are osteopenic. These data therefore support a new role for the kynurenine pathway and picolinic acid as essential regulators of osteoblastogenesis and as potential new targets of bone-forming cells in vivo.
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28
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29
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Redgrove KA, McLaughlin EA. The Role of the Immune Response in Chlamydia trachomatis Infection of the Male Genital Tract: A Double-Edged Sword. Front Immunol 2014; 5:534. [PMID: 25386180 PMCID: PMC4209867 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is the most prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the world, with more than 100 million cases reported annually. While there have been extensive studies into the adverse effects that CT infection has on the female genital tract, and on the subsequent ability of these women to conceive, studies into the consequences on male fertility have been limited and controversial. This is in part due to the asymptomatic nature of the infection, where it is estimated that 50% of men with Chlamydia fail to show any symptoms. It is accepted, however, that acute and/or persistent CT infection is the causative agent for conditions such as urethritis, epididymitis, epididymo-orchitis, and potentially prostatitis. As with most infections, the immune system plays a fundamental role in the body’s attempts to eradicate the infection. The first and most important immune response to Chlamydia infection is a local one, whereby immune cells such as leukocytes are recruited to the site of infections, and subsequently secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines such as interferon gamma. Immune cells also work to initiate and potentiate chronic inflammation through the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the release of molecules with degradative properties including defensins, elastase, collagenase, cathespins, and lysozyme. This long-term inflammation can lead to cell proliferation (a possible precursor to cancer), tissue remodeling, and scarring, as well as being linked to the onset of autoimmune responses in genetically disposed individuals. This review will focus on the ability of the immune system to recognize and clear acute and persistent chlamydial infections in the male genital tract, and on the paradoxical damage that chronic inflammation resulting from the infection can cause on the reproductive health of the individual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate A Redgrove
- Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Biology and Chemical Biology, University of Newcastle , Callaghan, NSW , Australia ; School of Environmental and Life Science, University of Newcastle , Callaghan, NSW , Australia
| | - Eileen A McLaughlin
- Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Biology and Chemical Biology, University of Newcastle , Callaghan, NSW , Australia ; School of Environmental and Life Science, University of Newcastle , Callaghan, NSW , Australia
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30
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Păunescu TG, Shum WWC, Huynh C, Lechner L, Goetze B, Brown D, Breton S. High-resolution helium ion microscopy of epididymal epithelial cells and their interaction with spermatozoa. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:929-37. [PMID: 25015675 PMCID: PMC4172170 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2014] [Revised: 06/20/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
We examined the rat and mouse epididymis using helium ion microscopy (HIM), a novel imaging technology that uses a scanning beam of He(+) ions to produce nanometer resolution images of uncoated biological samples. Various tissue fixation, sectioning and dehydration methods were evaluated for their ability to preserve tissue architecture. The cauda epididymidis was luminally perfused in vivo to remove most spermatozoa and the apical surface of the epithelial lining was exposed. Fixed epididymis samples were then subjected to critical point drying (CPD) and HIM. Apical stereocilia in principal cells and smaller apical membrane extensions in clear cells were clearly distinguishable in both rat and mouse epididymis using this technology. After perfusion with an activating solution containing CPT-cAMP, a permeant analog of cAMP, clear cells exhibited an increase in the number and size of membrane ruffles or microplicae. In contrast, principal cells did not exhibit detectable structural modifications. High-resolution HIM imaging clearly showed the ultrastructure of residual sperm cells, including the presence of concentric rings on the midpiece, and of cytoplasmic droplets in some spermatozoa. Close epithelium-sperm interactions were also detected. We found a number of sperm cells whose heads were anchored within the epididymal epithelium. In certain cases, the surface of the sperm cytoplasmic droplet was covered with vesicle-like structures whose size is consistent with that of epididymosomes. In conclusion, we describe here the first application of HIM technology to the study of the structure and morphology of the rodent epididymis. HIM technology represents a major imaging breakthrough that can be successfully applied to study the epididymis and spermatozoa, with the goal of advancing our understanding of their structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodor G Păunescu
- Department of Medicine, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Simches Research Center, CPZN 8204, 185 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Winnie W C Shum
- Department of Medicine, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Simches Research Center, CPZN 8204, 185 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02114, USA Present address: School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | | | - Dennis Brown
- Department of Medicine, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Simches Research Center, CPZN 8204, 185 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Department of Medicine, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Simches Research Center, CPZN 8204, 185 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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31
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Smith TB, Cortez-Retamozo V, Grigoryeva LS, Hill E, Pittet MJ, Da Silva N. Mononuclear phagocytes rapidly clear apoptotic epithelial cells in the proximal epididymis. Andrology 2014; 2:755-62. [PMID: 25082073 DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2014.00251.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
We have shown previously that a network of mononuclear phagocytes (MPs) expressing macrophage and dendritic cell markers such as CD11c, F4/80 and CX3CR1, lines the base of the epididymal tubule. However, in the initial segment (IS) and only in that particular segment, epididymal MPs establish extremely close interactions with the epithelium by projecting slender dendrites between most epithelial cells. We undertook the present study to determine how epididymal phagocytes respond to the transient wave of apoptosis initiated by unilateral efferent duct ligation (EDL) in the epididymal epithelium. We show profound morphological and phenotypical changes restricted to the MPs populating the proximal epididymis following EDL. Within 48 h, a large subset of IS epithelial cells had entered an apoptotic state, visualized by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) assay and CD11c(+) and CX3CR1(+) MPs readily engulfed TUNEL-positive cells and other debris. Despite the high levels of apoptosis and the rapid clearance of apoptotic cells occurring after EDL, the epithelium preserved its overall architecture and maintained tight junctions of the blood-epididymis barrier (BEB). The discovery of a functional population of MPs in the epididymal epithelium responsible for maintaining the integrity of the BEB raises further questions regarding the role of these cells in clearing defective epithelial cells in the steady-state epididymis, as well as pathogens and abnormal spermatozoa in the lumen.
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Affiliation(s)
- T B Smith
- Division of Nephrology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Chapin RE, Winton TR, Nowland WS, Kumpf SW, Davenport S, Karanian D, Streck RD, Coskran TM, Barbacci-Tobin EG, Houle C, Campion SN. Primary Cell Cultures for Understanding Rat Epididymal Inflammation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 101:325-32. [DOI: 10.1002/bdrb.21115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 05/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert E. Chapin
- Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology Center of Expertise; Pfizer Worldwide R&D (WRD); Groton Connecticut
| | - Timothy R. Winton
- Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology Center of Expertise; Pfizer Worldwide R&D (WRD); Groton Connecticut
| | - William S. Nowland
- Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology Center of Expertise; Pfizer Worldwide R&D (WRD); Groton Connecticut
| | - Steven W. Kumpf
- Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology Center of Expertise; Pfizer Worldwide R&D (WRD); Groton Connecticut
| | - Scott Davenport
- Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology Center of Expertise; Pfizer Worldwide R&D (WRD); Groton Connecticut
| | | | - Randal D. Streck
- Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology Center of Expertise; Pfizer Worldwide R&D (WRD); Groton Connecticut
| | | | | | | | - Sarah N. Campion
- Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology Center of Expertise; Pfizer Worldwide R&D (WRD); Groton Connecticut
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33
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Sedlmayr P, Blaschitz A, Stocker R. The role of placental tryptophan catabolism. Front Immunol 2014; 5:230. [PMID: 24904580 PMCID: PMC4032907 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2014] [Accepted: 05/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This review discusses the mechanisms and consequences of degradation of tryptophan (Trp) in the placenta, focusing mainly on the role of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase-1 (IDO1), one of three enzymes catalyzing the first step of the kynurenine pathway of Trp degradation. IDO1 has been implicated in regulation of feto-maternal tolerance in the mouse. Local depletion of Trp and/or the presence of metabolites of the kynurenine pathway mediate immunoregulation and exert antimicrobial functions. In addition to the decidual glandular epithelium, IDO1 is localized in the vascular endothelium of the villous chorion and also in the endothelium of spiral arteries of the decidua. Possible consequences of IDO1-mediated catabolism of Trp in the endothelium encompass antimicrobial activity and immunosuppression, as well as relaxation of the placental vasotonus, thereby contributing to placental perfusion and growth of both placenta and fetus. It remains to be evaluated whether other enzymes mediating Trp oxidation, such as indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase-2, Trp 2,3-dioxygenase, and Trp hydroxylase-1 are of relevance to the biology of the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Sedlmayr
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz , Graz , Austria
| | - Astrid Blaschitz
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz , Graz , Austria
| | - Roland Stocker
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute , Darlinghurst, NSW , Australia
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Treatment with citalopram, but not with agomelatine, adversely affects sperm parameters: a case report and translational review. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2014; 26:125-9. [PMID: 24855891 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2013.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse effects of antidepressant drug treatmenton sexual function are well documented but the effects of antidepressants on sperm production have not been researched extensively. METHODS A narrative of an interventional case report of sperm parameters in a 30-year-old Caucasian man with a diagnosis of mixed depressive and anxiety disorder, who underwent citalopram treatment, followed by agomelatine treatment. Clinical observations prompted a review of the pre-clinical and clinical literature on the effects of antidepressant administration or treatment on sperm production and parameters. Findings from the review are discussed to suggest potential underlying mechanisms. RESULTS Abnormal sperm parameters were associated with treatment with the SSRI citalopram. There was an improvement in sperm concentration, motility, progressive motility and sperm morphology following its withdrawal. There was no similar association during subsequent treatment with agomelatine. The clinical observations reflect findings from animal studies, which indicate that antidepressants can have untoward effects on spermatogenesis. CONCLUSIONS SSRI treatment can be associated with impaired semen quality. Potential underlying mechanisms include changes in sperm DNA integrity, activation of IDO and shifting tryptophan metabolism. Further studies of the effects of antidepressants on spermatogenesis might benefit from including investigation of changes in IDO activity during antidepressant administration.
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Hansen DA, Esakky P, Drury A, Lamb L, Moley KH. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor is important for proper seminiferous tubule architecture and sperm development in mice. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:8. [PMID: 24174576 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.108845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is known for its roles in xenobiotic metabolism and essential physiologic processes such as cell growth, death, and differentiation. AHR is also an important regulator of male reproductive processes. However, no studies have characterized the consequences of loss of AHR in spermatogenesis. We used Ahr knockout (Ahr(-/-)) mice to assess the effects of loss of AHR on the architecture and gene expression of the seminiferous epithelium and functional sperm outcomes. The histopathological defects of the Ahr(-/-)seminiferous epithelium included vacuoles, multinucleated giant cells, hypocellularity with widened intercellular spaces, apical sloughing, and an excess number of retained elongated spermatids. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed significant down-regulation of Testin and Magea4, indicating Sertoli cell and spermatogenic dysregulation. Moreover, the reduced expression of Hspa2, Prm1, and Prm2 as well as decreased expression of Nrf2, Sod2, and Ucp2 suggested poorly remodeled germ cells with increased vulnerability to oxidative stress. In wild-type sperm, AHR protein was localized to the acrosome and the principal piece of the mature sperm flagellum. The in vitro fertilization rate was significantly lower with Ahr(-/-) sperm as compared to wild-type sperm, and there were morphologic abnormalities of the Ahr(-/-) sperm head and tail. Taken together, our data indicate that AHR plays an important role in normal sperm development.
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Fatokun AA, Hunt NH, Ball HJ. Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 2 (IDO2) and the kynurenine pathway: characteristics and potential roles in health and disease. Amino Acids 2013; 45:1319-29. [PMID: 24105077 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-013-1602-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2013] [Accepted: 09/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway is the major route for the oxidative degradation of the amino acid tryptophan. Activity of the pathway is involved in several disease conditions, both in the periphery and the central nervous system, including cancer, inflammatory disorders, neurological conditions, psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Three enzymes are now known to catalyze the first and rate-limiting step in the catabolism of tryptophan along this pathway: tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO, subsequently named IDO1), both of which have been extensively studied, and a third enzyme, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 2 (IDO2), a relative newcomer to the kynurenine pathway field. The adjuvant chemotherapeutic agent, 1-methyl-D-tryptophan, was intially suggested to target IDO2, implying involvement of IDO2 in tumorigenesis. Subsequently this compound has been suggested to have alternative actions and the physiological and pathophysiological roles of IDO2 are unclear. Targeted genetic interventions and selective inhibitors provide approaches for investigating the biology of IDO2. This review focuses on the current knowledge of IDO2 biology and discusses tools that will assist in further characterizing the enzymes of the kynurenine pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amos A Fatokun
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Cell Signalling, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
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Oxidative stress, spermatozoa and leukocytic infiltration: relationships forged by the opposing forces of microbial invasion and the search for perfection. J Reprod Immunol 2013; 100:11-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2013.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2013] [Revised: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Guiton R, Henry-Berger J, Drevet JR. The immunobiology of the mammalian epididymis: the black box is now open! Basic Clin Androl 2013; 23:8. [PMID: 25780570 PMCID: PMC4349724 DOI: 10.1186/2051-4190-23-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2013] [Accepted: 08/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa represent an immunologic challenge for the mammalian males. They are produced long after the establishment of the immune library of the individual and harbor specific spermatic antigens that are found nowhere else in other organs, tissues and cells. Consequently, spermatozoa are somehow “foreign” to the male adaptive immune system. In order not to elicit autoimmune responses that would be detrimental for male fertility, spermatozoa should be either physically separated from the adaptive immune response and/or, the immune system challenged by spermatic antigens must be efficiently silenced. Within the mammalian male genital tract it becomes more and more obvious that a range of strategies are at stake to ensure that the immune-stranger spermatozoa do not constitute an immunological issue. In this review the focus will be on the immune status of the epididymis tubule, in which spermatozoa that have left the testes will mature for approximately 2 weeks and may be stored for prolonged period of time. How the epididymal immune environment compares to that of the testis and what are the immune regulatory processes at work in the epididymal compartment will only be briefly described. Instead, this review will focus on recent data that highlight epididymal immune regulatory actors that partly explain/illustrate the rather complicated, fragile but nevertheless robust immune environment of the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Guiton
- GReD Laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103, Clermont Université, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Joelle Henry-Berger
- GReD Laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103, Clermont Université, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Joël R Drevet
- GReD Laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103, Clermont Université, Clermont-Ferrand, France
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Jrad-Lamine A, Henry-Berger J, Damon-Soubeyrand C, Saez F, Kocer A, Janny L, Pons-Rejraji H, Munn DH, Mellor AL, Gharbi N, Cadet R, Guiton R, Aitken RJ, Drevet JR. Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (ido1) is involved in the control of mouse caput epididymis immune environment. PLoS One 2013; 8:e66494. [PMID: 23840489 PMCID: PMC3688773 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2012] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The epididymis maintains a state of immune tolerance towards spermatozoa while also protecting them and itself against infection and acute inflammation. The immunosuppressive enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (Ido1) participates in this delicate local equilibrium. Using the mouse Ido1(-/-) model, we show here that the absence of IDO1 expression leads in the epididymis but not in serum to (1) an increase in the inflammatory state as evidenced by changes in the content of cytokines and chemokines, (2) the engagement of a Th1-driven inflammatory response as evidenced by changes in the Th17/Treg as well as Th1/Th2 equilibria, as well as (3) differences in the content of lipid intermediates classically involved in inflammation. Despite this more pronounced inflammatory state, Ido1(-/-) animals succeed in preserving the local epididymal immune situation due to the activation of compensatory mechanisms that are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aicha Jrad-Lamine
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Université, Aubière, France
- Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, El Manar, Département de Biologie, Mutuelleville, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Joelle Henry-Berger
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Université, Aubière, France
| | | | - Fabrice Saez
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Université, Aubière, France
| | - Ayhan Kocer
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Université, Aubière, France
| | - Laurent Janny
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Université, Aubière, France
- CHU Estaing, Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, CECOS, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Hanae Pons-Rejraji
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Université, Aubière, France
- CHU Estaing, Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, CECOS, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - David H. Munn
- Immunotherapy Center and Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Andrew L. Mellor
- Immunotherapy Center and Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Najoua Gharbi
- Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, El Manar, Département de Biologie, Mutuelleville, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Rémi Cadet
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Université, Aubière, France
| | - Rachel Guiton
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Université, Aubière, France
| | - Robert J. Aitken
- Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Joël R. Drevet
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Clermont Université, Aubière, France
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Abstract
BACKGROUND With increasing evidence that hydroperoxides are not only toxic but rather exert essential physiological functions, also hydroperoxide removing enzymes have to be re-viewed. In mammals, the peroxidases inter alia comprise the 8 glutathione peroxidases (GPx1-GPx8) so far identified. SCOPE OF THE REVIEW Since GPxs have recently been reviewed under various aspects, we here focus on novel findings considering their diverse physiological roles exceeding an antioxidant activity. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS GPxs are involved in balancing the H2O2 homeostasis in signalling cascades, e.g. in the insulin signalling pathway by GPx1; GPx2 plays a dual role in carcinogenesis depending on the mode of initiation and cancer stage; GPx3 is membrane associated possibly explaining a peroxidatic function despite low plasma concentrations of GSH; GPx4 has novel roles in the regulation of apoptosis and, together with GPx5, in male fertility. Functions of GPx6 are still unknown, and the proposed involvement of GPx7 and GPx8 in protein folding awaits elucidation. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE Collectively, selenium-containing GPxs (GPx1-4 and 6) as well as their non-selenium congeners (GPx5, 7 and 8) became key players in important biological contexts far beyond the detoxification of hydroperoxides. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Cellular functions of glutathione.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Brigelius-Flohé
- Department of Biochemistry of Micronutrients, German Institute of Human Nutrition, Nuthetal, Germany.
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Fukunaga M, Yamamoto Y, Kawasoe M, Arioka Y, Murakami Y, Hoshi M, Saito K. Studies on tissue and cellular distribution of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 2: the absence of IDO1 upregulates IDO2 expression in the epididymis. J Histochem Cytochem 2012; 60:854-60. [PMID: 22895526 DOI: 10.1369/0022155412458926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) catabolizes tryptophan to kynurenine at the first step of tryptophan metabolism. Recently, in addition to IDO1, a new isoform called IDO2 was identified. In this study, we examined the tissue expression pattern of IDO2 mRNA and the cellular localization of expressed IDO2 protein in mice. IDO1 mRNA expression was observed in the colon and epididymis, whereas IDO2 mRNA expression was found in the cerebral cortex, liver, kidney, and epididymis. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that IDO2 protein was exclusively expressed on the hepatocytes, interlobular bile ducts, neuronal cells of the cerebrum cortex, Purkinje cells of the cerebellum cortex, lamina epithelialis, proximal convoluted tubule, and the collecting tubule of the kidney. In the epididymis, IDO1 protein expression was restricted to the caput, whereas IDO2 protein expression was observed on the caput, corpus, and cauda. Both IDO proteins were expressed on the caput, but both showed a different protein expression pattern in the segments. Immunohistochemical analysis in IDO1(-/-) mouse epididymis showed that IDO2 protein was extensively upregulated due to the loss of IDO1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masakazu Fukunaga
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, Kyoto University, Japan
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Yeung CH, Wang K, Cooper TG. Why are epididymal tumours so rare? Asian J Androl 2012; 14:465-75. [PMID: 22522502 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2012.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Epididymal tumour incidence is at most 0.03% of all male cancers. It is an enigma why the human epididymis does not often succumb to cancer, when it expresses markers of stem and cancer cells, and constitutively expresses oncogenes, pro-proliferative and pro-angiogenic factors that allow tumour cells to escape immunosurveillance in cancer-prone tissues. The privileged position of the human epididymis in evading tumourigenicity is reflected in transgenic mouse models in which induction of tumours in other organs is not accompanied by epididymal neoplasia. The epididymis appears to: (i) prevent tumour initiation (it probably lacks stem cells and has strong anti-oxidative mechanisms, active tumour suppressors and inactive oncogene products); (ii) foster tumour monitoring and destruction (by strong immuno-surveillance and -eradication, and cellular senescence); (iii) avert proliferation and angiogenesis (with persistent tight junctions, the presence of anti-angiogenic factors and misplaced pro-angiogenic factors), which together (iv) promote dormancy and restrict dividing cells to hyperplasia. Epididymal cells may be rendered non-responsive to oncogenic stimuli by the constitutive expression of factors generally inducible in tumours, and resistant to the normal epididymal environment, which mimics that of a tumour niche promoting tumour growth. The threshold for tumour initiation may thus be higher in the epididymis than in other organs. Several anti-tumour mechanisms are those that maintain spermatozoa quiescent and immunologically silent, so the low incidence of cancer in the epididymis may be a consequence of its role in sperm maturation and storage. Understanding these mechanisms may throw light on cancer prevention and therapy in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Hei Yeung
- Shandong Stem Cell Engineering and Technology Research Centre, YuHuangDing Hospital, Yantai, China
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Da Silva N, Cortez-Retamozo V, Reinecker HC, Wildgruber M, Hill E, Brown D, Swirski FK, Pittet MJ, Breton S. A dense network of dendritic cells populates the murine epididymis. Reproduction 2011; 141:653-63. [PMID: 21310816 DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
One of the most intriguing aspects of male reproductive physiology is the ability to generate spermatogenic cells - which are 'foreign' to the host - without triggering immune activation. After leaving the testis, spermatozoa enter the epididymis where they mature and are stored. In this study, we report a previously unrecognized dense network of dendritic cells (DCs) located at the base of the epididymal epithelium. This network was detected in transgenic mice expressing CD11c-EYFP and CX3CR1-GFP reporters. Epididymal DCs (eDCs) establish intimate interactions with the epithelium and project long dendrites between epithelial cells toward the lumen. We show that isolated eDCs express numerous leukocyte markers described previously in other organs that are in contact with the external environment, and present and cross-present ovalbumin to T cells in vitro. eDCs are, therefore, strategically positioned to regulate the complex interplay between immune tolerance and activation, a balance that is fundamental to male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Da Silva
- Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 185 Cambridge Street, CPZN 8.206, Boston, Massachusetts 02114-2790, USA.
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