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Myers C, Cornwall GA. Host defense amyloids: Biosensors of the immune system? Andrology 2024; 12:973-980. [PMID: 37963844 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
There is considerable evidence showing that highly ordered aggregate structures known as amyloids carry out essential biological roles in species ranging from bacteria to humans. Indeed, many antimicrobial peptides/proteins form amyloids to carry out their host defense functions and many amyloids are antimicrobial. The similarity of host defense amyloids from bacterial biofilms to the mammalian epididymal amyloid matrix implies highly conserved host defense structures/functions. With an emphasis on the epididymal amyloid matrix, here we review the common properties of host defense amyloids including unique traits that would allow them to function as powerful biosensors of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn Myers
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gail A Cornwall
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
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2
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Kiyozumi D. Distinct actions of testicular endocrine and lumicrine signaling on the proximal epididymal transcriptome. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:40. [PMID: 38600586 PMCID: PMC11005294 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01213-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The epididymal function and gene expression in mammals are under the control of the testis. Sex steroids are secreted from the testis and act on the epididymis in an endocrine manner. There is another, non-sex steroidal secreted signaling, named lumicrine signaling, in which testis-derived secreted proteins go through the male reproductive tract and act on the epididymis. The effects of such multiple regulations on the epididymis by the testis have been investigated for many genes. The recent development of high-throughput next-generation sequencing now enables us a further comparative survey of endocrine and lumicrine action-dependent gene expression. In the present study, testis-derived endocrine and lumicrine actions on epididymal gene expression were comparatively investigated by RNA-seq transcriptomic analyses. This investigation utilized experimental animal models in which testis-derived endocrine and/or lumicrine actions were interfered with, such as unilateral or bilateral orchidectomy. By bilateral orchidectomy, which interferes with both endocrine and lumicrine actions, 431 genes were downregulated. By unilateral orchidectomy, which also interferes with endocrine and lumicrine actions by the unilateral testis, but the endocrine action was compensated by the contralateral testis, 283 genes were downregulated. The content of such genes downregulated by unilateral orchidectomy was like those of lumicrine action-interfered efferent duct-ligation, W/Wv, and Nell2-/- mice. When genes affected by unilateral and bilateral orchidectomy were compared, 154 genes were commonly downregulated, whereas 217 genes were specifically downregulated only by bilateral orchidectomy, indicating the distinction between endocrine and lumicrine actions on the proximal epididymal transcriptome. Comparative transcriptome analyses also showed that the expressions of genes emerging since Amniota were notably impacted by bilateral orchidectomy, unilateral orchidectomy, and lumicrine action-interfering treatments; the degree of influence from these treatments varied based on the evolutionary stage beyond Amniota. These findings unveil an evolutional transition of regulated gene expression in the proximal epididymis by two different testis-derived signaling mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiji Kiyozumi
- Japan Science and Technology Agency, 7, Gobancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0076, Japan.
- Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan.
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-2, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
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3
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Kiyozumi D, Ikawa M. Proteolysis in Reproduction: Lessons From Gene-Modified Organism Studies. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:876370. [PMID: 35600599 PMCID: PMC9114714 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.876370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The physiological roles of proteolysis are not limited to degrading unnecessary proteins. Proteolysis plays pivotal roles in various biological processes through cleaving peptide bonds to activate and inactivate proteins including enzymes, transcription factors, and receptors. As a wide range of cellular processes is regulated by proteolysis, abnormalities or dysregulation of such proteolytic processes therefore often cause diseases. Recent genetic studies have clarified the inclusion of proteases and protease inhibitors in various reproductive processes such as development of gonads, generation and activation of gametes, and physical interaction between gametes in various species including yeast, animals, and plants. Such studies not only clarify proteolysis-related factors but the biological processes regulated by proteolysis for successful reproduction. Here the physiological roles of proteases and proteolysis in reproduction will be reviewed based on findings using gene-modified organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiji Kiyozumi
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
- PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Kawaguchi, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
- The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- CREST, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Kawaguchi, Japan
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4
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Brown A, Török M. Functional amyloids in the human body. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2021; 40:127914. [PMID: 33691165 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2021.127914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Amyloids have long been associated with a variety of human degenerative diseases. Discoveries indicate, however, that there are several amyloids that serve functional roles in the human body. These amyloids are involved in a variety of biological processes ranging from storage of peptide hormones to necroptosis of cells. Additionally, there are distinct differences between toxic amyloids and their functional counterparts including kinetics of assembly/disassembly and structural features. This digest article surveys the biological roles of functional amyloids found in the human body, key differences between functional and toxic amyloids, and potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Brown
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 Morrissey Blvd., Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Marianna Török
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 Morrissey Blvd., Boston, MA 02125, USA.
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5
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Buranaamnuay K. The MTT assay application to measure the viability of spermatozoa: A variety of the assay protocols. Open Vet J 2021; 11:251-269. [PMID: 34307082 PMCID: PMC8288735 DOI: 10.5455/ovj.2021.v11.i2.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction assay is one of the methods used to evaluate the viability of sperm. In the assay, a tetrazolium component (MTT) is converted into MTT formazan by some specific enzymes in the viable cells. The amount of formazan product in theory is directly correlated with the percentage of viable sperms. It is quantified by measuring the absorbance using a spectrophotometer. The present article compiles the MTT assays that have been used to determine sperm viability in most animal species and humans. In each assay, other factors apart from the number of viable cells that potentially influence the accuracy and precision of results are stated, such as preparations of sperm and MTT solutions, length and conditions of incubation, and a solubilizing agent as well as the formazan detection method. Also, the strengths and shortcomings of the MTT test comparison with the others are summarized at the end of this article. This information may be useful for prospective researchers deciding to implement this colorimetric method in their experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kakanang Buranaamnuay
- Molecular Agricultural Biosciences Cluster, Institute of Molecular Biosciences (MB), Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
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6
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Cafe SL, Nixon B, Ecroyd H, Martin JH, Skerrett-Byrne DA, Bromfield EG. Proteostasis in the Male and Female Germline: A New Outlook on the Maintenance of Reproductive Health. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:660626. [PMID: 33937261 PMCID: PMC8085359 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.660626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
For fully differentiated, long lived cells the maintenance of protein homeostasis (proteostasis) becomes a crucial determinant of cellular function and viability. Neurons are the most well-known example of this phenomenon where the majority of these cells must survive the entire course of life. However, male and female germ cells are also uniquely dependent on the maintenance of proteostasis to achieve successful fertilization. Oocytes, also long-lived cells, are subjected to prolonged periods of arrest and are largely reliant on the translation of stored mRNAs, accumulated during the growth period, to support meiotic maturation and subsequent embryogenesis. Conversely, sperm cells, while relatively ephemeral, are completely reliant on proteostasis due to the absence of both transcription and translation. Despite these remarkable, cell-specific features there has been little focus on understanding protein homeostasis in reproductive cells and how/whether proteostasis is "reset" during embryogenesis. Here, we seek to capture the momentum of this growing field by highlighting novel findings regarding germline proteostasis and how this knowledge can be used to promote reproductive health. In this review we capture proteostasis in the context of both somatic cell and germline aging and discuss the influence of oxidative stress on protein function. In particular, we highlight the contributions of proteostasis changes to oocyte aging and encourage a focus in this area that may complement the extensive analyses of DNA damage and aneuploidy that have long occupied the oocyte aging field. Moreover, we discuss the influence of common non-enzymatic protein modifications on the stability of proteins in the male germline, how these changes affect sperm function, and how they may be prevented to preserve fertility. Through this review we aim to bring to light a new trajectory for our field and highlight the potential to harness the germ cell's natural proteostasis mechanisms to improve reproductive health. This manuscript will be of interest to those in the fields of proteostasis, aging, male and female gamete reproductive biology, embryogenesis, and life course health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenae L. Cafe
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Heath Ecroyd
- Molecular Horizons, School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacinta H. Martin
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David A. Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G. Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Functional Mammalian Amyloids and Amyloid-Like Proteins. Life (Basel) 2020; 10:life10090156. [PMID: 32825636 PMCID: PMC7555005 DOI: 10.3390/life10090156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyloids are highly ordered fibrous cross-β protein aggregates that are notorious primarily because of association with a variety of incurable human and animal diseases (termed amyloidoses), including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), type 2 diabetes (T2D), and prion diseases. Some amyloid-associated diseases, in particular T2D and AD, are widespread and affect hundreds of millions of people all over the world. However, recently it has become evident that many amyloids, termed “functional amyloids,” are involved in various activities that are beneficial to organisms. Functional amyloids were discovered in diverse taxa, ranging from bacteria to mammals. These amyloids are involved in vital biological functions such as long-term memory, storage of peptide hormones and scaffolding melanin polymerization in animals, substrate attachment, and biofilm formation in bacteria and fungi, etc. Thus, amyloids undoubtedly are playing important roles in biological and pathological processes. This review is focused on functional amyloids in mammals and summarizes approaches used for identifying new potentially amyloidogenic proteins and domains.
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Identification of multiple male reproductive tract-specific proteins that regulate sperm migration through the oviduct in mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:18498-18506. [PMID: 31455729 PMCID: PMC6744855 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1908736116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
While the emergence of gene modification technologies has produced major discoveries in biomedical sciences, the recent development of the CRISPR/Cas9 system has dramatically altered the trajectory of phenotypic analysis in animal models. In this study, we identified male-specific gene clusters (Cst and Pate) and family genes (Gdpd and Lypd) and found specific members to be required for male fertility, especially for sperm fertilizing ability. Our findings support the important roles of these proteins in sperm function and could be used to develop novel infertility treatments as well as contraceptives. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing technology enables researchers to efficiently generate and analyze genetically modified animals. We have taken advantage of this game-changing technology to uncover essential factors for fertility. In this study, we generated knockouts (KOs) of multiple male reproductive organ-specific genes and performed phenotypic screening of these null mutant mice to attempt to identify proteins essential for male fertility. We focused on making large deletions (dels) within 2 gene clusters encoding cystatin (CST) and prostate and testis expressed (PATE) proteins and individual gene mutations in 2 other gene families encoding glycerophosphodiester phosphodiesterase domain (GDPD) containing and lymphocyte antigen 6 (Ly6)/Plaur domain (LYPD) containing proteins. These gene families were chosen because many of the genes demonstrate male reproductive tract-specific expression. Although Gdpd1 and Gdpd4 mutant mice were fertile, disruptions of Cst and Pate gene clusters and Lypd4 resulted in male sterility or severe fertility defects secondary to impaired sperm migration through the oviduct. While absence of the epididymal protein families CST and PATE affect the localization of the sperm membrane protein A disintegrin and metallopeptidase domain 3 (ADAM3), the sperm acrosomal membrane protein LYPD4 regulates sperm fertilizing ability via an ADAM3-independent pathway. Thus, use of CRISPR/Cas9 technologies has allowed us to quickly rule in and rule out proteins required for male fertility and expand our list of male-specific proteins that function in sperm migration through the oviduct.
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Kumar V, Kumar PG, Yadav JK. Impact of semen-derived amyloid (SEVI) on sperm viability and motility: its implication in male reproductive fitness. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2019; 48:659-671. [PMID: 31392382 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-019-01391-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Human semen contains a large number of macromolecules, including proteins/enzymes and carbohydrates, regulating and protecting sperm cells. Proteomic analysis of human seminal fluid led to the discovery of semen amyloids derived from short peptide fragments of the proteins prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) and semenogelin (SG) which are known to play a crucial role in enhancing HIV infection. However, the relevance of their existence in human semen and role in maintaining sperm behavior remains unclear. Distinct physiological, biochemical, and biophysical attributes might cause these amyloids to influence sperm behavior positively or negatively, affecting fertilization or other reproductive processes. We assessed the direct effect of amyloids derived from a PAP248-286 fragment, on sperm motility and viability, which are crucial parameters for assessment of sperm quality in semen. Co-incubation of human sperm with PAP248-286 amyloids at normal physiological concentrations formed in buffer led to significant reduction in sperm viability, though approximately a 10× higher concentration was needed to show a similar effect with amyloid formed in seminal fluid. Both forms of PAP248-286 amyloid also had a significant impact on sperm motility at physiological levels, in agreement with a previous report. Our study suggests that PAP248-286 amyloids can directly influence sperm motility and viability in a concentration-dependent manner. We hypothesise that the direct toxic effect of PAP248-286 amyloid is normally mitigated by other seminal fluid ingredients, but that in pathological conditions, where PAP248-286 concentrations are elevated and it plays a role in determining sperm health and viability, with relevance for male fertility as well as sterility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8 Jaipur-Ajmer Highway, Bandarsindri, Kishangarh, Ajmer, Rajasthan, 305817, India
| | - Pradeep G Kumar
- Molecular Reproduction Division, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thycaud PO, Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695014, India
| | - Jay Kant Yadav
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8 Jaipur-Ajmer Highway, Bandarsindri, Kishangarh, Ajmer, Rajasthan, 305817, India.
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10
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The Functional Mammalian CRES (Cystatin-Related Epididymal Spermatogenic) Amyloid is Antiparallel β-Sheet Rich and Forms a Metastable Oligomer During Assembly. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9210. [PMID: 31239483 PMCID: PMC6593142 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45545-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
An amyloid matrix composed of several family 2 cystatins, including the reproductive cystatin CRES, is an integral structure in the mouse epididymal lumen and has proposed functions in sperm maturation and protection. Understanding how CRES amyloid assembles in vitro may provide clues on how the epididymal amyloid matrix forms in vivo. We therefore purified full-length CRES under nondenaturing conditions and followed its aggregation from monomer to amyloid under conditions that may approximate those in the epididymal lumen. CRES transitioned into a metastable oligomer that was resistant to aggregation and only over extended time formed higher-ordered amyloids. High protein concentrations facilitated oligomer assembly and also were required to maintain the metastable state since following dilution the oligomer was no longer detected. Similar to other amyloid precursors, the formation of CRES amyloids correlated with a loss of α-helix and a gain of β-sheet content. However, CRES is unique in that its amyloids are rich in antiparallel β-sheets instead of the more common parallel β-sheets. Taken together, our studies suggest that early metastable oligomers may serve as building blocks for functional amyloid assembly and further reveal that antiparallel β-sheet-rich amyloids can be functional forms.
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Cornwall GA, Do HQ, Hewetson A, Muthusubramanian A, Myers C. The epididymal amyloid matrix: structure and putative functions. Andrology 2019; 7:603-609. [PMID: 30663236 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously demonstrated the normal mouse epididymal lumen contains a non-pathological amyloid matrix that surrounds spermatozoa and plays important roles in sperm maturation and protection. OBJECTIVE The objective herein was to present a review of this work, including studies showing the amyloid structures of four members of the CRES (cystatin-related epididymal spermatogenic) subgroup are integral and essential components of the amyloid matrix. METHODS We used conformation-dependent reagents that recognize the cross-β-sheet structure characteristic of amyloid, including thioflavin S (ThS), thioflavin T (ThT), anti-amyloid antibodies, and X-ray diffraction, as well as negative-stain transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to visualize amyloid structures in the epididymal lumen. Antibodies that specifically detect each CRES subgroup family member were also used in indirect immunofluorescence analysis. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The epididymal lumen contains an amyloid matrix that surrounds maturing spermatozoa and represents a functional amyloid. Alterations in the structure of the amyloid matrix by the loss of the CRES subgroup members or the overexpression of cystatin C result in epididymal pathologies, including infertility. Preliminary data suggest the epididymal amyloid matrix is structurally and functionally similar to bacterial biofilms. CONCLUSION Together, these results suggest the amyloid matrix serves important roles in epididymal function including sperm maturation and protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A Cornwall
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - H Q Do
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - A Hewetson
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - A Muthusubramanian
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - C Myers
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
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12
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Kim Y, Park Y, Hwang J, Kwack K. Comparative genomic analysis of the human and nematode Caenorhabditis elegans uncovers potential reproductive genes and disease associations in humans. Physiol Genomics 2018; 50:1002-1014. [DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00063.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproduction is an important biological process. However, studies of human reproduction at the molecular level are limited due to the difficulty of performing in vivo studies. Hence, a mechanistic understanding of human reproduction remains still poor. Thus, it is important to use an alternative model organism for mechanistic studies of human reproduction. In this study, we used the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as a model for studying human reproduction and identified 61 human and 535 worm reproductive genes through a combination of comparative genomic and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses. Interestingly, in terms of sex specificity, the number of male-specific genes was greater than the number of female-specific genes. Gene enrichment analysis identified biologically significant processes such as protein localization to cajal bodies/telomeres/nuclear bodies/chromosomes, helicase activity, pyrimidine biosynthesis, and determination of adult lifespan. Regarding the analysis of human reproductive diseases among the identified genes, 10 and 12 genes were identified in the human- and C. elegans-based analyses, respectively. In addition, RNA interference knockdown of a newly identified F52H2.6/DHCR24 gene increased brood size and ovulation/egg-laying rate in C. elegans. Therefore, gene identification, disease associations, and a proof-of-concept experiment using C. elegans will not only provide insights into mechanistic study of human reproduction, but also demonstrate the utility in studying human reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongsoon Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - YoungJoon Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - JoonYeon Hwang
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - KyuBum Kwack
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
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An T, Wang YF, Liu JX, Pan YY, Liu YF, He ZC, Mo FF, Li J, Kang LH, Gu YJ, Lv BH, Gao SH, Jiang GJ. Comparative analysis of proteomes between diabetic and normal human sperm: Insights into the effects of diabetes on male reproduction based on the regulation of mitochondria-related proteins. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 85:7-16. [PMID: 29149484 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tian An
- Diabetes Research Center; Beijing University of Chinese Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Yue-Fen Wang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Jia-Xian Liu
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology; University of Southern California; Los Angeles California
| | - Yan-Yun Pan
- Diabetes Research Center; Beijing University of Chinese Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Yu-Fei Liu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine 3rd Affiliated Hospital; Beijing China
| | - Zhong-Chen He
- Department of Endocrine; Beijing He ping li Hospital; Beijing China
| | - Fang-Fang Mo
- Diabetes Research Center; Beijing University of Chinese Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Endocrine; Beijing He ping li Hospital; Beijing China
| | - Li-Hua Kang
- Department of Endocrine; Beijing He ping li Hospital; Beijing China
| | - Yu-Jie Gu
- Diabetes Research Center; Beijing University of Chinese Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Bo-Han Lv
- Diabetes Research Center; Beijing University of Chinese Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Si-Huan Gao
- Diabetes Research Center; Beijing University of Chinese Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Guang-Jian Jiang
- Diabetes Research Center; Beijing University of Chinese Medicine; Beijing China
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14
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Hewetson A, Do HQ, Myers C, Muthusubramanian A, Sutton RB, Wylie BJ, Cornwall GA. Functional Amyloids in Reproduction. Biomolecules 2017; 7:biom7030046. [PMID: 28661450 PMCID: PMC5618227 DOI: 10.3390/biom7030046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Revised: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloids are traditionally considered pathological protein aggregates that play causative roles in neurodegenerative disease, diabetes and prionopathies. However, increasing evidence indicates that in many biological systems nonpathological amyloids are formed for functional purposes. In this review, we will specifically describe amyloids that carry out biological roles in sexual reproduction including the processes of gametogenesis, germline specification, sperm maturation and fertilization. Several of these functional amyloids are evolutionarily conserved across several taxa, including human, emphasizing the critical role amyloids perform in reproduction. Evidence will also be presented suggesting that, if altered, some functional amyloids may become pathological.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aveline Hewetson
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Hoa Quynh Do
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Caitlyn Myers
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Archana Muthusubramanian
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Roger Bryan Sutton
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Benjamin J Wylie
- Department of Chemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA.
| | - Gail A Cornwall
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
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15
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Rajesh A, Yenugu S. shRNA mediated ablation of prostate and testis expressed (Pate
) messenger RNA results in impaired sperm function and fertility. Andrology 2017; 5:541-547. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Revised: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Rajesh
- Department of Animal Biology; University of Hyderabad; Gachibowli Hyderabad India
| | - S. Yenugu
- Department of Animal Biology; University of Hyderabad; Gachibowli Hyderabad India
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Shah I, Barker J, Naughton DP, Barton SJ, Ashraf SS. HPLC estimation of iothalamate to measure glomerular filtration rate in humans. Chem Cent J 2016; 10:80. [PMID: 28028385 PMCID: PMC5151096 DOI: 10.1186/s13065-016-0227-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is usually determined by estimation of iothalamate (IOT) clearance. We have developed and validated an accurate and robust method for the analysis of IOT in human plasma and urine. The mobile phase consisted of methanol and 50 mM sodium phosphate (10:90; v/v). Flow rate was 1.2 mL/min on a C18 reverse phase column, Synergi-hydro (250 × 4.6 mm) 4 µm 80 Å, with an ultraviolet detector set to 254 nm. Acetonitrile was used for the deproteination and extraction of IOT from human plasma and urine. Precision and accuracy were within 15% for IOT in both plasma and urine. The recoveries of IOT in urine and plasma ranged between 93.14% and 114.74 and 96.04-118.38%, respectively. The linear range for urine and plasma assays were 25-1500 and 1-150 µg/mL respectively. The lower limits of detection were 0.5 µg/mL for both urine and plasma, with no interference from plasma and urine matices. This method has been fully validated according to FDA guidelines and the new HPLC assay has been applied to a new formulation of IOT (Conray™ 43), to calculate GFR in healthy volunteers. The new method is simple, less expensive and it would be instrumental in future clinical and pharmacokinetic studies of iothalamate in kidney patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iltaf Shah
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - James Barker
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey, KT1 2EE UK
| | - Declan P Naughton
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey, KT1 2EE UK
| | - Stephen J Barton
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey, KT1 2EE UK
| | - Syed Salman Ashraf
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
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Jurczak P, Groves P, Szymanska A, Rodziewicz-Motowidlo S. Human cystatin C monomer, dimer, oligomer, and amyloid structures are related to health and disease. FEBS Lett 2016; 590:4192-4201. [DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Revised: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick Groves
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry; University of Gdansk; Poland
| | - Aneta Szymanska
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry; University of Gdansk; Poland
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Xu L, Chen X, Ye H, Hong Q, Xu M, Duan S. Association of four CpG-SNPs in the vascular-related genes with coronary heart disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2015; 70:80-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2015.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 01/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
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19
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Cystatin C is a disease-associated protein subject to multiple regulation. Immunol Cell Biol 2015; 93:442-51. [PMID: 25643616 PMCID: PMC7165929 DOI: 10.1038/icb.2014.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Revised: 12/07/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A protease inhibitor, cystatin C (Cst C), is a secreted cysteine protease inhibitor abundantly expressed in body fluids. Clinically, it is mostly used to measure glomerular filtration rate as a marker for kidney function due to its relatively small molecular weight and easy detection. However, recent findings suggest that Cst C is regulated at both transcriptional and post‐translational levels, and Cst C production from haematopoietic cell lineages contributes significantly to the systematic pools of Cst C. Furthermore, Cst C is directly linked to many pathologic processes through various mechanisms. Thus fluctuation of Cst C levels might have serious clinical implications rather than a mere reflection of kidney functions. Here, we summarize the pathophysiological roles of Cst C dependent and independent on its inhibition of proteases, outline its change of expression by various stimuli, and elucidate the regulatory mechanisms to control this disease‐related protease inhibitor. Finally, we discuss the clinical implications of these findings for translational gains.
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