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Sakurai N, Fujihara Y, Kobayashi K, Ikawa M. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated disruption of lipocalins, Ly6g5b, and Ly6g5c causes male subfertility in mice. Andrology 2024; 12:981-990. [PMID: 36428102 PMCID: PMC10506895 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatozoa become mature and competent for fertilization during transit from the caput epididymis to the cauda epididymis. However, detailed molecular mechanisms of epididymal sperm maturation are still unclear. Here, we focused on multiple epididymis-enriched genes: lipocalin family genes (Lcn5, Lcn6, Lcn8, Lcn9, and Lcn10) and Ly6 family genes (Ly6g5b and Ly6g5c). These genes are evolutionarily conserved in mammals and form clusters on chromosomes 2 and 17 in the mouse, respectively. OBJECTIVE To clarify whether these genes are required for epididymal sperm maturation and acquisition of fertilizing ability, we generated knockout (KO) mice using the CRISPR/Cas9 system and analyzed their phenotype. MATERIALS AND METHODS We generated four lines of KO mice: Lcn9 single KO, the lipocalin family quadruple KO (Lcn5, Lcn6, Lcn8, and Lcn10), quintuple KO (Lcn5, Lcn6, Lcn8, Lcn10, and Lcn9), and double KO of Ly6 family genes (Ly6g5b and Ly6g5c). RESULTS Although the Lcn9 single KO did not affect male fertility, the quadruple KO and quintuple KO male mice were subfertile and mostly infertile, respectively, with a reduced amount of ADAM3, an essential protein for sperm binding to the zona pellucida. Further analysis revealed that the quintuple KO spermatozoa lack the CMTM2A/B that are required for ADAM3 maturation. Intriguingly, Ly6g5b and Ly6g5c double KO male mice also showed subfertility with reduced sperm ADAM3. CONCLUSION These results suggest epididymal secretory proteins are involved in ADAM3 maturation and acquisition of sperm fertilizing ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuyuki Sakurai
- Department of Bioscience and Genetics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, 6-1 Kishibeshinmachi, Suita, Osaka 564-8565, Japan
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Fujihara
- Department of Bioscience and Genetics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, 6-1 Kishibeshinmachi, Suita, Osaka 564-8565, Japan
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kiyonori Kobayashi
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
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Campos-Iglesias D, Montero AA, Rodríguez F, López-Otín C, Freije JM. Loss of ADAM29 does not affect viability and fertility in mice but improves wound healing. iScience 2024; 27:110135. [PMID: 38966569 PMCID: PMC11223086 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
ADAM29 (a disintegrin and metalloprotease domain 29) is a member of the membrane-anchored ADAM family of proteins, which is highly expressed in testis and may mediate different physiological and pathological processes. Although the functions of many ADAM family members have been well characterized, the biological relevance of ADAM29 has remained largely unknown. Here, we report the generation of an Adam29-deficient mouse model to delve deeper into the in vivo functions of this ADAM family member. We show that ADAM29 depletion does not affect mice viability, development, or fertility, but somehow impinges on metabolism and energy expenditure. We also report herein that ADAM29 deficiency leads to an accelerated wound healing process, without affecting cell reprogramming in mouse-derived fibroblasts. Collectively, our findings provide new insights into ADAM29 biological functions, highlighting the importance of non-catalytic ADAM proteases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Campos-Iglesias
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Oviedo, Spain
| | - Alejandro A. Montero
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Francisco Rodríguez
- Unidad de Transgénicos, Bioterio e Imagen Preclínica, Servicios Científico-Técnicos, Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Carlos López-Otín
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida y la Naturaleza, Universidad Nebrija, Madrid, Spain
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Université de Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, INSERM U1138, Paris, France
| | - José M.P. Freije
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Oviedo, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
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Liu MM, Feng XL, Qi C, Zhang SE, Zhang GL. The significance of single-cell transcriptome analysis in epididymis research. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1357370. [PMID: 38577504 PMCID: PMC10991796 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1357370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
As a crucial component of the male reproductive system, the epididymis plays multiple roles, including sperm storage and secretion of nutritive fluids for sperm development and maturation. The acquisition of fertilization capacity by sperm occurs during their transport through the epididymis. Compared with the testis, little has been realized about the importance of the epididymis. However, with the development of molecular biology and single-cell sequencing technology, the importance of the epididymis for male fertility should be reconsidered. Recent studies have revealed that different regions of the epididymis exhibit distinct functions and cell type compositions, which are likely determined by variations in gene expression patterns. In this research, we primarily focused on elucidating the cellular composition and region-specific gene expression patterns within different segments of the epididymis and provided detailed insights into epididymal function in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Meng Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xin-Lei Feng
- Animal Products Quality and Safety Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chao Qi
- Provincial Animal Husbandry Station of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shu-Er Zhang
- Provincial Animal Husbandry Station of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Guo-Liang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
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4
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Kent K, Nozawa K, Sutton C, Daniel F, Ikawa M, Garcia TX, Matzuk MM. CUB domains are not required for OVCH2 function in sperm maturation in the mouse epididymis. Andrology 2024; 12:682-697. [PMID: 37551853 PMCID: PMC10850435 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13508] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovochymase 2 (Ovch2) is an epididymis-specific gene that is required for male fertility. While a multitude of reproductive tract-specific genes required for male fertility have been identified, OVCH2 is thus far the first protein required for male fertility that contains Complement C1r/C1s, Uegf, Bmp1 (CUB) domains located in tandem in the C-terminus of the protein. Identifying the functional significance of this unique domain has implications in better understanding fertility and infertility and as a potential contraceptive target. OBJECTIVE The goals of these studies were to understand the influence and requirement of OVCH2 CUB domains in the localization and functional requirement of OVCH2 in sperm maturation and function. MATERIALS AND METHODS To this end, we performed in vivo localization analysis of OVCH2 and reproductive phenotype analysis of mice containing C-terminal FLAG tag on OVCH2, with either the entire protein intact, or CUB2 or both CUB1 and CUB2 genetically ablated. All mice were generated through the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing approach. RESULTS We found that OVCH2 is specifically expressed in the proximal caput epididymidis, and the absence of CUB2 did not affect this localization pattern. Although the absence of both CUB domains significantly reduced sperm motility and progressive motility, this effect was not manifested in a reduction in fertility over a 6-month period mating trial, which showed no significant differences between control and CUB deletant mice. Further, the absence of one or both CUB domains did not affect reproductive organ structure or sperm morphology. CONCLUSIONS Our studies demonstrate that the CUB domains are not required for fertility in male mice, at least under the normal animal housing conditions our mice were tested in, and suggest that the enzymatic activity of the OVCH2 protease, in the absence of its CUB domains, is sufficient for normal sperm processing in the epididymis. Although our findings do not preclude the possibility that OVCH2 CUB domains are required under a yet-identified stress condition, our findings demonstrate that the most likely region for deleterious mutations in men with idiopathic infertility and the most vulnerable site for inhibition of OVCH2 protein function is in its protease domain, and not its CUB domains. Our findings have implications in the genetic screening of infertile men and the development of a novel non-hormonal male contraceptive by honing in on the more critical region of a functionally required protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kent
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kaori Nozawa
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Courtney Sutton
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Frey Daniel
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Thomas X. Garcia
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, TX 77030, USA
| | - Martin M. Matzuk
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Fukuda E, Hamuro A, Kitada K, Kurihara Y, Tahara M, Misugi T, Nakano A, Tamaue M, Shinomiya S, Yoshida H, Koyama M, Tachibana D. The Impact of Assisted Reproductive Technology on Umbilical Cord Insertion: Increased Risk of Velamentous Cord Insertion in Singleton Pregnancies Conceived through ICSI. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1715. [PMID: 37893433 PMCID: PMC10608747 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Vasa previa (VP) is a significant perinatal complication that can have serious consequences for the fetus/neonate. Velamentous cord insertion (VCI) is a crucial finding in prenatal placental morphology surveillance as it is indicative of comorbid VP. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has been identified as a risk factor for VCI, so identifying risk factors for VCI in ART could improve VP recognition. This study aims to evaluate the displacement of umbilical cord insertion (CI) from the placental center and to examine the relationship between the modes of conception. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study at the Obstetrics Department of Osaka Metropolitan University Hospital in Japan between May 2020 and June 2022. The study included a total of 1102 patients who delivered after 22 weeks of gestation. They were divided into three groups: spontaneous pregnancy, conventional in vitro fertilization (cIVF), and in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI). We recorded patient background information, perinatal complications, perinatal outcomes, and a numerical "displacement score", indicating the degree of separation between umbilical CI and the placental center. Results: The displacement score was significantly higher in the cIVF and IVF/ICSI groups compared with the spontaneous conception group. Additionally, the IVF/ICSI group showed a significantly higher displacement score than the cIVF group. Conclusions: Our study provides the first evidence that the methods of ART can affect the location of umbilical CI on the placental surface. Furthermore, we found that IVF/ICSI may contribute to greater displacement of CI from the placental center.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eriko Fukuda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, 1-4-3 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 5454-8585, Japan;
| | - Akihiro Hamuro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-4-3 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 5454-8585, Japan; (K.K.); (Y.K.); (M.T.); (T.M.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (D.T.)
| | - Kohei Kitada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-4-3 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 5454-8585, Japan; (K.K.); (Y.K.); (M.T.); (T.M.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (D.T.)
| | - Yasushi Kurihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-4-3 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 5454-8585, Japan; (K.K.); (Y.K.); (M.T.); (T.M.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (D.T.)
| | - Mie Tahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-4-3 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 5454-8585, Japan; (K.K.); (Y.K.); (M.T.); (T.M.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (D.T.)
| | - Takuya Misugi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-4-3 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 5454-8585, Japan; (K.K.); (Y.K.); (M.T.); (T.M.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (D.T.)
| | - Akemi Nakano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-4-3 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 5454-8585, Japan; (K.K.); (Y.K.); (M.T.); (T.M.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (D.T.)
| | - Mami Tamaue
- Women’s Health Care Science, Advanced Care Science Field, Graduate School of Nursing, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-5-17 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 5454-8585, Japan;
| | - Sae Shinomiya
- Department of Medical Statistics, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-4-3 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 5454-8585, Japan; (S.S.); (H.Y.)
| | - Hisako Yoshida
- Department of Medical Statistics, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-4-3 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 5454-8585, Japan; (S.S.); (H.Y.)
| | - Masayasu Koyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-4-3 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 5454-8585, Japan; (K.K.); (Y.K.); (M.T.); (T.M.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (D.T.)
| | - Daisuke Tachibana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-4-3 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 5454-8585, Japan; (K.K.); (Y.K.); (M.T.); (T.M.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (D.T.)
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Neila-Montero M, Alvarez M, Riesco MF, Montes-Garrido R, Palacin-Martinez C, Silva-Rodríguez A, Martín-Cano FE, Peña FJ, de Paz P, Anel L, Anel-Lopez L. Ovine fertility by artificial insemination in the breeding season could be affected by intraseasonal variations in ram sperm proteomic profile. Theriogenology 2023; 208:28-42. [PMID: 37290145 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
It is important to note that seasonality could affect ram reproductive parameters, and therefore, fertility results after artificial insemination. In this work, 1) we assessed fertility rates after cervical artificial insemination of 11,805 ewes at the beginning (June 21st to July 20th) and at the end (November 20th to December 21st) of the reproductive season in the Assaf breed for the last four years, and 2) we aimed to identify male factors influencing the different reproductive success obtained depending on the time at the mating season in which ovine artificial insemination was performed. For this purpose, we evaluated certain ram reproductive and ultrasonographical parameters as well as we performed a multiparametric and proteomic sperm analysis of 6-19 rams at two very distant points in the mating season (July as Early Breeding Season -EBS- and November as Late Breeding Season -LBS-). Rutinary assessments carried out in the ovine reproduction centers (testicular volume, libido, sperm production and mass motility) showed non-significant differences (P ≥ 0.05) between both studied times, as well as the ram ultrasonographic evaluation (Resistive and Pulsatility Index as Doppler parameters; and pixels mean gray level, and hypoechoic areas percentage and density as echotexture parameters). However, at level of sperm functionality, although sperm quality appeared non-significantly lower (P ≥ 0.05) in the EBS, we identified a significantly different (P < 0.05) sperm proteomic profile between the seasonality points. The following proteins were identified with the lowest abundance in the EBS with a fold change > 4, a P = 2.40e-07, and a q = 2.23e-06: Fibrous Sheath-Interacting Protein 2, Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase Domain-Containing Protein 20-like, Phosphoinositide-Specific Phospholipase C, Tektin 5, Armadillo Repeat-Containing Protein 12 Isoform X3, Solute Carrier Family 9B1, Radial Spoke Head Protein 3 Homolog, Pro-Interleukin-16, NADH Dehydrogenase [Ubiquinone] 1 Alpha Subcomplex Subunit 8, Testis, Prostate and Placenta-Expressed Protein, and Acyl Carrier Protein Mitochondrial. In conclusion, while our basic analyses on male and sperm quality showed similar results between the beginning and the end of the breeding season, on a proteomic level we detected a lower expression of sperm proteins linked to the energy metabolism, sperm-oocyte interactions, and flagellum structure in the EBS. Probably, this different protein expression could be related to the lower fertility rate of Assaf ewes after cervical artificial insemination at this time. More importantly, sperm proteins can be used as highly effective molecular markers in predicting sperm fertilization ability related to intraseasonal variations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Neila-Montero
- Itra-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, University of León, León, Spain
| | - Mercedes Alvarez
- Itra-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, University of León, León, Spain
| | - Marta F Riesco
- Itra-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain; Cellular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology, University of León, León, Spain.
| | - Rafael Montes-Garrido
- Itra-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, University of León, León, Spain
| | - Cristina Palacin-Martinez
- Itra-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, University of León, León, Spain
| | - Antonio Silva-Rodríguez
- Facility of Innovation and Analysis in Animal Source Foodstuffs, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Francisco E Martín-Cano
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Fernando J Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Paulino de Paz
- Itra-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain; Cellular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology, University of León, León, Spain
| | - Luis Anel
- Itra-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, University of León, León, Spain
| | - Luis Anel-Lopez
- Itra-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain; Anatomy, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, University of León, León, Spain
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7
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Wang Z, Fang K, Wan Y, Yin Y, Li M, Xu K, Li T, Cao Y, Lv Y, Lu G, Liu H, Huang T. TTC6-Mediated Stabilization of the Flagellum Annulus Ensures the Rapid and Directed Motion of Sperm. Cells 2023; 12:2091. [PMID: 37626901 PMCID: PMC10453820 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm motility and structural integrity are essential for successful fertilization in vivo, and any hindrance of the correct assembly of the axoneme and peri-axonemal structures in the sperm flagellum can lead to fertility problems. While there has been considerable advancement in studying diseases related to the flagellum, the underlying mechanisms that control sperm movement are not yet fully understood. In this study, we reveal that the tetratricopeptide repeat protein 6 (Ttc6) gene, expressed mainly in the testes, plays a crucial role in maintaining male fertility in mice. We further demonstrate that the knockout of Ttc6 in mice results in decreased sperm motility and induces an abnormal circular swimming pattern, consequently leading to male subfertility. Morphological analysis showed an atypical hairpin-like appearance of the spermatozoa, and ultrastructural studies showed unsheathed flagella at the juncture between the midpiece and principal piece. Collectively, these findings suggest that TTC6 plays an essential role in maintaining the stability of the annulus region of the sperm flagellum, thus ensuring the swift and directed motion of sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; (Z.W.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (K.X.); (T.L.); (Y.C.); (G.L.); (H.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Kailun Fang
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China;
| | - Yanling Wan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; (Z.W.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (K.X.); (T.L.); (Y.C.); (G.L.); (H.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Yingying Yin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; (Z.W.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (K.X.); (T.L.); (Y.C.); (G.L.); (H.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Mengjing Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; (Z.W.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (K.X.); (T.L.); (Y.C.); (G.L.); (H.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; (Z.W.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (K.X.); (T.L.); (Y.C.); (G.L.); (H.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Tongtong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; (Z.W.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (K.X.); (T.L.); (Y.C.); (G.L.); (H.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Yongzhi Cao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; (Z.W.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (K.X.); (T.L.); (Y.C.); (G.L.); (H.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
- The Model Animal Research Centre, Shandong University, Jinan 250010, China
| | - Yue Lv
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Gang Lu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; (Z.W.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (K.X.); (T.L.); (Y.C.); (G.L.); (H.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Hongbin Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; (Z.W.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (K.X.); (T.L.); (Y.C.); (G.L.); (H.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; (Z.W.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (K.X.); (T.L.); (Y.C.); (G.L.); (H.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
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8
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Li Y, Chen Y, Wu W, Li N, Hua J. MMPs, ADAMs and ADAMTSs are associated with mammalian sperm fate. Theriogenology 2023; 200:147-154. [PMID: 36842259 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Metalloproteinases include matrix metalloproteinases and disintegrin metalloproteinases. They are important members of the ECM degradation and reconstruction process and are associated with tissue development and disease. The ECM is a three-dimensional network of large molecules consisting of a variety of proteins. It is a physical scaffold for organs, and all types of cells can be found within the ECM. The testicle, where sperm are produced, is an organ that is constantly in dynamic flux. Metalloproteinases can regulate testicular tissue development and the maturation of sperm by affecting the ECM. Metalloproteinase disorders can lead to cryptorchidism, azoospermia, poor semen quality and other diseases. As a member of the metalloproteinase family, ADAMTS plays an important role in testicular slippage to the scrotum. ADAM is involved in the fertilization process, and excessive MMP can damage the BTB. In the testis, metalloproteinase stability represents the stability of the extracellular microenvironment in which germ cells are located and is associated with reproductive function. Metalloproteinases have a definite relationship with male reproduction, but the underlying mechanism is still unclear. This paper summarizes the literature on various metalloproteinases in testicular tissue physiology and pathology to elucidate their role in reproductive function and male reproductive mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxiang Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuguang Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenping Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Na Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Jinlian Hua
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
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9
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The stallion sperm acrosome: Considerations from a research and clinical perspective. Theriogenology 2023; 196:121-149. [PMID: 36413868 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
During the fertilization process, the interaction between the sperm and the oocyte is mediated by a process known as acrosomal exocytosis (AE). Although the role of the sperm acrosome on fertilization has been studied extensively over the last 70 years, little is known about the molecular mechanisms that govern acrosomal function, particularly in species other than mice or humans. Even though subfertility due to acrosomal dysfunction is less common in large animals than in humans, the evaluation of sperm acrosomal function should be considered not only as a complementary but a routine test when individuals are selected for breeding potential. This certainly holds true for stallions, which might display lower levels of fertility in the face of "acceptable" sperm quality parameters determined by conventional sperm assays. Nowadays, the use of high throughput technologies such as flow cytometry or mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis is commonplace in the research arena. Such techniques can also be implemented in clinical scenarios of males with "idiopathic" subfertility. The current review focuses on the sperm acrosome, with particular emphasis on the stallion. We aim to describe the physiological events that lead to the acrosome formation within the testis, the role of very specific acrosomal proteins during AE, the methods to study the occurrence of AE under in vitro conditions, and the potential use of molecular biology techniques to discover new markers of acrosomal function and subfertility associated with acrosomal dysfunction in stallions.
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10
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β-Defensin 19/119 mediates sperm chemotaxis and is associated with idiopathic infertility. Cell Rep Med 2022; 3:100825. [PMID: 36513070 PMCID: PMC9797948 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2022.100825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sperm chemotaxis is required for guiding sperm toward the egg. However, the molecular identity of physiological chemoattractant and its involvement in infertility remain elusive. Here, we identify DEFB19/119 (mouse/human orthologs) as a physiological sperm chemoattractant. The epithelia of the female reproductive tract and the cumulus-oocyte complex secrete DEFB19/119 that elicits calcium mobilization via the CatSper channel and induces sperm chemotaxis in capacitated sperm. Manipulating the level of DEFB19 in mice determines the number of sperm arriving at the fertilization site. Importantly, we identify exon mutations in the DEFB119 gene in idiopathic infertile women with low level of DEFB119 in the follicular fluid. The level of DEFB119 correlates with the chemotactic potency of follicular fluid and predicts the infertile outcome with positive correlation. This study reveals the pivotal role of DEFB19/119 in sperm chemotaxis and demonstrates its potential application in the diagnosis of idiopathic infertility.
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11
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Qu H, Khalil RA. Role of ADAM and ADAMTS Disintegrin and Metalloproteinases in Normal Pregnancy and Preeclampsia. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 206:115266. [PMID: 36191626 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Normal pregnancy (NP) involves intricate processes starting with egg fertilization, proceeding to embryo implantation, placentation and gestation, and culminating in parturition. These pregnancy-related processes require marked uteroplacental and vascular remodeling by proteolytic enzymes and metalloproteinases. A disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) and ADAM with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) are members of the zinc-dependent family of proteinases with highly conserved protein structure and sequence homology, which include a pro-domain, and a metalloproteinase, disintegrin and cysteine-rich domain. In NP, ADAMs and ADAMTS regulate sperm-egg fusion, embryo implantation, trophoblast invasion, placental angiogenesis and spiral arteries remodeling through their ectodomain proteolysis of cell surface cytokines, cadherins and growth factors as well as their adhesion with integrins and cell-cell junction proteins. Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious complication of pregnancy characterized by new-onset hypertension (HTN) in pregnancy (HTN-Preg) at or after 20 weeks of gestation, with or without proteinuria. Insufficient trophoblast invasion of the uterine wall, inadequate expansive remodeling of the spiral arteries, reduced uteroplacental perfusion pressure, and placental ischemia/hypoxia are major initiating events in the pathogenesis of PE. Placental ischemia/hypoxia increase the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which lead to aberrant expression/activity of certain ADAMs and ADAMTS. In PE, abnormal expression/activity of specific ADAMs and ADAMTS that function as proteolytic sheddases could alter proangiogenic and growth factors, and promote the release of antiangiogenic factors and inflammatory cytokines into the placenta and maternal circulation leading to generalized inflammation, endothelial cell injury and HTN-Preg, renal injury and proteinuria, and further decreases in uteroplacental blood flow, exaggeration of placental ischemia, and consequently fetal growth restriction. Identifying the role of ADAMs and ADAMTS in NP and PE has led to a better understanding of the underlying molecular and vascular pathways, and advanced the potential for novel biomarkers for prediction and early detection, and new approaches for the management of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongmei Qu
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Raouf A Khalil
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
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12
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Holt WV, Comizzoli P. Conservation Biology and Reproduction in a Time of Developmental Plasticity. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1297. [PMID: 36139136 PMCID: PMC9496186 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this review is to ask whether, and how, principles in conservation biology may need to be revisited in light of new knowledge about the power of epigenetics to alter developmental pathways. Importantly, conservation breeding programmes, used widely by zoological parks and aquariums, may appear in some cases to reduce fitness by decreasing animals' abilities to cope when confronted with the 'wild side' of their natural habitats. Would less comfortable captive conditions lead to the selection of individuals that, despite being adapted to life in a captive environment, be better able to thrive if relocated to a more natural environment? While threatened populations may benefit from advanced reproductive technologies, these may actually induce undesirable epigenetic changes. Thus, there may be inherent risks to the health and welfare of offspring (as is suspected in humans). Advanced breeding technologies, especially those that aim to regenerate the rarest species using stem cell reprogramming and artificial gametes, may also lead to unwanted epigenetic modifications. Current knowledge is still incomplete, and therefore ethical decisions about novel breeding methods remain controversial and difficult to resolve.
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Affiliation(s)
- William V. Holt
- Department of Oncology & Metabolism, The Medical School Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC 20008, USA
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13
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Wang N, Zhang X, Li X, Liu C, Yang M, Han B, Hai C, Su G, Li G, Zhao Y. Cysteine is highly enriched in the canonical N-linked glycosylation motif of bovine spermatozoa N-Glycoproteome. Theriogenology 2022; 184:1-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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14
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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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15
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Chen Y, Liu C, Shang Y, Wang L, Li W, Li G. Adam21 is dispensable for reproductive processes in mice. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12210. [PMID: 34631320 PMCID: PMC8465997 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a group of membrane-anchored proteins, the proteins containing a disintegrin and metalloprotease domain (ADAMs) control many biological processes, especially for male fertility. Mouse Adam21 was previously found to be specifically expressed in the somatic cells and germ cells of testes, but its functional role during spermatogenesis and male reproductive processes is still unknown. METHODS Adam21-null mice were created using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Quantitative real-time PCR was used for analyzing of gene expression. Histological, cytological and immunofluorescence staining were performed to analyze the phenotypes of mouse testis and epididymis. Intracellular lipid droplets (LDs) were detected by Oil red O (ORO) staining and BODIPY staining. Fertility and sperm characteristics were also detected. RESULTS Here, we successfully generated an Adam21 conventional knockout mouse model via CRISPR/Cas9 technology so that we can explore its potential role in male reproduction. We found that male mice lacking Adam21 have normal fertility without any detectable defects in spermatogenesis or sperm motility. Histological analysis of the seminiferous epithelium showed no obvious spermatogenesis difference between Adam21-null and wild-type mice. Cytological analysis revealed no detectable defects in meiotic progression, neither Sertoli cells nor Leydig cells displayed any defect compared with that of the control mice. All these results suggest that Adam21 might not be essential for male fertility in mice, and its potential function still needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongliang Shang
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Liying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guoping Li
- The MOH Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, China
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16
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The human ADAM1A gene is affected by the transcriptional readthrough of MAPKAPK5, which may have evolutionary implications. GENE REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2021.101071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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17
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Shah W, Khan R, Shah B, Dil S, Shi Q. Knockout of the family with sequence similarity 181, member A ( Fam181a) gene does not impair spermatogenesis or male fertility in the mouse. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 33:674-681. [PMID: 34253288 DOI: 10.1071/rd21150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Family with sequence similarity 181 (Fam181 ) is a gene family with two paralogues (Fam181a and Fam181b ) found among vertebrates. Fam181a exhibits dynamic and stage-specific expression during murine embryo development. Furthermore, searching in the National Center for Biotechnology Information database revealed predominant expression of Fam181a in mouse and human testes, implying that it may have essential roles in spermatogenesis. In this study we investigated the invivo function of Fam181a in mouse spermatogenesis and fertility by generating Fam181a -/- mice using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated (Cas) 9 genome editing technology. The resulting Fam181a -/- mice exhibited normal growth and development. In addition, the mice were completely fertile, with no obvious differences in the testis-to-bodyweight ratio, epididymal sperm count or sperm motility compared with wild-type mice. Further examination of testicular and epididymal histology of Fam181a -/- mice found an intact seminiferous tubule structure and the presence of all types of germ cells, from spermatogonia to mature spermatozoa, similar to wild-type littermates. Similarly, analysis of meiotic prophase I progression revealed normal populations of each substage of prophase I in Fam181a +/+ and Fam181a -/- testes, suggesting that this gene is dispensable for male fertility. These negative findings will help avoid research overlap, save time and resources and allow researchers to concentrate on genes that are critical for male fertility and spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wasim Shah
- The First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Ranjha Khan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China; and Corresponding authors
| | - Basit Shah
- The First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Sobia Dil
- The First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Qinghua Shi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China; and Corresponding authors
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18
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Holcomb RJ, Oura S, Nozawa K, Kent K, Yu Z, Robertson MJ, Coarfa C, Matzuk MM, Ikawa M, Garcia TX. The testis-specific serine proteases PRSS44, PRSS46, and PRSS54 are dispensable for male mouse fertility†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:84-91. [PMID: 31403672 PMCID: PMC7013879 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
High-throughput transcriptomics and proteomics approaches have recently identified a large number of germ cell-specific genes with many that remain to be studied through functional genetics approaches. Serine proteases (PRSS) constitute nearly one-third of all proteases, and, in our bioinformatics screens, we identified many that are testis specific. In this study, we chose to focus on Prss44, Prss46, and Prss54, which we confirmed as testis specific in mouse and human. Based on the analysis of developmental expression in the mouse, expression of all four genes is restricted to the late stage of spermatogenesis concomitant with a potential functional role in spermiogenesis, spermiation, or sperm function. To best understand the male reproductive requirement and functional roles of these serine proteases, each gene was individually ablated by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated ES cell or zygote approach. Homozygous deletion mutants for each gene were obtained and analyzed for phenotypic changes. Analyses of testis weights, testis and epididymis histology, sperm morphology, and fertility revealed no significant differences in Prss44, Prss46, and Prss54 knockout mice in comparison to controls. Our results thereby demonstrate that these genes are not required for normal fertility in mice, although do not preclude the possibility that these genes may function in a redundant manner. Elucidating the individual functional requirement or lack thereof of these novel genes is necessary to build a better understanding of the factors underlying spermatogenesis and sperm maturation, which has implications in understanding the etiology of male infertility and the development of male contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Holcomb
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Seiya Oura
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kaori Nozawa
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Katarzyna Kent
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zhifeng Yu
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Matthew J Robertson
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Advanced Technology Cores, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cristian Coarfa
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Thomas X Garcia
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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19
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Xiong W, Shen C, Li C, Zhang X, Ge H, Tang L, Shen Y, Lu S, Zhang H, Han M, Zhang A, Wang J, Wu Y, Fei J, Wang Z. Dissecting the PRSS37 interactome and potential mechanisms leading to ADAM3 loss in PRSS37-null sperm. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:268338. [PMID: 34028541 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.258426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A disintegrin and metalloproteinase 3 (ADAM3) is a sperm membrane protein critical for sperm migration from the uterus into the oviduct and sperm-egg binding in mice. Disruption of PRSS37 results in male infertility concurrent with the absence of mature ADAM3 from cauda epididymal sperm. However, how PRSS37 modulates ADAM3 maturation remains largely unclear. Here, we determine the PRSS37 interactome by GFP immunoprecipitation coupled with mass spectrometry in PRSS37-EGFP knock-in mice. Three molecular chaperones (CLGN, CALR3 and PDILT) and three ADAM proteins (ADAM2, ADAM6B and ADAM4) were identified to be interacting with PRSS37. Coincidently, five of them (except ADAM4) have been reported to interact with ADAM3 precursor and regulate its maturation. We further demonstrated that PRSS37 also interacts directly with ADAM3 precursor and its deficiency impedes the association between PDILT and ADAM3. This could contribute to improper translocation of ADAM3 to the germ cell surface, leading to ADAM3 loss in PRSS37-null mature sperm. The understanding of the maturation mechanisms of pivotal sperm plasma membrane proteins will pave the way toward novel strategies for contraception and the treatment of unexplained male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Chunling Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Chaojie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiaohong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Haoyang Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Lingyun Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yan Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Shunyuan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hongxin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Mi Han
- Reproductive Medical Center, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Aijun Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jinjin Wang
- Shanghai Engineering and Technology Research Center for Model Animals, Shanghai Model Organisms Center, Inc., Shanghai 201318, China
| | - Youbing Wu
- Shanghai Engineering and Technology Research Center for Model Animals, Shanghai Model Organisms Center, Inc., Shanghai 201318, China
| | - Jian Fei
- Shanghai Engineering and Technology Research Center for Model Animals, Shanghai Model Organisms Center, Inc., Shanghai 201318, China
| | - Zhugang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China.,Shanghai Engineering and Technology Research Center for Model Animals, Shanghai Model Organisms Center, Inc., Shanghai 201318, China
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Jung Y, Bang H, Kim YH, Park NE, Park YH, Park C, Lee SR, Lee JW, Song BS, Kim JS, Sim BW, Seol DW, Wee G, Kim S, Kim SU, Kim E. V-Set and Immunoglobulin Domain-Containing 1 (VSIG1), Predominantly Expressed in Testicular Germ Cells, Is Dispensable for Spermatogenesis and Male Fertility in Mice. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11041037. [PMID: 33916888 PMCID: PMC8067554 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
To elucidate the functional role of V-set and immunoglobulin domain-containing 1 (VSIG1) in spermatogenesis and fertilization, we knocked out (KO) VSIG1 in a mouse embryo using CRISPR/Cas9 (Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/CRISPR-associated protein 9) -mediated genome editing. Reverse transcription PCR was performed using cDNA synthesized from VSIG1 KO testis RNA. Although Western blot analysis using a specific antibody to VSIG1 confirmed VSIG1 protein defects in the KO mice, hematoxylin-eosin staining analysis was similar in the KO and wild-type mice. Additionally, computer-assisted sperm analysis and in vitro fertilization experiments were conducted to confirm the activity and fertilization ability of sperm derived from the KO mouse. Mice lacking VSIG1 were viable and had no serious developmental defects. As they got older, the KO mice showed slightly higher weight loss, male mice lacking VSIG1 had functional testes, including normal sperm number and motility, and both male and female mice lacking VSIG1 were fertile. Our results from VSIG1 KO mice suggest that VSIG1 may not play essential roles in spermatogenesis and normal testis development, function, and maintenance. VSIG1 in sperm is dispensable for spermatogenesis and male fertility in mice. As several genes are known to possess slightly different functions depending on the species, the importance and molecular mechanism of VSIG1 in tissues of other species needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yena Jung
- College of Pharmacy, Catholic University of Daegu, Gyeongsan-si 38430, Korea; (Y.J.); (H.B.); (N.-E.P.); (C.P.)
- Futuristic Animal Resource and Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 28116, Korea; (Y.-H.P.); (B.-S.S.); (J.-S.K.); (B.-W.S.); (S.-U.K.)
| | - Hyewon Bang
- College of Pharmacy, Catholic University of Daegu, Gyeongsan-si 38430, Korea; (Y.J.); (H.B.); (N.-E.P.); (C.P.)
| | - Young-Hyun Kim
- National Primate Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 28116, Korea;
| | - Na-Eun Park
- College of Pharmacy, Catholic University of Daegu, Gyeongsan-si 38430, Korea; (Y.J.); (H.B.); (N.-E.P.); (C.P.)
| | - Young-Ho Park
- Futuristic Animal Resource and Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 28116, Korea; (Y.-H.P.); (B.-S.S.); (J.-S.K.); (B.-W.S.); (S.-U.K.)
| | - Chaeli Park
- College of Pharmacy, Catholic University of Daegu, Gyeongsan-si 38430, Korea; (Y.J.); (H.B.); (N.-E.P.); (C.P.)
| | - Sang-Rae Lee
- Laboratory Animal Research Center, School of Medicine, Ajou University, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon 16499, Korea;
| | - Jeong-Woong Lee
- Biotherapeutics Translational Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Deajeon 34141, Korea;
| | - Bong-Seok Song
- Futuristic Animal Resource and Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 28116, Korea; (Y.-H.P.); (B.-S.S.); (J.-S.K.); (B.-W.S.); (S.-U.K.)
| | - Ji-Su Kim
- Futuristic Animal Resource and Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 28116, Korea; (Y.-H.P.); (B.-S.S.); (J.-S.K.); (B.-W.S.); (S.-U.K.)
| | - Bo-Woong Sim
- Futuristic Animal Resource and Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 28116, Korea; (Y.-H.P.); (B.-S.S.); (J.-S.K.); (B.-W.S.); (S.-U.K.)
| | - Dong-Won Seol
- Laboratory Animal Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (DGMIF), Daegu 41061, Korea; (D.-W.S.); (G.W.)
| | - Gabbine Wee
- Laboratory Animal Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (DGMIF), Daegu 41061, Korea; (D.-W.S.); (G.W.)
| | - Sunhyung Kim
- Department of Environmental Horticulture, University of Seoul, Seoul 02504, Korea;
| | - Sun-Uk Kim
- Futuristic Animal Resource and Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 28116, Korea; (Y.-H.P.); (B.-S.S.); (J.-S.K.); (B.-W.S.); (S.-U.K.)
| | - Ekyune Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Catholic University of Daegu, Gyeongsan-si 38430, Korea; (Y.J.); (H.B.); (N.-E.P.); (C.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-53-850-3619; Fax: +82-53-850-3602
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21
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Lee S, Hong SH, Cho C. Normal fertility in male mice lacking ADAM32 with testis-specific expression. Reprod Biol 2020; 20:589-594. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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22
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Gahlay GK, Rajput N. The enigmatic sperm proteins in mammalian fertilization: an overview†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:1171-1185. [PMID: 32761117 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization involves a physical interaction between a sperm and an egg followed by molecular interactions amongst their various cell surface molecules. These interactions are initially mediated on the egg's outermost matrix, zona pellucida (ZP), and then its plasma membrane. To better understand this process, it is pertinent to find the corresponding molecules on sperm that interact with ZP or the egg's plasma membrane. Although currently, we have some knowledge about the binding partners for egg's plasma membrane on sperm, yet the ones involved in an interaction with ZP have remained remarkably elusive. This review provides comprehensive knowledge about the various sperm proteins participating in mammalian fertilization and discusses the possible reasons for not being able to identify the strong sperm surface candidate (s) for ZP adhesion. It also hypothesizes the existence of a multi-protein complex(s), members of which participate in oviduct transport, cumulus penetration, zona adhesion, and adhesion/fusion with the egg's plasma membrane; with some protein(s) having multiple roles during this process. Identification of these proteins is crucial as it improves our understanding of the process and allows us to successfully treat infertility, develop contraceptives, and improve artificial reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gagandeep Kaur Gahlay
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, India
| | - Neha Rajput
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, India
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23
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Saint-Dizier M, Mahé C, Reynaud K, Tsikis G, Mermillod P, Druart X. Sperm interactions with the female reproductive tract: A key for successful fertilization in mammals. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 516:110956. [PMID: 32712384 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sperm migration through the female genital tract is not a quiet journey. Uterine contractions quickly operate a drastic selection, leading to a very restrictive number of sperm reaching the top of uterine horns and finally, provided the presence of key molecules on sperm, the oviduct, where fertilization takes place. During hours and sometimes days before fertilization, subpopulations of spermatozoa interact with dynamic and region-specific maternal components, including soluble proteins, extracellular vesicles and epithelial cells lining the lumen of the female tract. Interactions with uterine and oviductal cells play important roles for sperm survival as they modulate the maternal immune response and allow a transient storage before ovulation. The body of work reported here highlights the importance of sperm interactions with proteins originated from both the uterine and oviductal fluids, as well as hormonal signals around the time of ovulation for sperm acquisition of fertilizing competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Saint-Dizier
- INRAE, UMR PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France; University of Tours, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 37000, Tours, France.
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24
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Wong J, Damdimopoulos A, Damdimopoulou P, Gasperoni JG, Tran SC, Grommen SVH, De Groef B, Dworkin S. Transcriptome analysis of the epididymis from Plag1 deficient mice suggests dysregulation of sperm maturation and extracellular matrix genes. Dev Dyn 2020; 249:1500-1513. [PMID: 32959928 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transcription factor pleomorphic adenoma gene 1 (PLAG1) is required for male fertility. Mice deficient in PLAG1 exhibit decreased sperm motility and abnormal epididymal tubule elongation and coiling, indicating impaired sperm maturation during epididymal transit. However, the downstream transcriptomic profile of the Plag1 knockout (KO; Plag1-/- ) murine epididymis is currently unknown. RESULTS In this study, the PLAG1-dependent epididymal transcriptome was characterised using RNA sequencing. Several genes important for the control of sperm maturation, motility, capacitation and the acrosome reaction were dysregulated in Plag1-/- mice. Surprisingly, several cell proliferation genes were upregulated, and Ki67 analysis indicated that cell proliferation is aberrantly upregulated in the cauda epididymis stroma of Plag1-/- mice. Gene ontology analysis showed an overall upregulation of genes encoding extracellular matrix components, and an overall downregulation of genes encoding metalloendopeptidases in the epididymides from Plag1-/- mice. CONCLUSION Together, these results suggest a defect in the epididymal extracellular matrix in Plag1-/- mice. These results imply that in addition to maintaining epididymal integrity directly, PLAG1 may also regulate several genes involved in the regulation of sperm maturation and capacitation. Moreover, PLAG1 may also be involved in regulating tissue homeostasis and ensuring proper structure and maintenance of the extracellular matrix in the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Wong
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anastasios Damdimopoulos
- Bioinformatics and Expression Analysis core facility, Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pauliina Damdimopoulou
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jemma G Gasperoni
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephanie C Tran
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sylvia V H Grommen
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bert De Groef
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sebastian Dworkin
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
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25
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Yoshitake H, Araki Y. Role of the Glycosylphosphatidylinositol-Anchored Protein TEX101 and Its Related Molecules in Spermatogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186628. [PMID: 32927778 PMCID: PMC7555588 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins (APs) on the plasma membrane are involved in several cellular processes, including sperm functions. Thus far, several GPI-APs have been identified in the testicular germ cells, and there is increasing evidence of their biological significance during fertilization. Among GPI-APs identified in the testis, this review focuses on TEX101, a germ cell-specific GPI-AP that belongs to the lymphocyte antigen 6/urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor superfamily. This molecule was originally identified as a glycoprotein that contained the antigen epitope for a specific monoclonal antibody; it was produced by immunizing female mice with an allogenic testicular homogenate. This review mainly describes the current understanding of the biochemical, morphological, and physiological characteristics of TEX101. Furthermore, future avenues for the investigation of testicular GPI-Aps, including their potential role as regulators of ion channels, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Yoshitake
- Institute for Environmental & Gender-specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0021, Japan;
| | - Yoshihiko Araki
- Institute for Environmental & Gender-specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0021, Japan;
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-47-353-3171; Fax: +81-47-353-3178
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26
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Abstract
The ADAMs family belongs to the transmembrane protein superfamily of zinc-dependent metalloproteases, which consists of multiple domains. These domains have independent but complementary functions that enable them to participate in multiple biological processes. Among them, ADAM9 can not only participate in the degradation of extracellular matrix as a metalloprotease, but also mediate tumor cell adhesion through its deintegrin domain, which is closely related to tumor invasion and metastasis. It is widely expressed in a variety of tumor cells and can affect the proliferation, invasion and metastasis of related cancer cells. We provide our views on current progress, its increasing importance as a strategic treatment goal, and our vision for the future of ADAM9.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Haoyuan
- Department of Clinical Medicine, China Medical University , Liaoning, Shenyang, China
| | - L I Yanshu
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, China Medical University , Liaoning, Shenyang, China
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27
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Zhang H, Li Y, Cui K, Chen X, Shang C, Min W, Jin P, Jiang Z, Shi D, Liu Q, Wang F. Male fertility in Mus musculus requires the activity of TRYX5 in sperm migration into the oviduct. J Cell Physiol 2020; 235:6058-6072. [PMID: 32020604 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Nowadays, abnormal loss of serine proteases appears very frequently in male patients with unexplained sterility. In fact, many testis-specific serine proteases, the largest family among the four protease families implicated in murine spermatogenesis, are indispensable for reproduction. In the present study, we demonstrate that the previously uncharacterized testis-specific serine protease TRYX5 (1700074P13Rik) is required for male fertility in mice. Tryx5-/- male mice are sterile, yet they have normal spermatogenesis and normal sperm parameters. In vivo fertilization experiments showed that the fertilization rate of Tryx5-/- sperm was almost zero. Sperm counting and analysis of paraffin sections of oviducts revealed that Tryx5-/- sperm were unable to migrate into the oviduct, which is likely the cause of the observed infertility of the Tryx5-/- male mice. Importantly, we also found that there was almost no mature ADAM3 present in Tryx5-/- sperm and almost no ADAM3 precursor in Tryx5-/- elongated spermatids of S13-16 stage, even though testes of Tryx5-/- and wild type mice had the same amount of the total precursor ADAM3. Collectively, our results demonstrate that Tryx5 is essential for male fertility in mice and suggest that TRYX5 functions in the stability or localization of ADAM3 precursor in elongated spermatids S13-16 stage, thereby regulating the ability of sperm to migrate from the uterus into the ampulla of the oviduct, the site of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haihang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yushan Li
- College of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Kuiqing Cui
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiu Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, HeZe University, HeZe, Shandong, China
| | - Cuiling Shang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affifiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Wanping Min
- National Institute of Biological Sciences (NIBS), Beijing, China
| | - Peng Jin
- National Institute of Biological Sciences (NIBS), Beijing, China
| | - Zhaodi Jiang
- National Institute of Biological Sciences (NIBS), Beijing, China
| | - Deshun Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Qingyou Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Fengchao Wang
- National Institute of Biological Sciences (NIBS), Beijing, China
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28
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The testis-specifically expressed Dpep3 is not essential for male fertility in mice. Gene 2019; 711:143925. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2019.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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29
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Okabe M. Sperm-egg interaction and fertilization: past, present, and future. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:134-146. [PMID: 29462236 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Fifty years have passed since the findings of capacitation and acrosome reaction. These discoveries and the extensive effort of researchers led to the success of in vitro fertilization, which has become a top choice for patients at infertility clinics today. The effort to understand the mechanism of fertilization is ongoing, but the small number of eggs and similarly small quantity of spermatozoa continue to hinder biochemical experiments. The emergence of transgenic animals and gene disruption techniques has had a significant effect on fertilization research. Factors considered important in the early years were shown not to be essential and were replaced by newly found proteins. However, there is much about sperm-egg interaction which remains to be learned before we can outline the mechanism of fertilization. In fact, our understanding of sperm-egg interaction is entering a new stage. Progress in transgenic spermatozoa helped us to observe the behavior of spermatozoa in vivo and/or at the moment of sperm-egg fusion. These advancements are discussed together with the paradigm-shifting research in related fields to help us picture the direction which fertilization research may take in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Okabe
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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30
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Xiong W, Wang Z, Shen C. An update of the regulatory factors of sperm migration from the uterus into the oviduct by genetically manipulated mice. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:935-955. [PMID: 31131960 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental MedicineShanghai Rui‐Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
- School of Life Sciences and BiochemistryShanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai China
| | - Zhugang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental MedicineShanghai Rui‐Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | - Chunling Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental MedicineShanghai Rui‐Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
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31
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Voronina VA, Harris FM, Schmahl J, Galligan C, Oristian D, Zamfirova R, Gong G, Bai Y, Fury W, Rajamani S, Walls JR, Poueymirou WT, Esau L, Gale NW, Auerbach W, Murphy AJ, Macdonald LE. Deletion of Adam6 in Mus musculus leads to male subfertility and deficits in sperm ascent into the oviduct. Biol Reprod 2018; 100:686-696. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Faith M Harris
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York, USA
| | | | - Caryn Galligan
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Guochun Gong
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York, USA
| | - Yu Bai
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York, USA
| | - Wen Fury
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York, USA
| | | | | | | | - Lakeisha Esau
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York, USA
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32
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Schiza C, Korbakis D, Panteleli E, Jarvi K, Drabovich AP, Diamandis EP. Discovery of a Human Testis-specific Protein Complex TEX101-DPEP3 and Selection of Its Disrupting Antibodies. Mol Cell Proteomics 2018; 17:2480-2495. [PMID: 30097533 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.ra118.000749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
TEX101 is a testis-specific protein expressed exclusively in male germ cells and is a validated biomarker of male infertility. Studies in mice suggest that TEX101 is a cell-surface chaperone which regulates, through protein-protein interactions, the maturation of proteins involved in spermatozoa transit and oocyte binding. Male TEX101-null mice are sterile. Here, we identified by co-immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry the interactome of human TEX101 in testicular tissues and spermatozoa. The testis-specific cell-surface dipeptidase 3 (DPEP3) emerged as the top hit. We further validated the TEX101-DPEP3 complex by using hybrid immunoassays. Combinations of antibodies recognizing different epitopes of TEX101 and DPEP3 facilitated development of a simple immunoassay to screen for disruptors of TEX101-DPEP3 complex. As a proof-of-a-concept, we demonstrated that anti-TEX101 antibody T4 disrupted the native TEX101-DPEP3 complex. Disrupting antibodies may be used to study the human TEX101-DPEP3 complex, and to develop modulators for male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Schiza
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Dimitrios Korbakis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Efstratia Panteleli
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Keith Jarvi
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada; Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Andrei P Drabovich
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada; Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Eleftherios P Diamandis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada; Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada; Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.
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33
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Serine protease PRSS55 is crucial for male mouse fertility via affecting sperm migration and sperm-egg binding. Cell Mol Life Sci 2018; 75:4371-4384. [PMID: 30032357 PMCID: PMC6208766 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2878-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Testis-specific PRSS55 is a highly conserved chymotrypsin-like serine protease among mammalian species. So far, the physiological function of PRSS55 remains unknown. Here, we show that PRSS55 is a GPI-anchored membrane protein, specifically expressed in adult mouse testis and mainly observed in the luminal side of seminiferous tubules and sperm acrosome. Mice deficient for Prss55 develop male infertile with normal reproduction-related parameters observed. Interestingly, in vivo fertilization rate of Prss55−/− males is dramatically decreased, possibly due to incapable migration of Prss55−/− sperm from uterus into oviduct. However, in vitro fertilization rate has no difference between two genotypes although Prss55−/− sperm presents defective recognition/binding to zona-intact or zona-free oocytes. Further study reveals that mature ADAM3 is almost undetectable in Prss55−/− sperm, while precursor ADAM3 remains unchanged in the testis. However, it is shown that ADAM3 has no interaction with PRSS55 by immunoprecipitation with anti-PRSS55 antibody. The expression levels of several proteins known to be related to the observed phenotypes remain comparable between wt and Prss55−/− mice. Moreover, we found that Prss55 deficiency has no effect on PRSS37 or vice versa albeit two mutant males share almost the same phenotypes. Microarray analysis reveals a total of 72 differentially expressed genes in Prss55−/− testis, most of which are associated with cellular membrane and organelle organization, protein transport and complex assembly, and response to stimulus and signaling. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that PRSS55 plays vital roles in regulating male fertility of mice, including in vivo sperm migration and in vitro sperm–egg interaction, possibly by affecting the maturation of ADAM3 in sperm and the expression of multiple genes in testis.
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Isotani A, Matsumura T, Ogawa M, Tanaka T, Yamagata K, Ikawa M, Okabe M. A delayed sperm penetration of cumulus layers by disruption of acrosin gene in rats. Biol Reprod 2018; 97:61-68. [PMID: 28859281 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Acrosin, the trypsin-like serine protease in the sperm acrosome, was long viewed as a key enzyme required for zona pellucida penetration to fertilize eggs. However, gene disruption experiments in mice surprisingly showed that acrosin-disrupted males were fertile. Thus, the acrosin was considered to be not an essential enzyme for fertilization in mice. However, the involvement of acrosin in fertilization has been suggested in various species such as rat, bull, and pig. Moreover, it has been reported that serine protease (including acrosin) activity in mice is significantly weaker compared to other species, including rats. We analyzed the role of acrosin by disrupting the rat acrosin gene. It was found that, unlike in mice, acrosin was almost the sole source of serine protease in rat spermatozoa. Nevertheless, the acrosin-disrupted males were not infertile. However, the litter size from acrosin-disrupted males was decreased compared to heterozygous mutant rats. Further investigation using an in vitro fertilization system revealed that the acrosin-disrupted spermatozoa possessed an equal ability to penetrate the zona pellucida with wild-type spermatozoa, but the cumulus cell dispersal was slower compared to wild-type and heterozygous spermatozoa. This delay was presumed to be the cause of the small litter size of acrosin-disrupted male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayako Isotani
- Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara, Japan
| | - Takafumi Matsumura
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masaki Ogawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takahiro Tanaka
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazuo Yamagata
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, KINDAI University, 930 Nishimitani, Kinokawa, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masaru Okabe
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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35
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Gervasi MG, Visconti PE. Chang's meaning of capacitation: A molecular perspective. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 83:860-874. [PMID: 27256723 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Dr. Min Chue Chang's contributions to the field of reproductive biology set the stage for the development of the contraceptive pill and in vitro fertilization. Throughout his publications, Dr. Chang was also able to transmit his view of the fertilization process in ways that organized research for newer generations of reproductive biologists. Particularly relevant for the achievement of in vitro fertilization in mammals was the discovery that the sperm required a period of residence in the female tract to become fertilization-competent; Dr. Chang and Dr. Austin, in Australia, independently reported this process, now known as sperm capacitation. This review discusses Dr. Chang's views on capacitation, and puts them in the context of recent advances in the understanding of the molecular basis of this process. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 860-874, 2016 © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gracia Gervasi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, ISB, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, ISB, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts.
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36
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Fujihara Y, Miyata H, Ikawa M. Factors controlling sperm migration through the oviduct revealed by gene-modified mouse models. Exp Anim 2018; 67:91-104. [PMID: 29353867 PMCID: PMC5955741 DOI: 10.1538/expanim.17-0153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization is comprised of many steps including sperm survival in the
uterus, sperm migration in the female reproductive tract, physiological and morphological
changes to the spermatozoa, and sperm-egg interaction in the oviduct. In
vitro studies have revealed essential factors for these fertilization steps for
over half a century. However, the molecular mechanism of fertilization has recently been
revised by the emergence of genetically modified animals. Here, we focus on essential
factors for sperm fertilizing ability and describe recent advances in our knowledge of the
mechanisms of mammalian fertilization, especially of sperm migration from the uterus into
the oviduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitaka Fujihara
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Miyata
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.,The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
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37
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Cormier N, McGlone JJ, Leszyk J, Hardy DM. Immunocontraceptive target repertoire defined by systematic identification of sperm membrane alloantigens in a single species. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0190891. [PMID: 29342175 PMCID: PMC5771590 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm competence in animal fertilization requires the collective activities of numerous sperm-specific proteins that are typically alloimmunogenic in females. Consequently, sperm membrane alloantigens are potential targets for contraceptives that act by blocking the proteins' functions in gamete interactions. Here we used a targeted proteomics approach to identify the major alloantigens in swine sperm membranes and lipid rafts, and thereby systematically defined the repertoire of these sperm-specific proteins in a single species. Gilts with high alloantibody reactivity to proteins in sperm membranes or lipid rafts produced fewer offspring (73% decrease) than adjuvant-only or nonimmune control animals. Alloantisera recognized more than 20 potentially unique sperm membrane proteins and five sperm lipid raft proteins resolved on two-dimensional immunoblots with or without prior enrichment by anion exchange chromatography. Dominant sperm membrane alloantigens identified by mass spectrometry included the ADAMs fertilin α, fertilin ß, and cyritestin. Less abundant alloantigens included ATP synthase F1 β subunit, myo-inositol monophosphatase-1, and zymogen granule membrane glycoprotein-2. Immunodominant sperm lipid raft alloantigens included SAMP14, lymphocyte antigen 6K, and the epididymal sperm protein E12. Of the fifteen unique membrane alloantigens identified, eleven were known sperm-specific proteins with uncertain functions in fertilization, and four were not previously suspected to exist as sperm-specific isoforms. De novo sequences of tryptic peptides from sperm membrane alloantigen "M6" displayed no evident homology to known proteins, so is a newly discovered sperm-specific gene product in swine. We conclude that alloimmunizing gilts with sperm membranes or lipid rafts evokes formation of antibodies to a relatively small number of dominant alloantigens that include known and novel sperm-specific proteins with possible functions in fertilization and potential utility as targets for immunocontraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaly Cormier
- Department of Cell Biology & Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America
| | - John J. McGlone
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America
| | - John Leszyk
- Proteomic and Mass Spectrometry Facility and Department of Biochemistry & Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Daniel M. Hardy
- Department of Cell Biology & Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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38
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Ishimoto K, Gaffney EA. Mechanical tuning of mammalian sperm behaviour by hyperactivation, rheology and substrate adhesion: a numerical exploration. J R Soc Interface 2017; 13:rsif.2016.0633. [PMID: 27852807 PMCID: PMC5134015 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2016.0633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The great mammalian sperm race encounters numerous microenvironments to which sperm must adapt and a fundamental sperm response is the change in its waveform owing to both fluid rheology and capacitation, with the latter associated with a hyperactivated beat pattern. Hence, in this modelling study, we examine the effect of different flagellar waveforms for sperm behaviour near adhesive substrates, which are representative of epithelia in female tract sperm reservoirs and the zona pellucida (ZP), which surrounds the mammalian egg. On contact with an adhesive surface, virtual sperm rotate to become nearly tangential with the surface, as generally observed. Hyperactivation also induces many effects: sperm exert greater forces on the substrate and periodically tug way from adhesions under circumstances reflecting binding at sperm reservoirs, but with extensive fluid elasticity, as found in the cumulus surrounding the ZP, sperm instead continually push into the substrate. Furthermore, with weak adhesion, rheological media increase the duration hyperactivated sperm remain in the proximity of a substrate. More generally, such results predict that changes owing to both hyperactivation of the flagellar waveform and the rheology of the surrounding medium provide a means of tuning sperm behaviour near, or attached to, adhesive substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Ishimoto
- The Hakubi Center for Advanced Research, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan .,Research Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan
| | - Eamonn A Gaffney
- Wolfson Centre for Mathematical Biology, Mathematical Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK
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Carapito C, Duek P, Macron C, Seffals M, Rondel K, Delalande F, Lindskog C, Fréour T, Vandenbrouck Y, Lane L, Pineau C. Validating Missing Proteins in Human Sperm Cells by Targeted Mass-Spectrometry- and Antibody-based Methods. J Proteome Res 2017; 16:4340-4351. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.7b00374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Carapito
- Laboratoire
de Spectrométrie de Masse BioOrganique (LSMBO), IPHC, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS UMR7178, 25 Rue Becquerel, Strasbourg F-67087, France
| | - Paula Duek
- CALIPHO
Group, SIB-Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, CMU, rue Michel-Servet
1, CH-1211 Geneva
4, Switzerland
| | - Charlotte Macron
- Laboratoire
de Spectrométrie de Masse BioOrganique (LSMBO), IPHC, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS UMR7178, 25 Rue Becquerel, Strasbourg F-67087, France
| | - Marine Seffals
- H2P2
Core facility, UMS BioSit, University of Rennes 1, Rennes F-35040, France
| | - Karine Rondel
- Protim,
Inserm U1085, Irset, Campus de Beaulieu, Rennes F-35042, France
| | - François Delalande
- Laboratoire
de Spectrométrie de Masse BioOrganique (LSMBO), IPHC, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS UMR7178, 25 Rue Becquerel, Strasbourg F-67087, France
| | - Cecilia Lindskog
- Department
of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Thomas Fréour
- Service de
Médecine de la Reproduction, CHU de Nantes, 38 boulevard
Jean Monnet, Nantes F-44093, France
- Inserm UMR1064, Nantes F-44093, France
| | - Yves Vandenbrouck
- CEA, DRF, BIG,
Laboratoire de Biologie à Grande Echelle, 17, rue des Martyrs, Grenoble F-38054, France
- Inserm U1038, Grenoble F-38054, France
- Grenoble-Alpes University, Grenoble F-38054, France
| | - Lydie Lane
- CALIPHO
Group, SIB-Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, CMU, rue Michel-Servet
1, CH-1211 Geneva
4, Switzerland
- Department
of Human Protein Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1, rue Michel-Servet, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Charles Pineau
- Protim,
Inserm U1085, Irset, Campus de Beaulieu, Rennes F-35042, France
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40
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Sabetian S, Shamsir MS. Deficiency in Sperm-Egg Protein Interaction as a Major Cause of Fertilization Failure. J Membr Biol 2017; 250:133-144. [PMID: 28280854 DOI: 10.1007/s00232-017-9954-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Complete elucidation of fertilization process at molecular level is one of the unresolved challenges in sexual reproduction studies, and understanding the molecular mechanism is crucial in overcoming difficulties in infertility and unsuccessful in vitro fertilization. Sperm-oocyte interaction is one of the most remarkable events in fertilization process, and deficiency in protein-protein interactions which mediate this interaction is a major cause of unexplained infertility. Due to detection of how the various defects of sperm-oocyte interaction can affect fertilization failure, different experimental methods have been applied. This review summarizes the current understanding of sperm-egg interaction mechanism during fertilization and also accumulates the different types of sperm-egg interaction abnormalities and their association with infertility. Several detection approaches regarding sperm-egg protein interactions and the associated defects are reviewed in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soudabeh Sabetian
- Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Faculty of Bioscience & Medical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Johor, Malaysia.
| | - Mohd Shahir Shamsir
- Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Faculty of Bioscience & Medical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Johor, Malaysia.
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41
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The control of male fertility by spermatid-specific factors: searching for contraceptive targets from spermatozoon's head to tail. Cell Death Dis 2016; 7:e2472. [PMID: 27831554 PMCID: PMC5260884 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2016.344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2016] [Revised: 09/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility due to abnormal spermatozoa has been reported in both animals and humans, but its pathogenic causes, including genetic abnormalities, remain largely unknown. On the other hand, contraceptive options for men are limited, and a specific, reversible and safe method of male contraception has been a long-standing quest in medicine. Some progress has recently been made in exploring the effects of spermatid-specifical genetic factors in controlling male fertility. A comprehensive search of PubMed for articles and reviews published in English before July 2016 was carried out using the search terms 'spermiogenesis failure', 'globozoospermia', 'spermatid-specific', 'acrosome', 'infertile', 'manchette', 'sperm connecting piece', 'sperm annulus', 'sperm ADAMs', 'flagellar abnormalities', 'sperm motility loss', 'sperm ion exchanger' and 'contraceptive targets'. Importantly, we have opted to focus on articles regarding spermatid-specific factors. Genetic studies to define the structure and physiology of sperm have shown that spermatozoa appear to be one of the most promising contraceptive targets. Here we summarize how these spermatid-specific factors regulate spermiogenesis and categorize them according to their localization and function from spermatid head to tail (e.g., acrosome, manchette, head-tail conjunction, annulus, principal piece of tail). In addition, we emphatically introduce small-molecule contraceptives, such as BRDT and PPP3CC/PPP3R2, which are currently being developed to target spermatogenic-specific proteins. We suggest that blocking the differentiation of haploid germ cells, which rarely affects early spermatogenic cell types and the testicular microenvironment, is a better choice than spermatogenic-specific proteins. The studies described here provide valuable information regarding the genetic and molecular defects causing male mouse infertility to improve our understanding of the importance of spermatid-specific factors in controlling fertility. Although a male contraceptive 'pill' is still many years away, research into the production of new small-molecule contraceptives targeting spermatid-specific proteins is the right avenue.
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42
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Abstract
The members of the ADAM (a disintegrin and metalloprotease) family are membrane-anchored multi-domain proteins that play prominent roles in male reproduction. ADAM2, which was one of the first identified ADAMs, is the best studied ADAM in reproduction. In the male germ cells of mice, ADAM2 and other ADAMs form complexes that contribute to sperm-sperm adhesion, sperm-egg interactions, and the migration of sperm in the female reproductive tract. Here, we generated specific antibodies against mouse and human ADAM2, and investigated various features of ADAM2 in mice, monkeys and humans. We found that the cytoplasmic domain of ADAM2 might enable the differential association of this protein with other ADAMs in mice. Western blot analysis with the anti-human ADAM2 antibodies showed that ADAM2 is present in the testis and sperm of monkeys. Monkey ADAM2 was found to associate with chaperone proteins in testis. In humans, we identified ADAM2 as a 100-kDa protein in the testis, but failed to detect it in sperm. This is surprising given the results in mice and monkeys, but it is consistent with the failure of ADAM2 identification in the previous proteomic analyses of human sperm. These findings suggest that the reproductive functions of ADAM2 differ between humans and mice. Our protein analysis showed the presence of potential ADAM2 complexes involving yet-unknown proteins in human testis. Taken together, our results provide new information regarding the characteristics of ADAM2 in mammalian species, including humans.
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43
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Choi H, Jin S, Kwon JT, Kim J, Jeong J, Kim J, Jeon S, Park ZY, Jung KJ, Park K, Cho C. Characterization of Mammalian ADAM2 and Its Absence from Human Sperm. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0158321. [PMID: 27341348 PMCID: PMC4920383 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0158321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The members of the ADAM (a disintegrin and metalloprotease) family are membrane-anchored multi-domain proteins that play prominent roles in male reproduction. ADAM2, which was one of the first identified ADAMs, is the best studied ADAM in reproduction. In the male germ cells of mice, ADAM2 and other ADAMs form complexes that contribute to sperm-sperm adhesion, sperm-egg interactions, and the migration of sperm in the female reproductive tract. Here, we generated specific antibodies against mouse and human ADAM2, and investigated various features of ADAM2 in mice, monkeys and humans. We found that the cytoplasmic domain of ADAM2 might enable the differential association of this protein with other ADAMs in mice. Western blot analysis with the anti-human ADAM2 antibodies showed that ADAM2 is present in the testis and sperm of monkeys. Monkey ADAM2 was found to associate with chaperone proteins in testis. In humans, we identified ADAM2 as a 100-kDa protein in the testis, but failed to detect it in sperm. This is surprising given the results in mice and monkeys, but it is consistent with the failure of ADAM2 identification in the previous proteomic analyses of human sperm. These findings suggest that the reproductive functions of ADAM2 differ between humans and mice. Our protein analysis showed the presence of potential ADAM2 complexes involving yet-unknown proteins in human testis. Taken together, our results provide new information regarding the characteristics of ADAM2 in mammalian species, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heejin Choi
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Sora Jin
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Jun Tae Kwon
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Jihye Kim
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Juri Jeong
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Jaehwan Kim
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Suyeon Jeon
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Zee Yong Park
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Kang-Jin Jung
- The National Primate Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Kwangsung Park
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Chunghee Cho
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
- * E-mail:
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44
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Biogenesis of sperm acrosome is regulated by pre-mRNA alternative splicing of Acrbp in the mouse. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:E3696-705. [PMID: 27303034 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1522333113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Proper biogenesis of a sperm-specific organelle, the acrosome, is essential for gamete interaction. An acrosomal matrix protein, ACRBP, is known as a proacrosin-binding protein. In mice, two forms of ACRBP, wild-type ACRBP-W and variant ACRBP-V5, are generated by pre-mRNA alternative splicing of Acrbp Here, we demonstrate the functional roles of these two ACRBP proteins. ACRBP-null male mice lacking both proteins showed a severely reduced fertility, because of malformation of the acrosome. Notably, ACRBP-null spermatids failed to form a large acrosomal granule, leading to the fragmented structure of the acrosome. The acrosome malformation was rescued by transgenic expression of ACRBP-V5 in ACRBP-null spermatids. Moreover, exogenously expressed ACRBP-W blocked autoactivation of proacrosin in the acrosome. Thus, ACRBP-V5 functions in the formation and configuration of the acrosomal granule during early spermiogenesis. The major function of ACRBP-W is to retain the inactive status of proacrosin in the acrosome until acrosomal exocytosis.
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45
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Krauchunas AR, Marcello MR, Singson A. The molecular complexity of fertilization: Introducing the concept of a fertilization synapse. Mol Reprod Dev 2016; 83:376-86. [PMID: 26970099 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The details of sperm-egg interactions remain a relative mystery despite many decades of research. As new molecular complexities are being discovered, we need to revise the framework in which we think about fertilization. As such, we propose that fertilization involves the formation of a synapse between the sperm and egg. A cellular synapse is a structure that mediates cell adhesion, signaling, and secretion through specialized zones of interaction and polarity. In this review, we draw parallels between the immune synapse and fertilization, and argue that we should consider sperm-egg recognition, binding, and fusion in the context of a "fertilization synapse." Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 376-386, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber R Krauchunas
- Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | | | - Andrew Singson
- Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
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46
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A Disintegrin and Metalloprotease (ADAM): Historical Overview of Their Functions. Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:122. [PMID: 27120619 PMCID: PMC4848645 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8040122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of the first disintegrin protein from snake venom and the following identification of a mammalian membrane-anchored metalloprotease-disintegrin implicated in fertilization, almost three decades of studies have identified additional members of these families and several biochemical mechanisms regulating their expression and activity in the cell. Most importantly, new in vivo functions have been recognized for these proteins including cell partitioning during development, modulation of inflammatory reactions, and development of cancers. In this review, we will overview the a disintegrin and metalloprotease (ADAM) family of proteases highlighting some of the major research achievements in the analysis of ADAMs' function that have underscored the importance of these proteins in physiological and pathological processes over the years.
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47
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Identification of an anti-sperm auto-monoclonal antibody (Ts4)-recognized molecule in the mouse sperm acrosomal region and its inhibitory effect on fertilization in vitro. J Reprod Immunol 2016; 115:6-13. [PMID: 27064211 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2015] [Revised: 03/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We previously established an anti-mouse sperm auto-monoclonal antibody, Ts4, which shows immunoreactivity against several kinds of glycoproteins in the acrosomal region of epididymal spermatozoa, testicular germ cells, and early embryo, via binding to an epitope containing a common N-linked oligosaccharide (OS) chain on the molecules. In mice, we have already demonstrated that the OS chain in the epitope for Ts4 is a fucosylated agalacto-complex-type biantennary glycan carrying bisecting N-acetylglucosamine. In the testis, one of the specific OS chain-conjugated molecules is TEX101, a germ cell-marker glycoprotein, which is expressed in spermatocytes, spermatids, and testicular spermatozoa, but not in epididymal spermatozoa. In this study, we identified a Ts4-reactive glycoprotein in mouse cauda epididymal sperm. An immunoprecipitation method together with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry showed that alpha-N-acetylglucosaminidase (Naglu; a degradation enzyme of heparan sulfate) is one of the glycoproteins recognized by Ts4 in the epididymal spermatozoa. Western blot and immunohistochemical analyses revealed that mouse Naglu exists in two forms (82 and 77kDa) and is expressed in the acrosomal region and the flagellum of cauda epididymal sperm. Of the two Naglu-forms expressed in sperm, Ts4 immunoreacted against only the 82-kDa form located on the acrosomal region. The Ts4 mAb and anti-Naglu pAb negatively affected mouse fertilization in vitro. In addition, Ts4 inhibited sperm acrosome reaction induced by heparan sulfate. The Ts4-recognized fucosylated agalactobiantennary complex-type glycan with bisecting N-acetylglucosamine and Naglu on cauda epididymal spermatozoa may play a role in the process of fertilization.
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Abstract
Capacitation and the acrosome reaction are key phenomena in mammalian fertilization. These phenomena were found more than 60 years ago. However, fundamental questions regarding the nature of capacitation and the timing of the acrosome reaction remain unsolved. Factors were postulated over time, but as their roles were not verified by gene-disruption experiments, widely accepted notions concerning the mechanism of fertilization are facing modifications. Today, although in vitro fertilization systems remain our central research tool, the importance of in vivo observations must be revisited. Here, primarily focusing on our own research, I summarize how in vivo observations using gene-manipulated animals have elucidated new concepts in the mechanisms of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Okabe
- Center for Genetic Analysis for Biological Responses, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Yamadaoka 3-1, Suita, Osaka 565 0871, Japan
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Mouse sperm begin to undergo acrosomal exocytosis in the upper isthmus of the oviduct. Dev Biol 2016; 411:172-182. [PMID: 26872876 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2016.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Revised: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence demonstrated that most fertilizing mouse sperm undergo acrosomal exocytosis (AE) before binding to the zona pellucida of the eggs. However, the sites where fertilizing sperm could initiate AE and what stimuli trigger it remain unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine physiological sites of AE by using double transgenic mouse sperm, which carried EGFP in the acrosome and DsRed2 fluorescence in mitochondria. Using live imaging of sperm during in vitro fertilization of cumulus-oocyte complexes, it was observed that most sperm did not undergo AE. Thus, the occurrence of AE within the female reproductive tract was evaluated in the physiological context where this process occurs. Most sperm in the lower segments of the oviduct were acrosome-intact; however, a significant number of sperm that reached the upper isthmus had undergone AE. In the ampulla, only 5% of the sperm were acrosome-intact. These results support our previous observations that most of mouse sperm do not initiate AE close to or on the ZP, and further demonstrate that a significant proportion of sperm initiate AE in the upper segments of the oviductal isthmus.
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Holt W, Fazeli A. Sperm selection in the female mammalian reproductive tract. Focus on the oviduct: Hypotheses, mechanisms, and new opportunities. Theriogenology 2016; 85:105-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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