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Toyota K, Akashi H, Ishikawa M, Yamaguchi K, Shigenobu S, Sato T, Lange A, Tyler CR, Iguchi T, Miyagawa S. Comparative analysis of gonadal transcriptomes between turtle and alligator identifies common molecular cues activated during the temperature-sensitive period for sex determination. Gene 2023; 888:147763. [PMID: 37666375 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147763] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
The mode of sex determination in vertebrates can be categorized as genotypic or environmental. In the case of genotypic sex determination (GSD), the sexual fate of an organism is determined by the chromosome composition with some having dominant genes, named sex-determining genes, that drive the sex phenotypes. By contrast, many reptiles exhibit environmental sex determination (ESD), whereby environmental stimuli drive sex determination, and most notably temperature. To date, temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) has been found in most turtles, some lizards, and all crocodylians, but commonalities in the controlling processes are not well established. Recent innovative sequencing technology has enabled investigations into gonadal transcriptomic profiles during temperature-sensitive periods (TSP) in various TSD species which can help elucidate the controlling mechanisms. In this study, we conducted a time-course analysis of the gonadal transcriptome during the male-producing temperature (26℃) of the Reeve's turtle (Chinese three-keeled pond turtle) Mauremys reevesii. We then compared the transcriptome profiles for this turtle species during the TSP with that for the American alligator Alligator mississippiensis to identify conserved reptilian TSD-related genes. Our transcriptome-based findings provide an opportunity to retrieve the candidate molecular cues that are activated during TSP and compare these target responses between TSD and GSD turtle species, and between TSD species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Toyota
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, 6-3-1 Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 125-8585, Japan; Noto Marine Laboratory, Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Ogi, Noto-cho, Ishikawa 927-0553, Japan; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Kanagawa University, 2946 Tsuchiya, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa 259-1293, Japan.
| | - Hiroshi Akashi
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, 6-3-1 Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 125-8585, Japan; Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan
| | - Momoka Ishikawa
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, 6-3-1 Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 125-8585, Japan
| | - Katsushi Yamaguchi
- Trans-Omics Facility, National Institute for Basic Biology, 38 Nishigonaka, Myodaiji-cho, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Shuji Shigenobu
- Trans-Omics Facility, National Institute for Basic Biology, 38 Nishigonaka, Myodaiji-cho, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Tomomi Sato
- Graduate School of Nanobioscience, Yokohama City University, 22-2 Seto, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 236-0027, Japan
| | - Anke Lange
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Charles R Tyler
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Taisen Iguchi
- Noto Marine Laboratory, Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Ogi, Noto-cho, Ishikawa 927-0553, Japan; Graduate School of Nanobioscience, Yokohama City University, 22-2 Seto, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 236-0027, Japan
| | - Shinichi Miyagawa
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, 6-3-1 Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 125-8585, Japan.
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Whiley PAF, Luu MCM, O’Donnell L, Handelsman DJ, Loveland KL. Testis exposure to unopposed/elevated activin A in utero affects somatic and germ cells and alters steroid levels mimicking phthalate exposure. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1234712. [PMID: 37727456 PMCID: PMC10505732 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1234712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Correct fetal testis development underpins adult male fertility, and TGFβ superfamily ligands control key aspects of this process. Transcripts encoding one such ligand, activin A, are upregulated in testes after sex determination and remain high until after birth. Testis development requires activin signalling; mice lacking activin A (Inhba KO) display altered somatic and germ cell proliferation, disrupted cord elongation and altered steroid synthesis. In human pregnancies with pre-eclampsia, the foetus is inappropriately exposed to elevated activin A. To learn how this affects testis development, we examined mice lacking the potent activin inhibitor, inhibin, (Inha KO) at E13.5, E15.5 and PND0. At E13.5, testes appeared similar in WT and KO littermates, however E15.5 Inha KO testes displayed two germline phenotypes: (1) multinucleated germ cells within cords, and (2) germ cells outside of cords, both of which are documented following in utero exposure to endocrine disrupting phthalates in rodents. Quantitation of Sertoli and germ cells in Inha KO (modelling elevated activin A) and Inhba KO (low activin A) testes using immunofluorescence demonstrated activin A bioactivity determines the Sertoli/germ cell ratio. The 50% reduction in gonocytes in Inha KO testes at birth indicates unopposed activin A has a profound impact on embryonic germ cells. Whole testis RNAseq on Inha KO mice revealed most transcripts affected at E13.5 were present in Leydig cells and associated with steroid biosynthesis/metabolism. In agreement, androstenedione (A4), testosterone (T), and the A4:T ratio were reduced in Inha KO testes at E17.5, confirming unopposed activin A disrupts testicular steroid production. E15.5 testes cultured with either activin A and/or mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) generated common histological and transcriptional outcomes affecting germline and Leydig cells, recapitulating the phenotype observed in Inha KO testes. Cultures with activin A and MEHP together provided evidence of common targets. Lastly, this study extends previous work focussed on the Inhba KO model to produce a signature of activin A bioactivity in the fetal testis. These outcomes show the potential for elevated activin A signalling to replicate some aspects of fetal phthalate exposure prior to the masculinization programming window, influencing fetal testis growth and increasing the risk of testicular dysgenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penny A. F. Whiley
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael C. M. Luu
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Liza O’Donnell
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Kate L. Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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3
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Whiley PAF, O'Donnell L, Moody SC, Handelsman DJ, Young JC, Richards EA, Almstrup K, Western PS, Loveland KL. Activin A Determines Steroid Levels and Composition in the Fetal Testis. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5818588. [PMID: 32274496 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Activin A promotes fetal mouse testis development, including driving Sertoli cell proliferation and cord morphogenesis, but its mechanisms of action are undefined. We performed ribonucleic acid sequencing (RNA-seq) on testicular somatic cells from fetal activin A-deficient mice (Inhba KO) and wildtype littermates at embryonic day (E) E13.5 and E15.5. Analysis of whole gonads provided validation, and cultures with a pathway inhibitor discerned acute from chronic effects of altered activin A bioactivity. Activin A deficiency predominantly affects the Sertoli cell transcriptome. New candidate targets include Minar1, Sel1l3, Vnn1, Sfrp4, Masp1, Nell1, Tthy1 and Prss12. Importantly, the testosterone (T) biosynthetic enzymes present in fetal Sertoli cells, Hsd17b1 and Hsd17b3, were identified as activin-responsive. Activin-deficient testes contained elevated androstenedione (A4), displayed an Inhba gene dose-dependent A4/T ratio, and contained 11-keto androgens. The remarkable accumulation of lipid droplets in both Sertoli and germ cells at E15.5 indicated impaired lipid metabolism in the absence of activin A. This demonstrated for the first time that activin A acts on Sertoli cells to determine local steroid production during fetal testis development. These outcomes reveal how compounds that perturb fetal steroidogenesis can function through cell-specific mechanisms and can indicate how altered activin levels in utero may impact testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penny A F Whiley
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Liza O'Donnell
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah C Moody
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Julia C Young
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Elizabeth A Richards
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Patrick S Western
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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4
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Soleimanzadeh A, Mohammadnejad L, Ahmadi A. Ameliorative effect of Allium sativum extract on busulfan-induced oxidative stress in mice sperm. VETERINARY RESEARCH FORUM : AN INTERNATIONAL QUARTERLY JOURNAL 2018; 9:265-271. [PMID: 30357081 PMCID: PMC6198159 DOI: 10.30466/vrf.2018.32079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Busulfan is known to cause several adverse effects including reproductive toxicity in humans. Garlic (Allium sativum), a widely distributed medicinal plant, is highly regarded for its medicinal activities including antioxidant property. This study was conducted to assess whether garlic extract could serve as protective agents against testicular toxicity during busulfan treatment in a mice model. Seventy-two adult male mice were randomly divided into nine groups. In groups 1,2 and 3, distilled water, busulfan, and dimethyl sulfoxide and in the treatment groups hydro-alcoholic extract of garlic was administered orally at different doses per day (groups 4, 5 and 6; 200, 400, 800 mg kg-1 respectively). Groups 7, 8 and 9 were treated with the extract (200, 400 and 800 mg kg-1, respectively) plus busulfan. Following euthanasia, blood samples and epididymal sperm were collected. The busulfan-treated group showed significant decreases in sperm quality parameters, and serum levels of testosterone, LH and FSH was observed in the busulfan-treated mice. In addition, the TAC levels and antioxidant enzymes activities were reduced and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were increased in the busulfan-treated mice. Notably, garlic extract co-administration caused a considerable recovery in sperm quality parameters, TAC levels, antioxidant enzymes activities, hormonal changes and MDA level. Based on our results, garlic has antioxidant effects against busulfan-induced testicular damages in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Soleimanzadeh
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Leila Mohammadnejad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Abbas Ahmadi
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
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5
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Piprek RP, Kolasa M, Podkowa D, Kloc M, Kubiak JZ. Transcriptional profiling validates involvement of extracellular matrix and proteinases genes in mouse gonad development. Mech Dev 2017; 149:9-19. [PMID: 29129619 DOI: 10.1016/j.mod.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 10/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) plays an important scaffolding role in the establishment of organs structure during development. A great number of ECM components and enzymes (proteinases) regulating formation/degradation of ECM during organ remodeling have been identified. In order to study the role of ECM in the mouse gonad development, especially during sexual differentiation of the gonads when the structure of the testis and ovary becomes established, we performed a global analysis of transcriptome in three main cell types of developing gonad (supporting, interstitial/stromal and germ cells) using transgenic mice, cell sorting and microarray. The genes coding for ECM components were mostly expressed in two gonadal cell lines: supporting and interstitial/stromal cells. These two cell lines differed in the expression pattern of ECM components, which suggests that ECM components might be crucial for differentiation of gonad compartments (for example testis cords vs. interstitium in XY gonads). Collagens and proteoglycans coding genes were mainly expressed in the interstitium/stromal cells, while non-collagen glycoproteins and matricellular coding genes were expressed in both cell lines. We also analyzed the expression of genes encoding ECM enzymes that are secreted to the ECM where they remodel the scaffolding of developing organs. We found that the ECM enzyme genes were also mostly expressed in supporting and interstitial/stromal cells. In contrast to the somatic cells, the germ cells expressed only limited number of ECM components and enzymes. This suggests that the germ line cells do not participate, or play only a minor role, in the sculpting of the gonad structure via ECM synthesis and remodeling. Importantly, the supporting cells showed the sex-specific pattern of expression of ECM components. However, the pattern of expression of most ECM enzymes in the somatic and germ cells is independent on the sex of the gonad. Further studies are required to elucidate the exact roles of identified genes in sexual differentiation of the gonads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafal P Piprek
- Department of Comparative Anatomy, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Michal Kolasa
- Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Dagmara Podkowa
- Department of Comparative Anatomy, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Kloc
- The Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA; The Houston Methodist Hospital, Department of Surgery, Houston, TX, USA; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Genetics, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jacek Z Kubiak
- CNRS, UMR 6290, Institute of Genetics and Development of Rennes, Cell Cycle Group, F-35043, France; Université Rennes 1, Faculty of Medicine, F-35043 Rennes, France; Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Kozielska 4, 01-163 Warsaw, Poland
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6
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Reglodi D, Cseh S, Somoskoi B, Fulop BD, Szentleleky E, Szegeczki V, Kovacs A, Varga A, Kiss P, Hashimoto H, Tamas A, Bardosi A, Manavalan S, Bako E, Zakany R, Juhasz T. Disturbed spermatogenic signaling in pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide-deficient mice. Reproduction 2017; 155:129-139. [PMID: 29101268 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PACAP is a neuropeptide with diverse functions in various organs, including reproductive system. It is present in the testis in high concentrations, and in addition to the stage-specific expression within the seminiferous tubules, PACAP affects spermatogenesis and the functions of Leydig and Sertoli cells. Mice lacking endogenous PACAP show reduced fertility, but the possibility of abnormalities in spermatogenic signaling has not yet been investigated. Therefore, we performed a detailed morphological analysis of spermatozoa, sperm motility and investigated signaling pathways that play a role during spermatogenesis in knockout mice. No significant alterations were found in testicular morphology or motility of sperm in homozygous and heterozygous PACAP-deficient mice in spite of the moderately increased number of severely damaged sperms. However, we found robust changes in mRNA and/or protein expression of several factors that play an important role in spermatogenesis. Protein kinase A expression was markedly reduced, while downstream phospho-ERK and p38 were elevated in knockout animals. Expression of major transcription factors, such as Sox9 and phospho-Sox9, was decreased, while that of Sox10, as a redundant factor, was increased in PACAP-deficient mice. The reduced phospho-Sox9 expression was partly due to increased expression and activity of phosphatase PP2A in knockout mice. Targets of Sox transcription factors, such as collagen type IV, were reduced in knockout mice. In summary, our results show that lack of PACAP leads to disturbed signaling in spermatogenesis, which could be a factor responsible for reduced fertility in PACAP knockout mice, and further support the role of PACAP in reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Reglodi
- Department of AnatomyMTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - S Cseh
- Department and Clinic of ReproductionUniversity of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - B Somoskoi
- Department and Clinic of ReproductionUniversity of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - B D Fulop
- Department of AnatomyMTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - E Szentleleky
- Department of AnatomyHistology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - V Szegeczki
- Department of AnatomyHistology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - A Kovacs
- Department of AnatomyMTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - A Varga
- Department of AnatomyMTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - P Kiss
- Department of AnatomyMTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - H Hashimoto
- Laboratory of Molecular NeuropharmacologyGraduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Molecular Research Center for Children's Mental DevelopmentUnited Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Chiba University and University of Fukui, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Division of BioscienceInstitute for Datability Science, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - A Tamas
- Department of AnatomyMTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - A Bardosi
- MVZ für HistologieZytologie und Molekulare Diagnostik, Trier, Germany
| | - S Manavalan
- Department of Basic SciencesNational University of Health Sciences, Pinellas Park, Florida, USA
| | - E Bako
- Cell Biology and Signalling Research Group of the Hungarian Academy of SciencesDepartment of Medical Chemistry, Research Centre for Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - R Zakany
- Department of AnatomyHistology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - T Juhasz
- Department of AnatomyHistology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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7
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Liu T, Guo Y, Yan L, Sun B, Zheng P, Zhao X. Depletion of endogenous germ cells in tree shrews in preparation for spermatogonial transplantation. Exp Ther Med 2017; 14:2349-2354. [PMID: 28962166 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2017.4767] [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: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
To achieve successful spermatogonial transplantation, endogenous germ cells must be depleted in recipient animals to allow donor germ cells to colonize efficiently. Busulfan is commonly used for the depletion of endogenous germ cells in recipient males. However, the optimal dose of busulfan is species-specific, and the optimal dose in tree shrews is yet to be determined. The current study aimed to determine the optimal dose of busulfan for effective suppression of endogenous spermatogenesis in tree shrews. Different doses (15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 mg/kg) of busulfan were injected into tree shrews intraperitoneally. Survival rates of the different treatment groups were calculated at 2 weeks and body weights were measured at 4, 6, 8, 10 and 28 weeks post-busulfan treatment. The testes were also removed and weighed at 4, 6, 8, 10 and 28 weeks post-treatment, and the cross and longitude diameters of the testes and diameters of the seminiferous tubules were measured and histologically evaluated. It was observed that there were no significant differences in the survival rates between the 15-35 mg/kg treatment groups and the control group (P>0.05), while the survival rate of the 40 mg/kg treatment group significantly decreased relative to the control group (P<0.05) and the survival rate of the 45 mg/kg treatment group was 0% (P<0.05 vs. control). In addition, the weight and diameters of the testes, diameters of the seminiferous tubules and proportion of normal type tubules in the 40 mg/kg group significantly decreased over 4-10 weeks relative to the control group (P<0.05), though gradually recovered with time. At 28 weeks, the recovery was significant relative to 4 weeks (P<0.05). Similarly, histological analysis indicted that recovery of abnormal tubules was delayed in the 40 mg/kg group relative to the lower dose groups as the 40 mg/kg dose tree shrews had more tubules with no spermatogenesis compared with the lower dose group at the same time points. These data indicate that a busulfan dose of 40 mg/kg is optimal for the depletion of endogenous germ cells in tree shrews. This dose led to maximum suppression of endogenous spermatogenesis while maintaining an acceptable survival rate of >50% of the lethal dose of busulfan for tree shrews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Liu
- School of Life Science, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230039, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, P.R. China
| | - Ying Guo
- School of Life Science, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230039, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, P.R. China
| | - Lanzhen Yan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, P.R. China.,Kunming Primate Research Center, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, P.R. China
| | - Bin Sun
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, P.R. China
| | - Ping Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, P.R. China.,Kunming Primate Research Center, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, P.R. China
| | - Xudong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, P.R. China.,Kunming Primate Research Center, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, P.R. China
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8
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Wang B, Qi T, Chen SQ, Ye L, Huang ZS, Li H. RFX1 maintains testis cord integrity by regulating the expression of Itga6 in male mouse embryos. Mol Reprod Dev 2016; 83:606-14. [PMID: 27228460 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Formation and maintenance of testis cords during embryogenesis are essential for establishing testicular structure and function in adults. At least five genes (Wt1, Dhh, Sox8/Sox9, and Dax1) appear to be required for the maintenance of testis cord integrity in mice. Here, we report that RFX1 is specifically expressed in fetal Sertoli cells. Mouse embryos conditionally deficient in Rfx1 (Rfx1(flox/flox) , Amh-Cre) possessed disrupted testis cords, as the basal lamina lining was fragmented or completely absent in some areas of the testes. Spermatogenesis was blocked, leading to complete infertility. Expression of integrin alpha-6 was significantly decreased in Rfx1-deficient testes compared to control testes; indeed, luciferase and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays indicated that RFX1 directly activates transcription of Itga6 (the gene coding for integrin alpha-6). Taken together, RFX1 transcriptionally targets Itga6 in Sertoli cells, thereby, helping maintain the integrity of the basal lamina during testis cord development. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 606-614, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Wang
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guang Zhou, China
| | - Tao Qi
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guang Zhou, China
| | - Shi-Qin Chen
- Assisted Reproductive Center, General Hospital of Guangzhou Military Command, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Ye
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guang Zhou, China
| | - Zhan-Sen Huang
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guang Zhou, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guang Zhou, China
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9
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Chi H, Chun K, Son H, Kim J, Kim G, Roh S. Effect of genistein administration on the recovery of spermatogenesis in the busulfan-treated rat testis. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2013; 40:60-6. [PMID: 23875161 PMCID: PMC3714430 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2013.40.2.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2013] [Revised: 05/21/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Impairment of spermatogenesis has been identified as an inevitable side effect of cancer treatment. Although estrogen treatment stimulates spermatogenic recovery from the impaired spermatogenesis by suppressing the intra-testicular testosterone (ITT) level, side effects of estrogen are still major impediments to its clinical application in humans. Soybeans are rich in genistein, which is a phytoestrogen that binds to estrogen receptors and has an estrogenic effect. We investigated the effects of genistein administration on ITT levels, testis weight, and recovery of spermatogenesis in rats treated with a chemotherapeutic agent, busulfan. Methods Busulfan was administered intraperitoneally to rats, and then a GnRH agonist was injected subcutaneously into the back, or genistein was administered orally. Results The weight of the testes was significantly reduced by the treatment with busulfan. The testis weight was partially restored after busulfan treatment by additional treatment with either the GnRH agonist or genistein. Busulfan also induced atrophy of a high percentage of the seminiferous tubules, but this percentage was decreased by additional treatment with either the GnRH agonist or genistein. Treatment with genistein was effective at suppressing and maintaining ITT levels comparable to that in the GnRH agonist group. Conclusion Genistein effectively suppressed ITT levels and stimulated the recovery of spermatogenesis in rats treated with a chemotherapeutic drug. This suggests that genistein may be a substitute for estrogens, for helping humans to recover fertility after cancer therapy without the risk of side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heejun Chi
- i-Dream Research Center, MizMedi Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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10
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Huh MI, Jung JC. Expression of matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) in the testes of growing and adult chicken. Acta Histochem 2013; 115:475-80. [PMID: 23218521 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2012.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2012] [Revised: 10/31/2012] [Accepted: 11/01/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Although several matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been implicated in testis development, the presence of MMP-13 protein has not been directly substantiated in the male avian gonads. In this study, we examined the expression patterns of MMP-13 and MMP inhibitors, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2, in immature (4weeks), pre-pubertal (16weeks), and mature (1year) chicken testes. Using RT-PCR analysis, we observed that MMP-13 mRNA was expressed in immature testis. In Western blot analysis, the expression level of MMP-13 protein peaked in the immature testes during marked tissue remodeling, whereas it gradually decreased during testis maturation. High expression levels of TIMP-1 (34-kDa) and TIMP-2 (55-kDa) were detected only in immature and pre-pubertal testes and not in adult testis. Four different forms of TIMP-2 protein were differentially detected in the testes of growing and adult chicken. Using immunohistochemistry we localized both secreted and intracellular forms of MMP-13, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 proteins. These proteins were temporally and spatially distributed in growing and adult testes, and all their expression levels were similar to the expression profile of Western blot results. These findings suggest that age-related changes of MMP-13 with balance of TIMPs act in concert to effect the controlled testicular remodeling and maturation.
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11
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Chen SR, Chen M, Wang XN, Zhang J, Wen Q, Ji SY, Zheng QS, Gao F, Liu YX. The Wilms tumor gene, Wt1, maintains testicular cord integrity by regulating the expression of Col4a1 and Col4a2. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:56. [PMID: 23325811 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.105379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Wt1 is specifically expressed in Sertoli cells in the developing testis. A previous study has demonstrated that Wt1 plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of testicular cords. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. In this study, we found that the laminin-positive basal lamina lining the testicular cords was fragmented and completely absent in some areas of Wt1(-/flox); Amh-Cre testes, indicating that the testicular cord disruption can be attributed to the breakdown of the basement membrane. To explore the molecular mechanism underlying this effect, we examined the expression of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) and testicular cord basal lamina components by real-time RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunostaining. Compared with control testes, the expression of CAMs (such as E-cadherin, N-cadherin, claudin11, occludin, beta-catenin, and ZO-1) was not obviously altered in Wt1(-/flox); Amh-Cre testes. However, the mRNA level of Col4a1 and Col4a2 was significantly decreased in Wt1-deficient testes. Immunostaining assays further confirmed that the collagen IV protein levels were dramatically reduced in Wt1(-/flox); Amh-Cre testes. Moreover, luciferase and point mutation analyses revealed that the Col4a1 and Col4a2 promoters were additively transactivated by WT1 and SOX9. Given this finding and previous results showing that SOX9 expression declines rapidly after Wt1 deletion, we conclude that the loss of Wt1 in Sertoli cells results in the downregulation of the important basal lamina component, which in turn causes the breakdown of the basal lamina and subsequent testicular cord disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Ren Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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12
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Georg I, Barrionuevo F, Wiech T, Scherer G. Sox9 and Sox8 are required for basal lamina integrity of testis cords and for suppression of FOXL2 during embryonic testis development in mice. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:99. [PMID: 22837482 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.101907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The sex-determining gene Sry and its target gene Sox9 initiate the early steps of testis development in mammals. Of the related Sox genes Sox8, Sox9, and Sox10, all expressed during Sertoli cell differentiation, only inactivation of Sox9 before the sex determination stage at Embryonic Day 11.5 (E11.5) causes XY sex reversal, while Sox9 inactivation after this stage has no effect on testis cord differentiation. We have previously shown that both Sox9 and Sox8 are essential for maintaining testicular function in post-E14.0 Sertoli cells. To gain insight into the molecular and cellular processes underlying the abnormal development of Sox9 and Sox8 mutant testes, we performed a detailed developmental study of embryonic and neonatal stages. We observe a progressive disruption of the basal lamina surrounding the testis cords that starts at E17.5 and already at E15.5 reduced expression levels of collagen IV, collagen IXa3 and testatin, structural components of the basal lamina, and the extracellular matrix transcriptional regulator Scleraxis. Lineage tracing reveals that mutant Sertoli cells delaminate from testis cords and are present as isolated cells between remaining cords. Also, Sox10 expression is strongly reduced in the absence of Sox9 and/or Sox8. Finally, we document increasing expression of the ovarian marker FOXL2 in mutant cords starting at E15.5, indicating progressive transdifferentiation of mutant Sertoli cells. This study shows that Sox9 and Sox8 maintain integrity of the basal lamina to prevent testis cord disintegration and that both factors actively suppress the ovarian program during early testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ina Georg
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Freiburg, Germany
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13
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Notini AJ, McClive PJ, Meachem SJ, van den Bergen JA, Western PS, Gustin SE, Harley VR, Koopman P, Sinclair AH. Redd1 is a novel marker of testis development but is not required for normal male reproduction. Sex Dev 2012; 6:223-30. [PMID: 22797524 DOI: 10.1159/000339723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In an effort to identify novel candidate genes involved in testis determination, we previously used suppression subtraction hybridisation PCR on male and female whole embryonic (12.0-12.5 days post coitum) mouse gonads. One gene to emerge from our screen was Redd1. In the current study, we demonstrate by whole-mount in situ hybridisation that Redd1 is differentially expressed in the developing mouse gonad at the time of sex determination, with higher expression in testis than ovary. Furthermore, Redd1 expression was first detected as Sry expression peaks, immediately prior to morphological sex determination, suggesting a potential role for Redd1 during testis development. To determine the functional importance of this gene during testis development, we generated Redd1-deficient mice. Morphologically, Redd1-deficient mice were indistinguishable from control littermates and showed normal fertility. Our results show that Redd1 alone is not required for testis development or fertility in mice. The lack of a male reproductive phenotype in Redd1 mice may be due to functional compensation by the related gene Redd2.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Notini
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute and Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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14
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Zhao X, Du ZQ, Rothschild M. An association study of 20 candidate genes with cryptorchidism in Siberian Husky dogs. J Anim Breed Genet 2010; 127:327-31. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0388.2010.00859.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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15
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Zhao X, Du ZQ, Vukasinovic N, Rodriguez F, Clutter AC, Rothschild MF. Association of HOXA10, ZFPM2, and MMP2 genes with scrotal hernias evaluated via biological candidate gene analyses in pigs. Am J Vet Res 2009; 70:1006-12. [PMID: 19645582 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.70.8.1006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the associations between 14 biological candidate genes and scrotal hernias in pigs. ANIMALS 1,534 Pietrain-based pigs, including 692 individuals from 298 pig families and 842 male pigs without family information. PROCEDURES Pigs were classified as affected or unaffected for scrotal hernias. Single nucleotide polymorphisms of candidate genes were analyzed via PCR assays and genotyped. Statistical analyses were performed on the family-trio and the case-control data. RESULTS 2 genes involved in collagen metabolism (homeobox A10 [HOXA10] and matrix metalloproteinases 2 [MMP2]) and 1 gene encoding zinc finger protein multitype 2 (ZFPM2, important in the development of diaphragmatic hernia) were significantly associated with hernias. Pigs with these genotypes had high odds of developing scrotal hernias in the case and control groups (2 ZFPM2 variants: odds ratio, 4.3 [95% confidence interval, 2.78 to 6.64] and 4.45[95%confidenceinterval,2.88to6.88]). Anothergene, collagentypeII A 1(COL2A1),was potentially involved in hernia development. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE HOXA10, ZFPM2, MMP2, and COL2A1 could have important roles in pig hernia development and potentially be useful for marker-assisted selection in the pig industry. IMPACT FOR HUMAN MEDICINE Pigs are used for the study of many human diseases because of their physiologic similarities. Genes associated with scrotal hernias in this study may be directly used in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying this defect in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Zhao
- Department of Animal Science and Center for Integrated Animal Genomics, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
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16
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Matoba S, Hiramatsu R, Kanai-Azuma M, Tsunekawa N, Harikae K, Kawakami H, Kurohmaru M, Kanai Y. Establishment of testis-specific SOX9 activation requires high-glucose metabolism in mouse sex differentiation. Dev Biol 2008; 324:76-87. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2008.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2008] [Revised: 08/25/2008] [Accepted: 09/04/2008] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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17
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Mizukami T, Kanai Y, Fujisawa M, Kanai-Azuma M, Kurohmaru M, Hayashi Y. Five azacytidine, a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor, specifically inhibits testicular cord formation and Sertoli cell differentiation in vitro. Mol Reprod Dev 2008; 75:1002-10. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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18
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Oh HJ, Kido T, Lau YFC. PIAS1 interacts with and represses SOX9 transactivation activity. Mol Reprod Dev 2007; 74:1446-55. [PMID: 17440973 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
SOX9 is a transcription factor that harbors a HMG box and plays critical roles in developmental processes including sex determination and chondrogenesis. Currently the regulation of its molecular activity is not well characterized. In the present study, we have identified PIAS1 as a regulator for SOX9 activity. Using the GST pull-down, co-immunoprecipitation, and co-localization methods in tissue culture cells and mouse embryonic tissues, we demonstrated that SOX9 interacts with PIAS1 in vitro and in vivo. PIAS1 enhanced the SUMOylation at lysine 396 of mouse SOX9. Mutant SOX9 with a conversion of lysine 396 to arginine had a distinct nuclear localization from SOX9 with covalently attached SUMO-1. Effects of SOX9 SUMOylation on its transcriptional activity were examined by reporter assays using Vanin-1 promoter and Col11a2 enhancer constructs. The lysine 396 to arginine conversion significantly increased the reporter gene activity, while covalent attachment of SUMO-1 to SOX9 by gene fusion dramatically compromised its transcriptional activity on the reporter gene. Effects of SOX9 interaction with PIAS1 on its transcriptional activity were examined by similar reporter assays. PIAS1 was able to repress both wild type SOX9 and SUMOylation-deficient SOX9-K396R, suggesting that SOX9 SUMOylation is not absolutely required for the repression by PIAS1. However, the repression was further enhanced by exogenous SUMO-1 while SUMO-ligase-deficient PIAS1 was not able to repress SOX9 activity. Thus, PIAS1 appears to repress SOX9 activity by at least two SUMO-ligase dependent mechanisms: (1) the SUMOylation of SOX9 and (2) SUMOylation of unknown factors associated with SOX9 and/or PIAS1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Ju Oh
- Department of Medicine, VA Medical Center, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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19
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Cederroth CR, Pitetti JL, Papaioannou MD, Nef S. Genetic programs that regulate testicular and ovarian development. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2007; 265-266:3-9. [PMID: 17208359 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2006.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The gonadal primordium is the only tissue in mammals that has two divergent developmental fates leading ultimately to the formation of either a testis or an ovary. The goal of this review is to summarize the major characteristics of the male and female transcriptional programs triggered in the developing mouse gonads during the critical time window of sex determination. Expression profiling studies reveal that both male and female genetic programs are initiated as early as embryonic day (E) 11.5. By E13.5, more than 1000 genes are overexpressed either in developing ovaries or testes. A large fraction of these have so far no known roles during gonadal differentiation, yet interestingly some of their human orthologues map to chromosomal loci associated with sexual disorders. Identifying the functional roles for these candidate genes will improve our understanding of sex determination and provide new insights into the causes of gonadal dysgenesis and reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R Cederroth
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development and National Research Centre Frontiers in Genetics, University of Geneva Medical School, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
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20
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Hasthorpe S, Tainton K, Peart M, Roeszler KN, Bell KM, Lusby PE, Hutson JM, Tymms MJ. G2/M checkpoint gene expression in developing germ cells. Mol Reprod Dev 2007; 74:531-8. [PMID: 17290426 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Cell cycle progression is prevented by signal transduction pathways known as checkpoints which are activated in response to replication interference and DNA damage. We cloned a G2/M cell cycle phase-related checkpoint gene from a neonatal mouse testis cDNA library which was identified as mouse claspin, a proposed adaptor protein for Chk1. As part of a study on germ cell differentiation we examined the expression of the checkpoint gene, Chk1, and claspin at 12.5 and 14.5 days post coitum (dpc) and in the post-natal phase. Chk1 mRNA expression increased from 12.5 to 14.5 dpc in female gonads and was strong in males at both time points. Claspin however, was not detected until 14.5 dpc. This suggests there may be some dissociation of claspin expression from Chk1 in fetal germ cell development. Chk1 and claspin expression was also studied in testis over the first 3 days following birth, when apoptosis regulates germ stem cell number. We modulated checkpoint-related gene expression in testis using the anti-metabolite, 5-fluorouracil, resulting in increased apoptosis and upregulation of Chk1 (P<0.0001) and Cdc2 (P<0.02) mRNA. Although we do not fully understand the role checkpoint gene expression has during mammalian germ cell development this report is the first to show the expression of checkpoint-related genes in early mammalian germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Hasthorpe
- Germ Cell Research, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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21
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Glattauer V, Irving-Rodgers HF, Rodgers RJ, Stockwell S, Brownlee AG, Werkmeister JA, Ramshaw JAM. Examination of basement membrane components associated with the bovine seminiferous tubule basal lamina. Reprod Fertil Dev 2007; 19:473-81. [PMID: 17394796 DOI: 10.1071/rd06013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2006] [Accepted: 01/15/2007] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunohistology has been used to examine the distribution of certain components of the basement membrane (BM) associated with bovine spermatogonial germ cells that are located within the seminiferous tubules. Histology was performed on testis tissue from Brahman cattle (Bos indicus) of three different age groups: pre-pubescent (4–6 months), juvenile (8–10 months) and adult (18–24 months) animals. There were no major changes in the BM composition apparent between these three age groups, except for certain lectin staining. These data suggest that the predominant collagen type IV component may have an α3 and α4 composition, although other chains, including the α5 and α6 chains, were also present. Possibly the main laminin type present was laminin 121 (α1β2γ1), although other variants were also present. Both nidogen-1 and perlecan, which are normal BM components, were also found as part of the seminiferous tubule BM. Interstitial collagens, such as type I, III and VI collagens, were found in the peritubular space, but were not part of the BM itself, although type VI collagen was most visible in the peritubular zone adjacent to the tubules. Examination of the BM with a range of lectins gave strong staining for (glcNAc)2 entities, weak positive staining for α-l-fuc, but little or no staining for α-galNAc and (glcNAc)3 at all ages, whereas staining for α-gal, β-gal(1→3)galNAc and α-man showed developmental changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Glattauer
- CSIRO Food Futures National Research Flagship, and CSIRO Molecular and Health Technologies, Bayview Avenue, Clayton, Victoria 3169, Australia.
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22
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Ishii M, Tay TW, Matsui T, Kidokoro T, Mizukami T, Kanai Y, Hayashi Y, Kurohmaru M. Expression pattern of alphavbeta3 and alphavbeta5 integrin mRNA in mouse fetal gonads. J Reprod Dev 2006; 52:461-8. [PMID: 16571912 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.17111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The alphavbeta3 and alphavbeta5 integrins are known as transmembrane receptors capable of binding to the RGD amino acid peptide sequence. In mouse early gonadogenesis, some proteins containing the RGD sequence are deposited into extracellular space and participate in morphogenesis. We analyzed the expression patterns of the alphavbeta3 and alphavbeta5 integrins in mouse developing gonads (10.5-13.5 days post coitum) using whole-mount in situ hybridization. The alphav integrin mRNA was homogenously expressed in developing gonadal regions. On the other hand, the beta3 integrin mRNA was found only in large and round cells (presumptive germ cells), whereas beta5 integrin was localized in gonadal somatic cells, with the exception of coelomic epithelial cells. The beta3 integrin-expressed cells were determined to be primordial germ cells because the number of these cells was drastically reduced in busulfan-treated gonads. In this study, we demonstrated that the alphavbeta3 and alphavbeta5 integrins are widely localized in the mouse developing gonads and discussed their presumptive functions on mouse gonadogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maki Ishii
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Japan.
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23
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Beverdam A, Koopman P. Expression profiling of purified mouse gonadal somatic cells during the critical time window of sex determination reveals novel candidate genes for human sexual dysgenesis syndromes. Hum Mol Genet 2006; 15:417-31. [PMID: 16399799 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddi463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the identification of SRY as the testis-determining gene in mammals, the genetic interactions controlling the earliest steps of male sex determination remain poorly understood. In particular, the molecular lesions underlying a high proportion of human XY gonadal dysgenesis, XX maleness and XX true hermaphroditism remain undiscovered. A number of screens have identified candidate genes whose expression is modulated during testis or ovary differentiation in mice, but these screens have used whole gonads, consisting of multiple cell types, or stages of gonadal development well beyond the time of sex determination. We describe here a novel reporter mouse line that expresses enhanced green fluorescent protein under the control of an Sf1 promoter fragment, marking Sertoli and granulosa cell precursors during the critical period of sex determination. These cells were purified from gonads of male and female transgenic embryos at 10.5 dpc (shortly after Sry transcription is activated) and 11.5 dpc (when Sox9 transcription begins), and their transcriptomes analysed using Affymetrix genome arrays. We identified 266 genes, including Dhh, Fgf9 and Ptgds, that were upregulated and 50 genes that were downregulated in 11.5 dpc male somatic gonad cells only, and 242 genes, including Fst, that were upregulated in 11.5 dpc female somatic gonad cells only. The majority of these genes are novel genes that lack identifiable homology, and several human orthologues were found to map to chromosomal loci implicated in disorders of sexual development. These genes represent an important resource with which to piece together the earliest steps of sex determination and gonad development, and provide new candidates for mutation searching in human sexual dysgenesis syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemiek Beverdam
- Division of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
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24
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Nef S, Schaad O, Stallings NR, Cederroth CR, Pitetti JL, Schaer G, Malki S, Dubois-Dauphin M, Boizet-Bonhoure B, Descombes P, Parker KL, Vassalli JD. Gene expression during sex determination reveals a robust female genetic program at the onset of ovarian development. Dev Biol 2005; 287:361-77. [PMID: 16214126 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2005.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2005] [Revised: 07/29/2005] [Accepted: 09/02/2005] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The primary event in mammalian sexual development is the differentiation of the bipotential gonads into either testes or ovaries. Our understanding of the molecular pathways specifying gonadal differentiation is still incomplete. To identify the initial molecular changes accompanying gonadal differentiation in mice, we have performed a large-scale transcriptional analysis of XX and XY Sf1-positive gonadal cells during sex determination. In both male and female genital ridges, a robust genetic program is initiated pre-dating the first morphological changes of the differentiating gonads. Between E10.5 and E13.5, 2306 genes were expressed in a sex-specific manner in the somatic compartment of the gonads; 1223 were overexpressed in XX embryos and 1083 in XY embryos. Although sexually dimorphic genes were scattered throughout the mouse genome, we identified chromosomal regions hosting clusters of genes displaying similar expression profiles. The cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors Cdkn1a and Cdkn1c are overexpressed in XX gonads at E11.5 and E12.5, suggesting that the increased proliferation of XY gonads relative to XX gonads may result from the overexpression of cell cycle inhibitors in the developing ovaries. These studies define the major characteristics of testicular and ovarian transcriptional programs and reveal the richness of signaling processes in differentiation of the bipotential gonads into testes and ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland.
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25
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Boyer A, Lussier JG, Sinclair AH, McClive PJ, Silversides DW. Pre-sertoli specific gene expression profiling reveals differential expression of Ppt1 and Brd3 genes within the mouse genital ridge at the time of sex determination. Biol Reprod 2004; 71:820-7. [PMID: 15128596 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.104.029371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals, testis determination is initiated when the SRY gene is expressed in pre-Sertoli cells of the undifferentiated genital ridge. SRY directs the differentiation of these cells into Sertoli cells and initiates the testis differentiation pathway via currently ill-defined mechanisms. Because Sertoli cells are the first somatic cells to differentiate within the developing testis, it is likely that the signals for orchestrating testis determination are expressed within pre-Sertoli cells. We have previously generated a transgenic mouse line that expresses green fluorescent protein under the control of the pig SRY promoter, thus marking pre-Sertoli cells via fluorescence. We have now used suppression-subtractive hybridization (SSH) to construct a normalized cDNA library derived from fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) purified pre-Sertoli cells taken from 12.0 to 12.5 days postcoitum (dpc) fetal transgenic mouse testes. A total of 35 candidate cDNAs for known genes were identified. Detection of Sf1, a gene known for its role in sex determination as well as Vanin-1, Vcp1, Sparc, and Aldh3a1, four genes previously identified in differential screens as gene overexpressed in developing testis compared with ovary, support the biological validity of our experimental model. Whole-mount in situ hybridization was performed on the 35 candidate genes for qualitative differential expression between male and female genital ridges; six were upregulated in the testis and one was upregulated in the ovary. The expression pattern of two genes, Ppt1 and Brd3, were examined in further detail. We conclude that combining transgenically marked fluorescent cell populations with differential expression screening is useful for cell expression profiling in developmental systems such as sex determination and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Boyer
- Centre de recherche en reproduction animale, Faculté de médecin vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St.-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 7C6, Canada
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26
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McClive PJ, Hurley TM, Sarraj MA, van den Bergen JA, Sinclair AH. Subtractive hybridisation screen identifies sexually dimorphic gene expression in the embryonic mouse gonad. Genesis 2003; 37:84-90. [PMID: 14595844 DOI: 10.1002/gene.10231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The sex of most mammals is determined by the action of SRY. Its presence initiates testis formation resulting in male differentiation, its absence results in ovary formation and female differentiation. We have used suppression subtraction hybridisation between 12.0-12.5 days postcoitum (dpc) mouse testes and ovaries to identify genes that potentially lie within the Sry pathway. Normalised urogenital ridge libraries comprising 8,352 clones were differentially screened with subtracted probes. A total of 272 candidate cDNAs were tested for qualitative differential expression and localisation by whole mount in situ hybridisation; germ cell-dependent or -independent expression was further resolved using busulfan. Fifty-four genes were identified that showed higher expression in the testis than the ovary. One novel gene may be a candidate for interactions with WT1, based on its localisation to Sertoli cells and map position (16q24.3).
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27
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Hiramatsu R, Kanai Y, Mizukami T, Ishii M, Matoba S, Kanai-Azuma M, Kurohmaru M, Kawakami H, Hayashi Y. Regionally distinct potencies of mouse XY genital ridge to initiate testis differentiation dependent on anteroposterior axis. Dev Dyn 2003; 228:247-53. [PMID: 14517996 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.10379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
In mouse gonadal differentiation, the center-to-pole Sry expression pattern suggests the regionally distinct potencies of the genital ridge, which induce testis differentiation. In this study, we examined the anteroposterior axis-dependent differences in testis-differentiation potencies by using cultures of anterior, middle, and posterior segments of the XY genital ridge. The inducible pattern of Sertoli cell differentiation showed a center-to-pole wave similar to the initial Sry expression pattern. In contrast, the ability to induce Leydig cell differentiation emanated from the anterior segment and then spread to the posterior side. These findings suggest the presence of two distinct dynamic waves in the capacity of the genital ridge to induce Sertoli or Leydig cell differentiation at early phases of testis differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuji Hiramatsu
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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Sarraj MA, Wilmore HP, McClive PJ, Sinclair AH. Sox15 is up regulated in the embryonic mouse testis. Gene Expr Patterns 2003; 3:413-7. [PMID: 12915303 DOI: 10.1016/s1567-133x(03)00085-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian sex determining region on the Y chromosome, SRY, is the founding member of the SOX gene family. SOX genes share a common DNA-binding motif termed the HMG box and have diverse roles in vertebrate embryonic development and tissue differentiation. Sox15 expression was analysed during mouse embryogenesis by whole-mount in situ hybridisation and Real Time RT-PCR. Sox15 was found to be expressed in developing mouse gonads from 11.5 dpc to 13.5 dpc with a peak of expression at 12.5 dpc. Expression was approximately twice as high in the male gonad as in the female gonad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai A Sarraj
- Department of Paediatrics, Centre for Hormone Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic 3052, Australia
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