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Liu W, Du L, Li J, He Y, Tang M. Microenvironment of spermatogonial stem cells: a key factor in the regulation of spermatogenesis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:294. [PMID: 39256786 PMCID: PMC11389459 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03893-z] [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: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) play a crucial role in the male reproductive system, responsible for maintaining continuous spermatogenesis. The microenvironment or niche of SSCs is a key factor in regulating their self-renewal, differentiation and spermatogenesis. This microenvironment consists of multiple cell types, extracellular matrix, growth factors, hormones and other molecular signals that interact to form a complex regulatory network. This review aims to provide an overview of the main components of the SSCs microenvironment, explore how they regulate the fate decisions of SSCs, and discuss the potential impact of microenvironmental abnormalities on male reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University/Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Li Du
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, The Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Junjun Li
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University/Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Yan He
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University/Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China.
| | - Mengjie Tang
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University/Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China.
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Munyoki SK, Orwig KE. Perspectives: Methods for Evaluating Primate Spermatogonial Stem Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2656:341-364. [PMID: 37249880 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3139-3_18] [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] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a complex, highly productive process generating millions of sperm per day. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are at the foundation of spermatogenesis and can either self-renew, producing more SSCs, or differentiate to initiate spermatogenesis and produce sperm. The biological potential of SSCs to produce and maintain spermatogenesis makes them a promising tool for the treatment of male infertility. However, translating knowledge from rodents to higher primates (monkeys and humans) is challenged by different vocabularies that are used to describe stem cells and spermatogenic lineage development in those species. Furthermore, while rodent SSCs are defined by their biological potential to produce and maintain spermatogenesis in a transplant assay, there is no equivalent routine and accessible bioassay to test monkey and human SSCs or replicate their functions in vitro. This chapter describes progress characterizing, isolating, culturing, and transplanting SSCs in higher primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Munyoki
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Integrative Systems Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Integrative Systems Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Singh SP, Kharche SD, Pathak M, Soni YK, Ranjan R, Singh MK, Chauhan MS. Reproductive stage- and season-dependent culture characteristics of enriched caprine male germline stem cells. Cytotechnology 2022; 74:123-140. [PMID: 35185290 PMCID: PMC8816984 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-021-00515-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aims to evaluate season- and reproductive-stage dependent variation in culture characteristics and expression of pluripotency and adhesion markers in caprine-male germline stem cells (cmGSCs). For this, testes from pre-pubertal (4-6 months) and adult (~ 2 years) bucks during non-breeding (July-August; n = 4 each) and breeding (October-November; n = 4 each) seasons were used to isolated testicular cells by two-step enzymatic digestion. After cmGSCs enrichment by multiple methods (differential platting, Percoll density gradient centrifugation, and MACS), cell viability of CD90+ cells was assessed before co-cultured onto the Sertoli cell feeder layer up to 3rd-passage (P-3). The culture characteristics of cmGSCs were compared during primary culture (P-0) and P-3 with different assays [BrdU-assay (proliferation), MTT-assay (senescence), and Cluster-forming activity-assay] and transcript expression analyses by qRT-PCR. Moreover, the co-localization of UCHL-1, CD90, and DBA was examined by a double-immunofluorescence method. In adult bucks, significantly (p < 0.05) higher cell numbers with the ability to proliferate faster and form a greater number of cell clusters, besides up-regulation of pluripotency and adhesion markers expression were observed during the breeding season than the non-breeding season. In contrast, such season-dependent variation was lacking in pre-pubertal bucks. The expression of transcripts during non-breeding seasons was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in pre-pubertal cmGSCs than in adult cells (UCHL-1 = 2.38-folds; CD-90 = 6.66-folds; PLZF = 20.87-folds; ID-4 = 4.75-folds; E-cadherin = 3.89-folds and β1-integrin = 5.70-folds). Overall, the reproductive stage and season affect the population, culture characteristics, and expression of pluripotency and adhesion specific markers in buck testis. These results provide an insight to develop an efficient system for successful cell culture processes targeting cmGSCs. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10616-021-00515-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Pratap Singh
- Animal Physiology and Reproduction Division, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom, Farah, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh 281122 India
| | - Suresh Dinkar Kharche
- Animal Physiology and Reproduction Division, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom, Farah, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh 281122 India
| | - Manisha Pathak
- Animal Physiology and Reproduction Division, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom, Farah, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh 281122 India
| | - Yogesh Kumar Soni
- Animal Physiology and Reproduction Division, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom, Farah, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh 281122 India
| | - Ravi Ranjan
- Animal Physiology and Reproduction Division, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom, Farah, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh 281122 India
| | - Manoj Kumar Singh
- Animal Genetics and Breeding Division, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom, Farah, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh 281122 India
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Recchia K, Jorge AS, Pessôa LVDF, Botigelli RC, Zugaib VC, de Souza AF, Martins DDS, Ambrósio CE, Bressan FF, Pieri NCG. Actions and Roles of FSH in Germinative Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10110. [PMID: 34576272 PMCID: PMC8470522 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland in a coordinated hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis event, plays important roles in reproduction and germ cell development during different phases of reproductive development (fetal, neonatal, puberty, and adult life), and is consequently essential for fertility. FSH is a heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone of two dissociable subunits, α and β. The FSH β-subunit (FSHβ) function starts upon coupling to its specific receptor: follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR). FSHRs are localized mainly on the surface of target cells on the testis and ovary (granulosa and Sertoli cells) and have recently been found in testicular stem cells and extra-gonadal tissue. Several reproduction disorders are associated with absent or low FSH secretion, with mutation of the FSH β-subunit or the FSH receptor, and/or its signaling pathways. However, the influence of FSH on germ cells is still poorly understood; some studies have suggested that this hormone also plays a determinant role in the self-renewal of germinative cells and acts to increase undifferentiated spermatogonia proliferation. In addition, in vitro, together with other factors, it assists the process of differentiation of primordial germ cells (PGCLCs) into gametes (oocyte-like and SSCLCs). In this review, we describe relevant research on the influence of FSH on spermatogenesis and folliculogenesis, mainly in the germ cell of humans and other species. The possible roles of FSH in germ cell generation in vitro are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiana Recchia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01001-010, Brazil; (K.R.); (F.F.B.)
| | - Amanda Soares Jorge
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Laís Vicari de Figueiredo Pessôa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Ramon Cesar Botigelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-970, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Cristiane Zugaib
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Aline Fernanda de Souza
- Department Biomedical Science, Ontary Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Daniele dos Santos Martins
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Carlos Eduardo Ambrósio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Fabiana Fernandes Bressan
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01001-010, Brazil; (K.R.); (F.F.B.)
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Naira Caroline Godoy Pieri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
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Wei YL, She ZY, Huang T, Zhang HT, Wang XR. Male reproductive systems of Macaca mulatta: Gonadal development, spermatogenesis and applications in spermatogonia stem cell transplantation. Res Vet Sci 2021; 137:127-137. [PMID: 33965833 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) is widely applied in animal model construction of infertility, spermatogonia stem cell transplantation and male reproductive diseases. In this review, we describe the seasonal changes of the reproductive system in rhesus macaques, the regular pattern of spermatogenesis and spermatozoa maturation, and the differentiation of spermatogonia and spermatocytes. The duration of the M. mulatta spermatogenesis is approximately 10 days and seminiferous epithelium cycles mainly consist of 12 stages, which provide a suitable model for reproductive studies in non-human primates. Here, we summarize the features of gonadal development and sperm maturation in the rhesus monkeys, which provide important information in the studies of reproductive biology. Rhesus macaque is an excellent animal model in spermatogonia stem cell transplantation. We discuss the applications and progresses of assisted reproductive technologies in sperm liquefaction, semen cryopreservation and spermatogonia stem cell transplantation of rhesus macaques. Besides, we sort out recent proteomic analyses of male reproductive systems and semen samples in rhesus macaques. This review mainly focuses on male reproductive biology and application studies using M. mulatta, which would promote the development of new therapeutic interventions on assisted reproduction and reproductive disease studies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Lan Wei
- Fujian Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350011, China; Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China; Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate, National Health Commission, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China.
| | - Zhen-Yu She
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China; Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate, National Health Commission, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China
| | - Hai-Tao Zhang
- Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China; Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate, National Health Commission, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China
| | - Xin-Rui Wang
- Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China; Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate, National Health Commission, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China.
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Khanehzad M, Abbaszadeh R, Holakuyee M, Modarressi MH, Nourashrafeddin SM. FSH regulates RA signaling to commit spermatogonia into differentiation pathway and meiosis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:4. [PMID: 33407539 PMCID: PMC7789255 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00686-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis is a complex process that is controlled by interactions between germ cells and somatic cells. The commitment of undifferentiated spermatogonia to differentiating spermatogonia and normal spermatogenesis requires the action of gonadotropins. Additionally, numerous studies revealed the role of retinoic acid signaling in induction of germ cell differentiation and meiosis entry. MAIN TEXT Recent studies have shown that expression of several RA signaling molecules including Rdh10, Aldh1a2, Crabp1/2 are influenced by changes in gonadotropin levels. Components of signaling pathways that are regulated by FSH signaling such as GDNF, Sohlh1/2, c-Kit, DMRT, BMP4 and NRGs along with transcription factors that are important for proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonia are also affected by retinoic acid signaling. CONCLUSION According to all studies that demonstrate the interface between FSH and RA signaling, we suggest that RA may trigger spermatogonia differentiation and initiation of meiosis through regulation by FSH signaling in testis. Therefore, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that the correlation between FSH and RA signaling in spermatogenesis is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Khanehzad
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roya Abbaszadeh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Seyed Mehdi Nourashrafeddin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA.
- School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Single-Cell RNA Sequencing of the Cynomolgus Macaque Testis Reveals Conserved Transcriptional Profiles during Mammalian Spermatogenesis. Dev Cell 2020; 54:548-566.e7. [PMID: 32795394 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2020.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is highly orchestrated and involves the differentiation of diploid spermatogonia into haploid sperm. The process is driven by spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). SSCs undergo mitotic self-renewal, whereas sub-populations undergo differentiation and later gain competence to initiate meiosis. Here, we describe a high-resolution single-cell RNA-seq atlas of cells derived from Cynomolgus macaque testis. We identify gene signatures that define spermatogonial populations and explore self-renewal versus differentiation dynamics. We detail transcriptional changes occurring over the entire process of spermatogenesis and highlight the concerted activity of DNA damage response (DDR) pathway genes, which have dual roles in maintaining genomic integrity and effecting meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI). We show remarkable similarities and differences in gene expression during spermatogenesis with two other eutherian mammals, i.e., mouse and humans. Sex chromosome expression in the male germline in all three species demonstrates conserved features of MSCI but divergent multicopy and ampliconic gene content.
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Sharma S, Wistuba J, Neuhaus N, Schlatt S. Reply: Pluripotent very small embryonic-like stem cells co-exist along with spermatogonial stem cells in adult mammalian testis. Hum Reprod Update 2019; 26:138. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Joachim Wistuba
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Münster, Germany
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Bhattacharya I, Sen Sharma S, Majumdar SS. Pubertal orchestration of hormones and testis in primates. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:1505-1530. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology & BiotechnologyHNB Garhwal University, Srinagar CampusSrinagar India
- Cellular Endocrinology LabNational Institute of ImmunologyNew Delhi India
| | - Souvik Sen Sharma
- Cellular Endocrinology LabNational Institute of ImmunologyNew Delhi India
| | - Subeer S. Majumdar
- Cellular Endocrinology LabNational Institute of ImmunologyNew Delhi India
- Gene and Protein Engineering LabNational Institute of Animal BiotechnologyHyderabad India
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Caldeira-Brant AL, Eras-Garcia L, Alves-Freitas D, Almeida FRCL, Chiarini-Garcia H. Spermatogonial behavior in marmoset: a new generation, their kinetics and niche. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 24:299-309. [PMID: 29660000 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gay017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Could a more detailed evaluation of marmoset spermatogonial morphology, kinetics and niches using high-resolution light microscopy (HRLM) lead to new findings? SUMMARY ANSWER Three subtypes of marmoset undifferentiated spermatogonia, which were not evenly distributed in terms of number and position along the basal membrane, and an extra premeiotic cell division not present in humans were identified using HRLM. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The seminiferous epithelium cycle (SEC) of marmosets is divided into nine stages when based on the acrosome system, and several spermatogenic stages can usually be recognized within the same tubular cross-section. Three spermatogonial generations have been previously described in marmosets: types Adark, Apale and B spermatogonia. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Testes from five adult Callithrix penicillata were fixed by glutaraldehyde perfusion via the cardiac route and embedded in Araldite plastic resin for HRLM evaluation. Semi-thin sections (1 μm) were analyzed morphologically and morphometrically to evaluate spermatogonial morphology and kinetics (number, mitosis and apoptosis), spermatogenesis efficiency and the spermatogonial niche. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Shape and nuclear diameter, the presence and distribution of heterochromatin, the granularity of the euchromatin, as well as the number, morphology and degree of nucleolar compaction were observed for morphological characterization. Kinetics analyses were performed for all spermatogonial subtypes and preleptotene spermatocytes, and their mitosis and apoptosis indexes determined across all SEC stages. Spermatogenesis parameters (mitotic, meiotic, Sertoli cell workload and general spermatogenesis efficiency) were determined through the counting of Adark and Apale spermatogonia, preleptotene and pachytene primary spermatocytes, round spermatids, and Sertoli cells at stage IV of the SEC. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE This is the first time that a study in marmosets demonstrates: the existence of a new spermatogonial generation (B2); the presence of two subtypes of Adark spermatogonia with (AdVac) and without (AdNoVac) nuclear rarefaction zones; the peculiar behavior of AdVac spermatogonia across the stages of the SEC, suggesting that they are quiescent stem spermatogonia; and that AdVac spermatogonia are located close to areas in which blood vessels, Leydig cells and macrophages are concentrated, suggesting a niche area for these cells. LARGE SCALE DATA Not applicable. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The C. penicillata spermatogonial kinetics evaluated here consider spermatogonial number across the SEC and their mitotic and apoptotic figures identified in HRLM sections. Therefore, caution is required when comparing absolute values between species. Although morphometric evaluation has suggested that AdVac spermatogonia are stem cells, a functional proof of this is still missing. It is known that parameters of the spermatogenic process in C. penicillata have similarities with those of the common marmoset C. jacchus, however, a detailed study of spermatogonial morphology, kinetics and niche has not yet been performed in C. jacchus, and a full comparison of the two species is not possible. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings in C. penicillata contribute to a better understanding of the spermatogonial behavior and spermatogenesis efficiency in non-human primates. Given the phylogenetic closeness of the marmoset to the human species, similar processes might occur in humans. Therefore, marmosets may be an excellent model for studies regarding human testicular biology, fertility and related disorders. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Experiments were partially supported by Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES), Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais (FAPEMIG) and Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnológico (CNPq). The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Caldeira-Brant
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Reprodução, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas-ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais-UFMG, 31.270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - L Eras-Garcia
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Reprodução, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas-ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais-UFMG, 31.270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - D Alves-Freitas
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Reprodução, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas-ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais-UFMG, 31.270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - F R C L Almeida
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Reprodução, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas-ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais-UFMG, 31.270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - H Chiarini-Garcia
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Reprodução, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas-ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais-UFMG, 31.270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Hilbold E, Bergmann M, Fietz D, Kliesch S, Weidner W, Langeheine M, Rode K, Brehm R. Immunolocalization of DMRTB1 in human testis with normal and impaired spermatogenesis. Andrology 2019; 7:428-440. [PMID: 30920770 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transcription factor DMRTB1 plays a pivotal role in coordinating the transition between mitosis and meiosis in murine germ cells. No reliable data are available for human testis. OBJECTIVES The present study aims to examine the testicular expression pattern of DMRTB1 in men showing normal and impaired spermatogenesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Immunohistochemistry was performed using 54 human testicular biopsy specimens and a commercial rabbit polyclonal anti-DMRTB1 primary antibody. RT-PCR complemented immunohistochemistry. To further characterize immunopositive cells and possible co-localization, the proliferation marker Ki-67, the tumor marker PLAP, and an anti-DMRT1 antibody were used. RESULTS In men with normal spermatogenesis, a strong immunoreactivity was detectable in a subset of spermatogonia (38.34 ± 2.14%). Some spermatocytes showed a weak immunostaining. Adjacent Sertoli cells were immunonegative. Compared with a hematoxylin and eosin overview staining, these immunopositive cells were almost exclusively identified as Apale and B spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes in (pre-)leptotene, zygotene, and pachytene stages. In patients with spermatogenic arrest at spermatogonial level, an altered staining pattern was found. No immunoreactivity was detected in Sertoli cells in Sertoli cell-only syndrome. In germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS) tubules, except for a few (0.4 ± 0.03%), pre-invasive tumor cells were immunonegative. Seminoma cells showed no immunostaining. DISCUSSION According to previous findings in mice, it seems reasonable that DMRTB1 is expressed in these normal germ cell populations. Moreover, altered staining pattern in spermatogenic arrest at spermatogonial stage suggests a correlation with mitosis and transformation into B spermatogonia. The absence of DMRTB1 in GCNIS cells and tumor cells might be associated with uncontrolled neoplastic cell proliferation and progression into invasive germ cell tumors. Further research is required to elucidate, for example, the role of DMRTB1 in the malignant transformation of human germ cells. CONCLUSION Our data indicate a relevant role for DMRTB1 regarding the entry of spermatogonia into meiosis in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Hilbold
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - M Bergmann
- Institute for Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - D Fietz
- Institute for Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - S Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - W Weidner
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - M Langeheine
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - K Rode
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - R Brehm
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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Ramaswamy S, Walker WH, Aliberti P, Sethi R, Marshall GR, Smith A, Nourashrafeddin S, Belgorosky A, Chandran UR, Hedger MP, Plant TM. The testicular transcriptome associated with spermatogonia differentiation initiated by gonadotrophin stimulation in the juvenile rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta). Hum Reprod 2018; 32:2088-2100. [PMID: 28938749 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the genetic landscape within the testis of the juvenile rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) that underlies the decision of undifferentiated spermatogonia to commit to a pathway of differentiation when puberty is induced prematurely by exogenous LH and FSH stimulation? SUMMARY ANSWER Forty-eight hours of gonadotrophin stimulation of the juvenile monkey testis resulted in the appearance of differentiating B spermatogonia and the emergence of 1362 up-regulated and 225 down-regulated testicular mRNAs encoding a complex network of proteins ranging from enzymes regulating Leydig cell steroidogenesis to membrane receptors, and from juxtacrine and paracrine factors to transcriptional factors governing spermatogonial stem cell fate. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Our understanding of the cell and molecular biology underlying the fate of undifferentiated spermatogonia is based largely on studies of rodents, particularly of mice, but in the case of primates very little is known. The present study represents the first attempt to comprehensively address this question in a highly evolved primate. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Global gene expression in the testis from juvenile rhesus monkeys that had been stimulated with recombinant monkey LH and FSH for 48 h (N = 3) or 96 h (N = 4) was compared to that from vehicle treated animals (N = 3). Testicular cell types and testosterone secretion were also monitored. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Precocious testicular puberty was initiated in juvenile rhesus monkeys, 14-24 months of age, using a physiologic mode of intermittent stimulation with i.v. recombinant monkey LH and FSH that within 48 h produced 'adult' levels of circulating LH, FSH and testosterone. Mitotic activity was monitored by immunohistochemical assays of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation. Animals were bilaterally castrated and RNA was extracted from the right testis. Global gene expression was determined using RNA-Seq. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and evaluated by pathway analysis. mRNAs of particular interest were also quantitated using quantitative RT-PCR. Fractions of the left testis were used for histochemistry or immunoflouresence. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Differentiating type B spematogonia were observed after both 48 and 96 h of gonadotrophin stimulation. Pathway analysis identified five super categories of over-represented DEGs. Repression of GFRA1 (glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor family receptor alpha 1) and NANOS2 (nanos C2HC-type zinc finger 2) that favor spermatogonial stem cell renewal was noted after 48 and 96 h of LH and FSH stimulation. Additionally, changes in expression of numerous genes involved in regulating the Notch pathway, cell adhesion, structural plasticity and modulating the immune system were observed. Induction of genes associated with the differentiation of spermatogonia stem cells (SOHLH1(spermatogenesis- and oogenesis-specific basic helix-loop-helix 1), SOHLH2 and KIT (V-Kit Hardy-Zuckerman 4 feline sarcoma viral oncogene homolog)) was not observed. Expression of the gene encoding STRA8 (stimulated by retinoic acid 8), a protein generally considered to mark activation of retinoic acid signaling, was below our limit of detection. LARGE SCALE DATA The entire mRNA data set for vehicle and gonadotrophin treated animals (N = 10) has been deposited in the GEO-NCBI repository (GSE97786). LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The limited number of monkeys per group and the dilution of low abundance germ cell transcripts by mRNAs contributed from somatic cells likely resulted in an underestimation of the number of differentially expressed germ cell genes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The findings that expression of GDNF (a major promoter of spermatogonial stem cell renewal) was not detected in the control juvenile testes, expression of SOHLH1, SOHLH2 and KIT, promoters of spermatogonial differentiation in mice, were not up-regulated in association with the gonadotrophin-induced generation of differentiating spermatogonia, and that robust activation of the retinoic acid signaling pathway was not observed, could not have been predicted. These unexpected results underline the importance of non-human primate models in translating data derived from animal research to the human situation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The work described was funded by NIH grant R01 HD072189 to T.M.P. P.A. was supported by an Endocrine Society Summer Research Fellowship Award and CONICET (Argentine Research Council), S.N. by a grant from Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center of Tehran University of Medical Sciences (grant #24335-39-92) to Dr Batool Hosseini Rashidi, and M.P.H. by grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia, and the Victorian State Government's Operational Infrastructure Support Program. The authors have nothing to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Ramaswamy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - William H Walker
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Paula Aliberti
- Endocrine Service, Hospital de Pediatría Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rahil Sethi
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, USA
| | - Gary R Marshall
- Department of Natural Sciences, Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Alyxzandria Smith
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Seyedmehdi Nourashrafeddin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Alicia Belgorosky
- Endocrine Service, Hospital de Pediatría Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Uma R Chandran
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, USA
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Tony M Plant
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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von Kopylow K, Spiess AN. Human spermatogonial markers. Stem Cell Res 2017; 25:300-309. [PMID: 29239848 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2017.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we provide an up-to-date compilation of published human spermatogonial markers, with focus on the three nuclear subtypes Adark, Apale and B. In addition, we have extended our recently published list of putative spermatogonial markers with protein expression and RNA-sequencing data from the Human Protein Atlas and supported these by literature evidence. Most importantly, we have put substantial effort in acquiring a comprehensive list of new and potentially interesting markers by refiltering the raw data of 15 published germ cell expression datasets (four human, eleven rodent) and subsequent building of intersections to acquire a robust, cross-species set of spermatogonia-enriched or -specific transcripts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrein von Kopylow
- Department of Andrology, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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Sharma S, Portela JMD, Langenstroth-Röwer D, Wistuba J, Neuhaus N, Schlatt S. Male germline stem cells in non-human primates. Primate Biol 2017; 4:173-184. [PMID: 32110705 PMCID: PMC7041516 DOI: 10.5194/pb-4-173-2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past few decades, several studies have attempted to decipher the
biology of mammalian germline stem cells (GSCs). These studies provide
evidence that regulatory mechanisms for germ cell specification and migration
are evolutionarily conserved across species. The characteristics and
functions of primate GSCs are highly distinct from rodent species; therefore
the findings from rodent models cannot be extrapolated to primates. Due to
limited availability of human embryonic and testicular samples for research
purposes, two non-human primate models (marmoset and macaque monkeys) are
extensively employed to understand human germline development and
differentiation. This review provides a broader introduction to the in vivo
and in vitro germline stem cell terminology from primordial to
differentiating germ cells. Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are the most
immature germ cells colonizing the gonad prior to sex differentiation into
testes or ovaries. PGC specification and migratory patterns among different
primate species are compared in the review. It also reports the distinctions
and similarities in expression patterns of pluripotency markers (OCT4A,
NANOG, SALL4 and LIN28) during embryonic developmental stages, among
marmosets, macaques and humans. This review presents a comparative summary
with immunohistochemical and molecular evidence of germ cell marker
expression patterns during postnatal developmental stages, among humans and
non-human primates. Furthermore, it reports findings from the recent
literature investigating the plasticity behavior of germ cells and stem cells
in other organs of humans and monkeys. The use of non-human primate models
would enable bridging the knowledge gap in primate GSC research and
understanding the mechanisms involved in germline development. Reported
similarities in regulatory mechanisms and germ cell expression profile in
primates demonstrate the preclinical significance of monkey models for
development of human fertility preservation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Albert Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, Münster, Germany.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Joana M D Portela
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Daniel Langenstroth-Röwer
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Albert Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, Münster, Germany
| | - Joachim Wistuba
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Albert Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Albert Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Albert Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, Münster, Germany
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16
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Di Persio S, Saracino R, Fera S, Muciaccia B, Esposito V, Boitani C, Berloco BP, Nudo F, Spadetta G, Stefanini M, de Rooij DG, Vicini E. Spermatogonial kinetics in humans. Development 2017; 144:3430-3439. [PMID: 28827392 DOI: 10.1242/dev.150284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The human spermatogonial compartment is essential for daily production of millions of sperm. Despite this crucial role, the molecular signature, kinetic behavior and regulation of human spermatogonia are poorly understood. Using human testis biopsies with normal spermatogenesis and by studying marker protein expression, we have identified for the first time different subpopulations of spermatogonia. MAGE-A4 marks all spermatogonia, KIT marks all B spermatogonia and UCLH1 all Apale-dark (Ap-d) spermatogonia. We suggest that at the start of the spermatogenic lineage there are Ap-d spermatogonia that are GFRA1High, likely including the spermatogonial stem cells. Next, UTF1 becomes expressed, cells become quiescent and GFRA1 expression decreases. Finally, GFRA1 expression is lost and subsequently cells differentiate into B spermatogonia, losing UTF1 and acquiring KIT expression. Strikingly, most human Ap-d spermatogonia are out of the cell cycle and even differentiating type B spermatogonial proliferation is restricted. A novel scheme for human spermatogonial development is proposed that will facilitate further research in this field, the understanding of cases of infertility and the development of methods to increase sperm output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Di Persio
- Fondazione Pasteur Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences - Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Rossana Saracino
- Fondazione Pasteur Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences - Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Stefania Fera
- Fondazione Pasteur Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences - Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Barbara Muciaccia
- Fondazione Pasteur Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences - Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Valentina Esposito
- Fondazione Pasteur Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences - Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Carla Boitani
- Fondazione Pasteur Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences - Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Bartolomeo P Berloco
- Department of General and Specialistic Surgery 'Paride Stefanini', Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Francesco Nudo
- Department of General and Specialistic Surgery 'Paride Stefanini', Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Gustavo Spadetta
- Department of Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Nephrological, Anesthesiological and Geriatric Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Mario Stefanini
- Fondazione Pasteur Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences - Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Dirk G de Rooij
- Fondazione Pasteur Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences - Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Elena Vicini
- Fondazione Pasteur Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences - Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
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17
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Enrichment and In Vitro Culture of Spermatogonial Stem Cells from Pre-Pubertal Monkey Testes. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2017; 14:557-566. [PMID: 30603509 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-017-0058-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are essential for spermatogenesis throughout the lifespan of the male. However, the rarity of SSCs has raised the need for an efficient selection method, but little is known about culture conditions that stimulate monkey SSC proliferation in vitro. In this study, we report the development of effective enrichment techniques and in vitro culturing of germ cells from pre-pubertal monkey testes. Testis cells were analyzed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting techniques and were transplanted into the testes of nude mice to characterize SSCs. Thy-1-positive cells showed a higher number of colonies than the unselected control after xenotransplantation. Extensive colonization of monkey cells in the mouse testes indicated the presence of highly enriched populations of SSCs in the Thy-1-positive sorted cells. Furthermore, monkey testis cells were enriched by differential plating using extracellular matrix, laminin, and gelatin, and then cultured under various conditions. Isolation of monkey testicular germ cells by differential plating increased germ cell purity by 2.7-fold, following the combinational isolation method using gelatin and laminin. These enriched germ cells actively proliferated under culture conditions involving StemPro medium supplemented with bFGF, GDNF, LIF, and EGF at 37 °C. These results suggest that the enrichment and in vitro culture method proposed in the present study for harvesting a large number of functionally active monkey SSCs can be applied as the basis for efficient in vitro expansion of human SSCs.
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Dreef HC, Van Esch E, De Rijk EPCT. Spermatogenesis in the Cynomolgus Monkey (Macaca fascicularis): A Practical Guide for Routine Morphological Staging. Toxicol Pathol 2016; 35:395-404. [PMID: 17455088 DOI: 10.1080/01926230701230346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The cynomolgus monkey ( Macaca fascicularis) is widely used in regulatory toxicity studies. Especially in studies on male contraception, the male reproductive tract can be an important target system. The aim of the present paper is to describe a practical approach for morphological staging of spermatogenesis in routinely prepared paraffin sections. Results obtained using this approach could help to determine possible drug-related effects on spermatogenesis. As a guide to the investigators, photomicrographs of Bouin-fixed, paraffin-embedded and H&E or PAS stained sections from testis tissue are presented to illustrate the twelve successive morphological stages (cell associations) of normal spermatogenesis. Sexually immature or peripubertal monkeys sometimes are included in toxicity studies. Since the morphological features of the testes of such monkeys can be mistaken for treatment-related abnormalities, the morphologic characteristics of these testes are described and discussed briefly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriette C Dreef
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Disposition, Organon, 5340 BH, Oss, The Netherlands
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Huleihel M, Nourashrafeddin S, Plant TM. Application of three-dimensional culture systems to study mammalian spermatogenesis, with an emphasis on the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta). Asian J Androl 2015; 17:972-80. [PMID: 26067870 PMCID: PMC4814948 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.154994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2014] [Revised: 11/26/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro culture of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) has generally been performed using two-dimensional (2D) culture systems; however, such cultures have not led to the development of complete spermatogenesis. It seems that 2D systems do not replicate optimal conditions of the seminiferous tubules (including those generated by the SSC niche) and necessary for spermatogenesis. Recently, one of our laboratories has been able to induce proliferation and differentiation of mouse testicular germ cells to meiotic and postmeiotic stages including generation of sperm in a 3D soft agar culture system (SACS) and a 3D methylcellulose culture system (MCS). It was suggested that SACS and MCS form a special 3D microenvironment that mimics germ cell niche formation in the seminiferous tubules, and thus permits mouse spermatogenesis in vitro. In this review, we (1) provide a brief overview of the differences in spermatogenesis in rodents and primates, (2) summarize data related to attempts to generate sperm in vitro, (3) report for the first time formation of colonies/clusters of cells and differentiation of meiotic (expression of CREM-1) and postmeiotic (expression of acrosin) germ cells from undifferentiated spermatogonia isolated from the testis of prepubertal rhesus monkeys and cultured in SACS and MCS, and (4) indicate research needed to optimize 3D systems for in vitro primate spermatogenesis and for possible future application to man.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Huleihel
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Seyedmehdi Nourashrafeddin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Tony M Plant
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Nourashrafeddin S. Potential roles of gonadotropins to control pulsatile retinoic acid signaling during spermatogenesis. Med Hypotheses 2015; 85:303-4. [PMID: 26141633 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2015.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2015] [Accepted: 05/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a highly regulated process that takes place in the seminiferous tubules of testis. This process initiates at puberty with differentiation of spermatogonia and their meiotic entry. The initiation of spermatogenesis depends on gonadotropins secreted by the pituitary gland; i.e., follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). In the absence of FSH and LH only premeiotic germ cells are present in the testis. The prepubertal development phase in juvenile testis is characterized by a protracted hypogonadotropic state, which only consists of Sertoli and undifferentiated germ cells in the seminiferous epithelium. All germ cells in the juvenile testis are undifferentiated spermatogonia, which are proliferating in a relatively gonadotropin-independent manner. It has been revealed that vitamin A deficient (VAD) animals are also infertile, and only premeiotic germ cells (undifferentiated spermatogonia) are present in their seminiferous tubules. The developmental block in VAD animal can be removed by administration of retinol and germ cell differentiation reinitiates in a synchronous manner. Recent studies have revealed that the biologically active form of vitamin A, retinoic acid (RA), regulates germ cell differentiation and lead to the generation of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium and normal spermatogenic wave. Recent study has shown that synchronous spermatogenesis at neonatal mouse, but not after initiation of meiosis, can be induced by treating vitamin A sufficient males with RA. The treatment of neonatal males at different ages with exogenous RA has revealed that although RA is sufficient to induce differentiation of spermatogonial at 4 dpp and earlier, it fails to alter asynchrony and it does not irreversibly cause a spermatogonial differentiation. These observations led us to suggest that gonadotropins trigger differentiation of spermatogonia and spermatogenesis through regulation of RA signaling in the seminiferous epithelium of the adult testis.
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Liu Y, Niu M, Yao C, Hai Y, Yuan Q, Liu Y, Guo Y, Li Z, He Z. Fractionation of human spermatogenic cells using STA-PUT gravity sedimentation and their miRNA profiling. Sci Rep 2015; 5:8084. [PMID: 25634318 PMCID: PMC5155379 DOI: 10.1038/srep08084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Human spermatogenic cells have not yet been isolated, and notably, their global miRNA profiles remain unknown. Here we have effectively isolated human spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids using STA-PUT velocity sedimentation. RT-PCR, immunocytochemistry and meiosis spread assays revealed that the purities of isolated human spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes, and round spermatids were 90%, and the viability of these isolated cells was over 98%. MiRNA microarrays showed distinct global miRNA profiles among human spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes, and round spermatids. Thirty-two miRNAs were significantly up-regulated whereas 78 miRNAs were down-regulated between human spermatogonia and pachytene spermatocytes, suggesting that these miRNAs are involved in the meiosis and mitosis, respectively. In total, 144 miRNAs were significantly up-regulated while 29 miRNAs were down-regulated between pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids, reflecting potential roles of these miRNAs in mediating spermiogenesis. A number of novel binding targets of miRNAs were further identified using various softwares and verified by real-time PCR. Our ability of isolating human spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids and unveiling their distinct global miRNA signatures and novel targets could provide novel small RNA regulatory mechanisms mediating three phases of human spermatogenesis and offer new targets for the treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Minghui Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chencheng Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanan Hai
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingqing Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Urology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, 145 Shangdong Road, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Zuping He
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China [2] Department of Urology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, 145 Shangdong Road, Shanghai 200001, China [3] Shanghai Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200127, China [4] Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
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Regulation of spermatogenesis: An evolutionary biologist's perspective. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2014; 29:2-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2014] [Revised: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2014] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Ramaswamy S, Razack BS, Roslund RM, Suzuki H, Marshall GR, Rajkovic A, Plant TM. Spermatogonial SOHLH1 nucleocytoplasmic shuttling associates with initiation of spermatogenesis in the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta). Mol Hum Reprod 2013; 20:350-7. [PMID: 24324034 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
As the spermatogenesis- and oogenesis-specific basic helix-loop-helix 1 (SOHLH1) transcription factor has been shown to be essential for spermatogonial differentiation in mice, we examined the immunoexpression of this protein in the testis of the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) during puberty, the stage of development when spermatogonial differentiation is initiated in higher primates. Immunopositive SOHLH1 cells were observed only on the basement membrane of the seminiferous cords and tubules. Prior to puberty, essentially 100% of SOHLH1-positive spermatogonia co-expressed the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor family receptor alpha 1 (GFRα1), a marker for undifferentiated spermatogonia, and >80% of the immunopositive SOHLH1 cells exhibited only cytoplasmic staining of this transcription factor. Nuclear-only SOHLH1 was found in <10% of spermatogonia in testes from pre-pubertal animals. Puberty was associated with a dramatic and progressive increase in the percentage of immunopositive SOHLH1 cells with nuclear-only staining, and this was associated with (i) a marked reduction in the fraction (∼100-20%) of SOHLH1-positive germ cells co-expressing GFRα1 and (ii) a significant increase in the proportion of SOHLH1-positive spermatogonia that co-expressed the tyrosine kinase receptor (cKIT). Spermatogonia exhibiting nuclear SOHLH1 staining were found to be cKIT positive, but not all cKIT-positive spermatogonia exhibited nuclear SOHLH1 staining. Taken together, these results suggest that, in the monkey, nuclear location of SOHLH1 is closely associated with spermatogonial differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Ramaswamy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
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Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Oncofertility as a discipline plays an important, adjunctive role in the treatment of male patients with cancer. Despite recommendations by the American Society of Clinical Oncology, many clinicians managing malignancies in males fail to consistently incorporate fertility preservation as a routine aspect of health care. Providers involved in the treatment of oncologic patients should have an awareness of the impact of their prescribed treatments on reproductive potential, just as they would be knowledgeable of the potential deleterious effects of cancer therapies on vital organs such as the kidneys, lungs, and liver. Providers should then have a discussion with their patients regarding these potential adverse therapeutic effects or consult a fertility preservation specialist to discuss these matters and fertility preservation options with the patient. Cryopreservation of sperm remains an excellent option for male fertility preservation as it is readily available and results in storage of viable gametes for future use in the event of post treatment infertility. With the use of assisted reproductive techniques (ART), cryopreserved sperm may ultimately result in successful paternity, even in the setting of very low numbers of stored sperm. While sperm cryopreservation is usually an option for adolescent and adult males, fertility preservation in pre-pubertal males presents a more challenging problem. To date, no clinically proven methods are available to preserve fertility in these males. However, some centers do offer experimental protocols under the oversight of an IRB, such as testicular tissue cryopreservation in these males. The hope is that one day science will provide a mechanism for immature germ cells from the testicular tissue of these patients to be used in vivo or in vitro to facilitate reproduction. In closing, studies have shown that the patient's regard for his provider is enhanced when the issue fertility preservation is raised. While oncologic care is often fraught with time constraints and acute medical concerns, fertility preservation care in the male can typically be administered quickly and without disruption of the overall plan of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Landon W Trost
- Department of Urology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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26
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Majumdar SS, Sarda K, Bhattacharya I, Plant TM. Insufficient androgen and FSH signaling may be responsible for the azoospermia of the infantile primate testes despite exposure to an adult-like hormonal milieu. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2515-25. [PMID: 22669085 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In humans, as well as in other higher primates, the infantile testis is exposed to an adult-like hormonal milieu, but spermatogenesis is not initiated at this stage of primate development. In the present study, we examined the molecular basis of this intriguing infertile state of the primate testis. METHODS The integrity of androgen receptor (AR) and FSH receptor (FSHR) signaling pathways in primary cultures of Sertoli cells (Scs) harvested from azoospermic infant and spermatogenic pubertal monkey testes were investigated under identical in vitro hormonal conditions. In order to synchronously harvest Scs from early pubertal testis, the activation of testicular puberty was timed experimentally by prematurely initiating gonadotrophin secretion in juvenile animals with an intermittent infusion of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone. RESULTS While qRT-PCR demonstrated that AR and FSHR mRNA expression in Scs from infant and pubertal testes were comparable, androgen-binding and FSH-mediated cAMP production by infant Scs was extremely low. Compromised AR and FSHR signaling in infant Scs was further supported by the finding that testosterone (T) and FSH failed to augment the expression of the T responsive gene, claudin 11, and the FSH responsive genes, inhibin-βB, stem cell factor (SCF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in Scs harvested at this stage of development. CONCLUSION These results indicate that compromised AR and FSHR signaling pathways in Scs underlie the inability of the infant primate testis to respond to an endogenous hormonal milieu that later in development, at the time puberty, stimulates the initiation of spermatogenesis. This finding may have relevance to some forms of idiopathic infertility in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subeer S Majumdar
- Division of Cellular Endocrinology, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi 110067, India.
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27
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Haruyama E, Ayukawa Y, Kamura K, Mizutamari M, Ooshima Y, Tanimoto A. Morphometric examination for development of reproductive organs in male cynomolgus monkeys. Toxicol Pathol 2012; 40:918-25. [PMID: 22552395 DOI: 10.1177/0192623312444620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported on a histological classification of cynomolgus monkey testis into six grades (1, immature; 2, prepuberty; 3, onset of puberty; 4, puberty; 5, early adult; 6, adult) based on spermatogenesis development. In this investigation, the accessory reproductive organs from the same animals underwent histomorphometric examination, in addition to being examined histologically and weighed, to evaluate relationships between these parameters and the six grades. Seminiferous tubule diameter increased corresponding to the testicular maturity grade and was notably increased at grade 6. Beginning from grade 3, increases in the areas of the ductus epididymis were noted, and reserved sperm was visible in the lumen. In the prostate, the glandular lumen area per unit area showed an increase beginning from grade 3 but no clear differences between grades 4 and 6; advanced development of epithelial height was observed at grade 6. In the seminal vesicle, development of the epithelial cell layer was markedly increased at grade 6. It was concluded that development of the male accessory reproductive organs began after reserved sperm was observed in the lumen of the ductus epididymis (grade 3) and that these organs were developed notably when the testis reached sexual maturity (grade 6).
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiko Haruyama
- Drug Safety Research Laboratories, Shin Nippon Biomedical Laboratories Ltd., Kagoshima, Japan.
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28
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Lin ZYC, Imamura M, Sano C, Nakajima R, Suzuki T, Yamadera R, Takehara Y, Okano HJ, Sasaki E, Okano H. Molecular signatures to define spermatogenic cells in common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus). Reproduction 2012; 143:597-609. [PMID: 22323619 DOI: 10.1530/rep-11-0215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Germ cell development is a fundamental process required to produce offspring. The developmental program of spermatogenesis has been assumed to be similar among mammals. However, recent studies have revealed differences in the molecular properties of primate germ cells compared with the well-characterized mouse germ cells. This may prevent simple application of rodent insights into higher primates. Therefore, thorough investigation of primate germ cells is necessary, as this may lead to the development of more appropriate animal models. The aim of this study is to define molecular signatures of spermatogenic cells in the common marmoset, Callithrix jacchus. Interestingly, NANOG, PRDM1, DPPA3 (STELLA), IFITM3, and ZP1 transcripts, but no POU5F1 (OCT4), were detected in adult marmoset testis. Conversely, mouse testis expressed Pou5f1 but not Nanog, Prdm1, Dppa3, Ifitm3, and Zp1. Other previously described mouse germ cell markers were conserved in marmoset and mouse testes. Intriguingly, marmoset spermatogenic cells underwent dynamic protein expression in a developmental stage-specific manner; DDX4 (VASA) protein was present in gonocytes, diminished in spermatogonial cells, and reexpressed in spermatocytes. To investigate epigenetic differences between adult marmoset and mice, DNA methylation analyses identified unique epigenetic profiles to marmoset and mice. Marmoset NANOG and POU5F1 promoters in spermatogenic cells exhibited a methylation status opposite to that in mice, while the DDX4 and LEFTY1 loci, as well as imprinted genes, displayed an evolutionarily conserved methylation pattern. Marmosets have great advantages as models for human reproductive biology and are also valuable as experimental nonhuman primates; thus, the current study provides an important platform for primate reproductive biology, including possible applications to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Yu-Ching Lin
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keio University, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
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29
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Simorangkir DR, Ramaswamy S, Marshall GR, Roslund R, Plant TM. Sertoli cell differentiation in rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) is an early event in puberty and precedes attainment of the adult complement of undifferentiated spermatogonia. Reproduction 2012; 143:513-22. [PMID: 22232743 DOI: 10.1530/rep-11-0411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In primates, the time course of Sertoli cell proliferation and differentiation during puberty and its relationship with the expansion of undifferentiated type A spermatogonia that occurs at this critical stage of development are poorly defined. Mid and late juvenile and early and late pubertal male rhesus monkeys were studied. Testes were immersion fixed, embedded in paraffin, and sectioned at 5 μm. Sertoli cell number per testis, S-phase labeling (BrdU), and growth fraction (Ki67 labeling) were determined and correlated with corresponding parameters for undifferentiated type A spermatogonia (A dark and A pale). Dual fluorescence labeling was used in addition to histochemistry to monitor spermatogonial differentiation during the peripubertal period using GFRα-1 and cKIT as markers. While the adult complement of Sertoli cells/testis was attained in early pubertal monkeys after only a few weeks of exposure to the elevated gonadotropin secretion characteristic of this developmental stage, the number of undifferentiated type A spermatogonia several months later in mid pubertal monkeys was only 50% of that in adult testes. Both A dark and A pale spermatogonia exhibited high S-phase BrdU labeling at all stages of juvenile and pubertal development. Spermatogonial differentiation, as reflected histochemically and by relative changes in GFRα-1 and cKIT expression, was not observed until after the initiation of puberty. In the rhesus monkey and maybe in other higher primates including human, the pubertal proliferation of undifferentiated spermatogonia is insidious and proceeds in the wake of a surge in Sertoli cell proliferation following termination of the juvenile stage of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- D R Simorangkir
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
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30
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Hermann BP, Sukhwani M, Salati J, Sheng Y, Chu T, Orwig KE. Separating spermatogonia from cancer cells in contaminated prepubertal primate testis cell suspensions. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:3222-31. [PMID: 22016413 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancer and other diseases can cause male infertility. There are currently no options to preserve the fertility of prepubertal boys who are not yet making sperm. Cryopreservation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs, obtained via testicular biopsy) followed by autologous transplantation back into the testes at a later date may restore fertility in these patients. However, this approach carries an inherent risk of reintroducing cancer. METHODS To address this aspect of SSC transplantation safety, prepubertal non-human primate testis cell suspensions were inoculated with MOLT4 T-lymphoblastic leukemia cells and subsequently sorted for cell surface markers CD90 (THY-1) and CD45. RESULTS Cancer cells segregated to the CD90-/CD45+ fraction and produced tumors in nude mice. Nearly all sorted DEAD box polypeptide 4-positive (VASA+) spermatogonia segregated to the CD90+/CD45- fraction. In a preliminary experiment, a purity check of the sorted putative stem cell fraction (CD90+/CD45-) revealed 0.1% contamination with cancer cells, which was sufficient to produce tumors in nude mice. We hypothesized that the contamination resulted from mis-sorting due to cell clumping and employed singlet discrimination (SD) in four subsequent experiments. Purity checks revealed no cancer cell contamination in the CD90+/CD45- fraction from three of the four SD replicates and these fractions produced no tumors when transplanted into nude mouse testes. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that spermatogonia can be separated from contaminating malignant cells by fluorescence-activated cell sorting prior to SSC transplantation and that post-sorting purity checks are required to confirm elimination of malignant cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian P Hermann
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
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31
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Izadyar F, Wong J, Maki C, Pacchiarotti J, Ramos T, Howerton K, Yuen C, Greilach S, Zhao HH, Chow M, Chow YC, Rao J, Barritt J, Bar-Chama N, Copperman A. Identification and characterization of repopulating spermatogonial stem cells from the adult human testis. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:1296-306. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
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32
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Bonagura TW, Zhou H, Babischkin JS, Pepe GJ, Albrecht ED. Expression of P-450 aromatase, estrogen receptor α and β, and α-inhibin in the fetal baboon testis after estrogen suppression during the second half of gestation. Endocrine 2011; 39:75-82. [PMID: 21061091 PMCID: PMC3381799 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-010-9414-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2010] [Accepted: 10/04/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Expression of the molecules that modulate the synthesis and action of estrogen in, or reflect function of, Sertoli cells was determined in the fetal testis of baboons in which estrogen levels were suppressed in the second half of gestation to determine whether this may account for the previously reported alteration in fetal testis germ cell development. P-450 aromatase, estrogen receptor (ER) β, and α-inhibin protein assessed by immunocytochemistry was abundantly expressed in Sertoli cells of the fetal baboon testis, but unaltered in baboons in which estrogen levels were suppressed by letrozole administration. Moreover, P-450 aromatase and ERα and β mRNA levels, assessed by real-time RT-PCR, were similar in germ/Sertoli cells and interstitial cells isolated from the fetal testis of untreated and letrozole-treated baboons. These results indicate that expression of the proteins that modulate the formation and action of estrogen in, and function of, Sertoli cells is not responsible for the changes in germ cell development in the fetal testis of estrogen-deprived baboons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W. Bonagura
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Sciences, and Physiology, Center for Studies in Reproduction, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Bressler Research Laboratories 11-019, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Hui Zhou
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Sciences, and Physiology, Center for Studies in Reproduction, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Bressler Research Laboratories 11-019, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Jeffery S. Babischkin
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Sciences, and Physiology, Center for Studies in Reproduction, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Bressler Research Laboratories 11-019, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Gerald J. Pepe
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Eugene D. Albrecht
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Sciences, and Physiology, Center for Studies in Reproduction, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Bressler Research Laboratories 11-019, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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Albert S, Ehmcke J, Wistuba J, Eildermann K, Behr R, Schlatt S, Gromoll J. Germ cell dynamics in the testis of the postnatal common marmoset monkey (Callithrix jacchus). Reproduction 2010; 140:733-42. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The seminiferous epithelium in the nonhuman primate Callithrix jacchus is similarly organized to man. This monkey has therefore been used as a preclinical model for spermatogenesis and testicular stem cell physiology. However, little is known about the developmental dynamics of germ cells in the postnatal primate testis. In this study, we analyzed testes of newborn, 8-week-old, and adult marmosets employing immunohistochemistry using pluripotent stem cell and germ cell markers DDX4 (VASA), POU5F1 (OCT3/4), and TFAP2C (AP-2γ). Stereological and morphometric techniques were applied for quantitative analysis of germ cell populations and testicular histological changes. Quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) of testicular mRNA was applied using 16 marker genes establishing the corresponding profiles during postnatal testicular development. Testis size increased during the first 8 weeks of life with the main driver being longitudinal outgrowth of seminiferous cords. The number of DDX4-positive cells per testis doubled between birth and 8 weeks of age whereas TFAP2C- and POU5F1-positive cells remained unchanged. This increase in DDX4-expressing cells indicates dynamic growth of the differentiated A-spermatogonial population. The presence of cells expressing POU5F1 and TFAP2C after 8 weeks reveals the persistence of less differentiated germ cells. The mRNA and protein profiles determined by qRT-PCR and western blot in newborn, 8-week-old, and adult marmosets corroborated the immunohistochemical findings. In conclusion, we demonstrated the presence of distinct spermatogonial subpopulations in the primate testis exhibiting different dynamics during early testicular development. Our study demonstrates the suitability of the marmoset testis as a model for human testicular development.
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Plant TM. Undifferentiated primate spermatogonia and their endocrine control. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2010; 21:488-95. [PMID: 20359909 PMCID: PMC2896565 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2010.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2009] [Revised: 02/25/2010] [Accepted: 03/02/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The biology of spermatogonial stem cells is currently an area of intensive research and contemporary studies in primates are emerging. Quantitative regulation of sperm output by the primate testis seems to be exerted primarily on the transition from undifferentiated to differentiating spermatogonia. This review examines recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms governing spermatogonial renewal and early differentiation in male primates, with a focus on the monkey. Emerging revisions to the classic view of dark and pale type A spermatogonia as reserve and renewing spermatogonial stem cells, respectively, are critically evaluated and essential features of endocrine control of undifferentiated spermatogonia throughout postnatal primate development are discussed. Obstacles in gaining a more complete understanding of primate spermatogonia are also identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony M Plant
- University of Pittsburgh, Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Avenue, Rm. B311, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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35
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Schlatt S, Ehmcke J, Jahnukainen K. Testicular stem cells for fertility preservation: preclinical studies on male germ cell transplantation and testicular grafting. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009; 53:274-80. [PMID: 19415740 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.22002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells open novel strategies for preservation of testicular tissue and fertility preservation in boys and men exposed to gonadotoxic therapies. This review provides an update on the physiology of spermatogonial stem cells in rodent and primate testes. Species-specific differences must be considered when new technologies on testicular stem cells are considered. Germ cell transplantation is presented as one novel and promising strategy. Whereas this technique has become an important research tool in rodents, a clinical application must still be regarded as experimental and many aspects of the procedure need to be optimized prior to a safe and efficient clinical application in men. Testicular grafting opens another exciting strategy for fertility preservation. Autologous and xenologous transfer of immature tissue revealed a high regenerative potential of immature testicular tissue. Grafting was applied in rodents and primates and resulted in the generation of sperm. Further research is needed before an application in humans can be considered safe and efficient. Despite the current limitations in regard to the generation of sperm from cryopreserved male germline cells and tissues, protocols for cryopreservation of testicular tissue are available and reveal a promising outcome. Since future improvements of germ cell transplantation and grafting approaches can be assumed, bioptic retrieval and cryopreservation of testicular tissue fragments should be performed in oncological patients at high risk of fertility loss since this is their only option to maintain their fertility potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Schlatt
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
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36
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Albrecht ED, Lane MV, Marshall GR, Merchenthaler I, Simorangkir DR, Pohl CR, Plant TM, Pepe GJ. Estrogen promotes germ cell and seminiferous tubule development in the baboon fetal testis. Biol Reprod 2009; 81:406-14. [PMID: 19403930 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.073494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The foundation for development of the male reproduction system occurs in utero, but relatively little is known about the regulation of primate fetal testis maturation. Our laboratories have shown that estrogen regulates key aspects of the physiology of pregnancy and fetal development. Therefore, in the present study, we characterized and quantified germ cells and Sertoli cells in the fetal baboon testis in late normal gestation (i.e., Day 165; term is 184 days) and in baboons administered the aromatase inhibitor letrozole throughout the second half of gestation to assess the impact of endogenous estrogen on fetal testis development. In untreated baboons, the seminiferous cords were comprised of undifferentiated (i.e., type A) spermatogonia classified by their morphology as dark (Ad) or pale (Ap), gonocytes (precursors of type A spermatogonia), unidentified cells (UI), and Sertoli cells. In letrozole-treated baboons, serum estradiol levels were decreased by 95%. The number per milligram of fetal testis (x10(4)) of Ad spermatogonia (0.42 +/- 0.11) was 45% lower (P = 0.03), and that of gonocytes (0.58 +/- 0.06) and UI (0.45 +/- 0.12) was twofold greater (P < 0.01 and P = 0.06, respectively), than in untreated baboons. Moreover, in the seminiferous cords of estrogen-deprived baboons, the basement membrane appeared fragmented, the germ cells and Sertoli cells appeared disorganized, and vacuoles were present. We conclude that endogenous estrogen promotes fetal testis development and that the changes in the germ cell population in the estrogen-deprived baboon fetus may impair spermatogenesis and fertility in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene D Albrecht
- Department of Obstetrics, Center for Studies in Reproduction, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA.
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37
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Hermann BP, Sukhwani M, Simorangkir DR, Chu T, Plant TM, Orwig KE. Molecular dissection of the male germ cell lineage identifies putative spermatogonial stem cells in rhesus macaques. Hum Reprod 2009; 24:1704-16. [PMID: 19336441 PMCID: PMC2698327 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) pool in the testes of non-human primates is poorly defined. METHODS To begin characterizing SSCs in rhesus macaque testes, we employed fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), a xenotransplant bioassay and immunohistochemical methods and correlated our findings with classical descriptions of germ cell nuclear morphology (i.e. Adark and Apale spermatogonia). RESULTS FACS analysis identified a THY-1+ fraction of rhesus testis cells that was enriched for consensus SSC markers (i.e. PLZF, GFRα1) and exhibited enhanced colonizing activity upon transplantation to nude mouse testes. We observed a substantial conservation of spermatogonial markers from mice to monkeys [PLZF, GFRα1, Neurogenin 3 (NGN3), cKIT]. Assuming that molecular characteristics correlate with function, the pool of putative SSCs (THY-1+, PLZF+, GFRα1+, NGN3+/−, cKIT−) comprises most Adark and Apale and is considerably larger in primates than in rodents. It is noteworthy that the majority of Adark and Apale share a common molecular phenotype, considering their distinct functional classifications as reserve and renewing stem cells, respectively. NGN3 is absent from Adark, but is expressed by some Apale and may mark the transition from undifferentiated (cKIT−) to differentiating (cKIT+) spermatogonia. Finally, the pool of transit-amplifying progenitor spermatogonia (PLZF+, GFRα1+, NGN3+, cKIT+/−) is smaller in primates than in rodents. CONCLUSIONS These results provide an in-depth analysis of molecular characteristics of primate spermatogonia, including SSCs, and lay a foundation for future studies investigating the kinetics of spermatogonial renewal, clonal expansion and differentiation during primate spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian P Hermann
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
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38
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Simorangkir DR, Marshall GR, Plant TM. A re-examination of proliferation and differentiation of type A spermatogonia in the adult rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta). Hum Reprod 2009; 24:1596-604. [PMID: 19282325 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Companion studies using an experimental non-human primate paradigm known as a testicular clamp indicated that the behavior of undifferentiated type A spermatogonia did not conform fully to earlier classical models. This issue was therefore re-examined in normal monkeys. METHODS Adult male rhesus monkeys (n = 4) received an i.v. bolus of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU): one testis (first) was removed 3 h later and the remaining testis (second) was removed after 11 days and 3 h. Tissue was fixed in Bouin's solution, and numbers of A dark (Ad), small A pale (Aps) and large A pale spermatogonia, differentiating B spermatogonia, S-phase-labeled and degenerating cells were enumerated. Data are given as mean +/- SEM. RESULTS During the early stages of the seminiferous epithelial cycle in the first testis, Ap spermatogonia (1.3 cells/cross section) were predominantly Aps (nuclear dia., 7.1 +/- 0.1 microm). Aps were never S-phase labeled. Apl (nuclear dia., 8.8 +/- 0.5 microm) appeared in Stages IV-VI and were maximal in Stages VII-X when S-phase labeling of this phenotype at 3 h was greatest. The first generation of B spermatogonia appeared in Stages XI-XII (0.84 cells/cross section). Using cells/cross section, the ratio of Ap (Stages I-V):B1:B2:B3:B4:preleptotene spermatocyte was 1:0.7:1.4:2.8:5.6:11.2. In the second testis, labeled Aps (and Apl) were observed. Ad were not BrdU labeled, and degenerating cells were rarely observed. CONCLUSIONS The results are not entirely consistent with earlier models of spermatogonial proliferation and differentiation in the monkey. Most notably, our findings suggest that in any one cycle of the seminiferous epithelium only a fraction of Ap spermatogonia is mitotically active.
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Affiliation(s)
- D R Simorangkir
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Maki CB, Pacchiarotti J, Ramos T, Pascual M, Pham J, Kinjo J, Anorve S, Izadyar F. Phenotypic and molecular characterization of spermatogonial stem cells in adult primate testes. Hum Reprod 2009; 24:1480-91. [PMID: 19246463 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge about the identity and characteristics of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in human is very limited. Here, Rhesus monkey was used as an animal model to investigate molecular and phenotypic characteristics of SSCs in the adult testes. METHODS A variety of immunohistological, molecular biological and functional assays were used to study different populations of SSCs in the adult testes. RESULTS In adult primate testes, there are distinct populations of CD90+ CD49f+ CD117- (Triple Stained) cells and a small population of stage-specific embryonic antigen-4 (SSEA-4)+ cells which both localized at the basement membrane of seminiferous tubules. Both SSEA-4+ and Triple Stained cells express germ cell and SSC-specific markers and show high telomerase activity; however, only adult Rhesus monkey SSEA-4+ testis cells appear to contain functional and actively dividing SSCs that can repopulate recipient mouse testes following spermatogonial transplantation. DNA analysis of these populations showed that SSEA-4+ cells contain a DNA profile similar to the actively dividing cells, whereas Triple Stained cells showed an accumulated number of cells arrested in the S phase of the cell cycle. SSEA-4+ cells also showed significantly higher proliferation activity, as shown by proliferating cell nuclear antigen staining, than Triple Stained cells (P < 0.01). Interestingly, SSEA-4+ cells expressed a significantly higher level of promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger, a factor required for SSC self-renewal, than Triple Stained cells (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that Triple Stained cells may represent a quiescent population of SSCs, whereas SSEA-4 might be expressed on a subpopulation of actively dividing SSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad B Maki
- PrimeGen Biotech, 213 Technology Drive, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
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Hermann BP, Sukhwani M, Lin CC, Sheng Y, Tomko J, Rodriguez M, Shuttleworth JJ, McFarland D, Hobbs RM, Pandolfi PP, Schatten GP, Orwig KE. Characterization, cryopreservation, and ablation of spermatogonial stem cells in adult rhesus macaques. Stem Cells 2007; 25:2330-8. [PMID: 17585169 PMCID: PMC3593092 DOI: 10.1634/stemcells.2007-0143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are at the foundation of mammalian spermatogenesis. Whereas rare A(single) spermatogonia comprise the rodent SSC pool, primate spermatogenesis arises from more abundant A(dark) and A(pale) spermatogonia, and the identity of the stem cell is subject to debate. The fundamental differences between these models highlight the need to investigate the biology of primate SSCs, which have greater relevance to human physiology. The alkylating chemotherapeutic agent, busulfan, ablates spermatogenesis in rodents and causes infertility in humans. We treated adult rhesus macaques with busulfan to gain insights about its effects on SSCs and spermatogenesis. Busulfan treatment caused acute declines in testis volume and sperm counts, indicating a disruption of spermatogenesis. One year following high-dose busulfan treatment, sperm counts remained undetectable, and testes were depleted of germ cells. Similar to rodents, rhesus spermatogonia expressed markers of germ cells (VASA, DAZL) and stem/progenitor spermatogonia (PLZF and GFRalpha1), and cells expressing these markers were depleted following high-dose busulfan treatment. Furthermore, fresh or cryopreserved germ cells from normal rhesus testes produced colonies of spermatogonia, which persisted as chains on the basement membrane of mouse seminiferous tubules in the primate to nude mouse xenotransplant assay. In contrast, testis cells from animals that received high-dose busulfan produced no colonies. These studies provide basic information about rhesus SSC activity and the impact of busulfan on the stem cell pool. In addition, the germ cell-depleted testis model will enable autologous/homologous transplantation to study stem cell/niche interactions in nonhuman primate testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian P. Hermann
- Department of Ob/Gyn & Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260 USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260 USA
- Department of Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260 USA
- Pittsburgh Development Center, Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Meena Sukhwani
- Pittsburgh Development Center, Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Chih-Cheng Lin
- Pittsburgh Development Center, Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Yi Sheng
- Pittsburgh Development Center, Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Jamie Tomko
- Pittsburgh Development Center, Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Mario Rodriguez
- Pittsburgh Development Center, Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Jennifer J. Shuttleworth
- Pittsburgh Development Center, Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - David McFarland
- Pittsburgh Development Center, Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Robin M. Hobbs
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program and Department of Pathology, Sloan-Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Pier Paolo Pandolfi
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program and Department of Pathology, Sloan-Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Gerald P. Schatten
- Department of Ob/Gyn & Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260 USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260 USA
- Pittsburgh Development Center, Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Kyle E. Orwig
- Department of Ob/Gyn & Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260 USA
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260 USA
- Department of Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260 USA
- Pittsburgh Development Center, Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
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Ehmcke J, Schlatt S. A revised model for spermatogonial expansion in man: lessons from non-human primates. Reproduction 2006; 132:673-80. [PMID: 17071768 DOI: 10.1530/rep.1.01081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
We have recently described a revised scheme for spermatogonial expansion in non-human primates. We proposed that Apale-spermatogonia act as self-renewing progenitors and premeiotic germ cells are organized and divide as small clones. Here, we are revisiting the model described for man and propose a modified scheme for spermatogonial expansion. Our revised model shows high similarity to the scheme proposed for non-human primates and is in accordance with all previous and present data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Ehmcke
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, W952 Biomedical Sciences Tower, 3500 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
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Soriano-Guillen L, Mitchell V, Carel JC, Barbet P, Roger M, Lahlou N. Activating mutations in the luteinizing hormone receptor gene: a human model of non-follicle-stimulating hormone-dependent inhibin production and germ cell maturation. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2006; 91:3041-7. [PMID: 16684832 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2005-2564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Familial male-limited precocious puberty is a dominant autosomal genetic disease caused by activating LH receptor gene mutations, clinically expressed only in males. In preliminary studies, in addition to the expected testosterone increase, we found high inhibin B levels before the age of normal puberty. OBJECTIVES The objective of the study was to assess the cellular origin of serum inhibin thanks to testis section immunostaining. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Serum testosterone, gonadotropin, inhibin B, pan-alphaC-inhibin, and anti-Mullerian hormone levels were measured. Immunostaining was performed using specific anti-alpha- and anti-beta-subunit antibodies. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Five boys from three families (mutation M398T or I542L) were investigated at onset (2-6 yr), on ketoconazole treatment, and at adolescence. Testis biopsies were performed in three subjects before the disease was fully characterized. RESULTS The high testosterone levels were suppressed by ketoconazole. Anti-Mullerian hormone levels were inversely related to testosterone: low at diagnosis, elevated after testosterone suppression. Despite FSH suppression, inhibin B and pan-alphaC-inhibin levels were high from clinical onset to adolescence. Biopsy specimens showed normal Sertoli cell complement and germ cell maturation until the spermatocyte II stage. Sertoli and Leydig cells displayed positive inhibin alpha-subunit immunostaining. Only Leydig cells and spermatogonia stained positively for the inhibin betaB-subunit. CONCLUSIONS Familial male-limited precocious puberty is a unique model of inhibin B secretion, demonstrating that Leydig cells can produce significant amounts of the dimeric molecule. Our results also suggest that the pubertal FSH rise is not required for full expression of the two inhibin B genes and for the initiation of germ cell maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro Soriano-Guillen
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Cochin Saint Vincent de Paul, 82 avenue Denfert-Rochereau, 75014 Paris, France
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Plant TM, Ramaswamy S, Simorangkir D, Marshall GR. Postnatal and pubertal development of the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) testis. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2006; 1061:149-62. [PMID: 16467264 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1336.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This review examines the neurobiology, endocrinology, and cell biology underlying the development of the testis from birth until puberty in the rhesus monkey, a representative higher primate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony M Plant
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, 3550 Terrace Street, Rm. 828 Scaife Hall, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
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Jahnukainen K, Ehmcke J, Schlatt S. Testicular xenografts: a novel approach to study cytotoxic damage in juvenile primate testis. Cancer Res 2006; 66:3813-8. [PMID: 16585208 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-05-3754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The underlying primary damage to the testis caused by chemotherapeutic regimens during childhood is largely unknown. Xenografting of monkey testes was successfully applied in maturation of juvenile testis to the point of complete spermatogenesis. This allows us to manipulate developing primate testis without direct treatment of patients. This new model is validated establishing the effects of cytotoxic treatment in the immature primate testis. Male castrated nude mice received eight s.c. grafts of juvenile monkey testicular tissue and, 28 weeks later, were injected with busulfan (38 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle. Graft numbers, size, and histology were examined. Grafts showed pubertal induction of spermatogenesis to the level of pachytene spermatocytes at point of busulfan treatment and further progressed to the level of round spermatids in control samples at 4 weeks. Busulfan treatment caused a statistically significant decrease in the number of seminiferous tubules containing germ cells. Type B spermatogonia and more advanced stages of spermatogenesis were depleted. A statistically significant decrease to pretreatment level was observed in the number of type A pale and centrally located spermatogonia. Busulfan did not affect type A dark spermatogonia. Occasionally, elongating spermatids were detected in busulfan-treated grafts. Observations show that busulfan selectively destroys differentiating spermatogonia whereas some of the spermatocytes present at the moment of cytotoxic insult are able to continue differentiation. Data indicate that xenografting of testicular monkey tissue is a valid approach to detect the busulfan-induced germ cell damage and serves as a powerful experimental tool to study cytotoxic effects in developing primate testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsi Jahnukainen
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
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Ehmcke J, Wistuba J, Schlatt S. Spermatogonial stem cells: questions, models and perspectives. Hum Reprod Update 2006; 12:275-82. [PMID: 16446319 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmk001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This review looks into the phylogeny of spermatogonial stem cells and describes their basic biological features. We are focusing on species-specific differences of spermatogonial stem cell physiology. We propose revised models for the clonal expansion of spermatogonia and for the potential existence of true stem cells and progenitors in primates but not in rodents. We create a new model for the species-specific arrangements of spermatogenic stages which may depend on the variable clonal expansion patterns. We also provide a brief overview of germ cell transplantation as a powerful tool for basic research and its potential use in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Ehmcke
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
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