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Wei M, Yu Q, Li E, Zhao Y, Sun C, Li H, Liu Z, Ji G. Ace Deficiency Induces Intestinal Inflammation in Zebrafish. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5598. [PMID: 38891786 PMCID: PMC11172040 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115598] [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: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a nonspecific chronic inflammatory disease resulting from an immune disorder in the intestine that is prone to relapse and incurable. The understanding of the pathogenesis of IBD remains unclear. In this study, we found that ace (angiotensin-converting enzyme), expressed abundantly in the intestine, plays an important role in IBD. The deletion of ace in zebrafish caused intestinal inflammation with increased expression of the inflammatory marker genes interleukin 1 beta (il1b), matrix metallopeptidase 9 (mmp9), myeloid-specific peroxidase (mpx), leukocyte cell-derived chemotaxin-2-like (lect2l), and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 8b (cxcl8b). Moreover, the secretion of mucus in the ace-/- mutants was significantly higher than that in the wild-type zebrafish, validating the phenotype of intestinal inflammation. This was further confirmed by the IBD model constructed using dextran sodium sulfate (DSS), in which the mutant zebrafish had a higher susceptibility to enteritis. Our study reveals the role of ace in intestinal homeostasis, providing a new target for potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxia Wei
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (M.W.); (Q.Y.)
| | - Qinqing Yu
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (M.W.); (Q.Y.)
| | - Enguang Li
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (M.W.); (Q.Y.)
| | - Yibing Zhao
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (M.W.); (Q.Y.)
| | - Chen Sun
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (M.W.); (Q.Y.)
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education), Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Hongyan Li
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (M.W.); (Q.Y.)
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education), Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Zhenhui Liu
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (M.W.); (Q.Y.)
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education), Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Guangdong Ji
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (M.W.); (Q.Y.)
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education), Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
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Liu BY, Zhang BL, Gao DY, Li Q, Xu XY, Shum W. Epididymal epithelial degeneration and lipid metabolism impairment account for male infertility in occludin knockout mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1069319. [PMID: 36518247 PMCID: PMC9742356 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1069319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Occludin (OCLN) is a tight junction protein and Ocln deletion mutation causes male infertility in mice. However, the role of OCLN in male reproductive system remains unknown. In this study, we used an interdisciplinary approach to elucidate the underlying mechanism of male infertility in related to OCLN function, including Ocln knockout mice as well as a combined omics analysis and immunofluorescent labelling. Our results showed that the epididymis of Ocln-null mice displayed a phenomenon resembling epididymal sperm granuloma, which occurred especially in the junctional region between caput and corpus epididymidis. Sperm motility and fertilisation capacity were also impaired in these Ocln-null mice, accompanied by enlarged tubules in the proximal regions and degeneration in the distal regions of epididymis. Cellular localization analysis showed that OCLN immunofluorescence was enriched only in the apical junction of epithelial principal cells in the proximal regions of epididymis. Integrative omics analysis revealed the downregulation of gene clusters enriched in acid secretion and fatty acid metabolism in the Ocln-null epididymis, especially the enzymes related to the unsaturated arachidonic acid pathway. The number of proton-pump V-ATPase-expression clear cells, a key player of luminal acidification in the epididymis, declined drastically from prepubertal age before sperm arrival but not in the early postnatal age. This was accompanied by programmed cell death of clear cells and increased pH in the epididymal fluid of OCLN-deficient mice. The lipidomics results showed significantly increased levels of specific DAGs conjugated to unsaturated fatty acids in the Ocln-mutant. Immunofluorescent labelling showed that the arachidonic acid converting enzyme PTGDS and phospholipase PLA2g12a were prominently altered in the principal cells and luminal contents of the Ocln-mutant epididymis. Whereas the carboxylate ester lipase CES1, originally enriched in the WT basal cells, was found upregulated in the Ocln-mutant principal cells. Overall, this study demonstrates that OCLN is essential for maintaining caput-to-corpus epithelial integrity, survival of acid-secreting clear cells, and unsaturated fatty acid catabolism in the mouse epididymis, thereby ensuring sperm maturation and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao Ying Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bao Li Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Da Yuan Gao
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qing Li
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Yu Xu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Winnie Shum
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Winnie Shum,
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Schimming BC, Martins LL, de Oliveira FS, Pinheiro PFF, Domeniconi RF. Morphology and immunolocalization of aquaporins 1 and 9 in the agouti ( Dasyprocta azarae) testis excurrent ducts. Anim Reprod 2021; 18:e20210070. [PMID: 34840612 PMCID: PMC8607849 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2021-0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the morphology and immunoexpression of aquaporins (AQPs) 1 and 9 in the rete testis, efferent ducts, epididymis, and vas deferens in the Azara's agouti (Dasyprocta azarae). For this purpose, ten adult sexually mature animals were used in histologic and immunohistochemical analyses. The Azara's agouti rete testis was labyrinthine and lined with simple cubic epithelium. Ciliated and non-ciliated cells were observed in the epithelium of the efferent ducts. The epididymal cellular population was composed of principal, basal, apical, clear, narrow, and halo cells. The epithelium lining of vas deferens was composed of the principal and basal cells. AQPs 1 and 9 were not expressed in the rete testis. Positive reaction to AQP1 was observed at the luminal border of non-ciliated cells of the efferent ducts, and in the peritubular stroma and blood vessels in the epididymis, and vas deferens. AQP9 was immunolocalized in the epithelial cells in the efferent ducts, epididymis and vas deferens. The morphology of Azara's agouti testis excurrent ducts is similar to that reported for other rodents such as Cuniculus paca. The immunolocalization results of the AQPs suggest that the expression of AQPs is species-specific due to differences in localization and expression when compared to studies in other mammals species. The knowledge about the expression of AQPs in Azara's agouti testis excurrent ducts is essential to support future reproductive studies on this animal, since previous studies show that AQPs may be biomarkers of male fertility and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Cesar Schimming
- Departamento de Anatomia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Leandro Luis Martins
- Departamento de Anatomia, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brasil
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Gòdia M, Casellas J, Ruiz-Herrera A, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Castelló A, Sánchez A, Clop A. Whole genome sequencing identifies allelic ratio distortion in sperm involving genes related to spermatogenesis in a swine model. DNA Res 2021; 27:5906030. [PMID: 32931559 PMCID: PMC7750926 DOI: 10.1093/dnares/dsaa019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Transmission Ratio Distortion (TRD), the uneven transmission of an allele from a parent to its offspring, can be caused by allelic differences affecting gametogenesis, fertilization or embryogenesis. However, TRD remains vaguely studied at a genomic scale. We sequenced the diploid and haploid genomes of three boars from leukocytes and spermatozoa at 50x to shed light into the genetic basis of spermatogenesis-caused Allelic Ratio Distortion (ARD). We first developed a Binomial model to identify ARD by simultaneously analysing all three males. This led to the identification of 55 ARD SNPs, most of which were animal-specific. We then evaluated ARD individually within each pig by a Fisher’s exact test and identified two shared genes (TOP3A and UNC5B) and four shared genomic regions harbouring distinct ARD SNPs in the three boars. The shared genomic regions contained candidate genes with functions related to spermatogenesis including AK7, ARID4B, BDKRB2, GSK3B, NID1, NSMCE1, PALB2, VRK1 and ZC3H13. Using the Fisher’s test, we also identified 378 genes containing variants with protein damaging potential in at least one boar, a high proportion of which, including FAM120B, TDRD15, JAM2 or AOX4 among others, are associated to spermatogenesis. Overall, our results show that sperm is subjected to ARD with variants associated to a wide variety of genes involved in different stages of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Gòdia
- Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Joaquim Casellas
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Aurora Ruiz-Herrera
- Departament de Biologia Cel.lular, Fisiologia i Immunologia, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia 08193, Spain.,Genome Integrity and Instability Group, Institut de Biotecnologia i Biomedicina (IBB), Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Joan E Rodríguez-Gil
- Unit of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Anna Castelló
- Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia 08193, Spain.,Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Armand Sánchez
- Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia 08193, Spain.,Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Alex Clop
- Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia 08193, Spain.,Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Catalonia 08003, Spain
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5
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Niu J, Song W, Li R, Yu H, Guan J, Qi J, He Y. The Bdkrb2 gene family provides a novel view of viviparity adaptation in Sebastes schlegelii. BMC Ecol Evol 2021; 21:44. [PMID: 33731008 PMCID: PMC7968187 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-021-01774-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii) is a viviparous teleost. We proposed that the rockfish ovarian wall had a similar function to the uterus of mammals previously. In the present study, the well-developed vascular system was observed in the ovarian wall and the exterior surface of the egg membrane. In gestation, adaptation of the ovary vasculature to the rising needs of the embryos occurs through both vasodilation and neovascularization. Bdkrb2, encoding a receptor for bradykinin, plays a critical role in the control of vasodilatation by regulating nitric oxide production. RESULTS Eight Bdkrb2 genes were identified in the black rockfish genome. These genes were located on chromosome 14, which are arranged in a tandem array, forming a gene cluster spanning 50 kb. Protein structure prediction, phylogenetic analysis, and transcriptome analysis showed that eight Bdkrb2 genes evolved two kinds of protein structure and three types of tissue expression pattern. Overexpression of two Bdkrb2 genes in zebrafish indicated a role of them in blood vessel formation or remodeling, which is an important procedure for the viviparous rockfish getting prepared for fertilization and embryos implantation. CONCLUSIONS Our study characterizes eight Bdrkb2 genes in the black rockfish, which may contribute to preparation for fertilization and embryo implantation. This research provides a novel view of viviparity adaptation and lays the groundwork for future research into vascular regulation of ovarian tissue in the breeding cycle in black rockfish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Niu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Weihao Song
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Rui Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Haiyang Yu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Jian Guan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Jie Qi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Yan He
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China.
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6
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Zhang D, Wang Y, Lin H, Sun Y, Wang M, Jia Y, Yu X, Jiang H, Xu W, Sun JP, Xu Z. Function and therapeutic potential of G protein-coupled receptors in epididymis. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:5489-5508. [PMID: 32901914 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility rates for both females and males have increased continuously in recent years. Currently, effective treatments for male infertility with defined mechanisms or targets are still lacking. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest class of drug targets, but their functions and the implications for the therapeutic development for male infertility largely remain elusive. Nevertheless, recent studies have shown that several members of the GPCR superfamily play crucial roles in the maintenance of ion-water homeostasis of the epididymis, development of the efferent ductules, formation of the blood-epididymal barrier and maturation of sperm. Knowledge of the functions, genetic variations and working mechanisms of such GPCRs, along with the drugs and ligands relevant to their specific functions, provide future directions and a great arsenal for new developments in the treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daolai Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China.,Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yanfei Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hui Lin
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yujing Sun
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Mingwei Wang
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingli Jia
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Yu
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenming Xu
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University West China Second University Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin-Peng Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China.,Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhigang Xu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China.,Shandong Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
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Bernet A, Bastien A, Soulet D, Jerczynski O, Roy C, Bianchi Rodrigues Alves M, Lecours C, Tremblay MÈ, Bailey JL, Robert C, Belleannée C. Cell-lineage specificity of primary cilia during postnatal epididymal development. Hum Reprod 2018; 33:1829-1838. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Agathe Bernet
- Université Laval, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, CHU de Quebec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alexandre Bastien
- Université Laval, Department of Animal Sciences, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Denis Soulet
- Université Laval, Faculty of Pharmacy, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Olivia Jerczynski
- Université Laval, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, CHU de Quebec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christian Roy
- Université Laval, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, CHU de Quebec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Maira Bianchi Rodrigues Alves
- Université Laval, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, CHU de Quebec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Cynthia Lecours
- Université Laval, Faculty of Pharmacy, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
- Université Laval, Department of Molecular Medicine, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Ève Tremblay
- Université Laval, Department of Molecular Medicine, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Janice L Bailey
- Université Laval, Department of Animal Sciences, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Claude Robert
- Université Laval, Department of Animal Sciences, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Clémence Belleannée
- Université Laval, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, CHU de Quebec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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Chauvigné F, Parhi J, Ducat C, Ollé J, Finn RN, Cerdà J. The cellular localization and redistribution of multiple aquaporin paralogs in the spermatic duct epithelium of a maturing marine teleost. J Anat 2018; 233:177-192. [PMID: 29806093 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Aquaporin-mediated fluid transport in the mammalian efferent duct and epididymis is believed to play a role in sperm maturation and concentration. In fish, such as the marine teleost gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata), the control of fluid homeostasis in the spermatic duct seems also to be crucial for male fertility, but no information exists on the expression and distribution of aquaporins. In this study, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting analyses, employing available and newly raised paralog-specific antibodies for seabream aquaporins, indicate that up to nine functional aquaporins, Aqp0a, -1aa, -1ab, -3a, -4a, -7, -8bb, -9b and -10b, are expressed in the spermatic duct. Immunolocalization of the channels in the resting spermatic duct reveals that Aqp0a, -1aa, -4a, -7 and -10b are expressed in the monolayered luminal epithelium, Aqp8b and -9b in smooth muscle fibers, and Aqp1ab and -3a in different interstitial lamina cells. In the epithelial cells, Aqp0a and -1aa are localized in the short apical microvilli, and Aqp4a and -10b show apical and basolateral staining, whereas Aqp7 is solely detected in vesicular compartments. Upon spermiation, an elongation of the epithelial cells sterocilia, as well as the folding of the epithelium, is observed. At this stage, single- and double-immunostaining, using two aquaporin paralogs or the Na+ /K+ -ATPase membrane marker, indicate that Aqp1ab, -3a, -7, -8bb and -9b staining remains unchanged, whereas in epithelial cells Aqp1aa translation is supressed, Aqp4a internalizes, and Aqp0a and -10b accumulate in the apical, lateral and basal plasma membrane. These findings uncover a cell type- and region-specific distribution of multiple aquaporins in the piscine spermatic duct, which shares conserved features of the mammalian system. The data therefore suggest that aquaporins may play different roles in the regulation of fluid homeostasis and sperm maturation in the male reproductive tract of fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Chauvigné
- Group of Comparative Molecular Physiology, IRTA-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Janmejay Parhi
- Fish Genetics and Reproduction Department, College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Lembucherra, Tripura, India
| | - Carla Ducat
- Group of Comparative Molecular Physiology, IRTA-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judith Ollé
- Group of Comparative Molecular Physiology, IRTA-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roderick Nigel Finn
- Group of Comparative Molecular Physiology, IRTA-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Biological Sciences, Bergen High Technology Centre, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Joan Cerdà
- Group of Comparative Molecular Physiology, IRTA-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
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Key factors enhancing sperm fertilizing ability are transferred from the epididymis to the spermatozoa via epididymosomes in the domestic cat model. J Assist Reprod Genet 2017; 35:221-228. [PMID: 29134478 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-017-1083-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Spermatozoa undergo critical changes in structure and function during the epididymal transit. Our previous studies in the domestic cat demonstrated that incidence of cenexin-a key protein involved in the centrosomal maturation-progressively increases in sperm cells from caput to cauda epididymidis. The objectives of the study were to (1) characterize mechanisms involved in transferring key factors-using the cenexin as a marker-between the epididymis and maturing sperm cells and (2) demonstrate the impact of such mechanisms on the acquisition of functional properties by spermatozoa. METHODS Epididymides were dissected from adult cat testes to assess the presence and localization of cenexin in testicular tissues and each epididymal segment (caput, corpus, and cauda) via immunofluorescence, Western blot, and mass spectrometry. RESULTS Results showed that tissues, luminal fluid, and isolated epididymosomes from each segment contained cenexin. Co-incubation of immature sperm cells for 3 h with luminal fluid or epididymosomes followed by immunostaining revealed that percentages of sperm cells containing cenexin significantly increased in samples co-incubated with epididymosome suspensions. Additionally, epididymosome co-incubation with immature spermatozoa resulted in sustained motility compared to untreated spermatozoa while there was no significant effect on acrosome integrity. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these results suggest that epididymosomes play a critical role in epididymal sperm maturation and could be ideal vehicles to assist in the enhancement or suppression of male fertility.
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Menezes TP, Hill E, de Alencar Moura A, Lobo MDP, Monteiro-Moreira ACO, Breton S, Machado-Neves M. Pattern of protein expression in the epididymis of Oligoryzomys nigripes (Cricetidae, Sigmodontinae). Cell Tissue Res 2017; 372:135-147. [PMID: 29119327 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2714-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In the epididymis, epithelial cells work in a concerted manner to create a luminal environment for sperm maturation, transport, and storage. However, the cell functions may be affected by anthropogenic factors, causing negative impacts on male fertility. In our study, we describe the pattern of protein expression in the epithelium and luminal fluid from epididymis of Oligoryzomys nigripes, a South American sigmodontine rodent whose reproductive biology has been little studied. Nine animals were captured from a preserved area of Atlantic Forest, where the exposure to anthropogenic influences is minimal. Epididymides were processed for histological analysis under light and epifluorescence microscopy, in which we used cell-specific markers aquaporin 9 (AQP9), vacuolar H+-ATPase (V-ATPase), and cytokeratin 5 (KRT5). Other samples were assessed for protein expression using shotgun proteomics. Similar to laboratory rodents, principal cells expressed AQP9 in their stereocilia. Basal cells, identified by KRT5 labeling, presented lateral body projections and a few axiopodia going toward the lumen. Clear cells expressed V-ATPase in their sub-apical vesicles and microplicae, and showed different shapes along the duct. Shotgun proteomics detected 51 proteins from epididymal supernatant. Most of them have been previously described in other species, indicating that they are well conserved. Twenty-three proteins detected in O. nigripes have not been described in epididymis from other South American sigmodontine rodents, confirming that the secretion pattern is species-specific. Our findings in O. nigripes from a protected area may help to create a baseline for studies investigating the effects of anthropogenic factors on functionality of the epididymal epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Prata Menezes
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, 36570-900, Brazil
| | - Eric Hill
- Center for Systems Biology/Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.,Micro Video Instruments, Inc, Avon, MA, 02322, USA
| | | | - Marina D P Lobo
- Laboratory of Proteomics, School of Pharmacy, University of Fortaleza, Ceará, CE, 60811-905, Brazil
| | | | - Sylvie Breton
- Center for Systems Biology/Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Mariana Machado-Neves
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, 36570-900, Brazil.
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11
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Yeste M, Morató R, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Bonet S, Prieto-Martínez N. Aquaporins in the male reproductive tract and sperm: Functional implications and cryobiology. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52 Suppl 4:12-27. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Unit of Cell Biology; Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; Faculty of Sciences; University of Girona; Girona Spain
| | - R Morató
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Unit of Cell Biology; Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; Faculty of Sciences; University of Girona; Girona Spain
- Unit of Animal Reproduction; Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - JE Rodríguez-Gil
- Unit of Animal Reproduction; Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - S Bonet
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Unit of Cell Biology; Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; Faculty of Sciences; University of Girona; Girona Spain
| | - N Prieto-Martínez
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Unit of Cell Biology; Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; Faculty of Sciences; University of Girona; Girona Spain
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12
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Schimming BC, Baumam CAE, Pinheiro PFF, de Matteis R, Domeniconi RF. Aquaporin 9 is expressed in the epididymis of immature and mature pigs. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52:617-624. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- BC Schimming
- Department of Anatomy; Institute of Biosciences; São Paulo State University (UNESP); Botucatu SP Brazil
| | - CAE Baumam
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science; São Paulo State University (UNESP); Botucatu SP Brazil
| | - PFF Pinheiro
- Department of Anatomy; Institute of Biosciences; São Paulo State University (UNESP); Botucatu SP Brazil
| | - R de Matteis
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science; São Paulo State University (UNESP); Botucatu SP Brazil
| | - RF Domeniconi
- Department of Anatomy; Institute of Biosciences; São Paulo State University (UNESP); Botucatu SP Brazil
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13
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Muzi-Filho H, Souza AM, Bezerra CGP, Boldrini LC, Takiya CM, Oliveira FL, Nesi RT, Valença SS, Silva AMS, Zapata-Sudo G, Sudo RT, Einicker-Lamas M, Vieyra A, Lara LS, Cunha VMN. Rats undernourished in utero have altered Ca2+ signaling and reduced fertility in adulthood. Physiol Rep 2015; 3:3/10/e12587. [PMID: 26508737 PMCID: PMC4632956 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.12587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological and animal studies have shown that placental undernutrition impairs reproduction in adult offspring, but the underlying molecular mechanisms within the male genital tract remain unknown. Due to its special physiological characteristics in transport and the modulation of the environment to which its luminal content is exposed, we hypothesized that the vas deferens would be a highly sensitive target. The goals were to investigate whether intrauterine malnutrition affects molecular mechanisms related to Ca(2+)- and oxidative stress-modulated processes and causes structural alterations in the adult rat vas deferens that could attenuate fecundity and fertility. Male adult rats malnourished in utero had increased vas deferens weight associated with thickening of the muscular coat, a decrease in the total and haploid germ cells, a marked increase in the immature cells, and a decline in the numbers of pregnant females and total offspring per male rat. The ex vivo response of vas deferens from malnourished rats demonstrated an accentuated decrease in the contractile response to phenylephrine. The vas deferens had a marked decrease in Ca(2+) transport due to the uncoupling of Ca(2+)-stimulated ATP hydrolysis and ATP-driven Ca(2+) flux, and the downregulation of both sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase 2 and the coupling factor 12-kDa FK506-binding protein. An increase in protein carbonylation (a marker of oxidative damage) and an imbalance between protein kinases C and A were observed as a legacy of undernutrition in early life. These results provide the structural and molecular basis to explain at least in part how maternal undernutrition affects fecundity and fertility in adult male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humberto Muzi-Filho
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alessandro M Souza
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Camila G P Bezerra
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leonardo C Boldrini
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Directorate of Metrology Applied Life Sciences, National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
| | - Christina M Takiya
- Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Felipe L Oliveira
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Renata T Nesi
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Samuel S Valença
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ananssa M S Silva
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gisele Zapata-Sudo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Roberto T Sudo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Einicker-Lamas
- Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Adalberto Vieyra
- Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lucienne S Lara
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Valeria M N Cunha
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Boj M, Chauvigné F, Cerdà J. Aquaporin biology of spermatogenesis and sperm physiology in mammals and teleosts. THE BIOLOGICAL BULLETIN 2015; 229:93-108. [PMID: 26338872 DOI: 10.1086/bblv229n1p93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Fluid homeostasis is recognized as a critical factor during the development, maturation, and function of vertebrate male germ cells. These processes have been associated with the presence of multiple members of the aquaporin superfamily of water and solute channels in different cell types along the reproductive tract as well as in spermatozoa. We present a comparative analysis of the existing knowledge of aquaporin biology in the male reproductive tissues of mammals and teleosts. Current data suggest that in both vertebrate groups, aquaporins may have similar functions during differentiation of spermatozoa in the germinal epithelium, in the concentration and maturation of sperm in the testicular ducts, and in the regulation of osmotically induced volume changes in ejaculated spermatozoa. Recent studies have also provided insight into the possible function of aquaporins beyond water transport, such as in signaling pathways during spermatogenesis or the sensing of cell swelling and mitochondrial peroxide transport in activated sperm. However, an understanding of the specific physiological functions of the various aquaporins during germ cell development and sperm motility, as well as the molecular mechanisms involved, remains elusive. Novel experimental approaches need to be developed to elucidate these processes and to dissect the regulatory intracellular pathways implicated, which will greatly help to uncover the molecular basis of sperm physiology and male fertility in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Boj
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; and
| | - François Chauvigné
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; and Department of Biology, Bergen High Technology Centre, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Joan Cerdà
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; and
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15
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Schimming BC, Pinheiro PFF, de Matteis R, Machado CM, Domeniconi RF. Immunolocalization of Aquaporins 1 and 9 in the Ram Efferent Ducts and Epididymis. Reprod Domest Anim 2015; 50:617-24. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 04/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- BC Schimming
- Department of Anatomy; Biosciences Institute of Botucatu; UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista; Botucatu São Paulo Brazil
| | - PFF Pinheiro
- Department of Anatomy; Biosciences Institute of Botucatu; UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista; Botucatu São Paulo Brazil
| | - R de Matteis
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science; UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista; Botucatu São Paulo Brazil
| | - CM Machado
- Department of Anatomy; Biosciences Institute of Botucatu; UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista; Botucatu São Paulo Brazil
| | - RF Domeniconi
- Department of Anatomy; Biosciences Institute of Botucatu; UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista; Botucatu São Paulo Brazil
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16
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Characterisation of Lyzls in mice and antibacterial properties of human LYZL6. Asian J Androl 2013; 15:824-30. [PMID: 24013621 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2013.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2013] [Revised: 06/05/2013] [Accepted: 06/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
C-type lysozyme genes (Lyzls) belong to the class of lysozymes and are highly expressed in the testis and epididymis. The members Lyzl4 and Spaca3 have been reported to play a role in sperm-egg binding and fertilisation in mice. However, the function of the remaining two mouse c-type lysozyme genes, Lyzl1 and Lyzl6, is still not clear. In the present study, we analysed the tissue expression and androgen-dependent expression of mouse c-type lysozyme genes and the possible contribution of human recombinant LYZL6 (rLYZL6) to immunity. The expression of Lyzls was detected by RT-PCR, Western blots, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. The bacteriolytic activity of rLYZL6 was analysed by a colony-forming assay. In mice, the expression of Lyzl genes was mainly in the testis and epididymis in a developmentally regulated manner and androgen- or testicular factor-regulated manner. Immunodetection revealed the presence of LYZL6 protein in primary spermatocytes and round spermatids of the testis and on the post-acrosomal area and midpiece of mature epididymal spermatozoa. The rLYZL6 protein exhibited antibacterial activity. From the results, Lyzls may play a role in mitochondrial function of spermatozoa and LYZL6 may contribute to the innate immunity of the male genital tract.
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17
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Roy JW, Hill E, Ruan YC, Vedovelli L, Păunescu TG, Brown D, Breton S. Circulating aldosterone induces the apical accumulation of the proton pumping V-ATPase and increases proton secretion in clear cells in the caput epididymis. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2013; 305:C436-46. [PMID: 23761626 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00410.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Clear cells express the vacuolar proton-pumping H(+)-ATPase (V-ATPase) and acidify the lumen of the epididymis, a process that is essential for male fertility. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) regulates fluid and electrolyte balance in the epididymis, and a previous study showed binding of aldosterone exclusively to epididymal clear cells (Hinton BT, Keefer DA. Steroid Biochem 23: 231-233, 1985). We examined here the role of aldosterone in the regulation of V-ATPase in the epididymis. RT-PCR showed expression of the mineralocorticoid receptor [MR; nuclear receptor subfamily 3, group C member 2 (NR3C2)] and 11-β-dehydrogenase isozyme 2 (HSD11β2) mRNAs specifically in clear cells, isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting from B1-enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) mice. Tail vein injection of adult rats with aldosterone, 1,2-dioctanoyl-sn-glycerol (DOG), or 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)-cAMP (cpt-cAMP) induced V-ATPase apical membrane accumulation and extension of V-ATPase-labeled microvilli in clear cells in the caput epididymis but not in the cauda. V-ATPase activity was measured in EGFP-expressing clear cells using the intracellular pH (pHi)-sensing dye seminaphthorhodafluor-5F-5-(and 6)-carboxylic acid, acetoxymethyl ester acetate (SNARF-5F). Aldosterone induced a rapid increase in the rate of Na(+)- and bicarbonate-independent pHi recovery following an NH4Cl-induced acid load in clear cells isolated from the caput but not the cauda. This effect was abolished by concanamycin A, spironolactone, and chelerythrine but not myristoylated-protein kinase inhibitor (mPKI) or mifepristone. Thus aldosterone increases V-ATPase-dependent proton secretion in clear cells in the caput epididymis via MR/NR3C2 and PKC activation. This study, therefore, identifies aldosterone as an active member of the RAAS for the regulation of luminal acidification in the proximal epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy W Roy
- Center for Systems Biology/Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; and
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Oliveira RL, Campolina-Silva GH, Nogueira JC, Mahecha GAB, Oliveira CA. Differential expression and seasonal variation on aquaporins 1 and 9 in the male genital system of big fruit-eating bat Artibeus lituratus. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 186:116-25. [PMID: 23510858 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.02.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2012] [Revised: 02/22/2013] [Accepted: 02/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Efferent ductules and epididymis are involved in water and solute transport, which is indispensable for storage and maintenance of the sperm viability. The reabsorption process involves proteins such as aquaporins (AQP), which has been described in the male genital system of limited species, including primate, rodents, cats and dogs. To contribute with information about AQPs in the male system, here we investigated the distribution of AQP1 and AQP9 in the tropical bat Artibeus lituratus, along the annual reproductive cycle. A. lituratus is a seasonal breeder with natural variation in components of the androgen and estrogen responsive system, thus being a good model for exploring the AQPs modulation. AQP1 was found restricted to differentiating spermatids, efferent ductules epithelium and venular endothelia along the male tract. AQP9 was detected throughout the epididymis being more abundant in the cauda and ductus deferens, but was not found in testis, rete testis and efferent ductules. Contrasting with AQP1 which appear to be constitutively expressed, there was seasonal variation in AQP9 expression, which was reduced in regressed epididymis. The AQP9 does not appear to be modulated by estradiol or androgens, but possibly by other factor related to luminal sperm. The establishment of specific function for aquaporins in the male tract remains undetermined; however, the cellular distribution presently found are compatible with the main function of AQP1, as a selective water channel, and AQP9, which is a conduct for water and a plethora of neutral solutes present in the epididymis milieu such as glycerol and urea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regiana L Oliveira
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Cx. Postal 486, CEP 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Belleannée C, Thimon V, Sullivan R. Region-specific gene expression in the epididymis. Cell Tissue Res 2012; 349:717-31. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-012-1381-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2011] [Accepted: 02/10/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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20
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Ma L, Li W, Zhu HP, Li Z, Sun ZJ, Liu XP, Zhao J, Zhang JS, Zhang YQ. Localization and androgen regulation of metastasis-associated protein 1 in mouse epididymis. PLoS One 2010; 5:e15439. [PMID: 21082030 PMCID: PMC2972736 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0015439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2010] [Accepted: 09/20/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metastasis-associated protein 1 (MTA1), the founding member of the MTA family of genes, can modulate transcription by influencing the status of chromatin remodeling. Despite its strong correlation with the metastatic potential of cancer cells, MTA1 can also regulate crucial cellular pathways by modifying the acetylation status. We have previously reported the presence of MTA1/MTA1 in human and mouse testes, providing the evidence for its involvement in the regulation of testicular function during murine spermatogenesis. The objective of present study was to further assess the localization of MTA1 in mouse epididymis on both transcriptional and translational level, and then to explore whether MTA1 expression is regulated by androgens and postnatal epididymal development. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Mice were deprived of circulating androgen by bilaterally castration and were then supplemented with exogenous testosterone propionate for one week. MTA1 was immunolocalized in the epithelium of the entire epididymis with the maximal expression in the nuclei of principal cells and of clear cells in proximal region. Its expression decreased gradually after castration, whereas testosterone treatment could restore the expression, indicating that the expression of this gene is dependent on androgen. During postnatal development, the protein expression in the epididymis began to appear from day 7 to day 14, increased dramatically from postnatal day 28, and peaked at adulthood onwards, coinciding with both the well differentiated status of epididymis and the mature levels of circulating androgens. This region- and cell-specific pattern was also conservative in normal human epididymis. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that the expression of MTA1 protein could be regulated by androgen pathway and its expression level is closely associated with the postnatal development of the epididymis, giving rise to the possibility that this gene plays a potential role in sperm maturation and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ma
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology and Embryology, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology and Embryology, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua-Ping Zhu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology and Embryology, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology and Embryology, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Jian Sun
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology and Embryology, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin-Ping Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology and Embryology, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin-Shan Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology and Embryology, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan-Qiang Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology and Embryology, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- * E-mail:
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Zelenina M. Regulation of brain aquaporins. Neurochem Int 2010; 57:468-88. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2010.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2009] [Revised: 03/21/2010] [Accepted: 03/31/2010] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Abstract
Estrogen's presence in the male reproductive system has been known for over 60 years, but its potential function in the epididymis remains an important area of investigation. Estrogen is synthesized by germ cells, producing a relatively high concentration in rete testis fluid. There are two estrogen receptors (ESR), the presence of which in the head of the epididymis is well documented and consistent between species; however, in other regions of the epididymis, their expression appears to be isotype, species, and cell specific. ESR1 is expressed constitutively in the epididymis; however, its presence is downregulated by high doses of estrogen, making the design of experiments complicated, as the phenotype of the Cyp19a1(-/-) mouse does not resemble that of the Esr1(-/-) mouse. Ligand-independent and DNA-binding Esr1 mutant models further demonstrate the complexity and importance of both signaling pathways in maintenance of efferent ductules and epididymis. Data now reveal the presence of not only classical nuclear receptors, but also cytoplasmic ESR and rapid responding membrane receptors; however, their importance in the epididymis remains undetermined. ESR1 regulates ion transport and water reabsorption in the efferent ducts and epididymis, and its regulation of other associated genes is continually being uncovered. In the male, some genes, such as Aqp9 and Slc9a3, contain both androgen and estrogen response elements and are dually regulated by these hormones. While estrogen pathways are a necessity for fertility in the male, future studies are needed to understand the interplay between androgens and estrogens in epididymal tissues, particularly in cell types that contain both receptors and their cofactors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avenel Joseph
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
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Pastor-Soler NM, Fisher JS, Sharpe R, Hill E, Van Hoek A, Brown D, Breton S. Aquaporin 9 expression in the developing rat epididymis is modulated by steroid hormones. Reproduction 2009; 139:613-21. [PMID: 19948840 DOI: 10.1530/rep-09-0284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Fluid and solute transport across the epithelium of the male excurrent duct is important for sperm maturation and storage. Aquaporin 9 (AQP9), which allows permeation of water and neutral solutes, is abundant throughout the male reproductive tract, where it is expressed at the apical membrane of rat epididymal principal cells as early as at 1 week of age. We evaluated the effect of neonatal exposure to: 1) a GNRH antagonist (GNRHa); 2) diethylstilbestrol (DES); 3) ethinyl estradiol (EE); 4) DES plus testosterone (DES+TE); and 5) the anti-androgen flutamide on AQP9 expression in the epididymis of peripubertal rats. Control groups received the vehicle alone. In 25-day-old rats, quantification of the mean pixel intensity of immunofluorescence-stained sections showed a significant decrease in AQP9 staining in the apical membrane of epididymal principal cells after treatments with GNRHa, DES, or flutamide, compared to controls. These results were confirmed by western blotting. While EE induced a marked decrease in AQP9 levels by western blotting, the decrease in AQP9-associated fluorescence was not significant compared to controls. DES+TE-treated rats showed levels of AQP9 protein similar to controls, indicating maintenance of AQP9 expression by testosterone treatment in the presence of DES. Our data show that expression of AQP9 in the developing rat epididymis is downregulated by neonatal DES, GNRHa, EE, and flutamide, and that the effects mediated by estrogens can be prevented by testosterone administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Núria M Pastor-Soler
- Program in Membrane Biology and Nephrology Division, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
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Pierucci-Alves F, Duncan CL, Schultz BD. Testosterone upregulates anion secretion across porcine vas deferens epithelia in vitro. Biol Reprod 2009; 81:628-35. [PMID: 19474062 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.076570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Testosterone induces and maintains prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2, also known as cyclooxygenase 2) expression in vas deferens epithelial cells, but it remains unknown whether this has a physiological role in the context of male reproductive biology. Prostaglandins induce concentration-dependent increases in anion secretion in porcine vas deferens epithelial cell (1 degrees PVD) monolayers, where bicarbonate contributes to cAMP-stimulated anion secretion. Moreover, bradykinin induces anion secretion across 1 degrees PVD monolayers that is indomethacin sensitive, and both PTGS2 and PTGS1 are expressed in this model system. Therefore, it was hypothesized that testosterone modulates anion secretion across vas deferens epithelia via PTGS-dependent pathways and prostaglandin synthesis. Porcine vas deferens epithelial cells were isolated and cultured as monolayers on permeable supports until assayed in modified Ussing chambers. RNA and protein were isolated concurrently for semiquantitative expression analysis. Testosterone upregulated basal and bradykinin-induced short-circuit current across 1 degrees PVD monolayers, indicative of anion secretion. Testosterone also induced greater transepithelial electrical resistance. Increases in anion secretion were associated with preferential upregulation of PTGS2 at the mRNA and protein levels. In addition, testosterone induced greater basal and bradykinin-induced anion secretion across vas deferens epithelial cells isolated from the distal segment of the duct. Taken together, these results suggest that testosterone upregulates epithelial responsiveness to acute modulations of anion secretion (likely bicarbonate secretion), which ultimately modifies the environment to which sperm are exposed.
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