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Zhu Y, Lin Y, Zheng X, Wang H, Li Z, Sun F. Col3a1 delivered via extracellular vesicles of Sertoli cells is essential for mice Sertoli cell proliferation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 577:112036. [PMID: 37532092 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
It is generally believed that Sertoli cells can proliferate only before sexual maturity. In this study, we found that extracellular vesicles of Sertoli cells derived from prepubertal mice (SEVs) have the ability to promote the proliferation of Sertoli cell population. In addition, via proteomic analysis, we compared the functional components of extracellular vesicles derived from Sertoli cells of mice at 12-14 days and 8 weeks. The functional profiling of SEVs suggested important developmental roles, and this was confirmed by analysis comparing the transcriptomic changes in Sertoli cells treated with DMSO and GW4869. The following analysis pointed to Col3a1 as a key factor in SEVs, which was further validated using primary Sertoli cells and TM4 cell line. The present study suggests a possible role for Col3a1 in promoting the proliferation of cultured Sertoli cells and provides a new perspective on the function of extracellular vesicles in Sertoli cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhu
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Yu Lin
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Xiaoguo Zheng
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Hanshu Wang
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Zhenhua Li
- Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Fei Sun
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
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Hüneke H, Langeheine M, Rode K, Jung K, Pilatz A, Fietz D, Kliesch S, Brehm R. Effects of a Sertoli cell-specific knockout of Connexin43 on maturation and proliferation of postnatal Sertoli cells. Differentiation 2023; 134:31-51. [PMID: 37839230 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Adult male Sertoli cell-specific Connexin43 knockout mice (SCCx43KO) exhibit higher Sertoli cell (SC) numbers per seminiferous tubule compared to their wild type (WT) littermates. Thus, deletion of this testicular gap junction protein seems to affect the proliferative potential and differentiation of "younger" SC. Although SC have so far mostly been characterised as postmitotic cells that cease to divide and become an adult, terminally differentiated cell population at around puberty, there is rising evidence that there exist exceptions from this for a very long time accepted paradigm. Aim of this study was to investigate postnatal SC development and to figure out underlying causes for observed higher SC numbers in adult KO mice. Therefore, the amount of SC mitotic figures was compared, resulting in slightly more and prolonged detection of SC mitotic figures in KO mice compared to WT. SC counting per tubular cross section revealed significantly different time curves, and comparing proliferation rates using Bromodesoxyuridine and Sox9 showed higher proliferation rates in 8-day old KO mice. SC proliferation was further investigated by Ki67 immunohistochemistry. SC in KO mice displayed a delayed initiation of cell-cycle-inhibitor p27Kip1 synthesis and prolonged synthesis of the phosphorylated tumour suppressor pRb and proliferation marker Ki67. Thus, the higher SC numbers in adult male SCCx43KO mice may arise due to two different reasons: Firstly, in prepubertal KO mice, the proliferation rate of SC was higher. Secondly, there were differences in their ability to cease proliferation as shown by the delayed initiation of p27Kip1 synthesis and the prolonged production of phosphorylated pRb and Ki67. Immunohistochemical results indicating a prolonged period of SC proliferation in SCCx43KO were confirmed by detection of proliferating SC in 17-days-old KO mice. In conclusion, deletion of the testicular gap junction protein Cx43 might prevent normal SC maturation and might even alter also the proliferation potential of adult SC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Hüneke
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marion Langeheine
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kristina Rode
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Klaus Jung
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Daniela Fietz
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Ralph Brehm
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany.
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Bu T, Li X, Wang L, Wu X, Gao S, Yun D, Li L, Sun F, Cheng CY. Regulation of sertoli cell function by planar cell polarity (PCP) protein Fjx1. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 571:111936. [PMID: 37119967 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.111936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Four-jointed box kinase 1 (Fjx1) is a planar cell protein (PCP) and a member of the Fat (FAT atypical cadherin 1)/Dchs (Dachsous cadherin-related protein)/Fjx1 PCP complex. Fjx1 is also a non-receptor Ser/Thr protein kinase capable of phosphorylating Fat1 at is extracellular cadherin domains when it is transport across the Golgi system. As such, Fjx1 is a Golgi-based regulator of Fat1 function by determining its extracellular deposition. Herein, Fjx1 was found to localize across the Sertoli cell cytoplasm, partially co-localized with the microtubules (MTs) across the seminiferous epithelium. It was most notable at the apical ES (ectoplasmic specialization) and basal ES, displaying distinctive stage-specific expression. The apical ES and basal ES are the corresponding testis-specific cell adhesion ultrastructures at the Sertoli-elongated spermatid and Sertoli cell-cell interface, respectively, consistent with the role of Fjx1 as a Golgi-associated Ser/Thr kinase that modulates the Fat (and/or Dchs) integral membrane proteins. Its knockdown (KD) by RNAi using specific Fjx1 siRNA duplexes versus non-targeting negative control siRNA duplexes was found to perturb the Sertoli cell tight junction function, as well as perturbing the function and organization of MT and actin. While Fjx1 KD did not affect the steady-state levels of almost two dozens of BTB-associated Sertoli cell proteins, including structural and regulatory proteins, its KD was found to down-regulate Fat1 (but not Fat2, 3, and 4) and to up-regulate Dchs1 (but not Dchs2) expression. Based on results of biochemical analysis, Fjx1 KD was found to be capable of abolishing phosphorylation of its putative substrate Fat1 at its Ser/Thr sites, but not at its Tyr site, illustrating an intimate functional relationship of Fjx1 and Fat1 in Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiao Bu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Xinyao Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, China
| | - Sheng Gao
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Damin Yun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China.
| | - C Yan Cheng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China.
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Connexin43 represents an important regulator for Sertoli cell morphology, Sertoli cell nuclear ultrastructure, and Sertoli cell maturation. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12898. [PMID: 35902708 PMCID: PMC9334284 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-16919-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sertoli cell (SC)-specific knockout (KO) of connexin43 (Cx43) was shown to be an effector of multiple histological changes in tubular morphology, resulting in germ cell loss through to a Sertoli-cell-only (SCO) phenotype and vacuolated seminiferous tubules containing SC-clusters. Our present study focused on the effects of Cx43 loss on SC ultrastructure. Using serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM), we could confirm previous results. Ultrastructural analysis of Sertoli cell nuclei (SCN) revealed that these appear in clusters with a phenotype resembling immature/proliferating SCs in KO mice. Surprisingly, SCs of fertile wild type (WT) mice contained SCN with a predominantly smooth surface instead of deep indentations of the nuclear envelope, suggesting that these indentations do not correlate with germ cell support or spermatogenesis. SBF-SEM facilitated the precise examination of clustered SCs. Even if the exact maturation state of mutant SCs remained unclear, our study could detect indications of cellular senescence as well as immaturity, emphasising that Cx43 affects SC maturation. Moreover, Sudan III staining and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) demonstrated an altered lipid metabolism in SCs of Cx43 deficient mice.
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Mäkelä JA, Toppari J. Retinoblastoma-E2F Transcription Factor Interplay Is Essential for Testicular Development and Male Fertility. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:903684. [PMID: 35663332 PMCID: PMC9161260 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.903684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The retinoblastoma (RB) protein family members (pRB, p107 and p130) are key regulators of cell cycle progression, but also play crucial roles in apoptosis, and stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. RB proteins exert their effects through binding to E2F transcription factors, which are essential developmental and physiological regulators of tissue and organ homeostasis. According to the canonical view, phosphorylation of RB results in release of E2Fs and induction of genes needed for progress of the cell cycle. However, there are eight members in the E2F transcription factor family with both activator (E2F1-3a) and repressor (E2F3b-E2F8) roles, highlighting the functional diversity of RB-E2F pathway. In this review article we summarize the data showing that RB-E2F interaction is a key cell-autonomous mechanism responsible for establishment and maintenance of lifelong male fertility. We also review the expression pattern of RB proteins and E2F transcription factors in the testis and male germ cells. The available evidence supports that RB and E2F family members are widely and dynamically expressed in the testis, and they are known to have versatile roles during spermatogenesis. Knowledge of the function and significance of RB-E2F interplay for testicular development and spermatogenesis comes primarily from gene knock-out (KO) studies. Several studies conducted in Sertoli cell-specific pRB-KO mice have demonstrated that pRB-mediated inhibition of E2F3 is essential for Sertoli cell functional maturation and cell cycle exit, highlighting that RB-E2F interaction in Sertoli cells is paramount to male fertility. Similarly, ablation of either pRB or E2F1 in the germline results in progressive testicular atrophy due to germline stem cell (GSC) depletion, emphasizing the importance of proper RB-E2F interplay for germline maintenance and lifelong sperm production. In summary, while balanced RB-E2F interplay is essential for cell-autonomous maintenance of GSCs and, the pRB-E2F3 system in Sertoli cells is critical for providing GSC niche thus laying the basis for spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juho-Antti Mäkelä
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- *Correspondence: Jorma Toppari,
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Martínez-Hernández J, Seco-Rovira V, Beltrán-Frutos E, Ferrer C, Serrano-Sánchez MI, Pastor LM. Proliferation, apoptosis, and number of Sertoli cells in the Syrian hamster during recrudescence after exposure to short photoperiod†‡. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:588-597. [PMID: 31621831 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sertoli cell (Sc) has been described as a quiescent cell once the animal has reached sexual maturity. Syrian hamster is an animal that displays testicular regression due to short photoperiod, during which process germ cells and Sc are removed through apoptosis. The aim of this work was to investigate histochemically whether the spontaneous testicular recrudescence processes after exposure to a short photoperiod lead to an increase in Sc proliferative activity in order to restore the normal population. Three spontaneous recrudescence groups were established: initial (IR), advanced (AR), and total (TR) recrudescence, which were compared with animal undergoing the regression process (mild: MRg, strong: SRg, and total: TRg) and animals in long photoperiod (Controls). Histological sections were submitted to histochemical techniques for detecting apoptotic and proliferative Sc with bright-field and fluorescence microscopy. For each group, the proliferative Sc index (PScI) and apoptotic Sc index (AScI), and the total number of Sc were obtained. The results revealed the existence of Vimentin+/TUNEL+ as well as Vimentin+/PCNA+ cells. The PScI was significantly higher in TRg and IR than in the other groups. The AScI was only significantly higher in MRg and SRg with respect to the other groups. The total number of Sc increased among TRg, IR, and AR, reaching values similar to those of the Controls. In conclusion, the increase in Sc proliferation from final regression and recrudescence, accompanied by a similar rate of apoptosis to the Control group, is the cause of the restoration of the Sc population during spontaneous recrudescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Martínez-Hernández
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Medical School, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Vicente Seco-Rovira
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Medical School, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Ester Beltrán-Frutos
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Medical School, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Concepción Ferrer
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Medical School, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - María Isabel Serrano-Sánchez
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Medical School, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel Pastor
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Medical School, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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O'Donnell L, Smith LB, Rebourcet D. Sertoli cells as key drivers of testis function. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 121:2-9. [PMID: 34229950 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells are the orchestrators of spermatogenesis; they support fetal germ cell commitment to the male pathway and are essential for germ cell development, from maintenance of the spermatogonial stem cell niche and spermatogonial populations, through meiosis and spermiogeneis and to the final release of mature spermatids during spermiation. However, Sertoli cells are also emerging as key regulators of other testis somatic cells, including supporting peritubular myoid cell development in the pre-pubertal testis and supporting the function of the testicular vasculature and in contributing to testicular immune privilege. Sertoli cells also have a major role in regulating androgen production within the testis, by specifying interstitial cells to a steroidogenic fate, contributing to androgen production in the fetal testis, and supporting fetal and adult Leydig cell development and function. Here, we provide an overview of the specific roles for Sertoli cells in the testis and highlight how these cells are key drivers of testicular sperm output, and of adult testis size and optimal function of other testicular somatic cells, including the steroidogenic Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza O'Donnell
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia; Monash University, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Lee B Smith
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Diane Rebourcet
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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Struijk RB, Mulder CL, van Daalen SKM, de Winter-Korver CM, Jongejan A, Repping S, van Pelt AMM. ITGA6+ Human Testicular Cell Populations Acquire a Mesenchymal Rather than Germ Cell Transcriptional Signature during Long-Term Culture. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218269. [PMID: 33158248 PMCID: PMC7672582 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autologous spermatogonial stem cell transplantation is an experimental technique aimed at restoring fertility in infertile men. Although effective in animal models, in vitro propagation of human spermatogonia prior to transplantation has proven to be difficult. A major limiting factor is endogenous somatic testicular cell overgrowth during long-term culture. This makes the culture both inefficient and necessitates highly specific cell sorting strategies in order to enrich cultured germ cell fractions prior to transplantation. Here, we employed RNA-Seq to determine cell type composition in sorted integrin alpha-6 (ITGA6+) primary human testicular cells (n = 4 donors) cultured for up to two months, using differential gene expression and cell deconvolution analyses. Our data and analyses reveal that long-term cultured ITGA6+ testicular cells are composed mainly of cells expressing markers of peritubular myoid cells, (progenitor) Leydig cells, fibroblasts and mesenchymal stromal cells and only a limited percentage of spermatogonial cells as compared to their uncultured counterparts. These findings provide valuable insights into the cell type composition of cultured human ITGA6+ testicular cells during in vitro propagation and may serve as a basis for optimizing future cell sorting strategies as well as optimizing the current human testicular cell culture system for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B. Struijk
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
| | - Callista L. Mulder
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
| | - Saskia K. M. van Daalen
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
| | - Cindy M. de Winter-Korver
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
| | - Aldo Jongejan
- Department of Epidemiology & Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Ans M. M. van Pelt
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-20-56-67837
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9
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Hussain A, Gilloteaux J. The human testes: Estrogen and ageing outlooks. TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH IN ANATOMY 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tria.2020.100073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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10
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Chu PL, Liu HS, Wang C, Lin CY. Association between acrylamide exposure and sex hormones in males: NHANES, 2003-2004. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234622. [PMID: 32555690 PMCID: PMC7302712 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Acrylamide is widely present in heat-processed food, cigarette smoke and environment. Reproductive toxicity was reported in animals treated with acrylamide, particularly in males. The reproductive toxicity of acrylamide and its active metabolite, glycidamide, was reported to be mainly mediated through DNA damage in spermatocytes. However, the effect of acrylamide on sex hormones in men is unknown. Methods There were 468 male subjects (age ≧ 12 years) enrolled to determine the relationships between hemoglobin adducts of acrylamide (HbAA) and hemoglobin adducts of glycidamide (HbGA) with several sex hormones using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2003 to 2004. All potential confounding variables in the data set were properly adjusted. Results We found that one unit increase in the natural log-transformed HbAA level was associated with an increase in natural log transformed serum inhibin B level by 0.10 (SE = 0.05; P = 0.046), and natural log transformed serum sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) by 0.15 (SE = 0.15; P = 0.036). With respect to HbGA, one unit increase in the natural log-transformed HbGA level was associated with an increase in natural log transformed serum anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) level by 0.31 (SE = 0.00; P = 0.003). Conclusion In this representative cohort, we identified positive associations between acrylamide exposure and several sex hormones in men. The HbAA is positively associated with inhibin B and SHBG, and HbGA is positively associated with AMH. Other than genotoxicity, our findings suggested that altered sex hormones might also play a role in acrylamide-related reproductive toxicity in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Lun Chu
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Shan Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hsinchu Cathay General Hospital, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chikang Wang
- Department of Environmental Engineering and Health, Yuanpei University of Medical Technology, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Yu Lin
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Environmental Engineering and Health, Yuanpei University of Medical Technology, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, En Chu Kong Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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Saewu A, Kongmanas K, Raghupathy R, Netherton J, Kadunganattil S, Linton JJ, Chaisuriyong W, Faull KF, Baker MA, Tanphaichitr N. Primary Sertoli Cell Cultures From Adult Mice Have Different Properties Compared With Those Derived From 20-Day-Old Animals. Endocrinology 2020; 161:bqz020. [PMID: 31730175 PMCID: PMC7188083 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqz020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cultures of Sertoli cells isolated from 20-day-old mice are widely used in research as substitutes for adult Sertoli cell cultures. This practice is based on the fact that Sertoli cells cease to proliferate and become mature in vivo by 16 to 20 days after birth. However, it is important to verify whether cultured Sertoli cells derived from 20-day-old mice do not proliferate ex vivo and whether they have the same properties as cultured adult Sertoli cells. Herein we described an isolation/culture method of Sertoli cells from 10-week-old adult mice with > 90% purity. Properties of these cultured adult Sertoli cells were then compared with those of cultured Sertoli cells derived from 20-day-old mice (also > 90% purity). By cell counting, bromo-2-deoxyuridine incorporation, and metaphase plate detection, we demonstrated that only adult Sertoli cells did not proliferate throughout 12 culture days. In contrast, Sertoli cells derived from 20-day-old mice still proliferated until Day 10 in culture. The morphology and profiles of intracellular lipidomics and spent medium proteomics of the 2 cultures were also different. Cultured adult Sertoli cells were larger in size and contained higher levels of triacylglycerols, cholesteryl esters, and seminolipid, and the proteins in their spent medium were mainly engaged in cellular metabolism. In contrast, proteins involved in cell division, including anti-Mullerian hormone, cell division cycle protein 42 (CDC42), and collagen isoforms, were at higher levels in Sertoli cell cultures derived from 20-day-old mice. Therefore, cultured Sertoli cells derived from 10-week-old mice, rather than those from 20-day-old animals, should be used for studies on properties of adult Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpornrad Saewu
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kessiri Kongmanas
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Riya Raghupathy
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jacob Netherton
- Department of Environmental and Life Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Suraj Kadunganattil
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - James-Jules Linton
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Kym F Faull
- Pasarow Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mark A Baker
- Department of Environmental and Life Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nongnuj Tanphaichitr
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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12
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Rodríguez Gutiérrez D, Biason-Lauber A. Pluripotent Cell Models for Gonadal Research. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20215495. [PMID: 31690065 PMCID: PMC6862629 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex development is a complex process involving many genes and hormones. Defects in this process lead to Differences of Sex Development (DSD), a group of heterogeneous conditions not as rare as previously thought. Part of the obstacles in proper management of these patients is due to an incomplete understanding of the genetics programs and molecular pathways involved in sex development and DSD. Several challenges delay progress and the lack of a proper model system for the single patient severely hinders advances in understanding these diseases. The revolutionary techniques of cellular reprogramming and guided in vitro differentiation allow us now to exploit the versatility of induced pluripotent stem cells to create alternatives models for DSD, ideally on a patient-specific personalized basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Rodríguez Gutiérrez
- Endocrinology Division, Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Cardiovascular System, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland.
| | - Anna Biason-Lauber
- Endocrinology Division, Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Cardiovascular System, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland.
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13
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Rotgers E, Cisneros-Montalvo S, Nurmio M, Toppari J. Retinoblastoma protein represses E2F3 to maintain Sertoli cell quiescence in mouse testis. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:132/14/jcs229849. [PMID: 31308245 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.229849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of the differentiated state and cell cycle exit in adult Sertoli cells depends on tumor suppressor retinoblastoma protein (RB, also known as RB1). We have previously shown that RB interacts with transcription factor E2F3 in the mouse testis. Here, we investigated how E2f3 contributes to adult Sertoli cell proliferation in a mouse model of Sertoli cell-specific knockout of Rb by crossing these mice with an E2f3 knockout mouse line. In the presence of intact RB, E2f3 was redundant in Sertoli cells. However, in the absence of RB, E2f3 is a key driver for cell cycle re-entry and loss of function in adult Sertoli cells. Knockout of E2f3 in Sertoli cells rescued the breakdown of Sertoli cell function associated with Rb loss, prevented proliferation of adult Sertoli cells and restored fertility of the mice. In summary, our results show that RB-mediated repression of E2F3 is critical for the maintenance of cell cycle exit and terminal differentiation in adult mouse Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmi Rotgers
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku 20520, Finland.,Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland
| | - Sheyla Cisneros-Montalvo
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku 20520, Finland.,Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland
| | - Mirja Nurmio
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku 20520, Finland.,Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku 20520, Finland .,Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland
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14
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Savvulidi F, Ptacek M, Savvulidi Vargova K, Stadnik L. Manipulation of spermatogonial stem cells in livestock species. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2019; 10:46. [PMID: 31205688 PMCID: PMC6560896 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-019-0355-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We are entering an exciting epoch in livestock biotechnology during which the fundamental approaches (such as transgenesis, spermatozoa cryopreservation and artificial insemination) will be enhanced based on the modern understanding of the biology of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) combined with the outstanding recent advances in genomic editing technologies and in vitro cell culture systems. The general aim of this review is to outline comprehensively the promising applications of SSC manipulation that could in the nearest future find practical application in livestock breeding. Here, we will focus on 1) the basics of mammalian SSC biology; 2) the approaches for SSC isolation and purification; 3) the available in vitro systems for the stable expansion of isolated SSCs; 4) a discussion of how the manipulation of SSCs can accelerate livestock transgenesis; 5) a thorough overview of the techniques of SSC transplantation in livestock species (including the preparation of recipients for SSC transplantation, the ultrasonographic-guided SSC transplantation technique in large farm animals, and the perspectives to improve further the SSC transplantation efficiency), and finally, 6) why SSC transplantation is valuable to extend the techniques of spermatozoa cryopreservation and/or artificial insemination. For situations where no reliable data have yet been obtained for a particular livestock species, we will rely on the data obtained from studies conducted in rodents because the knowledge gained from rodent research is translatable to livestock species to a great extent. On the other hand, we will draw special attention to situations where such translation is not possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipp Savvulidi
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Prague, Suchdol Czech Republic
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, U Nemocnice 5, 128 53 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Ptacek
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Prague, Suchdol Czech Republic
| | - Karina Savvulidi Vargova
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, U Nemocnice 5, 128 53 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ludek Stadnik
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Prague, Suchdol Czech Republic
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15
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Siervo GEML, Ogo FM, Staurengo-Ferrari L, Anselmo-Franci JA, Cunha FQ, Cecchini R, Guarnier FA, Verri WA, Fernandes GSA. Sleep restriction during peripuberty unbalances sexual hormones and testicular cytokines in rats. Biol Reprod 2019; 100:112-122. [PMID: 30010983 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis are not fully established during puberty. Especially during this period, children and adolescents may be chronically sleep deprived due to early school hours and constant exposure to artificial light and interactive activities. We have previously shown that sleep restriction (SR) during peripuberty impairs sperm motility and has consequences on epididymal development in rats. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of SR during peripuberty on sexual hormones and its impact on testicular tissue. Rats were subjected to 18 h of SR per day for 21 days or were maintained as controls (C) in the same room. The circulating luteinizing hormone levels were decreased in SR rats without changes in the follicle stimulating hormone levels. Plasma and intratesticular testosterone and corticosterone in the SR group were increased in relation to C group. These alterations impair testicular tissue, with decreased IL-1β, IL-6, and TNFα levels in the testis and diminished seminiferous epithelium height and Sertoli cell number. SR also increased testicular lipid peroxidation with no alteration in antioxidant profiles. There were no significant changes in sperm parameters, seminiferous tubule diameter, histopathology, spermatogenesis kinetics, neutrophil and macrophage recruitment, and IL-10 concentration. Our results show that SR unbalances sexual hormones and testicular cytokines at a critical period of sexual maturation. These changes lead to lipid peroxidation in the testes and negatively influence the testicular tissue, as evidenced by diminished seminiferous epithelium height-with apoptosis of germinative cell-and Sertoli cell number.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gláucia E M L Siervo
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil.,Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Fernanda M Ogo
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil.,Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Larissa Staurengo-Ferrari
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Janete A Anselmo-Franci
- Department of Morphology, Stomatology and Physiology, Dental School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernando Q Cunha
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rubens Cecchini
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Flávia A Guarnier
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Waldiceu A Verri
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Glaura S A Fernandes
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
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16
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O’Connor E, Vandrovcova J, Bugiardini E, Chelban V, Manole A, Davagnanam I, Wiethoff S, Pittman A, Lynch DS, Efthymiou S, Marino S, Manzur AY, Roberts M, Hanna MG, Houlden H, Matthews E, Wood NW. Mutations in XRCC1 cause cerebellar ataxia and peripheral neuropathy. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2018; 89:1230-1232. [PMID: 29472272 PMCID: PMC6227798 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2017-317581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emer O’Connor
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jana Vandrovcova
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Enrico Bugiardini
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Viorica Chelban
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andreea Manole
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Indran Davagnanam
- Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Wiethoff
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alan Pittman
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - David S Lynch
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stephanie Efthymiou
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Silvia Marino
- Department of Neuropathology, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Adnan Y Manzur
- Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Mark Roberts
- Department of Neurology, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Michael G Hanna
- Medical Research Council Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London and National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Henry Houlden
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Emma Matthews
- Medical Research Council Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London and National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Nicholas W Wood
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
- Neurogenetics Laboratory, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
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17
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Seol DW, Park S, Shin EY, Chang JH, Lee DR. In Vitro Derivation of Functional Sertoli-Like Cells from Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells. Cell Transplant 2018; 27:1523-1534. [PMID: 30215278 PMCID: PMC6180718 DOI: 10.1177/0963689718797053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs) in the mammalian testes are well known as supporting cells of spermatogenesis, but have recently become an attractive source of cell therapy because of their capacity for immune modulation and trophic effects. In order to increase their applicable efficacy, we demonstrate a novel differentiation method for mouse embryonic stem cell (ESC)-derived Sertoli-like cells (SLCs) via the intermediate mesoderm (IM). We show that IM derived from an induction of 6 days expressed markers such as Wt1, Lhx1, Pax2 and Osr1, and that a sequential induction of 6 days resulted in ESC-SLCs. The SLCs expressed their marker genes ( Sf1, Sox9, Gata4, Wt1, Fshr and Scf), but the pluripotency-marker gene Oct4 was decreased. After sorting by FSHR expression, high-purity (> 90%) SLCs were collected that showed distinct characteristics of SCs such as high phagocytic and immune modulation activities as well as the expression of immune-related genes. In addition, when transplanted into the seminiferous tubule of busulfan-treated mice, SLCs re-located and were maintained in the basal region of the tubule. These results demonstrated that our robust sequential differentiation system produced functional SLCs from mouse ESCs in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Won Seol
- 1 Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Seah Park
- 1 Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Eun Young Shin
- 1 Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Jae Ho Chang
- 2 Department of Bio-Convergence, Underwood International College, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Ryul Lee
- 1 Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
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18
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Zarandi NP, Galdon G, Kogan S, Atala A, Sadri-Ardekani H. Cryostorage of immature and mature human testis tissue to preserve spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs): a systematic review of current experiences toward clinical applications. STEM CELLS AND CLONING-ADVANCES AND APPLICATIONS 2018; 11:23-38. [PMID: 30013372 PMCID: PMC6039063 DOI: 10.2147/sccaa.s137873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
While the survival rate of children with cancer is increasing, preserving fertility for prepubertal boys is still a challenge. Although intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) using frozen sperms has revolutionized infertility treatment, it is not applicable for the patients who undergo chemotherapy before puberty since spermatogenesis has not begun. Therefore, preserving spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) as an experimental option can be provided to prepubertal patients at a risk of damage or loss of their SSCs due to cancer treatments and developmental or genetic disorders. Using frozen SSCs in testicular tissue, successful SSC autotransplantation in mouse and nonhuman primates has shown a promising future for SSC-based cell therapy. Cryopreservation of testicular tissue containing SSCs is the first step to translate SSC-based cell therapy into clinical male infertility treatment, and in the investigation into SSCs, it is very important to evaluate their quantity and functionality during this process. This systematic review summarizes the published data on cryopreservation techniques in human testis tissue for potential utilization in future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Pourhabibi Zarandi
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA,
| | - Guillermo Galdon
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA,
| | - Stanley Kogan
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA, .,Department of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA,
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA, .,Department of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA,
| | - Hooman Sadri-Ardekani
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA, .,Department of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA,
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19
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Haverfield JT, Stanton PG, Loveland KL, Zahid H, Nicholls PK, Olcorn JS, Makanji Y, Itman CM, Simpson ER, Meachem SJ. Suppression of Sertoli cell tumour development during the first wave of spermatogenesis in inhibin α-deficient mice. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 29:609-620. [PMID: 26488911 DOI: 10.1071/rd15239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2015] [Accepted: 09/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A dynamic partnership between follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and activin is required for normal Sertoli cell development and fertility. Disruptions to this partnership trigger Sertoli cells to deviate from their normal developmental pathway, as observed in inhibin α-knockout (Inha-KO) mice, which feature Sertoli cell tumours in adulthood. Here, we identified the developmental windows by which adult Sertoli cell tumourigenesis is most FSH sensitive. FSH was suppressed for 7 days in Inha-KO mice and wild-type littermates during the 1st, 2nd or 4th week after birth and culled in the 5th week to assess the effect on adult Sertoli cell development. Tumour growth was profoundly reduced in adult Inha-KO mice in response to FSH suppression during Weeks 1 and 2, but not Week 4. Proliferative Sertoli cells were markedly reduced in adult Inha-KO mice following FSH suppression during Weeks 1, 2 or 4, resulting in levels similar to those in wild-type mice, with greatest effect observed at the 2 week time point. Apoptotic Sertoli cells increased in adult Inha-KO mice after FSH suppression during Week 4. In conclusion, acute FSH suppression during the 1st or 2nd week after birth in Inha-KO mice profoundly suppresses Sertoli cell tumour progression, probably by inhibiting proliferation in the adult, with early postnatal Sertoli cells being most sensitive to FSH action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna T Haverfield
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Peter G Stanton
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Heba Zahid
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Peter K Nicholls
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Justine S Olcorn
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Yogeshwar Makanji
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Catherine M Itman
- Priority Research Centres for Reproductive Science and Chemical Biology, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Information Technology, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Evan R Simpson
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Sarah J Meachem
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
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20
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Tharmalingam MD, Jorgensen A, Mitchell RT. Experimental models of testicular development and function using human tissue and cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 468:95-110. [PMID: 29309804 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian testis has two main roles, production of gametes for reproduction and synthesis of steroid- and peptide hormones for masculinization. These processes are tightly regulated and involve complex interactions between a number of germ and somatic cell-types that comprise a unique microenvironment known as the germ stem cell niche. In humans, failure of normal testicular development or function is associated with susceptibility to a variety of male reproductive disorders including disorders of sex development, infertility and testicular cancer. Whilst studies in rodent models have provided detailed insight into the signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms that regulate the testis, there are important species differences in testicular development, function and reproductive disorders that highlight the need for suitable experimental models utilising human testicular tissues or cells. In this review, we outline experimental approaches used to sustain cells and tissue from human testis at different developmental time-points and discuss relevant end-points. These include survival, proliferation and differentiation of cell lineages within the testis as well as autocrine, paracrine and endocrine function. We also highlight the utility of these experimental approaches for modelling the effects of environmental exposures on testicular development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa D Tharmalingam
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, Scotland, UK
| | - Anne Jorgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, Scotland, UK; Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Edinburgh Royal Hospital for Sick Children, 9 Sciennes Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1LF, Scotland, UK.
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21
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Martínez-Hernández J, Seco-Rovira V, Beltrán-Frutos E, Quesada-Cubo V, Ferrer C, Pastor LM. Identification of Proliferative and Apoptotic Sertoli Cells Using Fluorescence and Confocal Microscopy. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1748:49-60. [PMID: 29453564 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7698-0_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells, the testicular somatic cells of the seminiferous epithelium, are vital for the survival of the epithelium. They undergo proliferation and apoptosis during fetal, neonatal, and prepubertal development. Apoptosis is increased in certain situations such as exposure to many substances, for example, toxics, or short photoperiod in the non-breeding season of some mammals. Therefore, it has always been considered that Sertoli cells that reach adulthood are quiescent cells, that is to say, nonproliferative, do not die, are terminally differentiated, and whose numbers remain constant. Recently, a degree of both proliferation and apoptosis has been observed in normal adult conditions, suggesting that consideration of this cell as quiescent may be subject to change. All this make it necessary to use histochemical techniques to demonstrate whether Sertoli cells are undergoing proliferation or apoptosis in histological sections and to allow the qualitative and quantitative study of these. In this chapter, we present two double-staining techniques that can be used for identifying Sertoli cells in proliferation or apoptosis by fluorescence microscopy. In both, the Sertoli cells are identified by an immunohistochemistry for vimentin followed by an immunohistochemistry for PCNA or a TUNEL histochemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Martínez-Hernández
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Vicente Seco-Rovira
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Ester Beltrán-Frutos
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Victor Quesada-Cubo
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Concepción Ferrer
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel Pastor
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.
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22
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23
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Cirelli E, De Domenico E, Botti F, Massoud R, Geremia R, Grimaldi P. Effect Of Microgravity On Aromatase Expression In Sertoli Cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:3469. [PMID: 28615629 PMCID: PMC5471225 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02018-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytochrome P450-aromatase catalyzes estrogen biosynthesis from C19 steroids. In the testis, Sertoli cells express P450-aromatase and represent the primary source of estrogen during prepuberal age. This study focused on the effect of simulated microgravity (SM) on aromatase expression in primary mouse Sertoli cells. When cultured in Rotary Cell Culture System (RCCS), Sertoli cells, formed multicellular three dimensional spheroids (3D). Biological properties were first analyzed in terms of viability, cell cycle, expression of cytoskeletal components and growth factors in comparison to Sertoli cells cultured in spheroids at unit gravity (G). SM did not affect cell viability and proliferation, nor expression of the main cytoskeleton proteins and of growth factors like Kit Ligand (KL) and glial derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). On the other hand, SM caused a strong increase in P450 aromatase mRNA and protein expression. Interestingly, P450-aromatase was no more inducible by 8-Br-cAMP. The presence of a functional aromatase was confirmed by enrichment of 17β-estradiol released in the medium by androgen precursors. We concluded that SM causes a significant upregulation of aromatase gene expression in Sertoli cells, leading to a consequent increase in 17β-estradiol secretion. High level of 17β-estradiol in the testis could have potentially adverse effects on male fertility and testicular cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Cirelli
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela De Domenico
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Botti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Renato Massoud
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaele Geremia
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Grimaldi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy.
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The hot-spot p53R172H mutant promotes formation of giant spermatogonia triggered by DNA damage. Oncogene 2017; 36:2002-2013. [PMID: 27869164 PMCID: PMC5390101 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2016.374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Revised: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Overexpression of mutant p53 is a common finding in most cancers but testicular tumours accumulate wild-type p53 (wtp53). In contrast to the accepted concept that p53 homozygous mutant mice do not accumulate mutant p53 in normal cells, our study on a mutant p53 mouse model of Li-Fraumeni syndrome harbouring the hot-spot p53R172H mutation described an elevated level of mutant p53 in non-cancerous mouse tissues. Here we use detailed immunohistochemical analysis to document the expression of p53R172H in mouse testis. In developing and adult testes, p53R172H was expressed in gonocytes, type A, Int, B spermatogonia as well as in pre-Sertoli cells and Leydig cells but was undetectable in spermatocytes and spermatids. A similar staining pattern was demonstrated for wtp53. However, the intensity of wtp53 staining was generally weaker than that of p53R172H, which indicates that the expression of p53R172H can be a surrogate marker of p53 gene transcription. Comparing the responses of wtp53 and p53R172H to irradiation, we found persistent DNA double-strand breaks in p53R172H testes and the formation of giant spermatogonia (GSG) following persistent DNA damage in p53R172H and p53-null mice. Strikingly, we found that p53R172H promotes spontaneous formation of GSG in non-stressed p53R172H ageing mice. Two types of GSG: Viable and Degenerative GSG were defined. We elucidate the factors involved in the formation of GSG: the loss of p53 function is a requirement for the formation of GSG whereas DNA damage acts as a promoting trigger. The formation of GSG does not translate to higher efficacy of testicular tumorigenesis arising from mutant p53 cells, which might be due to the presence of delayed-onset of p53-independent apoptosis.
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Kulibin AY, Malolina EA. Only a small population of adult Sertoli cells actively proliferates in culture. Reproduction 2016; 152:271-81. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Adult mammalian Sertoli cells (SCs) have been considered to be quiescent terminal differentiated cells for many years, but recently, proliferation of adult SCs was demonstrated in vitro and in vivo. We further examined mouse SC behavior in culture and found that there are two populations of adult SCs. The first population is SCs from seminiferous tubules that hardly proliferate in vitro. The second population is small and consists of SCs with atypical nuclear morphology from the terminal segments of seminiferous tubules, a transitional zone (TZ). TZ SCs multiply in culture and form colonies, display mixture of mature and immature SC characteristics, and generate cord-like structures in a collagen matrix. The specific features of TZ SCs are ACTA2 expression in vitro and DMRT1 low levels in vivo and in vitro. Although the in vivo function of TZ SCs still remains unclear, this finding has significant implications for our understanding of SC differentiation and functioning in adult mammals.
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Nascimento AR, Macheroni C, Lucas TFG, Porto CS, Lazari MFM. Crosstalk between FSH and relaxin at the end of the proliferative stage of rat Sertoli cells. Reproduction 2016; 152:613-628. [PMID: 27601715 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates the proliferation of immature Sertoli cells through the activation of PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 and MEK/ERK1/2 pathways. Mature Sertoli cells stop proliferating and respond to FSH by stimulating cAMP production. To gain insight into possible mechanisms involved in this switch as well as the impact of paracrine factors that stimulate cell proliferation, we analyzed the effects of FSH and relaxin on intracellular signaling pathways involved with proliferation and differentiation in Sertoli cells from 15-day-old rats, which are close to the transition between the two stages. FSH stimulated 3H-thymidine incorporation and cyclin D1 expression, changes associated with proliferation. In contrast, FSH inhibited AKT and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, activated cAMP production and induced changes in several cell cycle genes that were compatible with differentiation. Relaxin also stimulated 3H-thymidine incorporation but increased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and AKT. When both hormones were added simultaneously, relaxin attenuated FSH-mediated inhibition of ERK1/2 and AKT phosphorylation and FSH-mediated activation of cAMP production. FSH but not relaxin increased CREB phosphorylation, and relaxin but not FSH shifted NF-κB expression from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. Relaxin did not inhibit the effects of FSH on inhibin α and Bcl2 expression. We propose that at this time of Sertoli cell development, FSH starts to direct cells to differentiation through activation of cAMP/CREB and inhibition of ERK1/2 and AKT pathways. Relaxin counteracts FSH signaling through the inhibition of cAMP and activation of ERK1/2, AKT and NF-κB, but does not block the differentiation process triggered by FSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline R Nascimento
- Section of Experimental EndocrinologyDepartment of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Carla Macheroni
- Section of Experimental EndocrinologyDepartment of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Thais F G Lucas
- Section of Experimental EndocrinologyDepartment of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Catarina S Porto
- Section of Experimental EndocrinologyDepartment of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria F M Lazari
- Section of Experimental EndocrinologyDepartment of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Gao Y, Cheng CY. Does cell polarity matter during spermatogenesis? SPERMATOGENESIS 2016; 6:e1218408. [PMID: 27635303 DOI: 10.1080/21565562.2016.1218408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cell polarity is crucial to development since apico-basal polarity conferred by the 3 polarity protein modules (or complexes) is essential during embryogenesis, namely the Par (partition defective)-, the CRB (Crumbs)-, and the Scribble-based polarity protein modules. While these protein complexes and their component proteins have been extensively studied in Drosophila and C. elegans and also other mammalian tissues and/or cells, their presence and physiological significance in the testis remain unexplored until the first paper on the Par-based protein published in 2008. Since then, the Par-, the Scribble- and the CRB-based protein complexes and their component proteins in the testis have been studied. These proteins are known to confer Sertoli and spermatid polarity in the seminiferous epithelium, and they are also integrated components of the tight junction (TJ) and the basal ectoplasmic specialization (ES) at the Sertoli cell-cell interface near the basement membrane, which in turn constitute the blood-testis barrier (BTB). These proteins are also found at the apical ES at the Sertoli-spermatid interface. Thus, these polarity proteins also play a significant role in regulating Sertoli and spermatid adhesion in the testis through their actions on actin-based cytoskeletal function. Recent studies have shown that these polarity proteins are having antagonistic effects on the BTB integrity in which the Par6- and CRB3-based polarity complexes promotes the integrity of the Sertoli cell TJ-permeability barrier, whereas the Scribble-based complex promotes restructuring/remodeling of the Sertoli TJ-barrier function. Herein, we carefully evaluate these findings and provide a hypothetic model regarding their role in the testis in the context of the functions of these polarity proteins in other epithelia, so that better experiments can be designed in future studies to explore their significance in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Gao
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council , New York, NY, USA
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council , New York, NY, USA
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Figueiredo AFA, França LR, Hess RA, Costa GMJ. Sertoli cells are capable of proliferation into adulthood in the transition region between the seminiferous tubules and the rete testis in Wistar rats. Cell Cycle 2016; 15:2486-96. [PMID: 27420022 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2016.1207835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs) play a crucial role in testis differentiation, development and function, determining the magnitude of sperm production in sexually mature animals. For over 40 years, it has been considered that these key testis somatic cells stop dividing during early pre-pubertal phase, between around 10 to 20 days after birth respectively in mice and rats, being after that under physiological conditions a stable and terminally differentiated population. However, evidences from the literature are challenging this dogma. In the present study, using several important functional markers (Ki-67, BrdU, p27, GATA-4, Androgen Receptor), we investigated the SC differentiation status in 36 days old and adult Wistar rats, focusing mainly in the transition region (TR) between the seminiferous tubules (ST) and the rete testis. Our results showed that SCs in TR remain undifferentiated for a longer period and, although at a lesser degree, even in adult rats proliferating SCs were observed in this region. Therefore, these findings suggest that, different from the other ST regions investigated, SCs residing in the TR exhibit a distinct functional phenotype. These undifferentiated SCs may compose a subpopulation of SC progenitors that reside in a specific microenvironment capable of growing the ST length if needed from this particular testis region. Moreover, our findings demonstrate an important aspect of testis function in mammals and opens new venues for other experimental approaches to the investigation of SC physiology, spermatogenesis progression and testis growth. Besides that, the TR may represent an important site for pathophysiological investigations and cellular interactions in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F A Figueiredo
- a Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , MG , Brazil
| | - L R França
- a Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , MG , Brazil.,b National Institute of Amazonian Research (INPA/Manaus), National Institute of Amazonian Research (INPA) , Manaus , AM , Brazil
| | - R A Hess
- c Department of Comparative Biosciences , University of Illinois , Urbana Champaign , IL , USA
| | - G M J Costa
- a Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , MG , Brazil
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YANG YANG, XING YIQIAO, LIANG CHAOQUN, HU LIYA, XU FEI, MEI QI. An examination of the regulatory mechanism of Pxdn mutation-induced eye disorders using microarray analysis. Int J Mol Med 2016; 37:1449-56. [PMID: 27121343 PMCID: PMC4866968 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2016.2572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to identify biomarkers for peroxidasin (Pxdn) mutation-induced eye disorders and study the underlying mechanisms involved in this process. The microarray dataset GSE49704 was used, which encompasses 4 mouse samples from embryos with Pxdn mutation and 4 samples from normal tissues. After data preprocessing, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between Pxdn mutation and normal tissues were identified using the t-test in the limma package, followed by functional enrichment analysis. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed based on the STRING database, and the transcriptional regulatory (TR) network was established using the GeneCodis database. Subsequently, the overlapping DEGs with high degrees in two networks were identified, as well as the sub-network extracted from the TR network. In total, 121 (75 upregulated and 46 downregulated) DEGs were identified, and these DEGs play important roles in biological processes (BPs), including neuron development and differentiation. A PPI network containing 25 nodes such as actin, alpha 1, skeletal muscle (Acta1) and troponin C type 2 (fast) (Tnnc2), and a TR network including 120 nodes were built. By comparing the two networks, seven crucial genes which overlapped were identified, including cyclin‑dependent kinase inhibitor 1B (Cdkn1b), Acta1 and troponin T type 3 (Tnnt3). In the sub-network, Cdkn1b was predicted as the target of miRNAs such as mmu-miR-24 and transcription factors (TFs) including forkhead box O4 (FOXO4) and activating enhancer binding protein 4 (AP4). Thus, we suggest that seven crucial genes, including Cdkn1b, Acta1 and Tnnt3, play important roles in the progression of eye disorders such as glaucoma. We suggest that Cdkn1b exert its effects via the inhibition of proliferation and is mediated by mmu-miR-24 and targeted by the TFs FOXO4 and AP4.
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Affiliation(s)
- YANG YANG
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - YIQIAO XING
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - CHAOQUN LIANG
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - LIYA HU
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - FEI XU
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - QI MEI
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
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DNA repair kinetics in SCID mice Sertoli cells and DNA-PKcs-deficient mouse embryonic fibroblasts. Chromosoma 2016; 126:287-298. [PMID: 27136939 PMCID: PMC5371645 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-016-0590-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Revised: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
Noncycling and terminally differentiated (TD) cells display differences in radiosensitivity and DNA damage response. Unlike other TD cells, Sertoli cells express a mixture of proliferation inducers and inhibitors in vivo and can reenter the cell cycle. Being in a G1-like cell cycle stage, TD Sertoli cells are expected to repair DSBs by the error-prone nonhomologous end-joining pathway (NHEJ). Recently, we have provided evidence for the involvement of Ku-dependent NHEJ in protecting testis cells from DNA damage as indicated by persistent foci of the DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair proteins phospho-H2AX, 53BP1, and phospho-ATM in TD Sertoli cells of Ku70-deficient mice. Here, we analyzed the kinetics of 53BP1 foci induction and decay up to 12 h after 0.5 Gy gamma irradiation in DNA-PKcs-deficient (Prkdc scid ) and wild-type Sertoli cells. In nonirradiated mice and Prkdc scid Sertoli cells displayed persistent DSBs foci in around 12 % of cells and a fivefold increase in numbers of these DSB DNA damage-related foci relative to the wild type. In irradiated mice, Prkdc scid Sertoli cells showed elevated levels of DSB-indicating foci in 82 % of cells 12 h after ionizing radiation (IR) exposure, relative to 52 % of irradiated wild-type Sertoli cells. These data indicate that Sertoli cells respond to and repair IR-induced DSBs in vivo, with repair kinetics being slow in the wild type and inefficient in Prkdc scid . Applying the same dose of IR to Prdkc -/- and Ku -/- mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells revealed a delayed induction of 53BP1 DSB-indicating foci 5 min post-IR in Prdkc -/- cells. Inefficient DSB repair was evident 7 h post-IR in DNA-PKcs-deficient cells, but not in Ku -/- MEFs. Our data show that quiescent Sertoli cells repair genotoxic DSBs by DNA-PKcs-dependent NEHJ in vivo with a slower kinetics relative to somatic DNA-PKcs-deficient cells in vitro, while DNA-PKcs deficiency caused inefficient DSB repair at later time points post-IR in both conditions. These observations suggest that DNA-PKcs contributes to the fast and slow repair of DSBs by NHEJ.
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Use of a rat ex-vivo testis culture method to assess toxicity of select known male reproductive toxicants. Reprod Toxicol 2016; 60:92-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2016.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Li N, Mruk DD, Lee WM, Wong CKC, Cheng CY. Is toxicant-induced Sertoli cell injury in vitro a useful model to study molecular mechanisms in spermatogenesis? Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 59:141-156. [PMID: 26779951 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells isolated from rodents or humans and cultured in vitro are known to establish a functional tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier that mimics the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in vivo. This model has been widely used by investigators to study the biology of the TJ and the BTB. Studies have shown that environmental toxicants (e.g., perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), bisphenol A (BPA) and cadmium) that exert their disruptive effects to induce Sertoli cell injury using this in vitro model are reproducible in studies in vivo. Thus, this in vitro system provides a convenient approach to probe the molecular mechanism(s) underlying toxicant-induced testis injury but also to provide new insights in understanding spermatogenesis, such as the biology of cell adhesion, BTB restructuring that supports preleptotene spermatocyte transport, and others. Herein, we provide a brief and critical review based on studies using this in vitro model of Sertoli cell cultures using primary cells isolated from rodent testes vs. humans to monitor environmental toxicant-mediated Sertoli cell injury. In short, recent findings have shown that environmental toxicants exert their effects on Sertoli cells to induce testis injury through their action on Sertoli cell actin- and/or microtubule-based cytoskeleton. These effects are mediated via their disruptive effects on actin- and/or microtubule-binding proteins. Sertoli cells also utilize differential spatiotemporal expression of these actin binding proteins to confer plasticity to the BTB to regulate germ cell transport across the BTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Li
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Dolores D Mruk
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Will M Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States.
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Baert Y, Braye A, Struijk RB, van Pelt AMM, Goossens E. Cryopreservation of testicular tissue before long-term testicular cell culture does not alter in vitro cell dynamics. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:1244-52.e1-4. [PMID: 26260199 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.07.1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether testicular cell dynamics are altered during long-term culture after testicular tissue cryopreservation. DESIGN Experimental basic science study. SETTING Reproductive biology laboratory. PATIENT(S) Testicular tissue with normal spermatogenesis was obtained from six donors. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Detection and comparison of testicular cells from fresh and frozen tissues during long-term culture. RESULT(S) Human testicular cells derived from fresh (n = 3) and cryopreserved (n = 3) tissues were cultured for 2 months and analyzed with quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence. Spermatogonia including spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) were reliably detected by combining VASA, a germ cell marker, with UCHL1, a marker expressed by spermatogonia. The established markers STAR, ACTA2, and SOX9 were used to analyze the presence of Leydig cells, peritubular myoid cells, and Sertoli cells, respectively. No obvious differences were found between the cultures initiated from fresh or cryopreserved tissues. Single or small groups of SSCs (VASA(+)/UCHL1(+)) were detected in considerable amounts up to 1 month of culture, but infrequently after 2 months. SSCs were found attached to the feeder monolayer, which expressed markers for Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and peritubular myoid cells. In addition, VASA(-)/UCHL1(+) cells, most likely originating from the interstitium, also contributed to this monolayer. Apart from Sertoli cells, all somatic cell types could be detected throughout the culture period. CONCLUSION(S) Testicular tissue can be cryopreserved before long-term culture without modifying its outcome, which encourages implementation of testicular tissue banking for fertility preservation. However, because of the limited numbers of SSCs available after 2 months, further exploration and optimization of the culture system is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoni Baert
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Aude Braye
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robin B Struijk
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen Goossens
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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Zakhidov ST, Marshak TL. Experimental evidence of proliferation and reproduction of highly differentiated Sertoli cells. BIOL BULL+ 2015. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062359015040159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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A Niche for GFRα1-Positive Spermatogonia in the Terminal Segments of the Seminiferous Tubules in Hamster Testes. Stem Cells 2015; 33:2811-24. [DOI: 10.1002/stem.2065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Al-Asmakh M, Hedin L. Microbiota and the control of blood-tissue barriers. Tissue Barriers 2015; 3:e1039691. [PMID: 26451344 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2015.1039691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2015] [Revised: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 04/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The gastro-intestinal tract is an ecosystem containing trillions of commensal bacteria living in symbiosis with the host. These microbiota modulate a variety of our physiological processes, including production of vitamins, absorption of nutrients and development of the immune system. One of their major functions is to fortify the intestinal barrier, thereby helping to prevent pathogens and harmful substances from crossing into the general circulation. Recently, effects of these microbiota on other blood-tissue barriers have also been reported. Here, we review the evidence indicating that gut bacteria play a role in regulating the blood-brain and blood-testis barriers. The underlying mechanisms include control of the expression of tight junction proteins by fermentation products such as butyrate, which also influences the activity of histone deacetylase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Al-Asmakh
- Department of Health Sciences; College of Arts and Sciences; Qatar University ; Doha, Qatar
| | - Lars Hedin
- Sidra Medical and Research Center; Division of Clinical Epidemiology ; Doha, Qatar
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Abstract
The gastro-intestinal tract is an ecosystem containing trillions of commensal bacteria living in symbiosis with the host. These microbiota modulate a variety of our physiological processes, including production of vitamins, absorption of nutrients and development of the immune system. One of their major functions is to fortify the intestinal barrier, thereby helping to prevent pathogens and harmful substances from crossing into the general circulation. Recently, effects of these microbiota on other blood-tissue barriers have also been reported. Here, we review the evidence indicating that gut bacteria play a role in regulating the blood-brain and blood-testis barriers. The underlying mechanisms include control of the expression of tight junction proteins by fermentation products such as butyrate, which also influences the activity of histone deacetylase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Al-Asmakh
- Department of Health Sciences; College of Arts and Sciences; Qatar University ; Doha, Qatar
| | - Lars Hedin
- Sidra Medical and Research Center; Division of Clinical Epidemiology ; Doha, Qatar
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Gao Y, Mruk DD, Cheng CY. Sertoli cells are the target of environmental toxicants in the testis - a mechanistic and therapeutic insight. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2015; 19:1073-90. [PMID: 25913180 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2015.1039513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sertoli cells support germ cell development in the testis via an elaborate network of cell junctions that confers structural, communicating, and signaling support. However, Sertoli cell junctions and cytoskeletons are the target of environmental toxicants. Because germ cells rely on Sertoli cells for the provision of structural/functional/nutritional support, exposure of males to toxicants leads to germ cell exfoliation due to Sertoli cell injuries. Interestingly, the molecular mechanism(s) by which toxicants induce cytoskeletal disruption that leads to germ cell exfoliation is unclear, until recent years, which are discussed herein. This information can possibly be used to therapeutically manage toxicant-induced infertility/subfertility in human males. AREAS COVERED In this review, we provide a brief update on the use of Sertoli cell system developed for rodents and humans in vitro, which can be deployed in any research laboratory with minimal upfront setup costs. These systems can be used to collect reliable data applicable to studies in vivo. We also discuss the latest findings on the mechanisms by which toxicants induce Sertoli cell injury, in particular cytoskeletal disruption. We also identify candidate molecules that are likely targets of toxicants. EXPERT OPINION We provide two hypothetical models delineating the mechanism by which toxicants induce germ cell exfoliation and blood-testis barrier disruption. We also discuss molecules that are the targets of toxicants as therapeutic candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Gao
- Population Council, Center for Biomedical Research , 1230 York Ave, New York, NY, 10065 , USA
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Guo Y, Hai Y, Yao C, Chen Z, Hou J, Li Z, He Z. Long-term culture and significant expansion of human Sertoli cells whilst maintaining stable global phenotype and AKT and SMAD1/5 activation. Cell Commun Signal 2015; 13:20. [PMID: 25880873 PMCID: PMC4380114 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-015-0101-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2014] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sertoli cells play key roles in regulating spermatogenesis and testis development by providing structural and nutritional supports. Recent studies demonstrate that Sertoli cells can be converted into functional neural stem cells. Adult Sertoli cells have previously been considered the terminally differentiated cells with a fixed and unmodifiable population after puberty. However, this concept has been challenged. Since the number of adult human Sertoli cells is limited, it is essential to culture these cells for a long period and expand them to obtain sufficient cells for their basic research and clinic applications. Nevertheless, the studies on human Sertoli cells are restricted, because it is difficult to get access to human testis tissues. RESULTS Here we isolated adult human Sertoli cells with a high purity and viability from obstructive azoospermia patients with normal spermatogenesis. Adult human Sertoli cells were cultured with DMEM/F12 and fetal bovine serum for 2 months, and they could be expanded with a 59,049-fold increase of cell numbers. Morphology, phenotypic characteristics, and the signaling pathways of adult human Sertoli cells from different passages were compared. Significantly, adult human Sertoli cells assumed similar morphological features, stable global gene expression profiles and numerous proteins, and activation of AKT and SMAD1/5 during long-period culture. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that adult human Sertoli cells can be cultured for a long period and expanded with remarkable increase of cell numbers whilst maintaining their primary morphology, phenotype and signaling pathways. This study could provide adequate human Sertoli cells for reproductive and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- 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, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, 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, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, 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, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Zheng Chen
- 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, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Jingmei Hou
- 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, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Urology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, 145 Shangdong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China.
| | - Zuping He
- 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, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China. .,Department of Urology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, 145 Shangdong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200127, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
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Tarulli GA, Stanton PG, Loveland KL, Rajpert-De Meyts E, McLachlan RI, Meachem SJ. A survey of Sertoli cell differentiation in men after gonadotropin suppression and in testicular cancer. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 3:e24014. [PMID: 23687617 PMCID: PMC3644048 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.24014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
It is widely held that the somatic cell population that is responsible for sperm development and output (Sertoli cells) is terminally differentiated and unmodifiable in adults. It is postulated, with little evidence, that Sertoli cells are not terminally differentiated in some phenotypes of infertility and testicular cancer. This study sought to compare markers of Sertoli cell differentiation in normospermic men, oligospermic men (undergoing gonadotropin suppression) and testicular carcinoma in situ (CIS) and seminoma samples. Confocal microscopy was used to assess the expression of markers of proliferation (PCNA and Ki67) and functional differentiation (androgen receptor). As additional markers of differentiation, the organization of Sertoli cell tight junction and associated proteins were assessed in specimens with carcinoma in situ. In normal men, Sertoli cells exhibited a differentiated phenotype (i.e., PCNA and Ki67 negative, androgen 40 receptor positive). However, after long-term gonadotropin suppression, 1.7 ± 0.6% of Sertoli cells exhibited PCNA reactivity associated with a diminished immunoreactivity in androgen receptor, suggesting an undifferentiated phenotype. Ki67-positive Sertoli cells were also observed. PCNA-positive Sertoli cells were never observed in tubules with carcinoma in situ, and only rarely observed adjacent to seminoma. Tight junction protein localization (claudin 11, JAM-A and ZO-1) was altered in CIS, with a reduction in JAM-A reactivity in Sertoli cells from tubules with CIS and the emergence of strong JAM-A reactivity in seminoma. These findings indicate that adult human Sertoli cells exhibit characteristics of an undifferentiated state in oligospermic men and patients with CIS and seminoma in the presence of germ cell neoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard A Tarulli
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research; Clayton; Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology; Monash University; Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter G Stanton
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research; Clayton; Victoria, Australia; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Monash University; Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Monash University; Victoria, Australia; Monash Institute of Medical Research; Monash University; Victoria, Australia
| | - Ewa Rajpert-De Meyts
- Department of Growth & Reproduction; University of Copenhagen (Rigshospitalet); Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robert I McLachlan
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research; Clayton; Victoria, Australia; Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology; Monash University; Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah J Meachem
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research; Clayton; Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology; Monash University; Victoria, Australia
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Wong EWP, Cheng CY. NC1 domain of collagen α3(IV) derived from the basement membrane regulates Sertoli cell blood-testis barrier dynamics. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 3:e25465. [PMID: 23885308 PMCID: PMC3710226 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.25465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Revised: 06/13/2013] [Accepted: 06/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is an important ultrastructure for spermatogenesis. Delay in BTB formation in neonatal rats or its irreversible damage in adult rats leads to meiotic arrest and failure of spermatogonial differentiation beyond type A. While hormones, such as testosterone and FSH, are crucial to BTB function, little is known if there is a local regulatory mechanism in the seminiferous epithelium that modulates BTB function. Herein, we report that collagen α3(IV) chain, a component of the basement membrane in the rat testis, could generate a noncollagenous (NC1) domain peptide [Colα3(IV) NC1] via limited proteolysis by matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and that the expression of MMP-9 was upregulated by TNFα. While recombinant Colα3(IV) NC1 protein produced in E. coli failed to perturb Sertoli cell tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier function, possibly due to the lack of glycosylation, Colα3(IV) NC1 recombinant protein produced in mammalian cells and purified to apparent homogeneity by affinity chromatography was found to reversibly perturb the Sertoli cell TJ-barrier function. Interestingly, Colα3(IV) NC1 recombinant protein did not perturb the steady-state levels of several TJ- (e.g., occludin, CAR, JAM-A, ZO-1) and basal ectoplasmic specialization- (e.g., N-cadherin, α-catenin, β-catenin) proteins at the BTB but induced changes in protein localization and/or distribution at the Sertoli cell-cell interface in which these proteins moved from the cell surface into the cell cytosol, thereby destabilizing the TJ function. These findings illustrate the presence of a local regulatory axis known as the BTB-basement membrane axis that regulates BTB restructuring during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elissa W P Wong
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research; Center for Biomedical Research; Population Council; New York, NY USA
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Su H, Luo F, Bao J, Wu S, Zhang X, Zhang Y, Duo S, Wu Y. Long-term culture and analysis of cashmere goat Sertoli cells. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2014; 50:918-25. [PMID: 25164184 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-013-9648-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2013] [Accepted: 06/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells have important functions in the testis for spermatogenesis. Thus, Sertoli cell culture systems have been established in many animals, such as rat, mouse, human, dog, cow, and pig, but a goat culture has not been reported. This study describes the isolation and culture of Sertoli cells from 3- to 4-month-old cashmere goat (Capra hircus) testes. These proliferative cells were expanded for 20 passages and repeatedly cryopreserved in vitro, in contrast to previous study in human, of which maintain steady growth for up to seven passages and only passages 1 to 5 could be refrozen. The microstructure and ultrastructure of the culture were typical of Sertoli cells, bearing irregular nuclei and a cytoplasm that was rich in smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, Golgi, lysosomes, lipid drops, and glycogenosomes. By immunofluorescence analysis, the all cells expressed SRY-related HMG box gene 9 (Sox9). Growth curves and 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation were used to analyze the proliferation of the cultured cells. With increasing passage times, the proliferation of the Sertoli cells declined, but the transcription of glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), stem cell factor (SCF), and β1-integrin was constant. By flow cytometry, the cells retained the ability to proliferate after 5 yr of cryopreservation. Thus, cashmere goat Sertoli cells have significant proliferative potential in vitro, expressing germ cell regulatory factors and have important applications in studying Sertoli cell-germ cell interactions, spermatogenesis, reproductive toxicology, and male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Su
- Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China for Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Biotechnology, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010021, China,
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Wang X, Qin J, Zhao RC, Zenke M. Reduced immunogenicity of induced pluripotent stem cells derived from Sertoli cells. PLoS One 2014; 9:e106110. [PMID: 25166861 PMCID: PMC4148392 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0106110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Accepted: 08/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells constitute the structural framework in testis and provide an immune-privileged environment for germ cells. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) resemble embryonic stem cells (ES cells) and are generated from somatic cells by expression of specific reprogramming transcription factors. Here, we used C57BL/6 (B6) Sertoli cells to generate iPS cells (Ser-iPS cells) and compared the immunogenicity of Ser-iPS cells with iPS cells derived from mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF-iPS cells). Ser-iPS cells were injected into syngeneic mice to test for their in vivo immunogenicity in teratoma assay. Teratoma assay allows assessing in vivo immunogenicity of iPS cells and of their differentiated progeny simultaneously. We observed that early-passage Ser-iPS cells formed more teratomas with less immune cell infiltration and tissue damage and necrosis than MEF-iPS cells. Differentiating Ser-iPS cells in embryoid bodies (EBs) showed reduced T cell activation potential compared to MEF-iPS cells, which was similar to syngeneic ES cells. However, Ser-iPS cells lost their reduced immunogenicity in vivo after extended passaging in vitro and late-passage Ser-iPS cells exhibited an immunogenicity similar to MEF-iPS cells. These findings indicate that early-passage Ser-iPS cells retain some somatic memory of Sertoli cells that impacts on immunogenicity of iPS cells and iPS cell-derived cells in vivo and in vitro. Our data suggest that immune-privileged Sertoli cells might represent a preferred source for iPS cell generation, if it comes to the use of iPS cell-derived cells for transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Wang
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, RWTH Aachen University Medical School, Aachen, Germany
- Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jie Qin
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, RWTH Aachen University Medical School, Aachen, Germany
- Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Robert Chunhua Zhao
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Center of Excellence in Tissue Engineering, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Martin Zenke
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, RWTH Aachen University Medical School, Aachen, Germany
- Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- * E-mail:
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45
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Sun Y, Yang W, Luo H, Wang X, Chen Z, Zhang J, Wang Y, Li X. Thyroid hormone inhibits the proliferation of piglet Sertoli cell via PI3K signaling pathway. Theriogenology 2014; 83:86-94. [PMID: 25284282 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2014] [Revised: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating researches show that thyroid hormone (TH) inhibits Sertoli cells (SCs) proliferation and stimulates their functional maturation in prepubertal rat testis, confirming that TH plays a key role in testicular development. However, the mechanism under the T3 regulation of piglet SC proliferation remains unclear. In the present study, in order to investigate the possible mechanism of T3 on the suppression of SC proliferation, the expression pattern of TRα1 and cell cycle-related molecules, effect of T3 on SC proliferation, and the role of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway on the T3-mediated SC proliferation in piglet testis were explored. Our results demonstrated that TRα1 was expressed in all tested stages of SCs and decreased along with the ages. T3 inhibited the proliferation of SCs in a time- and dose-dependent manner, and T3 treatment downregulated the expressions of cell cycling molecules, such as cyclinA2, cyclinD1, cyclinE1, PCNA, and Skp2, but upregulated the p27 expression in SCs. Most importantly, the suppressive effects of T3 on SC proliferation seemed dependent on the inhibition of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, and pre-stimulation of PI3K could enhance such suppressive effects. Together, our findings demonstrate that TH inhibits the proliferation of piglet SCs via the suppression of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, PR China; ChongQing Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center, YuBei, ChongQing, PR China
| | - WeiRong Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, PR China
| | - HongLin Luo
- Guanxi Key Laboratory for Aquatic Genetic Breeding and Healthy Aquaculture, Guangxi Institute of Fisheries, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China
| | - XianZhong Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, PR China
| | - ZhongQiong Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, PR China; ChongQing Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center, YuBei, ChongQing, PR China
| | - JiaoJiao Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yi Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, PR China
| | - XiaoMin Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, PR China.
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Dvorakova-Hortova K, Sidlova A, Ded L, Hladovcova D, Vieweg M, Weidner W, Steger K, Stopka P, Paradowska-Dogan A. Toxoplasma gondii decreases the reproductive fitness in mice. PLoS One 2014; 9:e96770. [PMID: 24940596 PMCID: PMC4062421 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0096770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2013] [Accepted: 04/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a common protozoan parasite that infects warm-blooded animals throughout the world, including mice and humans. During infection, both, the parasite and the host, utilize various mechanisms to maximize their own reproductive success. Mice and humans are both the intermediate hosts for Toxoplasma gondii, which forms specialized vacuoles containing reproductive cysts in the formers' tissue. As half of the human population is infected, developing a disease called toxoplasmosis, along with an ever-growing number of couples suffering with idiopathic infertility, it is therefore surprising that there is a lack of research on how Toxoplasma gondii can alter reproductive parameters. In this study, a detailed histometric screening of the testicular function along with the levels of the pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) were analysed in infected mice. Data on relative testis and epididymis weight, and sperm count were also collected. Based on the results obtained, the level of LH in the urine of Toxoplasma gondii infected mice was lower compared to the control. In direct correlation with the hormone level, testicular function and sperm production was also significantly lower in Toxoplasma gondii positive group using sperm count and histometric analysis as a marker. Not only were the number of leptotene primary spermatocytes and spermatids lowered, but the number of Sertoli cells and the tubule diameter were elevated. In parallel, a pilot epigenetic study on global testicular methylation, and specific methylation of Crem, Creb1 and Hspa1genes essential for successfully ongoing spermatogenesis was performed. Global methylation was elevated in Toxoplasma infected mice, and differences in the DNA methylation of selected genes were detected between the Toxoplasma positive and control group. These findings demonstrate a direct relation between Toxoplasma gondii infection and the decrease of male reproductive fitness in mice, which may contribute to an increase of idiopathic infertility in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Dvorakova-Hortova
- Biocev Group, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Adela Sidlova
- Biocev Group, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lukas Ded
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, Academy of Science, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Denisa Hladovcova
- Biocev Group, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Markus Vieweg
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Weidner
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Klaus Steger
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Pavel Stopka
- Biocev Group, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Agnieszka Paradowska-Dogan
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Retinoblastoma protein (RB) interacts with E2F3 to control terminal differentiation of Sertoli cells. Cell Death Dis 2014; 5:e1274. [PMID: 24901045 PMCID: PMC4611710 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2014.232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Revised: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The retinoblastoma protein (RB) is essential for normal cell cycle control. RB function depends, at least in part, on interactions with the E2F family of DNA-binding transcription factors (E2Fs). To study the role of RB in the adult testis, a Sertoli cell (SC)-specific Rb knockout mouse line (SC-RbKO) was generated using the Cre/loxP recombination system. SC-RbKO mice exhibited an age-dependent testicular atrophy, impaired fertility, severe SC dysfunction, and spermatogenic defects. Removal of Rb in SC induced aberrant SC cycling, dedifferentiation, and apoptosis. Here we show that E2F3 is the only E2F expressed in mouse SCs and that RB interacts with E2F3 during mouse testicular development. In the absence of RB, the other retinoblastoma family members p107 and p130 began interacting with E2F3 in the adult testes. In vivo silencing of E2F3 partially restored the SC maturation and survival as well as spermatogenesis in the SC-RbKO mice. These results point to RB as a key regulator of SC function in adult mice and that the RB/E2F3 pathway directs SC maturation, cell cycle quiescence, and RB protects SC from apoptosis.
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Holembowski L, Kramer D, Riedel D, Sordella R, Nemajerova A, Dobbelstein M, Moll UM. TAp73 is essential for germ cell adhesion and maturation in testis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 204:1173-90. [PMID: 24662569 PMCID: PMC3971741 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201306066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The p53 family member TAp73 is required for sperm maturation through promotion of adhesion between developing germ cells and Sertoli nurse cells. A core evolutionary function of the p53 family is to protect the genomic integrity of gametes. However, the role of p73 in the male germ line is unknown. Here, we reveal that TAp73 unexpectedly functions as an adhesion and maturation factor of the seminiferous epithelium orchestrating spermiogenesis. TAp73 knockout (TAp73KO) and p73KO mice, but not ΔNp73KO mice, display a “near-empty seminiferous tubule” phenotype due to massive premature loss of immature germ cells. The cellular basis of this phenotype is defective cell–cell adhesions of developing germ cells to Sertoli nurse cells, with likely secondary degeneration of Sertoli cells, including the blood–testis barrier, which leads to disruption of the adhesive integrity and maturation of the germ epithelium. At the molecular level, TAp73, which is produced in germ cells, controls a coordinated transcriptional program of adhesion- and migration-related proteins including peptidase inhibitors, proteases, receptors, and integrins required for germ–Sertoli cell adhesion and dynamic junctional restructuring. Thus, we propose the testis as a unique organ with strict division of labor among all family members: p63 and p53 safeguard germ line fidelity, whereas TAp73 ensures fertility by enabling sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Holembowski
- Department of Molecular Oncology, University of Göttingen, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
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Lucas TF, Nascimento AR, Pisolato R, Pimenta MT, Lazari MFM, Porto CS. Receptors and signaling pathways involved in proliferation and differentiation of Sertoli cells. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 4:e28138. [PMID: 25225624 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.28138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Revised: 02/05/2014] [Accepted: 02/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The identification of the hormones and other factors regulating Sertoli cell survival, proliferation, and maturation in neonatal, peripubertal, and pubertal life remains one of the most critical questions in testicular biology. The regulation of Sertoli cell proliferation and differentiation is thought to be controlled by cell-cell junctions and a set of circulating and local hormones and growth factors. In this review, we will focus on receptors and intracellular signaling pathways activated by androgen, follicle-stimulating hormone, thyroid hormone, activin, retinoids, insulin, insulin-like growth factor, relaxin, and estrogen, with special emphasis on estrogen receptors. Estrogen receptors activate intracellular signaling pathways that converge on cell cycle and transcription factors and play a role in the regulation of Sertoli cell proliferation and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís Fg Lucas
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; INFAR; Vila Clementino; São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Aline R Nascimento
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; INFAR; Vila Clementino; São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Raisa Pisolato
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; INFAR; Vila Clementino; São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Maristela T Pimenta
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; INFAR; Vila Clementino; São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Maria Fatima M Lazari
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; INFAR; Vila Clementino; São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Catarina S Porto
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; INFAR; Vila Clementino; São Paulo, SP Brazil
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Xiao X, Mruk DD, Tang EI, Wong CKC, Lee WM, John CM, Turek PJ, Silvestrini B, Cheng CY. Environmental toxicants perturb human Sertoli cell adhesive function via changes in F-actin organization mediated by actin regulatory proteins. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:1279-91. [PMID: 24532171 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can human Sertoli cells cultured in vitro and that have formed an epithelium be used as a model to monitor toxicant-induced junction disruption and to better understand the mechanism(s) by which toxicants disrupt cell adhesion at the Sertoli cell blood-testis barrier (BTB)? SUMMARY ANSWER Our findings illustrate that human Sertoli cells cultured in vitro serve as a reliable system to monitor the impact of environmental toxicants on the BTB function. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Suspicions of a declining trend in semen quality and a concomitant increase in exposures to environmental toxicants over the past decades reveal the need of an in vitro system that efficiently and reliably monitors the impact of toxicants on male reproductive function. Furthermore, studies in rodents have confirmed that environmental toxicants impede Sertoli cell BTB function in vitro and in vivo. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE AND DURATION We examined the effects of two environmental toxicants: cadmium chloride (0.5-20 µM) and bisphenol A (0.4-200 µM) on human Sertoli cell function. Cultured Sertoli cells from three men were used in this study, which spanned an 18-month period. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human Sertoli cells from three subjects were cultured in F12/DMEM containing 5% fetal bovine serum. Changes in protein expression were monitored by immunoblotting using specific antibodies. Immunofluorescence analyses were used to assess changes in the distribution of adhesion proteins, F-actin and actin regulatory proteins following exposure to two toxicants: cadmium chloride and bisphenol A (BPA). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Human Sertoli cells were sensitive to cadmium and BPA toxicity. Changes in the localization of cell adhesion proteins were mediated by an alteration of the actin-based cytoskeleton. This alteration of F-actin network in Sertoli cells as manifested by truncation and depolymerization of actin microfilaments at the Sertoli cell BTB was caused by mislocalization of actin filament barbed end capping and bundling protein Eps8, and branched actin polymerization protein Arp3. Besides impeding actin dynamics, endocytic vesicle-mediated trafficking and the proper localization of actin regulatory proteins c-Src and annexin II in Sertoli cells were also affected. Results of statistical analysis demonstrate that these findings were not obtained by chance. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION (i) This study was done in vitro and might not extrapolate to the in vivo state, (ii) conclusions are based on the use of Sertoli cell samples from three men and (iii) it is uncertain if the concentrations of toxicants used in the experiments are reached in vivo. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Human Sertoli cells cultured in vitro provide a robust model to monitor environmental toxicant-mediated disruption of Sertoli cell BTB function and to study the mechanism(s) of toxicant-induced testicular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Xiao
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
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