1
|
Zhang Z, Jiang Z, Cheng J, Price CA, Yang L, Li Q. Nicotine induces senescence in spermatogonia stem cells by disrupting homeostasis between circadian oscillation and rhythmic mitochondrial dynamics via the SIRT6/Bmal1 pathway. Life Sci 2024; 352:122860. [PMID: 38936603 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122860] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Infertility is intricately linked with alterations in circadian rhythms along with physiological decline and stem cell senescence. Yet, the direct involvement of circadian mechanisms in nicotine-induced injury to the testes, especially the senescence of spermatogonia stem cells (SSCs), is not well comprehended. This study revealed that nicotine exposure induced testis injury by triggering SSCs senescence along with the upregulation of senescence marker genes and senescence-associated secretory phenotype components. Moreover, nicotine treatment caused mitochondrial hyper-fusion, increased oxidative stress, and DNA damage. Exposure to nicotine was found to suppress the expression of sirtuin 6 (SIRT6), which accelerated the senescence of spermatogonia stem cells (SSCs). This acceleration led to increased acetylation of brain and muscle ARNT-like protein (Bmal1), consequently reducing the expression of Bmal1 protein. Conversely, the overexpression of Bmal1 alleviated mitochondrial hyper-fusion and senescence phenotypes induced by nicotine. Overall, this study unveiled a novel molecular mechanism behind nicotine-induced disorders in spermatogenesis and highlighted the SIRT6/Bmal1 regulatory pathway as a potential therapeutic target for combating nicotine-associated infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zelin Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Zhongliang Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jianyong Cheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Christopher A Price
- Centre de recherche en reproduction & fertility, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 7C6, Canada
| | - Li Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Qingwang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vaishnavi Nalla S, Jayapradha P, Lalruatmawii, Nandheeswari K, Naxine P, Vigneshwaran G, Rohilla G, Dubey I, Kushwaha S. Irisin as an emerging target in the regulation of reproductive functions in health and disease. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 353:114529. [PMID: 38643847 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2024.114529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Germ cells are highly conserved in the gonads, nurtured to either develop into a gamete or self-renew into a stem cell reserve. Preserving the germ cell pool and protecting the reproductive organs is essential for maintaining an individual's fertility. Several factors, including a sedentary lifestyle, pollutants, hormonal disruption, drugs, and a disease condition, have been shown to impair normal reproductive function. Irisin has recently been identified as an adipomyokine involved in modulating physiological functions based on the body's metabolic status. It is being studied for its role in various functions, including fertility. Findings show the localization of irisin in various parts of the reproductive axis, with the highest levels observed during puberty and pregnancy. This raises questions about its role and function in reproduction. Studies support irisin's role in protecting against disease-induced reproductive abnormalities and infertility. Therefore, the current review focuses on how irisin influences spermatogenesis and ovarian follicular development and plays a significant role in indirectly preserving the germ cell pool by protecting the gonads against oxidative stress and inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sree Vaishnavi Nalla
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - P Jayapradha
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - Lalruatmawii
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - K Nandheeswari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - Pratik Naxine
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - G Vigneshwaran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - Gaurav Rohilla
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - Itishree Dubey
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - Sapana Kushwaha
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhao Y, Deng S, Li C, Cao J, Wu A, Chen M, Ma X, Wu S, Lian Z. The Role of Retinoic Acid in Spermatogenesis and Its Application in Male Reproduction. Cells 2024; 13:1092. [PMID: 38994945 PMCID: PMC11240464 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis in mammalian testes is essential for male fertility, ensuring a continuous supply of mature sperm. The testicular microenvironment finely tunes this process, with retinoic acid, an active metabolite of vitamin A, serving a pivotal role. Retinoic acid is critical for various stages, including the differentiation of spermatogonia, meiosis in spermatogenic cells, and the production of mature spermatozoa. Vitamin A deficiency halts spermatogenesis, leading to the degeneration of numerous germ cells, a condition reversible with retinoic acid supplementation. Although retinoic acid can restore fertility in some males with reproductive disorders, it does not work universally. Furthermore, high doses may adversely affect reproduction. The inconsistent outcomes of retinoid treatments in addressing infertility are linked to the incomplete understanding of the molecular mechanisms through which retinoid signaling governs spermatogenesis. In addition to the treatment of male reproductive disorders, the role of retinoic acid in spermatogenesis also provides new ideas for the development of male non-hormone contraceptives. This paper will explore three facets: the synthesis and breakdown of retinoic acid in the testes, its role in spermatogenesis, and its application in male reproduction. Our discussion aims to provide a comprehensive reference for studying the regulatory effects of retinoic acid signaling on spermatogenesis and offer insights into its use in treating male reproductive issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shoulong Deng
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Animal Model, National Health Commission of China (NHC) Key Laboratory of Comparative Medicine, Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Comparative Medicine Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Chongyang Li
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jingchao Cao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Aowu Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Mingming Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xuehai Ma
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Mental Development and Learning Science, College of Psychology, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi 830017, China
| | - Sen Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhengxing Lian
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yang L, Liao J, Huang H, Lee TL, Qi H. Stage-specific regulation of undifferentiated spermatogonia by AKT1S1-mediated AKT-mTORC1 signaling during mouse spermatogenesis. Dev Biol 2024; 509:11-27. [PMID: 38311163 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2024.02.002] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Undifferentiated spermatogonia are composed of a heterogeneous cell population including spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of various spermatogonial cohorts during their self-renewal and differentiation are largely unclear. Here we show that AKT1S1, an AKT substrate and inhibitor of mTORC1, regulates the homeostasis of undifferentiated spermatogonia. Although deletion of Akt1s1 in mouse appears not grossly affecting steady-state spermatogenesis and male mice are fertile, the subset of differentiation-primed OCT4+ spermatogonia decreased significantly, whereas self-renewing GFRα1+ and proliferating PLZF+ spermatogonia were sustained. Both neonatal prospermatogonia and the first wave spermatogenesis were greatly reduced in Akt1s1-/- mice. Further analyses suggest that OCT4+ spermatogonia in Akt1s1-/- mice possess altered PI3K/AKT-mTORC1 signaling, gene expression and carbohydrate metabolism, leading to their functionally compromised developmental potential. Collectively, these results revealed an important role of AKT1S1 in mediating the stage-specific signals that regulate the self-renewal and differentiation of spermatogonia during mouse spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lele Yang
- Center for Cell Lineage and Development, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China; GIBH-HKU Guangdong-Hong Kong Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China; GIBH-CUHK Joint Research Laboratory on Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | - Jinyue Liao
- GIBH-CUHK Joint Research Laboratory on Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China; School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Hongying Huang
- The Experimental Animal Center, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | - Tin Lap Lee
- GIBH-CUHK Joint Research Laboratory on Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China; School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Huayu Qi
- Center for Cell Lineage and Development, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China; GIBH-HKU Guangdong-Hong Kong Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China; GIBH-CUHK Joint Research Laboratory on Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hong SH, Castro G, Wang D, Nofsinger R, Kane M, Folias A, Atkins AR, Yu RT, Napoli JL, Sassone-Corsi P, de Rooij DG, Liddle C, Downes M, Evans RM. Targeting nuclear receptor corepressors for reversible male contraception. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2320129121. [PMID: 38377195 PMCID: PMC10907271 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2320129121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite numerous female contraceptive options, nearly half of all pregnancies are unintended. Family planning choices for men are currently limited to unreliable condoms and invasive vasectomies with questionable reversibility. Here, we report the development of an oral contraceptive approach based on transcriptional disruption of cyclical gene expression patterns during spermatogenesis. Spermatogenesis involves a continuous series of self-renewal and differentiation programs of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) that is regulated by retinoic acid (RA)-dependent activation of receptors (RARs), which control target gene expression through association with corepressor proteins. We have found that the interaction between RAR and the corepressor silencing mediator of retinoid and thyroid hormone receptors (SMRT) is essential for spermatogenesis. In a genetically engineered mouse model that negates SMRT-RAR binding (SMRTmRID mice), the synchronized, cyclic expression of RAR-dependent genes along the seminiferous tubules is disrupted. Notably, the presence of an RA-resistant SSC population that survives RAR de-repression suggests that the infertility attributed to the loss of SMRT-mediated repression is reversible. Supporting this notion, we show that inhibiting the action of the SMRT complex with chronic, low-dose oral administration of a histone deacetylase inhibitor reversibly blocks spermatogenesis and fertility without affecting libido. This demonstration validates pharmacologic targeting of the SMRT repressor complex for non-hormonal male contraception.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suk-Hyun Hong
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA92037
| | - Glenda Castro
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA92037
| | - Dan Wang
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA92037
| | - Russell Nofsinger
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA92037
| | - Maureen Kane
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, The University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
| | - Alexandra Folias
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, The University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
| | - Annette R. Atkins
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA92037
| | - Ruth T. Yu
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA92037
| | - Joseph L. Napoli
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, The University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
| | - Paolo Sassone-Corsi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Center for Epigenetics and Metabolism, U1233 INSERM, University of California, Irvine, CA92697
| | - Dirk G. de Rooij
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CHUtrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Christopher Liddle
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research and Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW2145, Australia
| | - Michael Downes
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA92037
| | - Ronald M. Evans
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA92037
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yoo HS, Cockrum MA, Napoli JL. Cyp26a1 supports postnatal retinoic acid homeostasis and glucoregulatory control. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:104669. [PMID: 37011860 PMCID: PMC10176252 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Considerable evidence confirms the importance of Cyp26a1 to all-trans-retinoic acid (RA) homeostasis during embryogenesis. In contrast, despite its presence in postnatal liver as a potential major RA catabolizing enzyme and its acute sensitivity to induction by RA, some data suggested that Cyp26a1 contributes only marginally to endogenous RA homeostasis postnatally. We report reevaluation of a conditional Cyp26a1 knockdown in the postnatal mouse. The current results show that Cyp26a1 mRNA in WT mouse liver increases 16-fold upon refeeding after a fast, accompanied by an increased rate of RA elimination and a 41% decrease in the RA concentration. In contrast, Cyp26a1 mRNA in the refed homozygotic knockdown reached only 2% of its extent in WT during refeeding, accompanied by a slower rate of RA catabolism and no decrease in liver RA, relative to fasting. Refed homozygous knockdown mice also had decreased Akt1 and 2 phosphorylation and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (Pdk4) mRNA and increased glucokinase (Gck) mRNA, glycogen phosphorylase (Pygl) phosphorylation, and serum glucose, relative to WT. Fasted homozygous knockdown mice had increased glucagon/insulin relative to WT. These data indicate that Cyp26a1 participates prominently in moderating the postnatal liver concentration of endogenous RA and contributes essentially to glucoregulatory control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Sik Yoo
- Graduate Program in Metabolic Biology, Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, UC-Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Michael A Cockrum
- Graduate Program in Metabolic Biology, Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, UC-Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Joseph L Napoli
- Graduate Program in Metabolic Biology, Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, UC-Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pasquariello R, Anipchenko P, Pennarossa G, Crociati M, Zerani M, Brevini TA, Gandolfi F, Maranesi M. Carotenoids in female and male reproduction. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2022; 204:113459. [PMID: 36183866 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2022.113459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Carotenoids are among the best-known pigments in nature, confer color to plants and animals, and are mainly derived from photosynthetic bacteria, fungi, algae, plants. Mammals cannot synthesize carotenoids. Carotenoids' source is only alimentary and after their assumption, they are mainly converted in retinal, retinol and retinoic acid, collectively known also as pro-vitamins and vitamin A, which play an essential role in tissue growth and regulate different aspects of the reproductive functions. However, their mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic effects are still unclear. This review aims to clarify the role of carotenoids in the male and female reproductive functions in species of veterinary interest. In female, carotenoids and their derivatives regulate not only folliculogenesis and oogenesis but also steroidogenesis. Moreover, they improve fertility by decreasing the risk of embryonic mortality. In male, retinol and retinoic acids activate molecular pathways related to spermatogenesis. Deficiencies of these vitamins have been correlated with degeneration of testis parenchyma with consequent absence of the mature sperm. Carotenoids have also been considered anti-antioxidants as they ameliorate the effect of free radicals. The mechanisms of action seem to be exerted by activating Kit and Stra8 pathways in both female and male. In conclusion, carotenoids have potentially beneficial effects for ameliorating ovarian and testes function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rolando Pasquariello
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences - Production, Landscape, Agroenergy, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Polina Anipchenko
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via S. Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| | - Georgia Pennarossa
- Laboratory of Biomedical Embryology, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 26900, Lodi, Italy.
| | - Martina Crociati
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via S. Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy; Centre for Perinatal and Reproductive Medicine, University of Perugia, 06129, Perugia, Italy
| | - Massimo Zerani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via S. Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| | - Tiziana Al Brevini
- Laboratory of Biomedical Embryology, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Fulvio Gandolfi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences - Production, Landscape, Agroenergy, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Margherita Maranesi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via S. Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Johnson C, Kiefer H, Chaulot-Talmon A, Dance A, Sellem E, Jouneau L, Jammes H, Kastelic J, Thundathil J. Prepubertal nutritional modulation in the bull and its impact on sperm DNA methylation. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 389:587-601. [PMID: 35779136 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03659-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Enhanced pre-pubertal nutrition in Holstein bulls increased reproductive hormone production and sperm production potential with no negative effects on sperm quality. However, recent trends in human epigenetic research have identified pre-pubertal period to be critical for epigenetic reprogramming in males. Our objective was to evaluate the methylation changes in sperm of bulls exposed to different pre-pubertal diets. One-week-old Holstein bull calves (n = 9), randomly allocated to 3 groups, were fed either a high, medium or low diet (20%, 17% or 12.2% crude protein and 67.9%, 66% or 62.9% total digestible nutrients, respectively) from 2 to 32 weeks of age, followed by medium nutrition. Semen collected from bulls at two specific time points, i.e. 55-59 and 69-71 weeks, was diluted, cryopreserved and used for reduced representation bisulfite sequencing. Differential methylation was detected for dietary treatment, but minimal differences were detected with age. The gene ontology term, "regulation of Rho protein signal transduction", implicated in sperm motility and acrosome reaction, was enriched in both low-vs-high and low-vs-medium datasets. Furthermore, several genes implicated in early embryo and foetal development showed differential methylation for diet. Our results therefore suggest that sperm epigenome keeps the memory of diet during pre-pubertal period in genes important for spermatogenesis, sperm function and early embryo development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chinju Johnson
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada.
| | - Hélène Kiefer
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, ENVA, BREED, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | | | - Alysha Dance
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Eli Sellem
- R&D Department, ALLICE, 149 rue de Bercy, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Luc Jouneau
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, ENVA, BREED, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Hélène Jammes
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, ENVA, BREED, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - John Kastelic
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Jacob Thundathil
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Xie M, Hu X, Li L, Xiong Z, Zhang H, Zhuang Y, Huang Z, Liu J, Lian J, Huang C, Xie Q, Kang X, Fan Y, Bai X, Chen Z. Loss of Raptor induces Sertoli cells into an undifferentiated state in mice. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1125-1138. [PMID: 35594452 PMCID: PMC9562113 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, testis development is triggered by the expression of the sex-determining Y-chromosome gene SRY to commit the Sertoli cell (SC) fate at gonadal sex determination in the fetus. Several genes have been identified to be required to promote the testis pathway following SRY activation (i.e., SRY box 9 (SOX9)) in an embryo; however, it largely remains unknown about the genes and the mechanisms involved in stabilizing the testis pathway after birth and throughout adulthood. Herein, we report postnatal males with SC-specific deletion of Raptor demonstrated the absence of SC unique identity and adversely acquired granulosa cell-like characteristics, along with loss of tubular architecture and scattered distribution of SCs and germ cells. Subsequent genome-wide analysis by RNA sequencing revealed a profound decrease in the transcripts of testis genes (i.e., Sox9, Sox8, and anti-Mullerian hormone (Amh)) and, conversely, an increase in ovary genes (i.e., LIM/Homeobox gene 9 (Lhx9), Forkhead box L2 (Foxl2) and Follistatin (Fst)); these changes were further confirmed by immunofluorescence and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Importantly, co-immunofluorescence demonstrated that Raptor deficiency induced SCs dedifferentiation into a progenitor state; the Raptor-mutant gonads showed some ovarian somatic cell features, accompanied by enhanced female steroidogenesis and elevated estrogen levels, yet the zona pellucida 3 (ZP3)-positive terminally feminized oocytes were not observed. In vitro experiments with primary SCs suggested that Raptor is likely involved in the fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9)-induced formation of cell junctions among SCs. Our results established that Raptor is required to maintain SC identity, stabilize the male pathway, and promote testis development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Zhi Xiong
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hanbin Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuge Zhuang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zicong Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinsheng Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jingyao Lian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chuyu Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiang Xie
- Center for Reproduction, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University (Dongguan People’s Hospital), Dongguan, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiangjin Kang
- Correspondence: Xiangjin Kang, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: ; Yong Fan, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: ; Xiaochun Bai, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: ; Zhenguo Chen, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: (Lead Contact)
| | - Yong Fan
- Correspondence: Xiangjin Kang, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: ; Yong Fan, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: ; Xiaochun Bai, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: ; Zhenguo Chen, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: (Lead Contact)
| | - Xiaochun Bai
- Correspondence: Xiangjin Kang, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: ; Yong Fan, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: ; Xiaochun Bai, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: ; Zhenguo Chen, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: (Lead Contact)
| | - Zhenguo Chen
- Correspondence: Xiangjin Kang, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: ; Yong Fan, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: ; Xiaochun Bai, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: ; Zhenguo Chen, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. E-mail: (Lead Contact)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Inoue H, Sakurai T, Hasegawa K, Suzuki A, Saga Y. NANOS3 suppresses premature spermatogonial differentiation to expand progenitors and fine-tunes spermatogenesis in mice. Biol Open 2022; 11:274984. [PMID: 35394008 PMCID: PMC9002807 DOI: 10.1242/bio.059146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In the mouse testis, sperm originate from spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). SSCs give rise to spermatogonial progenitors, which expand their population until entering the differentiation process that is precisely regulated by a fixed time-scaled program called the seminiferous cycle. Although this expansion process of progenitors is highly important, its regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. NANOS3 is an RNA-binding protein expressed in the progenitor population. We demonstrated that the conditional deletion of Nanos3 at a later embryonic stage results in the reduction of spermatogonial progenitors in the postnatal testis. This reduction was associated with the premature differentiation of progenitors. Furthermore, this premature differentiation caused seminiferous stage disagreement between adjacent spermatogenic cells, which influenced spermatogenic epithelial cycles, leading to disruption of the later differentiation pathway. Our study suggests that NANOS3 plays an important role in timing progenitor expansion to adjust to the proper differentiation timing by blocking the retinoic acid (RA) signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Inoue
- Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, Mammalian Development Laboratory, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, 411-8540Japan
| | - Takayuki Sakurai
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, The Graduate University for Advised Studies (SOKENDAI), Mishima, 411-8540Japan
| | - Kazuteru Hasegawa
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, The Graduate University for Advised Studies (SOKENDAI), Mishima, 411-8540Japan
| | - Atsushi Suzuki
- Division of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yokohama National University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 240-8501Japan
| | - Yumiko Saga
- Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, Mammalian Development Laboratory, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, 411-8540Japan.,Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, The Graduate University for Advised Studies (SOKENDAI), Mishima, 411-8540Japan.,Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bhattacharya I, Sharma P, Purohit S, Kothiyal S, Das M, Banerjee A. Recent Update on Retinoic Acid-Driven Initiation of Spermatogonial Differentiation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:833759. [PMID: 35372365 PMCID: PMC8965804 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.833759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Germ cells (Gc) propagate the genetic information to subsequent generations. Diploid (2n) Gc get transformed to specialized haploid (n) gametes by mitotic and meiotic divisions in adult gonads. Retinoic acid (RA), an active derivative of vitamin A (retinol), plays a critical role in organ morphogenesis and regulates the meiotic onset in developing Gc. Unlike ovaries, fetal testes express an RA-degrading enzyme CYP26B1, and thereby, male Gc fail to enter into meiosis and instead get arrested at G0/G1 stage, termed as gonocytes/pro-spermatogonia by embryonic (E) 13.5 days. These gonocytes are transformed into spermatogonial stem/progenitor cells after birth (1–3 days of neonatal age). During post-natal testicular maturation, the differentiating spermatogonia enter into the meiotic prophase under the influence RA, independent of gonadotropic (both FSH and LH) support. The first pulse of RA ensures the transition of undifferentiated type A spermatogonia to differentiated A1 spermatogonia and upregulates STRA8 expression in Gc. Whereas, the second pulse of RA induces the meiotic prophase by augmenting MEIOSIN expression in differentiated spermatogonia B. This opinion article briefly reviews our current understanding on the RA-driven spermatogonial differentiation in murine testes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, HNB Garhwal University, A Central University, Srinagar Campus, Uttarakhand, India
- *Correspondence: Indrashis Bhattacharya, ; Arnab Banerjee,
| | - Partigya Sharma
- Department of Zoology, HNB Garhwal University, A Central University, Srinagar Campus, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Shriya Purohit
- Department of Zoology, HNB Garhwal University, A Central University, Srinagar Campus, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Sachin Kothiyal
- Department of Zoology, HNB Garhwal University, A Central University, Srinagar Campus, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Moitreyi Das
- Department of Biotechnology, Goa University, Taleigao, India
| | - Arnab Banerjee
- Department of Biological Sciences, KK Birla, Goa Campus, BITS Pilani, Zuarinagar, India
- *Correspondence: Indrashis Bhattacharya, ; Arnab Banerjee,
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ruthig VA, Lamb DJ. Updates in Sertoli Cell-Mediated Signaling During Spermatogenesis and Advances in Restoring Sertoli Cell Function. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:897196. [PMID: 35600584 PMCID: PMC9114725 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.897196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Since their initial description by Enrico Sertoli in 1865, Sertoli cells have continued to enchant testis biologists. Testis size and germ cell carrying capacity are intimately tied to Sertoli cell number and function. One critical Sertoli cell function is signaling from Sertoli cells to germ cells as part of regulation of the spermatogenic cycle. Sertoli cell signals can be endocrine or paracrine in nature. Here we review recent advances in understanding the interplay of Sertoli cell endocrine and paracrine signals that regulate germ cell state. Although these findings have long-term implications for treating male infertility, recent breakthroughs in Sertoli cell transplantation have more immediate implications. We summarize the surge of advances in Sertoli cell ablation and transplantation, both of which are wedded to a growing understanding of the unique Sertoli cell niche in the transitional zone of the testis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor A. Ruthig
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Sexual Medicine Lab, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Dolores J. Lamb
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Center for Reproductive Genomics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Dolores J. Lamb,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Gewiss RL, Law NC, Helsel AR, Shelden EA, Griswold MD. Two distinct Sertoli cell states are regulated via germ cell crosstalk. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1591-1602. [PMID: 34494084 PMCID: PMC8689118 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are a critical component of the testis environment for their role in maintaining seminiferous tubule structure, establishing the blood-testis barrier, and nourishing maturing germ cells in a specialized niche. This study sought to uncover how Sertoli cells are regulated in the testis environment via germ cell crosstalk in the mouse. We found two major clusters of Sertoli cells as defined by their transcriptomes in Stages VII-VIII of the seminiferous epithelium and a cluster for all other stages. Additionally, we examined transcriptomes of germ cell-deficient testes and found that these existed in a state independent of either of the germ cell-sufficient clusters. Together, we highlight two main transcriptional states of Sertoli cells in an unperturbed testis environment, and a germ cell-deficient environment does not allow normal Sertoli cell transcriptome cycling and results in a state unique from either of those seen in Sertoli cells from a germ cell-sufficient environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Gewiss
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.,Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Nathan C Law
- Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.,Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Aileen R Helsel
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.,Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Eric A Shelden
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.,Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Michael D Griswold
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.,Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Puberty is characterized by major changes in the anatomy and function of reproductive organs. Androgen activity is low before puberty, but during pubertal development, the testes resume the production of androgens. Major physiological changes occur in the testicular cell compartments in response to the increase in intratesticular testosterone concentrations and androgen receptor expression. Androgen activity also impacts on the internal and external genitalia. In target cells, androgens signal through a classical and a nonclassical pathway. This review addresses the most recent advances in the knowledge of the role of androgen signaling in postnatal male sexual development, with a special emphasis on human puberty.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo A Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, C1425EFD Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Histología, Embriología, Biología Celular y Genética, C1121ABG Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Low retinoic acid levels mediate regionalization of the Sertoli valve in the terminal segment of mouse seminiferous tubules. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1110. [PMID: 33441739 PMCID: PMC7806815 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79987-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammalian testes, undifferentiated spermatogonia (Aundiff) undergo differentiation in response to retinoic acid (RA), while their progenitor states are partially maintained by fibroblast growth factors (FGFs). Sertoli valve (SV) is a region located at the terminal end of seminiferous tubule (ST) adjacent to the rete testis (RT), where the high density of Aundiff is constitutively maintained with the absence of active spermatogenesis. However, the molecular and cellular characteristics of SV epithelia still remain unclear. In this study, we first identified the region-specific AKT phosphorylation in the SV Sertoli cells and demonstrated non-cell autonomous specialization of Sertoli cells in the SV region by performing a Sertoli cell ablation/replacement experiment. The expression of Fgf9 was detected in the RT epithelia, while the exogenous administration of FGF9 caused ectopic AKT phosphorylation in the Sertoli cells of convoluted ST. Furthermore, we revealed the SV region-specific expression of Cyp26a1, which encodes an RA-degrading enzyme, and demonstrated that the increased RA levels in the SV region disrupt its pool of Aundiff by inducing their differentiation. Taken together, RT-derived FGFs and low levels of RA signaling contribute to the non-cell-autonomous regionalization of the SV epithelia and its local maintenance of Aundiff in the SV region.
Collapse
|
16
|
Khanehzad M, Abbaszadeh R, Holakuyee M, Modarressi MH, Nourashrafeddin SM. FSH regulates RA signaling to commit spermatogonia into differentiation pathway and meiosis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:4. [PMID: 33407539 PMCID: PMC7789255 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00686-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis is a complex process that is controlled by interactions between germ cells and somatic cells. The commitment of undifferentiated spermatogonia to differentiating spermatogonia and normal spermatogenesis requires the action of gonadotropins. Additionally, numerous studies revealed the role of retinoic acid signaling in induction of germ cell differentiation and meiosis entry. MAIN TEXT Recent studies have shown that expression of several RA signaling molecules including Rdh10, Aldh1a2, Crabp1/2 are influenced by changes in gonadotropin levels. Components of signaling pathways that are regulated by FSH signaling such as GDNF, Sohlh1/2, c-Kit, DMRT, BMP4 and NRGs along with transcription factors that are important for proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonia are also affected by retinoic acid signaling. CONCLUSION According to all studies that demonstrate the interface between FSH and RA signaling, we suggest that RA may trigger spermatogonia differentiation and initiation of meiosis through regulation by FSH signaling in testis. Therefore, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that the correlation between FSH and RA signaling in spermatogenesis is highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Khanehzad
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roya Abbaszadeh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Seyed Mehdi Nourashrafeddin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA.
- School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Snyder JM, Zhong G, Hogarth C, Huang W, Topping T, LaFrance J, Palau L, Czuba LC, Griswold M, Ghiaur G, Isoherranen N. Knockout of Cyp26a1 and Cyp26b1 during postnatal life causes reduced lifespan, dermatitis, splenomegaly, and systemic inflammation in mice. FASEB J 2020; 34:15788-15804. [PMID: 33105029 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001734r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
All-trans-retinoic acid (atRA), the active metabolite of vitamin A, is an essential signaling molecule in all chordates. Global knockouts of the atRA clearing enzymes Cyp26a1 or Cyp26b1 are embryonic lethal. In adult rodents, inhibition of Cyp26a1 and Cyp26b1 increases atRA concentrations and signaling. However, postnatal knockout of Cyp26a1 does not cause a severe phenotype. We hypothesized that Cyp26b1 is the main atRA clearing Cyp in postnatal mammals. This hypothesis was tested by generating tamoxifen-inducible knockout mouse models of Cyp26b1 alone or with Cyp26a1. Both mouse models showed dermatitis, blepharitis, and splenomegaly. Histology showed infiltration of inflammatory cells including neutrophils and T lymphocytes into the skin and hyperkeratosis/hyperplasia of the nonglandular stomach. The mice lacking both Cyp26a1 and Cyp26b1 also had a reduced lifespan, failed to gain weight, and showed fat atrophy. There were significant changes in vitamin A homeostasis. Postnatal knockout of Cyp26b1 resulted in increased atRA concentrations in the skin while the postnatal knockout of both Cyp26a1 and Cyp26b1 resulted in increased atRA concentrations in the liver, serum, skin, spleen, and intestines. This study demonstrates the paramount role of Cyp26b1 in regulating retinoid homeostasis in postnatal life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Snyder
- Department of Comparative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Guo Zhong
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Cathryn Hogarth
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.,Department of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, School of Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Wodonga, VIC, Australia
| | - Weize Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Traci Topping
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Jeffrey LaFrance
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Laura Palau
- School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lindsay C Czuba
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michael Griswold
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Gabriel Ghiaur
- School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nina Isoherranen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Edelsztein NY, Rey RA. Regulation of meiosis initiation in the mammalian testis: novel aspects. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
19
|
Yan RG, Li BY, Yang QE. Function and transcriptomic dynamics of Sertoli cells during prospermatogonia development in mouse testis. Reprod Biol 2020; 20:525-535. [PMID: 32952085 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2020.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) arise from a subpopulation of prospermatogonia during neonatal testis development. Currently, molecular mechanisms directing the prospermatogonia to spermatogonial transition are not well understood. In the study, we found that reducing Sertoli cells number by Amh-cre mediated expression of diphtheria toxin (AC;DTA) in murine fetal testis caused defects in prospermatogonia fate decisions. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed that Sertoli cells loss occurred at embryonic day (E) 14.5. Prospermatogonia maintained mitotic arrest at E16.5 in control animals, in contrast, 13.4% of germ cells in AC;DTA testis reentered cell cycle and expressed gH2A.X and Sycp3, indicating the commitment to meiosis. After birth, the number of prospermatogonia resuming mitosis was significantly affected by Sertoli cell loss in AC;DTA animals. Lastly, we isolated primary Sertoli cells using a Sertoli cell specific GFP reporter line and showed dynamics of Sertoli cell transcriptomes at E12.5, E13.5, E16.5 and P1. By further analysis, we revealed unique gene expression patterns and potential candidate genes regulating Sertoli cell development and likely mediating interactions between Sertoli cells, prospermatogonia and other testicular cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rong-Ge Yan
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, QH, 810001, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Bin-Ye Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital, Xining, QH, 81001, China
| | - Qi-En Yang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, QH, 810001, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Ecological Genomics, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, QH, 810001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Yu K, Zhang Y, Zhang BL, Wu HY, Jiang WQ, Wang ST, Han DP, Liu YX, Lian ZX, Deng SL. In-vitro differentiation of early pig spermatogenic cells to haploid germ cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 25:507-518. [PMID: 31328782 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaz043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) self-renew and contribute genetic information to the next generation. Pig is wildly used as a model animal for understanding reproduction mechanisms of human being. Inducing directional differentiation of porcine SSCs may be an important strategy in exploring the mechanisms of spermatogenesis and developing better treatment methods for male infertility. Here, we established an in-vitro culture model for porcine small seminiferous tubule segments, to induce SSCs to differentiate into single-tail haploid spermatozoa. The culture model subsequently enabled spermatozoa to express the sperm-specific protein acrosin and oocytes to develop to blastocyst stage after round spermatid injection. The addition of retinoic acid (RA) to the differentiation media promoted the efficiency of haploid differentiation. RT-PCR analysis indicated that RA stimulated the expression of Stra8 but reduced the expression of NANOS2 in spermatogonia. Genes involved in post-meiotic development, transition protein 1 (Tnp1) and protamine 1 (Prm1) were upregulated in the presence of RA. The addition of an RA receptor (RAR) inhibitor, BMS439, showed that RA enhanced the expression of cAMP responsive-element binding protein through RAR and promoted the formation of round spermatids. We established an efficient culture system for in-vitro differentiation of pig SSCs. Our study represents a model for human testis disease and toxicology screening. Molecular regulators of SSC differentiation revealed in this study might provide a therapeutic strategy for male infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kun Yu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Haidian District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Department of Medicine, Panzhihua University, Sichuan, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Bao-Lu Zhang
- Marine Consulting Center of MNR, Oceanic Counseling Center, Ministry of Natural Resources of the People's Republic of China, Feng-tai District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Han-Yu Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Haidian District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wu-Qi Jiang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Haidian District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Su-Tian Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Xiangfang District, People's Republic of China
| | - De-Ping Han
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Haidian District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Xun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng-Xing Lian
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Haidian District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shou-Long Deng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Germ cell depletion in recipient testis has adverse effects on spermatogenesis in orthotopically transplanted testis pieces via retinoic acid insufficiency. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10796. [PMID: 32612133 PMCID: PMC7330030 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67595-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cell depletion in recipient testes is indispensable for successful transplantation of spermatogonial stem cells. However, we found that such treatment had an adverse effect on spermatogenesis of orthotopically transplanted donor testis tissues. In the donor tissue, the frequency of stimulated by retinoic acid (RA) 8 (STRA8) expression was reduced in germ cells, suggesting that RA signalling indispensable for spermatogenesis was attenuated in germ cell-depleted recipient testes. In this context, germ cell depletion diminished expression of testicular Aldh1a2, which is responsible for testicular RA synthesis, while Cyp26b1, which is responsible for testicular RA metabolism, was still expressed even after germ cell depletion, suggesting an alteration of the RA synthesis/metabolism ratio. These observations suggested that RA insufficiency was one of the causes of the defective donor spermatogenesis. Indeed, repetitive RA administrations significantly improved donor spermatogenesis to produce fertile offspring without any side effects. These findings may contribute to improving fertility preservation techniques for males, especially to prevent iatrogenic infertility induced by chemotherapy in prepubertal cancer patients.
Collapse
|
22
|
Spade DJ, Hall SJ, Wortzel JD, Reyes G, Boekelheide K. All-trans Retinoic Acid Disrupts Development in Ex Vivo Cultured Fetal Rat Testes. II: Modulation of Mono-(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate Toxicity. Toxicol Sci 2020; 168:149-159. [PMID: 30476341 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans are universally exposed to low levels of phthalate esters (phthalates), which are used to plasticize polyvinyl chloride. Phthalates exert adverse effects on the development of seminiferous cords in the fetal testis through unknown toxicity pathways. To investigate the hypothesis that phthalates alter seminiferous cord development by disrupting retinoic acid (RA) signaling in the fetal testis, gestational day 15 fetal rat testes were exposed for 1-3 days to 10-6 M all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) alone or in combination with 10-6-10-4 M mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) in ex vivo culture. As previously reported, exogenous ATRA reduced seminiferous cord number. This effect was attenuated in a concentration-dependent fashion by MEHP co-exposure. ATRA and MEHP-exposed testes were depleted of DDX4-positive germ cells but not Sertoli cells. MEHP alone enhanced the expression of the RA receptor target Rbp1 and the ovary development-associated genes Wnt4 and Nr0b1, and suppressed expression of the Leydig cell marker, Star, and the germ cell markers, Ddx4 and Pou5f1. In co-exposures, MEHP predominantly enhanced the gene expression effects of ATRA, but the Wnt4 and Nr0b1 concentration-responses were nonlinear. Similarly, ATRA increased the number of cells expressing the granulosa cell marker FOXL2 in testis cultures, but this induction was attenuated by addition of MEHP. These results indicate that MEHP can both enhance and inhibit actions of ATRA during fetal testis development and provide evidence that RA signaling is a target for phthalate toxicity in the fetal testis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Spade
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Susan J Hall
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Jeremy D Wortzel
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Gerardo Reyes
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912.,Division of Natural Sciences, College of Mount Saint Vincent, Riverdale, New York 10471
| | - Kim Boekelheide
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Huang G, Liu L, Wang H, Gou M, Gong P, Tian C, Deng W, Yang J, Zhou TT, Xu GL, Liu L. Tet1 Deficiency Leads to Premature Reproductive Aging by Reducing Spermatogonia Stem Cells and Germ Cell Differentiation. iScience 2020; 23:100908. [PMID: 32114381 PMCID: PMC7049665 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.100908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ten-eleven translocation (Tet) enzymes are involved in DNA demethylation, important in regulating embryo development, stem cell pluripotency and tumorigenesis. Alterations of DNA methylation with age have been shown in various somatic cell types. We investigated whether Tet1 and Tet2 regulate aging. We showed that Tet1-deficient mice undergo a progressive reduction of spermatogonia stem cells and spermatogenesis and thus accelerated infertility with age. Tet1 deficiency decreases 5hmC levels in spermatogonia and downregulates a subset of genes important for cell cycle, germ cell differentiation, meiosis and reproduction, such as Ccna1 and Spo11, resulting in premature reproductive aging. Moreover, Tet1 and 5hmC both regulate signaling pathways key for stem cell development, including Wnt and PI3K-Akt, autophagy and stress response genes. In contrast, effect of Tet2 deficiency on male reproductive aging is minor. Hence, Tet1 maintains spermatogonia stem cells with age, revealing an important role of Tet1 in regulating stem cell aging. Tet1 regulates stem cell aging and differentiation Tet1 plays an important role in maintaining spermatogonial stem cells Loss of Tet1 results in exhaustion of spermatogonia and premature reproductive aging Effect of Tet2 deficiency on reproductive aging in males is minor
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guian Huang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Linlin Liu
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Huasong Wang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Mo Gou
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Peng Gong
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Chenglei Tian
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Wei Deng
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Jiao Yang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Tian-Tian Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Guo-Liang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Isoherranen N, Zhong G. Biochemical and physiological importance of the CYP26 retinoic acid hydroxylases. Pharmacol Ther 2019; 204:107400. [PMID: 31419517 PMCID: PMC6881548 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2019.107400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The Cytochrome P450 (CYP) family 26 enzymes contribute to retinoic acid (RA) metabolism and homeostasis in humans, mammals and other chordates. The three CYP26 family enzymes, CYP26A1, CYP26B1 and CYP26C1 have all been shown to metabolize all-trans-retinoic acid (atRA) it's 9-cisRA and 13-cisRA isomers and primary metabolites 4-OH-RA and 4-oxo-RA with high efficiency. While no crystal structures of CYP26 enzymes are available, the binding of various ligands has been extensively explored via homology modeling. All three CYP26 enzymes are inducible by treatment with atRA in various prenatal and postnatal tissues and cell types. However, current literature shows that in addition to regulation by atRA, CYP26 enzyme expression is also regulated by other endogenous processes and inflammatory cytokines. In humans and in animal models the expression patterns of CYP26 enzymes have been shown to be tissue and cell type specific, and the expression of the CYP26 enzymes is believed to regulate the formation of critical atRA concentration gradients in various tissue types. Yet, very little data exists on direct disease associations of altered CYP26 expression or activity. Nevertheless, data is emerging describing a variety of human genetic variations in the CYP26 enzymes that are associated with different pathologies. Interestingly, some of these genetic variants result in increased activity of the CYP26 enzymes potentially leading to complex gene-environment interactions due to variability in dietary intake of retinoids. This review highlights the current knowledge of structure-function of CYP26 enzymes and focuses on their role in human retinoid metabolism in different tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nina Isoherranen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Guo Zhong
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Edelsztein NY, Kashimada K, Schteingart HF, Rey RA. CYP26B1 declines postnatally in Sertoli cells independently of androgen action in the mouse testis. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 87:66-77. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Y. Edelsztein
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de EndocrinologíaHospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Kenichi Kashimada
- Department of Pediatrics and Developmental BiologyTokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) Tokyo Japan
| | - Helena F. Schteingart
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de EndocrinologíaHospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Rodolfo A. Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de EndocrinologíaHospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez Buenos Aires Argentina
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Histología, Embriología y Genética, Facultad de MedicinaUniversidad de Buenos Aires Buenos Aires Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Gewiss R, Topping T, Griswold MD. Cycles, waves, and pulses: Retinoic acid and the organization of spermatogenesis. Andrology 2019; 8:892-897. [PMID: 31670467 PMCID: PMC7496180 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background Spermatogenesis in mammals is organized in a manner that maximizes sperm production. The central aspect of this organization is the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium that is characterized by an asynchronous repeating series of germ cell associations. These cell associations are the result of a fixed point of entry into the cycle at regular short time intervals and the longer time required for cells to fully differentiate and exit the cycle. Objective This review will examine the current information on the action and metabolism of retinoic acid in the testis, the interaction of retinoic acid (RA) with the cycle and the spermatogenic wave, and the mechanisms that can lead to synchronous spermatogenesis. Finally, the unique applications of synchronous spermatogenesis to the study of the cycle and the mass isolation of specific germ cell populations are described. Materials and methods Retinoic acid metabolism and spermatogonial differentiation have been examined by gene deletions, immunocytochemistry, chemical inhibitors, and mass spectrometry. Results, discussion, and conclusion Both the Sertoli cells and the germ cells have the capacity to synthesize retinoic acid from retinol and in the mouse the entry into the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium, and the subsequent conversion of undifferentiated spermatogonia into differentiating spermatogonia is governed by a peak of RA synthesis occurring at stages VIII‐IX of the cycle. Normal asynchronous spermatogenesis can be modified by altering RA levels, and as a result the entire testis will consist of a few closely related stages of the cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Gewiss
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Traci Topping
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Michael D Griswold
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
La HM, Hobbs RM. Mechanisms regulating mammalian spermatogenesis and fertility recovery following germ cell depletion. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:4071-4102. [PMID: 31254043 PMCID: PMC11105665 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03201-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a highly complex multi-step process sustained by a population of mitotic germ cells with self-renewal potential known as spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). The maintenance and regulation of SSC function are strictly dependent on a supportive niche that is composed of multiple cell types. A detailed appreciation of the molecular mechanisms underpinning SSC activity and fate is of fundamental importance for spermatogenesis and male fertility. However, different models of SSC identity and spermatogonial hierarchy have been proposed and recent studies indicate that cell populations supporting steady-state germline maintenance and regeneration following damage are distinct. Importantly, dynamic changes in niche properties may underlie the fate plasticity of spermatogonia evident during testis regeneration. While formation of spermatogenic colonies in germ-cell-depleted testis upon transplantation is a standard assay for SSCs, differentiation-primed spermatogonial fractions have transplantation potential and this assay provides readout of regenerative rather than steady-state stem cell capacity. The characterisation of spermatogonial populations with regenerative capacity is essential for the development of clinical applications aimed at restoring fertility in individuals following germline depletion by genotoxic treatments. This review will discuss regulatory mechanisms of SSCs in homeostatic and regenerative testis and the conservation of these mechanisms between rodent models and man.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hue M La
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Robin M Hobbs
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Zhong G, Hogarth C, Snyder JM, Palau L, Topping T, Huang W, Czuba LC, LaFrance J, Ghiaur G, Isoherranen N. The retinoic acid hydroxylase Cyp26a1 has minor effects on postnatal vitamin A homeostasis, but is required for exogenous atRA clearance. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:11166-11179. [PMID: 31167781 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.009023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 06/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The all-trans-retinoic acid (atRA) hydroxylase Cyp26a1 is essential for embryonic development and may play a key role in regulating atRA clearance also in adults. We hypothesized that loss of Cyp26a1 activity via inducible knockout in juvenile or adult mice would result in decreased atRA clearance and increased tissue atRA concentrations and atRA-related adverse effects. To test these hypotheses, Cyp26a1 was knocked out in juvenile and adult male and female Cyp26a1 floxed mice using standard Cre-Lox technology and tamoxifen injections. Biochemical and histological methods were used to study the effects of global Cyp26a1 knockout. The Cyp26a1 knockout did not result in consistent histopathological changes in any major organs. Cyp26a1 -/- mice gained weight normally and exhibited no adverse phenotypes for up to 1 year after loss of Cyp26a1 expression. Similarly, atRA concentrations were not increased in the liver, testes, spleen, or serum of these mice, and the Cyp26a1 knockout did not cause compensatory induction of lecithin:retinol acetyltransferase (Lrat) or retinol dehydrogenase 11 (Rdh11) mRNA or a decrease in aldehyde dehydrogenase 1a1 (Aldh1a1) mRNA in the liver compared with tamoxifen-treated controls. However, the Cyp26a1 -/- mice showed increased bone marrow cellularity and decreased frequency of erythroid progenitor cells in the bone marrow consistent with a retinoid-induced myeloid skewing of hematopoiesis. In addition, the Cyp26a1 knockout decreased clearance of exogenous atRA by 70% and increased atRA half-life 6-fold. These findings demonstrate that despite lacking a major impact on endogenous atRA signaling, Cyp26a1 critically contributes as a barrier for exogenous atRA exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guo Zhong
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
| | - Cathryn Hogarth
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164
| | - Jessica M Snyder
- Department of Comparative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
| | - Laura Palau
- School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231
| | - Traci Topping
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164
| | - Weize Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
| | - Lindsay C Czuba
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
| | - Jeffrey LaFrance
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
| | - Gabriel Ghiaur
- School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231
| | - Nina Isoherranen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Velte EK, Niedenberger BA, Serra ND, Singh A, Roa-DeLaCruz L, Hermann BP, Geyer CB. Differential RA responsiveness directs formation of functionally distinct spermatogonial populations at the initiation of spermatogenesis in the mouse. Development 2019; 146:dev.173088. [PMID: 31023878 DOI: 10.1242/dev.173088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In the mammalian testis, sustained spermatogenesis relies on spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs); their progeny either remain as stem cells (self-renewal) or proliferate and differentiate to enter meiosis in response to retinoic acid (RA). Here, we sought to uncover elusive mechanisms regulating a key switch fundamental to spermatogonial fate: the capacity of spermatogonia to respond to RA. Using the developing mouse testis as a model, we found that spermatogonia and precursor prospermatogonia exhibit a heterogeneous capacity to respond to RA with at least two underlying causes. First, progenitor spermatogonia are prevented from responding to RA by catabolic activity of cytochrome P450 family 26 enzymes. Second, a smaller subset of undifferentiated spermatogonia enriched for SSCs exhibit catabolism-independent RA insensitivity. Moreover, for the first time, we observed that precursor prospermatogonia are heterogeneous and comprise subpopulations that exhibit the same differential RA responsiveness found in neonatal spermatogonia. We propose a novel model by which mammalian prospermatogonial and spermatogonial fates are regulated by their intrinsic capacity to respond (or not) to the differentiation signal provided by RA before, and concurrent with, the initiation of spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen K Velte
- Departments of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Bryan A Niedenberger
- Departments of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Nicholas D Serra
- Departments of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Anukriti Singh
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Lorena Roa-DeLaCruz
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Brian P Hermann
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Christopher B Geyer
- Departments of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA .,East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Parekh PA, Garcia TX, Waheeb R, Jain V, Gandhi P, Meistrich ML, Shetty G, Hofmann MC. Undifferentiated spermatogonia regulate Cyp26b1 expression through NOTCH signaling and drive germ cell differentiation. FASEB J 2019; 33:8423-8435. [PMID: 30991836 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201802361r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Cytochrome P450 family 26 subfamily B member 1 (CYP26B1) regulates the concentration of all-trans retinoic acid (RA) and plays a key role in germ cell differentiation by controlling local distribution of RA. The mechanisms regulating Cyp26b1 expression in postnatal Sertoli cells, the main components of the stem cell niche, are so far unknown. During gonad development, expression of Cyp26b1 is maintained by Steroidogenic Factor 1 (SF-1) and Sex-Determining Region Y Box-9 (SOX9), which ensure that RA is degraded and germ cell differentiation is blocked. Here, we show that the NOTCH target Hairy/Enhancer-of-Split Related with YRPW Motif 1 (HEY1), a transcriptional repressor, regulates germ cell differentiation via direct binding to the Cyp26b1 promoter and thus inhibits its expression in Sertoli cells. Further, using in vivo germ cell ablation, we demonstrate that undifferentiated type A spermatogonia are the cells that activate NOTCH signaling in Sertoli cells through their expression of the NOTCH ligand JAGGED-1 (JAG1) at stage VIII of the seminiferous epithelium cycle, therefore mediating germ cell differentiation by a ligand concentration-dependent process. These data therefore provide more insights into the mechanisms of germ cell differentiation after birth and potentially explain the spatiotemporal RA pulses driving the transition between undifferentiated to differentiating spermatogonia.-Parekh, P. A., Garcia, T. X., Waheeb, R., Jain, V., Gandhi, P., Meistrich, M. L., Shetty, G., Hofmann, M.-C. Undifferentiated spermatogonia regulate Cyp26b1 expression through NOTCH signaling and drive germ cell differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parag A Parekh
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Thomas X Garcia
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Reham Waheeb
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Theriogenology, University of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Vivek Jain
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Pooja Gandhi
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Marvin L Meistrich
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Gunapala Shetty
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Marie-Claude Hofmann
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Kesselring T, Viquerat S, IJsseldijk L, Langeheine M, Wohlsein P, Gröne A, Bergmann M, Siebert U, Brehm R. Testicular morphology and spermatogenesis in harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena). Theriogenology 2019; 126:177-186. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
32
|
Spade DJ, Dere E, Hall SJ, Schorl C, Freiman RN, Boekelheide K. All-Trans Retinoic Acid Disrupts Development in Ex Vivo Cultured Fetal Rat Testes. I: Altered Seminiferous Cord Maturation and Testicular Cell Fate. Toxicol Sci 2019; 167:546-558. [PMID: 30329139 PMCID: PMC6358251 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to excess retinoic acid (RA) disrupts the development of the mammalian testicular seminiferous cord. However, the molecular events surrounding RA-driven loss of cord structure have not previously been examined. To investigate the mechanisms associated with this adverse developmental effect, fetal rat testes were isolated on gestational day 15, after testis determination and the initiation of cord development, and cultured in media containing all-trans RA (ATRA; 10-8 to 10-6 M) or vehicle for 3 days. ATRA exposure resulted in a concentration-dependent decrease in the number of seminiferous cords per testis section and number of germ cells, assessed by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Following 1 day of culture, genome-wide expression profiling by microarray demonstrated that ATRA exposure altered biological processes related to retinoid metabolism and gonadal sex determination. Real-time RT-PCR analysis confirmed that ATRA enhanced the expression of the key ovarian development gene Wnt4 and the antitestis gene Nr0b1 in a concentration-dependent manner. After 3 days of culture, ATRA-treated testes contained both immunohistochemically DMRT1-positive and FOXL2-positive somatic cells, providing evidence of disrupted testicular cell fate maintenance following ATRA exposure. We conclude that exogenous RA disrupts seminiferous cord development in ex vivo cultured fetal rat testes, resulting in a reduction in seminiferous cord number, and interferes with maintenance of somatic cell fate by enhancing expression of factors that promote ovarian development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Spade
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Edward Dere
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
- Division of Urology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island 02903
| | - Susan J Hall
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Christoph Schorl
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Richard N Freiman
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Kim Boekelheide
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Oocyte stage-specific effects of MTOR determine granulosa cell fate and oocyte quality in mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E5326-E5333. [PMID: 29784807 PMCID: PMC6003357 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1800352115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
MTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin), an integrator of pathways important for cellular metabolism, proliferation, and differentiation, is expressed at all stages of oocyte development. Primordial oocytes constitute a nonproliferating, nongrowing reserve of potential eggs maintained for the entire reproductive lifespan of mammalian females. Using conditional knockouts, we determined the role of MTOR in both primordial and growing oocytes. MTOR-dependent pathways in primordial oocytes are not needed to sustain the viability of the primordial oocyte pool or their recruitment into the cohort of growing oocytes but are essential later for maintenance of oocyte genomic integrity, sustaining ovarian follicular development, and fertility. In growing oocytes, MTOR-dependent pathways are required for processes that promote completion of meiosis and enable embryonic development. MTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) is a widely recognized integrator of signals and pathways key for cellular metabolism, proliferation, and differentiation. Here we show that conditional knockout (cKO) of Mtor in either primordial or growing oocytes caused infertility but differentially affected oocyte quality, granulosa cell fate, and follicular development. cKO of Mtor in nongrowing primordial oocytes caused defective follicular development leading to progressive degeneration of oocytes and loss of granulosa cell identity coincident with the acquisition of immature Sertoli cell-like characteristics. Although Mtor was deleted at the primordial oocyte stage, DNA damage accumulated in oocytes during their later growth, and there was a marked alteration of the transcriptome in the few oocytes that achieved the fully grown stage. Although oocyte quality and fertility were also compromised when Mtor was deleted after oocytes had begun to grow, these occurred without overtly affecting folliculogenesis or the oocyte transcriptome. Nevertheless, there was a significant change in a cohort of proteins in mature oocytes. In particular, down-regulation of PRC1 (protein regulator of cytokinesis 1) impaired completion of the first meiotic division. Therefore, MTOR-dependent pathways in primordial or growing oocytes differentially affected downstream processes including follicular development, sex-specific identity of early granulosa cells, maintenance of oocyte genome integrity, oocyte gene expression, meiosis, and preimplantation developmental competence.
Collapse
|
34
|
Masaki K, Sakai M, Kuroki S, Jo JI, Hoshina K, Fujimori Y, Oka K, Amano T, Yamanaka T, Tachibana M, Tabata Y, Shiozawa T, Ishizuka O, Hochi S, Takashima S. FGF2 Has Distinct Molecular Functions from GDNF in the Mouse Germline Niche. Stem Cell Reports 2018; 10:1782-1792. [PMID: 29681540 PMCID: PMC5989648 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2018.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2017] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Both glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) are bona fide self-renewal factors for spermatogonial stem cells, whereas retinoic acid (RA) induces spermatogonial differentiation. In this study, we investigated the functional differences between FGF2 and GDNF in the germline niche by providing these factors using a drug delivery system in vivo. Although both factors expanded the GFRA1+ subset of undifferentiated spermatogonia, the FGF2-expanded subset expressed RARG, which is indispensable for proper differentiation, 1.9-fold more frequently than the GDNF-expanded subset, demonstrating that FGF2 expands a differentiation-prone subset in the testis. Moreover, FGF2 acted on the germline niche to suppress RA metabolism and GDNF production, suggesting that FGF2 modifies germline niche functions to be more appropriate for spermatogonial differentiation. These results suggest that FGF2 contributes to induction of differentiation rather than maintenance of undifferentiated spermatogonia, indicating reconsideration of the role of FGF2 in the germline niche.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaito Masaki
- Department of Textile Science and Technology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Technology, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda 386-8567, Japan
| | - Mizuki Sakai
- Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Ueda 386-8567, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Kuroki
- Division of Epigenome Dynamics, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8501, Japan
| | - Jun-Ichiro Jo
- Laboratory of Biomaterials, Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Kazuo Hoshina
- Nagano Animal Industry Experiment Station, Shiojiri 399-0711, Japan
| | - Yuki Fujimori
- Nagano Animal Industry Experiment Station, Shiojiri 399-0711, Japan
| | - Kenji Oka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan
| | - Toshiyasu Amano
- Department of Urology, Nagano Red Cross Hospital, Nagano 380-8582, Japan
| | - Takahiro Yamanaka
- Department of Textile Science and Technology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Technology, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda 386-8567, Japan
| | - Makoto Tachibana
- Division of Epigenome Dynamics, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8501, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Tabata
- Laboratory of Biomaterials, Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Tanri Shiozawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan
| | - Osamu Ishizuka
- Department of Urology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan
| | - Shinichi Hochi
- Department of Textile Science and Technology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Technology, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda 386-8567, Japan; Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Ueda 386-8567, Japan
| | - Seiji Takashima
- Department of Textile Science and Technology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Technology, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda 386-8567, Japan; Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Ueda 386-8567, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Sakai M, Masaki K, Aiba S, Tone M, Takashima S. Expression dynamics of self-renewal factors for spermatogonial stem cells in the mouse testis. J Reprod Dev 2018; 64:267-275. [PMID: 29657241 PMCID: PMC6021615 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2018-015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) are bona fide self-renewal factors for spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Although GDNF is indispensable for the maintenance of SSCs, the role of FGF2 in the testis remains to be elucidated. To clarify this, the expression dynamics and regulatory mechanisms of Fgf2 and Gdnf in the mouse testes were analyzed. It is well known that Sertoli cells express Gdnf, and its receptor is expressed in a subset of undifferentiated spermatogonia, including SSCs. However, we found that Fgf2 was mainly expressed in the germ cells and its receptors were expressed not only in the cultured spermatogonial cell line, but also in testicular somatic cells. Aging, hypophysectomy, retinoic acid treatment, and testicular injury induced distinct Fgf2 and Gdnf expression dynamics, suggesting a difference in the expression mechanism of Fgf2 and Gdnf in the testis. Such differences might cause a dynamic fluctuation of Gdnf/Fgf2 ratio depending on the intrinsic/extrinsic cues. Considering that FGF2-cultured spermatogonia exhibit more differentiated phenotype than those cultured with GDNF, FGF2 might play a role distinct from that of GDNF in the testis, despite the fact that both factors are self-renewal factor for SSC in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mizuki Sakai
- Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Ueda 386-8567, Japan
| | - Kaito Masaki
- Department of Textile Science and Technology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Ueda 386-8567, Japan
| | - Shota Aiba
- Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Ueda 386-8567, Japan
| | - Masaaki Tone
- Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Ueda 386-8567, Japan
| | - Seiji Takashima
- Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Ueda 386-8567, Japan.,Department of Textile Science and Technology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Ueda 386-8567, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Testicular Architecture Is Critical for Mediation of Retinoic Acid Responsiveness by Undifferentiated Spermatogonial Subtypes in the Mouse. Stem Cell Reports 2018; 10:538-552. [PMID: 29398482 PMCID: PMC5830974 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis requires retinoic acid (RA) induction of the undifferentiated to differentiating transition in transit amplifying (TA) progenitor spermatogonia, whereas continuity of the spermatogenic lineage relies on the RA response being suppressed in spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Here, we discovered that, in mouse testes, both spermatogonial populations possess intrinsic RA-response machinery and exhibit hallmarks of the differentiating transition following direct exposure to RA, including loss of SSC regenerative capacity. We determined that SSCs are only resistant to RA-driven differentiation when situated in the normal topological organization of the testis. Furthermore, we show that the soma is instrumental in “priming” TA progenitors for RA-induced differentiation through elevated RA receptor expression. Collectively, these findings indicate that SSCs and TA progenitor spermatogonia inhabit disparate niche microenvironments within seminiferous tubules that are critical for mediating extrinsic cues that drive fate decisions. Contrary to previous dogma, SSCs do express RARγ, as well as other RAR/RXR variants Following direct exposure, SSCs exhibit an RA signaling response SSCs are protected from RA by the niche microenvironment in the testis Signals from the soma prime progenitors for RA-driven differentiation
Collapse
|
37
|
Ruthig VA, Nielsen T, Riel JM, Yamauchi Y, Ortega EA, Salvador Q, Ward MA. Testicular abnormalities in mice with Y chromosome deficiencies. Biol Reprod 2017; 96:694-706. [PMID: 28339606 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.144006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
We recently investigated mice with Y chromosome gene contribution limited to two, one, or no Y chromosome genes in respect to their ability to produce haploid round spermatids and live offspring following round spermatid injection. Here we explored the normalcy of germ cells and Sertoli cells within seminiferous tubules, and the interstitial tissue of the testis in these mice. We performed quantitative analysis of spermatogenesis and interstitial tissue on Periodic acid-Schiff and hematoxylin-stained mouse testis sections. The seminiferous epithelium of mice with limited Y gene contribution contained various cellular abnormalities, the total number of which was higher than in the males with an intact Y chromosome. The distribution of specific abnormality types varied among tested genotypes. The males with limited Y genes also had an increased population of testicular macrophages and internal vasculature structures. The data indicate that Y chromosome gene deficiencies in mice are associated with cellular abnormalities of the seminiferous epithelium and some changes within the testicular interstitium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor A Ruthig
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Torbjoern Nielsen
- Center for Advanced Research in Sleep Medicine, CIUSSS-NÎM - Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal, Montréal, Que., Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Que., Canada H3T 1J4
| | - Jonathan M Riel
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Yasuhiro Yamauchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Fukuoka University Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Egle A Ortega
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | | | - Monika A Ward
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Stevison F, Hogarth C, Tripathy S, Kent T, Isoherranen N. Inhibition of the all-trans Retinoic Acid ( atRA) Hydroxylases CYP26A1 and CYP26B1 Results in Dynamic, Tissue-Specific Changes in Endogenous atRA Signaling. Drug Metab Dispos 2017; 45:846-854. [PMID: 28446509 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.117.075341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
All-trans retinoic acid (atRA), the active metabolite of vitamin A, is a ligand for several nuclear receptors and acts as a critical regulator of many physiologic processes. The cytochrome P450 family 26 (CYP26) enzymes are responsible for atRA clearance, and are potential drug targets to increase concentrations of endogenous atRA in a tissue-specific manner. Talarozole is a potent inhibitor of CYP26A1 and CYP26B1, and has shown some success in clinical trials. However, it is not known what magnitude of change is needed in tissue atRA concentrations to promote atRA signaling changes. The aim of this study was to quantify the increase in endogenous atRA concentrations necessary to alter atRA signaling in target organs, and to establish the relationship between CYP26 inhibition and altered atRA concentrations in tissues. Following a single 2.5-mg/kg dose of talarozole to mice, atRA concentrations increased up to 5.7-, 2.7-, and 2.5-fold in serum, liver, and testis, respectively, resulting in induction of Cyp26a1 in the liver and testis and Rar β and Pgc 1β in liver. The increase in atRA concentrations was well predicted from talarozole pharmacokinetics and in vitro data of CYP26 inhibition. After multiple doses of talarozole, a significant increase in atRA concentrations was observed in serum but not in liver or testis. This lack of increase in atRA concentrations correlated with an increase in CYP26A1 expression in the liver. The increased atRA concentrations in serum without a change in liver suggest that CYP26B1 in extrahepatic sites plays a key role in regulating systemic atRA exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Faith Stevison
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington (F.S., S.T., N.I.); and School of Molecular Biosciences and the Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington (C.H., T.K.)
| | - Cathryn Hogarth
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington (F.S., S.T., N.I.); and School of Molecular Biosciences and the Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington (C.H., T.K.)
| | - Sasmita Tripathy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington (F.S., S.T., N.I.); and School of Molecular Biosciences and the Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington (C.H., T.K.)
| | - Travis Kent
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington (F.S., S.T., N.I.); and School of Molecular Biosciences and the Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington (C.H., T.K.)
| | - Nina Isoherranen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington (F.S., S.T., N.I.); and School of Molecular Biosciences and the Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington (C.H., T.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Teletin M, Vernet N, Ghyselinck NB, Mark M. Roles of Retinoic Acid in Germ Cell Differentiation. Curr Top Dev Biol 2017; 125:191-225. [PMID: 28527572 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2016.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The modalities of gametogenesis differ markedly between sexes. Female are born with a definitive reserve of oocytes whose size is crucial to ensure fertility. Male fertility, in contrast, relies on a tightly regulated balance between germ cell self-renewal and differentiation, which operates throughout life, according to recurring spatial and temporal patterns. Genetic and pharmacological studies conducted in the mouse and discussed in this review have revealed that all-trans retinoic acid and its nuclear receptors are major players of gametogenesis and are instrumental to fertility in both sexes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marius Teletin
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Illkirch, France; Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Paris, France; Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), Strasbourg, France; Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg (HUS), Strasbourg, France
| | - Nadège Vernet
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Illkirch, France; Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Paris, France; Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), Strasbourg, France
| | - Norbert B Ghyselinck
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Illkirch, France; Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Paris, France; Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), Strasbourg, France
| | - Manuel Mark
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Illkirch, France; Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Paris, France; Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), Strasbourg, France; Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg (HUS), Strasbourg, France.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Kasimanickam VR. Expression of retinoic acid-metabolizing enzymes, ALDH1A1, ALDH1A2, ALDH1A3, CYP26A1, CYP26B1 and CYP26C1 in canine testis during post-natal development. Reprod Domest Anim 2016; 51:901-909. [PMID: 27569851 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis involves highly regulated temporal and spatial dynamics, carefully controlled by several signalling processes. Retinoic acid (RA) signalling could have a critical role in spermatogenesis by promoting spermatogonia differentiation, adhesion of germ cells to Sertoli cells, and release of mature spermatids. An optimal testicular RA concentration is maintained by retinaldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs), which oxidize RA precursors to produce RA, whereas the CYP26 class of enzymes catabolizes (oxidize) RA into inactive metabolites. The objective was to elucidate gene expression of these RA-metabolizing enzymes (ALDH1A1, ALDH1A2, ALDH1A3, CYP26A1, CYP26B1 and CYP26C1) and their protein presence in testes of young, peripubertal and adult dogs. Genes encoding RA-synthesizing isozymes ALDH1A1, ALDH1A2 and ALDH1A3 and RA-catabolizing isomers CYP26A1, CYP26B1 and CYP26C1 were expressed in testis at varying levels during testicular development from birth to adulthood in dogs. Based on detailed analyses of mRNA expression patterns, ALDH1A2 was regarded as a primary RA-synthesizing enzyme and CYP26B1 as a critical RA-hydrolysing enzyme; presumably, these genes have vital roles in maintaining RA homeostasis, which is imperative to spermatogenesis and other testicular functions in post-natal canine testis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V R Kasimanickam
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.,Center for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Diaz P, Huang W, Keyari CM, Buttrick B, Price L, Guilloteau N, Tripathy S, Sperandio VG, Fronczek FR, Astruc-Diaz F, Isoherranen N. Development and Characterization of Novel and Selective Inhibitors of Cytochrome P450 CYP26A1, the Human Liver Retinoic Acid Hydroxylase. J Med Chem 2016; 59:2579-95. [PMID: 26918322 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b01780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cytochrome P450 CYP26 enzymes are responsible for all-trans-retinoic acid (atRA) clearance. Inhibition of CYP26 enzymes will increase endogenous atRA concentrations and is an attractive therapeutic target. However, the selectivity and potency of the existing atRA metabolism inhibitors toward CYP26A1 and CYP26B1 is unknown, and no selective CYP26A1 or CYP26B1 inhibitors have been developed. Here the synthesis and potent inhibitory activity of the first CYP26A1 selective inhibitors is reported. A series of nonazole CYP26A1 selective inhibitors was identified with low nM potency. The lead compound 3-{4-[2-(5,5,8,8-tetramethyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydronaphthalen-2-yl)-1,3-dioxolan-2-yl] phenyl}4-propanoic acid (24) had 43-fold selectivity toward CYP26A1 with an IC50 of 340 nM. Compound 24 and its two structural analogues also inhibited atRA metabolism in HepG2 cells, resulting in increased potency of atRA toward RAR activation. The identified compounds have potential to become novel treatments aiming to elevate endogenous atRA concentrations and may be useful as cotreatment with atRA to combat therapy resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Diaz
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Montana , 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, Montana 59812, United States.,DermaXon LLC , 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, Montana 59812, United States
| | - Weize Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington , 1959 NE Pacific Street, Health Sciences Building, Box 357610, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| | - Charles M Keyari
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Montana , 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, Montana 59812, United States
| | - Brian Buttrick
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington , 1959 NE Pacific Street, Health Sciences Building, Box 357610, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| | - Lauren Price
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington , 1959 NE Pacific Street, Health Sciences Building, Box 357610, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| | | | - Sasmita Tripathy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington , 1959 NE Pacific Street, Health Sciences Building, Box 357610, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| | - Vanessa G Sperandio
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Montana , 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, Montana 59812, United States
| | - Frank R Fronczek
- Chemistry Department, Louisiana State University , 232 Choppin Hall, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
| | - Fanny Astruc-Diaz
- DermaXon LLC , 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, Montana 59812, United States
| | - Nina Isoherranen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington , 1959 NE Pacific Street, Health Sciences Building, Box 357610, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis requires a stem cell pool, a period of amplification of cell numbers, the completion of reduction division to haploid cells (meiosis), and the morphological transformation of the haploid cells into spermatozoa (spermiogenesis). The net result of these processes is the production of massive numbers of spermatozoa over the reproductive lifetime of the animal. One study that utilized homogenization-resistant spermatids as the standard determined that human daily sperm production (dsp) was at 45 million per day per testis (60). For each human that means ∼1,000 sperm are produced per second. A key to this level of gamete production is the organization and architecture of the mammalian testes that results in continuous sperm production. The seemingly complex repetitious relationship of cells termed the "cycle of the seminiferous epithelium" is driven by the continuous commitment of undifferentiated spermatogonia to meiosis and the period of time required to form spermatozoa. This commitment termed the A to A1 transition requires the action of retinoic acid (RA) on the undifferentiated spermatogonia or prospermatogonia. In stages VII to IX of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium, Sertoli cells and germ cells are influenced by pulses of RA. These pulses of RA move along the seminiferous tubules coincident with the spermatogenic wave, presumably undergoing constant synthesis and degradation. The RA pulse then serves as a trigger to commit undifferentiated progenitor cells to the rigidly timed pathway into meiosis and spermatid differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Griswold
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a complex and highly ordered process by which male germ cells proceed through a series of differentiation steps to produce haploid flagellated spermatozoa. Underlying this process is a pool of adult stem cells, the spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), which commence the spermatogenic lineage by undertaking a differentiation fate decision to become progenitor spermatogonia. Subsequently, progenitors acquire a differentiating spermatogonia phenotype and undergo a series of amplifying mitoses while becoming competent to enter meiosis. After spermatocytes complete meiosis, post-meiotic spermatids must then undergo a remarkable transformation from small round spermatids to a flagellated spermatozoa with extremely compacted nuclei. This chapter reviews the current literature pertaining to spermatogonial differentiation with an emphasis on the mechanisms controlling stem cell fate decisions and early differentiation events in the life of a spermatogonium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Mecklenburg
- Department of Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Brian P Hermann
- Department of Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Busada JT, Geyer CB. The Role of Retinoic Acid (RA) in Spermatogonial Differentiation. Biol Reprod 2015; 94:10. [PMID: 26559678 PMCID: PMC4809555 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.135145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA) directs the sequential, but distinct, programs of spermatogonial differentiation and meiotic differentiation that are both essential for the generation of functional spermatozoa. These processes are functionally and temporally decoupled, as they occur in distinct cell types that arise over a week apart, both in the neonatal and adult testis. However, our understanding is limited in terms of what cellular and molecular changes occur downstream of RA exposure that prepare differentiating spermatogonia for meiotic initiation. In this review, we describe the process of spermatogonial differentiation and summarize the current state of knowledge regarding RA signaling in spermatogonia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan T Busada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina
| | - Christopher B Geyer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|