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Xiao Z, Liang J, Huang R, Chen D, Mei J, Deng J, Wang Z, Li L, Li Z, Xia H, Yang Y, Huang Y. Inhibition of miR-143-3p Restores Blood-Testis Barrier Function and Ameliorates Sertoli Cell Senescence. Cells 2024; 13:313. [PMID: 38391926 PMCID: PMC10887369 DOI: 10.3390/cells13040313] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to the increasing trend of delayed childbirth, the age-related decline in male reproductive function has become a widely recognized issue. Sertoli cells (SCs) play a vital role in creating the necessary microenvironment for spermatogenesis in the testis. However, the mechanism underlying Sertoli cell aging is still unclear. In this study, senescent Sertoli cells showed a substantial upregulation of miR-143-3p expression. miR-143-3p was found to limit Sertoli cell proliferation, promote cellular senescence, and cause blood-testis barrier (BTB) dysfunction by targeting ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2 E3 (UBE2E3). Additionally, the TGF-β receptor inhibitor SB431542 showed potential in alleviating age-related BTB dysfunction, rescuing testicular atrophy, and reversing the reduction in germ cell numbers by negatively regulating miR-143-3p. These findings clarified the regulatory pathways underlying Sertoli cell senescence and suggested a promising therapeutic approach to restore BTB function, alleviate Sertoli cell senescence, and improve reproductive outcomes for individuals facing fertility challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyan Xiao
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Jinlian Liang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Rufei Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Derong Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Jiaxin Mei
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Jingxian Deng
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China;
| | - Zhaoyang Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Ziyi Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Huan Xia
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yadong Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
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Deng X, Ning Z, Li L, Cui Z, Du X, Amevor FK, Tian Y, Shu G, Du X, Han X, Zhao X. High expression of miR-22-3p in chicken hierarchical follicles promotes granulosa cell proliferation, steroidogenesis, and lipid metabolism via PTEN/PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127415. [PMID: 37848113 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127415] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of RNA macromolecules that play regulatory roles in follicle development by inhibiting protein translation through binding to the 3'UTR of its target genes. Granulosa cell (GC) proliferation, steroidogenesis, and lipid metabolism have indispensable effect during folliculogenesis. In this study, we found that miR-22-3p was highly expressed in the hierarchical follicles of the chickens, which indicated that it may be involved in follicle development. The results obtained suggested that miR-22-3p promoted proliferation, hormone secretion (progesterone and estrogen), and the content of lipid droplets (LDs) in the chicken primary GC. The results from the bioinformatics analysis, luciferase reporter assay, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting, confirmed that PTEN was directly targeted to miR-22-3p. Subsequently, it was revealed that PTEN inhibited proliferation, hormone secretion, and the content of LDs in GC. Therefore, this study showed that miR-22-3p could activate PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway via targeting PTEN. Taken together, the findings from this study indicated that miR-22-3p was highly expressed in the hierarchical follicles of chickens, which promotes GC proliferation, steroidogenesis, and lipid metabolism by repressing PTEN to activate PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Deng
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Zifan Ning
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Liang Li
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Guizhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guiyang, PR China; Guizhou Hongyu Animal Husbandry Technology Development Co., Ltd, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Zhifu Cui
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xiaxia Du
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Felix Kwame Amevor
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Yaofu Tian
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Gang Shu
- Department of Basic Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaohui Du
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Xue Han
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Guizhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guiyang, PR China; Guizhou Hongyu Animal Husbandry Technology Development Co., Ltd, Guiyang, PR China.
| | - Xiaoling Zhao
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China.
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3
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Olotu O, Ahmedani A, Kotaja N. Small Non-Coding RNAs in Male Reproduction. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:213-225. [PMID: 38346711 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1779726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Male reproductive functions are strictly regulated in order to maintain sperm production and fertility. All processes are controlled by precise regulation of gene expression, which creates specific gene expression programs for different developmental stages and cell types, and forms the functional basis for the reproductive system. Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) are involved in gene regulation by targeting mRNAs for translational repression and degradation through complementary base pairing to recognize their targets. This review article summarizes the current knowledge on the function of different classes of sncRNAs, in particular microRNAs (miRNAs) and PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), during male germ cell differentiation, with the focus on sncRNAs expressed in the germline. Although transcriptionally inactive, mature spermatozoa contain a complex population of sncRNAs, and we also discuss the recently identified role of sperm sncRNAs in the intergenerational transmission of epigenetic information on father's environmental and lifestyle exposures to offspring. Finally, we summarize the current information on the utility of sncRNAs as potential biomarkers of infertility that may aid in the diagnosis and prediction of outcomes of medically assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Opeyemi Olotu
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Ammar Ahmedani
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Noora Kotaja
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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Sertoli cell survival and barrier function are regulated by miR-181c/d-Pafah1b1 axis during mammalian spermatogenesis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:498. [PMID: 36008729 PMCID: PMC9411099 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04521-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells contribute to the formation of the blood-testis barrier (BTB), which is necessary for normal spermatogenesis. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as posttranscriptional regulatory elements in BTB function during spermatogenesis. Our previous study has shown that miR-181c or miR-181d (miR-181c/d) is highly expressed in testes from boars at 60 days old compared with at 180 days old. Herein, we found that overexpression of miR-181c/d via miR-181c/d mimics in murine Sertoli cells (SCs) or through injecting miR-181c/d-overexpressing lentivirus in murine testes perturbs BTB function by altering BTB-associated protein distribution at the Sertoli cell-cell interface and F-actin organization, but this in vivo perturbation disappears approximately 6 weeks after the final treatment. We also found that miR-181c/d represses Sertoli cell proliferation and promotes its apoptosis. Moreover, miR-181c/d regulates Sertoli cell survival and barrier function by targeting platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase 1b regulatory subunit 1 (Pafah1b1) gene. Furthermore, miR-181c/d suppresses PAFAH1B1 expression, reduces the complex of PAFAH1B1 with IQ motif-containing GTPase activating protein 1, and inhibits CDC42/PAK1/LIMK1/Cofilin pathway which is required for F-actin stabilization. In total, our results reveal the regulatory axis of miR-181c/d-Pafah1b1 in cell survival and barrier function of Sertoli cells and provide additional insights into miRNA functions in mammalian spermatogenesis.
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Sahota JS, Sharma B, Guleria K, Sambyal V. Candidate genes for infertility: an in-silico study based on cytogenetic analysis. BMC Med Genomics 2022; 15:170. [PMID: 35918717 PMCID: PMC9347124 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-022-01320-x] [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: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The cause of infertility remains unclear in a significant proportion of reproductive-age couples who fail to conceive naturally. Chromosomal aberrations have been identified as one of the main genetic causes of male and female infertility. Structural chromosomal aberrations may disrupt the functioning of various genes, some of which may be important for fertility. The present study aims to identify candidate genes and putative functional interaction networks involved in male and female infertility using cytogenetic data from cultured peripheral blood lymphocytes of infertile patients. Methods Karyotypic analyses was done in 201 infertile patients (100 males and 101 females) and 201 age and gender matched healthy controls (100 males and 101 females) after 72 h peripheral lymphocyte culturing and GTG banding, followed by bioinformatic analysis using Cytoscape v3.8.2 and Metascape. Results Several chromosomal regions with a significantly higher frequency of structural aberrations were identified in the infertile males (5q2, 10q2, and 17q2) and females (6q2, 16q2, and Xq2). Segregation of the patients based on type of infertility (primary v/s secondary infertility) led to the identification of chromosomal regions with a significantly higher frequency of structural aberrations exclusively within the infertile males (5q2, 17q2) and females (16q2) with primary infertility. Cytoscape identified two networks specific to these regions: a male specific network with 99 genes and a female specific network with 109 genes. The top enriched GO terms within the male and female infertility networks were “skeletal system morphogenesis” and “mRNA transport” respectively. PSME3, PSMD3, and CDC27 were the top 3 hub genes identified within the male infertility network. Similarly, UPF3B, IRF8, and PSMB1 were the top 3 hub genes identified with the female infertility network. Among the hub genes identified in the male- and female-specific networks, PSMB1, PSMD3, and PSME3 are functional components of the proteasome complex. These hub genes have a limited number of reports related to their respective roles in maintenance of fertility in mice model and humans and require validation in further studies. Conclusion The candidate genes predicted in the present study can serve as targets for future research on infertility. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12920-022-01320-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jatinder Singh Sahota
- Department of Human Genetics, Cytogenetics Laboratory, Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Bhavna Sharma
- Department of Human Genetics, Cytogenetics Laboratory, Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Kamlesh Guleria
- Department of Human Genetics, Cytogenetics Laboratory, Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Vasudha Sambyal
- Department of Human Genetics, Cytogenetics Laboratory, Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India.
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Morgan M, Kumar L, Li Y, Baptissart M. Post-transcriptional regulation in spermatogenesis: all RNA pathways lead to healthy sperm. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:8049-8071. [PMID: 34748024 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04012-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Multiple RNA pathways are required to produce functional sperm. Here, we review RNA post-transcriptional regulation during spermatogenesis with particular emphasis on the role of 3' end modifications. From early studies in the 1970s, it became clear that spermiogenesis transcripts could be stored for days only to be translated at advanced stages of spermatid differentiation. The transition between the translationally repressed and active states was observed to correlate with the shortening of the transcripts' poly(A) tail, establishing a link between RNA 3' end metabolism and male germ cell differentiation. Since then, numerous RNA metabolic pathways have been implicated not only in the progression through spermatogenesis, but also in the maintenance of genomic integrity. Recent studies have characterized the elusive 3' biogenesis of Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), identified a critical role for messenger RNA (mRNA) 3' uridylation in meiotic progression, established the mechanisms that destabilize transcripts with long 3' untranslated regions (3'UTRs) in post-mitotic cells, and defined the physiological relevance of RNA exonucleases and deadenylases in male germ cells. In this review, we discuss RNA processing in the male germline in the light of the most recent findings. A brief recollection of different RNA-processing events will aid future studies exploring post-transcriptional regulation in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Morgan
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA.
| | - Lokesh Kumar
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Yin Li
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Marine Baptissart
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
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Forouhari S, Mahmoudi E, Safdarian E, Beygi Z, Gheibihayat SM. MicroRNA: A Potential Diagnosis for Male Infertility. Mini Rev Med Chem 2021; 21:1226-1236. [PMID: 33302836 DOI: 10.2174/1389557520999201209213319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility is one of the major global health problems, in particular, in more than half of the affected men. Genetic factors are important for identifying men with idiopathic infertility along with semen analysis. Valid and useful information can be obtained through non-invasive molecular research. Among these, small single-stranded non-coding RNA molecules of microRNAs (abbreviated miRNAs) are non-invasive biomarkers with a diagnostic value by regulating the post-transcriptional gene silence through repression and prevention of the translation process. The association between various types of male infertility and miRNA regulation changes has been evaluated to understand the biological function of miRNA and gene targets. Accordingly, further study of the function of miRNAs associated with reproductive disorders could lead researchers to further understand the molecular mechanisms of male infertility in order to find effective biomarkers and therapeutic strategies. Therefore, the present review article aimed at scrutinizing those researches investigating the altered miRNA expression in testicles, epididymis, and spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedighe Forouhari
- Infertility Research Center, Research center of Quran, Hadith and medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elahe Mahmoudi
- Vali Asr Educational Hospital Arsanjan, University of Medical science's Shiraz, Iran
| | - Esmat Safdarian
- Legal Medicine Research Center, Legal Medicine Organization, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Beygi
- Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Islamic Azad University Meybod Branch, Yazd, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Gheibihayat
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Luo H, Peng F, Weng B, Tang X, Chen Y, Yang A, Chen B, Ran M. miR-222 Suppresses Immature Porcine Sertoli Cell Growth by Targeting the GRB10 Gene Through Inactivating the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway. Front Genet 2020; 11:581593. [PMID: 33329720 PMCID: PMC7673446 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.581593] [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: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are central and essential coordinators of spermatogenesis. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that miRNAs participate in the regulation of Sertoli cell growth. However, the functions and the regulatory mechanisms of miRNAs in Sertoli cells of domestic animals remain largely unknown. Here we report that miR-222 overexpression repressed cell cycle progression and proliferation and promoted the apoptosis of immature porcine Sertoli cells, whereas miR-222 inhibition resulted in the opposite result. miR-222 directly targeted the 3′-UTR of the GRB10 gene and inhibited its mRNA abundance. An siRNA-induced GRB10 knockdown showed similar effects as did miR-222 overexpression on cell proliferation and apoptosis and further attenuated the role of miR-222 inhibition. Furthermore, both miR-222 overexpression and GRB10 inhibition repressed the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT, the key elements of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, whereas GRB10 inhibition offsets the effects of the miR-222 knockdown. Overall, we concluded that miR-222 suppresses immature porcine Sertoli cell growth by targeting the GRB10 gene through inactivation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. This study provides novel insights into the epigenetic regulation of porcine spermatogenesis by determining the fate of Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Luo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Fuzhi Peng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Bo Weng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiangwei Tang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Yao Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Anqi Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Bin Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Maoliang Ran
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
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Yadav RP, Mäkelä JA, Hyssälä H, Cisneros-Montalvo S, Kotaja N. DICER regulates the expression of major satellite repeat transcripts and meiotic chromosome segregation during spermatogenesis. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:7135-7153. [PMID: 32484548 PMCID: PMC7367195 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Constitutive heterochromatin at the pericentric regions of chromosomes undergoes dynamic changes in its epigenetic and spatial organization during spermatogenesis. Accurate control of pericentric heterochromatin is required for meiotic cell divisions and production of fertile and epigenetically intact spermatozoa. In this study, we demonstrate that pericentric heterochromatin is expressed during mouse spermatogenesis to produce major satellite repeat (MSR) transcripts. We show that the endonuclease DICER localizes to the pericentric heterochromatin in the testis. Furthermore, DICER forms complexes with MSR transcripts, and their processing into small RNAs is compromised in Dicer1 knockout mice leading to an elevated level of MSR transcripts in meiotic cells. We also show that defective MSR forward transcript processing in Dicer1 cKO germ cells is accompanied with reduced recruitment of SUV39H2 and H3K9me3 to the pericentric heterochromatin and meiotic chromosome missegregation. Altogether, our results indicate that the physiological role of DICER in maintenance of male fertility extends to the regulation of pericentric heterochromatin through direct targeting of MSR transcripts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram Prakash Yadav
- Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Juho-Antti Mäkelä
- Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Hanna Hyssälä
- Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Sheyla Cisneros-Montalvo
- Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Noora Kotaja
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +358 44 2539225;
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10
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Luo Z, Wang X, Jiang H, Wang R, Chen J, Chen Y, Xu Q, Cao J, Gong X, Wu J, Yang Y, Li W, Han C, Cheng CY, Rosenfeld MG, Sun F, Song X. Reorganized 3D Genome Structures Support Transcriptional Regulation in Mouse Spermatogenesis. iScience 2020; 23:101034. [PMID: 32315832 PMCID: PMC7170994 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional chromatin structures undergo dynamic reorganization during mammalian spermatogenesis; however, their impacts on gene regulation remain unclear. Here, we focused on understanding the structure-function regulation of meiotic chromosomes by Hi-C and other omics techniques in mouse spermatogenesis across five stages. Beyond confirming recent reports regarding changes in compartmentalization and reorganization of topologically associating domains (TADs), we further demonstrated that chromatin loops are present prior to and after, but not at, the pachytene stage. By integrating Hi-C and RNA-seq data, we showed that the switching of A/B compartments between spermatogenic stages is tightly associated with meiosis-specific mRNAs and piRNAs expression. Moreover, our ATAC-seq data indicated that chromatin accessibility per se is not responsible for the TAD and loop diminishment at pachytene. Additionally, our ChIP-seq data demonstrated that CTCF and cohesin remain bound at TAD boundary regions throughout meiosis, suggesting that dynamic reorganization of TADs does not require CTCF and cohesin clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyu Luo
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Xiaorong Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226000, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Ruoyu Wang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and UTHealth, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yusheng Chen
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, College of Future Technology, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Qianlan Xu
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Jun Cao
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Xiaowen Gong
- Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ji Wu
- Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yungui Yang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, College of Future Technology, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Wenbo Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and UTHealth, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chunsheng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, USA
| | - Michael G Rosenfeld
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, School and Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093-0651, USA
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226000, China.
| | - Xiaoyuan Song
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China.
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11
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Wang Y, Wang H, Zhang Y, Du Z, Si W, Fan S, Qin D, Wang M, Duan Y, Li L, Jiao Y, Li Y, Wang Q, Shi Q, Wu X, Xie W. Reprogramming of Meiotic Chromatin Architecture during Spermatogenesis. Mol Cell 2019; 73:547-561.e6. [PMID: 30735655 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2018.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Chromatin organization undergoes drastic reconfiguration during gametogenesis. However, the molecular reprogramming of three-dimensional chromatin structure in this process remains poorly understood for mammals, including primates. Here, we examined three-dimensional chromatin architecture during spermatogenesis in rhesus monkey using low-input Hi-C. Interestingly, we found that topologically associating domains (TADs) undergo dissolution and reestablishment in spermatogenesis. Strikingly, pachytene spermatocytes, where synapsis occurs, are strongly depleted for TADs despite their active transcription state but uniquely show highly refined local compartments that alternate between transcribing and non-transcribing regions (refined-A/B). Importantly, such chromatin organization is conserved in mouse, where it remains largely intact upon transcription inhibition. Instead, it is attenuated in mutant spermatocytes, where the synaptonemal complex failed to be established. Intriguingly, this is accompanied by the restoration of TADs, suggesting that the synaptonemal complex may restrict TADs and promote local compartments. Thus, these data revealed extensive reprogramming of higher-order meiotic chromatin architecture during mammalian gametogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, THU-PKU Center for Life Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Hanben Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SKLRM), Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, THU-PKU Center for Life Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Zhenhai Du
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, THU-PKU Center for Life Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Wei Si
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Suixing Fan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, USTC-SJH Joint Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Diseases, School of Life Sciences, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Dongdong Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SKLRM), Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Mei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SKLRM), Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Yanchao Duan
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Lufan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SKLRM), Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Yuying Jiao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, USTC-SJH Joint Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Diseases, School of Life Sciences, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, THU-PKU Center for Life Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Qiujun Wang
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, THU-PKU Center for Life Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Qinghua Shi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, USTC-SJH Joint Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Diseases, School of Life Sciences, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Xin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SKLRM), Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China.
| | - Wei Xie
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, THU-PKU Center for Life Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
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12
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Bai S, Cheng L, Zhang Y, Zhu C, Zhu Z, Zhu R, Cheng CY, Ye L, Zheng K. A germline-specific role for the mTORC2 component Rictor in maintaining spermatogonial differentiation and intercellular adhesion in mouse testis. Mol Hum Reprod 2019. [PMID: 29518209 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gay009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the physiological role of Rictor in spermatogenic cells? SUMMARY ANSWER Germline expression of Rictor regulates spermatogonial differentiation and has an essential role in coordinating germ cells and Sertoli cells in maintaining intact cell-cell adhesion dynamics and cytoskeleton-based architecture in the seminiferous epithelium. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) resides in its functions as the catalytic subunits of the structurally and functionally distinct mTORC1 and mTORC2 complexes. In the mammalian testis, mTORC1 regulates spermatogonial stem cell self-renewal and differentiation, whereas mTORC2 is required for Sertoli cell function. In contrast to mTORC1, mTORC2 has been much less well studied. Rictor is a distinct component of the mTORC2 complex. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We investigated the effects of germ cell-specific ablation of Rictor on testicular development by using a mouse model of germline-specific ablation of Rictor. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We analyzed the in-vivo functions of Rictor through different methods including histology, immunofluorescent staining, chromosome spreads, blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity assays and RNA sequencing. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Mutant mice did not show a defect in meiotic synapsis or recombination, but exhibited compromised spermatogonial differentiation potential, disorganized cell-cell junctions, impaired BTB dynamics and defective spermiogenesis. Concomitantly, RNA-seq profiling revealed that many genes involved in adhesion and migration were expressed inappropriately. LARGE SCALE DATA RNA-seq data are published in the SRA database (PRJNA419273). LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION A detailed analysis of the mechanisms underlying the phenotype needs further investigations. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our work provides previously unidentified in-vivo evidence that germline expression of Rictor plays a role in maintaining spermatogonial differentiation and cell-cell adhesion. These findings are important for understanding the regulation of spermatogenesis and have clinical implications for the effect of mTOR inhibitors on human fertility. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by National Key R&D Program of China (2016YFA0500902), National Natural Science Foundation of China (31471228 and 31771653), Jiangsu Science Foundation for Distinguished Young Scholars (BK20150047), and Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province (BK20140897, 14KJA180005 and 14KJB310004) to K.Z. The authors declare no competing or financial interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Le Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Yingwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Chunsen Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Zhiping Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Ruping Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, USA
| | - Lan Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Ke Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
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13
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Pancreatic adenocarcinomas with mature blood vessels have better overall survival. Sci Rep 2019; 9:1310. [PMID: 30718678 PMCID: PMC6362082 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-37909-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is known for its hypovascularity. Bevacizumab, an anti-angiogenic drug, added to standard chemotherapy demonstrated no improvement in outcome for PDAC. Therefore, we hypothesized that increased vascularity may be associated with improved outcomes in PDAC possibly due to better delivery of tumor specific immune cells. To test this hypothesis, PDAC patients were classified into either high or low CD31 expression groups utilizing mRNA expression from RNA-sequence data in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) pancreatic cancer cohort. High expression of CD31, which indicates presence of more vascular endothelial cells, was associated with significantly better OS (p = 0.002). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that residual tumor (R1, 2; p = 0.026) and CD31 low expression (p = 0.007) were the only independent predictors that negatively impacted OS. Vascular stability as well as immune response related pathways were significantly upregulated in the CD31 high expressing tumors. Furthermore, there were higher proportions of anti-cancer immune cells infiltration, including activated memory CD4+ T cells (p = 0.038), CD8+ T cells (p = 0.027), gamma-delta T cells (p < 0.001) as well as naïve B cells (p = 0.006), whereas lower proportions of regulatory T cell fractions (p = 0.009), which induce an immune tolerant microenvironment, in the CD31 high expressing tumors. These findings imply that stable vessels supply anti-cancer immune cells, which are at least partially responsible for better OS in the CD31 high expressing tumors. In conclusion, CD31 high expressing PDACs have better OS, which may be due to stable vessels that supply anti-cancer immune cells.
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14
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Reza AMMT, Choi YJ, Han SG, Song H, Park C, Hong K, Kim JH. Roles of microRNAs in mammalian reproduction: from the commitment of germ cells to peri-implantation embryos. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2018; 94:415-438. [PMID: 30151880 PMCID: PMC7379200 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are active regulators of numerous biological and physiological processes including most of the events of mammalian reproduction. Understanding the biological functions of miRNAs in the context of mammalian reproduction will allow a better and comparative understanding of fertility and sterility in male and female mammals. Herein, we summarize recent progress in miRNA‐mediated regulation of mammalian reproduction and highlight the significance of miRNAs in different aspects of mammalian reproduction including the biogenesis of germ cells, the functionality of reproductive organs, and the development of early embryos. Furthermore, we focus on the gene expression regulatory feedback loops involving hormones and miRNA expression to increase our understanding of germ cell commitment and the functioning of reproductive organs. Finally, we discuss the influence of miRNAs on male and female reproductive failure, and provide perspectives for future studies on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abu Musa Md Talimur Reza
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Jung Choi
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Gu Han
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology of Animal Resources, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyuk Song
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Chankyu Park
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwonho Hong
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Hoi Kim
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
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15
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Hollenbach J, Jung K, Noelke J, Gasse H, Pfarrer C, Koy M, Brehm R. Loss of connexin43 in murine Sertoli cells and its effect on blood-testis barrier formation and dynamics. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198100. [PMID: 29856785 PMCID: PMC5983412 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin43 (Cx43) is the predominant testicular gap junction protein and in cases of impaired spermatogenesis, Cx43 expression has been shown to be altered in several mammals. Amongst other functions, Cx43 is supposed to regulate junction formation of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression pattern of different tight junction (TJ) proteins of the murine BTB using SC-specific Cx43 knockout mice (SCCx43KO). Adult homozygous male SCCx43KO mice (SCCx43KO-/-) predominantly show an arrest of spermatogenesis and SC-only tubules that might have been caused by an altered BTB assembly, composition or regulation. TJ molecules claudin-3, -5 and -11 were examined in adult wild type (WT) and SCCx43KO-/- mice using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). In this context, investigation of single tubules with residual spermatogenesis in SCCx43KO-/- mice was particularly interesting to identify a potential Cx43-independent influence of germ cells (GC) on BTB composition and dynamics. In tubules without residual spermatogenesis, a diffuse cytoplasmic distribution pattern for claudin-11 protein could be demonstrated in mutant mice. Nevertheless, claudin-11 seems to form functional TJ. Claudin-3 and -5 could not be detected immunohistochemically in the seminiferous epithelium of those tubules. Correspondingly, claudin-3 and -5 mRNA expression was decreased, providing evidence of generally impaired BTB dynamics in adult KO mice. Observations of tubules with residual spermatogenesis suggested a Cx43-independent regulation of TJ proteins by GC populations. To determine initial BTB formation in peripubertal SCCx43KO-/- mice, immunohistochemical staining and qRT-PCR of claudin-11 were carried out in adolescent SCCx43KO-/- and WT mice. Additionally, BTB integrity was functionally analysed using a hypertonic glucose fixative. These analyses revealed that SCCx43KO-/- mice formed an intact BTB during puberty in the same time period as WT mice, which however seemed to be accelerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Hollenbach
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Klaus Jung
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Joanna Noelke
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hagen Gasse
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Christiane Pfarrer
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Mirja Koy
- Institute for Immunology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralph Brehm
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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16
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Wang Y, Jin L, Ma J, Chen L, Fu Y, Long K, Hu S, Song Y, Shang D, Tang Q, Wang X, Li X, Li M. Hemicastration induced spermatogenesis-related DNA methylation and gene expression changes in mice testis. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2017; 31:189-197. [PMID: 29059727 PMCID: PMC5767500 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.17.0518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 08/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective Hemicastration is a unilateral orchiectomy to remove an injured testis, which can induce hormonal changes and compensatory hypertrophy of the remaining testis, and may influence spermatogenesis. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we investigated the impact of hemicastration on remaining testicular function. Methods Prepubertal mice (age 24 days) were hemicastrated, and their growth was monitored until they reached physical maturity (age 72 days). Subsequently, we determined testis DNA methylation patterns using reduced representation bisulfite sequencing of normal and hemicastrated mice. Moreover, we profiled the testicular gene expression patterns by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to examine whether methylation changes affected gene expression in hemicastrated mice. Results Hemicastration did not significantly affect growth or testosterone (p>0.05) compared with control. The genome-wide DNA methylation pattern of remaining testis suggested that substantial genes harbored differentially methylated regions (1,139) in gene bodies, which were enriched in process of protein binding and cell adhesion. Moreover, RNA-seq results indicated that 46 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in meiotic cell cycle, synaptonemal complex assembly and spermatogenesis were upregulated in the hemicastration group, while 197 DEGs were downregulated, which were related to arachidonic acid metabolism. Integrative analysis revealed that proteasome 26S subunit ATPase 3 interacting protein gene, which encodes a protein crucial for homologous recombination in spermatocytes, exhibited promoter hypomethylation and higher expression level in hemicastrated mice. Conclusion Global profiling of DNA methylation and gene expression demonstrated that hemicastration-induced compensatory response maintained normal growth and testicular morphological structure in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Wang
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Long Jin
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Jideng Ma
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Li Chen
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yuhua Fu
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.,Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Keren Long
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Silu Hu
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yang Song
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Dazhi Shang
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Qianzi Tang
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Xun Wang
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Xuewei Li
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Mingzhou Li
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
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17
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MicroRNAs in Sertoli cells: implications for spermatogenesis and fertility. Cell Tissue Res 2017; 370:335-346. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2667-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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18
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Sun LN, Xing C, Zhi Z, Liu Y, Chen LY, Shen T, Zhou Q, Liu YH, Gan WJ, Wang JR, Xu Y, Li JM. Dicer suppresses cytoskeleton remodeling and tumorigenesis of colorectal epithelium by miR-324-5p mediated suppression of HMGXB3 and WASF-2. Oncotarget 2017; 8:55776-55789. [PMID: 28915552 PMCID: PMC5593523 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.18218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that microRNAs, a class of small and well-conserved noncoding RNAs, participate in many physiological and pathological processes. RNase III endonuclease DICER is one of the key enzymes for microRNA biogenesis. Here, we found that DICER was downregulated in tumor samples of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients at both mRNA and protein levels. Importantly, intestinal epithelial cell (IEC)-specific deletion of Dicer mice got more tumors after azoxymethane and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) administration. Interestingly, IEC-specific deletion of Dicer led to severe chronic inflammation and epithelium layer remodeling in mice with or without DSS administration. Microarray analysis of 3 paired Dicer deletion CRC cell lines showed that miR-324-5p was one of the most significantly decreased miRNAs. In the intestinal epithelium of IEC-specific deletion of Dicer mice, miR-324-5p was also found to be markedly reduced. Mechanistically, miR-324-5p directly bound to the 3′untranslated regions (3′UTRs) of HMG-box containing 3 (HMGXB3) and WAS protein family member 2 (WASF-2), two key proteins participated in cell motility and cytoskeleton remodeling, to suppress their expressions. Intraperitoneal injection of miR-324-5p AgomiR (an agonist of miR-324-5p) curtailed chronic inflammation and cytoskeleton remodeling of colorectal epithelium and restored intestinal barrier function in IEC-specific deletion of Dicer mice induced by DSS. Therefore, our study reveals a key role of a DICER/miR-324-5p/HMGXB3/WASF-2 axis in tumorigenesis of CRC by regulation of cytoskeleton remodeling and maintaining integrity of intestinal barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Na Sun
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Soochow University Medical School, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Xing
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Soochow University Medical School, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Zhi
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Soochow University Medical School, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yao Liu
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Soochow University Medical School, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang-Yan Chen
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Soochow University Medical School, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Tong Shen
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Soochow University Medical School, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qun Zhou
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Soochow University Medical School, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Hong Liu
- Department of Pathology, Baoan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen Juan Gan
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Soochow University Medical School, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Ru Wang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Soochow University Medical School, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Xu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Ming Li
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Soochow University Medical School, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
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19
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Pang TYC, Short AK, Bredy TW, Hannan AJ. Transgenerational paternal transmission of acquired traits: Stress-induced modification of the sperm regulatory transcriptome and offspring phenotypes. Curr Opin Behav Sci 2017; 14:140-147. [PMID: 29270445 PMCID: PMC5734660 DOI: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, it has become evident that pre-conceptual exposure of males to various environmental factors induces epigenetic changes in sperm, which can mediate the transmission of acquired traits in their offspring. The most thoroughly examined paternal exposures involve stress and elevated corticosterone, which have been shown to modulate offspring phenotypes in a manner that is relevant to predisposition to brain disorders, and psychiatric illness in particular. Recent seminal studies have demonstrated that key epigenetic information transmitted via the paternal germline involves small non-coding (snc) RNA transcripts such as microRNAs. Following fertilisation, these sncRNAs appear to regulate development so as to modify the phenotype of the offspring. Understanding the mechanisms involved in such transgenerational effects may facilitate future screening of human sperm for 'epigenetic health' and the tailoring of therapeutic interventions according to genetic and epigenetic contributions to illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terence Y C Pang
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne Brain Centre, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Annabel K Short
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne Brain Centre, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Timothy W Bredy
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory and Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Anthony J Hannan
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne Brain Centre, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
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Zhang J, Yuan Y, Liu Q, Yang D, Liu M, Shen L, Zhou Y, Wang Z. Differentially expressed genes in the testicular tissues of adenylyl cyclase 3 knockout mice. Gene 2017; 602:33-42. [PMID: 27864010 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2016.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Adenylate cyclase 3 (AC3) is an important component of the cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) signaling pathway and converts adenosine triphosphate into cAMP. Male mice with AC3 deletion (AC3-/-) are sterile. However, the mechanical mechanism remains unclear. By TUNEL staining, we found that cell apoptosis in the testicular tissues of AC3-/- mice increased significantly compared with that in the wild-type (AC3+/+) mice. Differentially expressed genes regulated by AC3 in the testicular tissues were identified by gene chip hybridization. We observed that the expression of 693 genes was altered in the testicular tissues of AC3-/- mice, including 330 up-regulated and 363 down-regulated gene expression with fold changes higher than 2 (≥2) as the standards. Furthermore, part of these differentially expressed genes was verified by the real-time fluorescence quantification PCR and immunofluorescent staining. The expression levels of the genes related to olfactory receptors, cell apoptosis, transcriptional activity, defensive reaction, cell adhesion, cell death, and immunoreactions were significantly altered in the testicular tissues of AC3-/- mice compared with AC3+/+ mice. In addition, the corresponding Ca2+, cAMP, and cell adhesion signaling pathways, as well as the signaling pathways related to axon guidance and cell interaction, were altered significantly in the AC3-/- mice. These data would help elucidate the general understanding of the mechanisms underlying the sterility in AC3-/- male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- College of Life Science, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071002, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- College of Life Science, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071002, China
| | - Qingxiu Liu
- College of Life Science, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071002, China
| | - Dong Yang
- College of Life Science, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071002, China
| | - Mingshen Liu
- College of Public Health, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071002, China
| | - Limin Shen
- College of Medicine, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071002, China
| | - Yanfen Zhou
- College of Life Science, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071002, China.
| | - Zhenshan Wang
- College of Life Science, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province 071002, China.
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