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Zhao Z, Qi HY, Li ZF, Wang LM, Wang JM, Tan FQ, Yang WX. Vangl2 regulates intercellular junctions by remodeling actin-based cytoskeleton through the Rock signaling pathway during spermatogenesis in Eriocheir sinensis. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 279:135264. [PMID: 39226977 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.135264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2024] [Revised: 08/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
As a key planar cell polarity protein, Van Gogh-like 2 (Vangl2) is essential for mammalian spermatogenesis. As a decapod crustacean, Eriocheir sinensis exhibits distinct spermatogenic processes due to its unique seminiferous tubule morphology and hemolymph-testis barrier (HTB). To determine whether Vangl2 performs analogous functions in E. sinensis, we identified the Es-Vangl2. Es-Vangl2 exhibited high expression and wide distribution in the testes, indicating its crucial involvement in spermatogenesis. Following targeted knockdown of Es-Vangl2in vivo, the structure of seminiferous tubules was disrupted, characterized by vacuolization of the germinal zone and obstruction of spermatozoon release. Concurrently, the integrity of the HTB was compromised, accompanied by reduced expression and aberrant localization of junction proteins. More importantly, the regulatory influence of Es-Vangl2 was manifested through modulating the organization of microfilaments, a process mediated by epidermal growth factor receptor pathway substrate 8 (Eps8). Further studies demonstrated that these phenotypes resulting from Es-Vangl2 knockdown were attributed to the inhibition of Rock signaling pathway activity, which was verified by the Es-Rock interference and Y27632 inhibition assays. In summary, the findings highlight the pivotal role of Es-Vangl2 in stabilizing HTB integrity by regulating Eps8-mediated actin remodeling through the Rock signaling pathway in the spermatogenesis of E. sinensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhan Zhao
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Hong-Yu Qi
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhen-Fang Li
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lan-Min Wang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jia-Ming Wang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Fu-Qing Tan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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2
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Mo S, Shu G, Cao C, Wang M, Yang J, Ye J, Gui Y, Yuan S, Ma Q. Sertoli cells require hnRNPC to support normal spermatogenesis and male fertility in mice†. Biol Reprod 2024; 111:227-241. [PMID: 38590182 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae055] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells act as highly polarized testicular cells that nutritionally support multiple stages of germ cell development. However, the gene regulation network in Sertoli cells for modulating germ cell development has yet to be fully understood. In this study, we report that heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins C in Sertoli cells are essential for germ cell development and male fertility. Conditional knockout of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C in mouse Sertoli cells leads to aberrant Sertoli cells proliferation, disrupted cytoskeleton of Sertoli cells, and compromised blood-testis barrier function, resulting in loss of supportive cell function and, ultimately, defective spermiogenesis in mice. Further ribonucleic acid-sequencing analyses revealed these phenotypes are likely caused by the dysregulated genes in heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C-deficient Sertoli cells related to cell adhesion, cell proliferation, and apoptotic process. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C plays a critical role in Sertoli cells for maintaining the function of Sertoli cells and sustaining steady-state spermatogenesis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaomei Mo
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, the Fifth Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Ge Shu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, the Fifth Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Congcong Cao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, the Fifth Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingxia Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, the Fifth Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, the Fifth Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jing Ye
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, the Fifth Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yaoting Gui
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, the Fifth Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Laboratory Animal Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qian Ma
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, the Fifth Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Urology, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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3
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Wang L, Bu T, Wu X, Li L, Sun F, Cheng CY. Motor proteins, spermatogenesis and testis function. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2024; 141:381-445. [PMID: 38960481 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
The role of motor proteins in supporting intracellular transports of vesicles and organelles in mammalian cells has been known for decades. On the other hand, the function of motor proteins that support spermatogenesis is also well established since the deletion of motor protein genes leads to subfertility and/or infertility. Furthermore, mutations and genetic variations of motor protein genes affect fertility in men, but also a wide range of developmental defects in humans including multiple organs besides the testis. In this review, we seek to provide a summary of microtubule and actin-dependent motor proteins based on earlier and recent findings in the field. Since these two cytoskeletons are polarized structures, different motor proteins are being used to transport cargoes to different ends of these cytoskeletons. However, their involvement in germ cell transport across the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and the epithelium of the seminiferous tubules remains relatively unknown. It is based on recent findings in the field, we have provided a hypothetical model by which motor proteins are being used to support germ cell transport across the BTB and the seminiferous epithelium during the epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis. In our discussion, we have highlighted the areas of research that deserve attention to bridge the gap of research in relating the function of motor proteins to spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Tiao Bu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
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4
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Ke L, Lin X, Luo Y, Tao S, Yan C, He Y, Wu Y, Liu N, Qin Y. Autophagy core protein BECN1 is vital for spermatogenesis and male fertility in mice†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:599-614. [PMID: 37975917 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad160] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a highly complex multi-step biological process, and autophagy has been demonstrated to be involved in the process of spermatogenesis. Beclin-1/BECN1, a core autophagy factor, plays a critical role in many biological processes and diseases. However, its function in spermatogenesis remains largely unclear. In the present study, germ cell-specific Beclin 1 (Becn1) knockout mice were generated and were conducted to determine the role of Becn1 in spermatogenesis and fertility of mice. Results indicate that Becn1 deficiency leads to reduced sperm motility and quantity, partial failure of spermiation, actin network disruption, excessive residual cytoplasm, acrosome malformation, and aberrant mitochondrial accumulation of sperm, ultimately resulting in reduced fertility in male mice. Furthermore, inhibition of autophagy was observed in the testes of germ cell-specific Becn1 knockout mice, which may contribute to impaired spermiogenesis and reduced fertility. Collectively, our results reveal that Becn1 is essential for fertility and spermiogenesis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyi Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuchuan Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Siming Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Chang Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yifeilong He
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingjie Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yinghe Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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5
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Liu S, Bian YC, Wang WL, Liu TJ, Zhang T, Chang Y, Xiao R, Zhang CL. Identification of hub genes associated with spermatogenesis by bioinformatics analysis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18435. [PMID: 37891374 PMCID: PMC10611713 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45620-3] [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: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process related to male infertility. Till now, the critical genes and specific mechanisms have not been elucidated clearly. Our objective was to determine the hub genes that play a crucial role in spermatogenesis by analyzing the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) present in non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) compared to OA and normal samples using bioinformatics analysis. Four datasets, namely GSE45885, GSE45887, GSE9210 and GSE145467 were used. Functional enrichment analyses were performed on the DEGs. Hub genes were identified based on protein-protein interactions between DEGs. The expression of the hub genes was further examined in the testicular germ cell tumors from the TCGA by the GEPIA and validated by qRT-PCR in the testes of lipopolysaccharide-induced acute orchitis mice with impaired spermatogenesis. A total of 203 DEGs including 34 up-regulated and 169 down-regulated were identified. Functional enrichment analysis showed DEGs were mainly involved in microtubule motility, the process of cell growth and protein transport. PRM2, TEKT2, FSCN3, UBQLN3, SPATS1 and GTSF1L were identified and validated as hub genes for spermatogenesis. Three of them (PRM2, FSCN3 and TEKT2) were significantly down-regulated in the testicular germ cell tumors and their methylation levels were associated with the pathogenesis. In summary, the hub genes identified may be related to spermatogenesis and may act as potential therapeutic targets for NOA and testicular germ cell tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liu
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, 010059, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Yan-Chao Bian
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, 010059, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Wan-Lun Wang
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, 010059, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Tong-Jia Liu
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, 010059, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, 010059, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Yue Chang
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, 010059, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Rui Xiao
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, 010059, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China.
| | - Chuan-Ling Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, 010110, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China.
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Li ZF, Qi HY, Wang JM, Zhao Z, Tan FQ, Yang WX. mTORC1/rpS6 and mTORC2/PKC regulate spermatogenesis through Arp3-mediated actin microfilament organization in Eriocheir sinensis. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 393:559-575. [PMID: 37328709 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-023-03795-1] [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: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a crucial signaling protein regulating a range of cellular events. Numerous studies have reported that the mTOR pathway is related to spermatogenesis in mammals. However, its functions and underlying mechanisms in crustaceans remain largely unknown. mTOR exists as two multimeric functional complexes termed mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2. Herein, we first cloned ribosomal protein S6 (rpS6, a downstream molecule of mTORC1) and protein kinase C (PKC, a downstream effector of mTORC2) from the testis of Eriocheir sinensis. The dynamic localization of rpS6 and PKC suggested that both proteins may be essential for spermatogenesis. rpS6/PKC knockdown and Torin1 treatment led to defects in spermatogenesis, including germ cell loss, retention of mature sperm and empty lumen formation. In addition, the integrity of the testis barrier (similar to the blood-testis barrier in mammals) was disrupted in the rpS6/PKC knockdown and Torin1 treatment groups, accompanied by changing in expression and distribution of junction proteins. Further study demonstrated that these findings may result from the disorganization of filamentous actin (F-actin) networks, which were mediated by the expression of actin-related protein 3 (Arp3) rather than epidermal growth factor receptor pathway substrate 8 (Eps8). In summary, our study illustrated that mTORC1/rpS6 and mTORC2/PKC regulated spermatogenesis via Arp3-mediated actin microfilament organization in E. sinensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Fang Li
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Hong-Yu Qi
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jia-Ming Wang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Zhan Zhao
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Fu-Qing Tan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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7
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Zhu H, Wen Z, Zhang A, Liu D, Wang H, Cheng Y, Yang X, Xiao Y, Li J, Sun D, Wu B, Gao J. RhoGDIα regulates spermatogenesis through Rac1/cofilin/F-actin signaling. Commun Biol 2023; 6:214. [PMID: 36823181 PMCID: PMC9950379 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04579-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is an extremely complex process, and any obstruction can cause male infertility. RhoGDIα has been identified as a risk of male sterility. In this study, we generate RhoGDIα knockout mice, and find that the males have severely low fertility. The testes from RhoGDIα-/- mice are smaller than that in WT mice. The numbers of spermatogonia and spermatocytes are decreased in RhoGDIα-/- testis. Spermatogenesis is compromised, and spermatocyte meiosis is arrested at zygotene stage in RhoGDIα-/- mice. Acrosome dysplasia is also observed in sperms of the mutant mice. At the molecular level, RhoGDIα deficiency activate the LIMK/cofilin signaling pathway, inhibiting F-actin depolymerization, impairing testis and inducing low fertility in mouse. In addition, the treatment of RhoGDIα-/- mice with Rac1 inhibitor NSC23766 alleviate testis injury and improve sperm quality by inhibiting the LIMK/cofilin/F-actin pathway during spermatogenesis. Together, these findings reveal a previously unrecognized RhoGDIα/Rac1/F-actin-dependent mechanism involved in spermatogenesis and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixia Zhu
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Zongzhuang Wen
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250117, China
| | - Aizhen Zhang
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Dongyue Liu
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Hongxiang Wang
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Yin Cheng
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Xing Yang
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Yu Xiao
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Jianyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Daqing Sun
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250013, China.
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
| | - Jiangang Gao
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China.
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8
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Lv Q, Li S, Miao M, Jin S, Li F. IAG Regulates the Expression of Cytoskeletal Protein-Encoding Genes in Shrimp Testis. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14030564. [PMID: 36980836 PMCID: PMC10048434 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like androgenic gland hormone (IAG) is the master regulator of sexual differentiation and testis development in male crustaceans. However, the molecular mechanism on how IAG functions during testis development is still largely unknown. Here, the transcriptional changes were analyzed in the testes of shrimp after LvIAG knockdown in Litopenaeus vannamei. Differential expression analysis identified 111 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 48 upregulated DEGs and 63 downregulated DEGs, in testes of shrimp after LvIAG knockdown. Gene ontology (GO) analysis showed that these DEGs were apparently enriched in cytoskeleton-related GO items. Gene function analysis showed that genes enriched in these GO items mainly encoded actin, myosin, and heat shock protein. Interestingly, these genes were all downregulated in testis after LvIAG knockdown, which was confirmed by qRT-PCR detection. Furthermore, injection of LvIAG protein that was recombinantly expressed in insect cells upregulated the expression levels of these genes. The present study revealed that shrimp IAG might function in testis development through regulating the expression of cytoskeletal protein-encoding genes, which would provide new insights into understanding the functional mechanisms of IAG on male sexual development of crustaceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Lv
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266237, China
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Shihao Li
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266237, China
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Miao Miao
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Songjun Jin
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Fuhua Li
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266237, China
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
- The Innovation of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
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9
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Camacho-Moll ME, Looijenga LHJ, Donat R, Shukla CJ, Jørgensen A, Mitchell RT. Expression of Intermediate Filaments in the Developing Testis and Testicular Germ Cell Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5479. [PMID: 36428571 PMCID: PMC9688874 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14225479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokeratin and desmin expression have been associated with Sertoli cell maturity and the development of testicular germ cell cancer (TGCC). Thus, the present study aimed to characterize the expression of these intermediate filaments in normal testis development and TGCC. Cytokeratin and desmin were determined by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence in human fetal, and adult testis and tissue from patients with pre-invasive germ cell neoplasia in-situ (GCNIS) or invasive TGCC. Desmin was expressed in Sertoli cells of the human fetal testis, and the proportion of desmin expressing Sertoli cells was significantly reduced in the second trimester, compared with the first trimester (31.14% vs. 6.74%, p = 0.0016). Additionally, Desmin was expressed in the majority of Sertoli cells in the adult testis and TGCC samples. Cytokeratin was detected in Sertoli cells of human fetal testis but was not expressed in Sertoli cells of human adult testis. In patients with TGCC, cytokeratin was not expressed in Sertoli cells in tubules with active spermatogenesis but was detected in Sertoli cells in tubules containing GCNIS cells in patients with both pre-invasive and invasive TGCC. In conclusion, desmin was not associated with Sertoli cell maturation or progression to TGCC. However, cytokeratin appeared to be an indicator of impaired Sertoli cell maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E. Camacho-Moll
- Department of Molecular Biology, Northeast Centre for Biomedical Research, Mexican Institute for Social Security, 2 de abril 501, Esq. San Luis Potosi, Col. Independencia, Monterrey C.P. 64720, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Leendert H. J. Looijenga
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Roland Donat
- Department of Urology, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, Scotland, UK
| | - Chitranjan J. Shukla
- Department of Urology, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, Scotland, UK
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rod T. Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, Scotland, UK
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10
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Vassal M, Pereira CD, Martins F, Silva VLM, Silva AMS, Senos AMR, Costa MEV, Pereira MDL, Rebelo S. Different Strategies to Attenuate the Toxic Effects of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Spermatogonia Cells. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:3561. [PMID: 36296751 PMCID: PMC9607034 DOI: 10.3390/nano12203561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are one of the most used nanoparticles due to their unique physicochemical and biological properties. There is, however, a growing concern about their negative impact on male reproductive health. Therefore, in the present study, two different strategies were used to evaluate the recovery ability of spermatogonia cells from the first stage of spermatogenesis (GC-1 spg cell line) after being exposed to a cytotoxic concentration of ZnO NPs (20 µg/mL) for two different short time periods, 6 and 12 h. The first strategy was to let the GC-1 cells recover after ZnO NPs exposure in a ZnO NPs-free medium for 4 days. At this phase, cell viability assays were performed to evaluate whether this period was long enough to allow for cell recovery. Exposure to ZnO NPs for 6 h and 12 h induced a decrease in viability of 25% and 41%, respectively. However, the recovery period allowed for an increase in cell viability from 16% to 25% to values as high as 91% and 84%. These results strongly suggest that GC-1 cells recover, but not completely, given that the cell viability does not reach 100%. Additionally, the impact of a synthetic chalcone (E)-3-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-1-(2-hydroxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-one (1) to counteract the reproductive toxicity of ZnO NPs was investigated. Different concentrations of chalcone 1 (0-12.5 µM) were used before and during exposure of GC-1 cells to ZnO NPs to mitigate the damage induced by NPs. The protective ability of this compound was evaluated through viability assays, levels of DNA damage, and cytoskeleton dynamics (evaluating the acetylated α-tubulin and β-actin protein levels). The results indicated that the tested concentrations of chalcone 1 can attenuate the genotoxicity induced by ZnO NPs for shorter exposure periods (6 h). Chalcone 1 supplementation also increased cell viability and stabilized the microtubules. However, the antioxidant potential of this compound remains to be elucidated. In conclusion, this work addressed the main cytotoxic effects of ZnO NPs on a spermatogonia cell line and analyzed two different strategies to mitigate this damage, which represent a significant contribution to the field of male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Vassal
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Cátia D. Pereira
- Institute of Biomedicine—iBiMED, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Filipa Martins
- Institute of Biomedicine—iBiMED, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Vera L. M. Silva
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Artur M. S. Silva
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana M. R. Senos
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria Elisabete V. Costa
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sandra Rebelo
- Institute of Biomedicine—iBiMED, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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11
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Zhao Y, Chen MS, Wang JX, Cui JG, Zhang H, Li XN, Li JL. Connexin-43 is a promising target for lycopene preventing phthalate-induced spermatogenic disorders. J Adv Res 2022:S2090-1232(22)00203-X. [PMID: 36087924 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Male infertility is a multifactorial pathological condition and may be a harbinger of future health. Phthalates are ubiquitous environmental contaminants that have been implicated in the global decline in male fertility. Among them, di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is the most prevalently used. Lycopene (LYC) is a possible preventive and therapeutic agent for male infertility owing to its antioxidant properties. The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is formed between Sertoli cells where it creates a unique microenvironment for spermatogenesis. OBJECTIVES We hypothesize that phthalate caused male infertility and LYC plays an important role in phthalate-induced male fertility disorders. METHODS Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, ultrastructure observation, and fluorescence microscopy were used to examine the morphological changes. RNA-Seq, and western blotting were conducted to detect gene and protein levels. Routine testing for sperm morphology and sperm-egg binding assay were conducted to examine the morphological structure and function of sperm. Cell scratch assay and transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) were used to detect cell migration capacity and barrier integrity. RESULTS In vivo experiments, we showed that LYC prevented DEHP-induced impairment of BTB integrity, which provided a guarantee for the smooth progress of spermatogenesis. LYC improved DEHP-induced change in sperm parameters and fertilization ability. Subsequent in vitro experiments, LYC alleviated MEHP-induced disruption of intercellular junctions in mouse Spermatogonia cells (GC-1 cells) and mouse Sertoli cells (TM4 cells). In MEHP-induced BTB impairment models of Sertoli cells, treatment with LYC or overexpressing connexin-43 (Cx43) promoted cell migration capacity and normalized BTB integrity. Cx43 knockdown inhibited cell migration capacity and perturbed BTB reassembly in LYC preventing DEHP-induced BTB impairment. CONCLUSION Our study provides evidence for the role of LYC in phthalates-induced spermatogenic disorders and points to Cx43 as a potential target for male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Ming-Shan Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Xin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Gen Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Hao Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Xue-Nan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Jin-Long Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China.
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12
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Zhang Y. SPATA33 affects the formation of cell adhesion complex by interacting with CTNNA3 in TM4 cells. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 389:145-157. [PMID: 35536443 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03631-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Communication between Sertoli cell is essential during spermatogenesis and testicular development in mice, and the dynamic balance of this communication is regulated by some adhesion proteins. In this study, we found that SPATA33 and CTNNA3 were involved in this process. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting showed similar trend of expression of two proteins in the testis of mice of different ages. Subsequently, CRISPR-Cas9 technique was used to prepare Spata33 knockout cell lines with TM4 cells, cell wound scratch assay showed that Spata33 gene knockout affected cell migration, and flow cytometry assay showed that Spata33 knockout resulted in a decreased percentage of G1 phase cells in TM4 cell line. In addition, phalloidin staining assay showed that Spata33 gene knockout disrupted the formation of F-actin. Moreover, the protein immunoprecipitation experiment showed the interaction between SPATA33 and CTNNA3, which affected the interaction between CTNNA3 and CTNNB1. SPATA33 inhibits the formation of CDH1-CTNNB1-CTNNA3 complex through its interaction with CTNNA3, thus weakening adhesion between Sertoli cell and promoting cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Luoyang Normal University, Luoyang, 471934, Henan, China.
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13
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Wang L, Bu T, Wu X, Gao S, Li X, De Jesus AB, Wong CKC, Chen H, Chung NPY, Sun F, Cheng CY. Cell-Cell Interaction-Mediated Signaling in the Testis Induces Reproductive Dysfunction—Lesson from the Toxicant/Pharmaceutical Models. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040591. [PMID: 35203242 PMCID: PMC8869896 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence has shown that cell-cell interactions between testicular cells, in particular at the Sertoli cell-cell and Sertoli-germ cell interface, are crucial to support spermatogenesis. The unique ultrastructures that support cell-cell interactions in the testis are the basal ES (ectoplasmic specialization) and the apical ES. The basal ES is found between adjacent Sertoli cells near the basement membrane that also constitute the blood-testis barrier (BTB). The apical ES is restrictively expressed at the Sertoli-spermatid contact site in the apical (adluminal) compartment of the seminiferous epithelium. These ultrastructures are present in both rodent and human testes, but the majority of studies found in the literature were done in rodent testes. As such, our discussion herein, unless otherwise specified, is focused on studies in testes of adult rats. Studies have shown that the testicular cell-cell interactions crucial to support spermatogenesis are mediated through distinctive signaling proteins and pathways, most notably involving FAK, Akt1/2 and Cdc42 GTPase. Thus, manipulation of some of these signaling proteins, such as FAK, through the use of phosphomimetic mutants for overexpression in Sertoli cell epithelium in vitro or in the testis in vivo, making FAK either constitutively active or inactive, we can modify the outcome of spermatogenesis. For instance, using the toxicant-induced Sertoli cell or testis injury in rats as study models, we can either block or rescue toxicant-induced infertility through overexpression of p-FAK-Y397 or p-FAK-Y407 (and their mutants), including the use of specific activator(s) of the involved signaling proteins against pAkt1/2. These findings thus illustrate that a potential therapeutic approach can be developed to manage toxicant-induced male reproductive dysfunction. In this review, we critically evaluate these recent findings, highlighting the direction for future investigations by bringing the laboratory-based research through a translation path to clinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Wang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Tiao Bu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Sheng Gao
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Xinyao Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | | | - Chris K. C. Wong
- Department of Biology, Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Hao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Nancy P. Y. Chung
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (C.Y.C.)
| | - C. Yan Cheng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (C.Y.C.)
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14
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Cheng J, Yang F, Liu S, Zhao H, Lu W, Zhang Q. Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Functional Interaction of mRNA-lncRNA-miRNA in Steroidogenesis and Spermatogenesis of Gynogenetic Japanese Flounder ( Paralichthys olivaceus). BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020213. [PMID: 35205081 PMCID: PMC8869744 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Teleost fishes exhibit extraordinary diversity, plasticity and adaptability with their sex determination and sexual development, and there is growing evidence that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are emerging as critical regulators of reproduction. Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) is an important marine cultured fish that presents significant sexual dimorphism with bigger females, in which gynogenesis has been applied for aquaculture industry. In order to reveal the regulatory mechanisms of sexual development in gynogenetic female and sex-reversed neo-male P. olivaceus, the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA interactions were investigated using high-throughput sequencing. A total of 6772 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs), 2284 DElncRNAs, and 244 DEmiRNAs were obtained between gynogenetic female ovaries and sex-reversed neo-male testes. Genes in the steroid hormone biosynthesis and secretion pathway were enriched and mostly significantly upregulated in neo-male testes. Subsequently, network analysis uncovered high functional specificity for gynogenetic P. olivaceus sperm motility, as co-expressed DEmRNAs were significantly enriched in microtubule and cytoskeleton-related biological processes. Clustered miRNAs were characterized in the P. olivaceus genome with examples of the largest conserved let-7 clusters. The 20 let-7 members are distributed in 11 clusters and may not transcribe together with their neighboring miR-125b, with let-7 repressing cyp11a and miR-125b repressing esr2b, both as key steroidogenesis pathway genes. In summary, this study provides comprehensive insights into the mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA functional crosstalk in teleost sexual development and gametogenesis and will expand our understanding of ncRNA biology in teleost gynogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (F.Y.); (S.L.); (H.Z.); (W.L.)
- Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya 572024, China
- Correspondence: (J.C.); (Q.Z.); Tel.: +86-0532-82031986 (J.C.)
| | - Fan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (F.Y.); (S.L.); (H.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Saisai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (F.Y.); (S.L.); (H.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Haitao Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (F.Y.); (S.L.); (H.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Wei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (F.Y.); (S.L.); (H.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Quanqi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (F.Y.); (S.L.); (H.Z.); (W.L.)
- Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya 572024, China
- Correspondence: (J.C.); (Q.Z.); Tel.: +86-0532-82031986 (J.C.)
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15
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Teves ME, Roldan ERS. Sperm bauplan and function and underlying processes of sperm formation and selection. Physiol Rev 2022; 102:7-60. [PMID: 33880962 PMCID: PMC8812575 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00009.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The spermatozoon is a highly differentiated and polarized cell, with two main structures: the head, containing a haploid nucleus and the acrosomal exocytotic granule, and the flagellum, which generates energy and propels the cell; both structures are connected by the neck. The sperm's main aim is to participate in fertilization, thus activating development. Despite this common bauplan and function, there is an enormous diversity in structure and performance of sperm cells. For example, mammalian spermatozoa may exhibit several head patterns and overall sperm lengths ranging from ∼30 to 350 µm. Mechanisms of transport in the female tract, preparation for fertilization, and recognition of and interaction with the oocyte also show considerable variation. There has been much interest in understanding the origin of this diversity, both in evolutionary terms and in relation to mechanisms underlying sperm differentiation in the testis. Here, relationships between sperm bauplan and function are examined at two levels: first, by analyzing the selective forces that drive changes in sperm structure and physiology to understand the adaptive values of this variation and impact on male reproductive success and second, by examining cellular and molecular mechanisms of sperm formation in the testis that may explain how differentiation can give rise to such a wide array of sperm forms and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eugenia Teves
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Eduardo R S Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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16
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Park JK, Song Y, Kim DW, Cho K, Yeo JM, Lee R, Lim YS, Lee WY, Park HJ. Helix-loop-helix protein ID4 expressed in bovine Sertoli cells. Acta Histochem 2021; 123:151800. [PMID: 34673438 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Stage- and cell type-specific biomarkers are important for understanding spermatogenesis in mammalian testis. The present study identified several testicular cell marker proteins in 6- and 24-month old bovine testes. In 6-month old bovine testes, spermatogonia and spermatocytes were detected but complete spermatogenesis occurred in 24-month old testes. The diameters of the seminiferous tubules increased significantly in the 24-month old testes compared with those in the 6-month old testes. Protein Gene Product 9.5 (PGP9.5), also known as the undifferentiated spermatogonium marker, and GATA4 (GATA binding protein 4), vimentin, and SOX9 (SRY-Box Transcription Factor 9) were detected in the basement membrane region. Interestingly, ID4 (inhibitor of DNA binding protein 4; previously known as the undifferentiated cell marker) proteins were located in the basement membrane region but their expression patterns were different from those of PGP9.5. Co-immunohistochemistry results showed that ID4 was detected in the Sertoli cells expressing vimentin and SOX9 in 6- and 24-month old bovine testes. This result indicated that ID4 is a putative biomarker of Sertoli cell in the bovine system, which is different from the rodent models. Thus, these results will contribute in understanding the process of spermatogenesis that is different in bovines compared to other species.
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17
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Jenardhanan P, Panneerselvam M, Mathur PP. Use of Molecular Modeling to Study Spermatogenesis: An Overview Using Proteins in Sertoli Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:205-214. [PMID: 34453738 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Computational structure prediction and analysis helps in understanding the structure and function of varied proteins, which otherwise becomes implausible to understand by experimental procedures. Computational techniques prove to be instrumental in understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlies physiological processes and thereby also assist in identification of potent inhibitors. Spermatogenesis, being an important cellular process that decides the fate of the progeny, holds numerous molecular interaction data, which when identified and visualized with computational structural insights, might yield a cohesive and clear-cut perception to the functionality of several proteins involved. The present chapter deals with a few selected applications of computational structure prediction towards understanding the structure of proteins and highlights how these insights are useful in providing a better understanding of different processes in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manivel Panneerselvam
- Department of Biotechnology, BJM School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Premendu P Mathur
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, India.
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18
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Altered Expression of DAAM1 and PREP Induced by Cadmium Toxicity Is Counteracted by Melatonin in the Rat Testis. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12071016. [PMID: 34208970 PMCID: PMC8304460 DOI: 10.3390/genes12071016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most toxic pollutants for health due to its accumulation in several tissues, including testis. This report confirms that Cd increased oxidative stress and apoptosis of germ and somatic cells and provoked testicular injury, as documented by biomolecular and histological alterations, i.e., CAT and SOD activity, the protein level of steroidogenic enzymes (StAR and 3β-HSD), and morphometric parameters. Additionally, it further documents the melatonin (MLT) coadministration produces affects in mitigating Cd-induced toxicity on adult rat testis, as demonstrated by the reduction of oxidative stress and apoptosis, with reversal of the observed histological changes; moreover, a role of MLT in partially restoring steroidogenic enzymes expression was evidenced. Importantly, the cytoarchitecture of testicular cells was perturbed by Cd exposure, as highlighted by impairment of the expression and localization of two cytoskeleton-associated proteins DAAM1 and PREP, which are involved in the germ cells' differentiation into spermatozoa, altering the normal spermatogenesis. Here, for the first time, we found that the co-treatment with MLT attenuated the Cd-induced toxicity on the testicular DAAM1 and PREP expression. The combined findings provide additional clues about a protective effect of MLT against Cd-induced testicular toxicity by acting on DAAM1 and PREP expression, encouraging further studies to prove its effectiveness in human health.
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19
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Zakrzewski P, Lenartowska M, Buss F. Diverse functions of myosin VI in spermiogenesis. Histochem Cell Biol 2021; 155:323-340. [PMID: 33386429 PMCID: PMC8021524 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-020-01954-x] [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] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Spermiogenesis is the final stage of spermatogenesis, a differentiation process during which unpolarized spermatids undergo excessive remodeling that results in the formation of sperm. The actin cytoskeleton and associated actin-binding proteins play crucial roles during this process regulating organelle or vesicle delivery/segregation and forming unique testicular structures involved in spermatid remodeling. In addition, several myosin motor proteins including MYO6 generate force and movement during sperm differentiation. MYO6 is highly unusual as it moves towards the minus end of actin filaments in the opposite direction to other myosin motors. This specialized feature of MYO6 may explain the many proposed functions of this myosin in a wide array of cellular processes in animal cells, including endocytosis, secretion, stabilization of the Golgi complex, and regulation of actin dynamics. These diverse roles of MYO6 are mediated by a range of specialized cargo-adaptor proteins that link this myosin to distinct cellular compartments and processes. During sperm development in a number of different organisms, MYO6 carries out pivotal functions. In Drosophila, the MYO6 ortholog regulates actin reorganization during spermatid individualization and male KO flies are sterile. In C. elegans, the MYO6 ortholog mediates asymmetric segregation of cytosolic material and spermatid budding through cytokinesis, whereas in mice, this myosin regulates assembly of highly specialized actin-rich structures and formation of membrane compartments to allow the formation of fully differentiated sperm. In this review, we will present an overview and compare the diverse function of MYO6 in the specialized adaptations of spermiogenesis in flies, worms, and mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Przemysław Zakrzewski
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Torun, Poland.,Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, The Keith Peters Building, University of Cambridge, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Marta Lenartowska
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Torun, Poland.,Centre for Modern Interdisciplinary Technologies, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Torun, Poland
| | - Folma Buss
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, The Keith Peters Building, University of Cambridge, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0XY, UK.
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20
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Liu SW, Li HT, Ge RS, Cheng CY. NC1-peptide derived from collagen α3 (IV) chain is a blood-tissue barrier regulator: lesson from the testis. Asian J Androl 2021; 23:123-128. [PMID: 32896837 PMCID: PMC7991810 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_44_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Collagen α3 (IV) chains are one of the major constituent components of the basement membrane in the mammalian testis. Studies have shown that biologically active fragments, such as noncollagenase domain (NC1)-peptide, can be released from the C-terminal region of collagen α3 (IV) chains, possibly through the proteolytic action of metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9). NC1-peptide was shown to promote blood–testis barrier (BTB) remodeling and fully developed spermatid (e.g., sperm) release from the seminiferous epithelium because this bioactive peptide was capable of perturbing the organization of both actin- and microtubule (MT)-based cytoskeletons at the Sertoli cell–cell and also Sertoli–spermatid interface, the ultrastructure known as the basal ectoplasmic specialization (ES) and apical ES, respectively. More importantly, recent studies have shown that this NC1-peptide-induced effects on cytoskeletal organization in the testis are mediated through an activation of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1/ribosomal protein S6/transforming retrovirus Akt1/2 protein (mTORC1/rpS6/Akt1/2) signaling cascade, involving an activation of cell division control protein 42 homolog (Cdc42) GTPase, but not Ras homolog family member A GTPase (RhoA), and the participation of end-binding protein 1 (EB1), a microtubule plus (+) end tracking protein (+TIP), downstream. Herein, we critically evaluate these findings, providing a critical discussion by which the basement membrane modulates spermatogenesis through one of its locally generated regulatory peptides in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Wen Liu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Hui-Tao Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
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21
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Wu S, Li H, Wang L, Mak N, Wu X, Ge R, Sun F, Cheng CY. Motor Proteins and Spermatogenesis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:131-159. [PMID: 34453735 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Unlike the intermediate filament- and septin-based cytoskeletons which are apolar structures, the microtubule (MT) and actin cytoskeletons are polarized structures in mammalian cells and tissues including the testis, most notable in Sertoli cells. In the testis, these cytoskeletons that stretch across the epithelium of seminiferous tubules and lay perpendicular to the basement membrane of tunica propria serve as tracks for corresponding motor proteins to support cellular cargo transport. These cargoes include residual bodies, phagosomes, endocytic vesicles and most notably developing spermatocytes and haploid spermatids which lack the ultrastructures of motile cells (e.g., lamellipodia, filopodia). As such, these developing germ cells require the corresponding motor proteins to facilitate their transport across the seminiferous epithelium during the epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis. Due to the polarized natures of these cytoskeletons with distinctive plus (+) and minus (-) end, directional cargo transport can take place based on the use of corresponding actin- or MT-based motor proteins. These include the MT-based minus (-) end directed motor proteins: dyneins, and the plus (+) end directed motor proteins: kinesins, as well as the actin-based motor proteins: myosins, many of which are plus (+) end directed but a few are also minus (-) end directed motor proteins. Recent studies have shown that these motor proteins are essential to support spermatogenesis. In this review, we briefly summarize and evaluate these recent findings so that this information will serve as a helpful guide for future studies and for planning functional experiments to better understand their role mechanistically in supporting spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwen Wu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA
| | - Huitao Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lingling Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA.,Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Nathan Mak
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital (SRRSH), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital (SRRSH), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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22
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Wang L, Yan M, Wu S, Mao B, Wong CKC, Ge R, Sun F, Cheng CY. Microtubule Cytoskeleton and Spermatogenesis-Lesson From Studies of Toxicant Models. Toxicol Sci 2020; 177:305-315. [PMID: 32647867 PMCID: PMC7548287 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfaa109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies have shown that mammalian testes, in particular the Sertoli cells, are highly susceptible to exposure of environmental toxicants, such as cadmium, perfluorooctanesulfonate, phthalates, 2,5-hexanedione and bisphenol A. However, important studies conducted by reproductive toxicologists and/or biologists in the past have been treated as toxicology reports per se. Yet, many of these studies provided important mechanistic insights on the toxicant-induced testis injury and reproductive dysfunction, relevant to the biology of the testis and spermatogenesis. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that findings obtained from toxicant models are exceedingly helpful tools to unravel the biology of testis function in particular spermatogenesis, including specific cellular events associated with spermatid transport to support spermiogenesis and spermiation. In this review, we critically evaluate some recent data, focusing primarily on the molecular structure and role of microtubules in cellular function, illustrating the importance of toxicant models to unravel the biology of microtubule cytoskeleton in supporting spermatogenesis, well beyond information on toxicology. These findings have opened up some potential areas of research which should be carefully evaluated in the years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Ming Yan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Siwen Wu
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Baiping Mao
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
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23
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Wang L, Yan M, Wu S, Wu X, Bu T, Wong CK, Ge R, Sun F, Cheng CY. Actin binding proteins, actin cytoskeleton and spermatogenesis – Lesson from toxicant models. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 96:76-89. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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24
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Chung SSW, Vizcarra N, Wolgemuth DJ. Filamentous actin disorganization and absence of apical ectoplasmic specialization disassembly during spermiation upon interference with retinoid signaling†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:378-389. [PMID: 32678439 PMCID: PMC7401411 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermiation is a multiple-step process involving profound cellular changes in both spermatids and Sertoli cells. We have observed spermiation defects, including abnormalities in spermatid orientation, translocation and release, in mice deficient in the retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARA) and upon treatment with a pan-RAR antagonist. To elucidate the role of retinoid signaling in regulating spermiation, we first characterized the time course of appearance of spermiogenic defects in response to treatment with the pan-RAR antagonist. The results revealed that defects in spermiation are indeed among the earliest abnormalities in spermatogenesis observed upon inhibition of retinoid signaling. Using fluorescent dye-conjugated phalloidin to label the ectoplasmic specialization (ES), we showed for the first time that these defects involved improper formation of filamentous actin (F-actin) bundles in step 8–9 spermatids and a failure of the actin-surrounded spermatids to move apically to the lumen and to disassemble the ES. The aberrant F-actin organization is associated with diminished nectin-3 expression in both RARA-deficient and pan-RAR antagonist-treated testes. An abnormal localization of both tyrosinated and detyrosinated tubulins was also observed during spermatid translocation in the seminiferous epithelium in drug-treated testes. These results highlight a crucial role of RAR receptor-mediated retinoid signaling in regulating microtubules and actin dynamics in the cytoskeleton rearrangements, required for proper spermiation. This is critical to understand in light of ongoing efforts to inhibit retinoid signaling as a novel approach for male contraception and may reveal spermiation components that could also be considered as new targets for male contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanny S W Chung
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nika Vizcarra
- The Institute of Human Nutrition Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Debra J Wolgemuth
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- The Institute of Human Nutrition Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Correspondence: Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center , Russ Berrie Pavilion, Room 608, 1150 St. Nicholas Avenue, New York, NY 10032, USA. Tel: (212) 851-4754; E-mail:
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25
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Teves ME, Roldan ERS, Krapf D, Strauss III JF, Bhagat V, Sapao P. Sperm Differentiation: The Role of Trafficking of Proteins. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3702. [PMID: 32456358 PMCID: PMC7279445 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm differentiation encompasses a complex sequence of morphological changes that takes place in the seminiferous epithelium. In this process, haploid round spermatids undergo substantial structural and functional alterations, resulting in highly polarized sperm. Hallmark changes during the differentiation process include the formation of new organelles, chromatin condensation and nuclear shaping, elimination of residual cytoplasm, and assembly of the sperm flagella. To achieve these transformations, spermatids have unique mechanisms for protein trafficking that operate in a coordinated fashion. Microtubules and filaments of actin are the main tracks used to facilitate the transport mechanisms, assisted by motor and non-motor proteins, for delivery of vesicular and non-vesicular cargos to specific sites. This review integrates recent findings regarding the role of protein trafficking in sperm differentiation. Although a complete characterization of the interactome of proteins involved in these temporal and spatial processes is not yet known, we propose a model based on the current literature as a framework for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E. Teves
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond VA 23298, USA;
| | - Eduardo R. S. Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), 28006-Madrid, Spain
| | - Diego Krapf
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
| | - Jerome F. Strauss III
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond VA 23298, USA;
| | - Virali Bhagat
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond VA 23298, USA;
| | - Paulene Sapao
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond VA, 23298, USA;
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26
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Chen H, Huang Y, Liu T, Haseeb A, Ahmed N, Zhang L, Bian X, Chen Q. Characteristics of seasonal spermatogenesis in the soft-shelled turtle. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 214:106307. [PMID: 32087920 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis in reptiles is a seasonally dependent physiological process that is not temporally associated with male mating behavior. Characteristics of seasonal spermatogenesis in reptiles, however, remain largely unknown. In this review, there is a coverage of the characteristics of soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis, during seasonal spermatogenesis that provides insights into spermatogenesis of testudines. The seminiferous epithelium of P. sinensis are undergoing spermatogenesis during the summer and fall, but are quiescent throughout the rest of the year; germ cells progress through spermatogenic stages in a temporal rather than a spatial pattern. While apoptotic germ cells mainly appear in the non-spermatogenic phase, these are seldom present during active spermatogenesis. It is inferred that apoptosis may be one of the reasons for germ cell loss during the resting phase of spermatogenesis. During the period when spermatogenesis is occurring, Sertoli cells become very narrow and are in contact with several round/elongated spermatids. Many residual spermatozoa can be internalized and degraded within Sertoli cells by entosis during the non-spermatogenic phase, which precedes the next reproductive cycle in P. sinensis. In the late spermatogenic phase, round-shaped mitochondria of spermatids become elongated and swollen, subsequently forming a crescent-like shape and develop into "onion-like" shaped mitochondria. As spermiogenesis progresses, the endoplasmic reticulum of spermatids is transferred into a specialized structure called the "Chrysanthemum flower center", which may be a source of autophagosomal membranes. The information provided in this review will help improve understanding of characteristics of seasonal spermatogenesis, which will hopefully promote interest in the study of reptilian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Yufei Huang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Tengfei Liu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Abdul Haseeb
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Nisar Ahmed
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Li Zhang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Xunguang Bian
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China.
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27
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Venditti M, Fasano C, Minucci S, Serino I, Sinisi AA, Dale B, Di Matteo L. DAAM1 and PREP are involved in human spermatogenesis. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 32:484-494. [DOI: 10.1071/rd19172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
During differentiation of the male gamete, there is a massive remodelling in the shape and architecture of all the cells in the seminiferous epithelium. The cytoskeleton, as well as many associated proteins, plays a pivotal role in this process. To better characterise the factors involved, we analysed two proteins: the formin, dishevelled-associated activator of morphogenesis 1 (DAAM1), which participates in the regulation of actin polymerisation, and the protease, prolyl endopeptidase (PREP), engaged in microtubule-associated processes. In our previous studies we demonstrated their involvement in cytoskeletal dynamics necessary for correct postnatal development of the rat testis. Here, we used samples of testicular tissue obtained from infertile men by testicular sperm extraction and the spermatozoa of asthenoteratozoospermic patients. By western blot and immunofluorescent analysis, we found that DAAM1 and PREP expression and localisation were impaired in both the testis and spermatozoa, and in particular in the midpiece as well as in the principal and end-pieces of the flagella, as compared with spermatozoa of normospermic men. Our results provide new knowledge of the dynamics of spermatogenesis, raising the possibility of using DAAM1 and PREP as new markers of normal fertility.
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28
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Luo S, Gao X, Ding J, Liu C, Du C, Hou C, Zhu J, Lou B. Transcriptome Sequencing Reveals the Traits of Spermatogenesis and Testicular Development in Large Yellow Croaker ( Larimichthys crocea). Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:E958. [PMID: 31766567 PMCID: PMC6947352 DOI: 10.3390/genes10120958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Larimichthys crocea is an economically important marine fish in China. To date, the molecular mechanisms underlying testicular development and spermatogenesis in L. crocea have not been thoroughly elucidated. In this study, we conducted a comparative transcriptome analysis between testes (TES) and pooled multiple tissues (PMT) (liver, spleen, heart, and kidney) from six male individuals. More than 54 million clean reads were yielded from TES and PMT libraries. After mapping to the draft genome of L. crocea, we acquired 25,787 genes from the transcriptome dataset. Expression analyses identified a total of 3853 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 2194 testes-biased genes (highly expressed in the TES) and 1659 somatic-biased genes (highly expressed in the PMT). The dataset was further annotated by blasting with multi-databases. Functional genes and enrichment pathways involved in spermatogenesis and testicular development were analyzed, such as the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathway, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways, cell cycle pathway, and dynein, kinesin, myosin, actin, heat shock protein (hsp), synaptonemal complex protein 2 (sycp2), doublesex- and mab-3-related transcription factor 1 (dmrt1), spermatogenesis-associated genes (spata), DEAD-Box Helicases (ddx), tudor domain-containing protein (tdrd), and piwi genes. The candidate genes identified by this study lay the foundation for further studies into the molecular mechanisms underlying testicular development and spermatogenesis in L. crocea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengyu Luo
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology by the Ministry of Education, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China; (S.L.); (X.G.); (J.D.); (C.L.); (C.D.); (C.H.)
| | - Xinming Gao
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology by the Ministry of Education, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China; (S.L.); (X.G.); (J.D.); (C.L.); (C.D.); (C.H.)
| | - Jie Ding
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology by the Ministry of Education, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China; (S.L.); (X.G.); (J.D.); (C.L.); (C.D.); (C.H.)
| | - Cheng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology by the Ministry of Education, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China; (S.L.); (X.G.); (J.D.); (C.L.); (C.D.); (C.H.)
| | - Chen Du
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology by the Ministry of Education, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China; (S.L.); (X.G.); (J.D.); (C.L.); (C.D.); (C.H.)
| | - Congcong Hou
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology by the Ministry of Education, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China; (S.L.); (X.G.); (J.D.); (C.L.); (C.D.); (C.H.)
| | - Junquan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology by the Ministry of Education, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China; (S.L.); (X.G.); (J.D.); (C.L.); (C.D.); (C.H.)
| | - Bao Lou
- Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China;
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29
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Lee AS, Rusch J, Lima AC, Usmani A, Huang N, Lepamets M, Vigh-Conrad KA, Worthington RE, Mägi R, Wu X, Aston KI, Atkinson JP, Carrell DT, Hess RA, O'Bryan MK, Conrad DF. Rare mutations in the complement regulatory gene CSMD1 are associated with male and female infertility. Nat Commun 2019; 10:4626. [PMID: 31604923 PMCID: PMC6789153 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-12522-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility in men and women is a complex genetic trait with shared biological bases between the sexes. Here, we perform a series of rare variant analyses across 73,185 women and men to identify genes that contribute to primary gonadal dysfunction. We report CSMD1, a complement regulatory protein on chromosome 8p23, as a strong candidate locus in both sexes. We show that CSMD1 is enriched at the germ-cell/somatic-cell interface in both male and female gonads. Csmd1-knockout males show increased rates of infertility with significantly increased complement C3 protein deposition in the testes, accompanied by severe histological degeneration. Knockout females show significant reduction in ovarian quality and breeding success, as well as mammary branching impairment. Double knockout of Csmd1 and C3 causes non-additive reduction in breeding success, suggesting that CSMD1 and the complement pathway play an important role in the normal postnatal development of the gonads in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur S Lee
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Jannette Rusch
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ana C Lima
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Abul Usmani
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ni Huang
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Maarja Lepamets
- Estonian Genome Center, University of Tartu, 51010, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Katinka A Vigh-Conrad
- Oregon National Primate Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Ronald E Worthington
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville, IL, 62025, USA
| | - Reedik Mägi
- Estonian Genome Center, University of Tartu, 51010, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Xiaobo Wu
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - John P Atkinson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Douglas T Carrell
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - Rex A Hess
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, 61802, USA
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- The School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia
| | - Donald F Conrad
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
- Oregon National Primate Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA.
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
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30
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Park HJ, Song H, Woo JS, Chung HJ, Park JK, Cho KH, Mo Yeo J, Lee WY. Expression patterns of male germ cell markers in cryptorchid pig testes. Acta Histochem 2019; 121:784-790. [PMID: 31324385 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2019.06.010] [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: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Male germ cell apoptosis has been described in heat-damaged testes by cryptorchidism. In the present study, wild type pig testes were compared with cryptorchid testes via histological and immunohistological analyses. Spermatozoa were not detected in two cryptorchid testes and the diameters of seminiferous tubules were significantly reduced in cryptorchid pig testes compared with wild type pig testes. Cells expressing marker genes for undifferentiated spermatogonia, such as protein gene product 9.5 was significantly decreased in cryptochid pig testes. In addition, the numbers of cells expressing DEAD-box polypeptide 4 (VASA), synaptonemal complex protein 3, protamine, and acrosin (a biomarker of spermatocyte, spermatid, and spermatozoa) were significantly reduced in cryptochid pig testes. However, the number of vimentin-expressing Sertoli cells was not changed or was significantly increased in cryptorchid pig testes. This result indicates that male germ cells are specifically damaged by heat in cryptorchid pig testes and not Sertoli cells. These findings will facilitate the further study of spermatogenesis and the specific mechanisms by which cryptorchidism causes male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Jung Park
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyuk Song
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Seok Woo
- Animal Biotechnology Division, National Institute of Animal Science, RDA, Jeonbuk 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Hak-Jae Chung
- Swine Science Division, National Institute of Animal Science, RDA, Cheoan-si 31000, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Ki Park
- Department of Swine & Poultry Science, Korea National College of Agriculture and Fisheries, Jeonbuk 54874, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Hyun Cho
- Department of Beef & Dairy Science, Korea National College of Agricultures and Fisheries, Jeonbuk 54874, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Mo Yeo
- Department of Beef & Dairy Science, Korea National College of Agricultures and Fisheries, Jeonbuk 54874, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Young Lee
- Department of Beef & Dairy Science, Korea National College of Agricultures and Fisheries, Jeonbuk 54874, Republic of Korea.
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Mao BP, Li L, Yan M, Ge R, Lian Q, Cheng CY. Regulation of BTB dynamics in spermatogenesis - insights from the adjudin toxicant model. Toxicol Sci 2019; 172:75-88. [PMID: 31397872 PMCID: PMC6813747 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfz180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
During spermatogenesis, cell organelles and germ cells, most notably haploid spermatids, are transported across the seminiferous epithelium so that fully developed spermatids line-up at the edge of the tubule lumen to undergo spermiation at stage VIII of the cycle. Studies have suggested that the microtubule (MT)-based cytoskeleton is necessary to support these cellular events. However, the regulatory molecule(s) and underlying mechanism(s) remain poorly understood. Herein, we sought to better understand this event by using an adjudin-based animal model. Adult rats were treated with adjudin at low-dose (10 mg/kg b.w.) which by itself had no notable effects on spermatogenesis. Rats were also treated with low-dose adjudin combined with overexpression of two endogenously produced blood-testis barrier (BTB) modifiers, namely rpS6 [ribosomal protein S6, the downstream signaling protein of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1)] and F5-peptide (a biological active peptide released from laminin-γ3 chain at the Sertoli-spermatid interface) versus the two BTB modifiers alone. Overexpression of these two BTB modifiers in the testis was shown to enhance delivery of adjudin to the testis, effectively inducing disruptive changes in MT cytoskeletons, causing truncation of MT conferred tracks that led to their collapse across the epithelium. The net result was massive germ cell exfoliation in the tubules, disrupting germ cell transport and cell adhesion across the seminiferous epithelium that led to aspermatogenesis. These changes were the result of disruptive spatial expression of several MT-based regulatory proteins. In summary, MT cytoskeleton supported by the network of MT regulatory proteins is crucial to maintain spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bai-Ping Mao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, New York
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, New York
| | - Ming Yan
- The Mary Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, New York
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qingquan Lian
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, New York
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Regulation of Blood-Testis Barrier (BTB) Dynamics, Role of Actin-, and Microtubule-Based Cytoskeletons. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 1748:229-243. [PMID: 29453575 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7698-0_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is an important ultrastructure in the testis that supports meiosis and postmeiotic spermatid development since a delay in the establishment of a functional Sertoli cell barrier during postnatal development in rats or mice by 17-20 day postpartum (dpp) would lead to a delay of the first wave of meiosis. Furthermore, irreversible disruption of the BTB by toxicants also induces infertility in rodents. Herein, we summarize recent findings that BTB dynamics (i.e., disassembly, reassembly, and stabilization) are supported by the concerted efforts of the actin- and microtubule (MT)-based cytoskeletons. We focus on the role of two actin nucleation protein complexes, namely, the Arp2/3 (actin-related protein 2/3) complex and formin 1 (or the formin 1/spire 1 complex) known to induce actin nucleation, respectively, by conferring plasticity to actin cytoskeleton. We also focus on the MT plus (+)-end tracking protein (+TIP) EB1 (end-binding protein 1) which is known to confer MT stabilization. Furthermore, we discuss in particular how the interactions of these proteins modulate BTB dynamics during spermatogenesis. These findings also yield a novel hypothetical concept regarding the molecular mechanism that modulates BTB function.
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Zagore LL, Akesson CC, Licatalosi DD. Efficient GFP-labeling and analysis of spermatogenic cells using the IRG transgene and flow cytometry. Genesis 2019; 57:e23283. [PMID: 30663216 PMCID: PMC6519249 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a highly ordered developmental program that produces haploid male germ cells. The study of male germ cell development in the mouse has provided unique perspectives into the molecular mechanisms that control cell development and differentiation in mammals, including tissue‐specific gene regulatory programs. An intrinsic challenge in spermatogenesis research is the heterogeneity of germ and somatic cell types present in the testis. Techniques to separate and isolate distinct mouse spermatogenic cell types have great potential to shed light on molecular mechanisms controlling mammalian cell development, while also providing new insights into cellular events important for human reproductive health. Here, we detail a versatile strategy that combines Cre‐lox technology to fluorescently label germ cells, with flow cytometry to discriminate and isolate germ cells in different stages of development for cellular and molecular analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah L Zagore
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Cydni C Akesson
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Donny D Licatalosi
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
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Effect of Electroacupuncture on Spermatogenesis in Rats with Oligozoospermia of Insufficiency of Shen (Kidney) Essence Syndrome. Chin J Integr Med 2018; 25:292-297. [DOI: 10.1007/s11655-018-2915-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Wen Q, Tang EI, Lui WY, Lee WM, Wong CKC, Silvestrini B, Cheng CY. Dynein 1 supports spermatid transport and spermiation during spermatogenesis in the rat testis. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2018; 315:E924-E948. [PMID: 30016153 PMCID: PMC6293164 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00114.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In the mammalian testis, spermatogenesis is dependent on the microtubule (MT)-specific motor proteins, such as dynein 1, that serve as the engine to support germ cell and organelle transport across the seminiferous epithelium at different stages of the epithelial cycle. Yet the underlying molecular mechanism(s) that support this series of cellular events remain unknown. Herein, we used RNAi to knockdown cytoplasmic dynein 1 heavy chain (Dync1h1) and an inhibitor ciliobrevin D to inactivate dynein in Sertoli cells in vitro and the testis in vivo, thereby probing the role of dynein 1 in spermatogenesis. Both treatments were shown to extensively induce disruption of MT organization across Sertoli cells in vitro and the testis in vivo. These changes also perturbed the transport of spermatids and other organelles (such as phagosomes) across the epithelium. These changes thus led to disruption of spermatogenesis. Interestingly, the knockdown of dynein 1 or its inactivation by ciliobrevin D also perturbed gross disruption of F-actin across the Sertoli cells in vitro and the seminiferous epithelium in vivo, illustrating there are cross talks between the two cytoskeletons in the testis. In summary, these findings confirm the role of cytoplasmic dynein 1 to support the transport of spermatids and organelles across the seminiferous epithelium during the epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Wen
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council , New York, New York
| | - Elizabeth I Tang
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council , New York, New York
| | - Wing-Yee Lui
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Will M Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council , New York, New York
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Venditti M, Minucci S. Subcellular Localization of Prolyl Endopeptidase During the First Wave of Rat Spermatogenesis and in Rat and Human Sperm. J Histochem Cytochem 2018; 67:229-243. [PMID: 30380361 DOI: 10.1369/0022155418810064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Prolyl endopeptidase (PREP) is an enzyme which cleaves several peptide hormones and neuropeptides on the carboxyl side of proline residues and is involved in many biological processes, including cell proliferation and differentiation, glucose metabolism, learning, memory, and cognitive disorders. PREP has also been identified as a binding partner of tubulin, suggesting the involvement of endopeptidase in microtubule-associate processes, independent of its peptidase activity. Furthermore, several reports have implied PREP participation in both male and female reproduction-associated mechanism. We herein assess a potential association of PREP to the morphogenesis of rat testis, profiling its localization versus tubulin, during the first wave of spermatogenesis and in the adult gonad (from 7 to 60 dpp). We show that, in mitotic phases, PREP shares its localization with tubulin in Sertoli cells, gonocytes, and spermatogonia. Later, during meiosis, both proteins are found in spermatocytes, and in the cytoplasm of Sertoli cells protrusions, surrounding the germ cells, while, during spermiogenesis, they both localize in the cytoplasm of round and elongating spermatids. We also found that this enzyme has a peculiar nuclear localization, in the proliferating cells in all phases of analysis. Finally, they are expressed in the flagellum of mature gametes, as corroborated by additional immunolocalization analysis on both rat and human sperm. Our data support the hypothesis of the fundamental role of PREP in reproduction and in cytoskeletal organization during mammalian testis morphogenesis and gamete progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate "F. Bottazzi," Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Napoli, Italy
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate "F. Bottazzi," Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Napoli, Italy
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Sarakul M, Elzo MA, Koonawootrittriron S, Suwanasopee T, Jattawa D, Laodim T. Characterization of biological pathways associated with semen traits in the Thai multibreed dairy population. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 197:324-334. [PMID: 30213568 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this research was to characterize biological pathways associated with semen volume (VOL), number of sperm (NS), and sperm motility (MOT) of dairy bulls in the Thai multibreed dairy population. Phenotypes for VOL (n = 13,535), NS (n = 12,773), and MOT (n = 12,660) came from 131 bulls of the Dairy Farming Promotion Organization of Thailand. Genotypic data consisted of 76,519 imputed and actual single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) from 72 animals. The SNP variances for VOL, NS, and MOT were estimated using a three-trait genomic-polygenic repeatability model. Fixed effects were contemporary group, ejaculate order, age of bull, ambient temperature, and heterosis. Random effects were animal additive genetic, permanent environmental, and residual. Individual SNP explaining at least 0.001% of the total genetic variance for each trait were selected to identify associated genes in the NCBI database (UMD Bos taurus 3.1 assembly) using the R package Map2NCBI. A set of 1,999 NCBI genes associated with all three semen traits was utilized for the pathway analysis conducted with the ClueGO plugin of Cytoscape using information from the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes database. The pathway analysis revealed seven significant biological pathways involving 127 genes that explained 1.04% of the genetic variance for VOL, NS, and MOT. These genes were known to affect cell structure, motility, migration, proliferation, differentiation, survival, apoptosis, signal transduction, oxytocin release, calcium channel, neural development, and immune system functions related to sperm morphology and physiology during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattaneeya Sarakul
- Department of Animal Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand
| | - Mauricio A Elzo
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611-0910, USA
| | | | | | - Danai Jattawa
- Department of Animal Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand
| | - Thawee Laodim
- Department of Animal Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand
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Ramaswamy S, Walker WH, Aliberti P, Sethi R, Marshall GR, Smith A, Nourashrafeddin S, Belgorosky A, Chandran UR, Hedger MP, Plant TM. The testicular transcriptome associated with spermatogonia differentiation initiated by gonadotrophin stimulation in the juvenile rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta). Hum Reprod 2018; 32:2088-2100. [PMID: 28938749 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the genetic landscape within the testis of the juvenile rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) that underlies the decision of undifferentiated spermatogonia to commit to a pathway of differentiation when puberty is induced prematurely by exogenous LH and FSH stimulation? SUMMARY ANSWER Forty-eight hours of gonadotrophin stimulation of the juvenile monkey testis resulted in the appearance of differentiating B spermatogonia and the emergence of 1362 up-regulated and 225 down-regulated testicular mRNAs encoding a complex network of proteins ranging from enzymes regulating Leydig cell steroidogenesis to membrane receptors, and from juxtacrine and paracrine factors to transcriptional factors governing spermatogonial stem cell fate. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Our understanding of the cell and molecular biology underlying the fate of undifferentiated spermatogonia is based largely on studies of rodents, particularly of mice, but in the case of primates very little is known. The present study represents the first attempt to comprehensively address this question in a highly evolved primate. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Global gene expression in the testis from juvenile rhesus monkeys that had been stimulated with recombinant monkey LH and FSH for 48 h (N = 3) or 96 h (N = 4) was compared to that from vehicle treated animals (N = 3). Testicular cell types and testosterone secretion were also monitored. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Precocious testicular puberty was initiated in juvenile rhesus monkeys, 14-24 months of age, using a physiologic mode of intermittent stimulation with i.v. recombinant monkey LH and FSH that within 48 h produced 'adult' levels of circulating LH, FSH and testosterone. Mitotic activity was monitored by immunohistochemical assays of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation. Animals were bilaterally castrated and RNA was extracted from the right testis. Global gene expression was determined using RNA-Seq. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and evaluated by pathway analysis. mRNAs of particular interest were also quantitated using quantitative RT-PCR. Fractions of the left testis were used for histochemistry or immunoflouresence. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Differentiating type B spematogonia were observed after both 48 and 96 h of gonadotrophin stimulation. Pathway analysis identified five super categories of over-represented DEGs. Repression of GFRA1 (glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor family receptor alpha 1) and NANOS2 (nanos C2HC-type zinc finger 2) that favor spermatogonial stem cell renewal was noted after 48 and 96 h of LH and FSH stimulation. Additionally, changes in expression of numerous genes involved in regulating the Notch pathway, cell adhesion, structural plasticity and modulating the immune system were observed. Induction of genes associated with the differentiation of spermatogonia stem cells (SOHLH1(spermatogenesis- and oogenesis-specific basic helix-loop-helix 1), SOHLH2 and KIT (V-Kit Hardy-Zuckerman 4 feline sarcoma viral oncogene homolog)) was not observed. Expression of the gene encoding STRA8 (stimulated by retinoic acid 8), a protein generally considered to mark activation of retinoic acid signaling, was below our limit of detection. LARGE SCALE DATA The entire mRNA data set for vehicle and gonadotrophin treated animals (N = 10) has been deposited in the GEO-NCBI repository (GSE97786). LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The limited number of monkeys per group and the dilution of low abundance germ cell transcripts by mRNAs contributed from somatic cells likely resulted in an underestimation of the number of differentially expressed germ cell genes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The findings that expression of GDNF (a major promoter of spermatogonial stem cell renewal) was not detected in the control juvenile testes, expression of SOHLH1, SOHLH2 and KIT, promoters of spermatogonial differentiation in mice, were not up-regulated in association with the gonadotrophin-induced generation of differentiating spermatogonia, and that robust activation of the retinoic acid signaling pathway was not observed, could not have been predicted. These unexpected results underline the importance of non-human primate models in translating data derived from animal research to the human situation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The work described was funded by NIH grant R01 HD072189 to T.M.P. P.A. was supported by an Endocrine Society Summer Research Fellowship Award and CONICET (Argentine Research Council), S.N. by a grant from Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center of Tehran University of Medical Sciences (grant #24335-39-92) to Dr Batool Hosseini Rashidi, and M.P.H. by grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia, and the Victorian State Government's Operational Infrastructure Support Program. The authors have nothing to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Ramaswamy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - William H Walker
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Paula Aliberti
- Endocrine Service, Hospital de Pediatría Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rahil Sethi
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, USA
| | - Gary R Marshall
- Department of Natural Sciences, Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Alyxzandria Smith
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Seyedmehdi Nourashrafeddin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Alicia Belgorosky
- Endocrine Service, Hospital de Pediatría Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Uma R Chandran
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, USA
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Tony M Plant
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Soda T, Miyagawa Y, Ueda N, Takezawa K, Okuda H, Fukuhara S, Fujita K, Kiuchi H, Uemura M, Okamoto Y, Tsujimura A, Tanaka H, Nonomura N. Systematic characterization of human testis-specific actin capping protein β3 as a possible biomarker for male infertility. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:514-522. [PMID: 28104696 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is actin capping protein (CP) β3 involved in human spermatogenesis and male infertility? SUMMARY ANSWER Human CPβ3 (hCPβ3) is expressed in testis, changes its localization dynamically during spermatogenesis, and has some association with male infertility. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The testis-specific α subunit of CP (CPα3) was previously identified in human, and mutations in the cpα3 gene in mouse were shown to induce malformation of the sperm head and male infertility. However, CPβ3, which is considered to be a heterodimeric counterpart of CPα3, has been neither characterized in human nor reported in association with male infertility. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION To confirm the existence of CPβ3 in human testis, fresh semen samples from proven fertile men were analyzed. To investigate protein expression during spermatogenesis, cryopreserved testis obtained from men with obstructive azoospermia were examined by immunofluorescent analysis. To assess the association of CP with male infertility, we compared protein expression of human CPα3 (hCPα3) and hCPβ3 using immunofluorescent analysis of cryopreserved sperm between men with normozoospermia (volunteers: Normo group, n = 20) and infertile men with oligozoospermia and/or asthenozoospermia (O + A group, n = 21). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The tissue-specific expression of hCPβ3 was investigated by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. To investigate whether hCPα3 and hCPβ3 form a heterodimer, a tandem expression vector containing hcpα3 tagged with monomeric red fluorescent protein 1 and hcpβ3 tagged with enhanced green fluorescent protein in a single plasmid was constructed and analyzed by co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assay. The protein expression profiles of hCPα3 and hCPβ3 during spermatogenesis were examined by immunohistochemical analysis using human spermatogenic cells. The protein expressions of hCPα3 and hCPβ3 in sperm were compared between the Normo and O + A groups by immunohistochemical analysis. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE RT-PCR showed that mRNA of hcpβ3 was expressed exclusively in testis. Western blot analysis detected hCPβ3 with anti-bovine CPβ3 antibody. Co-IP assay with recombinant protein showed that hCPα3 and hCPβ3 form a protein complex. At each step during spermatogenesis, the cellular localization of hCPβ3 changed dynamically. In spermatogonia, hCPβ3 showed a slight signal in cytoplasm. hCPβ3 expression was conspicuous mainly from spermatocytes, and hCPβ3 localization dynamically migrated from cytoplasm to the acrosomal cap and acrosome. In mature spermatozoa, hCPβ3 accumulated in the postacrosomal region and less so at the midpiece of the tail. Double-staining analysis revealed that hCPα3 localization was identical to hCPβ3 at every step in the spermatogenic cells. Most spermatozoa from the Normo group were stained homogenously by both hCPα3 and hCPβ3. In contrast, significantly more spermatozoa in the O + A versus Normo group showed heterogeneous or lack of staining for either hCPα3 or hCPβ3 (abnormal staining) (P < 0.001). The percentage of abnormal staining was higher in the O + A group (52.4 ± 3.0%) than in the Normo group (31.2 ± 2.5%). Even by confining the observations to morphologically normal spermatozoa selected in accordance with David's criteria, the percentage of abnormal staining was still higher in the O + A group (39.9 ± 2.9%) versus the Normo group (22.5 ± 2.1%) (P < 0.001). hCPβ3 in conjunction with hCPα3 seemed to play an important role in spermatogenesis and may be associated with male infertility. LARGE SCALE DATA Not applicable. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Owing to the difficulty of collecting fresh samples of human testis, we used cryopreserved samples from testicular sperm extraction. To examine the interaction of spermatogenic cells or localization in seminiferous tubules, fresh testis sample of healthy males are ideal. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The altered expression of hCPα3 and hCPβ3 may not only be a cause of male infertility but also a prognostic factor for the results of ART. They may be useful biomarkers to determine the fertilization ability of human sperm in ART. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by a Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (B) from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JP16K20133). The authors declare no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Soda
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Y Miyagawa
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - N Ueda
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - K Takezawa
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - H Okuda
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - S Fukuhara
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - K Fujita
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - H Kiuchi
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - M Uemura
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Y Okamoto
- Okamoto Clinic, Osaka 558-0004, Japan
| | - A Tsujimura
- Department of Urology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Urayasu 279-0021, Japan
| | - H Tanaka
- Molecular Biology laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagasaki International University, Sasebo, Nagasaki 859-3298, Japan
| | - N Nonomura
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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Wen Q, Li N, Xiao X, Lui WY, Chu DS, Wong CKC, Lian Q, Ge R, Lee WM, Silvestrini B, Cheng CY. Actin nucleator Spire 1 is a regulator of ectoplasmic specialization in the testis. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:208. [PMID: 29434191 PMCID: PMC5833730 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-017-0201-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Germ cell differentiation during the epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis is accompanied by extensive remodeling at the Sertoli cell-cell and Sertoli cell-spermatid interface to accommodate the transport of preleptotene spermatocytes and developing spermatids across the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and the adluminal compartment of the seminiferous epithelium, respectively. The unique cell junction in the testis is the actin-rich ectoplasmic specialization (ES) designated basal ES at the Sertoli cell-cell interface, and the apical ES at the Sertoli-spermatid interface. Since ES dynamics (i.e., disassembly, reassembly and stabilization) are supported by actin microfilaments, which rapidly converts between their bundled and unbundled/branched configuration to confer plasticity to the ES, it is logical to speculate that actin nucleation proteins play a crucial role to ES dynamics. Herein, we reported findings that Spire 1, an actin nucleator known to polymerize actins into long stretches of linear microfilaments in cells, is an important regulator of ES dynamics. Its knockdown by RNAi in Sertoli cells cultured in vitro was found to impede the Sertoli cell tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier through changes in the organization of F-actin across Sertoli cell cytosol. Unexpectedly, Spire 1 knockdown also perturbed microtubule (MT) organization in Sertoli cells cultured in vitro. Biochemical studies using cultured Sertoli cells and specific F-actin vs. MT polymerization assays supported the notion that a transient loss of Spire 1 by RNAi disrupted Sertoli cell actin and MT polymerization and bundling activities. These findings in vitro were reproduced in studies in vivo by RNAi using Spire 1-specific siRNA duplexes to transfect testes with Polyplus in vivo-jetPEI as a transfection medium with high transfection efficiency. Spire 1 knockdown in the testis led to gross disruption of F-actin and MT organization across the seminiferous epithelium, thereby impeding the transport of spermatids and phagosomes across the epithelium and perturbing spermatogenesis. In summary, Spire 1 is an ES regulator to support germ cell development during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Wen
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Nan Li
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Xiang Xiao
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wing-Yee Lui
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Darren S Chu
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qingquan Lian
- The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Will M Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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41
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Kumar A, Raut S, Balasinor NH. Endocrine regulation of sperm release. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:1595-1603. [DOI: 10.1071/rd18057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermiation (sperm release) is the culmination of a spermatid’s journey in the seminiferous epithelium. After a long association with the Sertoli cell, spermatids have to finally ‘let go’ of the support from Sertoli cells in order to be transported to the epididymis. Spermiation is a multistep process characterised by removal of excess spermatid cytoplasm, recycling of junctional adhesion molecules by endocytosis, extensive cytoskeletal remodelling and final spermatid disengagement. Successful execution of all these events requires coordinated regulation by endocrine and paracrine factors. This review focuses on the endocrine regulation of spermiation. With the aim of delineating how hormones control the various aspects of spermiation, this review provides an analysis of recent advances in research on the hormonal control of molecules associated with the spermiation machinery. Because spermiation is one of the most sensitive phases of spermatogenesis to variations in hormone levels, understanding their molecular control is imperative to advance our knowledge of the nuances of spermatogenesis and male fertility.
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42
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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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43
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Yin L, Wei H, Liang S, Yu X. From the Cover: An Animal-Free In Vitro Three-Dimensional Testicular Cell Coculture Model for Evaluating Male Reproductive Toxicants. Toxicol Sci 2017; 159:307-326. [PMID: 28962518 PMCID: PMC6074874 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfx139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary testicular cell coculture model has been used to evaluate testicular abnormalities during development, and was able to identify the testicular toxicity of phthalates. However, the primary testicular cell coculture model has disadvantages in employing animals for the isolation of testicular cells, and the complicated isolation procedure leads to inconsistent results. We developed an invitro testicular coculture model from rodent testicular cell lines, including spermatogonial cells, Sertoli cells, and Leydig cells with specified cell density and extracellular matrix (ECM) composition. Using comparative high-content analysis of F-actin cytoskeletal structure between the coculture and single cell culture models, we demonstrated a 3D structure of the coculture, which created an invivo-like niche, and maintained and supported germ cells within a 3D environment. We validated this model by discriminating between reproductive toxicants and nontoxicants among 32 compounds in comparison to the single cell culture models. Furthermore, we conducted a comparison between the invitro (IC50) and invivo reproductive toxicity testing (lowest observed adverse effect level on reproductive system). We found the invitro coculture model could classify the tested compounds into 4 clusters, and identify the most toxic reproductive substances, with high concordance, sensitivity, and specificity of 84%, 86.21%, and 100%, respectively. We observed a strong correlation of IC50 between the invitro coculture model and the invivo testing results. Our results suggest that this novel invitro coculture model may be useful for screening testicular toxicants and prioritize chemicals for further assessment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yin
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens 30602, Georgia
- ReproTox Biotech LLC, Athens 30602, Georgia
| | - Hongye Wei
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens 30602, Georgia
| | - Shenxuan Liang
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens 30602, Georgia
| | - Xiaozhong Yu
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens 30602, Georgia
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Carapito C, Duek P, Macron C, Seffals M, Rondel K, Delalande F, Lindskog C, Fréour T, Vandenbrouck Y, Lane L, Pineau C. Validating Missing Proteins in Human Sperm Cells by Targeted Mass-Spectrometry- and Antibody-based Methods. J Proteome Res 2017; 16:4340-4351. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.7b00374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Carapito
- Laboratoire
de Spectrométrie de Masse BioOrganique (LSMBO), IPHC, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS UMR7178, 25 Rue Becquerel, Strasbourg F-67087, France
| | - Paula Duek
- CALIPHO
Group, SIB-Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, CMU, rue Michel-Servet
1, CH-1211 Geneva
4, Switzerland
| | - Charlotte Macron
- Laboratoire
de Spectrométrie de Masse BioOrganique (LSMBO), IPHC, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS UMR7178, 25 Rue Becquerel, Strasbourg F-67087, France
| | - Marine Seffals
- H2P2
Core facility, UMS BioSit, University of Rennes 1, Rennes F-35040, France
| | - Karine Rondel
- Protim,
Inserm U1085, Irset, Campus de Beaulieu, Rennes F-35042, France
| | - François Delalande
- Laboratoire
de Spectrométrie de Masse BioOrganique (LSMBO), IPHC, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS UMR7178, 25 Rue Becquerel, Strasbourg F-67087, France
| | - Cecilia Lindskog
- Department
of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Thomas Fréour
- Service de
Médecine de la Reproduction, CHU de Nantes, 38 boulevard
Jean Monnet, Nantes F-44093, France
- Inserm UMR1064, Nantes F-44093, France
| | - Yves Vandenbrouck
- CEA, DRF, BIG,
Laboratoire de Biologie à Grande Echelle, 17, rue des Martyrs, Grenoble F-38054, France
- Inserm U1038, Grenoble F-38054, France
- Grenoble-Alpes University, Grenoble F-38054, France
| | - Lydie Lane
- CALIPHO
Group, SIB-Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, CMU, rue Michel-Servet
1, CH-1211 Geneva
4, Switzerland
- Department
of Human Protein Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1, rue Michel-Servet, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Charles Pineau
- Protim,
Inserm U1085, Irset, Campus de Beaulieu, Rennes F-35042, France
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Hannigan MM, Zagore LL, Licatalosi DD. Ptbp2 Controls an Alternative Splicing Network Required for Cell Communication during Spermatogenesis. Cell Rep 2017; 19:2598-2612. [PMID: 28636946 PMCID: PMC5543815 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.05.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing has essential roles in development. Remarkably, spermatogenic cells express more alternatively spliced RNAs compared to most whole tissues; however, regulation of these RNAs remains unclear. Here, we characterize the alternative splicing landscape during spermatogenesis and reveal an essential function for the RNA-binding protein Ptbp2 in this highly regulated developmental program. We found that Ptbp2 controls a network of genes involved in cell adhesion, migration, and polarity, suggesting that splicing regulation by Ptbp2 is critical for germ cell communication with Sertoli cells (multifunctional somatic cells necessary for spermatogenesis). Indeed, Ptbp2 ablation in germ cells resulted in disorganization of the filamentous actin (F-actin) cytoskeleton in Sertoli cells, indicating that alternative splicing regulation is necessary for cellular crosstalk during germ cell development. Collectively, the data delineate an alternative splicing regulatory network essential for spermatogenesis, the splicing factor that controls it, and its biological importance in germ-Sertoli communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly M Hannigan
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Leah L Zagore
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Donny D Licatalosi
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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46
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Krishna S, Overholtzer M. Germ Cells Get by with a Little Cannibalistic Help from Their Friends. Dev Cell 2016; 39:631-633. [PMID: 27997820 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
During development, primordial germ cells (PGCs) navigate a complex journey to generate the germline. In a recent paper in Nature Cell Biology, Nance and colleagues (Abdu et al., 2016) have discovered an unexpected step along the way: PGCs get cut in half by endodermal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shefali Krishna
- Cell Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; Louis V. Gerstner Jr. Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Michael Overholtzer
- Cell Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; Louis V. Gerstner Jr. Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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47
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Wen Q, Tang EI, Xiao X, Gao Y, Chu DS, Mruk DD, Silvestrini B, Cheng CY. Transport of germ cells across the seminiferous epithelium during spermatogenesis-the involvement of both actin- and microtubule-based cytoskeletons. Tissue Barriers 2016; 4:e1265042. [PMID: 28123928 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2016.1265042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Revised: 11/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The transport of germ cells from the base of the seminiferous epithelium toward the luminal edge of the tubule lumen in the adluminal compartment during the epithelial cycle is an essential cellular event to support spermatogenesis. Thus, fully developed elongated spermatids (i.e., spermatozoa) can be released at spermiation in late stage VIII in rodents versus late stage II in humans. Earlier studies to examine the molecular mechanism(s) that support germ cell transport, most notably the transport of preleptotene spermatocytes across the blood-testis barrier (BTB), and the transport of elongating spermatids across the adluminal compartment during spermiogenesis, is focused on the adhesion protein complexes at the cell-cell interface. It is generally accepted that cell junctions at the Sertoli cell-cell interface at the BTB, including the actin-based tight junction (TJ), basal ectoplasmic specialization (basal ES, a testis-specific adherens junction) and gap junction (GJ), as well as the intermediate filament-based desmosome undergo constant remodeling to accommodate the transport of preleptotene spermatocytes across the barrier. On the other hand, similar junction dynamics (i.e., disassembly, reassembly and stabilization/maintenance) take place at the Sertoli-spermatid interface. Emerging evidence has shown that junction dynamics at the Sertoli cell-cell vs. Sertoli-germ cell interface are supported by the 2 intriguingly coordinated cytoskeletons, namely the F-actin- and microtubule (MT)-based cytoskeletons. Herein, we provide a brief summary and critically evaluate the recent findings. We also provide an updated hypothetical concept regarding germ cell transport in the testis utilizing the MT-conferred tracks and the MT-specific motor proteins. Furthermore, this cellular event is also supported by the F-actin-based cytoskeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Wen
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council , New York, NY, USA
| | - Elizabeth I Tang
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council , New York, NY, USA
| | - Xiang Xiao
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA; Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ying Gao
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council , New York, NY, USA
| | - Darren S Chu
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council , New York, NY, USA
| | - Dolores D Mruk
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council , New York, NY, USA
| | | | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council , New York, NY, USA
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48
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Jenardhanan P, Panneerselvam M, Mathur PP. Effect of environmental contaminants on spermatogenesis. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 59:126-140. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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49
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Triptolide disrupts the actin-based Sertoli-germ cells adherens junctions by inhibiting Rho GTPases expression. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2016; 310:32-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2016.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Revised: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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50
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Li N, Mruk DD, Tang EI, Lee WM, Wong CKC, Cheng CY. Formin 1 Regulates Microtubule and F-Actin Organization to Support Spermatid Transport During Spermatogenesis in the Rat Testis. Endocrinology 2016; 157:2894-908. [PMID: 27145014 PMCID: PMC4929546 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Formin 1 confers actin nucleation by generating long stretches of actin microfilaments to support cell movement, cell shape, and intracellular protein trafficking. Formin 1 is likely involved in microtubule (MT) dynamics due to the presence of a MT binding domain near its N terminus. Here, formin 1 was shown to structurally interact with α-tubulin, the building block of MT, and also end-binding protein 1 (a MT plus [+]-end-binding protein that stabilizes MT) in the testis. Knockdown of formin 1 in Sertoli cells with an established tight junction barrier was found to induce down-regulation of detyrosinated MT (a stabilized form of MT), and disorganization of MTs, in which MTs were retracted from the cell cortical zone, mediated through a loss of MT polymerization and down-regulation of Akt1/2 signaling kinase. An efficient knockdown of formin 1 in the testis reduced the number of track-like structures conferred by MTs and F-actin considerably, causing defects in spermatid and phagosome transport across the seminiferous epithelium. In summary, formin1 maintains MT and F-actin track-like structures to support spermatid and phagosome transport across the seminiferous epithelium during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Li
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research (N.L., D.D.M., E.I.T., C.Y.C.), Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065-6307; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography (N.L.), Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; School of Biological Sciences (W.M.L.), University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; and Department of Biology (C.K.C.W.), Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dolores D Mruk
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research (N.L., D.D.M., E.I.T., C.Y.C.), Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065-6307; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography (N.L.), Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; School of Biological Sciences (W.M.L.), University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; and Department of Biology (C.K.C.W.), Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Elizabeth I Tang
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research (N.L., D.D.M., E.I.T., C.Y.C.), Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065-6307; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography (N.L.), Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; School of Biological Sciences (W.M.L.), University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; and Department of Biology (C.K.C.W.), Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Will M Lee
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research (N.L., D.D.M., E.I.T., C.Y.C.), Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065-6307; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography (N.L.), Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; School of Biological Sciences (W.M.L.), University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; and Department of Biology (C.K.C.W.), Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research (N.L., D.D.M., E.I.T., C.Y.C.), Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065-6307; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography (N.L.), Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; School of Biological Sciences (W.M.L.), University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; and Department of Biology (C.K.C.W.), Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research (N.L., D.D.M., E.I.T., C.Y.C.), Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065-6307; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography (N.L.), Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; School of Biological Sciences (W.M.L.), University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; and Department of Biology (C.K.C.W.), Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
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