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Zou D, Li K, Su L, Liu J, Lu Y, Huang R, Li M, Mang X, Geng Q, Li P, Tang J, Yu Z, Zhang Z, Chen D, Miao S, Yu J, Yan W, Song W. DDX20 is required for cell-cycle reentry of prospermatogonia and establishment of spermatogonial stem cell pool during testicular development in mice. Dev Cell 2024; 59:1707-1723.e8. [PMID: 38657611 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), as key regulators of mRNA fate, are abundantly expressed in the testis. However, RBPs associated with human male infertility remain largely unknown. Through bioinformatic analyses, we identified 62 such RBPs, including an evolutionarily conserved RBP, DEAD-box helicase 20 (DDX20). Male germ-cell-specific inactivation of Ddx20 at E15.5 caused T1-propsermatogonia (T1-ProSG) to fail to reenter cell cycle during the first week of testicular development in mice. Consequently, neither the foundational spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) pool nor progenitor spermatogonia were ever formed in the knockout testes. Mechanistically, DDX20 functions to control the translation of its target mRNAs, many of which encode cell-cycle-related regulators, by interacting with key components of the translational machinery in prospermatogonia. Our data demonstrate a previously unreported function of DDX20 as a translational regulator of critical cell-cycle-related genes, which is essential for cell-cycle reentry of T1-ProSG and formation of the SSC pool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingfeng Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Kai Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Luying Su
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Rong Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Mengzhen Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Xinyu Mang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Qi Geng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Pengyu Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Jielin Tang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Zhixin Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Zexuan Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Dingyao Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Shiying Miao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Jia Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China; The Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu 610052, China.
| | - Wei Yan
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA; Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China.
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Guo W, Zhang Z, Kang J, Gao Y, Qian P, Xie G. Single-cell transcriptome profiling highlights the importance of telocyte, kallikrein genes, and alternative splicing in mouse testes aging. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14795. [PMID: 38926537 PMCID: PMC11208613 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65710-0] [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: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Advancing healthcare for elderly men requires a deeper understanding of testicular aging processes. In this study, we conducted transcriptomic profiling of 43,323 testicular single cells from young and old mice, shedding light on 1032 telocytes-an underexplored testicular cell type in previous research. Our study unveiled 916 age-related differentially expressed genes (age-DEGs), with telocytes emerging as the cell type harboring the highest count of age-DEGs. Of particular interest, four genes (Klk1b21, Klk1b22, Klk1b24, Klk1b27) from the Kallikrein family, specifically expressed in Leydig cells, displayed down-regulation in aged testes. Moreover, cell-type-level splicing analyses unveiled 1838 age-related alternative splicing (AS) events. While we confirmed the presence of more age-DEGs in somatic cells compared to germ cells, unexpectedly, more age-related AS events were identified in germ cells. Further experimental validation highlighted 4930555F03Rik, a non-coding RNA gene exhibiting significant age-related AS changes. Our study represents the first age-related single-cell transcriptomic investigation of testicular telocytes and Kallikrein genes in Leydig cells, as well as the first delineation of cell-type-level AS dynamics during testicular aging in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wuyier Guo
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Qixiu Road 19, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Ziyan Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Qixiu Road 19, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Jiahui Kang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Qixiu Road 19, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Yajing Gao
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Qixiu Road 19, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Peipei Qian
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Qixiu Road 19, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Gangcai Xie
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Qixiu Road 19, Nantong, 226001, China.
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Li K, Li M, Luo Y, Zou D, Li Y, Mang X, Zhang Z, Li P, Lu Y, Miao S, Song W. Adeno-associated-virus-mediated delivery of CRISPR-CasRx induces efficient RNA knockdown in the mouse testis. Theranostics 2024; 14:3827-3842. [PMID: 38994027 PMCID: PMC11234267 DOI: 10.7150/thno.95633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Rationale: In male mammals, many developmental-stage-specific RNA transcripts (both coding and noncoding) are preferentially or exclusively expressed in the testis, where they play important roles in spermatogenesis and male fertility. However, a reliable platform for efficiently depleting various types of RNA transcripts to study their biological functions during spermatogenesis in vivo has not been developed. Methods: We used an adeno-associated virus serotype nine (AAV9)-mediated CRISPR-CasRx system to knock down the expression of exogenous and endogenous RNA transcripts in the testis. Virus particles were injected into the seminiferous tubules via the efferent duct. Using an autophagy inhibitor, 3-methyladenine (3-MA), we optimized the AAV9 transduction efficiency in germ cells in vivo. Results: AAV9-mediated delivery of CRISPR-CasRx effectively and specifically induces RNA transcripts (both coding and noncoding) knockdown in the testis in vivo. In addition, we showed that the co-microinjection of AAV9 and 3-MA into the seminiferous tubules enabled long-term transgene expression in the testis. Finally, we found that a promoter of Sycp1 gene induced CRISPR-CasRx-mediated RNA transcript knockdown in a germ-cell-type-specific manner. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate the efficacy and versatility of the AAV9-mediated CRISPR-CasRx system as a flexible knockdown platform for studying gene function during spermatogenesis in vivo. This approach may advance the development of RNA-targeting therapies for conditions affecting reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Mengzhen Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Yanyun Luo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Dingfeng Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Yahui Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Xinyu Mang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Zexuan Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Pengyu Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Shiying Miao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
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Dai P, Ma C, Chen C, Liang M, Dong S, Chen H, Zhang X. Unlocking Genetic Mysteries during the Epic Sperm Journey toward Fertilization: Further Expanding Cre Mouse Lines. Biomolecules 2024; 14:529. [PMID: 38785936 PMCID: PMC11117649 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050529] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The spatiotemporal expression patterns of genes are crucial for maintaining normal physiological functions in animals. Conditional gene knockout using the cyclization recombination enzyme (Cre)/locus of crossover of P1 (Cre/LoxP) strategy has been extensively employed for functional assays at specific tissue or developmental stages. This approach aids in uncovering the associations between phenotypes and gene regulation while minimizing interference among distinct tissues. Various Cre-engineered mouse models have been utilized in the male reproductive system, including Dppa3-MERCre for primordial germ cells, Ddx4-Cre and Stra8-Cre for spermatogonia, Prm1-Cre and Acrv1-iCre for haploid spermatids, Cyp17a1-iCre for the Leydig cell, Sox9-Cre for the Sertoli cell, and Lcn5/8/9-Cre for differentiated segments of the epididymis. Notably, the specificity and functioning stage of Cre recombinases vary, and the efficiency of recombination driven by Cre depends on endogenous promoters with different sequences as well as the constructed Cre vectors, even when controlled by an identical promoter. Cre mouse models generated via traditional recombination or CRISPR/Cas9 also exhibit distinct knockout properties. This review focuses on Cre-engineered mouse models applied to the male reproductive system, including Cre-targeting strategies, mouse model screening, and practical challenges encountered, particularly with novel mouse strains over the past decade. It aims to provide valuable references for studies conducted on the male reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xiaoning Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (P.D.); (C.M.); (C.C.); (M.L.); (S.D.); (H.C.)
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Romeo-Cardeillac C, Trovero MF, Radío S, Smircich P, Rodríguez-Casuriaga R, Geisinger A, Sotelo-Silveira J. Uncovering a multitude of stage-specific splice variants and putative protein isoforms generated along mouse spermatogenesis. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:295. [PMID: 38509455 PMCID: PMC10953240 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10170-z] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mammalian testis is a highly complex and heterogeneous tissue. This complexity, which mostly derives from spermatogenic cells, is reflected at the transcriptional level, with the largest number of tissue-specific genes and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) compared to other tissues, and one of the highest rates of alternative splicing. Although it is known that adequate alternative-splicing patterns and stage-specific isoforms are critical for successful spermatogenesis, so far only a very limited number of reports have addressed a detailed study of alternative splicing and isoforms along the different spermatogenic stages. RESULTS In the present work, using highly purified stage-specific testicular cell populations, we detected 33,002 transcripts expressed throughout mouse spermatogenesis not annotated so far. These include both splice variants of already annotated genes, and of hitherto unannotated genes. Using conservative criteria, we uncovered 13,471 spermatogenic lncRNAs, which reflects the still incomplete annotation of lncRNAs. A distinctive feature of lncRNAs was their lower number of splice variants compared to protein-coding ones, adding to the conclusion that lncRNAs are, in general, less complex than mRNAs. Besides, we identified 2,794 unannotated transcripts with high coding potential (including some arising from yet unannotated genes), many of which encode unnoticed putative testis-specific proteins. Some of the most interesting coding splice variants were chosen, and validated through RT-PCR. Remarkably, the largest number of stage-specific unannotated transcripts are expressed during early meiotic prophase stages, whose study has been scarcely addressed in former transcriptomic analyses. CONCLUSIONS We detected a high number of yet unannotated genes and alternatively spliced transcripts along mouse spermatogenesis, hence showing that the transcriptomic diversity of the testis is considerably higher than previously reported. This is especially prominent for specific, underrepresented stages such as those of early meiotic prophase, and its unveiling may constitute a step towards the understanding of their key events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Romeo-Cardeillac
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Reproduction, Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable (IIBCE), 11,600, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Department of Genomics, IIBCE, 11,600, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - María Fernanda Trovero
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Reproduction, Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable (IIBCE), 11,600, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Santiago Radío
- Department of Genomics, IIBCE, 11,600, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Pablo Smircich
- Department of Genomics, IIBCE, 11,600, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Rosana Rodríguez-Casuriaga
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Reproduction, Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable (IIBCE), 11,600, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Adriana Geisinger
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Reproduction, Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable (IIBCE), 11,600, Montevideo, Uruguay.
- Biochemistry-Molecular Biology, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República (UdelaR), 11,400, Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - José Sotelo-Silveira
- Department of Genomics, IIBCE, 11,600, Montevideo, Uruguay.
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Facultad de Ciencias, UdelaR, 11,400, Montevideo, Uruguay.
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Qi J, Shi L, Zhu L, Chen Y, Zhu H, Cheng W, Chen AF, Fu C. Functions, Mechanisms, and therapeutic applications of the inositol pyrophosphates 5PP-InsP 5 and InsP 8 in mammalian cells. J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2024; 17:197-215. [PMID: 37615888 DOI: 10.1007/s12265-023-10427-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Water-soluble myo-inositol phosphates have long been characterized as second messengers. The signaling properties of these compounds are determined by the number and arrangement of phosphate groups on the myo-inositol backbone. Recently, higher inositol phosphates with pyrophosphate groups were recognized as signaling molecules. 5-Diphosphoinositol 1,2,3,4,6-pentakisphosphate (5PP-InsP5) is the most abundant isoform, constituting more than 90% of intracellular inositol pyrophosphates. 5PP-InsP5 can be further phosphorylated to 1,5-bisdiphosphoinositol 2,3,4,6-tetrakisphosphate (InsP8). These two molecules, 5PP-InsP5 and InsP8, are present in various subcellular compartments, where they participate in regulating diverse cellular processes such as cell death, energy homeostasis, and cytoskeletal dynamics. The synthesis and metabolism of inositol pyrophosphates are subjected to tight regulation, allowing for their highly specific functions. Blocking the 5PP-InsP5/InsP8 signaling pathway by inhibiting the biosynthesis of 5PP-InsP5 demonstrates therapeutic benefits in preclinical studies, and thus holds promise as a therapeutic approach for certain diseases treatment, such as metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Qi
- Institute for Developmental and Regenerative Cardiovascular Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Linhui Shi
- Department of Critical Care Unit, Ningbo Medical Center Li Huili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Limei Zhu
- Department of Trauma Orthopedics, Ningbo No.6 Hospital, Ningbo, 315040, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- Institute for Developmental and Regenerative Cardiovascular Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Hong Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Weiwei Cheng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Alex F Chen
- Institute for Developmental and Regenerative Cardiovascular Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Chenglai Fu
- Institute for Developmental and Regenerative Cardiovascular Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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Sato J, Satoh Y, Yamamoto T, Watanabe T, Matsubara S, Satake H, Kimura AP. PTBP2 binds to a testis-specific long noncoding RNA, Tesra, and activates transcription of the Prss42/Tessp-2 gene. Gene 2024; 893:147907. [PMID: 37858745 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147907] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently been proved to be functional in the testis. Tesra, a testis-specific lncRNA, was suggested to activate the transcription of Prss42/Tessp-2, a gene that is involved in meiotic progression, in mouse spermatocytes. To reveal the molecular mechanism underlying the activation, we searched for Tesra-binding proteins by a Ribotrap assay followed by LC-MS/MS analysis and identified polypyrimidine tract binding protein 2 (PTBP2) as a candidate. Analysis of public RNA-seq data and our qRT-PCR results indicated that Ptbp2 mRNA showed an expression pattern similar to the expression patterns of Tesra and Prss42/Tessp-2 during testis development. Moreover, PTBP2 was found to be associated with Tesra in testicular germ cells by RNA immunoprecipitation. To evaluate the effect of PTBP2 on the Prss42/Tessp-2 promoter, we established an in vitro reporter gene assay system in which Tesra expression could be induced by the Tet-on system and thereby Prss42/Tessp-2 promoter activity could be increased. In this system, the Prss42/Tessp-2 promoter activity was significantly decreased by the knockdown of PTBP2. These results suggest that PTBP2 contributes to Prss42/Tessp-2 transcriptional activation by Tesra in spermatocytes. The finding provides a precious example of a molecular mechanism of testis lncRNA functioning in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josei Sato
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yui Satoh
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takehiro Yamamoto
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takehiro Watanabe
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shin Matsubara
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Honoo Satake
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Atsushi P Kimura
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
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8
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Hashemi Karoii D, Azizi H. Functions and mechanism of noncoding RNA in regulation and differentiation of male mammalian reproduction. Cell Biochem Funct 2023; 41:767-778. [PMID: 37583312 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3838] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are active regulators of a wide range of biological and physiological processes, including the majority of mammalian reproductive events. Knowledge of the biological activities of ncRNAs in the context of mammalian reproduction will allow for a more comprehensive and comparative understanding of male sterility and fertility. In this review, we describe recent advances in ncRNA-mediated control of mammalian reproduction and emphasize the importance of ncRNAs in several aspects of mammalian reproduction, such as germ cell biogenesis and reproductive organ activity. Furthermore, we focus on gene expression regulatory feedback loops including hormones and ncRNA expression to better understand germ cell commitment and reproductive organ function. Finally, this study shows the role of ncRNAs in male reproductive failure and provides suggestions for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danial Hashemi Karoii
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
| | - Hossein Azizi
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
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9
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Li Y, Zhai H, Tong L, Wang C, Xie Z, Zheng K. LncRNA Functional Screening in Organismal Development. Noncoding RNA 2023; 9:36. [PMID: 37489456 PMCID: PMC10366883 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna9040036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Controversy continues over the functional prevalence of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) despite their being widely investigated in all kinds of cells and organisms. In animals, lncRNAs have aroused general interest from exponentially increasing transcriptomic repertoires reporting their highly tissue-specific and developmentally dynamic expression, and more importantly, from growing experimental evidence supporting their functionality in facilitating organogenesis and individual fitness. In mammalian testes, while a great multitude of lncRNA species are identified, only a minority of them have been shown to be useful, and even fewer have been demonstrated as true requirements for male fertility using knockout models to date. This noticeable gap is attributed to the virtual existence of a large number of junk lncRNAs, the lack of an ideal germline culture system, difficulty in loss-of-function interrogation, and limited screening strategies. Facing these challenges, in this review, we discuss lncRNA functionality in organismal development and especially in mouse testis, with a focus on lncRNAs with functional screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Huicong Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Lingxiu Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Cuicui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Zhiming Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Ke Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
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Wang T, Zhao G, Yu S, Zheng Y, Guo H, Wang H, Zhao P, Xie W, Ren W, Yuan B. Sequencing of the Pituitary Transcriptome after GnRH Treatment Uncovers the Involvement of lncRNA-m23b/miR-23b-3p/CAMK2D in FSH Synthesis and Secretion. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14040846. [PMID: 37107604 PMCID: PMC10137480 DOI: 10.3390/genes14040846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The pituitary gland is a key participant in the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, as it secretes a variety of hormones and plays an important role in mammalian reproduction. Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone(GnRH) signaling molecules can bind to GnRH receptors on the surfaces of adenohypophysis gonadotropin cells and regulate the expression of follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH) and luteinizing hormone(LH) through various pathways. An increasing number of studies have shown that noncoding RNAs mediate the regulation of GnRH signaling molecules in the adenohypophysis. However, the expression changes and underlying mechanisms of genes and noncoding RNAs in the adenohypophysis under the action of GnRH remain unclear. In the present study, we performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of the rat adenohypophysis before and after GnRH treatment to identify differentially expressed mRNAs, lncRNAs, and miRNAs. We found 385 mRNAs, 704 lncRNAs, and 20 miRNAs that were significantly differentially expressed in the rat adenohypophysis. Then, we used a software to predict the regulatory roles of lncRNAs as molecular sponges that compete with mRNAs to bind miRNAs, and construct a GnRH-mediated ceRNA regulatory network. Finally, we enriched the differentially expressed mRNAs, lncRNA target genes, and ceRNA regulatory networks to analyze their potential roles. Based on the sequencing results, we verified that GnRH could affect FSH synthesis and secretion by promoting the competitive binding of lncRNA-m23b to miR-23b-3p to regulate the expression of Calcium/Calmodulin Dependent Protein Kinase II Delta(CAMK2D). Our findings provide strong data to support exploration of the physiological processes in the rat adenohypophysis under the action of GnRH. Furthermore, our profile of lncRNA expression in the rat adenohypophysis provides a theoretical basis for research on the roles of lncRNAs in the adenohypophysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Wang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Guokun Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Song Yu
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Yi Zheng
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Haixiang Guo
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Haoqi Wang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Peisen Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Wenyin Xie
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Wenzhi Ren
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
- Correspondence: (W.R.); (B.Y.); Tel.: +86-431-8783-6562 (W.R.); +86-431-8783-6536 (B.Y.)
| | - Bao Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
- Correspondence: (W.R.); (B.Y.); Tel.: +86-431-8783-6562 (W.R.); +86-431-8783-6536 (B.Y.)
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11
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Wang Y, Zhang L, Kong R, Hu C, Zhao Z, Wu Y, Zuo Q, Li B, Zhang YN. Jun-mediated lncRNA-IMS promotes the meiosis of chicken spermatogonial stem cells via gga-miR-31-5p/stra8. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:275-286. [PMID: 36966461 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023]
Abstract
Meiosis, a key step in spermatogenesis, is affected by many factors. Current studies have shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are potential factors regulating meiosis, and their regulatory mechanisms have received much attention. However, little research has been done on its regulatory mechanism in the spermatogenesis of roosters. Here, we found that lncRNA involved in meiosis and spermatogenesis (lncRNA-IMS) was involved in the regulation of Stra8 by gga-miR-31-5p and hindered the inhibition of Stra8 by gga-miR-31-5p. The acquisition and loss of function experiments demonstrated that lncRNA-IMS was involved in meiosis and spermatogenesis. In addition, we predicted and determined the core promoter region of lncRNA-IMS. Prediction of transcription factors, deletion/overexpression of binding sites, knockdown/overexpression of Jun, and dual-luciferase reporter analysis confirmed that Jun positively activated transcription of lncRNA-IMS. Our findings further enrich the TF-lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network during male meiosis and provide new ideas for studying the molecular mechanism of meiosis and spermatogenesis in chicken spermatogonial stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjie Wang
- College of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Animal Science College, Jiangsu Agri-animal Husbandry Vocational College, Taizhou, Jiangsu province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruihong Kong
- College of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Cai Hu
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zongyi Zhao
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhui Wu
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qisheng Zuo
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Bichun Li
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya-Ni Zhang
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou Province, People's Republic of China
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12
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Wang P, Zhang X, Huo H, Li W, Liu Z, Wang L, Li L, Sun YH, Huo J. Transcriptomic analysis of testis and epididymis tissues from Banna mini-pig inbred line boars with single-molecule long-read sequencing†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:465-478. [PMID: 36477198 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac216] [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: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, testis and epididymis are critical components of the male reproductive system for androgen production, spermatogenesis, sperm transportation, as well as sperm maturation. Here, we report single-molecule real-time sequencing data from the testis and epididymis of the Banna mini-pig inbred line (BMI), a promising laboratory animal for medical research. We obtained high-quality full-length transcriptomes and identified 9879 isoforms and 8761 isoforms in the BMI testis and epididymis, respectively. Most of the isoforms we identified have novel exon structures that will greatly improve the annotation of testis- and epididymis-expressed genes in pigs. We also found that 3055 genes (over 50%) were shared between BMI testis and epididymis, indicating widespread expression profiles of genes related to reproduction. We characterized extensive alternative splicing events in BMI testis and epididymis and showed that 96 testis-expressed genes and 79 epididymis-expressed genes have more than six isoforms, revealing the complexity of alternative splicing. We accurately defined the transcribed isoforms in BMI testis and epididymis by combining Pacific Biotechnology Isoform-sequencing (PacBio Iso-Seq) and Illumina RNA Sequencing (RNA-seq) techniques. The refined annotation of some key genes governing male reproduction will facilitate further understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying BMI male sterility. In addition, the high-confident identification of 548 and 669 long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in these two tissues has established a candidate gene set for future functional investigations. Overall, our study provides new insights into the role of the testis and epididymis during BMI reproduction, paving the path for further studies on BMI male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- College of Life Science, Lyuliang University, Lvliang, China
| | - Hailong Huo
- Yunnan Vocational and Technical college of Agriculture, Kunming, China
| | - Weizhen Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Zhipeng Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Lina Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Luogang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Yu H Sun
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Jinlong Huo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
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13
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Diaz VD, Hermann BP. Single-Molecule Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization for Spatial Detection of mRNAs in Sections of Mammalian Testes. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2656:21-35. [PMID: 37249865 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3139-3_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Single-molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization (smFISH) enables the detection and localization of individual mRNAs in tissue sections with single-molecule resolution while preserving spatial context, and thus, is a useful tool for examining gene expression in biological systems. In particular, the growing reliance on single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to explore cellular heterogeneity has reinvigorated this approach as a validation tool to spatially re-map mRNA expression patterns described in isolated cells to their parent tissue. While use of antibody-based methods, such as indirect immunofluorescence (IIF), remain popular as validation strategies, smFISH often affords superior specificity and maintains congruency with scRNA-seq. Here, we present a detailed protocol that combines multiplexed smFISH using the RNAscope approach with IIF to co-visualize mRNAs and proteins within sections of mouse testes. We provide step-by-step guidelines from testis preparation through visualization that enables mapping of combinations of up to four mRNA/protein targets in frozen sections on the RNAscope platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria D Diaz
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Brian P Hermann
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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14
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Otsuka K, Yang H, Matsubara S, Shiraishi A, Kurihara M, Satake H, Kimura AP. Evidence for a functional role of Start, a long noncoding RNA, in mouse spermatocytes. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273279. [PMID: 36006924 PMCID: PMC9409574 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A mouse testis-specific long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), Start, is localized in the cytosol of Leydig cells and in the nucleus of pachytene spermatocytes. We previously showed that Start regulates steroidogenesis through controlling the expression of Star and Hsd3b1 genes in Leydig cells, but its function in germ cells was not known. Here we verified that a spermatocyte-specific protease gene, Prss43/Tessp-3, was downregulated in Start-knockout testes. To investigate the transcriptional regulatory activity of Start in spermatocytes, we first performed a series of reporter gene assays using a thymidine kinase promoter in spermatocyte-derived GC-2spd(ts) cells. A 5.4-kb genome sequence encompassing Start exhibited enhancer activity for this promoter, and the activity was decreased by knockdown of Start. Deletion of the Start promoter and replacement of the Start sequence abolished the enhancer activity and, consistently, the activity was detected in further experiments only when Start was actively transcribed. We then examined whether the Prss43/Tessp-3 gene could be a target of Start. A reporter gene assay demonstrated that the 5.4-kb sequence exhibited enhancer activity for a Prss43/Tessp-3 promoter in GC-2spd(ts) cells and that the activity was significantly decreased by knockdown of Start. These results suggest that Start functions in transcriptional activation of the Prss43/Tessp-3 gene in spermatocytes. Given that Start is presumed to regulate steroidogenic genes at the posttranscriptional level in Leydig cells, the function in spermatocytes is a novel role of Start. These findings provide an insight into multifunctionality of lncRNAs in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Otsuka
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, California United States of America
| | - Hong Yang
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shin Matsubara
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akira Shiraishi
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Misuzu Kurihara
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Honoo Satake
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Atsushi P. Kimura
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- * E-mail:
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15
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lncRNA 1700101O22Rik and NONMMUG030480.1 Are Not Essential for Spermatogenesis in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158627. [PMID: 35955762 PMCID: PMC9369125 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Many testis-specific lncRNAs are highly expressed in late spermatogenesis, especially in spermiogenesis. However, their functions and the underlying mechanisms in male fertility are largely unknown. Here, we screened two highly expressed lncRNAs, 1700101O22Rik (O22Rik) and NONMMUG030480.1 (NM480) in testes, to investigate the roles in spermatogenesis using lncRNA knockout (KO) mouse generated by CRISPER/Cas9 technology. Both testis-specific lncRNAs were mainly expressed from secondary spermatocytes to round spermatids, suggesting that they might be involved in spermiogenesis. Phenotypic analysis showed that the deletion of O22Rik or NM480 did not affect the development of testis and epididymis or spermatogenesis. These results were confirmed in both young and middle-aged male mice. In addition, there was no significant difference in sperm morphology and other parameters including concentration and motility between wild type (WT) and KO mice. Fertility tests showed that litter size was significantly lower in O22Rik KO mice compared with WT controls. Although O22Rik did not exert dramatic roles in spermatogenesis, on molecular levels, its surrounding gene expression was disturbed significantly. Gm32773 was decreased; however, Gm32828 was increased in KO mice. In conclusion, lncRNA O22Rik and NM480 are not individually essential for spermatogenesis in mice.
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16
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Tommasi S, Kitapci TH, Blumenfeld H, Besaratinia A. Secondhand smoke affects reproductive functions by altering the mouse testis transcriptome, and leads to select intron retention in Pde1a. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 161:107086. [PMID: 35063792 PMCID: PMC8891074 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) is known to result in adverse effects in multiple organ systems. However, the impact of SHS on the male reproductive system, particularly on the regulation of genes and molecular pathways that govern sperm production, maturation, and functions remains largely understudied. OBJECTIVE We investigated the effects of SHS on the testis transcriptome in a validated mouse model. METHODS Adult male mice were exposed to SHS (5 h/day, 5 days/week for 4 months) as compared to controls (clean air-exposed). RNA-seq analysis was performed on the testis of SHS-exposed mice and controls. Variant discovery and plink association analyses were also conducted to detect exposure-related transcript variants in SHS-treated mice. RESULTS Exposure of mice to SHS resulted in the aberrant expression of 131 testicular genes. Whilst approximately two thirds of the differentially expressed genes were protein-coding, the remaining (30.5%) comprised noncoding elements, mostly lncRNAs (19.1%). Variant discovery analysis identified a homozygous frameshift variant that is statistically significantly associated with SHS exposure (P = 7.744e-06) and is generated by retention of a short intron within Pde1a, a key regulator of spermatogenesis. Notably, this SHS-associated intron variant harbors an evolutionarily conserved, premature termination codon (PTC) that disrupts the open reading frame of Pde1a, presumably leading to its degradation via nonsense-mediated decay. DISCUSSION SHS alters the expression of genes involved in molecular pathways that are crucial for normal testis development and function. Preferential targeting of lncRNAs in the testis of SHS-exposed mice is especially significant considering their crucial role in the spatial and temporal modulation of spermatogenesis. Equally important is our discovery of a novel homozygous frameshift variant that is exclusively and significantly associated with SHS-exposure and is likely to represent a safeguard mechanism to regulate transcription of Pde1a and preserve normal testis function during harmful exposure to environmental agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Tommasi
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, USC Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, M/C 9603, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA.
| | - Tevfik H Kitapci
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, USC Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, M/C 9603, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Hannah Blumenfeld
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, USC Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, M/C 9603, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Ahmad Besaratinia
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, USC Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, M/C 9603, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
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17
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Tang L, Bo H. The significance of studying functional lncRNA in mouse spermatogenesis. Epigenomics 2022; 14:365-368. [PMID: 35195038 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2021-0414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Le Tang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Maternal & Child Health Care Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Hao Bo
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction & Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of China International Trust & Investment Corporation (CITIC) Xiangya, Changsha, 410008, China.,National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell & Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
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18
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Li M, Li J, Zhang C, Hou S, Weng B. MIR210HG is aberrantly expressed in the seminal plasma of varicocele patients and associated with varicocele-related dyszoospermia. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14277. [PMID: 35146790 DOI: 10.1111/and.14277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to confirm the expression of the seminal plasma long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) microRNA210 host gene (MIR210HG) in varicocele (VC) patients, to further explore the association between MIR210HG and VC severity and to evaluate whether MIR210HG can predict VC-related dyszoospermia. Semen samples from 188 VC patients and 92 healthy men were collected. Quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR detected seminal plasma MIR210HG levels. Receiver operating characteristic analysis assessed the ability of MIR210HG to screen patients with VC, or to screen VC patients with abnormal semen quality. Logistic analysis assessed the value of MIR210HG in predicting dyszoospermia in VC patients. The levels of MIR210HG in seminal plasma of VC patients were upregulated, which could screen VC patients. In addition, the levels of seminal plasma MIR210HG were upregulated with VC severity and were downregulated at 6 months after surgery in VC patients. Moreover, elevated MIR210HG levels in VC patients with abnormal semen quality could screen patients with abnormal semen quality and could independently predict the occurrence of dyszoospermia in VC patients. Seminal plasma MIR210HG expression is upregulated in VC patients, is associated with the severity of VC and may function as an independent predictor of VC-related dyszoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monong Li
- Urology Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Jinli Li
- Urology Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Changcun Zhang
- Urology Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Sichuan Hou
- Urology Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Bowen Weng
- Urology Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
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19
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Chen Z, Ling L, Shi X, Li W, Zhai H, Kang Z, Zheng B, Zhu J, Ye S, Wang H, Tong L, Ni J, Huang C, Li Y, Zheng K. Microinjection of antisense oligonucleotides into living mouse testis enables lncRNA function study. Cell Biosci 2021; 11:213. [PMID: 34920761 PMCID: PMC8684201 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-021-00717-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been the focus of ongoing research in a diversity of cellular processes. LncRNAs are abundant in mammalian testis, but their biological function remains poorly known. Results Here, we established an antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs)-based targeting approach that can efficiently knock down lncRNA in living mouse testis. We cloned the full-length transcript of lncRNA Tsx (testis-specific X-linked) and defined its testicular localization pattern. Microinjection of ASOs through seminiferous tubules in vivo significantly lowered the Tsx levels in both nucleus and cytoplasm. This effect lasted no less than 10 days, conducive to the generation and maintenance of phenotype. Importantly, ASOs performed better in depleting the nuclear Tsx and sustained longer effect than small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). In addition to the observation of an elevated number of apoptotic germ cells upon ASOs injection, which recapitulates the documented description of Tsx knockout, we also found a specific loss of meiotic spermatocytes despite overall no impact on meiosis and male fertility. Conclusions Our study detailed the characterization of Tsx and illustrates ASOs as an advantageous tool to functionally interrogate lncRNAs in spermatogenesis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13578-021-00717-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Ling
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaolian Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Wu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Huicong Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhenlong Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Bangjin Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiaqi Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Suni Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Lingxiu Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Juan Ni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, 310015, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chaoyang Huang
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310014, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China.
| | - Ke Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China.
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20
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Gene expression profiles of two testicular somatic cell lines respond differently to 4-nitrophenol mediating vary reproductive toxicity. Toxicology 2021; 463:152991. [PMID: 34673133 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.152991] [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: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
4-Nitrophenol (PNP) has been extensively used in manufacturing for several decades. Its toxic effects on the male reproductive system have been reported, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we utilized two testicular somatic cell lines (TM3 and TM4 cells) to explore the possible toxic effects of PNP on the male reproductive system. The activity of the cells after exposure to different doses of PNP (0.01, 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 μM) was evaluated. PNP treatment at 10 μM significantly inhibited cell viability, and 10 μM PNP was thus selected for subsequent experiments. Although PNP (10 μM) inhibited cell proliferation, promoted cell apoptosis, and changed the cell cycle distribution and ultrastructure in both types of cells, these effects were more significant in the TM4 cells. In addition, an Agilent mouse mRNA array was used to identify the gene expression differences between the control and PNP (10 μM) exposed TM3 and TM4 cells. The microarray analysis identified 67 and 1372 differentially expressed genes mainly concentrated in endothelial cell morphogenesis and anatomical structure development in TM3 cells and associated with cardiovascular system development and circulatory system development in TM4 cells. Moreover, a pathway analysis revealed that PNP not only predominately affected meiotic recombination and meiosis in TM3 cells, but also influenced axon guidance and developmental biology in TM4 cells. These results suggest that TM3 and TM4 cells exhibit different responses to PNP, which might mediate different toxic mechanisms.
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21
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In vitro reconstitution of the whole male germ-cell development from mouse pluripotent stem cells. Cell Stem Cell 2021; 28:2167-2179.e9. [PMID: 34496297 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian male germ-cell development consists of three distinct phases: primordial germ cell (PGC) development, male germ-cell specification for spermatogonium development, and ensuing spermatogenesis. Here, we show an in vitro reconstitution of whole male germ-cell development by pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). Mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) are induced into PGC-like cells (mPGCLCs), which are expanded for epigenetic reprogramming. In reconstituted testes under an optimized condition, such mPGCLCs differentiate into spermatogonium-like cells with proper developmental transitions, gene expression, and cell-cycle dynamics and are expanded robustly as germline stem cell-like cells (GSCLCs) with an appropriate androgenetic epigenome. Importantly, GSCLCs show vigorous spermatogenesis, not only upon transplantation into testes in vivo but also under an in vitro culture of testis transplants, and the resultant spermatids contribute to fertile offspring. By uniting faithful recapitulations of the three phases of male germ-cell development, our study creates a paradigm for the in vitro male gametogenesis by PSCs.
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Chadourne M, Poumerol E, Jouneau L, Passet B, Castille J, Sellem E, Pailhoux E, Mandon-Pépin B. Structural and Functional Characterization of a Testicular Long Non-coding RNA (4930463O16Rik) Identified in the Meiotic Arrest of the Mouse Topaz1 -/- Testes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:700290. [PMID: 34277642 PMCID: PMC8281061 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.700290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis involves coordinated processes, including meiosis, to produce functional gametes. We previously reported Topaz1 as a germ cell-specific gene highly conserved in vertebrates. Topaz1 knockout males are sterile with testes that lack haploid germ cells because of meiotic arrest after prophase I. To better characterize Topaz1–/– testes, we used RNA-sequencing analyses at two different developmental stages (P16 and P18). The absence of TOPAZ1 disturbed the expression of genes involved in microtubule and/or cilium mobility, biological processes required for spermatogenesis. Moreover, a quarter of P18 dysregulated genes are long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and three of them are testis-specific and located in spermatocytes, their expression starting between P11 and P15. The suppression of one of them, 4939463O16Rik, did not alter fertility although sperm parameters were disturbed and sperm concentration fell. The transcriptome of P18-4939463O16Rik–/– testes was altered and the molecular pathways affected included microtubule-based processes, the regulation of cilium movement and spermatogenesis. The absence of TOPAZ1 protein or 4930463O16Rik produced the same enrichment clusters in mutant testes despite a contrasted phenotype on male fertility. In conclusion, although Topaz1 is essential for the meiosis in male germ cells and regulate the expression of numerous lncRNAs, these studies have identified a Topaz1 regulated lncRNA (4930463O16Rik) that is key for both sperm production and motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Chadourne
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Elodie Poumerol
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Luc Jouneau
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Bruno Passet
- INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Johan Castille
- INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | | | - Eric Pailhoux
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
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23
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Gao YJ, Zhang RJ, Liu Q, Sun SG, Qi MY, Wang Y, Geng DD, Wang L. Functional predication of differentially expressed circRNAs/lncRNAs in the prefrontal cortex of Nrf2-knockout mice. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:8797-8816. [PMID: 33714958 PMCID: PMC8034947 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In the central nervous system, nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) protects neurons from oxidant injury, thereby ameliorating neurodegeneration. We explored the key circular RNAs (circRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) involved in Nrf2-induced neuroprotection. We used microarrays to examine the circRNAs (DEcircRNAs), lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) and mRNAs (DEmRNAs) differentially expressed between Nrf2 (+/+) and Nrf2 (-/-) mice and identified DEcircRNA/DElncRNA-miRNA-DEmRNA interaction networks. In total, 197 DEcircRNAs, 685 DElncRNAs and 356 DEmRNAs were identified in prefrontal cortical tissues from Nrf2 (-/-) mice. The expression patterns of selected DEcircRNAs (except for mmu_circ_0003404) and DElncRNAs in qRT-PCR analyses were generally consistent with the microarray analysis results. Functional annotation of the DEmRNAs in the DEcircRNA/DElncRNA-miRNA-DEmRNA networks indicated that five non-coding RNAs (mmu_circ_0000233, ENSMUST00000204847, NONMMUT024778, NONMMUT132160 and NONMMUT132168) may contribute to Nrf2 activity, with the help of mmu_circ_0015035 and NONMMUT127961. The results also revealed that four non-coding RNAs (cicRNA.20127, mmu_circ_0012936, ENSMUST00000194077 and NONMMUT109267) may influence glutathione metabolism. Additionally, 44 DEcircRNAs and 7 DElncRNAs were found to possess coding potential. These findings provide clues to the molecular pathways through which Nrf2 protects neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Jing Gao
- Department of Human Anatomy, Institute of Medicine and Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, Hebei, China
| | - Run-Jiao Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Institute of Medicine and Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, Hebei, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Institute of Medicine and Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, Hebei, China
| | - Shao-Guang Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, Hebei, China
| | - Mao-Yang Qi
- School of Basic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, Hebei, China
| | - Yue Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, Hebei, China
| | - Dan-Dan Geng
- Department of Human Anatomy, Institute of Medicine and Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, Hebei, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Institute of Medicine and Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, Hebei, China
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