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Wang X, Feng YQ, Li H, Xu Y, Yu J, Zhou M, Qiu F, Li N, Wang Z. Loss of DIS3L in the initial segment is dispensable for sperm maturation in the epididymis and male fertility. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100914. [PMID: 38875746 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100914] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
DIS3L, a catalytic exoribonuclease associated with the cytoplasmic exosome complex, degrades cytoplasmic RNAs and is implicated in cancers and certain other diseases in humans. Epididymis plays a pivotal role in the transport, maturation, and storage of sperm required for male fertility. However, it remains unclear whether DIS3L-mediated cytoplasmic RNA degradation plays a role in epididymis biology and functioning. Herein, we fabricated a Dis3l conditional knockout (Dis3l cKO) mouse line in which DIS3L was ablated from the principal cells of the initial segment (IS). Morphological analyses showed that spermatogenesis and IS differentiation occurred normally in Dis3l cKO mice. Additionally, the absence of DIS3L had no dramatic influence on the transcriptome of IS. Moreover, the sperm count, morphology, motility, and acrosome reaction frequency in Dis3l cKO mice were comparable to that of the control, indicating that the Dis3l cKO males had normal fertility. Collectively, our genetic model demonstrates that DIS3L inactivation in the IS is nonessential for sperm maturation and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Yan-Qin Feng
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Hong Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Yu Xu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Junjie Yu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Meiyang Zhou
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Fanyi Qiu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Nana Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China.
| | - Zhengpin Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, PR China.
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2
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Zhou H, Zhang Z, Qu R, Zhu H, Luo Y, Li Q, Mu J, Yu R, Zeng Y, Chen B, Sang Q, Wang L. CCDC28A deficiency causes sperm head defects, reduced sperm motility and male infertility in mice. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:174. [PMID: 38597936 PMCID: PMC11006775 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05184-5] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Mature spermatozoa with normal morphology and motility are essential for male reproduction. The epididymis has an important role in the proper maturation and function of spermatozoa for fertilization. However, factors related to the processes involved in spermatozoa modifications are still unclear. Here we demonstrated that CCDC28A, a member of the CCDC family proteins, is highly expressed in testes and the CCDC28A deletion leads to male infertility. We found CCDC28A deletion had a mild effect on spermatogenesis. And epididymal sperm collected from Ccdc28a-/- mice showed bent sperm heads, acrosomal defects, reduced motility and decreased in vitro fertilization competence whereas their axoneme, outer dense fibers, and fibrous sheath were all normal. Furthermore, we found that CCDC28A interacted with sperm acrosome membrane-associated protein 1 (SPACA1) and glycogen synthase kinase 3a (GSK3A), and deficiencies in both proteins in mice led to bent heads and abnormal acrosomes, respectively. Altogether, our results reveal the essential role of CCDC28A in regulating sperm morphology and motility and suggesting a potential marker for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbin Zhou
- Institute of Pediatrics, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhihua Zhang
- Institute of Pediatrics, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ronggui Qu
- Institute of Pediatrics, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Hongying Zhu
- Institute of Pediatrics, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yuxi Luo
- Institute of Pediatrics, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qun Li
- Institute of Pediatrics, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jian Mu
- Institute of Pediatrics, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ran Yu
- Institute of Pediatrics, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yang Zeng
- Institute of Pediatrics, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Biaobang Chen
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qing Sang
- Institute of Pediatrics, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Lei Wang
- Institute of Pediatrics, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Prathima P, Venkaiah K, Reddy MH, Pradeepkiran JA, Sainath SB. Antioxidant effects of α-lipoic acid against epididymal oxidative damage in adult offspring rats exposed to maternal hypothyroidism stress. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 125:108555. [PMID: 38342389 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108555] [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: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
It is well known that the epididymis promotes post-testicular sperm maturation events. However, its malfunction during congenital hypothyroidism is relatively less understood as compared to the testis. The present study evaluated the probable effect of α-lipoic acid on epididymal oxidative stress parameters in rats exposed to antithyroid drug, carbimazole during fetal period. Time-mated pregnant rats in unexposed and carbimazole (1.35 mg/Kg body weight exposed were allowed to deliver pups and weaned. At postnatal day 100, the F1 male pups were assessed for epididymal endpoints. Among the epididymal regions, significant elevation of lipid peroxidation levels, superoxide anion, and hydrogen peroxide contents with a concomitant reduction in the activity levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and reduced glutathione levels were observed in cauda epididymis of carbimazole exposed rats over controls. Significant elevation in sperm DNA fragmentation (comet assay), accelerated cauda epididymal sperm transit time and reduction in epididymal sialic acid content was observed in carbimazole exposed rats. RT-qPCR studies revealed that embryonic exposure to carbimazole resulted in down regulation of androgen receptor, nuclear factor eryrthoid 2 like 2, 5α-reducatse 1 mRNA levels, while up regulation of caspase 3 mRNA was observed in epididymal regions of rats. In addition, fetal exposure to carbimazole resulted in disorganization of cauda epididymal architecture in rats. Conversely, supplementation of α-lipoic acid (70 mg/Kg bodyweight) during PND 3 to 14 restored epididymal functions in carbimazole exposed rats and the ameliorative effects of lipoic acid could be attributed to its antioxidant and steroidogenic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Prathima
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524 320, AP, India
| | - K Venkaiah
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524 320, AP, India
| | - M Hanuma Reddy
- Department of Marine Biology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524320, AP, India
| | | | - S B Sainath
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524 320, AP, India.
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Liu MM, Feng XL, Qi C, Zhang SE, Zhang GL. The significance of single-cell transcriptome analysis in epididymis research. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1357370. [PMID: 38577504 PMCID: PMC10991796 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1357370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
As a crucial component of the male reproductive system, the epididymis plays multiple roles, including sperm storage and secretion of nutritive fluids for sperm development and maturation. The acquisition of fertilization capacity by sperm occurs during their transport through the epididymis. Compared with the testis, little has been realized about the importance of the epididymis. However, with the development of molecular biology and single-cell sequencing technology, the importance of the epididymis for male fertility should be reconsidered. Recent studies have revealed that different regions of the epididymis exhibit distinct functions and cell type compositions, which are likely determined by variations in gene expression patterns. In this research, we primarily focused on elucidating the cellular composition and region-specific gene expression patterns within different segments of the epididymis and provided detailed insights into epididymal function in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Meng Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xin-Lei Feng
- Animal Products Quality and Safety Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chao Qi
- Provincial Animal Husbandry Station of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shu-Er Zhang
- Provincial Animal Husbandry Station of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Guo-Liang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
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5
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Nakata H, Iseki S, Mizokami A. Three-dimensional analysis of junctions between efferent and epididymal ducts in the human caput epididymis. Andrology 2024; 12:87-97. [PMID: 37129932 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13445] [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: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the scarcity of studies using human tissues, the limited information is currently available on the gross structure of the caput epididymis in humans, at which efferent ducts connect to the epididymal duct. OBJECTIVE The present study investigated the three-dimensional structures of efferent and caput epididymal ducts in humans, with a focus on junctions between the former and the latter. MATERIALS AND METHODS We examined three sets of human efferent and caput epididymal ducts in specimens obtained from prostatic carcinoma patients. They were reconstructed from serial paraffin sections using a segmentation model created by a deep learning protocol and high-performance three-dimensional reconstruction software. RESULTS Serial sections and three-dimensional images of human efferent and caput epididymal ducts were combined to obtain the detailed anatomical information. When a single efferent duct was defined as a duct connecting to both the extra-testicular rete testis and epididymal duct, there were 14.7 efferent ducts with a total length of 3.0 m per specimen on average. The cranial portion of the efferent ducts joined to a single duct and terminated at the end of the epididymal duct, whereas other efferent ducts terminated independently on the side of the epididymal duct. These two types of junctions between the efferent and epididymal ducts differed in the patterns of the epithelial-type switch. The epididymal duct consisted of multiple segments, which were separated by a minimal amount of connective tissue septa or even without them. Efferent ducts occupied most of the volume of the caput epididymis. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS By utilizing deep learning, we reconstructed human efferent and caput epididymal ducts and revealed their precise three-dimensional structures, which differed from those of rodents in several aspects. The present results may be useful for analyzing anatomical abnormalities related to some types of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Nakata
- Department of Clinical Engineering, Faculty of Health Sciences, Komatsu University, Komatsu, Japan
- Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Shoichi Iseki
- Department of Clinical Engineering, Faculty of Health Sciences, Komatsu University, Komatsu, Japan
| | - Atsushi Mizokami
- Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Japan
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Rotimi DE, Ojo OA, Adeyemi OS. Atrazine exposure caused oxidative stress in male rats and inhibited brain-pituitary-testicular functions. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2024; 38:e23579. [PMID: 37926918 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to the herbicide atrazine has been shown to have deleterious effects on human and animal reproduction. To determine whether atrazine influences the brain-pituitary-testicular axis directly or indirectly, the present study examined the toxic effects of atrazine on fertility potential by assessing gonadal hormones, testicular function indices, sperm quality, and oxido-inflammatory markers in rats. Twelve animals were grouped into two groups; control and atrazine. The control group received oral administration of olive oil (2 mL/kg), while the atrazine group received 120 mg/kg of atrazine. Treatments were daily and lasted for 7 days. Upon treatment cessation, rats were necropsied for biochemical and histopathological analyses. The biochemical function indices in the rat brain, testis, and epididymis decreased significantly in the atrazine group. Atrazine exposure led to decreases in gonadal hormonal concentrations, semen quality parameters, and testicular function indices compared with the control. Furthermore, there was a marked increase in oxidative stress and inflammatory markers as well as degeneration of the histo-architecture in atrazine-treated rats. Overall, atrazine exposure impaired sperm quality, led to increased inflammation and oxidative stress, and decreased the activity of the brain-pituitary-testicular axis via endocrine disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damilare E Rotimi
- SDG 03 Group - Good Health & Well-being, Landmark University, Omu Aran, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Medicinal Biochemistry, Nanomedicine & Toxicology Laboratory, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Nigeria
| | - Oluwafemi A Ojo
- Phytomedicine, Molecular Toxicology, and Computational Biochemistry Research Laboratory (PMTCB-RL), Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
| | - Oluyomi S Adeyemi
- SDG 03 Group - Good Health & Well-being, Landmark University, Omu Aran, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Medicinal Biochemistry, Nanomedicine & Toxicology Laboratory, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Laboratory of Medicinal Biochemistry & Biochemical Toxicology, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Environment, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Osaki, Japan
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7
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Meng F, Hao H, Guo Z, Liu W, Zhang S, Tang W, Ma W, Shang X. Silica nanoparticles induces sperm granuloma formation and blood-epididymal barrier disruption via the p38 MAPK pathway in mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 182:114113. [PMID: 37890760 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.114113] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Previous researches have demonstrated that the silica nanoparticles (SiNPs), which are widely used in all aspects of life, are hazardous to the male reproductive system. However, the cellular and molecular mechanism underlying SiNPs toxicity to the epididymis remain unclear. In this present study, a total of 60 male mice were separated into 4 groups and then treated to SiNPs for 7 consecutive days at a dose of 0, 2.5, 10, and 20 mg/kg body weight. The results showed that SiNPs could alter the histological structure of epididymis and induce sperm granuloma formation, leading to decreased sperm quality and quantity. In addition, the ultrastructure and permeability of blood-epididymal barrier (BEB) were impaired after exposure to SiNPs, and a significant downregulation of integral membrane proteins at the BEB was detected. SiNPs were also found to raise the percentage of macrophages in the epithelium and interstitium of the epididymis, followed by increased expression of pro-inflammatory molecules including TNF α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Meanwhile, SiNPs induced oxidative stress in epididymis, as shown by the markedly elevated generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and upregulated activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). Further study showed that SiNPs activated the p38 MAPK signaling pathway, which accelerated clathrin-mediated endocytosis of integral membrane proteins and perturb vesicular trafficking. Taken together, exposure to SiNPs could induce sperm granuloma formation and impair the integrity of BEB in mice through activating the p38 MAPK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangyu Meng
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China
| | - Huiyu Hao
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China
| | - Zhiyi Guo
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China; Tangshan Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Genetic Information, PR China
| | - Wenpeng Liu
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China
| | - Shumin Zhang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China
| | - Wenxuan Tang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China
| | - Wendong Ma
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China
| | - Xuan Shang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China; Tangshan Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Genetic Information, PR China.
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8
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Zeng J, Gao W, Tang Y, Wang Y, Liu X, Yin J, Su X, Zhang M, Kang E, Tian Y, Ni B, He W. Hypoxia-sensitive cells trigger NK cell activation via the KLF4-ASH1L-ICAM-1 axis, contributing to impairment in the rat epididymis. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113442. [PMID: 37952156 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113442] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a global health problem especially prevalent in high-altitude regions. The epididymis is essential for sperm maturation, but the influence of environmental cues on its reshaping remains poorly understood. Here, we use single-cell transcriptomics to track the cellular profiles of epidydimal cells in rats raised under normoxia or extended hypoxia. The results show that hypoxia impairs epididymal function, evident in reduced epithelial cells, compromised blood-epididymis barrier integrity, and increased natural killer cells. Through combined analysis of gene-regulatory networks and cell-cell interaction maps, we identify epididymal hypoxia-sensitive cells that communicate with natural killer (NK) cells via increased intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) driven by KLF4 recruitment of the histone methyltransferase ASL1L to the Icam1 promoter. Taken together, our study offers a detailed blueprint of epididymal changes during hypoxia and defines a KLF4-ALSH1L-ICAM-1 axis contributing to NK cell activation, yielding a potential treatment targeting hypoxia-induced infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitao Zeng
- Reproductive Medical Center, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Weiwu Gao
- Institute of Immunology, People's Liberation Army (PLA), and Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Tang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaona Liu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jun Yin
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of High-Altitude Military Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xingxing Su
- Hepatological Surgery Department, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mengjie Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of High-Altitude Military Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Enchuan Kang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Tian
- Institute of Immunology, People's Liberation Army (PLA), and Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bing Ni
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of High-Altitude Military Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei He
- Reproductive Medical Center, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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Derbak H, Imre K, Benabdelhak AC, Moussaoui M, Kribeche A, Kebbi R, Ayad A. Effect of Peganum harmala Total Alkaloid Extract on Sexual Behavior and Sperm Parameters in Male Mice. Vet Sci 2023; 10:498. [PMID: 37624285 PMCID: PMC10459670 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10080498] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The study was designed to evaluate the effects of the total alkaloid extract of Algerian Peganum harmala seeds on sexual behavior and male reproductive function. After two weeks of acclimatization, the male mice were randomly divided into four groups (seven mice in each group). For 35 days, the extract was administered orally at dose levels of 6.25, 12.5, and 25 mg/kg body weight per day to the respective groups of male mice (n = 7) and normal saline daily to the control group. On day 28, sexual behavior parameters were recorded. At the end of the trial, reproductive organ weights, sperm quality, seminal fructose, and testosterone hormone levels were evaluated. The three treated groups were compared with the control using statistical variance analysis (one-way ANOVA, p < 0.05), followed by Tukey's test. The results of the groups treated with 12.5 and 6.25 mg/kg of P. harmala alkaloid revealed the MF and IF parameters to be the lowest compared to the control group (p < 0.05). However, the male mice treated with 25 mg/kg recorded the highest values. A low significant value of ML was observed in the group treated with 25 mg/kg of the total alkaloid extract of P. harmala compared to the control group (p < 0.01), while a rise was observed in the concentration group treated with 6.25 mg/kg. Regarding IL, the male mice treated with different concentrations of the total alkaloid extract of P. harmala recorded a higher time than the control group. Moreover, an increase in the gonadosomatic index was noticed in all groups compared to the control group. However, there was a significant (p < 0.01) decrease in the sperm counts of the groups treated with 12.5 mg/kg and 6.25 mg/kg. However, there was no significant difference in the motility, membrane integrity, and total antioxidant capacity of sperm cells compared to the control. The extract treatment also brought about a non-significant increase in fructose content of the seminal vesicle and serum testosterone level. The findings of this study demonstrate that the extract acts in a dose-dependent manner, and it has varying effects on the reproductive parameters of male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanane Derbak
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (H.D.); (A.C.B.); (M.M.); (R.K.)
| | - Kálmán Imre
- Department of Animal Production and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timișoara, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Amira Chahrazad Benabdelhak
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (H.D.); (A.C.B.); (M.M.); (R.K.)
| | - Mohamed Moussaoui
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (H.D.); (A.C.B.); (M.M.); (R.K.)
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (CRSP), Constantine 25000, Algeria
| | - Amina Kribeche
- Laboratory of Biomathematics, Biochemistry, Biophysics and Scientometrics (L3BS), University of Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algeria;
| | - Rosa Kebbi
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (H.D.); (A.C.B.); (M.M.); (R.K.)
| | - Abdelhanine Ayad
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (H.D.); (A.C.B.); (M.M.); (R.K.)
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10
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Crossen MJ, Wilbourne J, Fogarty A, Zhao F. Epithelial and mesenchymal fate decisions in Wolffian duct development. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2023; 34:462-473. [PMID: 37330364 PMCID: PMC10524679 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2023.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Wolffian ducts (WDs) are the paired embryonic structures that give rise to internal male reproductive tract organs. WDs are initially formed in both sexes but have sex-specific fates during sexual differentiation. Understanding WD differentiation requires insights into the process of fate decisions of epithelial and mesenchymal cells, which are tightly coordinated by endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine signals. In this review, we discuss current advances in understanding the fate-decision process of WD epithelial and mesenchymal lineages from their initial formation at the embryonic stage to postnatal differentiation. Finally, we discuss aberrant cell differentiation in WD abnormalities and pathologies and identify opportunities for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- McKenna J Crossen
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Jillian Wilbourne
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Allyssa Fogarty
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Comparative Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Fei Zhao
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Comparative Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
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11
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Wang X, Qiu F, Yu J, Zhou M, Zuo A, Xu X, Sun XY, Wang Z. Transcriptome profiling of the initial segment and proximal caput of mouse epididymis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1190890. [PMID: 37324270 PMCID: PMC10266198 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1190890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The proximal region of the mouse epididymis plays a pivotal role in sperm transport, sperm maturation, and male fertility. Several studies have focused on segment-dependent gene expression of the mouse epididymis through high-throughput sequencing without the precision of the microdissection. Methods and results Herein, we isolated the initial segment (IS) and proximal caput (P-caput) by physical microdissection using an Lcn9-cre; Rosa26tdTomato mouse model. We defined the transcriptome changes of caput epididymis by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), which identified 1,961 genes that were abundantly expressed in the IS and 1,739 genes that were prominently expressed in the P-caput. In addition, we found that many differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were predominantly or uniquely expressed in the epididymis and region-specific genes were highly associated with transport, secretion, sperm motility, fertilization, and male fertility. Conclusion Thus, this study provides an RNA-seq resource to identify region-specific genes in the caput epididymis. The epididymal-selective/specific genes are potential targets for male contraception and may provide new insights into understanding segment-specific epididymal microenvironment-mediated sperm transport, maturation, and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Fanyi Qiu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Junjie Yu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Meiyang Zhou
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Anjian Zuo
- Department of Bioinformatics, Wanhui Biomedicine Co., LTD., Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojiang Xu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Xiao-Yang Sun
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhengpin Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
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12
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Capra E, Turri F, Lazzari B, Biffani S, Lange Consiglio A, Ajmone Marsan P, Stella A, Pizzi F. CpG DNA methylation changes during epididymal sperm maturation in bulls. Epigenetics Chromatin 2023; 16:20. [PMID: 37254160 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-023-00495-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During epididymal transit spermatozoa acquire specific morphological features which enhance their ability to swim in a progressive manner and interact with the oocytes. At the same time, sperm cells undergo specific molecular rearrangements essential for the fertilizing sperm to drive a correct embryo development. To assess epigenetic sperm changes during epididymal maturation, the caput, corpus and cauda epididymis sperm tracts were isolated from eight bulls and characterized for different sperm quality parameters and for CpG DNA methylation using Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing (RRBS) able to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in higher CpG density regions. RESULTS Caput sperm showed significant variation in motility and sperm kinetics variables, whereas spermatozoa collected from the corpus presented morphology variation and significant alterations in variables related to acrosome integrity. A total of 57,583 methylated regions were identified across the eight bulls, showing a significantly diverse distribution for sperm collected in the three epididymal regions. Differential methylation was observed between caput vs corpus (n = 11,434), corpus vs cauda (n = 12,372) and caput vs cauda (n = 2790). During epididymal transit a high proportion of the epigenome was remodeled, showing several regions in which methylation decreases from caput to corpus and increases from corpus to cauda. CONCLUSIONS Specific CpG DNA methylation changes in sperm isolated from the caput, corpus, and cauda epididymis tracts are likely to refine the sperm epigenome during sperm maturation, potentially impacting sperm fertilization ability and spatial organization of the genome during early embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Capra
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council IBBA CNR, 26900, Lodi, Italy.
| | - F Turri
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council IBBA CNR, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - B Lazzari
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council IBBA CNR, 26900, Lodi, Italy
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council IBBA CNR, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - S Biffani
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council IBBA CNR, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - A Lange Consiglio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - P Ajmone Marsan
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Technology-DIANA, and Romeo and Enrica Invernizzi Research Center on Sustainable Dairy Production-CREI, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 29122, Piacenza, Italy
| | - A Stella
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council IBBA CNR, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - F Pizzi
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council IBBA CNR, 26900, Lodi, Italy
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13
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Qiu F, Wang X, Zhou M, Yu J, Wang Z. Epididymal DIS3 exosome ribonuclease is not necessary for mouse sperm maturation or fertility. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 666:36-44. [PMID: 37172450 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.05.023] [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: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
DIS3 is an RNA exosome associated ribonuclease that degrades a wide range of transcripts that can be essential for cell survival and development. The proximal region of the mouse epididymis (initial segment and caput) plays a pivotal role in sperm transport and maturation required for male fertility. However, whether DIS3 ribonuclease mediates RNA decay in proximal epididymides remains unclear. Herein, we established a conditional knockout mouse line by crossing a floxed Dis3 allele with Lcn9-cre mice in which the recombinase is expressed in the principal cells of initial segment as early as post-natal day 17. Morphological and histological analyses, immunofluorescence, computer-aided sperm analysis and fertility were used for functional analyses. We document that DIS3 deficiency in the initial segment had no effect on male fertility. Dis3 cKO males had normal spermatogenesis and initial segment development. In cauda epididymides of Dis3 cKO mice, sperm abundance, morphology, motility, and the frequency of acrosome exocytosis were comparable to controls. Collectively, our genetic model demonstrates that loss of DIS3 in the initial segment of the epididymis is not essential for sperm maturation, motility, or male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanyi Qiu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, PR China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, PR China
| | - Meiyang Zhou
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, PR China
| | - Junjie Yu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, PR China
| | - Zhengpin Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, PR China.
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14
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Silva GF, Cunha R, Carvalho F, Ribeiro M, Rocha A, Amorim I, Guimarães T. Case report: Long term follow-up of a large unilateral epididymal cyst in a stallion used for teaching: Is this condition associated with infertility? Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1145742. [PMID: 37065254 PMCID: PMC10090384 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1145742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
A 30-year-old Lusitano stallion presented with an enlarged right epididymis. The ultrasound scan revealed a cyst-like formation and the histopathological examination was compatible with epididymal cyst located at the body/tail transition, epididymal spermatocele and sperm granuloma and epididymitis. However, these conditions did not seem to affect the animal's reproductive performance, nor did the semen parameters analyzed over the 8 years after the diagnosis show significant changes. Nevertheless, since the ejaculate contains mostly sperm cells from the tail of the epididymis, where fertile spermatozoa are stored until ejaculated, a deep knowledge of the different conditions that can affect this organ is of the utmost importance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raquel Cunha
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto (UP), Porto, Portugal
- Center for the Study of Animal Sciences (CECA), ICETA, University of Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão, Vairão, Portugal
| | - Fátima Carvalho
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto (UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Mário Ribeiro
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto (UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - António Rocha
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto (UP), Porto, Portugal
- Center for the Study of Animal Sciences (CECA), ICETA, University of Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão, Vairão, Portugal
| | - Irina Amorim
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto (UP), Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Porto, Portugal
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), University of Porto (UP), Porto, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Irina Amorim
| | - Tiago Guimarães
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto (UP), Porto, Portugal
- Center for the Study of Animal Sciences (CECA), ICETA, University of Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão, Vairão, Portugal
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15
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Horvath-Pereira BDO, Almeida GHDR, da Silva Júnior LN, do Nascimento PG, Horvath Pereira BDO, Fireman JVBT, Pereira MLDRF, Carreira ACO, Miglino MA. Biomaterials for Testicular Bioengineering: How far have we come and where do we have to go? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1085872. [PMID: 37008920 PMCID: PMC10060902 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1085872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditional therapeutic interventions aim to restore male fertile potential or preserve sperm viability in severe cases, such as semen cryopreservation, testicular tissue, germ cell transplantation and testicular graft. However, these techniques demonstrate several methodological, clinical, and biological limitations, that impact in their results. In this scenario, reproductive medicine has sought biotechnological alternatives applied for infertility treatment, or to improve gamete preservation and thus increase reproductive rates in vitro and in vivo. One of the main approaches employed is the biomimetic testicular tissue reconstruction, which uses tissue-engineering principles and methodologies. This strategy pursues to mimic the testicular microenvironment, simulating physiological conditions. Such approach allows male gametes maintenance in culture or produce viable grafts that can be transplanted and restore reproductive functions. In this context, the application of several biomaterials have been proposed to be used in artificial biological systems. From synthetic polymers to decellularized matrixes, each biomaterial has advantages and disadvantages regarding its application in cell culture and tissue reconstruction. Therefore, the present review aims to list the progress that has been made and the continued challenges facing testicular regenerative medicine and the preservation of male reproductive capacity, based on the development of tissue bioengineering approaches for testicular tissue microenvironment reconstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Pedro Gabriel do Nascimento
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Ana Claudia Oliveira Carreira
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Centre for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Angelica Miglino
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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16
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Al-Nawd EA, Alshowafi FK, Abdullateef AA, Noman MMA, Albadani RH, Al-Mansoub MA. Serum leptin correlates in fertile and idiopathic infertile Yemeni males: a comparative cross-sectional study. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2022; 68:348-356. [DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2022.2113930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ebraheem A. Al-Nawd
- Division of Clinical Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Jibla University for Medical and Health Sciences, Ibb, Yemen
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, The High Institute of Health Sciences, Ibb, Yemen
| | - Fairouz K. Alshowafi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana’a University, Sana’a, Yemen
| | - Ahmed A. Abdullateef
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana’a University, Sana’a, Yemen
| | - Mohammad M. Abdulgabbar Noman
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana’a University, Sana’a, Yemen
| | - Rashad H. Albadani
- Department of Dermatology and Andrology, Althawra Hospital, Ibb, Yemen
- The Consultant Medical Centre for Dermatology, Andrology and Infertility, Ibb, Yemen
| | - Majed Ahmed Al-Mansoub
- Centre for Drug Research, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ibb University, Ibb, Yemen
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17
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Cyr DG, Pinel L. Emerging organoid models to study the epididymis in male reproductive toxicology. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 112:88-99. [PMID: 35810924 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The importance of the epididymis on sperm maturation and consequently male fertility has been well documented. The pseudostratified epithelium of the epididymis is comprised of multiple cell types, including principal cells, which are the most abundant, and basal cells. The role of basal cells has been unclear and has been a source of discussion in the literature. However, the recent demonstration that these cells are multipotent or adult stem cells has opened new areas of research in epididymal biology. One such avenue is to understand the regulation of these stem cells, and to exploit their properties to develop tools for toxicological studies to elucidate the effects of chemicals on cell differentiation and epididymal function in vitro. Studies in both rat and mouse have shown that purified single epididymal basal cells cultured under 3D conditions can proliferate and differentiate to form organoids, or mini organs. Furthermore, these epididymal basal stem cells can self-renew and differentiate into other epididymal cell types. It is known that during epididymal development, basal cells are derived from undifferentiated columnar cells, which have been reported to share common properties to stem cells. Like basal cells, these undifferentiated columnar cells can also form organoids under 3D culture conditions and can differentiate into basal, principal and clear cells. Organoids derived from either basal cells or columnar cells offer unique models for toxicology studies and represent an exciting and emerging approach to understand the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Université du Québec, Laval, QC, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Laval University, Québec, QC, Canada.
| | - Laurie Pinel
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Université du Québec, Laval, QC, Canada
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18
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Dufresne J, Gregory M, Pinel L, Cyr DG. Differential gene expression and hallmarks of stemness in epithelial cells of the developing rat epididymis. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 389:327-349. [PMID: 35590013 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03634-9] [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: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Epididymal development can be subdivided into three phases: undifferentiated, a period of differentiation, and expansion. The objectives of this study were (1) to assess gene expression profiles in epididymides, (2) predict signaling pathways, and (3) develop a novel 3D cell culture method to assess the regulation of epididymal development in vitro. Microarray analyses indicate that the largest changes in differential gene expression occurred between the 7- to 18-day period, in which 1452 genes were differentially expressed, while 671 differentially expressed genes were noted between days 18 and 28, and there were 560 differentially expressed genes between days 28 and 60. Multiple signaling pathways were predicted at different phases of development. Pathway associations indicated that in epididymides of 7- to 18-day old rats, there was a significant association of regulated genes implicated in stem cells, estrogens, thyroid hormones, and kidney development, while androgen- and estrogen-related pathways were enriched at other phases of development. Organoids were derived from CD49f + columnar cells from 7-day old rats, while no organoids developed from CD49f- cells. Cells cultured in an epididymal basal cell organoid medium versus a commercial kidney differentiation medium supplemented with DHT revealed that irrespective of the culture medium, cells within differentiating organoids expressed p63, AQP9, and V-ATPase after 14 days of culture. The commercial kidney medium resulted in an increase in the number of organoids positive for p63, AQP9, and V-ATPase. Together, these data indicate that columnar cells represent an epididymal stem/progenitor cell population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Dufresne
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Université du Québec, 245 boul. Des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 3B7, Canada
| | - Mary Gregory
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Université du Québec, 245 boul. Des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 3B7, Canada
| | - Laurie Pinel
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Université du Québec, 245 boul. Des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 3B7, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Université du Québec, 245 boul. Des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 3B7, Canada. .,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada. .,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Laval University, Québec, QC, Canada.
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19
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Zvyagina VI, Belskikh ES. Comparative Assessment of the Functional Activity of Rat Epididymal Mitochondria in Oxidative Stress Induced by Hyperhomocysteinemia and L-NAME Administration. J EVOL BIOCHEM PHYS+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s0022093022020065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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20
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Abstract
The male reproductive system consists of testes, a series of ducts connecting the testes to the external urethral orifice, accessory sex glands, and the penis. Spermatogonial stem cells differentiate and mature in testes and epididymides, and spermatozoa are ejaculated with exocrine fluids secreted by accessory sex glands. Many studies have clarified the detailed structure and function of the male reproductive system, and have shown that various biologic controls, including genomics, epigenetics, and the neuroendocrine-immune system regulate proliferation, differentiation, and maturation of germ cells. In other words (1) genetic deletion or abnormalities, (2) aberration of DNA methylation and histone modifications, as well as small RNA dysfunction, and (3) neuroendocrine-immune disorders are involved in functional failure of the male reproductive system. In this article, we review these three factors for germ cell microcircumstance, especially focused on the immunoendocrine environment. In particular, the relation between factors protecting germ cells with strong auto-immunogenicity and opposite factors compromising this protection are discussed. Reductions in sperm count, concentration, and semen quality are serious problems in developed countries, although the causes are complex and remain unclear. The accumulation of basic knowledge regarding the structure, function, and regulation of the male reproductive system under various experimental conditions will be important to resolve these problems.
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21
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Manfrevola F, Martinez G, Coutton C, Rocco D, Reynaud K, Le Vern Y, Froment P, Beauclair L, Aubert D, Pierantoni R, Chianese R, Guillou F. Ankrd31 in Sperm and Epididymal Integrity. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:741975. [PMID: 34820371 PMCID: PMC8607815 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.741975] [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: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ankyrin proteins (ANKRD) are key mediators linking membrane and sub-membranous cytoskeletal proteins. Recent findings have highlighted a new role of ANKRD31 during spermatogenesis, elucidating its involvement in meiotic recombination and male germ cell progression. Following testicular differentiation, spermatozoa (SPZ) enter into the epididymis, where they undergo several biochemical and enzymatic changes. The epididymal epithelium is characterized by cell-to-cell junctions that are able to form the blood-epididymal barrier (BEB). This intricate epithelial structure provides the optimal microenvironment needed for epididymal sperm maturation. To date, no notions have been reported regarding a putative role of ANKRD31 in correct BEB formation. In our work, we generated an Ankrd31 knockout male mouse model (Ankrd31–/–) and characterized its reproductive phenotype. Ankrd31–/– mice were infertile and exhibited oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia (a low number of immotile SPZ with abnormal morphological features). In addition, a complete deregulation of BEB was found in Ankrd31–/–, due to cell-to-cell junction anomalies. In order to suggest that BEB deregulation may depend on Ankrd31 gene deletion, we showed the physical interaction among ANKRD31 and some epithelial junction proteins in wild-type (WT) epididymides. In conclusion, the current work shows a key role of ANKRD31 in the control of germ cell progression as well as sperm and epididymal integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Manfrevola
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Guillaume Martinez
- Hôpital Couple-Enfant, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, UM de Génétique Chromosomique, Grenoble, France.,Genetic Epigenetic and Therapies of Infertility, Institute for Advanced Biosciences INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Charles Coutton
- Hôpital Couple-Enfant, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, UM de Génétique Chromosomique, Grenoble, France.,Genetic Epigenetic and Therapies of Infertility, Institute for Advanced Biosciences INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Domenico Rocco
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Karine Reynaud
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - Yves Le Vern
- INRAE, Université de Tours, ISP, Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Froment
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - Linda Beauclair
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - Denise Aubert
- Univ Lyon, ENS de Lyon, INRAE, CNRS, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosanna Chianese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Florian Guillou
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
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22
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Liu X, Teng Z, Wang Z, Zhu P, Song Z, Liu F. Expressions of HSPA1L and HSPA9 are associated with poor sperm quality of low-motility spermatozoa in fertile men. Andrologia 2021; 54:e14321. [PMID: 34796524 DOI: 10.1111/and.14321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Human semen is a heterogeneous group containing a portion of low-motility sperm, which may determine the sperm quality evaluation. Abnormally expressed proteins in low-motility spermatozoa will be the candidates for sperm biology research. By comparing proteomes of high- or low-motility spermatozoa from the same semen of normal fertile men, 21 differentially expressed proteins were identified. Proteins with molecular chaperone function were significantly over-represented, of which HSPA1L and HSPA9 significantly decreased in low-motility sperm. Compared with young adult testes with normal spermatogenesis, HSPA1L and HSPA9 had decreased expressions in elderly testis characterised with poor spermatogenesis, suggesting their associations with spermatogenesis. Decreased expressions of HSPA1L and HSPA9 in low-motility spermatozoa were validated by Western Blot and immunofluorescence quantification analysis. HSPA1L was mainly expressed on sperm post-acrosome and midpiece, whilst HSAP9 was mainly expressed on acrosome and sperm tail. HSPA1L antibody could inhibit sperm motility validated by antibody blocking experiment, whilst HSPA9 antibody showed no significant effect on sperm motility. The study demonstrated that low-motility spermatozoa from fertile men had poor sperm quality, in which differential expressed proteins were promising markers for evaluating sperm quality, understanding mechanism of male infertility with unexplained causes, and providing new idea for male infertility research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuexia Liu
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Zi Teng
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Zhixin Wang
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Peng Zhu
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Zhan Song
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Fujun Liu
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
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Gong QQ, Dou ZL, Wang X, Zhang KY, Chen H, Gao JG, Sun XY. Epididymal initial segment-specific Cre recombinase activity in Lcn8-Cre knock-in mice. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:6015-6023. [PMID: 34328598 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06604-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm acquire the ability to fertilize ova through a complex process of epididymal maturation. To identify the functions of genes expressed in the proximal epididymis, mouse models specific to this region are needed. METHODS AND RESULTS A Lcn8-Cre knock-in mouse line was generated using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. A 37 bp coding sequence of Lcn8 from the ATG start codon was replaced by an NLS-Cre-polyA cassette, resulting in Cre expression and the absence of Lcn8. Epididymal initial segment-specific Cre expression was identified using RT-PCR and western blotting, and the spatial-temporal Cre activity was further confirmed by using the Rosa26tdTomato reporter mice. Immunofluorescence staining showed that active Cre recombinase was present in the principal cells. Histological analyses of sperm and epididymides, and the four-month mating tests, were used to confirm that Cre expression did not affect normal development and male fecundity. CONCLUSIONS The novel Lcn8-Cre mice can be used to establish epididymal initial segment-specific conditional knock-out mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian-Qian Gong
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhi-Lin Dou
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ke-Yi Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jian-Gang Gao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao-Yang Sun
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China.
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Gong QQ, Wang X, Dou ZL, Zhang KY, Liu XG, Gao JG, Sun XY. A novel mouse line with epididymal initial segment-specific expression of Cre recombinase driven by the endogenous Lcn9 promoter. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254802. [PMID: 34310634 PMCID: PMC8312960 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa released from testes undergo a maturation process and acquire the capacity to fertilize ova through epididymal transit. The epididymis is divided into four regions, each with unique morphology, gene profile, luminal microenvironment and distinct function. To study the functions of relevant genes in the epididymal initial segment (IS), a novel IS-specific mouse model, Lcn9-Cre knock-in (KI) mouse line was generated via CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The TAG stop codon was replaced by a 2A-NLS-Cre cassette, resulting in the co-expression of Lcn9 and Cre recombinase. IS-specific Cre expression was first observed from postnatal day 17. Using the Rosa26tdTomato reporter mice, the Cre-mediated DNA recombination was detected exclusively in principal cells. The epididymal IS-specific Cre activity in vivo was further confirmed using Lcn9-Cre mice crossed with a mouse strain carrying Tsc1 floxed alleles (Tsc1flox/+). Cre expression did not affect either normal development or male fecundity. Different from any epididymis-specific Cre mice reported previously, the novel Lcn9-Cre mouse line can be used to introduce entire IS-specific conditional gene editing for gene functional study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian-qian Gong
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhi-lin Dou
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ke-yi Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiang-guo Liu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jian-gang Gao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao-yang Sun
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
- * E-mail:
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