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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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2
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Babou Kammoe RB, Sévigny J. Extracellular nucleotides in smooth muscle contraction. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 220:116005. [PMID: 38142836 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.116005] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular nucleotides and nucleosides are crucial signalling molecules, eliciting diverse biological responses in almost all organs and tissues. These molecules exert their effects by activating specific nucleotide receptors, which are finely regulated by ectonucleotidases that break down their ligands. In this comprehensive review, we aim to elucidate the relevance of extracellular nucleotides as signalling molecules in the context of smooth muscle contraction, considering the modulatory influence of ectonucleotidases on this intricate process. Specifically, we provide a detailed examination of the involvement of extracellular nucleotides in the contraction of non-vascular smooth muscles, including those found in the urinary bladder, the airways, the reproductive system, and the gastrointestinal tract. Furthermore, we present a broader overview of the role of extracellular nucleotides in vascular smooth muscle contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romuald Brice Babou Kammoe
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; Département de microbiologie-infectiologie et d'immunologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Jean Sévigny
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; Département de microbiologie-infectiologie et d'immunologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.
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3
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Cao H, Li L, Liu S, Wang Y, Liu X, Yang F, Dong W. The multifaceted role of extracellular ATP in sperm function: From spermatogenesis to fertilization. Theriogenology 2024; 214:98-106. [PMID: 37865020 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.10.019] [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: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) is a vital signaling molecule involved in various physiological processes within the body. In recent years, studies have revealed its significant role in male reproduction, particularly in sperm function. This review explores the multifaceted role of extracellular ATP in sperm function, from spermatogenesis to fertilization. We discuss the impact of extracellular ATP on spermatogenesis, sperm maturation and sperm-egg fusion, highlighting the complex regulatory mechanisms and potential clinical applications in the context of male infertility. By examining the latest research, we emphasize the crucial role of extracellular ATP in sperm function and propose future research directions to further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heran Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Long Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Shujuan Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Yang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Xianglin Liu
- College of Forestry, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Fangxia Yang
- College of Forestry, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Wuzi Dong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
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4
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Sosnicki DM, Cohen R, Asano A, Nelson JL, Mukai C, Comizzoli P, Travis AJ. Segmental differentiation of the murine epididymis: identification of segment-specific, GM1-enriched vesicles and regulation by luminal fluid factors†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:864-877. [PMID: 37694824 PMCID: PMC10724454 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad120] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The murine epididymis has 10 distinct segments that provide the opportunity to identify compartmentalized cell physiological mechanisms underlying sperm maturation. However, despite the essential role of the epididymis in reproduction, remarkably little is known about segment-specific functions of this organ. Here, we investigate the dramatic segmental localization of the ganglioside GM1, a glycosphingolipid already known to play key roles in sperm capacitation and acrosome exocytosis. Frozen tissue sections of epididymides from adult mice were treated with the binding subunit of cholera toxin conjugated to AlexaFluor 488 to label GM1. We report that GM1-enriched vesicles were found exclusively in principal and clear cells of segment 2. These vesicles were also restricted to the lumen of segment 2 and did not appear to flow with the sperm into segment 3, within the limits of detection by confocal microscopy. Interestingly, this segment-specific presence was altered in several azoospermic mouse models and in wild-type mice after efferent duct ligation. These findings indicate that a lumicrine factor, itself dependent on spermatogenesis, controls this segmental differentiation. The RNA sequencing results confirmed global de-differentiation of the proximal epididymal segments in response to efferent duct ligation. Additionally, GM1 localization on the surface of the sperm head increased as sperm transit through segment 2 and have contact with the GM1-enriched vesicles. This is the first report of segment-specific vesicles and their role in enriching sperm with GM1, a glycosphingolipid known to be critical for sperm function, providing key insights into the segment-specific physiology and function of the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Sosnicki
- Cornell University, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Department of Reproductive Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Roy Cohen
- Cornell University, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Cornell University, Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Atsushi Asano
- University of Tsukuba, Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, Tsukuba, Japan
| | | | - Chinatsu Mukai
- Cornell University, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Department of Reproductive Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alexander J Travis
- Cornell University, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Cornell University, Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
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5
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Fjærvoll HK, Fjærvoll KA, Yang M, Bair J, Utheim TP, Dartt DA. Purinergic 2X 4 (P2X4), but not P2X7, receptors increase cytosolic [Ca 2+] and stimulate mucin secretion in rat conjunctival goblet cells to maintain ocular surface health. Exp Eye Res 2023; 235:109614. [PMID: 37580003 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109614] [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: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Ionotropic purinergic receptors (P2XRs) are activated by ATP and ATP analogs. ATP can be released through ATP-permeable channels such as the pannexin hemichannels. Upon activation, the P2XRs become permeable to Ca2+, a potent stimulator of mucin secretion in conjunctival goblet cells (CGCs). The purpose of this study was to investigate the presence and function of P2XRs in CGCs. We also examined the presence of pannexin hemichannels. Rat first passage CGCs were stained with the goblet cell marker anti-cytokeratin 7 antibody and specific antibodies to P2X1-7 receptors and pannexin 1-3. mRNA expression was determined by RT-PCR using primers specific to P2XRs and pannexins. Proteins were identified with Western blotting (WB) using the same antibodies as for immunofluorescence (IF) microscopy. To study receptor function, CGCs were incubated with Fura 2-AM, exposed to agonists and antagonists, and intracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i) measured. [Ca2+]i was also measured after knock down of P2X4 and P2X7 receptor expression, and when exploiting P2XR specific characteristics. Lastly, mucin secretion was measured after the addition of several P2XR agonists. All P2XRs and pannexins were visualized with IF microscopy, and identified with RT-PCR and WB. [Ca2+]i was significantly increased when stimulated with ATP (10-7-10-4 M). Suramin, a non-selective P2XR antagonist at 10-4 M did not reduce ATP-induced peak [Ca2+]i. The potent P2X7 agonist, BzATP (10-7-10-4 M) increased the [Ca2+]i, although to a lesser extent than ATP. When measuring [Ca2+]i the effect of repeated applications of ATP at 10-5 or 10-6 M the response "desensitized" after 30-60 s. The P2X4 specific antagonist 5-BDBD decreased the P2X4 agonist, 2MeSATP,-induced [Ca2+]i increase. Furthermore, siRNA against the P2X4R, but not the P2X7R, decreased agonist-induced peak [Ca2+]i. ATP (10-5 M), BzATP (10-4 M) and 2MeSATP (10-5 M) induced mucin secretion. We conclude that all seven P2XRs are present in cultured rat CGCs. Of the P2XRs, only activation of the homotrimeric P2X4R appears to increase [Ca2+]i and induce mucin secretion. The P2X4R in CGCs offers a new therapeutic target for protective mucin secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haakon K Fjærvoll
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Medical Student Research Program, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Ketil A Fjærvoll
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Medical Student Research Program, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Menglu Yang
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jeffrey Bair
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Tor P Utheim
- Medical Student Research Program, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Darlene A Dartt
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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6
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Chu X, Baek DS, Li W, Shyp T, Mooney B, Hines MG, Morin GB, Sorensen PH, Dimitrov DS. Human antibodies targeting ENPP1 as candidate therapeutics for cancers. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1070492. [PMID: 36761762 PMCID: PMC9905232 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1070492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) is a type II transmembrane glycoprotein expressed in many tissues. High expression levels of ENPP1 have been observed in many cancer types such as lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and breast cancer. Such overexpression has been associated with poor prognosis in these diseases. Hence, ENPP1 is a potential target for immunotherapy across multiple cancers. Here, we isolated and characterized two high-affinity and specific anti-ENPP1 Fab antibody candidates, 17 and 3G12, from large phage-displayed human Fab libraries. After conversion to IgG1, the binding of both antibodies increased significantly due to avidity effects. Based on these antibodies, we generated antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), IgG-based bispecific T-cell engagers (IbTEs), and CAR T-cells which all exhibited potent killing of ENPP1-expressing cells. Thus, these various antibody-derived modalities are promising therapeutic candidates for cancers expressing human ENPP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojie Chu
- Center for Antibody Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Du-San Baek
- Center for Antibody Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Wei Li
- Center for Antibody Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Taras Shyp
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Brian Mooney
- Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, BC Cancer Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Margaret G Hines
- Center for Antibody Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Gregg B Morin
- Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, BC Cancer Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Poul H Sorensen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Dimiter S Dimitrov
- Center for Antibody Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Abound Bio, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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7
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Belleannée C, Viana AGDA, Lavoie-Ouellet C. Intra and intercellular signals governing sperm maturation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 35:27-38. [PMID: 36592975 DOI: 10.1071/rd22226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
After their production in the testis, spermatozoa do not have the capacity to move progressively and are unable to fertilise an oocyte. They sequentially acquire these abilities following their maturation in the epididymis and their capacitation/hyperactivation in the female reproductive system. As gene transcription is silenced in spermatozoa, extracellular factors released from the epididymal epithelium and from secretory glands allow spermatozoa to acquire bioactive molecules and to undergo intrinsic modifications. These modifications include epigenetic changes and post-translational modifications of endogenous proteins, which are important processes in sperm maturation. This article emphasises the roles played by extracellular factors secreted by the epididymis and accessory glands in the control of sperm intercellular signallings and fertilising abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Belleannée
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Center for Research in Reproduction, Development and Intergenerational Health (CRDSI), CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | | | - Camille Lavoie-Ouellet
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Center for Research in Reproduction, Development and Intergenerational Health (CRDSI), CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, QC, Canada
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8
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Candidate Genes in Bull Semen Production Traits: An Information Approach Review. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9040155. [PMID: 35448653 PMCID: PMC9028852 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9040155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Semen quality plays a crucial role in the successful implementation of breeding programs, especially where artificial insemination (AI) is practiced. Bulls with good semen traits have good fertility and can produce a volume of high semen per ejaculation. The aim of this review is to use an information approach to highlight candidate genes and their relation to bull semen production traits. The use of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) has been demonstrated to be successful in identifying genomic regions and individual variations associated with production traits. Studies have reported over 40 genes associated with semen traits using Illumina BeadChip single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs).
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9
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Belardin LB, Brochu K, Légaré C, Battistone MA, Breton S. Purinergic signaling in the male reproductive tract. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1049511. [PMID: 36419764 PMCID: PMC9676935 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1049511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Purinergic receptors are ubiquitously expressed throughout the body and they participate in the autocrine and paracrine regulation of cell function during normal physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Extracellular nucleotides activate several types of plasma membrane purinergic receptors that form three distinct families: P1 receptors are activated by adenosine, P2X receptors are activated by ATP, and P2Y receptors are activated by nucleotides including ATP, ADP, UTP, UDP, and UDP-glucose. These specific pharmacological fingerprints and the distinct intracellular signaling pathways they trigger govern a large variety of cellular responses in an organ-specific manner. As such, purinergic signaling regulates several physiological cell functions, including cell proliferation, differentiation and death, smooth muscle contraction, vasodilatation, and transepithelial transport of water, solute, and protons, as well as pathological pathways such as inflammation. While purinergic signaling was first discovered more than 90 years ago, we are just starting to understand how deleterious signals mediated through purinergic receptors may be involved in male infertility. A large fraction of male infertility remains unexplained illustrating our poor understanding of male reproductive health. Purinergic signaling plays a variety of physiological and pathophysiological roles in the male reproductive system, but our knowledge in this context remains limited. This review focuses on the distribution of purinergic receptors in the testis, epididymis, and vas deferens, and their role in the establishment and maintenance of male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Berloffa Belardin
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Research Centre and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Kéliane Brochu
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Research Centre and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Christine Légaré
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Research Centre and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Maria Agustina Battistone
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Research Centre and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Sylvie Breton,
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10
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Liu BY, Zhang BL, Gao DY, Li Q, Xu XY, Shum W. Epididymal epithelial degeneration and lipid metabolism impairment account for male infertility in occludin knockout mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1069319. [PMID: 36518247 PMCID: PMC9742356 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1069319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Occludin (OCLN) is a tight junction protein and Ocln deletion mutation causes male infertility in mice. However, the role of OCLN in male reproductive system remains unknown. In this study, we used an interdisciplinary approach to elucidate the underlying mechanism of male infertility in related to OCLN function, including Ocln knockout mice as well as a combined omics analysis and immunofluorescent labelling. Our results showed that the epididymis of Ocln-null mice displayed a phenomenon resembling epididymal sperm granuloma, which occurred especially in the junctional region between caput and corpus epididymidis. Sperm motility and fertilisation capacity were also impaired in these Ocln-null mice, accompanied by enlarged tubules in the proximal regions and degeneration in the distal regions of epididymis. Cellular localization analysis showed that OCLN immunofluorescence was enriched only in the apical junction of epithelial principal cells in the proximal regions of epididymis. Integrative omics analysis revealed the downregulation of gene clusters enriched in acid secretion and fatty acid metabolism in the Ocln-null epididymis, especially the enzymes related to the unsaturated arachidonic acid pathway. The number of proton-pump V-ATPase-expression clear cells, a key player of luminal acidification in the epididymis, declined drastically from prepubertal age before sperm arrival but not in the early postnatal age. This was accompanied by programmed cell death of clear cells and increased pH in the epididymal fluid of OCLN-deficient mice. The lipidomics results showed significantly increased levels of specific DAGs conjugated to unsaturated fatty acids in the Ocln-mutant. Immunofluorescent labelling showed that the arachidonic acid converting enzyme PTGDS and phospholipase PLA2g12a were prominently altered in the principal cells and luminal contents of the Ocln-mutant epididymis. Whereas the carboxylate ester lipase CES1, originally enriched in the WT basal cells, was found upregulated in the Ocln-mutant principal cells. Overall, this study demonstrates that OCLN is essential for maintaining caput-to-corpus epithelial integrity, survival of acid-secreting clear cells, and unsaturated fatty acid catabolism in the mouse epididymis, thereby ensuring sperm maturation and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao Ying Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bao Li Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Da Yuan Gao
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qing Li
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Yu Xu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Winnie Shum
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Winnie Shum,
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11
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Schimming BC, Martins LL, de Oliveira FS, Pinheiro PFF, Domeniconi RF. Morphology and immunolocalization of aquaporins 1 and 9 in the agouti ( Dasyprocta azarae) testis excurrent ducts. Anim Reprod 2021; 18:e20210070. [PMID: 34840612 PMCID: PMC8607849 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2021-0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the morphology and immunoexpression of aquaporins (AQPs) 1 and 9 in the rete testis, efferent ducts, epididymis, and vas deferens in the Azara's agouti (Dasyprocta azarae). For this purpose, ten adult sexually mature animals were used in histologic and immunohistochemical analyses. The Azara's agouti rete testis was labyrinthine and lined with simple cubic epithelium. Ciliated and non-ciliated cells were observed in the epithelium of the efferent ducts. The epididymal cellular population was composed of principal, basal, apical, clear, narrow, and halo cells. The epithelium lining of vas deferens was composed of the principal and basal cells. AQPs 1 and 9 were not expressed in the rete testis. Positive reaction to AQP1 was observed at the luminal border of non-ciliated cells of the efferent ducts, and in the peritubular stroma and blood vessels in the epididymis, and vas deferens. AQP9 was immunolocalized in the epithelial cells in the efferent ducts, epididymis and vas deferens. The morphology of Azara's agouti testis excurrent ducts is similar to that reported for other rodents such as Cuniculus paca. The immunolocalization results of the AQPs suggest that the expression of AQPs is species-specific due to differences in localization and expression when compared to studies in other mammals species. The knowledge about the expression of AQPs in Azara's agouti testis excurrent ducts is essential to support future reproductive studies on this animal, since previous studies show that AQPs may be biomarkers of male fertility and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Cesar Schimming
- Departamento de Anatomia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Leandro Luis Martins
- Departamento de Anatomia, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brasil
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12
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Chen H, Alves MBR, Belleannée C. Contribution of epididymal epithelial cell functions to sperm epigenetic changes and the health of progeny. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:51-66. [PMID: 34618012 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatozoa acquire their motility and fertilizing abilities during their maturation through the epididymis. This process is controlled by epididymal epithelial cells that possess features adapted to sense and respond to their surrounding environment and to communicate with spermatozoa. During the past decade, new intercellular communication processes have been discovered, including the secretion and transport of molecules from the epithelium to spermatozoa via extracellular vesicles (EVs), as well as sensing of the intraluminal milieu by cellular extensions. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review addresses recent findings regarding epididymal epithelial cell features and interactions between spermatozoa and the epididymal epithelium as well as epigenetic modifications undergone by spermatozoa during transit through the epididymal microenvironment. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search was conducted in Pubmed with the keyword 'epididymis'. Results were filtered on original research articles published from 2009 to 2021 and written in the English language. One hundred fifteen original articles presenting recent advancements on the epididymis contribution to sperm maturation were selected. Some additional papers cited in the primary reference were also included. A special focus was given to higher mammalian species, particularly rodents, bovines and humans, that are the most studied in this field. OUTCOMES This review provides novel insights into the contribution of epididymal epithelium and EVs to post-testicular sperm maturation. First, new immune cell populations have been described in the epididymis, where they are proposed to play a role in protecting the environment surrounding sperm against infections or autoimmune responses. Second, novel epididymal cell extensions, including dendrites, axopodia and primary cilia, have been identified as sensors of the environment surrounding sperm. Third, new functions have been outlined for epididymal EVs, which modify the sperm epigenetic profile and participate in transgenerational epigenetic inheritance of paternal traits. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Although the majority of these findings result from studies in rodents, this fundamental research will ultimately improve our knowledge of human reproductive physiopathologies. Recent discoveries linking sperm epigenetic modifications with paternal environmental exposure and progeny outcome further stress the importance of advancing fundamental research on the epididymis. From this, new therapeutic options for infertile couples and better counseling strategies may arise to increase positive health outcomes in children conceived either naturally or with ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Clémence Belleannée
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
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Wang H, Ye F, Zhou C, Cheng Q, Chen H. High expression of ENPP1 in high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma predicts poor prognosis and as a molecular therapy target. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245733. [PMID: 33635867 PMCID: PMC7909685 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that the expression of ENPP1 is related to differentiation, death, dissemination and chemosensitivity of tumor cells. So far, there is no research in ovarian carcinoma. This study aimed at exploring the role of ENPP1 gene in ovarian carcinoma, the relationship with prognostic indicators and chemotherapy resistance, and investigates the possibility of molecular targeted therapy. The expression of ENPP1 in 41 normal ovarian epithelial tissues, 97 ovarian serous cystadenoma and 103 HGSOC tissues was detected by IHC. In ovarian cancer tissues and ovarian cancer cell lines, mRNA and protein expression of ENPP1 was determined by qRT-PCR and Western blot. The ENPP1 expression was knockdowned by siRNA. Cell proliferation was measured with the BrdU Cell Proliferation ELISA. Cell migration and invasion were detected by Wound-Healing, Transwell migration and Matrigel invasion assay. Caspase 3 activity was determined by the CaspACE. The expression of EMT markers such as E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and Vimentin was measured, and the expression of PCNA and MMP9 was also be detected. The results showed that the expression of ENPP1 was significantly increased in high-grade ovarian serous carcinoma, the number of strong expression was 85.4% (22.3%+63.1%) and only 1.03% (1.03%+0.0%) in serous cystadenoma, but no in normal ovarian epithelium (P< 0.05). And the stronger the expression of ENPP1, the later the FIGO stage and the poorer differentiation of cells (P = 0.001 or <0.001, respectively). However, no correlation was found between the expression of ENPP1 and chemosensitivity. ENPP1 was also highly expressed in ovarian cancer tissues and in epithelial ovarian cancer cell lines (A2780, CaoV3, OVCAR3, SKOV3 and 3ao). After down-regulation of ENPP1 expression by RNA interference, the cell proliferation, migration and invasion of ovarian cancer cell decreased significantly, the expression of apoptosis related gene caspase 3 increased significantly, while the expression of PCNA and MMP9 was significantly down regulated. In addition, EMT biological characteristics of A2780 and SKOV3 cells were also inhibited. In summary, the increased expression of ENPP1 may be related to the occurrence of HGSOC, and indicate that the disease progresses rapidly and the prognosis is poor. ENPP1 may be considered as a potential molecular therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanzhi Wang
- Women’s Reproductive Health Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Feng Ye
- Women’s Reproductive Health Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Caiyun Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Qi Cheng
- Women’s Reproductive Health Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Huaizeng Chen
- Women’s Reproductive Health Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
- * E-mail:
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Battistone MA, Spallanzani RG, Mendelsohn AC, Capen D, Nair AV, Brown D, Breton S. Novel role of proton-secreting epithelial cells in sperm maturation and mucosal immunity. J Cell Sci 2019; 133:jcs.233239. [PMID: 31636115 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.233239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial cells are immune sensors and mediators that constitute the first line of defense against infections. Using the epididymis, a model for studying tubular organs, we uncovered a novel and unexpected role for professional proton-secreting 'clear cells' in sperm maturation and immune defense. The epididymal epithelium participates in the maturation of spermatozoa via the establishment of an acidic milieu and transfer of proteins to sperm cells, a poorly characterized process. We show that proton-secreting clear cells express mRNA transcripts and proteins that are acquired by maturing sperm, and that they establish close interactions with luminal spermatozoa via newly described 'nanotubes'. Mechanistic studies show that injection of bacterial antigens in vivo induces chemokine expression in clear cells, followed by macrophage recruitment into the organ. Injection of an inflammatory intermediate mediator (IFN-γ) increased Cxcl10 expression in clear cells, revealing their participation as sensors and mediators of inflammation. The functional diversity adopted by clear cells might represent a generalized phenomenon by which similar epithelial cells decode signals, communicate with neighbors and mediate mucosal immunity, depending on their precise location within an organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Battistone
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology and Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Raul German Spallanzani
- Division of Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, and Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alexandra C Mendelsohn
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology and Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Diane Capen
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology and Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Anil V Nair
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology and Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Dennis Brown
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology and Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology and Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States
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15
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Reiss AB, Grossfeld D, Kasselman LJ, Renna HA, Vernice NA, Drewes W, Konig J, Carsons SE, DeLeon J. Adenosine and the Cardiovascular System. Am J Cardiovasc Drugs 2019; 19:449-464. [PMID: 30972618 PMCID: PMC6773474 DOI: 10.1007/s40256-019-00345-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Adenosine is an endogenous nucleoside with a short half-life that regulates many physiological functions involving the heart and cardiovascular system. Among the cardioprotective properties of adenosine are its ability to improve cholesterol homeostasis, impact platelet aggregation and inhibit the inflammatory response. Through modulation of forward and reverse cholesterol transport pathways, adenosine can improve cholesterol balance and thereby protect macrophages from lipid overload and foam cell transformation. The function of adenosine is controlled through four G-protein coupled receptors: A1, A2A, A2B and A3. Of these four, it is the A2A receptor that is in a large part responsible for the anti-inflammatory effects of adenosine as well as defense against excess cholesterol accumulation. A2A receptor agonists are the focus of efforts by the pharmaceutical industry to develop new cardiovascular therapies, and pharmacological actions of the atheroprotective and anti-inflammatory drug methotrexate are mediated via release of adenosine and activation of the A2A receptor. Also relevant are anti-platelet agents that decrease platelet activation and adhesion and reduce thrombotic occlusion of atherosclerotic arteries by antagonizing adenosine diphosphate-mediated effects on the P2Y12 receptor. The purpose of this review is to discuss the effects of adenosine on cell types found in the arterial wall that are involved in atherosclerosis, to describe use of adenosine and its receptor ligands to limit excess cholesterol accumulation and to explore clinically applied anti-platelet effects. Its impact on electrophysiology and use as a clinical treatment for myocardial preservation during infarct will also be covered. Results of cell culture studies, animal experiments and human clinical trials are presented. Finally, we highlight future directions of research in the application of adenosine as an approach to improving outcomes in persons with cardiovascular disease.
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16
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Breton S, Nair AV, Battistone MA. Epithelial dynamics in the epididymis: role in the maturation, protection, and storage of spermatozoa. Andrology 2019; 7:631-643. [PMID: 31044554 PMCID: PMC6688936 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial cells line the lumen of tubular organs and are key players in their respective functions. They establish a unique luminal environment by providing a protective barrier and by performing vectorial transport of ions, nutrients, solutes, proteins, and water. Complex intercellular communication networks, specific for each organ, ensure their interaction with adjacent epithelial and non-epithelial cells, allowing them to respond to and modulate their immediate environment. In the epididymis, several epithelial cell types work in a concerted manner to establish a luminal acidic milieu that is essential for the post-testicular maturation and storage of spermatozoa. The epididymis also prevents autoimmune responses against auto-antigenic spermatozoa, while ensuring protection against ascending and blood pathogens. This is achieved by a network of immune cells that are in close contact and interact with epithelial cells. This review highlights the coordinated interactions between spermatozoa, basal cells, principal cells, narrow cells, clear cells, and immune cells that contribute to the maturation, protection, selection, and storage of spermatozoa in the lumen of the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Breton
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - A V Nair
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M A Battistone
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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17
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Battistone MA, Merkulova M, Park Y, Peralta MA, Gombar F, Brown D, Breton S. Unravelling purinergic regulation in the epididymis: activation of V-ATPase-dependent acidification by luminal ATP and adenosine. J Physiol 2019; 597:1957-1973. [PMID: 30746715 PMCID: PMC6441927 DOI: 10.1113/jp277565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS In the epididymis, elaborate communication networks between epithelial cells are important with respect to establishing an optimal acidic luminal environment for the maturation and storage of spermatozoa, which is essential for male fertility. Proton secretion by epididymal clear cells is achieved via the proton pumping V-ATPase located in their apical membrane. In the present study, we dissect the molecular mechanisms by which clear cells respond to luminal ATP and adenosine to modulate their acidifying activity via the adenosine receptor ADORA2B and the pH-sensitive ATP receptor P2X4. We demonstrate that the hydrolysis of ATP to produce adenosine by ectonucleotidases plays a key role in V-ATPase-dependent proton secretion, and is part of a feedback loop that ensures acidification of the luminal compartment These results help us better understand how professional proton-secreting cells respond to extracellular cues to modulate their functions, and how they communicate with neighbouring cells. ABSTRACT Cell-cell cross-talk is crucial for the dynamic function of epithelia, although how epithelial cells detect and respond to variations in extracellular stimuli to modulate their environment remains incompletely understood. In the present study, we used the epididymis as a model system to investigate epithelial cell regulation by luminal factors. In the epididymis, elaborate communication networks between the different epithelial cell types are important for establishing an optimal acidic luminal environment for the maturation and storage of spermatozoa. In particular, clear cells (CCs) secrete protons into the lumen via the proton pumping V-ATPase located in their apical membrane, a process that is activated by luminal alkalinization. However, how CCs detect luminal pH variations to modulate their function remains uncharacterized. Purinergic regulation of epithelial transport is modulated by extracellular pH in other tissues. In the present study, functional analysis of the mouse cauda epididymis perfused in vivo showed that luminal ATP and adenosine modulate the acidifying activity of CCs via the purinergic ADORA2B and P2X4 receptors, and that luminal adenosine content is itself regulated by luminal pH. Altogether, our observations illustrate mechanisms by which CCs are activated by pH sensitive P2X4 receptor and ectonucleotidases, providing a feedback mechanism for the maintenance of luminal pH. These novel mechanisms by which professional proton-secreting cells respond to extracellular cues to modulate their functions, as well as how they communicate with neighbouring cells, might be translatable to other acidifying epithelia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A. Battistone
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for System Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of MedicineMassachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Maria Merkulova
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for System Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of MedicineMassachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Yoo‐Jin Park
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for System Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of MedicineMassachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Maria A. Peralta
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for System Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of MedicineMassachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Flavia Gombar
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for System Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of MedicineMassachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Dennis Brown
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for System Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of MedicineMassachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for System Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of MedicineMassachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
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18
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Calcatera SM, Reicks D, Pratt SL. Novel and differentially abundant microRNAs in sperm cells, seminal plasma, and serum of boars due to porcine reproduction and respiratory syndrome virus infection. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 199:60-71. [PMID: 30455097 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to identify and determine relative abundance of miRNAs in boar sperm, seminal plasma (SP), and serum pre- and post-viral infection. Functional enrichment analyses on predicted targets of miRNAs of interest were performed. Boars (n = 6) were inoculated with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSv) strain 1-8-4 (Day 0). Semen and serum were collected on Day -2 and 6. Sperm and SP were separated and aliquots were flash frozen and stored at -80 °C. Serum was frozen and stored at -80 °C. Total RNA was isolated from sperm and SP samples and subjected to RNA sequencing. Microarray analysis was performed using the Day -2 and 6 RNA samples from serum, sperm and SP. Potential miRNA targets were predicted using miRanda 3.3a and targets were then analyzed for enrichment of Gene Ontology) and InterPro terms and were considered to be enriched if P < 0.01 using the Bonferroni correction. Microarray analyses resulted in 83, 13, and 10 miRNAs with differences in abundances in sperm, serum, and SP, respectively, when comparing Day -2 and 6. Results from enrichment analyses indicated that the predicted targets of 35, nine, and five miRNAs with differences in abundances for sperm, SP, and serum, respectively, that have functions and/or conserved protein domains that are enriched when compared to the pig genome. Enriched terms for P2X purinoceptors were identified for sperm, SP and serum. Enriched terms for cell adhesion were identified for sperm and serum transcripts. Enriched terms for cell signaling were identified for sperm and SP transcripts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M Calcatera
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States
| | - Darwin Reicks
- P.O. Box 314, 314 S. 3rd St., St. Peter, MN, 5608, United States
| | - Scott L Pratt
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States.
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Park YJ, Battistone MA, Kim B, Breton S. Relative contribution of clear cells and principal cells to luminal pH in the mouse epididymis. Biol Reprod 2018; 96:366-375. [PMID: 28203710 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.144857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Revised: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
While spermatozoa undergo epididymal maturation, they remain quiescent thanks to the establishment of a low luminal pH. This study is aimed at determining how epithelial cells lining the epididymal lumen work together to maintain and regulate this acidic milieu. In particular, we examined the relative contribution of clear cells (CCs) and principal cells (PCs) to this process. Functional analysis in the mouse cauda epididymidis (Cd) perfused in vivo showed that the pH of a control solution remained constant at pH 6.6 after perfusion through the Cd lumen. In contrast, the pH of both an acidic (pH 5.8) and alkaline (pH 7.8) perfusate was progressively restored toward the control acidic pH. Pharmacological studies indicated the contribution of cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator, previously shown to be present in the apical membrane of PCs, to the recovery from an acidic pH of 5.8. In addition, we found that CCs and PCs equally contribute to the recovery from an alkaline of 7.8, via the H+ pumping vacuolar ATPase (V-ATPase) located in CCs, and the Na+/H+ exchanger type 3 (NHE3) located in PCs. Immunofluorescence labeling showed apical membrane accumulation of the V-ATPase in CCs at pH 7.8, and its internalization at pH 5.8 compared to pH 6.6. Immunofluorescence showed expression of NHE3, but absence of NHE2, in PCs located in the Cd. RT-PCR and western blotting showed expression of NHE3 in all epididymal regions. Luminal 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)adenosine 3΄,5΄-cyclic monophosphate (cpt-cAMP) partially inhibited luminal pH recovery from pH 7.8. However, cpt-cAMP induced an increase in V-ATPase apical membrane accumulation at this pH. Cell fractionation studies showed the apical accumulation of NHE3 from intracellular vesicles at pH 7.8 versus 6.6, and prevention of this effect by cpt-cAMP. These results indicate the participation of both CCs and PCs in the regulation of luminal pH in the epididymis. Our study also shows the dual role of PCs in HCO3− and H+ secretion, and that this switch from base to acid secretion depends on the luminal environment. Characterization of the respective roles of CCs and PCs in the regulation of the optimal luminal condition for epididymal sperm maturation should provide new frameworks for the evaluation and treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoo-Jin Park
- Department of Laboratory Medicine,College of Medicine,The Catholic University of Korea,Seoul,Republic of Korea
| | - Maria Agustina Battistone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME-CONICET), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Bongki Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea.,Division of Biomedical Engineering, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Yongin, Korea
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Lesieur, R&D Center ESPCI ParisTech - CNRS, Coudekerque-Branche, France
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20
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Bourgeois S, Bounoure L, Mouro-Chanteloup I, Colin Y, Brown D, Wagner CA. The ammonia transporter RhCG modulates urinary acidification by interacting with the vacuolar proton-ATPases in renal intercalated cells. Kidney Int 2018; 93:390-402. [PMID: 29054531 PMCID: PMC6166241 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2017.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 07/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Ammonium, stemming from renal ammoniagenesis, is a major urinary proton buffer and is excreted along the collecting duct. This process depends on the concomitant secretion of ammonia by the ammonia channel RhCG and of protons by the vacuolar-type proton-ATPase pump. Thus, urinary ammonium content and urinary acidification are tightly linked. However, mice lacking Rhcg excrete more alkaline urine despite lower urinary ammonium, suggesting an unexpected role of Rhcg in urinary acidification. RhCG and the B1 and B2 proton-ATPase subunits could be co-immunoprecipitated from kidney. In ex vivo microperfused cortical collecting ducts (CCD) proton-ATPase activity was drastically reduced in the absence of Rhcg. Conversely, overexpression of RhCG in HEK293 cells resulted in higher proton secretion rates and increased B1 proton-ATPase mRNA expression. However, in kidneys from Rhcg-/- mice the expression of only B1 and B2 subunits was altered. Immunolocalization of proton-ATPase subunits together with immuno-gold detection of the A proton-ATPase subunit showed similar localization and density of staining in kidneys from Rhcg+/+ and Rhcg-/-mice. In order to test for a reciprocal effect of intercalated cell proton-ATPases on Rhcg activity, we assessed Rhcg and proton-ATPase activities in microperfused CCD from Atp6v1b1-/- mice and showed reduced proton-ATPase activity without altering Rhcg activity. Thus, RhCG and proton-ATPase are located within the same cellular protein complex. RhCG may modulate proton-ATPase function and urinary acidification, whereas proton-ATPase activity does not affect RhCG function. This mechanism may help to coordinate ammonia and proton secretion beyond physicochemical driving forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soline Bourgeois
- Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lisa Bounoure
- Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Yves Colin
- UMR_S1134, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, INTS, Labex GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Dennis Brown
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carsten A Wagner
- Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Battistone MA, Nair AV, Barton CR, Liberman RN, Peralta MA, Capen DE, Brown D, Breton S. Extracellular Adenosine Stimulates Vacuolar ATPase-Dependent Proton Secretion in Medullary Intercalated Cells. J Am Soc Nephrol 2017; 29:545-556. [PMID: 29222395 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2017060643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Acidosis is an important complication of AKI and CKD. Renal intercalated cells (ICs) express the proton pumping vacuolar H+-ATPase (V-ATPase) and are extensively involved in acid-base homeostasis. H+ secretion in type A intercalated cells (A-ICs) is regulated by apical vesicle recycling and stimulated by cAMP. In other cell types, cAMP is increased by extracellular agonists, including adenosine, through purinergic receptors. Adenosine is a Food and Drug Administration-approved drug, but very little is known about the effect of adenosine on IC function. Therefore, we investigated the role of adenosine in the regulation of V-ATPase in ICs. Intravenous treatment of mice with adenosine or agonists of ADORA2A and ADORA2B purinergic P1 receptors induced V-ATPase apical membrane accumulation in medullary A-ICs but not in cortical A-ICs or other IC subtypes. Both receptors are located in A-IC apical membranes, and adenosine injection increased urine adenosine concentration and decreased urine pH. Cell fractionation showed that adenosine or an ADORA2A or ADORA2B agonist induced V-ATPase translocation from vesicles to the plasma membrane and increased protein kinase A (PKA)-dependent protein phosphorylation in purified medullary ICs that were isolated from mice. Either ADORA2A or ADORA2B antagonists or the PKA inhibitor mPKI blocked these effects. Finally, a fluorescence pH assay showed that adenosine activates V-ATPase in isolated medullary ICs. Our study shows that medullary A-ICs respond to luminal adenosine through ADORA2A and ADORA2B receptors in a cAMP/PKA pathway-dependent mechanism to induce V-ATPase-dependent H+ secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Battistone
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology, Nephrology Division, and Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Anil V Nair
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology, Nephrology Division, and Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Claire R Barton
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology, Nephrology Division, and Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Rachel N Liberman
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology, Nephrology Division, and Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Maria A Peralta
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology, Nephrology Division, and Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Diane E Capen
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology, Nephrology Division, and Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dennis Brown
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology, Nephrology Division, and Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology, Nephrology Division, and Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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22
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Honda K, Kim SH, Kelly MC, Burns JC, Constance L, Li X, Zhou F, Hoa M, Kelley MW, Wangemann P, Morell RJ, Griffith AJ. Molecular architecture underlying fluid absorption by the developing inner ear. eLife 2017; 6. [PMID: 28994389 PMCID: PMC5634787 DOI: 10.7554/elife.26851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations of SLC26A4 are a common cause of hearing loss associated with enlargement of the endolymphatic sac (EES). Slc26a4 expression in the developing mouse endolymphatic sac is required for acquisition of normal inner ear structure and function. Here, we show that the mouse endolymphatic sac absorbs fluid in an SLC26A4-dependent fashion. Fluid absorption was sensitive to ouabain and gadolinium but insensitive to benzamil, bafilomycin and S3226. Single-cell RNA-seq analysis of pre- and postnatal endolymphatic sacs demonstrates two types of differentiated cells. Early ribosome-rich cells (RRCs) have a transcriptomic signature suggesting expression and secretion of extracellular proteins, while mature RRCs express genes implicated in innate immunity. The transcriptomic signature of mitochondria-rich cells (MRCs) indicates that they mediate vectorial ion transport. We propose a molecular mechanism for resorption of NaCl by MRCs during development, and conclude that disruption of this mechanism is the root cause of hearing loss associated with EES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiji Honda
- Molecular Biology and Genetics Section, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Sung Huhn Kim
- Anatomy and Physiology Department, Kansas State University, Manhattan, United States
| | - Michael C Kelly
- Developmental Neuroscience Section, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Joseph C Burns
- Developmental Neuroscience Section, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Laura Constance
- Anatomy and Physiology Department, Kansas State University, Manhattan, United States
| | - Xiangming Li
- Anatomy and Physiology Department, Kansas State University, Manhattan, United States
| | - Fei Zhou
- Anatomy and Physiology Department, Kansas State University, Manhattan, United States
| | - Michael Hoa
- Auditory Development and Restoration Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Matthew W Kelley
- Developmental Neuroscience Section, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Philine Wangemann
- Anatomy and Physiology Department, Kansas State University, Manhattan, United States
| | - Robert J Morell
- Genomics and Computational Biology Core, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Andrew J Griffith
- Molecular Biology and Genetics Section, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
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23
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Bellezza I, Minelli A. Adenosine in sperm physiology. Mol Aspects Med 2017; 55:102-109. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2016.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Maréchal L, Guillemette C, Goupil S, Blondin P, Leclerc P, Richard FJ. Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases in human spermatozoa and seminal fluid: Presence of an active PDE10A in human spermatozoa. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2016; 1861:147-156. [PMID: 27836756 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2016.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) plays a crucial role as a signaling molecule for sperm functions such as capacitation, motility and acrosome reaction. It is well known that cAMP degradation by phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzyme has a major impact on sperm functions. The present study was undertaken to characterize cAMP-PDE activity in human semen. METHODS cAMP-PDE activity was measured in human sperm and seminal plasma using family specific PDE inhibitors. Three sperm fractionation methods were applied to assess cAMP-PDE activity in spermatozoa. Western blots were used to validate the presence of specific family in sperm and seminal plasma. RESULTS Using three sperm fractionation methods, we demonstrated that in human sperm, the major cAMP-PDE activity is papaverine-sensitive and thus ascribed to PDE10. In seminal plasma, total cAMP-PDE activity was 1.14±0.39fmol of cAMP hydrolyzed per minute per μg of protein. Using specific inhibitors, we showed that the major cAMP-PDE activity found in human seminal plasma is ascribed to PDE4 and PDE11. Western blot analysis, immunoprecipitation with a specific monoclonal antibody, and mass spectrometry confirmed the presence of PDE10 in human spermatozoa. CONCLUSION This study provides the first demonstration of the presence of functional PDE10 in human spermatozoa and functional PDE4 and PDE11 in human seminal plasma. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE Since the contribution of cyclic nucleotides in several sperm functions is well known, the finding that PDE10 is an active enzyme in human spermatozoa is novel and may lead to new insight into fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loïze Maréchal
- Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Département d'obstétrique, gynécologie et reproduction, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, 2705 Boul. Laurier, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Christine Guillemette
- Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec G1V 0A6, Québec, Canada
| | - Serge Goupil
- Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Département d'obstétrique, gynécologie et reproduction, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, 2705 Boul. Laurier, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Patrick Blondin
- L'Alliance Boviteq Inc, 19320 Grand rang St-François, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2T 5H1, Canada
| | - Pierre Leclerc
- Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Département d'obstétrique, gynécologie et reproduction, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, 2705 Boul. Laurier, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - François J Richard
- Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec G1V 0A6, Québec, Canada.
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Jerczynski O, Lacroix-Pépin N, Boilard E, Calvo E, Bernet A, Fortier MA, Björkgren I, Sipilä P, Belleannée C. Role of Dicer1-Dependent Factors in the Paracrine Regulation of Epididymal Gene Expression. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0163876. [PMID: 27695046 PMCID: PMC5047620 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0163876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Dicer1 is an endoribonuclease involved in the biogenesis of functional molecules such as microRNAs (miRNAs) and endogenous small interfering RNAs (endo-siRNAs). These small non-coding RNAs are important regulators of post-transcriptional gene expression and participate in the control of male fertility. With the knowledge that 1) Dicer1-dependent factors are required for proper sperm maturation in the epididymis, and that 2) miRNAs are potent mediators of intercellular communication in most biological systems, we investigated the role of Dicer1-dependent factors produced by the proximal epididymis (initial segment/caput)- including miRNAs- on the regulation of epididymal gene expression in the distal epididymis regions (i.e. corpus and cauda). To this end, we performed comparative microarray and ANOVA analyses on control vs. Defb41iCre/wt;Dicer1fl/fl mice in which functional Dicer1 is absent from the principal cells of the proximal epididymis. We identified 35 and 33 transcripts that displayed significant expression level changes in the corpus and cauda regions (Fold change > 2 or < -2; p < 0.002), respectively. Among these transcripts, Zn-alpha 2-glycoprotein (Azgp1) encodes for a sperm equatorial protein whose expression in the epididymis of Dicer1 cKO mice is significantly increased compared to controls. In addition, 154 miRNAs, including miR-210, miR-672, miR-191 and miR-204, showed significantly impaired biogenesis in the absence of Dicer1 from the principal cells of the proximal epididymis (Fold change > 2 or < -2; p < 0.01). These miRNAs are secreted via extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from the DC2 epididymal principal cell line, and their expression correlates with target transcripts involved in distinct biological pathways, as evidenced by in silico analysis. Albeit correlative and based on in silico approach, our study proposes that Dicer1-dependent factors trigger- directly or not-significant genes expression changes in distinct regions of this organ. The paracrine control of functions important to post-testicular sperm maturation by Dicer1-dependent factors may open new avenues for the identification of molecular targets important to male fertility control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Jerczynski
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nicolas Lacroix-Pépin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Eric Boilard
- Department of Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ezequiel Calvo
- Endocrinology unit, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Agathe Bernet
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michel A. Fortier
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ida Björkgren
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Petra Sipilä
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Clémence Belleannée
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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26
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Breton S, Ruan YC, Park YJ, Kim B. Regulation of epithelial function, differentiation, and remodeling in the epididymis. Asian J Androl 2016; 18:3-9. [PMID: 26585699 PMCID: PMC4736353 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.165946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is a single convoluted tubule lined by a pseudostratified epithelium. Specialized epididymal epithelial cells, the so-called principal, basal, narrow, and clear cells, establish a unique luminal environment for the maturation and storage of spermatozoa. The epididymis is functionally and structurally divided into several segments and sub-segments that create regionally distinct luminal environments. This organ is immature at birth, and epithelial cells acquire their fully differentiated phenotype during an extended postnatal period, but the factors involved in this complex process remain incompletely characterized. In the adult epididymis, the establishment of an acidic luminal pH and low bicarbonate concentration in the epididymis contributes to preventing premature activation of spermatozoa during their maturation and storage. Clear cells are proton-secreting cells throughout the epididymis, but principal cells have distinct acid/base transport properties, depending on their localization within the epididymis. Basal cells are located in all epididymal segments, but they have a distinct morphology depending on the segment and species examined. How this structural plasticity of basal cells is regulated is discussed here. Also, the role of luminal factors and androgens in the regulation of epithelial cells is reviewed in relation to their respective localization in the proximal versus distal regions of the epididymis. Finally, we describe a novel role for CFTR in tubulogenesis and epithelial cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Breton
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114 and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA,
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27
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Bergeron A, Aragon JP, Guillemette C, Hébert A, Sullivan R, Blondin P, Richard FJ. Characterization of cAMP-phosphodiesterase activity in bovine seminal plasma. Andrology 2016; 4:1123-1130. [PMID: 27565610 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The second messenger cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) has a central role in sperm physiology. Extracellular cAMP can be sequentially degraded into 5'AMP and adenosine by ecto-phosphodiesterases (ecto-PDE) and ecto-nucleotidases, a phenomenon called extracellular cAMP-adenosine pathway. As cAMP-adenosine pathway is involved in sperm capacitation, we hypothesize that extracellular PDEs are functionally present in seminal plasma. Exclusively measuring cAMP-PDE activity, total activity in bovine seminal plasma was 10.1 ± 1.5 fmoles/min/μg. Using different family-specific PDE inhibitors, we showed that in seminal plasma, the major cAMP-PDE activity was papaverine sensitive (47.5%). These data support the presence of PDE10 in bovine seminal plasma and was further confirmed by western blot. In epididymal fluid, total cAMP-PDE activity was 48.2 ± 14.8 fmoles/min/μg and we showed that the major cAMP-PDE activity was 3-isobutyl-methylxanthine insensitive and thus ascribed to PDE8 family. PDE10A mRNAs were found in the testis, epididymis, and seminal vesicles. cAMP-PDE activity is present in bovine seminal plasma and epididymal fluid. The results suggest a role for ecto-PDEs present in those fluids in the signaling pathways involved in sperm functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bergeron
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - J P Aragon
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - C Guillemette
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - A Hébert
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - R Sullivan
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Département Obstétrique, Gynécologie et Reproduction, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - P Blondin
- Boviteq, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - F J Richard
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
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28
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Belleannée C. Extracellular microRNAs from the epididymis as potential mediators of cell-to-cell communication. Asian J Androl 2016; 17:730-6. [PMID: 26178395 PMCID: PMC4577581 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.155532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribonucleic acid (RNA) was previously thought to remain inside cells as an intermediate between genes and proteins during translation. However, it is now estimated that 98% of the mammalian genomic output is transcribed as noncoding RNAs, which are involved in diverse gene expression regulatory mechanisms and can be transferred from one cell to another through extracellular communication. For instance, microRNAs are 22-nucleotide-long noncoding RNAs that are generated by endonuclease cleavage of precursors inside the cells and are secreted as extracellular microRNAs to regulate target cell posttranscriptional gene expression via RNA interference. We and others have shown that different populations of microRNAs are expressed in distinct regions of the human epididymis and regulate the expression of target genes that are involved in the control of male fertility as indicated by knock-out mouse models. Importantly, some microRNAs, including the microRNA-888 (miR-888) cluster that is exclusively expressed in the reproductive system of human and nonhuman primates, are released in the sperm-surrounding fluid in the epididymis via extracellular vesicles, the so-called epididymosomes. In addition to interacting with the membrane of maturing spermatozoa, these extracellular vesicles containing microRNAs communicate with epithelial cells located downstream from their release site, suggesting a role in the luminal exocrine control of epididymal functions. Apart from their potential roles as mediators of intercellular communication within the epididymis, these extracellular microRNAs are potent molecular targets for the noninvasive diagnosis of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Belleannée
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Reproduction, Mother and Youth Health Division, Research Center CHU de Québec, Québec, G1V 4G2, Canada
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29
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30
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Abstract
The H(+) concentration in human blood is kept within very narrow limits, ~40 nmol/L, despite the fact that dietary metabolism generates acid and base loads that are added to the systemic circulation throughout the life of mammals. One of the primary functions of the kidney is to maintain the constancy of systemic acid-base chemistry. The kidney has evolved the capacity to regulate blood acidity by performing three key functions: (i) reabsorb HCO3(-) that is filtered through the glomeruli to prevent its excretion in the urine; (ii) generate a sufficient quantity of new HCO3(-) to compensate for the loss of HCO3(-) resulting from dietary metabolic H(+) loads and loss of HCO3(-) in the urea cycle; and (iii) excrete HCO3(-) (or metabolizable organic anions) following a systemic base load. The ability of the kidney to perform these functions requires that various cell types throughout the nephron respond to changes in acid-base chemistry by modulating specific ion transport and/or metabolic processes in a coordinated fashion such that the urine and renal vein chemistry is altered appropriately. The purpose of the article is to provide the interested reader with a broad review of a field that began historically ~60 years ago with whole animal studies, and has evolved to where we are currently addressing questions related to kidney acid-base regulation at the single protein structure/function level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ira Kurtz
- Division of Nephrology, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA; Brain Research Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
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31
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Azroyan A, Cortez-Retamozo V, Bouley R, Liberman R, Ruan YC, Kiselev E, Jacobson KA, Pittet MJ, Brown D, Breton S. Renal intercalated cells sense and mediate inflammation via the P2Y14 receptor. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0121419. [PMID: 25799465 PMCID: PMC4370445 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0121419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 02/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncontrolled inflammation is one of the leading causes of kidney failure. Pro-inflammatory responses can occur in the absence of infection, a process called sterile inflammation. Here we show that the purinergic receptor P2Y14 (GPR105) is specifically and highly expressed in collecting duct intercalated cells (ICs) and mediates sterile inflammation in the kidney. P2Y14 is activated by UDP-glucose, a damage-associated molecular pattern molecule (DAMP) released by injured cells. We found that UDP-glucose increases pro-inflammatory chemokine expression in ICs as well as MDCK-C11 cells, and UDP-glucose activates the MEK1/2-ERK1/2 pathway in MDCK-C11 cells. These effects were prevented following inhibition of P2Y14 with the small molecule PPTN. Tail vein injection of mice with UDP-glucose induced the recruitment of neutrophils to the renal medulla. This study identifies ICs as novel sensors, mediators and effectors of inflammation in the kidney via P2Y14.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anie Azroyan
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Virna Cortez-Retamozo
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Richard Bouley
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Rachel Liberman
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Ye Chun Ruan
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Evgeny Kiselev
- Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kenneth A. Jacobson
- Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Mikael J. Pittet
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Dennis Brown
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Schachter J, Delgado KV, Barreto-de-Souza V, Bou-Habib DC, Persechini PM, Meyer-Fernandes JR. Inhibition of ecto-ATPase activities impairs HIV-1 infection of macrophages. Immunobiology 2014; 220:589-96. [PMID: 25577295 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2014.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Revised: 11/29/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Nucleotides and nucleosides are secreted into extracellular media at different concentrations as a consequence of different physiologic and pathological conditions. Ecto-nucleotidases, enzymes present on the surface of most cells, hydrolyze these extracellular nucleotides and reduce the concentration of them, thus affecting the activation of different nucleotide and nucleoside receptors. Also, ecto-nucleotidases are present in a number of microorganisms and play important roles in host-pathogen interactions. Here, we characterized the ecto-ATPase activities present on the surface of HIV-1 particle and human macrophages as well. We found that the kinetic properties of HIV-1 and macrophage ecto-ATPases are similar, suggesting that the enzyme is the same. This ecto-ATPase activity was increased in macrophages infected in vitro with HIV-1. Using three different non-related ecto-ATPase inhibitors-POM-1, ARL67156 and BG0-we showed that the inhibition of these macrophage and viral ecto-ATPase activities impairs HIV-1 infection. In addition, we also found that elevated extracellular concentrations of ATP inhibit HIV-1 production by infected macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Schachter
- Campus de Xerem, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia para Pesquisa Translacional em Saúde e Ambiente na Região Amazônica (INPeTAm), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Kelly Valcárcel Delgado
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia para Pesquisa Translacional em Saúde e Ambiente na Região Amazônica (INPeTAm), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Instituto de Biofísica, Carlos Chagas Filho (IBCCF), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Victor Barreto-de-Souza
- Laboratório de Pesquisa sobre o Timo, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Dumith Chequer Bou-Habib
- Laboratório de Pesquisa sobre o Timo, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Pedro Muanis Persechini
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia para Pesquisa Translacional em Saúde e Ambiente na Região Amazônica (INPeTAm), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Instituto de Biofísica, Carlos Chagas Filho (IBCCF), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Kim B, Roy J, Shum WWC, Da Silva N, Breton S. Role of testicular luminal factors on Basal cell elongation and proliferation in the mouse epididymis. Biol Reprod 2014; 92:9. [PMID: 25411392 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.123943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A subset of basal cells (BCs) in the initial segment (IS) of the mouse epididymis has a slender body projection between adjacent epithelial cells. We show here that these projections occasionally cross the apical tight junctions and are in contact with the luminal environment. Luminal testicular factors are critical for the establishment of the IS epithelium, and we investigated their role in the regulation of this luminal sensing property. Efferent duct ligation (EDL) was performed to block luminal flow from the testis without affecting blood flow. Cytokeratin 5 (KRT5) labeling showed a time-dependent reduction of the percentage of BCs with intercellular projections from 1 to 5 days after EDL, compared to controls. Double labeling for caspase-3 and KRT5 showed that a subset of BCs undergoes apoptosis 1 day after EDL. Ki67/KRT5 double labeling showed a low rate of BC proliferation under basal conditions. However, EDL induced a marked increase in the proliferation rate of a subset of BCs 2 days after EDL. A 2-wk treatment with the androgen receptor antagonist flutamide did not affect the number of BCs with intercellular projections, but reduced BC proliferation. Flutamide treatment also reduced the increase in BC proliferation induced 2 days after EDL. We conclude that, in the adult mouse IS, 1) luminal testicular factors play an important role in the ability of BCs to extend their body projection towards the lumen, and are essential for the survival of a subset of BCs; 2) androgens play an important role in the proliferation of some of the BCs that survive the initial insult induced by EDL; and 3) the formation and elongation of BC intercellular projections do not depend on androgens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bongki Kim
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jeremy Roy
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Winnie W C Shum
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nicolas Da Silva
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Abstract
Pannexins (PANXs) are channel-forming proteins implicated in cellular communication through the secretion of biomolecules, such as ATP and glutamate. PANX1 and PANX3 are expressed in the male rat reproductive tract and their levels are regulated by androgens in the epididymis. There is currently no information on the regulation of the Panx1 promoter. The objective of the present study was to characterize the Panx1 promoter in order to understand its regulation in the epididymis. RNA ligase-mediated rapid amplification of cDNA ends identified three transcriptional start sites, at positions -443, -429, and -393. In silico analysis revealed that transcription was initiated downstream of binding sites for CREB and ETV4 transcription factors, in a CpG island context. To determine the importance of this region in gene transactivation, a 2-kb fragment of the promoter was cloned into a vector containing a luciferase reporter gene. Deletion constructs indicated that the highest transactivation levels were achieved with shorter constructs (-973 to -346 and -550 to -346). Electrophoretic mobility shift assay and supershifts indicated that both transcription factors were able to bind to the promoter region. Chromatin immunoprecipitation using rat caput epididymis cells confirmed the binding of ETV4 and CREB on the Panx1 promoter. Site mutation of either the ETV4 or CREB binding site decreased the transactivation of the reporter gene. Previous studies indicated that orchidectomy increased epididymal PANX1 levels. Likewise, we observed an increase in both ETV4 and CREB in orchidectomized rats. These results indicate that ETV4 and cAMP response elements play a role in the transcriptional regulation of Panx1 in the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Dufresne
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Québec, Canada
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Păunescu TG, Shum WWC, Huynh C, Lechner L, Goetze B, Brown D, Breton S. High-resolution helium ion microscopy of epididymal epithelial cells and their interaction with spermatozoa. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:929-37. [PMID: 25015675 PMCID: PMC4172170 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2014] [Revised: 06/20/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
We examined the rat and mouse epididymis using helium ion microscopy (HIM), a novel imaging technology that uses a scanning beam of He(+) ions to produce nanometer resolution images of uncoated biological samples. Various tissue fixation, sectioning and dehydration methods were evaluated for their ability to preserve tissue architecture. The cauda epididymidis was luminally perfused in vivo to remove most spermatozoa and the apical surface of the epithelial lining was exposed. Fixed epididymis samples were then subjected to critical point drying (CPD) and HIM. Apical stereocilia in principal cells and smaller apical membrane extensions in clear cells were clearly distinguishable in both rat and mouse epididymis using this technology. After perfusion with an activating solution containing CPT-cAMP, a permeant analog of cAMP, clear cells exhibited an increase in the number and size of membrane ruffles or microplicae. In contrast, principal cells did not exhibit detectable structural modifications. High-resolution HIM imaging clearly showed the ultrastructure of residual sperm cells, including the presence of concentric rings on the midpiece, and of cytoplasmic droplets in some spermatozoa. Close epithelium-sperm interactions were also detected. We found a number of sperm cells whose heads were anchored within the epididymal epithelium. In certain cases, the surface of the sperm cytoplasmic droplet was covered with vesicle-like structures whose size is consistent with that of epididymosomes. In conclusion, we describe here the first application of HIM technology to the study of the structure and morphology of the rodent epididymis. HIM technology represents a major imaging breakthrough that can be successfully applied to study the epididymis and spermatozoa, with the goal of advancing our understanding of their structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodor G Păunescu
- Department of Medicine, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Simches Research Center, CPZN 8204, 185 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Winnie W C Shum
- Department of Medicine, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Simches Research Center, CPZN 8204, 185 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02114, USA Present address: School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | | | - Dennis Brown
- Department of Medicine, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Simches Research Center, CPZN 8204, 185 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Department of Medicine, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Simches Research Center, CPZN 8204, 185 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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Shum WW, Smith TB, Cortez-Retamozo V, Grigoryeva LS, Roy JW, Hill E, Pittet MJ, Breton S, Da Silva N. Epithelial basal cells are distinct from dendritic cells and macrophages in the mouse epididymis. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:90. [PMID: 24648397 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.116681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelium that lines the epididymal duct establishes the optimal milieu in which spermatozoa mature, acquire motility, and are stored. This finely tuned environment also protects antigenic sperm against pathogens and autoimmunity, which are potential causes of transient or permanent infertility. The epididymal epithelium is pseudostratified and contains basal cells (BCs) that are located beneath other epithelial cells. Previous studies showed that in the mouse epididymis, BCs possess macrophage-like characteristics. However, we previously identified a dense population of cells belonging to the mononuclear phagocyte (MP) system (comprised of macrophages and dendritic cells) in the basal compartment of the mouse epididymis and showed that a subset of MPs express the macrophage marker F4/80. In the present study, we evaluate the distribution of BCs and MPs in the epididymis of transgenic CD11c-EYFP mice, in which EYFP is expressed exclusively in MPs, using antibodies against the BC marker keratin 5 (KRT5) and the macrophage marker F4/80. Immunofluorescence labeling for laminin, a basement membrane marker, showed that BCs and most MPs are located in the basal region of the epithelium. Confocal microscopy showed that in the initial segment, both BCs and MPs project intraepithelial extensions and establish a very intricate network. Flow cytometry experiments demonstrated that epididymal MPs and BCs are phenotypically distinct. BCs do not express F4/80, and MPs do not express KRT5. Therefore, despite their proximity and some morphological similarities with peritubular macrophages and dendritic cells, BCs do not belong to the MP system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winnie W Shum
- Division of Nephrology/Program in Membrane Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling in the reproductive system in health and disease. Purinergic Signal 2014; 10:157-87. [PMID: 24271059 PMCID: PMC3944041 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-013-9399-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There are multiple roles for purinergic signalling in both male and female reproductive organs. ATP, released as a cotransmitter with noradrenaline from sympathetic nerves, contracts smooth muscle via P2X1 receptors in vas deferens, seminal vesicles, prostate and uterus, as well as in blood vessels. Male infertility occurs in P2X1 receptor knockout mice. Both short- and long-term trophic purinergic signalling occurs in reproductive organs. Purinergic signalling is involved in hormone secretion, penile erection, sperm motility and capacitation, and mucous production. Changes in purinoceptor expression occur in pathophysiological conditions, including pre-eclampsia, cancer and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Burnstock
- Autonomic Neuroscience Centre, University College Medical School, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK,
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Hering DM, Olenski K, Kaminski S. Genome-wide association study for poor sperm motility in Holstein-Friesian bulls. Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 146:89-97. [PMID: 24612955 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2013] [Revised: 01/20/2014] [Accepted: 01/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to screen the whole bull genome to identify markers and candidate genes underlying poor sperm motility. The analyzed data set originates from the Polish Holstein-Friesian bull population and consists of 41 Case and 279 Control bulls (selected from 1581 bulls). The most distinguishing trait of case group was very poor sperm motility (average 25.61%) when compared to control samples (average 72.95%). Each bull was genotyped using the Illumina BovineSNP50 BeadChip. Genome-wide association analysis was performed with the use of GoldenHelix SVS7 software. An additive model with a Cohran-Armitage test, Correlation/Trend adjusted by Bonferroni test were used to estimate the effect of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) marker for poor sperm motility. Markers (n=34) reached genome-wide significance. The most significant SNP were located on chromosome 24 (rs110876480), 5 (rs110827324 and rs29011704), and 1 (rs110596818), in the close vicinity of melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R), PDZ domain containing ring finger 4 (PDZRN4) and ethanolamine kinase 1 (ETNK1), olfactory receptor 5K3-like (LOC785875) genes, respectively. For five other candidate genes located close to significant markers (in distance of ca. 1 Mb), namely alkaline phosphatase, liver/bone/kidney (ALPL), tripartite motif containing 36 (TRIM36), 3-hydroxyisobutyrate dehygrogenase (HIBADH), kelch-like 1 (KLHL1), protein kinase C, beta (PRKCB), their potential role in sperm motility was confirmed in the earlier studies. Five additional candidate genes, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), steroid-5-alpha-reductase, alpha polypeptide 2 (SRD5A2), cation channel, sperm associated 1 (CATSPER1) calpain 1 (mu/I) large subunit (CAPN1) were suggested to be significantly associated with sperm motility or semen biochemistry. Results of the present study indicate there is a genetic complexity of poor sperm motility but also indicate there might be a causal polymorphism useful in marker-assisted selection. Identifying genomic regions associated with poor sperm motility may be very important for early recognition of a young sire as unsuitable for effective semen production in artificial insemination centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Hering
- University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Department of Animal Genetics, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - K Olenski
- University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Department of Animal Genetics, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - S Kaminski
- University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Department of Animal Genetics, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland.
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Abstract
Specialized cells in the body express high levels of V-ATPase in their plasma membrane and respond to hormonal and nonhormonal cues to regulate extracellular acidification. Mutations in or loss of some V-ATPase subunits cause several disorders, including renal distal tubular acidosis and male infertility. This review focuses on the regulation of V-ATPase-dependent luminal acidification in renal intercalated cells and epididymal clear cells, which are key players in these physiological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Breton
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology, Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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40
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Arrighi S. Are the basal cells of the mammalian epididymis still an enigma? Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 26:1061-71. [DOI: 10.1071/rd13301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Basal cells are present in the columnar pseudostratified epithelium covering the epididymis of all mammalian species, which regulates the microenvironment where the functionally incompetent germ cells produced by the testis are matured and stored. Striking novelties have come from investigations on epididymal basal cells in the past 30–40 years. In addition to an earlier hypothesised scavenger role for basal cells, linked to their proven extratubular origin and the expression of macrophage antigens, basal cells have been shown to be involved in cell–cell cross-talk, as well as functioning as luminal sensors to regulate the activity of principal and clear cells. Involvement of basal cells in the regulation of electrolyte and water transport by principal cells was hypothesised. This control is suggested to be mediated by the local formation of prostaglandins. Members of the aquaporin (AQP) and/or aquaglyceroporin family (AQP3, AQP7 and AQP8) are also specifically expressed in the rat epididymal basal cells. Transport of glycerol and glycerylphosphorylcholine from the epithelium of the epididymis to the lumen in relation to sperm maturation may be mediated by AQP. Most probably basal cells collaborate to the building up of the blood–epididymis barrier through cell adhesion molecules, implying an involvement in immune control exerted towards sperm cells, which are foreigners in the environment in which they were produced.
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41
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Belleannée C, Calvo É, Caballero J, Sullivan R. Epididymosomes convey different repertoires of microRNAs throughout the bovine epididymis. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:30. [PMID: 23803555 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.110486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Epididymosomes are small membrane vesicles that are secreted by epididymal epithelial cells and are involved in posttesticular sperm maturation. Although their role in protein transfer to the sperm membrane is well documented, we report their capacity to transport microRNAs (miRNAs), which are potent regulators of posttranscriptional gene expression. Using a microperfusion technique combined with a global microarray approach, we demonstrated that epididymosomes from two discrete bovine epididymal regions (caput and cauda) possess distinct miRNA signatures. In addition, we also established that miRNA repertoires contained within epididymosomes differ from those of their parent epithelial cells, suggesting that miRNA populations released from the cells may be selectively sorted. Binding of DilC12-labeled epididymosomes to primary cultured epididymal cells was measured by flow cytometry, and the results indicated that epididymosomes from the median caput and their miRNA content may be incorporated into distal caput epithelial cells. Overall, these findings reveal that distinct miRNA repertoires are released into the intraluminal fluid in a region-specific manner and could be involved in a novel mechanism of intercellular communication throughout the epididymis via epididymosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Belleannée
- CHU de Québec Research Center and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laval University School of Medicine, Quebec, Canada
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42
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Lau WM, Doucet M, Stadel R, Huang D, Weber KL, Kominsky SL. Enpp1: a potential facilitator of breast cancer bone metastasis. PLoS One 2013; 8:e66752. [PMID: 23861746 PMCID: PMC3702501 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2013] [Accepted: 05/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone is the most common site of breast cancer metastasis and once established, it is frequently incurable. Critical to our ability to prevent and treat bone metastasis is the identification of the key factors mediating its establishment and understanding their biological function. To address this issue we previously carried out an in vivo selection process to isolate murine mammary tumor sublines possessing an enhanced ability to colonize the bone. A comparison of gene expression between parental cells and sublines by genome-wide cDNA microarray analysis revealed several potential mediators of bone metastasis, including the pyrophosphate-generating ectoenzyme Enpp1. By qRT-PCR and Western analysis we found that expression of Enpp1 was elevated in human breast cancer cell lines known to produce bone metastasis in animal models compared to non-metastatic and normal mammary epithelial cell lines. Further, in clinical specimens, levels of Enpp1 were significantly elevated in human primary breast tumors relative to normal mammary epithelium, with highest levels observed in breast-bone metastasis as determined by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemical analysis. To examine the potential role of Enpp1 in the development of bone metastasis, Enpp1 expression was stably increased in the breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 and the ability to colonize the bone following intracardiac and direct intratibial injection of athymic nude mice was determined. By both routes of administration, increased expression of Enpp1 enhanced the ability of MDA-MB-231 cells to form tumors in the bone relative to cells expressing vector alone, as determined by digital radiography and histological analysis. Taken together, these data suggest a potential role for Enpp1 in the development of breast cancer bone metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Min Lau
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Michele Doucet
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Ryan Stadel
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - David Huang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kristy L. Weber
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Scott L. Kominsky
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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43
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Roy JW, Hill E, Ruan YC, Vedovelli L, Păunescu TG, Brown D, Breton S. Circulating aldosterone induces the apical accumulation of the proton pumping V-ATPase and increases proton secretion in clear cells in the caput epididymis. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2013; 305:C436-46. [PMID: 23761626 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00410.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Clear cells express the vacuolar proton-pumping H(+)-ATPase (V-ATPase) and acidify the lumen of the epididymis, a process that is essential for male fertility. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) regulates fluid and electrolyte balance in the epididymis, and a previous study showed binding of aldosterone exclusively to epididymal clear cells (Hinton BT, Keefer DA. Steroid Biochem 23: 231-233, 1985). We examined here the role of aldosterone in the regulation of V-ATPase in the epididymis. RT-PCR showed expression of the mineralocorticoid receptor [MR; nuclear receptor subfamily 3, group C member 2 (NR3C2)] and 11-β-dehydrogenase isozyme 2 (HSD11β2) mRNAs specifically in clear cells, isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting from B1-enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) mice. Tail vein injection of adult rats with aldosterone, 1,2-dioctanoyl-sn-glycerol (DOG), or 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)-cAMP (cpt-cAMP) induced V-ATPase apical membrane accumulation and extension of V-ATPase-labeled microvilli in clear cells in the caput epididymis but not in the cauda. V-ATPase activity was measured in EGFP-expressing clear cells using the intracellular pH (pHi)-sensing dye seminaphthorhodafluor-5F-5-(and 6)-carboxylic acid, acetoxymethyl ester acetate (SNARF-5F). Aldosterone induced a rapid increase in the rate of Na(+)- and bicarbonate-independent pHi recovery following an NH4Cl-induced acid load in clear cells isolated from the caput but not the cauda. This effect was abolished by concanamycin A, spironolactone, and chelerythrine but not myristoylated-protein kinase inhibitor (mPKI) or mifepristone. Thus aldosterone increases V-ATPase-dependent proton secretion in clear cells in the caput epididymis via MR/NR3C2 and PKC activation. This study, therefore, identifies aldosterone as an active member of the RAAS for the regulation of luminal acidification in the proximal epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy W Roy
- Center for Systems Biology/Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; and
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44
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Cancer driver-passenger distinction via sporadic human and dog cancer comparison: a proof-of-principle study with colorectal cancer. Oncogene 2013; 33:814-22. [PMID: 23416983 PMCID: PMC3932186 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2013.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2012] [Revised: 11/20/2012] [Accepted: 12/25/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Herein we report a proof of principle study illustrating a novel dog-human comparison strategy that addresses a central aim of cancer research, namely cancer driver–passenger distinction. We previously demonstrated that sporadic canine colorectal cancers (CRCs) share similar molecular pathogenesis mechanisms as their human counterparts. In this study, we compared the genome-wide copy number abnormalities between 29 human- and 10 canine sporadic CRCs. This led to the identification of 73 driver candidate genes (DCGs), altered in both species and with 27 from the whole genome and 46 from dog-human genomic rearrangement breakpoint (GRB) regions, as well as 38 passenger candidate genes (PCGs), altered in humans only and located in GRB regions. We noted that DCGs significantly differ from PCGs in every analysis conducted to assess their cancer relevance and biological functions. Importantly, while PCGs are not enriched in any specific functions, DCGs possess significantly enhanced functionality closely associated with cell proliferation and death regulation, as well as with epithelial cell apicobasal polarity establishment/maintenance. These observations support the notion that, in sporadic CRCs of both species, cell polarity genes not only contribute in preventing cancer cell invasion and spreading, but also likely serve as tumor suppressors by modulating cell growth. This pilot study validates our novel strategy and has uncovered four new potential cell polarity and colorectal tumor suppressor genes (RASA3, NUPL1, DENND5A, and AVL9). Expansion of this study would make more driver-passenger distinctions for cancers with large genomic amplifications or deletions, and address key questions regarding the relationship between cancer pathogenesis and epithelial cell polarity control in mammals.
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45
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Thimm D, Schiedel AC, Sherbiny FF, Hinz S, Hochheiser K, Bertarelli DCG, Maass A, Müller CE. Ligand-specific binding and activation of the human adenosine A(2B) receptor. Biochemistry 2013; 52:726-40. [PMID: 23286920 DOI: 10.1021/bi3012065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Adenosine A(2B) receptors, which play a role in inflammation and cancer, are of considerable interest as novel drug targets. To gain deeper insights into ligand binding and receptor activation, we exchanged amino acids predicted to be close to the binding pocket. The alanine mutants were stably expressed in CHO cells and characterized by radioligand binding and cAMP assays using three structural classes of ligands: xanthine (antagonist), adenosine, and aminopyridine derivatives (agonists). Asn282(7.45) and His280(7.43) were found to stabilize the binding site by intramolecular hydrogen bond formation as in the related A(2A) receptor subtype. Trp247(6.48), Val250(6.51), and particularly Ser279(7.42) were shown to be important for binding of nucleosidic agonists. Leu81(3.28), Asn186(5.42), and Val250(6.51) were discovered to be crucial for binding of the xanthine-derived antagonist PSB-603. Leu81(3.28), which is not conserved among adenosine receptor subtypes, may be important for the high selectivity of PSB-603. The N186(5.42)A mutant resulted in an increased potency for agonists. The interactions of the non-nucleosidic agonist BAY60-6583 were different from those of the nucleosides: while BAY60-6583 appeared not to interact with Ser279(7.42), its interactions with Trp247(6.48) and Val250(6.51) were significantly weaker compared to those of NECA. Moreover, our results discount the hypothesis of Trp247(6.48) serving as a "toogle switch" because BAY60-6583 was able to activate the corresponding mutant. This study reveals distinct interactions of structurally diverse ligands with the human A(2B) receptor and differences between closely related receptor subtypes (A(2B) and A(2A)). It will contribute to the understanding of G protein-coupled receptor function and advance A(2B) receptor ligand design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Thimm
- PharmaCenter Bonn, Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical Chemistry I, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
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46
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Ruan YC, Shum WWC, Belleannée C, Da Silva N, Breton S. ATP secretion in the male reproductive tract: essential role of CFTR. J Physiol 2012; 590:4209-22. [PMID: 22711960 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2012.230581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular ATP is essential for the function of the epididymis and spermatozoa, but ATP release in the epididymis remains uncharacterized. We investigated here whether epithelial cells release ATP into the lumen of the epididymis, and we examined the role of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), a Cl(-) and HCO(3)(-) conducting ion channel known to be associated with male fertility, in this process. Immunofluorescence labelling of mouse cauda epididymidis showed expression of CFTR in principal cells but not in other epithelial cells. CFTR mRNA was not detectable in clear cells isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) from B1-EGFP mice, which express enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) exclusively in these cells in the epididymis. ATP release was detected from the mouse epididymal principal cell line (DC2) and increased by adrenaline and forskolin. Inhibition of CFTR with CFTR(inh172) and transfection with CFTR-specific siRNAs in DC2 cells reduced basal and forskolin-activated ATP release. CFTR-dependent ATP release was also observed in primary cultures of mouse epididymal epithelial cells. In addition, steady-state ATP release was detected in vivo in mice, by measuring ATP concentration in a solution perfused through the lumen of the cauda epididymidis tubule and collected by cannulation of the vas deferens. Luminal CFTR(inh172) reduced the ATP concentration detected in the perfusate. This study shows that CFTR is involved in the regulation of ATP release from principal cells in the cauda epididymidis. Given that mutations in CFTR are a leading cause of male infertility, we propose that defective ATP signalling in the epididymis might contribute to dysfunction of the male reproductive tract associated with these mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Chun Ruan
- Center for Systems Biology/Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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47
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Belleannée C, Thimon V, Sullivan R. Region-specific gene expression in the epididymis. Cell Tissue Res 2012; 349:717-31. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-012-1381-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2011] [Accepted: 02/10/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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48
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49
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Novak I. Purinergic signalling in epithelial ion transport: regulation of secretion and absorption. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2011; 202:501-22. [PMID: 21073662 DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-1716.2010.02225.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular ATP, the energy source for many reactions, is crucial for the activity of plasma membrane pumps and, thus, for the maintenance of transmembrane ion gradients. Nevertheless, ATP and other nucleotides/nucleosides are also extracellular molecules that regulate diverse cellular functions, including ion transport. In this review, I will first introduce the main components of the extracellular ATP signalling, which have become known as the purinergic signalling system. With more than 50 components or processes, just at cell membranes, it ranks as one of the most versatile signalling systems. This multitude of system components may enable differentiated regulation of diverse epithelial functions. As epithelia probably face the widest variety of potential ATP-releasing stimuli, a special attention will be given to stimuli and mechanisms of ATP release with a focus on exocytosis. Subsequently, I will consider membrane transport of major ions (Cl(-) , HCO(3)(-) , K(+) and Na(+) ) and integrate possible regulatory functions of P2Y2, P2Y4, P2Y6, P2Y11, P2X4, P2X7 and adenosine receptors in some selected epithelia at the cellular level. Some purinergic receptors have noteworthy roles. For example, many studies to date indicate that the P2Y2 receptor is one common denominator in regulating ion channels on both the luminal and basolateral membranes of both secretory and absorptive epithelia. In exocrine glands though, P2X4 and P2X7 receptors act as cation channels and, possibly, as co-regulators of secretion. On an organ level, both receptor types can exert physiological functions and together with other partners in the purinergic signalling, integrated models for epithelial secretion and absorption are emerging.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Novak
- Department of Biology, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Wagner CA. Rho rocks H⁺-ATPases. Focus on "Regulation of V-ATPase recycling via a RhoA- and ROCKII-dependent pathway in epididymal clear cells". Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2011; 301:C18-20. [PMID: 21543741 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00134.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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