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Qi HY, Zhao Z, Wei BH, Li ZF, Tan FQ, Yang WX. ERK/CREB and p38 MAPK/MMP14 Signaling Pathway Influences Spermatogenesis through Regulating the Expression of Junctional Proteins in Eriocheir sinensis Testis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7361. [PMID: 39000467 PMCID: PMC11242087 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The hemolymph-testis barrier (HTB) is a reproduction barrier in Crustacea, guaranteeing the safe and smooth process of spermatogenesis, which is similar to the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in mammals. The MAPK signaling pathway plays an essential role in spermatogenesis and maintenance of the BTB. However, only a few studies have focused on the influence of MAPK on crustacean reproduction. In the present study, we knocked down and inhibited MAPK in Eriocheir sinensis. Increased defects in spermatogenesis were observed, concurrently with a damaged HTB. Further research revealed that es-MMP14 functions downstream of ERK and p38 MAPK and degrades junctional proteins (Pinin and ZO-1); es-CREB functions in the ERK cascade as a transcription factor of ZO-1. In addition, when es-MMP14 and es-CREB were deleted, the defects in HTB and spermatogenesis aligned with abnormalities in the MAPK. However, JNK impacts the integrity of the HTB by changing the distribution of intercellular junctions. In summary, the MAPK signaling pathway maintains HTB integrity and spermatogenesis through es-MMP14 and es-CREB, which provides insights into the evolution of gene function during barrier evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Yu Qi
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhan Zhao
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Bang-Hong Wei
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhen-Fang Li
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Fu-Qing Tan
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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2
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Karoii DH, Azizi H, Skutella T. Whole transcriptome analysis to identify non-coding RNA regulators and hub genes in sperm of non-obstructive azoospermia by microarray, single-cell RNA sequencing, weighted gene co-expression network analysis, and mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA interaction analysis. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:583. [PMID: 38858625 PMCID: PMC11165898 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10506-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The issue of male fertility is becoming increasingly common due to genetic differences inherited over generations. Gene expression and evaluation of non-coding RNA (ncRNA), crucial for sperm development, are significant factors. This gene expression can affect sperm motility and, consequently, fertility. Understanding the intricate protein interactions that play essential roles in sperm differentiation and development is vital. This knowledge could lead to more effective treatments and interventions for male infertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS Our research aim to identify new and key genes and ncRNA involved in non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), improving genetic diagnosis and offering more accurate estimates for successful sperm extraction based on an individual's genotype. RESULTS We analyzed the transcript of three NOA patients who tested negative for genetic sperm issues, employing comprehensive genome-wide analysis of approximately 50,000 transcript sequences using microarray technology. This compared gene expression profiles between NOA sperm and normal sperm. We found significant gene expression differences: 150 genes were up-regulated, and 78 genes were down-regulated, along with 24 ncRNAs up-regulated and 13 ncRNAs down-regulated compared to normal conditions. By cross-referencing our results with a single-cell genomics database, we identified overexpressed biological process terms in differentially expressed genes, such as "protein localization to endosomes" and "xenobiotic transport." Overrepresented molecular function terms in up-regulated genes included "voltage-gated calcium channel activity," "growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor activity," and "sialic acid transmembrane transporter activity." Analysis revealed nine hub genes associated with NOA sperm: RPL34, CYB5B, GOL6A6, LSM1, ARL4A, DHX57, STARD9, HSP90B1, and VPS36. CONCLUSIONS These genes and their interacting proteins may play a role in the pathophysiology of germ cell abnormalities and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danial Hashemi Karoii
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
| | - Hossein Azizi
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran.
| | - Thomas Skutella
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 307, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Guo Q, Cheng Y, Li T, Huang J, Li J, Zhang Z, Qu Y. The Gut Microbiota Contributes to the Development of LPS-Induced Orchitis by Disrupting the Blood-Testosterone Barrier in Mice. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01613-9. [PMID: 38858330 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01613-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Orchitis is a frequent inflammatory reproductive disease that causes male infertility and a decline in sperm quality. Gut microbiota can regulate systemic and local inflammation, spermatogenesis and blood-testosterone barrier (BTB). In this study, we investigated correlation between gut microbiota and orchitis by establishing a mouse gut microbiota imbalance model induced by antibiotics (ABX) treatment and orchitis model induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) infection. Based on these two models, 16s rRNA sequencing and feces microbiota transplantation (FMT) experiments were combined to examine the function and regulatory mechanisms of the gut microbiota in host defense against orchitis. Compared with control mice, gut microbiota imbalance resulted in increasing inflammatory responses, modulating oxidative stress related enzyme activity, testosterone levels and the permeability of blood testosterone barrier, which are restored after FMT. Subsequently, we tested the relationship between the gut microbiota imbalance and testicular inflammation severity in orchitis. It was found that the ABX and LPS co-treated mice had more severe inflammatory responses, lower testosterone levels and greater permeability of the BTB than the LPS-treated mice, but these changes could be partially recovered by gut microbiota transplantation. In conclusion, these above results proved for the first time that gut microbiota is involved in the pathogenesis of orchitis, which laid a good foundation for the subsequent development of anti-orchitis drugs and probiotic targeting intestinal flora.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ye Cheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Tianfeng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jiang Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jinchun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zecai Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Yongli Qu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China.
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China.
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4
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Wanjari UR, Gopalakrishnan AV. Blood-testis barrier: a review on regulators in maintaining cell junction integrity between Sertoli cells. Cell Tissue Res 2024; 396:157-175. [PMID: 38564020 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-024-03894-7] [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: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is formed adjacent to the seminiferous basement membrane. It is a distinct ultrastructure, partitioning testicular seminiferous epithelium into apical (adluminal) and basal compartments. It plays a vital role in developing and maturing spermatocytes into spermatozoa via reorganizing its structure. This enables the transportation of preleptotene spermatocytes across the BTB, from basal to adluminal compartments in the seminiferous tubules. Several bioactive peptides and biomolecules secreted by testicular cells regulate the BTB function and support spermatogenesis. These peptides activate various downstream signaling proteins and can also be the target themself, which could improve the diffusion of drugs across the BTB. The gap junction (GJ) and its coexisting junctions at the BTB maintain the immunological barrier integrity and can be the "gateway" during spermatocyte transition. These junctions are the possible route for toxicant entry, causing male reproductive dysfunction. Herein, we summarize the detailed mechanism of all the regulators playing an essential role in the maintenance of the BTB, which will help researchers to understand and find targets for drug delivery inside the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Tamil Nadu, Vellore, PIN 632014, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Tamil Nadu, Vellore, PIN 632014, India.
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Wang L, Bu T, Wu X, Li L, Sun F, Cheng CY. Motor proteins, spermatogenesis and testis function. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2024; 141:381-445. [PMID: 38960481 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
The role of motor proteins in supporting intracellular transports of vesicles and organelles in mammalian cells has been known for decades. On the other hand, the function of motor proteins that support spermatogenesis is also well established since the deletion of motor protein genes leads to subfertility and/or infertility. Furthermore, mutations and genetic variations of motor protein genes affect fertility in men, but also a wide range of developmental defects in humans including multiple organs besides the testis. In this review, we seek to provide a summary of microtubule and actin-dependent motor proteins based on earlier and recent findings in the field. Since these two cytoskeletons are polarized structures, different motor proteins are being used to transport cargoes to different ends of these cytoskeletons. However, their involvement in germ cell transport across the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and the epithelium of the seminiferous tubules remains relatively unknown. It is based on recent findings in the field, we have provided a hypothetical model by which motor proteins are being used to support germ cell transport across the BTB and the seminiferous epithelium during the epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis. In our discussion, we have highlighted the areas of research that deserve attention to bridge the gap of research in relating the function of motor proteins to spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Tiao Bu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
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6
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Yamanouchi K, Kato S, Tanaka Y, Ikeda M, Oshimo Y, Shiga T, Hatamoto K, Chambers J, Imamura T, Hiramatsu R, Uchida K, Matsuda F, Matsuwaki T, Kohsaka T. Identification and characterization of dystrophin-locus-derived testis-specific protein: A testis-specific gene within the intronic region of the rat dystrophin gene. J Reprod Dev 2024; 70:55-64. [PMID: 38246612 PMCID: PMC11017100 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2023-073] [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: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The mammalian X chromosome exhibits enrichment in genes associated with germ cell development. Previously, we generated a rat model of Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) characterized by an in-frame mutation in the dystrophin gene, situated on the X chromosome and responsible for encoding a protein crucial for muscle integrity. Male BMD rats are infertile owing to the absence of normal spermatids in the epididymis. Within the seminiferous tubules of BMD rats, elongated spermatids displayed abnormal morphology. To elucidate the cause of infertility, we identified a putative gene containing an open reading frame situated in the intronic region between exons 6 and 7 of the dystrophin gene, specifically deleted in male BMD rats. This identified gene, along with its encoded protein, exhibited specific detection within the testes, exclusively localized in round to elongated spermatids during spermiogenesis. Consequently, we designated the encoded protein as dystrophin-locus-derived testis-specific protein (DTSP). Given the absence of DTSP in the testes of BMD rats, we hypothesized that the loss of DTSP contributes to the infertility observed in male BMD rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keitaro Yamanouchi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Shizuka Kato
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yukie Tanaka
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Masanari Ikeda
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yukina Oshimo
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Takanori Shiga
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Kei Hatamoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - James Chambers
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Takuya Imamura
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Program of Biomedical Science, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 739-8526, Japan
| | - Ryuji Hiramatsu
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Uchida
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Fuko Matsuda
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Takashi Matsuwaki
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Kohsaka
- Faculty of Health Science, Butsuryo College of Osaka, Osaka 593-8328, Japan
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7
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Wu Z, Chen X, Yan T, Yu L, Zhang L, Zheng M, Zhu H. Rreb1 is a key transcription factor in Sertoli cell maturation and function and spermatogenesis in mouse. ZYGOTE 2024; 32:130-138. [PMID: 38248872 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199423000655] [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] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a developmental process driven by interactions between germ cells and Sertoli cells. This process depends on appropriate gene expression, which might be regulated by transcription factors. This study focused on Rreb1, a zinc finger transcription factor, and explored its function and molecular mechanisms in spermatogenesis in a mouse model. Our results showed that RREB1 was predominantly expressed in the Sertoli cells of the testis. The decreased expression of RREB1 following injection of siRNA caused impaired Sertoli cell development, which was characterized using a defective blood-testis barrier structure and decreased expression of Sertoli cell functional maturity markers; its essential trigger might be SMAD3 destabilization. The decreased expression of RREB1 in mature Sertoli cells influenced the cell structure and function, which resulted in abnormal spermatogenesis, manifested as oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, and we believe RREB1 plays this role by regulating the transcription of Fshr and Wt1. RREB1 has been reported to activate Fshr transcription, and we demonstrated that the knockdown of Rreb1 caused a reduction in follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) in the testis, which could be the cause of the increased sperm malformation. Furthermore, we confirmed that RREB1 directly activates Wt1 promoter activity, and RREB1 downregulation induced the decreased expression of Wt1 and its downstream polarity-associated genes Par6b and E-cadherin, which caused increased germ-cell death and reduced sperm number and motility. In conclusion, RREB1 is a key transcription factor essential for Sertoli cell development and function and is required for normal spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhu Wu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xu Chen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tong Yan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Longsheng Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Meimei Zheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center of No. 960 Hospital of PLA, Jinan, China
| | - Hui Zhu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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8
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Liu M, He Q, Yuan Z, Chen N, Ren S, Du Q, Wang Y, Han S, Xu C, Lu L, Sun Z, Guan Y, Xie J, Guan Y, Ye L. HDAC3 promotes Sertoli cell maturation and maintains the blood-testis barrier dynamics. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23526. [PMID: 38430456 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301349rr] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Germ cell development depends on the capacity of somatic Sertoli cells to undergo differentiation into a mature state and establish a germ cell-specific blood-testis barrier (BTB). The BTB structure confers an immunological barrier for meiotic and postmeiotic germ cells, and its dynamic permeability facilitates a transient movement of preleptotene spermatocytes through BTB to enter meiosis. However, the regulatory factors involved in Sertoli cell maturation and how BTB dynamics coordinate germ cell development remain unclear. Here, we found a histone deacetylase HDAC3 abundantly expresses in Sertoli cells and localizes in both cytoplasm and nucleus. Sertoli cell-specific Hdac3 knockout in mice causes infertility with compromised integrity of blood-testis barrier, leading to germ cells unable to traverse through BTB and an accumulation of preleptotene spermatocytes in juvenile testis. Mechanistically, nuclear HDAC3 regulates the expression program of Sertoli cell maturation genes, and cytoplasmic HDAC3 forms a complex with the gap junction protein Connexin 43 to modulate the BTB integrity and dynamics through regulating the distribution of tight junction proteins. Our findings identify HDAC3 as a critical regulator in promoting Sertoli cell maturation and maintaining the homeostasis of the blood-testis barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengrou Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qing He
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zihan Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Niuniu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sen Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qian Du
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shenglin Han
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chen Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Luyang Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zheng Sun
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yongjuan Guan
- College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yichun Guan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lan Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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9
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Pawlicki P, Yurdakok-Dikmen B, Tworzydlo W, Kotula-Balak M. Toward understanding the role of the interstitial tissue architects: Possible functions of telocytes in the male gonad. Theriogenology 2024; 217:25-36. [PMID: 38241912 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.01.013] [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: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Telocytes represent a relatively recently discovered population of interstitial cells with a unique morphological structure that distinguishes them from other neighboring cells. Through their long protrusions extending from the cell body, telocytes create microenvironments via tissue compartmentalization and create homo- and hetero-cellular junctions. These establish a three-dimensional network enabling the maintenance of interstitial compartment homeostasis through regulation of extracellular matrix organization and activity, structural support, paracrine and juxtracrine communication, immunomodulation, immune surveillance, cell survival, and apoptosis. The presence of telocytes has also been confirmed in testicular interstitial tissue of many species of animals. The objective of this review is to summarize recent findings on telocytes in the male gonad, on which conclusions have been deduced that indicate the involvement of telocytes in maintaining the cytoarchitecture of the testicular interstitial tissue, in the processes of spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis, and photoperiod-mediated changes in the testes in seasonally reproductive animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Pawlicki
- Center of Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Redzina 1c, 30-248, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Begum Yurdakok-Dikmen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ankara University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara, 06110, Dışkapı, Turkey.
| | - Waclaw Tworzydlo
- Department of Developmental Biology and Invertebrate Morphology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 9, 30-385, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Malgorzata Kotula-Balak
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Preclinical Sciences, University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UA, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059, Krakow, Poland.
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10
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Chen J, Xia Y, Ben Y, Lu X, Dou K, Ding Y, Han X, Yang F, Wang J, Li D. Embryonic exposure to aluminum chloride blocks the onset of spermatogenesis through disturbing the dynamics of testicular tight junctions via upregulating Slc25a5 in offspring. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 915:170128. [PMID: 38242464 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Studies have revealed neurotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and developmental and reproductive toxicity in mice exposed to aluminum. However, relatively few studies have been conducted to clarify the mechanism underlying the impact of embryonic exposure to aluminum on the development of the male reproductive system in offspring. Pregnant mice were administered aluminum chloride (AlCl3) by gavage from day 12.5 of gestation until birth. Our findings demonstrated that embryonic exposure to AlCl3 disrupted testicular development and spermatogenesis by impairing testicular architecture, reducing sperm count, and upregulating the expression of tight junction (TJ) protein between Sertoli cells (SCs). Further in vitro studies revealed that treatment with AlCl3 stabilized TJ proteins Occludin and ZO-1 expression by inhibiting ERK signaling pathway activation, thereby upregulating Slc25a5 expression which induced ATP production leading to disruption of cytoskeletal protein homeostasis. Therefore, the study provided a new mechanistic insight into how AlCl3 exposure interfered with testicular development and spermatogenesis while suggesting that Slc25a5 might be a target affected by AlCl3 influencing cell metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Yunhui Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Yu Ben
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Xinyan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Kou Dou
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Yibing Ding
- Translational Medicine Core Facilities, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Xiaodong Han
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Fenglian Yang
- Industrial College of biomedicine and health industry, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China
| | - Junli Wang
- Industrial College of biomedicine and health industry, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China; Reproductive Medicine, Guangxi Medical and Health Key Discipline Construction Project, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, China.
| | - Dongmei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China.
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11
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Lynda EO, Kingsley NE, Obukohwo OM, Benneth BA, Victor E, Simon OI, Agbonifo-Chijiokwu E, Oghenetega OB. Arjunolic acid reverses fluoxetine-induced alterations in testicular steroidogenic enzymes and membrane bound ionic pump imbalance through suppression of oxido-inflammatory stress and apoptosis. JBRA Assist Reprod 2024; 28:66-77. [PMID: 37962970 PMCID: PMC10936923 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20230062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The impact of the anti-depressant therapy on gonadal function has been recognized and discussed over the years. However, data to supplement our understanding of the impact of arjunolic acid (AA) therapies in protecting against FXT-induced gonadal dysfunction is lacking clear scientific evidence. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the possible effect of AA on fluoxetine-induced altered testicular function in rats. METHODS After 14 days acclimatization, Thirty-six (36) adult male rats were randomly divided into 6 groups (n=6). Rats in groups 1 received normal saline (10mL/kg); groups 2 & 3 were given AA (1.0mg/kg body weight) and AA (2.0mg/kg body weight), respectively; whereas, rats in group 4 were given FXT (10mg/kg/p.o/day), and groups 5 & 6 were given a combination of FXT (10mg/kg) + AA (1.0mg/kg body weight); and FXT (10mg/kg) + AA (2.0mg/kg body weight), respectively. RESULTS The results shows that FXT significantly altered testicular steroidogenic enzymes (3ß-HSD and 17ß-HSD) and proton pump ATPase (Na+/K+ ATPase, Ca2+ ATPase and H+ ATPase) activities, as well as testicular architecture when compared with controls. More so, FXT caused oxido-inflammation and apoptosis, as evidence by increases in MDA, MPO, TNF-α, IL-1ß, Caspase 3 and p53. However, AA at a different dose significantly ameliorated the destructive impacts of FXT on steroidogenic enzymes, proton pump ATPase as well as increased Bcl-2, SOD, CAT, GSH and improved testicular architecture in rats. CONCLUSIONS AA reverses fluoxetine-induced alterations in testicular steroidogenic enzymes and membrane-bound ionic pump through suppression of oxido-inflammatory stress and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edozie Ojochem Lynda
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science,
Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Nwangwa Eze Kingsley
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science,
Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | | | - Ben-Azu Benneth
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, Delta
State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Emojevvwe Victor
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Medical Sciences,
Ondo, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Ovuakporaye I. Simon
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science,
Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Ejime Agbonifo-Chijiokwu
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science,
Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Onome B. Oghenetega
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Babcock
University, Illisan-Romo, Ogun State, Nigeria
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12
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Zhang W, Chen SJ, Guo LY, Zhang Z, Zhang JB, Wang XM, Meng XB, Zhang MY, Zhang KK, Chen LL, Li YW, Wen Y, Wang L, Hu JH, Bai YY, Zhang XJ. Nitric oxide synthase and its function in animal reproduction: an update. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1288669. [PMID: 38028794 PMCID: PMC10662090 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1288669] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO), a free radical labile gas, is involved in the regulation of various biological functions and physiological processes during animal reproduction. Recently, increasing evidence suggests that the biological role and chemical fate of NO is dependent on dynamic regulation of its biosynthetic enzyme, three distinct nitric oxide synthase (NOS) according to their structure, location and function. The impact of NOS isoforms on reproductive functions need to be timely elucidated. Here, we focus on and the basic background and latest studies on the development, structure, importance inhibitor, location pattern, complex functions. Moreover, we summarize the exactly mechanisms which involved some cell signal pathways in the regulation of NOS with cellular and molecular level in the animal reproduction. Therefore, this growing research area provides the new insight into the important role of NOS male and female reproduction system. It also provides the treatment evidence on targeting NOS of reproductive regulation and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- College of Animal Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Su juan Chen
- Department of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical College, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Li ya Guo
- College of Animal Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Zijing Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jia bin Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin Agriculture University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiao meng Wang
- College of Animal Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Xiang bo Meng
- College of Animal Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Min ying Zhang
- College of Animal Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Ke ke Zhang
- College of Animal Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Lin lin Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin Agriculture University, Changchun, China
| | - Yi wei Li
- College of Animal Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Yuliang Wen
- College of Animal Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Lei Wang
- College of Animal Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Jian he Hu
- College of Animal Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Yue yu Bai
- Animal Health Supervision in Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiao jian Zhang
- College of Animal Science, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, Henan, China
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13
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Nguyen HT, Martin LJ. Classical cadherins in the testis: how are they regulated? Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 35:641-660. [PMID: 37717581 DOI: 10.1071/rd23084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cadherins (CDH) are crucial intercellular adhesion molecules, contributing to morphogenesis and creating tissue barriers by regulating cells' movement, clustering and differentiation. In the testis, classical cadherins such as CDH1, CDH2 and CDH3 are critical to gonadogenesis by promoting the migration and the subsequent clustering of primordial germ cells with somatic cells. While CDH2 is present in both Sertoli and germ cells in rodents, CDH1 is primarily detected in undifferentiated spermatogonia. As for CDH3, its expression is mainly found in germ and pre-Sertoli cells in developing gonads until the establishment of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). This barrier is made of Sertoli cells forming intercellular junctional complexes. The restructuring of the BTB allows the movement of early spermatocytes toward the apical compartment as they differentiate during a process called spermatogenesis. CDH2 is among many junctional proteins participating in this process and is regulated by several pathways. While cytokines promote the disassembly of the BTB by enhancing junctional protein endocytosis for degradation, testosterone facilitates the assembly of the BTB by increasing the recycling of endocytosed junctional proteins. Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are also mediators of the BTB kinetics in many chemically induced damages in the testis. In addition to regulating Sertoli cell functions, follicle stimulating hormone can also regulate the expression of CDH2. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on regulatory mechanisms of cadherin localisation and expression in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha Tuyen Nguyen
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Luc J Martin
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
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14
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Zhang W, Tian Z, Qi X, Chen P, Yang Q, Guan Q, Ye J, Yu C. Switching from high-fat diet to normal diet ameliorate BTB integrity and improve fertility potential in obese male mice. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14152. [PMID: 37644200 PMCID: PMC10465505 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41291-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a prominent risk factor for male infertility, and a high-fat diet is an important cause of obesity. Therefore, diet control can reduce body weight and regulate blood glucose and lipids, but it remains unclear whether it can improve male fertility and its mechanism. This study explores the effects of switching from a high-fat diet (HFD) to a normal diet (ND) on the fertility potential of obese male mice and its related mechanisms. In our study, male mice were separated into three groups: normal diet group (NN), continuous high-fat diet group (HH), and return to normal diet group (HN). The reproductive potential of mice was tested through cohabitation. Enzymatic methods and ELISA assays were used to measure metabolic indicators, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and intratesticular testosterone levels. Transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescence with biotin tracers assessed the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were inspected for the assessment of oxidative stress. The expression and localization of BTB-related proteins were detected through the immunoblot and immunofluorescence. The mice in the high-fat diet group indicated increased body weight and epididymal fat weight, elevated serum TC, HDL, LDL, and glucose, decreased serum FSH, and dramatic lipid deposition in the testicular interstitium. Analysis of fertility potential revealed that the fertility rate of female mice and the number of pups per litter in the HH group were significantly reduced. After the fat intake was controlled by switching to a normal diet, body weight and epididymal fat weight were significantly reduced, serum glucose and lipid levels were lowered, serum FSH level was elevated and the deposition of interstitial lipids in the testicles was also decreased. Most significantly, the number of offspring of male mice returning to a normal diet was significantly increased. Following further mechanistic analysis, the mice in the sustained high-fat diet group had disrupted testicular BTB integrity, elevated levels of oxidative stress, and abnormal expression of BTB-related proteins, whereas the restoration of the normal diet significantly ameliorated the above indicators in the mice. Our study confirms diet control by switching from a high-fat diet to a normal diet can effectively reduce body weight, ameliorate testicular lipotoxicity and BTB integrity in male mice, and improve fertility potential, providing an effective treatment option for obese male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Zhenhua Tian
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Xiangyu Qi
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Pengcheng Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Qingbo Guan
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Jifeng Ye
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Second People's Hospital of Liaocheng, Shandong, 252601, China.
| | - Chunxiao Yu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
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15
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Chen Y, Chen Y, Jian B, Feng Q, Liu L. Identification and Expression of Integrins during Testicular Fusion in Spodoptera litura. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1452. [PMID: 37510356 PMCID: PMC10379305 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Integrin members are cell adhesion receptors that bind to extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins to regulate cell-cell adhesion and cell-ECM adhesion. This process is essential for tissue development and organogenesis. The fusion of two testes is a physiological phenomenon that is required for sperm production and effective reproduction in many Lepidoptera. However, the molecular mechanism of testicular fusion is unclear. In Spodoptera litura, two separated testes fuse into a single testis during the larva-to-pupa transformation. We identified five α and five β integrin subunits that were closely associated with testicular fusion. Integrin α1 and α2 belong to the position-specific 1 (PS1) and PS2 groups, respectively. Integrin α3, αPS1/αPS2, and αPS3 were clustered into the PS3 group. Integrin β1 belonged to the insect β group, and β2, β3, and β5 were clustered in the βν group. Among these integrins, α1, α2, α3, αPS1/PS2, αPS3, β1, and β4 subunits were highly expressed when the testes fused. However, their expression levels were much lower before and after the fusion of the testis. The qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry analyses indicated that integrin β1 mRNA and the protein were highly expressed in the peritoneal sheath of the testis, particularly when the testes fused. These results indicate that integrins might participate in S. litura testicular fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqing Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Baozhu Jian
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Qili Feng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
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16
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Solaimani F, Habibi E, Ghasemi M, Mahboubi S, Zamani E, Shaki F. The Protective Effects of Trametes Versicolor on Arsenic-Induced Male Reproductive Toxicity through Regulation of Oxidative Stress: A Biochemical and Histopathological Survey. Andrologia 2023; 2023:1-13. [DOI: 10.1155/2023/7579366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to arsenic is linked to a wide range of diseases, in particular male reproductive toxicities. Trametes versicolor is a traditional medicinal fungus with a remarkable potential for antioxidant activity. The purpose of this study was to examine the ameliorating effects of water and methanol extracts of T. versicolor on arsenic-induced male reproductive toxicities via the abrogation of oxidative stress. The mice were divided as follows: control: normal saline, As: arsenic (15 mg/kg), WE: water extract (400 mg/kg), ME: methanol extract (400 mg/kg), As + WE: arsenic (15 mg/kg) + water extract (100, 200, 400 mg/kg), As + ME: arsenic (15 mg/kg) + methanol extract (100, 200, 400 mg/kg), and positive control: arsenic (15 mg/kg) + vitamin C (500 mg/kg). Animals were treated via the intraperitoneal route. About 24 hr later, the mice were euthanized, and oxidative stress parameters (reactive oxygen species [ROS], lipid peroxidation, glutathione concentration, protein carbonylation, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase activity), histopathological changes and sperm parameters (count, motility, and morphology) were examined in the testicular tissue. Arsenic caused significant pathological changes in the testicular tissue and sperm morphology and significantly reduced sperm count and motility. Moreover, arsenic mediated oxidative stress via significant increases in ROS generation, lipid peroxidation, and protein carbonyl content, as well as significant depletion in glutathione concentration and superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities. Although, coadministration of water and methanol extracts of T. versicolor at 200 and 400 mg/kg counteracted arsenic-induced oxidative and histopathological damages and improved sperm parameters. Our study indicated that T. versicolor ameliorated arsenic-induced testis toxicity and sperm dysfunction via attenuation of oxidative damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Solaimani
- Ramsar Campus, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Ramsar, Iran
| | - Emran Habibi
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Maryam Ghasemi
- Department of Pathology, Immunogenetics Research Center, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Saba Mahboubi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Ehsan Zamani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Shaki
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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Luaces JP, Toro-Urrego N, Otero-Losada M, Capani F. What do we know about blood-testis barrier? current understanding of its structure and physiology. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1114769. [PMID: 37397257 PMCID: PMC10307970 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1114769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood-testis barrier (BTB) creates a particular compartment in the seminiferous epithelium. Contacting Sertoli cell-Sertoli cell plasma membranes possess specialized junction proteins which present a complex dynamic of formation and dismantling. Thus, these specialized structures facilitate germ cell movement across the BTB. Junctions are constantly rearranged during spermatogenesis while the BTB preserves its barrier function. Imaging methods are essential to studying the dynamic of this sophisticated structure in order to understand its functional morphology. Isolated Sertoli cell cultures cannot represent the multiple interactions of the seminiferous epithelium and in situ studies became a fundamental approach to analyze BTB dynamics. In this review, we discuss the contributions of high-resolution microscopy studies to enlarge the body of morphofunctional data to understand the biology of the BTB as a dynamic structure. The first morphological evidence of the BTB was based on a fine structure of the junctions, which was resolved with Transmission Electron Microscopy. The use of conventional Fluorescent Light Microscopy to examine labelled molecules emerged as a fundamental technique for elucidating the precise protein localization at the BTB. Then laser-scanning confocal microscopy allowed the study of three-dimensional structures and complexes at the seminiferous epithelium. Several junction proteins, like the transmembrane, scaffold and signaling proteins, were identified in the testis using traditional animal models. BTB morphology was analyzed in different physiological conditions as the spermatocyte movement during meiosis, testis development, and seasonal spermatogenesis, but also structural elements, proteins, and BTB permeability were studied. Under pathological, pharmacological, or pollutant/toxic conditions, there are significant studies that provide high-resolution images which help to understand the dynamic of the BTB. Notwithstanding the advances, further research using new technologies is required to gain information on the BTB. Super-resolution light microscopy is needed to provide new research with high-quality images of targeted molecules at a nanometer-scale resolution. Finally, we highlight research areas that warrant future studies, pinpointing new microscopy approaches and helping to improve our ability to understand this barrier complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. P. Luaces
- Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CAECIHS.UAI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - N. Toro-Urrego
- Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CAECIHS.UAI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M. Otero-Losada
- Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CAECIHS.UAI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - F. Capani
- Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CAECIHS.UAI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Bu T, Li X, Wang L, Wu X, Gao S, Yun D, Li L, Sun F, Cheng CY. Regulation of sertoli cell function by planar cell polarity (PCP) protein Fjx1. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 571:111936. [PMID: 37119967 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.111936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Four-jointed box kinase 1 (Fjx1) is a planar cell protein (PCP) and a member of the Fat (FAT atypical cadherin 1)/Dchs (Dachsous cadherin-related protein)/Fjx1 PCP complex. Fjx1 is also a non-receptor Ser/Thr protein kinase capable of phosphorylating Fat1 at is extracellular cadherin domains when it is transport across the Golgi system. As such, Fjx1 is a Golgi-based regulator of Fat1 function by determining its extracellular deposition. Herein, Fjx1 was found to localize across the Sertoli cell cytoplasm, partially co-localized with the microtubules (MTs) across the seminiferous epithelium. It was most notable at the apical ES (ectoplasmic specialization) and basal ES, displaying distinctive stage-specific expression. The apical ES and basal ES are the corresponding testis-specific cell adhesion ultrastructures at the Sertoli-elongated spermatid and Sertoli cell-cell interface, respectively, consistent with the role of Fjx1 as a Golgi-associated Ser/Thr kinase that modulates the Fat (and/or Dchs) integral membrane proteins. Its knockdown (KD) by RNAi using specific Fjx1 siRNA duplexes versus non-targeting negative control siRNA duplexes was found to perturb the Sertoli cell tight junction function, as well as perturbing the function and organization of MT and actin. While Fjx1 KD did not affect the steady-state levels of almost two dozens of BTB-associated Sertoli cell proteins, including structural and regulatory proteins, its KD was found to down-regulate Fat1 (but not Fat2, 3, and 4) and to up-regulate Dchs1 (but not Dchs2) expression. Based on results of biochemical analysis, Fjx1 KD was found to be capable of abolishing phosphorylation of its putative substrate Fat1 at its Ser/Thr sites, but not at its Tyr site, illustrating an intimate functional relationship of Fjx1 and Fat1 in Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiao Bu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Xinyao Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, China
| | - Sheng Gao
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Damin Yun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China.
| | - C Yan Cheng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China.
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Distribution of tetraspanins in bovine ovarian tissue and fresh/vitrified oocytes. Histochem Cell Biol 2023; 159:163-183. [PMID: 36242635 PMCID: PMC9922244 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-022-02155-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Tetraspanin proteins are mostly known as organizers of molecular complexes on cell membranes, widely expressed on the surface of most nucleated cells. Although tetraspanins participate in many physiological processes of mammals, including reproduction, their relevance to the processes of folliculogenesis and oogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated. We bring new information regarding the distribution of tetraspanins CD9, CD81, CD151, CD82, and CD63 at different stages of follicular development in cattle. The found distribution of tetraspanin CD9, CD63, and integrin alpha V in similar areas of ovarian tissue outlined their possible cooperation. We also describe yet-unknown distribution patterns of CD151, CD82, and CD63 on immature and mature bovine oocytes. The unique localization of tetraspanins CD63 and CD82 in the zona pellucida of bovine oocytes suggested their involvement in transzonal projections. Furthermore, we present an unchanged distribution pattern of the studied tetraspanins in vitrified mature bovine oocytes. The immunofluorescent analysis was supplemented by in silico data addressing tetraspanins expression in the ovarian cells and oocytes across several species. The obtained results suggest that in the study of the oocyte development and potentially the fertilization process of cattle, the role of tetraspanins and integrins should also be taken into account.
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20
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Tang EI, Cheng CY. MARK2 and MARK4 Regulate Sertoli Cell BTB Dynamics Through Microtubule and Actin Cytoskeletons. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6667645. [PMID: 35971301 PMCID: PMC10147390 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Microtubule affinity-regulating kinases (MARKs) are nonreceptor Ser/Thr protein kinases known to regulate cell polarity and microtubule dynamics in Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila, invertebrates, vertebrates, and mammals. An earlier study has shown that MARK4 is present at the ectoplasmic specialization and blood-testis barrier (BTB) in the seminiferous epithelium of adult rat testes. Here, we report the function of MARK4 and another isoform MARK2 in Sertoli cells at the BTB. Knockdown of MARK2, MARK4, or MARK2 and MARK4 by RNAi using the corresponding siRNA duplexes without apparent off-target effects was shown to impair tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier at the Sertoli cell BTB. It also disrupted microtubule (MT)- and actin-based cytoskeletal organization within Sertoli cells. Although MARK2 and MARK4 were shown to share sequence homology, they likely regulated the Sertoli cell BTB and MT cytoskeleton differently. Disruption of the TJ-permeability barrier following knockdown of MARK4 was considerably more severe than loss of MARK2, though both perturbed the barrier. Similarly, loss of MARK2 affected MT organization in a different manner than the loss of MARK4. Knockdown of MARK2 caused MT bundles to be arranged around the cell periphery, whereas knockdown of MARK4 caused MTs to retract from the cell edge. These differences in effects on the TJ-permeability barrier are likely from the unique roles of MARK2 and MARK4 in regulating the MT cytoskeleton of the Sertoli cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth I Tang
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
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Xiong B, Jiang Y, Wang Y, Han X, Zhang C, Zhong R, Ge W, Han B, Ge Z, Huang G, Yin S, Shen W, Sun Q, Sun Z, Zhao Y, Zhang H. LncRNA8276 primes cell‐cell adhesion for regulation of spermatogenesis. Andrology 2022; 10:1687-1701. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.13298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bohui Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Institute of Animal Sciences Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Beijing 100193 P. R. China
| | - Yue Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Institute of Animal Sciences Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Beijing 100193 P. R. China
| | - Yandi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Institute of Animal Sciences Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Beijing 100193 P. R. China
| | - Xiao Han
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Institute of Animal Sciences Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Beijing 100193 P. R. China
| | - Cong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Institute of Animal Sciences Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Beijing 100193 P. R. China
| | - Ruqing Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Institute of Animal Sciences Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Beijing 100193 P. R. China
| | - Wei Ge
- College of Life Sciences Qingdao Agricultural University Qingdao 266109 P. R. China
| | - Baoquan Han
- Urology Department Peking University Shenzhen Hospital Shenzhen 518036 China
| | - Zhaojia Ge
- College of Life Sciences Qingdao Agricultural University Qingdao 266109 P. R. China
| | - Gui'an Huang
- College of Life Sciences Qingdao Agricultural University Qingdao 266109 P. R. China
| | - Shen Yin
- College of Life Sciences Qingdao Agricultural University Qingdao 266109 P. R. China
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences Qingdao Agricultural University Qingdao 266109 P. R. China
| | - Qingyuang Sun
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital Guangzhou 510317 P. R. China
| | - Zhongyi Sun
- Urology Department Shenzhen University General Hospital Shenzhen 518055 P. R. China
| | - Yong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Institute of Animal Sciences Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Beijing 100193 P. R. China
| | - Hongfu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Institute of Animal Sciences Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Beijing 100193 P. R. China
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Zhao Y, Chen MS, Wang JX, Cui JG, Zhang H, Li XN, Li JL. Connexin-43 is a promising target for lycopene preventing phthalate-induced spermatogenic disorders. J Adv Res 2022:S2090-1232(22)00203-X. [PMID: 36087924 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Male infertility is a multifactorial pathological condition and may be a harbinger of future health. Phthalates are ubiquitous environmental contaminants that have been implicated in the global decline in male fertility. Among them, di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is the most prevalently used. Lycopene (LYC) is a possible preventive and therapeutic agent for male infertility owing to its antioxidant properties. The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is formed between Sertoli cells where it creates a unique microenvironment for spermatogenesis. OBJECTIVES We hypothesize that phthalate caused male infertility and LYC plays an important role in phthalate-induced male fertility disorders. METHODS Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, ultrastructure observation, and fluorescence microscopy were used to examine the morphological changes. RNA-Seq, and western blotting were conducted to detect gene and protein levels. Routine testing for sperm morphology and sperm-egg binding assay were conducted to examine the morphological structure and function of sperm. Cell scratch assay and transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) were used to detect cell migration capacity and barrier integrity. RESULTS In vivo experiments, we showed that LYC prevented DEHP-induced impairment of BTB integrity, which provided a guarantee for the smooth progress of spermatogenesis. LYC improved DEHP-induced change in sperm parameters and fertilization ability. Subsequent in vitro experiments, LYC alleviated MEHP-induced disruption of intercellular junctions in mouse Spermatogonia cells (GC-1 cells) and mouse Sertoli cells (TM4 cells). In MEHP-induced BTB impairment models of Sertoli cells, treatment with LYC or overexpressing connexin-43 (Cx43) promoted cell migration capacity and normalized BTB integrity. Cx43 knockdown inhibited cell migration capacity and perturbed BTB reassembly in LYC preventing DEHP-induced BTB impairment. CONCLUSION Our study provides evidence for the role of LYC in phthalates-induced spermatogenic disorders and points to Cx43 as a potential target for male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Ming-Shan Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Xin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Gen Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Hao Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Xue-Nan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Jin-Long Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China.
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Sertoli cell survival and barrier function are regulated by miR-181c/d-Pafah1b1 axis during mammalian spermatogenesis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:498. [PMID: 36008729 PMCID: PMC9411099 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04521-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells contribute to the formation of the blood-testis barrier (BTB), which is necessary for normal spermatogenesis. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as posttranscriptional regulatory elements in BTB function during spermatogenesis. Our previous study has shown that miR-181c or miR-181d (miR-181c/d) is highly expressed in testes from boars at 60 days old compared with at 180 days old. Herein, we found that overexpression of miR-181c/d via miR-181c/d mimics in murine Sertoli cells (SCs) or through injecting miR-181c/d-overexpressing lentivirus in murine testes perturbs BTB function by altering BTB-associated protein distribution at the Sertoli cell-cell interface and F-actin organization, but this in vivo perturbation disappears approximately 6 weeks after the final treatment. We also found that miR-181c/d represses Sertoli cell proliferation and promotes its apoptosis. Moreover, miR-181c/d regulates Sertoli cell survival and barrier function by targeting platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase 1b regulatory subunit 1 (Pafah1b1) gene. Furthermore, miR-181c/d suppresses PAFAH1B1 expression, reduces the complex of PAFAH1B1 with IQ motif-containing GTPase activating protein 1, and inhibits CDC42/PAK1/LIMK1/Cofilin pathway which is required for F-actin stabilization. In total, our results reveal the regulatory axis of miR-181c/d-Pafah1b1 in cell survival and barrier function of Sertoli cells and provide additional insights into miRNA functions in mammalian spermatogenesis.
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Shen Y, You Y, Zhu K, Fang C, Yu X, Chang D. Bibliometric and visual analysis of blood-testis barrier research. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:969257. [PMID: 36071829 PMCID: PMC9441755 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.969257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Extensive research on the blood-testis barrier has been undertaken in recent years. However, no systematic bibliometric study has been conducted on this subject. Our research aimed to identify the hotspots and frontiers of blood-testis barrier research and to serve as a guide for future scientific research and decision-making in the field.Methods: Studies on the blood-testis barrier were found in the Web of Science Core Collection. VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Microsoft Excel were used to conduct the bibliometric and visual analyses.Results: We found 942 blood-testis barrier studies published in English between 1992 and 2022. The number of annual publications and citations increased significantly between 2011 and 2022, notably in the United States. China and the United States, the US Population Council, Endocrinology, and Cheng C. Yan were the most productive countries, institution, journal, and author, respectively. The study keywords indicated that blood-testis barrier research involves a variety of compositional features (tight junctions, cytoskeleton, adherens junctions), cell types (Sertoli cells, germ cells, Leydig cells, stem cells), reproductive toxicity (cadmium, nanoparticles, bisphenol-a), and relevant mechanisms (spermatogenesis, apoptosis, oxidative stress, dynamics, inflammation, immune privilege).Conclusion: The composition and molecular processes of the blood-testis barrier as well as the blood-testis barrier in male infertility patients are the primary research hotspots in this field. In addition, future research will likely focus on treatment and the development of novel medications that target signal pathways in oxidative stress and apoptosis to preserve the blood-testis barrier. Further studies must extend to clinical diagnosis and therapy.
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Beltrán-Frutos E, Seco-Rovira V, Martínez-Hernández J, Ferrer C, Serrano-Sánchez MI, Pastor LM. Cellular Modifications in Spermatogenesis during Seasonal Testicular Regression: An Update Review in Mammals. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12131605. [PMID: 35804504 PMCID: PMC9265002 DOI: 10.3390/ani12131605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The most common form of reproduction in mammals is seasonal reproduction. This ensures that offspring are born at the most suitable time for survival, due to the abundance of food and the optimal temperatures for early postnatal development. In males, one way to achieve this is to decrease or lose fertility over a given period. This loss is associated with a greater or lesser degree of spermatogenesis modification that affects both germ and Sertoli cells. This paper reviews the different cellular mechanisms that have been postulated in recent years to explain how the activity of the seminiferous epithelium decreases during the non-reproductive period. Abstract Testicular regression occurs during the non-breeding season in many mammals. This affects spermatogenesis, resulting in decreased or arrested activity. Both lead to a decrease or cessation in sperm production. In recent years, the cellular mechanisms that lead to infertility in males in non-reproductive periods have been studied in very different species of mammals. At the start of the present century, the main mechanism involved was considered as an increase in the apoptotic activity of germ cells during the regression period. The loss of spermatogonia and spermatocytes causes not only a decrease in spermatogenesis, but an arrest of the seminiferous epithelium activity at the end of regression. Recently, in some mammal species, it was found that apoptosis is the usual mechanism involved in epithelium activity arrest, although it is firstly atrophied by massive desquamation of the germ cells that are released from their binding with the Sertoli cells, and which are shed into the lumen of the seminiferous tubule. In other species, it has been shown that not only germ cell apoptosis, but also Sertoli cell apoptosis, including decreased proliferative activity, spermatophagy or autophagy, are involved in testicular regression. Furthermore, the most recent studies indicate that there are multiple patterns of seminiferous epithelium regression in seasonally breeding animals, which may not only be used by different species, but also by the same ones to reproduce in the best conditions, ensuring their survival. In conclusion, at this time, it is not possible to consider the existence of a paradigmatic cellular mechanism in the involution of the seminiferous epithelium applicable to all male mammals with seasonal reproduction, rather the existence of several mechanisms which participate to a greater or lesser extent in each of the species that have been studied to date.
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Liu H, Xue J, Li L, Mo H. Shenjing Guben Wan promotes sperm development by increasing the activity of seminiferous epithelium Sertoli cells. Transl Androl Urol 2022; 11:867-876. [PMID: 35812203 PMCID: PMC9262746 DOI: 10.21037/tau-22-381] [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: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infertility is an important social problem. Asthenozoospermia (AZS) is a common pathological cause of male infertility, but its pathogenesis is unclear. Shenjing Guben Wan (SJGBW), a traditional Chinese medicine, has shown remarkable effects during the clinical treatment of oligozoospermia or AZS. Methods In this study, clinical evaluations were carried out on 184 AZS patients receiving SJGBW treatment, including sperm count, sperm quality, and pregnancy rate. Also, ornidazole was used to build an AZS mouse model, and SJGBW treatment was administered. The sperm quantity and fertility of mice in different groups were evaluated; a cholecystokinin octapeptide-8 (CCK-8) experiment was carried out to test the activity of seminiferous epithelium Sertoli cells, and immunohistochemistry and the Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) method were employed to test the pathological information and expression of the Sertoli cell surface marker in the testicular tissues of mice in each group. Results The sperm vitality, progressive sperm motility, and sperm morphology of patients who received SJGBW treatment were all improved (P<0.05). In the AZS group, the average sperm count, sperm vitality, pregnancy rate, and female mouse litters were all lower relative to mice in the control group. Following SJGBW treatment, the average sperm count, sperm vitality, pregnancy rate, and female mouse litters of mice in the AZS group were all significantly improved. The cytobiological experimental results showed that compared with the serum of normal male mice in the control group, the drug serum containing SJGBW could improve the cell vitality and proliferative ability of seminiferous epithelium Sertoli cells in AZS mice. Furthermore, the TUNEL results showed that the seminiferous tubule Sertoli cells and mesenchymal cells of the AZS mice exhibited the most significant apoptosis, which was alleviated following SJGBW treatment. Moreover, the levels of Sertoli cell marker, SOX9, and anti-apoptosis protein, Bcl2, in SJGBW-treated mice were both higher than that in AZS mice. Conclusions SJGBW can promote the development and maturation of germ cells by facilitating the proliferation of Sertoli cells in AZS patients, thereby improving the fertility of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Handu Liu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
| | - Jianguo Xue
- Department of Andrology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Lipeng Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Hui Mo
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
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Zhang Y. SPATA33 affects the formation of cell adhesion complex by interacting with CTNNA3 in TM4 cells. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 389:145-157. [PMID: 35536443 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03631-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Communication between Sertoli cell is essential during spermatogenesis and testicular development in mice, and the dynamic balance of this communication is regulated by some adhesion proteins. In this study, we found that SPATA33 and CTNNA3 were involved in this process. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting showed similar trend of expression of two proteins in the testis of mice of different ages. Subsequently, CRISPR-Cas9 technique was used to prepare Spata33 knockout cell lines with TM4 cells, cell wound scratch assay showed that Spata33 gene knockout affected cell migration, and flow cytometry assay showed that Spata33 knockout resulted in a decreased percentage of G1 phase cells in TM4 cell line. In addition, phalloidin staining assay showed that Spata33 gene knockout disrupted the formation of F-actin. Moreover, the protein immunoprecipitation experiment showed the interaction between SPATA33 and CTNNA3, which affected the interaction between CTNNA3 and CTNNB1. SPATA33 inhibits the formation of CDH1-CTNNB1-CTNNA3 complex through its interaction with CTNNA3, thus weakening adhesion between Sertoli cell and promoting cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Luoyang Normal University, Luoyang, 471934, Henan, China.
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Li J, Wang Y, Deng Y, Wang X, Wu W, Nepovimova E, Wu Q, Kuca K. Toxic mechanisms of the trichothecenes T-2 toxin and deoxynivalenol on protein synthesis. Food Chem Toxicol 2022; 164:113044. [PMID: 35452771 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2022.113044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The toxic mechanisms of trichothecenes, including T-2 toxin and deoxynivalenol (DON), are closely related with their effects on protein synthesis. Increasing lines of evidence show that T-2 toxin can reduce the levels of tight junction proteins, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) by disrupting cellular barriers and the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-protein kinase A (PKA) and Nrf2/heme oxygenase (HO)-1 pathways. Moreover, it can inhibit aggrecan synthesis, thus causing Kashin-Beck disease. Regarding type B trichothecene, DON inhibits activation marker and β-catenin synthesis by acting on immune cells and the wingless/integrated (Wnt) pathway; it also inhibits cell proliferation and immune surveillance. In addition, DON has been shown to destroy tight junctions, glucose transport, and tumor endothelial marker 8, thus disturbing intestinal function and changing cell migration. This review summarizes the inhibitory effects of the trichothecenes T-2 toxin and DON on different protein synthesis, while discussing their underlying mechanisms. Focus is given to the effects of these toxins on tight junctions, aggrecan, activation markers, and hormones including testosterone under the influence of steroidogenic enzymes. This review can extend the current understanding of the effects of trichothecenes on protein synthesis and help to further understand their toxic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiefeng Li
- College of Life Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434025, China
| | - Yating Wang
- College of Life Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434025, China
| | - Ying Deng
- College of Life Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434025, China
| | - Xu Wang
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues and MAO Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues, Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU), Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China
| | - Wenda Wu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Králové, 50003, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Eugenie Nepovimova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Králové, 50003, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Qinghua Wu
- College of Life Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434025, China; Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Králové, 50003, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic.
| | - Kamil Kuca
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Králové, 50003, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic; Biomedical Research Center, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, 500 05, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
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Antalíková J, Sečová P, Michalková K, Horovská Ľ, Páleníková V, Jankovičová J. Expression of αV integrin and its potential partners in bull reproductive tissues, germ cells and spermatozoa. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 209:542-551. [PMID: 35413326 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Integrins are transmembrane receptors expressed in all nucleated mammalian cells, critically involved in cell-matrix adhesion and cell-cell interactions that modulate many signalling cascades. It is assumed that integrins also provide essential functions of the reproductive system. In this study, we describe the detailed localization and distribution of αV integrin in the plasma membrane of bull sperm head and tail. Integrin αV was observed in the area of forming acrosome in developing sperm since the stage of round spermatids and persists in the acrosome during epididymal maturation and ejaculation till the acrosomal exocytosis. We detected CD9 and CD81 tetraspanins as the potential partners of αV integrin. Their similar staining pattern in testicular tissue suggested the involvement of these molecules in the tetraspanin web of "testisomes". Moreover, the complex of αV with β1 and β3 integrin subunits cannot be excluded at least in sperm. The presented findings contribute to understanding the mutual action of integrins and tetraspanins during sperm development and maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Antalíková
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Institute of Animal Biochemistry and Genetics, Centre of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Dúbravská cesta 9, 840 05 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Petra Sečová
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Institute of Animal Biochemistry and Genetics, Centre of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Dúbravská cesta 9, 840 05 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Katarína Michalková
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Institute of Animal Biochemistry and Genetics, Centre of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Dúbravská cesta 9, 840 05 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Ľubica Horovská
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Institute of Animal Biochemistry and Genetics, Centre of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Dúbravská cesta 9, 840 05 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Veronika Páleníková
- Group of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., BIOCEV, Průmyslová 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 8, 128 40 Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Jankovičová
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Institute of Animal Biochemistry and Genetics, Centre of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Dúbravská cesta 9, 840 05 Bratislava, Slovak Republic.
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Liu B, Liu C, Ma B, Zhang R, Zhao Z, Xiao S, Cao W, Ma Y, Zhu G, Li W, Li Z. PA1 participates in the maintenance of blood-testis barrier integrity via cooperation with JUN in the Sertoli cells of mice. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:41. [PMID: 35379345 PMCID: PMC8981650 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00773-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The blood–testis barrier (BTB) is essential to the microenvironment of spermatogenesis, and Sertoli cells provide the cellular basis for BTB construction. Numerous nuclear transcription factors have been identified to be vital for the proper functioning of Sertoli cells. PA1 has been reported to play important roles during diverse biological processes, yet its potential function in male reproduction is still unknown. Results Here, we show that PA1 was highly expressed in human and mouse testis and predominantly localized in the nuclei of Sertoli cells. Sertoli cell-specific Pa1 knockout resulted in an azoospermia-like phenotype in mice. The knockout of this gene led to multiple defects in spermatogenesis, such as the disorganization of the cytoskeleton during basal and apical ectoplasmic specialization and the disruption of the BTB. Further transcriptomic analysis, together with Cut-Tag results of PA1 in Sertoli cells, revealed that PA1 could affect the expression of a subset of genes that are essential for the normal function of Sertoli cells, including those genes associated with actin organization and cellular junctions such as Connexin43 (Cx43). We further demonstrated that the expression of Cx43 depended on the interaction between JUN, one of the AP-1 complex transcription factors, and PA1. Conclusion Overall, our findings reveal that PA1 is essential for the maintenance of BTB integrity in Sertoli cells and regulates BTB construction-related gene expression via transcription factors. Thus, this newly discovered mechanism in Sertoli cells provides a potential diagnostic or even therapeutic target for some individuals with azoospermia. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13578-022-00773-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Liu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Binfang Ma
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Ruidan Zhang
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Sai Xiao
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wanjun Cao
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yanjie Ma
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou, 510000, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Guozhang Zhu
- Department of Biology, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, 25755, USA
| | - Wei Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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Lustofin S, Kaminska A, Brzoskwinia M, Pardyak L, Pawlicki P, Szpregiel I, Bilinska B, Hejmej A. Follicle-stimulating hormone regulates Notch signalling in the seminiferous epithelium of continuously and seasonally breeding rodents. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:560-575. [PMID: 35143740 DOI: 10.1071/rd21237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Juxtacrine (contact-dependent) communication between the cells of seminiferous epithelium mediated by Notch signalling is of importance for the proper course of spermatogenesis in mammals. AIMS The present study was designed to evaluate the role of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the regulation of Notch signalling in rodent seminiferous epithelium. METHODS We explored the effects (1) of pharmacological inhibition of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and FSH replacement in pubertal rats, and (2) of photoinhibition of HPG axis followed by FSH substitution in seasonally breeding rodents, bank voles, on Notch pathway activity. Experiments on isolated rat Sertoli cells exposed to FSH were also performed. Gene and protein expressions of Notch pathway components were analysed using RT-qPCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence. KEY RESULTS Distribution patterns of Notch pathway proteins in bank vole and rat seminiferous epithelium were comparable; however, levels of activated Notch1 and Notch3, hairy/enhancer of split 1 (HES1) and hairy/enhancer of split-related with YRPW motif 1 (HEY1) in bank voles were dependent on the length of the photoperiod. In response to FSH similar changes in these proteins were found in both species, indicating that FSH is a negative regulator of Notch pathway activity in seminiferous epithelium. CONCLUSIONS Our results support a common mechanism of FSH action on Notch pathway during onset and recrudescence of spermatogenesis in rodents. IMPLICATIONS Interaction between FSH signalling and Notch pathway in Sertoli cells may be involved in spermatogenic activity changes of the testes occurring during puberty or photoperiod shift in continuously and seasonally breeding rodents, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Lustofin
- Department of Endocrinology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Alicja Kaminska
- Department of Endocrinology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Brzoskwinia
- Department of Endocrinology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Laura Pardyak
- Center of Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-248 Krakow, Poland
| | - Piotr Pawlicki
- Center of Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-248 Krakow, Poland
| | - Izabela Szpregiel
- Department of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology, Faculty of Animal Science, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
| | - Barbara Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Hejmej
- Department of Endocrinology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
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Zhou GX, Liu WB, Dai LM, Zhu HL, Xiong YW, Li DX, Xu DX, Wang H. Environmental cadmium impairs blood-testis barrier via activating HRI-responsive mitochondrial stress in mice. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 810:152247. [PMID: 34896485 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a well-known testicular toxicant. Blood-testis barrier (BTB), a vital part of testes, which has been reported to be damaged upon Cd exposure. However, the detailed mechanism about Cd-mediated disruption of BTB remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the role of Heme-Regulated Inhibitor (HRI)-responsive mitochondrial stress in Cd-mediated disruption of BTB. Male mice are intraperitoneally injected (i.p.) with melatonin (Mel, a cellular stress antagonist, 5.0 mg/kg) before Cd treatment (i.p., 2.0 mg/kg) for 8 h, and then treated with Cd for 0-48 h. Mouse Sertoli cells are pretreated with Mel (10 μM) for 1 h, and then treated with Cd (10 μM) for 0-24 h. We find that Cd damages the BTB and reduces the Occludin protein, a crucial BTB-related protein via activating p38/matrix metalloproteinase-2 (p38/MMP2) pathway and Integrated Stress Response (ISR). Further experiments reveal that the Heme-Regulated Inhibitor (HRI)-responsive mitochondrial stress is triggered in Cd-treated Sertoli cells. Most importantly, Cd-activated p38 signaling and ISR are regulated by HRI-responsive mitochondrial stress in Sertoli cells. Unexpectedly, we find that melatonin rescues the Cd-mediated disruption of BTB through blocking HRI-responsive mitochondrial stress in testes. Overall, these data indicate that environmental cadmium exposure impairs the BTB through activating HRI-responsive mitochondrial stress in Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Xiang Zhou
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Wei-Bo Liu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Li-Min Dai
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hua-Long Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Yong-Wei Xiong
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Dai-Xin Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - De-Xiang Xu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China.
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Tsutsumi R, Chaya T, Tsujii T, Furukawa T. The carboxyl-terminal region of SDCCAG8 comprises a functional module essential for cilia formation as well as organ development and homeostasis. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:101686. [PMID: 35131266 PMCID: PMC8902618 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, ciliary dysfunction causes ciliopathies, which present as multiple organ defects, including developmental and sensory abnormalities. Sdccag8 is a centrosomal/basal body protein essential for proper cilia formation. Gene mutations in SDCCAG8 have been found in patients with ciliopathies manifesting a broad spectrum of symptoms, including hypogonadism. Among these mutations, several that are predicted to truncate the SDCCAG8 carboxyl (C) terminus are also associated with such symptoms; however, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. In the present study, we identified the Sdccag8 C-terminal region (Sdccag8-C) as a module that interacts with the ciliopathy proteins, Ick/Cilk1 and Mak, which were shown to be essential for the regulation of ciliary protein trafficking and cilia length in mammals in our previous studies. We found that Sdccag8-C is essential for Sdccag8 localization to centrosomes and cilia formation in cultured cells. We then generated a mouse mutant in which Sdccag8-C was truncated (Sdccag8ΔC/ΔC mice) using a CRISPR-mediated stop codon knock-in strategy. In Sdccag8ΔC/ΔC mice, we observed abnormalities in cilia formation and ciliopathy-like organ phenotypes, including cleft palate, polydactyly, retinal degeneration, and cystic kidney, which partially overlapped with those previously observed in Ick- and Mak-deficient mice. Furthermore, Sdccag8ΔC/ΔC mice exhibited a defect in spermatogenesis, which was a previously uncharacterized phenotype of Sdccag8 dysfunction. Together, these results shed light on the molecular and pathological mechanisms underlying ciliopathies observed in patients with SDCCAG8 mutations and may advance our understanding of protein–protein interaction networks involved in cilia development.
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Bashiri Z, Zahiri M, Allahyari H, Esmaeilzade B. Proliferation of human spermatogonial stem cells on optimized PCL/Gelatin nanofibrous scaffolds. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14380. [PMID: 35083770 DOI: 10.1111/and.14380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Improvement of culture system and increasing the proliferation of spermatogonia stem cells under in vitro condition are the essential treatment options for infertility before autologous transplantation. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the proliferation of human spermatogonia stem cells on the electrospun polycaprolactone/gelatin nanocomposite. Therefore, for this purpose, nanofiber porous scaffolds were prepared using the electrospinning method and their structures were then confirmed by SEM. After performing swelling, biodegradability and cell adhesion tests, human spermatogonia stem cells were cultured on scaffolds. In addition, both cell viability and proliferation were assessed using immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry and real-time PCR techniques in culturing during a 3-week period. SEM images indicated the presence of fibres with suitable diameters and arrangement as well as a sufficient porosity in nanocomposite scaffolds, showing good biocompatibility and biodegradability. The results show a significant increase in the number of spermatogonia stem cells in the cultured group on scaffold compared with the control group (p ≤ 0.05). As well, the results show that the expressions of integrin ɑ6 and β1 and Plzf genes estimated using real-time PCR in nanofiber scaffolds were significantly higher than those of the control group (p ≤ 0.05). However, the expression of c-Kit gene in the 3D group showed a significant decrease compared with the 2D group. Flow cytometry analysis also showed that the number of Plzf-positive cells was significantly higher in nanofiber porous scaffolds compared with the control group (p ≤ 0.05). Additionally, immunocytochemistry findings confirmed the presence of human spermatogonia stem cell colonies. In general, it seems that the designed nanocomposite scaffold could provide a suitable capacity for self-renewal of human spermatogonia stem cells, which can have a good application potential in research and reconstructive medicine related to the field of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Bashiri
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maria Zahiri
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Hamed Allahyari
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Banafshe Esmaeilzade
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
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Misiakiewicz-Has K, Pilutin A, Wiszniewska B. Influence of hormonal imbalance on the integrity of seminiferous epithelium in the testes of adult rats chronically exposed to letrozole and rats exposed to soya isoflavones during the prenatal period, lactation, and up to sexual maturity. Reprod Biol 2021; 21:100562. [PMID: 34555686 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2021.100562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The structural integrity of the germ cells in the seminiferous epithelium and the correct process of spermatogenesis are made possible by proteins that participate in the formation of different types of junctions. This study was performed on samples of the testes of 4 groups (2 experimental and 2 corresponding control) of male Wistar rats. In the first experimental group, the adult rats received letrozole - a nonsteroidal inhibitor of cytochrome P450 aromatase (P450arom). The second experimental group was exposed to soya isoflavones during the prenatal period, lactation, and up to sexual maturity. The aim of this study was to examine the immunoexpression of β-catenin, N-cadherin, occludin, connexin43, annexin V, and advanced glycation end products (AGE) in the seminiferous epithelium of rat testes with chronic estrogen deficiency and of rats exposed to soya isoflavones. Series of sections of the testes were stained using PAS and silver impregnation. Moreover, immunohistochemistry tests were performed. A semi-quantitative determination of protein immunoexpression was performed using Image J. The number of annexin V positive Sertoli cells per tubule were counted manually. Comparisons between the experimental and corresponding control groups were performed using a non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test. The most common alterations were prematurely sloughed germ cells in the lumen of the seminiferous tubules and invaginations of the seminiferous tubules. We observed a lower number of annexin V positive Sertoli cells and a lower expression of N-cadherin and occludin in the seminiferous epithelium of both groups of rats with hormonal imbalances. Moreover, a higher expression of AGE, a lower expression of connexin 43 and a lower amount of reticular fibers in the basal lamina of seminiferous tubules was present in rats treated with letrozole and a higher expression of β-catenin was found in rats exposed to soya isoflavones. The hormonal imbalance between androgens and estrogens resulted in a decreased number of annexin V positive Sertoli cells. This may be associated with a failed clearance of apoptotic germ cells that leads to disturbances in the blood-testis-barrier (BTB) by affecting the expression of junctional proteins in the seminiferous epithelium. Moreover, a decreased level of estrogens was also associated with an increased expression of AGEs and with a changed composition of basal lamina in the seminiferous tubules of rats. These changes could lead to germ cell sloughing and invaginations of the seminiferous tubules.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Misiakiewicz-Has
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland.
| | - A Pilutin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
| | - B Wiszniewska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
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Baek SY, Lee SH, Kim Y, Hong JK, Cho E, Ha S, Kim K, Sa S, Chung H. Association of the ubiquitin specific peptidase 9X -linked and Afadin expression patterns with sexual maturation in boar testis. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2021; 63:977-983. [PMID: 34796341 PMCID: PMC8564299 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2021.e86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Closely correlated expression patterns between ubiquitin specific peptidase
9X-linked (USP9X) and adherens junction formation factor (Afadin) in mouse
testis development suggests that Usp9x regulates the deubiquitination of Af-6
(also known as Afadin, AFDN), and subsequently, the cell adhesion dynamics
during gametogenesis. However, this relationship has not yet been tested in
other domestic animals. The study was examined the temporal and spatial
expression patterns of porcine USP9X and AFDN from the pre-pubertal to adult
stages using real time-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, we detected
the transcripts of USP9X and AFDN in the testis of 1-, 6- and 12-months old
boar, respectively. USP9X and AFDN were found to have similar expressions
patterns, with basal expression after 1 month followed by a significant
up-regulation from 6 months (puberty) onwards. In addition, neither the AFDN or
USP9X proteins were detected in spermatogenic cells but they were expressed in
the leydig cells and sertoli cells. USP9X was detected around the basal lamina
during pre-puberty, and predominantly expressed in the leydig cells at puberty.
Finally, in adult testis, USP9X was increased at the sertoli cell-cell interface
and the sertoli cell-spermatid interface. In summary, closely correlated
expression patterns between USP9X and AFDN in boar testis supports the previous
findings in mice. Furthermore, the junction connections between the sertoli
cells may be regulated by the ubiquitination process mediated via USP9X.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Young Baek
- Swine Science Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Cheonan 31000, Korea
| | - Seung-Hoon Lee
- Animal Biotechnology Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju 55365, Korea
| | - Youngshin Kim
- Swine Science Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Cheonan 31000, Korea
| | - Joon-Ki Hong
- Swine Science Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Cheonan 31000, Korea
| | - Eunseok Cho
- Swine Science Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Cheonan 31000, Korea
| | - Seungmin Ha
- Dairy Science Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Cheonan 31000, Korea
| | - Kyungwoon Kim
- Planning and Coordination Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju 55365, Korea
| | - Soojin Sa
- Swine Science Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Cheonan 31000, Korea
| | - Hakjae Chung
- Swine Science Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Cheonan 31000, Korea
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Cao L, Zhao J, Xu J, Zhu L, Rahman SU, Feng S, Li Y, Wu J, Wang X. N-acetylcysteine ameliorate cytotoxic injury in piglets sertoli cells induced by zearalenone and deoxynivalenol. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:60276-60289. [PMID: 34156614 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14052-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Zearalenone (ZEA) and Deoxynivalenol (DON) are two mycotoxins highly detected in agricultural products and feed. Both mycotoxins produce reproductive toxicity and pose a serious threat to human and animal health, among which pigs are the most sensitive animals. Sertoli cells (SCs) play an important role in spermatogenesis; however, the combined toxicity of ZEA and DON and the screening of effective protective agents remains to be determined. By studying the effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on the cells exposed to 20 μM of ZEA and 0.6 μM of DON, we explored the protective mechanism of NAC (4 mM) on the cytotoxic injury of piglets SCs induced by both mycotoxins. The results showed that the combination of ZEA and DON destroy organelles and SCs structures, NAC significantly alleviates the damage caused by ZEA and DON. NAC also significantly increased the expression and distribution of zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1), decreased the relative mRNA and protein expression levels of Bax, Bid, caspase-3, and caspase-9, and increased Bcl-2 expression level and inhibited the decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential. Further, NAC also eases the cell cycle arrest and oxidative stress caused by ZEA and DON. In summary, our results show that NAC could alleviate SCs injury via reducing the oxidative damage and apoptosis caused by ZEA and DON.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Jingru Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Sajid Ur Rahman
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei, 230036, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Laboratory of Quality and Safety Risk Assessment for Animal Products on Biohazards (Shanghai) of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Shibin Feng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Yu Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei, 230036, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pathobiology and Disease Control, Hefei, China
| | - Jinjie Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei, 230036, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pathobiology and Disease Control, Hefei, China
| | - Xichun Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei, 230036, China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pathobiology and Disease Control, Hefei, China.
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Yin Y, Zhu L, Li Q, Zhou P, Ma L. Cullin4 E3 Ubiquitin Ligases Regulate Male Gonocyte Migration, Proliferation and Blood-Testis Barrier Homeostasis. Cells 2021; 10:2732. [PMID: 34685710 PMCID: PMC8535100 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitination, an essential posttranslational modification, plays fundamental roles during mammalian spermatogenesis. We previously reported the requirement of two Cullin 4 ubiquitin ligase family genes, Cullin 4a (Cul4a) and Cullin 4b (Cul4b), in murine spermatogenesis. Both genes are required for male fertility despite their distinct functions in different cell populations. Cul4a is required in primary spermatocytes to promote meiosis while Cul4b is required in secondary spermatocytes for spermiogenesis. As the two genes encode proteins that are highly homologous and have overlapping expression in embryonic germ cells, they may compensate for each other during germ cell development. In the present study, we directly address the potential functional redundancy of these two proteins by deleting both Cul4 genes, specifically, in the germ cell lineage during embryonic development, using the germ-cell specific Vasa-Cre line. Conditional double-knockout (dKO) males showed delayed homing and impaired proliferation of gonocytes, and a complete loss of germ cells before the end of the first wave of spermatogenesis. The dKO male germ cell phenotype is much more severe than those observed in either single KO mutant, demonstrating the functional redundancy between the two CUL4 proteins. The dKO mutant also exhibited atypical tight junction structures, suggesting the potential involvement of CUL4 proteins in spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) niche formation and blood-testis-barrier (BTB) maintenance. We also show that deleting Cul4b in both germ and Sertoli cells is sufficient to recapitulate part of this phenotype, causing spermatogenesis defects and drastically reduced number of mature sperms, accompanied by defective tight junctions in the mutant testes. These results indicate the involvement of CUL4B in maintaining BTB integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Dermatology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (Y.Y.); (L.Z.); (Q.L.)
| | - Liming Zhu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Dermatology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (Y.Y.); (L.Z.); (Q.L.)
| | - Qiufang Li
- Department of Medicine, Division of Dermatology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (Y.Y.); (L.Z.); (Q.L.)
| | - Pengbo Zhou
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Joan and Stanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA;
| | - Liang Ma
- Department of Medicine, Division of Dermatology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (Y.Y.); (L.Z.); (Q.L.)
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Abstract
Nectins are immunoglobulin-like cell adhesion molecules constituting a family with four members, nectin-1, nectin-2, nectin-3, and nectin-4. In the brain, nectin-2 as well as nectin-1 and nectin-3 are expressed whereas nectin-4 is hardly expressed. In the nervous system, physiological functions of nectin-1 and nectin-3, such as synapse formation, mossy fiber trajectory regulation, interneurite affinity, contextual fear memory formation, and stress-related mental disorders, have been revealed. Nectin-2 is ubiquitously expressed in non-neuronal tissues and various nectin-2 functions in non-nervous systems have been extensively investigated, but nectin-2 functions in the brain have not been revealed until recently. Recent findings have revealed that nectin-2 is expressed in the specific areas of the brain and plays important roles, such as homeostasis of astrocytes and neurons and the formation of synapses. Moreover, a single nucleotide polymorphism in the human NECTIN2 gene is associated with Alzheimer's disease. We here summarize recent progress in our understanding of nectin-2 functions in the brain.
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Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ, but Not α or G-Protein Coupled Estrogen Receptor Drives Functioning of Postnatal Boar Testis-Next Generation Sequencing Analysis. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102868. [PMID: 34679887 PMCID: PMC8532933 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary As of now, the Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) analysis has not been utilized to identify biological processes and signaling pathways that are regulated in the boar postnatal testes. Our prior studies revealed that the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) and G-protein coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) were significant for the morpho-functional status of testicular cells. Here, the pharmacological blockage of PPARα, PPARγ or GPER was performed in ex vivo immature boar testes. The NGS results showed 382 transcripts with an altered expression. The blockage by the PPARγ antagonist markedly affected biological processes such as: drug metabolism (genes: Ctsh, Duox2, Atp1b1, Acss2, Pkd2, Aldh2, Hbb, Sdhd, Cox3, Nd4, Nd5, Cytb, Cbr1, and Pid1), adhesion (genes: Plpp3, Anxa1, Atp1b1, S100a8, Cd93, Ephb4, Vsir, Cldn11, Gpc4, Fermt3, Dusp26, Sox9, and Cdh5) and tube development (genes: Ctsh, Mmp14, Dll4, Anxa1, Ephb4, Pkd2, Angptl4, Robo4, Sox9, Hikeshi, Ing2, Loc100738836, and Rarres2), as well as the Notch signaling pathway. This was not the case for the PPARα or GPER antagonists. Our observations suggested that PPARγ may be the principal player in the management of the development and function of boar testes during the early postnatal window. Moreover, due to a highly similar porcine gene expression pattern to human homologues genes, our results can be used to understand both animal and human testes physiology and to predict or treat pathological processes. Abstract Porcine tissue gene expression is highly similar to the expression of homologous genes in humans. Based on this fact, the studies on porcine tissues can be employed to understand human physiology and to predict or treat diseases. Our prior studies clearly showed that there was a regulatory partnership of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) and the G-protein coupled membrane estrogen receptor (GPER) that relied upon the tumorigenesis of human and mouse testicular interstitial cells, as well as the PPAR-estrogen related receptor and GPER–xenoestrogen relationships which affected the functional status of immature boar testes. The main objective of this study was to identify the biological processes and signaling pathways governed by PPARα, PPARγ and GPER in the immature testes of seven-day-old boars after pharmacological receptor ligand treatment. Boar testicular tissues were cultured in an organotypic system with the respective PPARα, PPARγ or GPER antagonists. To evaluate the effect of the individual receptor deprivation in testicular tissue on global gene expression, Next Generation Sequencing was performed. Bioinformatic analysis revealed 382 transcripts with altered expression. While tissues treated with PPARα or GPER antagonists showed little significance in the enrichment analysis, the antagonists challenged with the PPARγ antagonist displayed significant alterations in biological processes such as: drug metabolism, adhesion and tubule development. Diverse disruption in the Notch signaling pathway was also observed. The findings of our study proposed that neither PPARα nor GPER, but PPARγ alone seemed to be the main player in the regulation of boar testes functioning during early the postnatal developmental window.
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Wu S, Li L, Wu X, Wong CKC, Sun F, Cheng CY. AKAP9 supports spermatogenesis through its effects on microtubule and actin cytoskeletons in the rat testis. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21925. [PMID: 34569663 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100960r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In mammalian testes, extensive remodeling of the microtubule (MT) and actin cytoskeletons takes place in Sertoli cells across the seminiferous epithelium to support spermatogenesis. However, the mechanism(s) involving regulatory and signaling proteins remains poorly understood. Herein, A-kinase anchoring protein 9 (AKAP9, a member of the AKAP multivalent scaffold protein family) was shown to be one of these crucial regulatory proteins in the rat testis. Earlier studies have shown that AKAP9 serves as a signaling platform by recruiting multiple signaling and regulatory proteins to create a large protein complex that binds to the Golgi and centrosome to facilitate the assembly of the MT-nucleating γ-tubulin ring complex to initiate MT polymerization. We further expanded our earlier studies based on a Sertoli cell-specific AKAP9 knockout mouse model to probe the function of AKAP9 by using the techniques of immunofluorescence analysis, RNA interference (RNAi), and biochemical assays on an in vitro primary Sertoli cell culture model, and an adjudin-based animal model. AKAP9 robustly expressed across the seminiferous epithelium in adult rat testes, colocalizing with MT-based tracks, and laid perpendicular across the seminiferous epithelium, and prominently expressed at the Sertoli-spermatid cell-cell anchoring junction (called apical ectoplasmic specialization [ES]) and at the Sertoli cell-cell interface (called basal ES, which together with tight junction [TJ] created the blood-testis barrier [BTB]) stage specifically. AKAP9 knockdown in Sertoli cells by RNAi was found to perturb the TJ-permeability barrier through disruptive changes in the distribution of BTB-associated proteins at the Sertoli cell cortical zone, mediated by a considerable loss of ability to induce both MT polymerization and actin filament bundling. A considerable decline in AKAP9 expression and a disruptive distribution of AKAP9 across the seminiferous tubules was also noted during adjudin-induced germ cell (GC) exfoliation in this animal model, illustrating AKAP9 is essential to maintain the homeostasis of cytoskeletons to maintain Sertoli and GC adhesion in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwen Wu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, USA
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, USA
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Gerez J, Gomes A, Erthal R, Fernandes G, Matos R, Verri W, Gloria E, Bracarense A. Effects of deoxynivalenol exposure at peripuberty over testicles of rats: structural and functional alterations. WORLD MYCOTOXIN J 2021. [DOI: 10.3920/wmj2020.2667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Deoxynivalenol (DON) is related to reduced reproductive performance in males and females in several species. Children and adolescents showed a high risk of exposure to DON, however, no study has evaluated reproductive effects of DON at puberty. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of DON at peripuberty on the testicles of pubertal rats. To achieve this, 10 Wistar rats (28 days old) were fed for 28 days with a DON-contaminated diet (9.4 mg/kg) or a control diet. After the experimental period, rats (56 days old) were euthanised and the following evaluations were performed in the testicles: dynamics of spermatogenesis, tubular morphometry, number of Sertoli cells and Leydig cells, analysis of caspase-3 expression, and the index of cell proliferation using the nucleolus organising regions (NOR) method. Ingestion of DON-contaminated diet induced a significant reduction in the number of Sertoli and Leydig cells and the number of seminiferous tubules in stage XIV. A significant increase in the number of NORs in seminiferous tubules in stage I-VI was observed in animals receiving the DON diet. No significant difference was noted in tubular morphometry or caspase-3 expression. Taken together, our results unravelled that the peripubertal exposure to DON compromised the testicular structure of pubertal rats, changing the dynamics of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J.R. Gerez
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, km 380, 86057-970, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - A.L.P.L. Gomes
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, km 380, 86057-970, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - R.P. Erthal
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Metabolic Reproductive Disorders, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, km 380, 86057-970, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - G.S.A. Fernandes
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Metabolic Reproductive Disorders, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, km 380, 86057-970, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - R.L.N. Matos
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, km 380, 86057-970, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - W.A. Verri
- Laboratory of Pain, Inflammation, Neuropathy and Cancer, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, km 380, 86057-970, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - E.M. Gloria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A.P.F.R.L. Bracarense
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, km 380, 86057-970, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
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Azu OO, Olojede SO, Lawal SK, Oseni SO, Rennie CO, Offo U, Naidu ECS. Novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) infection: Microbiologic perspectives and anatomic considerations for sanctuary sites. J Infect Public Health 2021; 14:1237-1246. [PMID: 34455307 PMCID: PMC8378066 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2021.08.015] [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: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction A significant chunk of global life – the economy, sports, aviation, academic, and entertainment activities – has significantly been affected by the ravaging outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) with devastating consequences on morbidity and mortality in many countries of the world. Methods This review utilized search engines such as google scholar, PubMed, ResearchGate, and web of science to retrieve articles and information using keywords like “Coronavirus”, “SARS-CoV-2”, “COVID-19”, “Origin of coronavirus and SARS-CoV-2”, “microbiology of coronavirus”, “microbiology of SARS-CoV-2”, COVID-19”, “Coronavirus reservoir sites”, “Anatomic sanctuary sites and SARS-CoV-2”, biological barriers and coronavirus”, biological barrier and SARS-CoV-2”. Results While this pandemic has caught the global scientific community at its lowest level of preparedness, it has inadvertently created a unified and wholesome approach towards developing potential vaccine (s) candidates by escalating clinical trial protocols in many countries of Europe, China and the United States. Interestingly, viral pathobiology continues to be an evolving aspect that potentially shows that the management of the current outbreak may largely depend on the discovery of a vaccine as the administration of known antiviral drugs are proving to offer some respite. Unfortunately, discontinuation and longtime administration of these drugs have been implicated in endocrine, reproductive and neurological disorders owing to the development of pathological lesions at anatomical sanctuary sites such as the brain and testis, as well as the presence of complex biological barriers that permit the entry of viruses but selective to the entrance of chemical substances and drugs. Conclusion This review focuses on the microbiologic perspectives and importance of anatomical sanctuary sites in the possible viral rebound or reinfection into the system and their implications in viral re-entry and development of reproductive and neurological disorders in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onyemaechi O Azu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Namibia, Private Bag, Windhoek, 13301, Namibia.
| | - Samuel O Olojede
- Discipline of Clinical Anatomy, School of Laboratory Medicine & Medical Sciences, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, 719 Umbilo Road, Durban, South Africa
| | - Sodiq K Lawal
- Discipline of Clinical Anatomy, School of Laboratory Medicine & Medical Sciences, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, 719 Umbilo Road, Durban, South Africa
| | - Saheed O Oseni
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Davie, FL 33314, USA
| | - Carmen O Rennie
- Discipline of Clinical Anatomy, School of Laboratory Medicine & Medical Sciences, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, 719 Umbilo Road, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ugochukwu Offo
- Department of Pre-Clinical Sciences, University of Limpopo, South Africa
| | - Edwin C S Naidu
- Discipline of Clinical Anatomy, School of Laboratory Medicine & Medical Sciences, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, 719 Umbilo Road, Durban, South Africa
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Rode K, Langeheine M, Seeger B, Brehm R. Connexin43 in Germ Cells Seems to Be Dispensable for Murine Spermatogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157924. [PMID: 34360693 PMCID: PMC8348783 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular Connexin43 (Cx43) connects adjacent Sertoli cells (SC) and SC to germ cells (GC) in the seminiferous epithelium and plays a crucial role in spermatogenesis. However, the distinction whether this results from impaired inter-SC communication or between GC and SC is not possible, so far. Thus, the question arises, whether a GC-specific Cx43 KO has similar effects on spermatogenesis as it is general or SC-specific KO. Using the Cre/loxP recombinase system, two conditional KO mouse lines lacking Cx43 in premeiotic (pGCCx43KO) or meiotic GC (mGCCx43KO) were generated. It was demonstrated by qRT-PCR that Cx43 mRNA was significantly decreased in adult pGCCx43KO mice, while it was also reduced in mGCCx43KO mice, yet not statistically significant. Body and testis weights, testicular histology, tubular diameter, numbers of intratubular cells and Cx43 protein synthesis and localization did not show any significant differences in semi-quantitative Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry comparing adult male KO and WT mice of both mouse lines. Male KO mice were fertile. These results indicate that Cx43 in spermatogonia/spermatids does not seem to be essential for successful termination of spermatogenesis and fertility as it is known for Cx43 in somatic SC, but SC-GC communication might rather occur via heterotypic GJ channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Rode
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Foundation, 30173 Hanover, Germany; (K.R.); (M.L.)
| | - Marion Langeheine
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Foundation, 30173 Hanover, Germany; (K.R.); (M.L.)
| | - Bettina Seeger
- Institute for Food Quality and Food Safety, University of Veterinary Medicine Foundation, 30173 Hanover, Germany;
| | - Ralph Brehm
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Foundation, 30173 Hanover, Germany; (K.R.); (M.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-511-8457215
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Cellular Therapy via Spermatogonial Stem Cells for Treating Impaired Spermatogenesis, Non-Obstructive Azoospermia. Cells 2021; 10:cells10071779. [PMID: 34359947 PMCID: PMC8304133 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a major health problem affecting about 8–12% of couples worldwide. Spermatogenesis starts in the early fetus and completes after puberty, passing through different stages. Male infertility can result from primary or congenital, acquired, or idiopathic causes. The absence of sperm in semen, or azoospermia, results from non-obstructive causes (pretesticular and testicular), and post-testicular obstructive causes. Several medications such as antihypertensive drugs, antidepressants, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy could lead to impaired spermatogenesis and lead to a non-obstructive azoospermia. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the basis for spermatogenesis and fertility in men. SSCs are characterized by their capacity to maintain the self-renewal process and differentiation into spermatozoa throughout the male reproductive life and transmit genetic information to the next generation. SSCs originate from gonocytes in the postnatal testis, which originate from long-lived primordial germ cells during embryonic development. The treatment of infertility in males has a poor prognosis. However, SSCs are viewed as a promising alternative for the regeneration of the impaired or damaged spermatogenesis. SSC transplantation is a promising technique for male infertility treatment and restoration of spermatogenesis in the case of degenerative diseases such as cancer, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. The process involves isolation of SSCs and cryopreservation from a testicular biopsy before starting cancer treatment, followed by intra-testicular stem cell transplantation. In general, treatment for male infertility, even with SSC transplantation, still has several obstacles. The efficiency of cryopreservation, exclusion of malignant cells contamination in cancer patients, and socio-cultural attitudes remain major challenges to the wider application of SSCs as alternatives. Furthermore, there are limitations in experience and knowledge regarding cryopreservation of SSCs. However, the level of infrastructure or availability of regulatory approval to process and preserve testicular tissue makes them tangible and accurate therapy options for male infertility caused by non-obstructive azoospermia, though in their infancy, at least to date.
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Aydos K, Aydos OS. Sperm Selection Procedures for Optimizing the Outcome of ICSI in Patients with NOA. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10122687. [PMID: 34207121 PMCID: PMC8234729 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10122687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Retrieving spermatozoa from the testicles has been a great hope for patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), but relevant methods have not yet been developed to the level necessary to provide resolutions for all cases of NOA. Although performing testicular sperm extraction under microscopic magnification has increased sperm retrieval rates, in vitro selection and processing of quality sperm plays an essential role in the success of in vitro fertilization. Moreover, sperm cryopreservation is widely used in assisted reproductive technologies, whether for therapeutic purposes or for future fertility preservation. In recent years, there have been new developments using advanced technologies to freeze and preserve even very small numbers of sperm for which conventional techniques are inadequate. The present review provides an up-to-date summary of current strategies for maximizing sperm recovery from surgically obtained testicular samples and, as an extension, optimization of in vitro sperm processing techniques in the management of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaan Aydos
- Department of Urology, Reproductive Health Research Center, School of Medicine, University of Ankara, 06230 Ankara, Turkey
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +90-533-748-8995
| | - Oya Sena Aydos
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Ankara, 06230 Ankara, Turkey;
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Peña-Corona SI, Vásquez Aguire WS, Vargas D, Juárez I, Mendoza-Rodríguez CA. Effects of bisphenols on Blood-Testis Barrier protein expression in vitro: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 103:139-148. [PMID: 34146661 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Bisphenols are a group of environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals that produce alterations in the expression of intercellular junction proteins of the Blood-Testis Barrier (BTB) involved in spermatogenesis. The association between bisphenol exposure and BTB protein expression is controversial. Therefore, we performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify bisphenol effects on Sertoli cell BTB protein expression in vitro. The Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) with a 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI) was used to evaluate the association between alterations in the BTB protein expression and bisphenol exposure in vitro. Six articles were included in the meta-analysis. Bisphenol-A (BPA) exposure at 200 μM was associated with significant decrease in BTB protein expression (SMD = -2.70, 95 %CI: -3.59, -1.80, p het = 0.46, p = <0.00001). In the moderate (40-50 μM) and low dose (<25 μM), no significant associations were obtained. We also found a non-monotonic dose-response curve of bisphenol effect in ZO-1 protein expression; low and high doses presented a significant decrease compared to control, while moderate dose presented no change. The current temporary Tolerable Daily Intake (tTDI) of BPA is 4 μg/kg bw/day. The 5-25 μM doses of BPA are equivalent to ∼1-5 mg/kg bw, respectively. Although the low dose group (<25 μM) assessed doses below the previous NOAEL value, these doses are above the current tTDI. Thus, it is necessary to conduct more studies with lower bisphenol concentrations to avoid underestimating the potential adverse effects of bisphenols at doses below tTDI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Irais Peña-Corona
- Facultad de Química, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Walker Sixto Vásquez Aguire
- Facultad de Ciencias Matemáticas, Escuela Académica de Estadística, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos 15081, Lima, Peru
| | - Dinorah Vargas
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Ivan Juárez
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Departamento de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - C Adriana Mendoza-Rodríguez
- Facultad de Química, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
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Zhang L, Zhao X, Wang W. Disruption of anchoring junctions in the testes of experimental varicocele rats. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:887. [PMID: 34194565 PMCID: PMC8237278 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is a common disease of the male reproductive system and is the main cause of male infertility; however, the pathological mechanisms of varicocele remain unclear. The anchoring junctions (AJs) in the testies are located between Sertoli cells, or between Sertoli cells and germ cells. Intact and functional AJs are crucial for spermatogenesis. In the present study, the histomorphology, ultrastructure of AJ, cell cycle, expression of AJ structural proteins, and the level of AJ-associated signaling molecules were investigated in the left testes of experimental varicocele rats at 8 and 12 weeks after surgery. The results revealed that varicocele induced the loss of premature germ cells from the seminiferous epithelium. Furthermore, the results of the present study also revealed damage to the AJ ultrastructure, disorientation of the spermatid head, deregulation of the cell cycle, downregulation of AJ structural proteins, enhanced phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) at Tyr397 and its downstream adapter Src at Tyr416, and activation of the extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1 (ERK1) signaling pathway. Thus, the present study demonstrated that varicocele disrupted the structure and function of AJs in the left testes of rats, and that enhancement of FAK phosphorylation may contribute to AJ damage by activating ERK1 signaling, disrupting actin-based filament networks, and altering the balance of the apical ectoplasmic specialization-blood testis barrier functional axis. These findings provide important insights into the pathological mechanisms through which varicocele contributes to male infertility and could help to identify new therapeutic targets for varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurodegenerative Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China.,Laboratory of Clinical Applied Anatomy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Xiaozhen Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurodegenerative Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China.,Laboratory of Clinical Applied Anatomy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurodegenerative Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China.,Laboratory of Clinical Applied Anatomy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
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49
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Holcomb RJ, Oura S, Nozawa K, Kent K, Yu Z, Robertson MJ, Coarfa C, Matzuk MM, Ikawa M, Garcia TX. The testis-specific serine proteases PRSS44, PRSS46, and PRSS54 are dispensable for male mouse fertility†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:84-91. [PMID: 31403672 PMCID: PMC7013879 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
High-throughput transcriptomics and proteomics approaches have recently identified a large number of germ cell-specific genes with many that remain to be studied through functional genetics approaches. Serine proteases (PRSS) constitute nearly one-third of all proteases, and, in our bioinformatics screens, we identified many that are testis specific. In this study, we chose to focus on Prss44, Prss46, and Prss54, which we confirmed as testis specific in mouse and human. Based on the analysis of developmental expression in the mouse, expression of all four genes is restricted to the late stage of spermatogenesis concomitant with a potential functional role in spermiogenesis, spermiation, or sperm function. To best understand the male reproductive requirement and functional roles of these serine proteases, each gene was individually ablated by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated ES cell or zygote approach. Homozygous deletion mutants for each gene were obtained and analyzed for phenotypic changes. Analyses of testis weights, testis and epididymis histology, sperm morphology, and fertility revealed no significant differences in Prss44, Prss46, and Prss54 knockout mice in comparison to controls. Our results thereby demonstrate that these genes are not required for normal fertility in mice, although do not preclude the possibility that these genes may function in a redundant manner. Elucidating the individual functional requirement or lack thereof of these novel genes is necessary to build a better understanding of the factors underlying spermatogenesis and sperm maturation, which has implications in understanding the etiology of male infertility and the development of male contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Holcomb
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Seiya Oura
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kaori Nozawa
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Katarzyna Kent
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zhifeng Yu
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Matthew J Robertson
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Advanced Technology Cores, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cristian Coarfa
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Thomas X Garcia
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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50
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Li H, Liu S, Wu S, Li L, Ge R, Cheng CY. Bioactive fragments of laminin and collagen chains: lesson from the testis. Reproduction 2021; 159:R111-R123. [PMID: 31581125 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that the testis is producing several biologically active peptides, namely the F5- and the NC1-peptides from laminin-γ3 and collagen α3 (IV) chain, respectively, that promotes blood-testis barrier (BTB) remodeling and also elongated spermatid release at spermiation. Also the LG3/4/5 peptide from laminin-α2 chain promotes BTB integrity which is likely being used for the assembly of a 'new' BTB behind preleptotene spermatocytes under transport at the immunological barrier. These findings thus provide a new opportunity for investigators to better understand the biology of spermatogenesis. Herein, we briefly summarize the recent findings and provide a critical update. We also present a hypothetical model which could serve as the framework for studies in the years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huitao Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, USA
| | - Shiwen Liu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, USA
| | - Siwen Wu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, USA
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, USA
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, USA
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