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Washburn RL, Dufour JM. Gene expression profiles of neonatal porcine Sertoli cells at baseline and after incubation in normal human serum as determined by RNA sequencing. Tissue Barriers 2024; 12:2242060. [PMID: 37517002 PMCID: PMC11262223 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2023.2242060] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are unique cells that contribute to the formation of the blood-testis barrier, which is important in sustaining the environment to promote spermatogenesis and to protect immunogenic germ cells from autoimmune destruction. This is achieved through tight junctions and production of regulatory immune factors. These Sertoli cell attributes make them a relevant model for various studies involving male reproduction, autoimmune protection, and even transplantation. RNA sequencing analyses were performed on baseline neonatal porcine Sertoli cells (NPSC) and NPSC after incubation in normal human serum for 90 minutes. We previously analyzed this data for immune-related factors, such as complement components, and for differentially expressed genes related to immune function. Still, these data sets provide insight into understanding how Sertoli cells create an immunoregulatory environment, which has applications in reproduction, transplantation, and autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L. Washburn
- Department of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jannette M. Dufour
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
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2
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Chiappalupi S, Salvadori L, Borghi M, Mancuso F, Pariano M, Riuzzi F, Luca G, Romani L, Arato I, Sorci G. Grafted Sertoli Cells Exert Immunomodulatory Non-Immunosuppressive Effects in Preclinical Models of Infection and Cancer. Cells 2024; 13:544. [PMID: 38534388 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060544] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The Sertoli cells (SeCs) of the seminiferous tubules secrete a multitude of immunoregulatory and trophic factors to provide immune protection and assist in the orderly development of germ cells. Grafts of naked or encapsulated SeCs have been proved to represent an interesting therapeutic option in a plethora of experimental models of diseases. However, whether SeCs have immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory effects, which is imperative for their clinical translatability, has not been demonstrated. We directly assessed the immunopotential of intraperitoneally grafted microencapsulated porcine SeCs (MC-SeCs) in murine models of fungal infection (Aspergillus fumigatus or Candida albicans) or cancer (Lewis lung carcinoma/LLC or B16 melanoma cells). We found that MC-SeCs (i) provide antifungal resistance with minimum inflammatory pathology through the activation of the tolerogenic aryl hydrocarbon receptor/indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase pathway; (ii) do not affect tumor growth in vivo; and (iii) reduce the LLC cell metastatic cancer spread associated with restricted Vegfr2 expression in primary tumors. Our results point to the fine immunoregulation of SeCs in the relative absence of overt immunosuppression in both infection and cancer conditions, providing additional support for the potential therapeutic use of SeC grafts in human patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Chiappalupi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Biotecnologie (CIB), 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Laura Salvadori
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Monica Borghi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesca Mancuso
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Marilena Pariano
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesca Riuzzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Biotecnologie (CIB), 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Centro Biotecnologico Internazionale di Ricerca Traslazionale ad indirizzo Endocrino, Metabolico ed Embrio-Riproduttivo (CIRTEMER), 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Centro Universitario di Ricerca sulla Genomica Funzionale (CURGeF), 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Luigina Romani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Iva Arato
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Sorci
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Biotecnologie (CIB), 34127 Trieste, Italy
- Centro Biotecnologico Internazionale di Ricerca Traslazionale ad indirizzo Endocrino, Metabolico ed Embrio-Riproduttivo (CIRTEMER), 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Centro Universitario di Ricerca sulla Genomica Funzionale (CURGeF), 06132 Perugia, Italy
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3
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Später T, Kaneda G, Chavez M, Sheyn J, Wechsler J, Yu V, Del Rio P, Huang D, Metzger M, Tawackoli W, Sheyn D. Retention of Human iPSC-Derived or Primary Cells Following Xenotransplantation into Rat Immune-Privileged Sites. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:1049. [PMID: 37760151 PMCID: PMC10525500 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10091049] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In regenerative medicine, experimental animal models are commonly used to study potential effects of human cells as therapeutic candidates. Although some studies describe certain cells, such as mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) or human primary cells, as hypoimmunogenic and therefore unable to trigger strong inflammatory host responses, other studies report antibody formation and immune rejection following xenotransplantation. Accordingly, the goal of our study was to test the cellular retention and survival of human-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSCs)-derived MSCs (iMSCs) and primary nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) following their xenotransplantation into immune-privileged knee joints (14 days) and intervertebral discs (IVD; 7 days) of immunocompromised Nude and immunocompetent Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. At the end of both experiments, we could demonstrate that both rat types revealed comparably low levels of systemic IL-6 and IgM inflammation markers, as assessed via ELISA. Furthermore, the number of recovered cells was with no significant difference between both rat types. Conclusively, our results show that xenogeneic injection of human iMSC and NPC into immunoprivileged knee and IVD sites did not lead to an elevated inflammatory response in immunocompetent rats when compared to immunocompromised rats. Hence, immunocompetent rats represent suitable animals for xenotransplantation studies targeting immunoprivileged sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Später
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (T.S.); (G.K.); (M.C.); (J.S.); (J.W.); (V.Y.); (P.D.R.); (W.T.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Giselle Kaneda
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (T.S.); (G.K.); (M.C.); (J.S.); (J.W.); (V.Y.); (P.D.R.); (W.T.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Melissa Chavez
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (T.S.); (G.K.); (M.C.); (J.S.); (J.W.); (V.Y.); (P.D.R.); (W.T.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Julia Sheyn
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (T.S.); (G.K.); (M.C.); (J.S.); (J.W.); (V.Y.); (P.D.R.); (W.T.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Jacob Wechsler
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (T.S.); (G.K.); (M.C.); (J.S.); (J.W.); (V.Y.); (P.D.R.); (W.T.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Victoria Yu
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (T.S.); (G.K.); (M.C.); (J.S.); (J.W.); (V.Y.); (P.D.R.); (W.T.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Patricia Del Rio
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (T.S.); (G.K.); (M.C.); (J.S.); (J.W.); (V.Y.); (P.D.R.); (W.T.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Dave Huang
- Orthopedics Biomechanics Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (D.H.); (M.M.)
- Department of Orthopedics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Melodie Metzger
- Orthopedics Biomechanics Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (D.H.); (M.M.)
- Department of Orthopedics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Wafa Tawackoli
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (T.S.); (G.K.); (M.C.); (J.S.); (J.W.); (V.Y.); (P.D.R.); (W.T.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Orthopedics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Dmitriy Sheyn
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (T.S.); (G.K.); (M.C.); (J.S.); (J.W.); (V.Y.); (P.D.R.); (W.T.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Orthopedics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
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4
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Washburn RL, Martinez-Marin D, Sniegowski T, Korać K, Rodriguez AR, Miranda JM, Chilton BS, Bright RK, Pruitt K, Bhutia YD, Dufour JM. Sertoli Cells Express Accommodation, Survival, and Immunoregulatory Factors When Exposed to Normal Human Serum. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1650. [PMID: 37371745 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Transplantation is a clinical procedure that treats a variety of diseases yet is unattainable for many patients due to a nationwide organ shortage and the harsh side effects of chronic immune suppression. Xenografted pig organs are an attractive alternative to traditional allografts and would provide an endless supply of transplantable tissue, but transplants risk rejection by the recipient's immune system. An essential component of the rejection immune response is the complement system. Sertoli cells, an immunoregulatory testicular cell, survive complement as xenografts long term without any immune suppressants. We hypothesized that exposure to the xenogeneic complement influences Sertoli cell gene expression of other accommodation factors that contribute to their survival; thus, the purpose of this study was to describe these potential changes in gene expression. RNA sequencing of baseline neonatal pig Sertoli cells (NPSC) as compared to NPSC after exposure to normal human serum (NHS, containing complement) revealed 62 significantly differentially expressed genes (DEG) that affect over 30 pathways involved in immune regulation, cell survival, and transplant accommodation. Twelve genes of interest were selected for further study, and Sertoli cell protein expression of CCL2 and the accommodation factor A20 were confirmed for the first time. Functional pathway analyses were conducted in NPSC and three biological clusters were revealed as being considerably affected by NHS exposure: innate immune signaling, cytokine signaling, and T cell regulation. Better understanding of the interaction of Sertoli cells with complement in a xenograft environment may reveal the mechanisms behind immune-privileged systems to increase graft viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Washburn
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Dalia Martinez-Marin
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Tyler Sniegowski
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Ksenija Korać
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Alexis R Rodriguez
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Jonathan M Miranda
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Beverly S Chilton
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Robert K Bright
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Kevin Pruitt
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Yangzom D Bhutia
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Jannette M Dufour
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
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5
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Washburn RL, Dufour JM. Complementing Testicular Immune Regulation: The Relationship between Sertoli Cells, Complement, and the Immune Response. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043371. [PMID: 36834786 PMCID: PMC9965741 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells within the testis are instrumental in providing an environment for spermatogenesis and protecting the developing germ cells from detrimental immune responses which could affect fertility. Though these immune responses consist of many immune processes, this review focuses on the understudied complement system. Complement consists of 50+ proteins including regulatory proteins, immune receptors, and a cascade of proteolytic cleavages resulting in target cell destruction. In the testis, Sertoli cells protect the germ cells from autoimmune destruction by creating an immunoregulatory environment. Most studies on Sertoli cells and complement have been conducted in transplantation models, which are effective in studying immune regulation during robust rejection responses. In grafts, Sertoli cells survive activated complement, have decreased deposition of complement fragments, and express many complement inhibitors. Moreover, the grafts have delayed infiltration of immune cells and contain increased infiltration of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells as compared to rejecting grafts. Additionally, anti-sperm antibodies and lymphocyte infiltration have been detected in up to 50% and 30% of infertile testes, respectively. This review seeks to provide an updated overview of the complement system, describe its relationship with immune cells, and explain how Sertoli cells may regulate complement in immunoprotection. Identifying the mechanism Sertoli cells use to protect themselves and germ cells against complement and immune destruction is relevant for male reproduction, autoimmunity, and transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Washburn
- Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Jannette M Dufour
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
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6
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Washburn RL, Martinez-Marin D, Korać K, Sniegowski T, Rodriguez AR, Chilton BS, Hibler T, Pruitt K, Bhutia YD, Dufour JM. The Sertoli Cell Complement Signature: A Suspected Mechanism in Xenograft Survival. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031890. [PMID: 36768217 PMCID: PMC9916409 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The complement system is an important component of transplant rejection. Sertoli cells, an immune regulatory testicular cell, survive long-term when transplanted across immunological barriers; thus, understanding the mechanisms behind this unique survival would be of great benefit to the transplantation field. This study focused on Sertoli cell inhibition of complement as relevant in xenotransplantation. Neonatal pig Sertoli cells (NPSCs) survived activated human complement in vitro while neonatal pig islet (NPI) aggregates and pig aortic endothelial cell (PAEC) survival were diminished to about 65% and 12%, respectively. PAECs cultured in NPSC-conditioned media and human complement demonstrated a 200% increase in survival suggesting that NPSCs secrete complement-inhibiting substances that confer protection. Bioinformatic and molecular analyses identified 21 complement inhibitors expressed by NPSCs with several significantly increased in NPSCs compared to NPIs or PAECs. Lastly, RNA sequencing revealed that NPSCs express 25 other complement factors including cascade components and receptors. Overall, this study identified the most comprehensive Sertoli cell complement signature to date and indicates that the expression of a variety of complement inhibitors ensures a proper regulation of complement through redundant inhibition points. Understanding the regulation of the complement system should be further investigated for extending xenograft viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L. Washburn
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79404, USA
| | - Dalia Martinez-Marin
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79404, USA
| | - Ksenija Korać
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Tyler Sniegowski
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Alexis R. Rodriguez
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Beverly S. Chilton
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Taylor Hibler
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79404, USA
| | - Kevin Pruitt
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79404, USA
| | - Yangzom D. Bhutia
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Jannette M. Dufour
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
- Correspondence:
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Corpuz-Hilsabeck M, Culty M. Impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals and pharmaceuticals on Sertoli cell development and functions. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1095894. [PMID: 36793282 PMCID: PMC9922725 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1095894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells play essential roles in male reproduction, from supporting fetal testis development to nurturing male germ cells from fetal life to adulthood. Dysregulating Sertoli cell functions can have lifelong adverse effects by jeopardizing early processes such as testis organogenesis, and long-lasting processes such as spermatogenesis. Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is recognized as contributing to the rising incidence of male reproductive disorders and decreasing sperm counts and quality in humans. Some drugs also act as endocrine disruptors by exerting off-target effects on endocrine tissues. However, the mechanisms of toxicity of these compounds on male reproduction at doses compatible with human exposure are still not fully resolved, especially in the case of mixtures, which remain understudied. This review presents first an overview of the mechanisms regulating Sertoli cell development, maintenance, and functions, and then surveys what is known on the impact of EDCs and drugs on immature Sertoli cells, including individual compounds and mixtures, and pinpointing at knowledge gaps. Performing more studies on the impact of mixtures of EDCs and drugs at all ages is crucial to fully understand the adverse outcomes these chemicals may induce on the reproductive system.
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Thumfart KM, Lazzeri S, Manuella F, Mansuy IM. Long-term effects of early postnatal stress on Sertoli cells. Front Genet 2022; 13:1024805. [PMID: 36353105 PMCID: PMC9638847 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1024805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are somatic cells in testis essential for spermatogenesis, that support the development, maturation, and differentiation of germ cells. Sertoli cells are metabolically highly active and physiologically regulated by external signals, particularly factors in the blood stream. In disease conditions, circulating pathological signals may affect Sertoli cells and consequentially, alter germ cells and fertility. While the effects of stress on reproductive cells have been well studied, how Sertoli cells respond to stress remains poorly characterized. We used a mouse model of early postnatal stress to assess the effects of stress on Sertoli cells. We developed an improved strategy based on intracellular stainings and obtained enriched preparations of Sertoli cells from exposed males. We show that adult Sertoli cells have impaired electron transport chain (ETC) pathways and that several components of ETC complexes particularly complex I, III, and IV are persistently affected. We identify serum as potential mediator of the effects of stress on Sertoli cells by showing that it can recapitulate ETC alterations in primary cells. These results highlight Sertoli cells as cellular targets of stress in early life that can keep a trace of exposure until adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina M. Thumfart
- Laboratory of Neuroepigenetics, Neuroscience Center Zürich, Brain Research Institute, Medical Faculty of the University Zürich, and Institute of Neuroscience of the Department of Health Science and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Samuel Lazzeri
- Laboratory of Neuroepigenetics, Neuroscience Center Zürich, Brain Research Institute, Medical Faculty of the University Zürich, and Institute of Neuroscience of the Department of Health Science and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
- IFOM, FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Manuella
- Laboratory of Neuroepigenetics, Neuroscience Center Zürich, Brain Research Institute, Medical Faculty of the University Zürich, and Institute of Neuroscience of the Department of Health Science and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Isabelle M. Mansuy
- Laboratory of Neuroepigenetics, Neuroscience Center Zürich, Brain Research Institute, Medical Faculty of the University Zürich, and Institute of Neuroscience of the Department of Health Science and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
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9
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Washburn RL, Hibler T, Kaur G, Dufour JM. Sertoli Cell Immune Regulation: A Double-Edged Sword. Front Immunol 2022; 13:913502. [PMID: 35757731 PMCID: PMC9218077 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.913502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The testis must create and maintain an immune privileged environment to protect maturing germ cells from autoimmune destruction. The establishment of this protective environment is due, at least in part, to Sertoli cells. Sertoli cells line the seminiferous tubules and form the blood-testis barrier (BTB), a barrier between advanced germ cells and the immune system. The BTB compartmentalizes the germ cells and facilitates the appropriate microenvironment necessary for spermatogenesis. Further, Sertoli cells modulate innate and adaptive immune processes through production of immunoregulatory compounds. Sertoli cells, when transplanted ectopically (outside the testis), can also protect transplanted tissue from the recipient’s immune system and reduce immune complications in autoimmune diseases primarily by immune regulation. These properties make Sertoli cells an attractive candidate for inflammatory disease treatments and cell-based therapies. Conversely, the same properties that protect the germ cells also allow the testis to act as a reservoir site for infections. Interestingly, Sertoli cells also have the ability to mount an antimicrobial response, if necessary, as in the case of infections. This review aims to explore how Sertoli cells act as a double-edged sword to both protect germ cells from an autoimmune response and activate innate and adaptive immune responses to fight off infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Washburn
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.,Immunology and Infectious Disease Concentration, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Taylor Hibler
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.,Immunology and Infectious Disease Concentration, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Gurvinder Kaur
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.,Department of Medical Education, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Jannette M Dufour
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.,Immunology and Infectious Disease Concentration, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.,Department of Medical Education, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
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Vegrichtova M, Hajkova M, Porubska B, Vasek D, Krylov V, Tlapakova T, Krulova M. Xenogeneic Sertoli cells modulate immune response in an evolutionary distant mouse model through the production of interleukin-10 and PD-1 ligands expression. Xenotransplantation 2022; 29:e12742. [PMID: 35297099 DOI: 10.1111/xen.12742] [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: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunomodulatory mechanisms of Sertoli cells (SCs) during phylogeny have not been described previously. This study attempted to reveal mechanisms of SC immune modulation in an evolutionary distant host. METHODS The interaction of the SC cell line derived from Xenopus tropicalis (XtSC) with murine immune cells was studied in vivo and in vitro. The changes in the cytokine production, the intracellular and surface molecules expression on murine immune cells were evaluated after co-culturing with XtSCs. Migration of XtSCs in mouse recipients after intravenous application and subsequent changes in spleen and the testicular immune environment were determined by flow cytometry. RESULTS The in vitro co-culture model was established, allowing the study of XtSCs interaction with murine immune cells. Intracellular staining of interleukin (IL-)10 revealed a significant increase in its expression in macrophages and B cells co-cultured with XtSCs, compared to both unstimulated cells and xenogeneic control. On the contrary, a significant decrease in Th lymphocytes expressing interferon-gamma was observed. The expression of both PD-1 ligands (PD-L1 and PD-L2) was upregulated on the macrophage surfaces after co-culture with XtSCs, but not with the controls. XtSCs migrated specifically to testes when administered intravenously and modulated systemic and local testicular microenvironment; this was detected by the expression of molecules associated with suppressive phenotype by CD45+ cells in both spleen and testes. CONCLUSION We have demonstrated for the first time that SCs can migrate and modulate immune response in a phylogenetically distant host. It was further observed that SCs induce expression of molecules associated with immunosuppression, such as IL-10 and PD-1 ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marketa Vegrichtova
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Hajkova
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague 2, Czech Republic.,Department of Nanotoxicology and Molecular Epidemiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Bianka Porubska
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague 2, Czech Republic.,Department of Nanotoxicology and Molecular Epidemiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Vasek
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimir Krylov
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Tlapakova
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Magdalena Krulova
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague 2, Czech Republic.,Department of Nanotoxicology and Molecular Epidemiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 4, Czech Republic
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Cdc42 activity in Sertoli cells is essential for maintenance of spermatogenesis. Cell Rep 2021; 37:109885. [PMID: 34706238 PMCID: PMC8604081 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are highly polarized testicular supporting cells that simultaneously nurture multiple stages of germ cells during spermatogenesis. Proper localization of polarity protein complexes within Sertoli cells, including those responsible for blood-testis barrier formation, is vital for spermatogenesis. However, the mechanisms and developmental timing that underlie Sertoli cell polarity are poorly understood. We investigate this aspect of testicular function by conditionally deleting Cdc42, encoding a Rho GTPase involved in regulating cell polarity, specifically in Sertoli cells. Sertoli Cdc42 deletion leads to increased apoptosis and disrupted polarity of juvenile and adult testes but does not affect fetal and postnatal testicular development. The onset of the first wave of spermatogenesis occurs normally, but it fails to progress past round spermatid stages, and by young adulthood, conditional knockout males exhibit a complete loss of spermatogenic cells. These findings demonstrate that Cdc42 is essential for Sertoli cell polarity and for maintaining steady-state sperm production. Sertoli cells of the testicular seminiferous tubule must be highly polarized to simultaneously sustain multiple stages of germ cells during spermatogenesis. Heinrich et al. use a Sertoli-specific conditional deletion mouse model to address the roles of CDC42-mediated apicobasal cell polarity in promoting testis development and spermatogenesis.
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Washburn RL, Hibler T, Thompson LA, Kaur G, Dufour JM. Therapeutic application of Sertoli cells for treatment of various diseases. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 121:10-23. [PMID: 33910764 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs) are immune privileged cells found in the testis that function to immunologically protect maturing germ cells from immune destruction. This immune protection is due to the blood-testis-barrier, which prevents infiltration of cytotoxic immune cells and antibodies, and SC production of immunomodulatory factors, that favor a tolerogenic environment. The ability of SCs to create an immune privileged environment has led to the exploration of their potential use in the treatment of various diseases. SCs have been utilized to create a tolerogenic ectopic microenvironment, to protect co-grafted cells, and to deliver therapeutic proteins through gene therapy. To date, numerous studies have reported the potential use of SCs for the treatment of diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and restoration of spermatogenesis. Additionally, SCs have been investigated as a delivery vehicle for therapeutic products to treat other diseases like Laron syndrome, muscular dystrophy, and infections. This review will provide an overview of these therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Washburn
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Taylor Hibler
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Lea Ann Thompson
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Gurvinder Kaur
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Medical Education, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Jannette M Dufour
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Medical Education, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
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Gong J, Zeng Q, Yu D, Duan YG. T Lymphocytes and Testicular Immunity: A New Insight into Immune Regulation in Testes. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010057. [PMID: 33374605 PMCID: PMC7793097 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune privilege of the testes is necessary to prevent immune attacks to gamete-specific antigens and paternal major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens, allowing for normal spermatogenesis. However, infection and inflammation of the male genital tract can break the immune tolerance and represent a significant cause of male infertility. Different T cell subsets have been identified in mammalian testes, which may be involved in the maintenance of immune tolerance and pathogenic immune responses in testicular infection and inflammation. We reviewed the evidence in the published literature on different T subtypes (regulatory T cells, helper T cells, cytotoxic T cells, γδ T cells, and natural killer T cells) in human and animal testes that support their regulatory roles in infertility and the orchitis pathology. While many in vitro studies have indicated the regulation potential of functional T cell subsets and their possible interaction with Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and spermatogenesis, both under physiological and pathological processes, there have been no in situ studies to date. Nevertheless, the normal distribution and function of T cell subsets are essential for the immune privilege of the testes and intact spermatogenesis, and T cell-mediated immune response drives testicular inflammation. The distinct function of different T cell subsets in testicular homeostasis and the orchitis pathology suggests a considerable potential of targeting specific T cell subsets for therapies targeting chronic orchitis and immune infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialei Gong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - Qunxiong Zeng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - Di Yu
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Yong-Gang Duan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, China
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