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Pewhom A, Supapakorn T, Srakaew N. Male reproductive cycle in a population of the endemic butterfly lizard, Leiolepis ocellata Peters, 1971 (Squamata: Agamidae) from northern Thailand. BMC ZOOL 2022; 7:45. [PMID: 37170386 PMCID: PMC10127433 DOI: 10.1186/s40850-022-00145-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Fundamental knowledge on the seasonal reproductive microanatomy and endocrinology of reptiles has been collected from several studies of various species. The present study was to determine annual changes in hormonal profiles, and detailed histomorphometric and histochemical characteristics of the entire male reproductive system of the tropical agamid lizard, Leiolepis ocellata.
Results
Male L. ocellata individuals (n = 75) collected from the territory of two provinces (Lampang and Tak) in northern Thailand exhibited annual variation in sex hormonal, histomorphometric, and histochemical characteristics of the male reproductive system. The reproductive cycle was subdivided into eight reproductive periods (early first active, first active, resting, second recrudescent, second active, regressive, quiescent, and first recrudescent), thus displaying a bimodal pattern with two actively reproductive periods. Circulating sex hormones (testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone) peaked in the first active (February) and the second active (June–July) periods. Likewise, gonadosomatic index (GSI) and histomorphometric variables of the testes and of the genital ducts (rete testis, ductuli efferentes, ductus epididymis, and ductus deferens) revealed their highest values in the first active period. Marked increase in protein and carbohydrate production was detectable in the ductuli efferentes during the active periods.
Conclusions
The male reproductive cycle of L. ocellata showed a biannual pattern of the hormonal profile, and detailed histomorphometric and histochemical characteristics of the entire reproductive system. Hence, the present study provides improved basic knowledge on the reptilian reproductive biology with comparative viewpoints to other reptiles.
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2
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Song H, Park HJ, Lee WY, Lee KH. Models and Molecular Markers of Spermatogonial Stem Cells in Vertebrates: To Find Models in Nonmammals. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:4755514. [PMID: 35685306 PMCID: PMC9174007 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4755514] [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: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the germline stem cells that are essential for the maintenance of spermatogenesis in the testis. However, it has not been sufficiently understood in amphibians, reptiles, and fish because numerous studies have been focused mainly on mammals. The aim of this review is to discuss scientific ways to elucidate SSC models of nonmammals in the context of the evolution of testicular organization since rodent SSC models. To further understand the SSC models in nonmammals, we point out common markers of an SSC pool (undifferentiated spermatogonia) in various types of testes where the kinetics of the SSC pool appears. This review includes the knowledge of (1) common molecular markers of vertebrate type A spermatogonia including putative SSC markers, (2) localization of the markers on the spermatogonia that have been reported in previous studies, (3) highlighting the most common markers in vertebrates, and (4) suggesting ways of finding SSC models in nonmammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyuk Song
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Technology, KIT, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Jung Park
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Natural Resources, Sangji University, Wonju-si 26339, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Young Lee
- Department of Animal Science, Korea National College of Agriculture and Fisheries, Jeonju-si 54874, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Hoon Lee
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Technology, KIT, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
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3
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Teves ME, Roldan ERS. Sperm bauplan and function and underlying processes of sperm formation and selection. Physiol Rev 2022; 102:7-60. [PMID: 33880962 PMCID: PMC8812575 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00009.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The spermatozoon is a highly differentiated and polarized cell, with two main structures: the head, containing a haploid nucleus and the acrosomal exocytotic granule, and the flagellum, which generates energy and propels the cell; both structures are connected by the neck. The sperm's main aim is to participate in fertilization, thus activating development. Despite this common bauplan and function, there is an enormous diversity in structure and performance of sperm cells. For example, mammalian spermatozoa may exhibit several head patterns and overall sperm lengths ranging from ∼30 to 350 µm. Mechanisms of transport in the female tract, preparation for fertilization, and recognition of and interaction with the oocyte also show considerable variation. There has been much interest in understanding the origin of this diversity, both in evolutionary terms and in relation to mechanisms underlying sperm differentiation in the testis. Here, relationships between sperm bauplan and function are examined at two levels: first, by analyzing the selective forces that drive changes in sperm structure and physiology to understand the adaptive values of this variation and impact on male reproductive success and second, by examining cellular and molecular mechanisms of sperm formation in the testis that may explain how differentiation can give rise to such a wide array of sperm forms and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eugenia Teves
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Eduardo R S Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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4
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Lima‐Santos J, Almeida‐Santos SM, Carvalho JE, Brasileiro CA. Does reproductive effort influence the metabolic rate of
Tomodon dorsatus
snakes? ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/azo.12406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jade Lima‐Santos
- Programa de Pós‐Graduação em Ecologia e Evolução Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Campus Diadema São Paulo Brazil
| | | | - José Eduardo Carvalho
- Programa de Pós‐Graduação em Ecologia e Evolução Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Campus Diadema São Paulo Brazil
- Departamento de Ecologia e Biologia Evolutiva Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Campus Diadema São Paulo Brazil
| | - Cinthia A. Brasileiro
- Programa de Pós‐Graduação em Ecologia e Evolução Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Campus Diadema São Paulo Brazil
- Departamento de Ecologia e Biologia Evolutiva Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Campus Diadema São Paulo Brazil
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Mason AK, Lee J, Perry SM, Boykin KL, Del Piero F, Lierz M, Mitchell MA. Determining the Effects of Serial Injections of Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin on Plasma Testosterone Concentrations, Testicular Dynamics, and Semen Production in Leopard Geckos ( Eublepharis macularius). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:2477. [PMID: 34573443 PMCID: PMC8470321 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Reptiles are highly susceptible to anthropogenic activities as a result of their narrow geographical ranges and habitat specialization, making them a conservation concern. Geckos represent one of the mega-diverse reptile lineages under pressure; however, limited assisted reproductive technologies currently exist for these animals. Exogenous pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) has been found to exhibit follicle stimulating hormone-like action and has been routinely used to alter reproductive hormones of vertebrates in assisted reproductive protocols. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of serial injections of 20 IU and 50 IU PMSG on circulating testosterone concentrations, testicular dynamics, and semen production in a model species of gecko. Twenty-four captive-bred, adult, male leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) were divided into three treatment groups and administered a once-weekly injection of either PMSG or saline for a total of nine weeks. Ultrasonographic testicular measurements, electrostimulation for semen collection, and venipuncture were performed on days 0, 21, 42, and 63. Right unilateral orchidectomies and epididymectomies were performed in all animals on day 63; tissues were submitted for histopathology. PMSG treated geckos had significantly higher testicular volumes and weights, spermatozoa motility, and spermatozoa concentrations compared with controls. However, there were no significant differences in testosterone concentrations by treatment or time. Under the conditions outlined, PMSG is effective at stimulating spermatogenesis and increasing testicular size, but not effective at increasing testosterone concentrations in the leopard gecko between October-December in the Northern hemisphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra K. Mason
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA; (A.K.M.); (K.L.B.)
| | - Jeongha Lee
- Louisiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA; (J.L.); (F.D.P.)
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | | | - Kimberly L. Boykin
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA; (A.K.M.); (K.L.B.)
| | - Fabio Del Piero
- Louisiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA; (J.L.); (F.D.P.)
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Michael Lierz
- Clinic for Birds, Reptiles, Amphibians, and Fish, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany;
| | - Mark A. Mitchell
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA; (A.K.M.); (K.L.B.)
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Perry SM, Park T, Mitchell MA. Sex, drugs and rock iguanas: testicular dynamics and plasma testosterone concentrations could predict optimal semen collection times in Cyclura. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 34:417-427. [PMID: 34399882 DOI: 10.1071/rd21032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Iguanas are the most endangered family of reptiles, with 77% categorised as threatened or near threatened. Further, Cyclura is the most endangered reptile genus, with all 12 species considered threatened. Therefore, it is vital that we develop assisted reproductive technologies for Cyclura spp. to enhance their conservation efforts. The goals of this study were to collect semen, and to measure testicle size and testosterone concentrations in Grand Cayman rock iguana hybrids (Cyclura lewisi×nubila (CLN)) and rhinoceros rock iguanas (Cyclura cornuta (CC)). A prospective longitudinal study was performed in 9.0 CLN and 9.0 CC during their reproductive season in southern Florida (February-July). Serial testicle ultrasound measurements and plasma testosterone concentrations were collected monthly. Testicle measurements (length (L), width (W), height (H)) were collected and testicle volume (V) was estimated using the equation V=0.52(LW2). There were significant differences in testicle L, W, H and V for both species. Testicle size peaked for CLN and CC in April and May respectively. Plasma testosterone concentrations increased from baseline during February, March and April in CLN and in March, April and May in CC. Ultrasound testicle measurements could be used to predict when to collect semen in these seasonally monocyclic iguanas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Perry
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Skip Bertman Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA; and Mississippi Aquarium, 2100 E Beach Blvd, Gulfport, MS 39501, USA; and Corresponding author
| | - Ty Park
- Iguanaland, 33900 Bermont Road, Punta Gorda, FL 33982, USA
| | - Mark A Mitchell
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Skip Bertman Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
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Kurohmaru M, Matsui T, Igarashi H, Hattori S, Hayashi Y. Distribution of actin filaments in the seminiferous epithelium of the Habu, Trimeresurus flavoviridis. Anat Histol Embryol 2019; 48:505-507. [PMID: 31389074 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The distribution of actin filaments was examined in the seminiferous epithelium of the Habu (Trimeresurus flavoviridis; snake), by transmission electron microscopy and fluorescence histochemistry. By transmission electron microscopy, actin filaments were clearly found only at the site between Sertoli cell and spermatid without a lattice-like structure. Fluorescence histochemistry showed a weak labelling of actin filaments in the seminiferous epithelium, whereas these findings seem to be common among reptiles, they are different from those in mammals. Additionally, the bundles of actin filaments adjacent to the plasma membrane of Sertoli cells, appeared in other reptiles, were not observed in the Habu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masamichi Kurohmaru
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Imabari, Japan.,Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiyasu Matsui
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Imabari, Japan
| | - Hitomi Igarashi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Imabari, Japan
| | - Shosaku Hattori
- Amami Laboratory, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Hayashi
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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8
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Pewhom A, Srakaew N. Microanatomy of the testes and testicular ducts of the butterfly lizard,
Leiolepis ocellata
Peters, 1971 (Reptilia: Squamata: Agamidae) during the active reproductive period. ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/azo.12270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Akkanee Pewhom
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science Kasetsart University Bangkok Thailand
| | - Nopparat Srakaew
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science Kasetsart University Bangkok Thailand
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9
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Verdú-Ricoy J, Matla T, Gregory M, Lambiris A, Jordaan A, Zhao Z, Heideman N. A comparative analysis of testicular sperm morphology in fossorial and surface-living skinks in South Africa. ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/azo.12249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joaquín Verdú-Ricoy
- Department of Zoology & Entomology; University of the Free State; Bloemfontein South Africa
| | - Tankiso Matla
- Department of Zoology & Entomology; University of the Free State; Bloemfontein South Africa
| | | | | | - Adriaan Jordaan
- Department of Zoology & Entomology; University of the Free State; Bloemfontein South Africa
| | - Zhongning Zhao
- Department of Zoology & Entomology; University of the Free State; Bloemfontein South Africa
| | - Neil Heideman
- Department of Zoology & Entomology; University of the Free State; Bloemfontein South Africa
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10
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Ahmed N, Liu Y, Chen H, Yang P, Waqas Y, Liu T, Gandahi JA, Huang Y, Wang L, Song X, Rajput IR, Wang T, Chen Q. Novel cellular evidence of lipophagy within the Sertoli cells during spermatogenesis in the turtle. Aging (Albany NY) 2017; 9:41-51. [PMID: 27750210 PMCID: PMC5310655 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process producing haploid spermatozoa, and the formation of lipid droplets (LDs) within Sertoli cells is critical to maintaining normal spermatogenesis. However, the utilization of LDs within Sertoli cells is still largely unknown. In the present study, proliferation of spermatogonial cells had begun in May, whereas the meiotic cells occurred predominately in July and majority of spermiogenic cells were observed in the seminiferous tubules in October. However, TEM and Oil Red O staining demonstrated that a larger number of LDs had accumulated within the Sertoli cells in May compared to that in October. There were several LDs attached to the isolation membrane/phagophore, suggesting that the LDs may be a source of endogenous energy for the biogenesis of autophagosomes. The LDs were enclosed within the autophagosomes in May, whereas, autophagosomes and mitochondria were directly attached with large LDs within the Sertoli cells in October. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry results demonstrated the stronger localization of LC3 on the Sertoli cells in May than in October. This study is the first to provide clear evidence of the two different modes of lipophagy for lipid consumption within Sertoli cells, which is a key aspect of Sertoli germ cell communication during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisar Ahmed
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China.,Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, LUAWMS, Uthal 90150, Pakistan
| | - Yi Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Ping Yang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Yasir Waqas
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Tengfei Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Jameel Ahmed Gandahi
- Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Sindh Agriculture University, Tando Jam 70060, Pakistan
| | - Yufei Huang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Xuejing Song
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | | | - Taozhi Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
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11
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QUINTELA FERNANDOM, MARQUES WILIAMC, LOEBMANN DANIEL. Reproductive biology of the Green Ground Snake Erythrolamprus poecilogyrus sublineatus (Serpentes: Dipsadidae) in Subtropical Brazil. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 89:2189-2197. [DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765201720160805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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12
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Rheubert J, Messak JA, Siegel DS, Gribbins KM, Trauth SE, Sever DM. Inter- and intraspecific variation in sperm morphology of Sceloporus consobrinus and Sceloporus undulatus (Squamata: Phrynosomatidae). Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/blw043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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13
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Ultrastructural analysis of the mature spermatozoon in the copperhead, Agkistrodon contortrix (Linnaeus, 1766). ZOOMORPHOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s00435-017-0353-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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14
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Gribbins KM, Freeborn LR, Sever DM. Ultrastructure of spermatid development within the testis of the Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake, Pelamis platurus (Squamata: Elapidae). SPERMATOGENESIS 2017; 6:e1261666. [PMID: 28144497 DOI: 10.1080/21565562.2016.1261666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Revised: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about spermatid development during spermiogenesis in snakes, as there is only one complete study in ophidians, which details the spermatid ultrastructure within the viperid, Agkistrodon piscivorus. Thus, the following study will add to our understanding of the ontogenic steps of spermiogenesis in snakes by examining spermatid maturation in the elapid, Pelamis platurus, which were collected in Costa Rica in 2009. The spermatids of P. platurus share many similar ultrastructural characteristics to that described for other squamates during spermiogenesis. Three notable differences between the spermatids of P. platurus and those of other snakes is a round and shorter epinuclear lucent zone, enlarged caudal nuclear shoulders, and more prominent 3 and 8 peripheral fibers in the principal and endpieces. Also, the midpiece is much longer in P. platurus and is similar to that reported for all snakes studied to date. Other features of chromatin condensation and morphology of the acrosome complex are similar to what has been observed in A. piscivorus and other squamates. Though the spermatids in P. platurus appear to be quite similar to other snakes and lizards studied to date, some differences in subcellular details are still observed. Analysis of developing spermatids in P. platurus and other snakes could reveals morphologically conserved traits between different species along with subtle changes that could help determine phylogenetic relationships once a suitable number of species have been examined for ophidians and other squamates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Gribbins
- Department of Biology, University of Indianapolis , Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Layla R Freeborn
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - David M Sever
- Department of Biological Sciences, Southeastern Louisiana University , Hammond, LA, USA
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15
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Rheubert JL, Sever DM, Siegel DS, Gribbins KM. Ultrastructural analysis of spermiogenesis in the Eastern Fence Lizard, Sceloporus undulatus (Squamata: Phrynosomatidae). Micron 2016; 81:16-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2015] [Revised: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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16
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Gribbins K. Histological analysis of spermatogenesis within non-mammalian vertebrates. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 4:e1011565. [PMID: 26413403 PMCID: PMC4581066 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2015.1011565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Gribbins
- Department of Biology; University of Indianapolis; Indianapolis, IN USA
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17
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Lancaster K, Trauth SE, Gribbins KM. Testicular histology and germ cell cytology during spermatogenesis in the Mississippi map turtle, Graptemys pseudogeographica kohnii, from Northeast Arkansas. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 4:e992654. [PMID: 26413408 PMCID: PMC4581058 DOI: 10.4161/21565562.2014.992654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Revised: 11/19/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The testicular histology and cytology of spermatogenesis in Graptemys pseudogeographica kohnii were examined using specimens collected between July 1996 and May 2004 from counties in northeastern Arkansas. A histological examination of the testes and germ cell cytology indicates a postnuptial testicular cycle of spermatogenesis and a major fall spermiation event. The majority of the germ cell populations in May and June specimens are represented by resting spermatogonia, type A spermatogonia, type B spermatogonia, pre-leptotene spermatocytes, and numerous Sertoli cell nuclei near the basement membrane. The start of proliferation is evident as spermatogonia in metaphase are present near the basal lamina and many of these germ cells have entered meiosis in June seminiferous tubules. Major spermatogenic events occur in the June and July specimens and result in an increased height of the seminiferous epithelium and increased diameter of the seminiferous tubules. The germ cell population during this time is represented by spermatogonia (type A, B, and resting), hypertrophic cells, large populations of early primary spermatocytes, and early round spermatids. By September, the major germ cell population has progressed past meiosis with abundant round and early elongating spermatids dominating the seminiferous epithelium. October seminiferous epithelia are marked by a decreas in height and mature spermatozoa fill the luminal space. Round and elongating spermatids constitute the largest portion of the germ cell population. Following the spermiation event, the testes enter a period of quiescence that lasts till the next spermatogenic cycle, which begins in the subsequent spring. Based on the cytological development of the seminiferous tubules revealed by our study, Graptemys pseudogeographica kohnii demonstrates a temporal germ cell development strategy similar to other temperate reptiles. A single major generation of germ cells progresses through spermatogenesis each year resulting in a single spermiation event with sperm stored within the epididymis until the next spring mating season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey Lancaster
- Department of Biological Sciences; Arkansas State University; Jonesboro, AR USA
| | - Stanley E Trauth
- Department of Biological Sciences; Arkansas State University; Jonesboro, AR USA
| | - Kevin M Gribbins
- Department of Biology; University of Indianapolis; Indianapolis, IN USA
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18
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The germ cell development strategy and seasonal changes in spermatogenesis and Leydig cell morphologies of the spiny lizard Sceloporus mucronatus (Squamata: Phrynosomatidae). ZOOMORPHOLOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s00435-013-0210-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Gribbins KM, Matchett CL, DelBello KA, Rheubert J, Villagrán-SantaCruz M, Granados-González G, Hernández-Gallegos O. The ultrastructure of spermatid development during spermiogenesis within the rosebelly lizard, Sceloporus variabilis (Reptilia, Squamata, Phrynosomatidae). J Morphol 2013; 275:258-68. [PMID: 24186265 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2013] [Revised: 09/06/2013] [Accepted: 09/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Several recent studies have mapped out the characters of spermiogenesis within several species of squamates. Many of these data have shown both conserved and possibly apomorphic morphological traits that could be important in future phylogenetic analysis within Reptilia. There, however, has not been a recent study that compares spermiogenesis and its similarities or differences between two species of reptile that reside in the same genus. Thus, the present analysis details the changes to spermiogenesis in Sceloporus variabilis and then compares spermatid morphologies to that of Sceloporus bicanthalis. Many of the morphological changes that the spermatids undergo in these two species are similar or conserved, which is similar to what has been reported in other squamates. There are six main character differences that can be observed during the development of the spermatids between these two sceloporid lizards. They include the presence (S. variabilis) or absence (S. bicanthalis) of a mitochondrial/endoplasmic reticulum complex near the Golgi apparatus during acrosome development, a shallow (S. variabilis) or deep (S. bicanthalis) nuclear indentation that accommodates the acrosomal vesicle, filamentous (S. variabilis) or granular (S. bicanthalis) chromatin condensation, no spiraling (S. variabilis) or spiraling (S. bicanthalis) of chromatin during condensation, absence (S. variabilis) or presence (S. bicanthalis) of the longitudinal manchette microtubules, and the lack of (S. variabilis) or presence (S. bicanthalis) of nuclear lacunae. This is the first study that compares spermiogenic ultrastructural characters between species within the same genus. The significance of the six character differences between two distantly related species within Sceloporus is still unknown, but these data do suggest that spermiogenesis might be a good model to study the hypothesis that spermatid ontogeny is species specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Gribbins
- Department of Biology, Wittenberg University, Springfield, Ohio, 45501
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Hu JR, Liu M, Wang DH, Hu YJ, Tan FQ, Yang WX. Molecular characterization and expression analysis of a KIFC1-like kinesin gene in the testis of Eumeces chinensis. Mol Biol Rep 2013; 40:6645-6655. [PMID: 24078165 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-013-2779-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2013] [Accepted: 09/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The member of the kinesin-14 subfamily, KIFC1, is a carboxyl-terminal motor protein that plays an important role in the elongation of nucleus and acrosome biogenesis during the spermiogenesis of mammals. Here, we had cloned and sequenced the cDNA of a mammalian KIFC1 homologue (termed ec-KIFC1) from the total RNA of the testis of the reptile Eumeces chinensis. The full-length sequence was 2,339 bp that contained a 216 bp 5'-untranslated region (5'UTR), a 194 bp 3'-untranslated region (3'UTR) and a 1,929 bp open reading frame that encoded a special protein of 643 amino acids (aa). The calculated molecular weight of the putative ec-KIFC1 was 71 kDa and its estimated isoelectric point was 9.47. The putative ec-KIFC1 protein owns a tail domain from 1 to 116 aa, a stalk domain from 117 to 291 aa and a conserved carboxyl motor domain from 292 to 642 aa. Protein alignment demonstrated that ec-KIFC1 had 45.6, 42.8, 44.6, 36.9, 43.7, 46.4, 45.1, 55.6 and 49.8 % identity with its homologues in Mus musculus, Salmo salar, Danio rerio, Eriocheir sinensis, Rattus norvegicus, Homo sapiens, Bos taurus, Gallus gallus and Xenopus laevis, respectively. Tissue expression analysis showed the presence of ovary, heart, liver, intestine, oviduct, testis and muscle. The phylogenetic tree revealed that ec-KIFC1 was more closely related to vertebrate KIFC1 than to invertebrate KIFC1. In situ hybridization showed that the ec-KIFC1 mRNA was localized in the periphery of the nuclear membrane and the center of the nucleus in early spermatids. In mid spermatids, the ec-KIFC1 had abundant expression in the center of nucleus, and was expressed in the tail and the anterior part of spermatids. In the late spermatid, the nucleus gradually became elongated, and the ec-KIFC1 mRNA signal was still centralized in the nucleus. In mature spermatids, the signal of the ec-KIFC1 gradually became weak, and was mainly located at the tail of spermatids. Therefore, the ec-KIFC1 probably plays a critical role in the spermatogenesis of E. chinensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Rao Hu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, People's Republic of China
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Gribbins KM, Rheubert JL, Touzinsky K, Hanover J, Matchett CL, Granados-González G, Hernández-Gallegos O. Spermiogenesis in the imbricate alligator lizard, Barisia imbricata (Reptilia, Squamata, Anguidae). J Morphol 2013; 274:603-14. [PMID: 23400942 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 11/21/2012] [Accepted: 12/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Although the events of spermiogenesis are commonly studied in amniotes, the amount of research available for Squamata is lacking. Many studies have described the morphological characteristics of mature spermatozoa in squamates, but few detail the ultrastructural changes that occur during spermiogenesis. This study's purpose is to gain a better understanding of the subcellular events of spermatid development within the Imbricate Alligator Lizard, Barisia imbricata. The morphological data presented here represent the first complete ultrastructural study of spermiogenesis within the family Anguidae. Samples of testes from four specimens collected on the northwest side of the Nevado de Toluca, México, were prepared using standard techniques for transmission electron microscopy. Many of the ultrastructural changes occurring during spermiogenesis within B. imbricata are similar to that of other squamates (i.e., early acrosome formation, chromatin condensation, flagella formation, annulus present, and a prominent manchette). However, there are a few unique characteristics within B. imbricata spermatids that to date have not been described during spermiogenesis in other squamates. For example, penetration of the acrosomal granule into the subacrosomal space to form the basal plate of the perforatorium during round spermatid development, the clover-shaped morphology of the developing nuclear fossa of the flagellum, and the bulbous shape to the perforatorium are all unique to the Imbricate Alligator Lizard. These anatomical character differences may be valuable nontraditional data that along with more traditional matrices (such as DNA sequences and gross morphological data) may help elucidate phylogenetic relationships, which are historically considered controversial within Squamata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Gribbins
- Department of Biology, Wittenberg University, Springfield, Ohio 45501, USA.
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Rojas CA, Barros VA, Almeida-Santos SM. The reproductive cycle of the male sleep snakeSibynomorphus mikanii(Schlegel, 1837) from southeastern brazil. J Morphol 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Gribbins KM. Reptilian spermatogenesis: A histological and ultrastructural perspective. SPERMATOGENESIS 2011; 1:250-269. [PMID: 22319673 PMCID: PMC3271667 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.1.3.18092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2011] [Revised: 09/09/2011] [Accepted: 09/10/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Until recently, the histology and ultrastructural events of spermatogenesis in reptiles were relatively unknown. Most of the available morphological information focuses on specific stages of spermatogenesis, spermiogenesis, and/or of the mature spermatozoa. No study to date has provided complete ultrastructural information on the early events of spermatogenesis, proliferation and meiosis in class Reptilia. Furthermore, no comprehensive data set exists that describes the ultrastructure of the entire ontogenic progression of germ cells through the phases of reptilian spermatogenesis (mitosis, meiosis and spermiogenesis). The purpose of this review is to provide an ultrastructural and histological atlas of spermatogenesis in reptiles. The morphological details provided here are the first of their kind and can hopefully provide histological information on spermatogenesis that can be compared to that already known for anamniotes (fish and amphibians), birds and mammals. The data supplied in this review will provide a basic model that can be utilized for the study of sperm development in other reptiles. The use of such an atlas will hopefully stimulate more interest in collecting histological and ultrastructural data sets on spermatogenesis that may play important roles in future nontraditional phylogenetic analyses and histopathological studies in reptiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Gribbins
- Department of Biology; Wittenberg University; Springfield, OH USA
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