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Cannarella R, Crafa A, Curto R, Condorelli RA, La Vignera S, Calogero AE. Obesity and male fertility disorders. Mol Aspects Med 2024; 97:101273. [PMID: 38593513 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2024.101273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Often associated with obesity, male infertility represents a widespread condition that challenges the wellbeing of the couple. In this article, we provide a comprehensive and critical analysis of studies exploring the association between obesity and male reproductive function, to evaluate the frequency of this association, and establish the effects of increased body weight on conventional and biofunctional sperm parameters and infertility. In an attempt to find possible molecular markers of infertility in obese male patients, the numerous mechanisms responsible for infertility in overweight/obese patients are reviewed in depth. These include obesity-related functional hypogonadism, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, chronic inflammation, adipokines, irisin, gut hormones, gut microbiome, and sperm transcriptome. According to meta-analytic evidence, excessive body weight negatively influences male reproductive health. This can occurr through a broad array of molecular mechanisms. Some of these are not yet fully understood and need to be further elucidated in the future. A better understanding of the effects of metabolic disorders on spermatogenesis and sperm fertilizing capacity is very useful for identifying new diagnostic markers and designing therapeutic strategies for better clinical management of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Andrea Crafa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Roberto Curto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosita A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Amarilla MS, Glienke L, Munduruca Pires T, Sobarzo CM, Oxilia HG, Fulco MF, Rodríguez Peña M, Maio MB, Ferrer Viñals D, Lustig L, Jacobo PV, Theas MS. Impaired Spermatogenesis in Infertile Patients with Orchitis and Experimental Autoimmune Orchitis in Rats. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:278. [PMID: 38666890 PMCID: PMC11048156 DOI: 10.3390/biology13040278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is a well-established rodent model of organ-specific autoimmunity associated with infertility in which the testis immunohistopathology has been extensively studied. In contrast, analysis of testis biopsies from infertile patients associated with inflammation has been more limited. In this work, testicular biopsies from patients with idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia diagnosed with hypospermatogenesis (HypoSp) [mild: n = 9, and severe: n = 11], with obstructive azoospermia and complete Sp (spermatogenesis) (control group, C, n = 9), and from Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS, n = 9) were analyzed for the presence of immune cells, spermatogonia and Sertoli cell (SCs) alterations, and reproductive hormones levels. These parameters were compared with those obtained in rats with EAO. The presence of increased CD45+ cells in the seminiferous tubules (STs) wall and lumen in severe HypoSp is associated with increased numbers of apoptotic meiotic germ cells and decreased populations of undifferentiated and differentiated spermatogonia. The SCs showed an immature profile with the highest expression of AMH in patients with SCOS and severe HypoSp. In SCOS patients, the amount of SCs/ST and Ki67+ SCs/ST increased and correlated with high serum FSH levels and CD45+ cells. In the severe phase of EAO, immune cell infiltration and apoptosis of meiotic germ cells increased and the number of undifferentiated and differentiated spermatogonia was lowest, as previously reported. Here, we found that orchitis leads to reduced sperm number, viability, and motility. SCs were mature (AMH-) but increased in number, with Ki67+ observed in severely damaged STs and associated with the highest levels of FSH and inflammatory cells. Our findings demonstrate that in a scenario where a chronic inflammatory process is underway, FSH levels, immune cell infiltration, and immature phenotypes of SCs are associated with severe changes in spermatogenesis, leading to azoospermia. Furthermore, AMH and Ki67 expression in SCs is a distinctive marker of severe alterations of STs in human orchitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Sofía Amarilla
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 10, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina; (L.G.); (T.M.P.); (C.M.S.); (M.B.M.); (D.F.V.); (L.L.)
| | - Leilane Glienke
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 10, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina; (L.G.); (T.M.P.); (C.M.S.); (M.B.M.); (D.F.V.); (L.L.)
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Cátedra II de Histología, Paraguay 2155, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina;
| | - Thaisy Munduruca Pires
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 10, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina; (L.G.); (T.M.P.); (C.M.S.); (M.B.M.); (D.F.V.); (L.L.)
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Cátedra II de Histología, Paraguay 2155, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina;
| | - Cristian Marcelo Sobarzo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 10, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina; (L.G.); (T.M.P.); (C.M.S.); (M.B.M.); (D.F.V.); (L.L.)
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Cátedra II de Histología, Paraguay 2155, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina;
| | - Hernán Gustavo Oxilia
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Cátedra II de Histología, Paraguay 2155, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina;
- Anatomía Patológica, Hospital General de Agudos Parmenio Piñero, Varela 1301, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1406ELA, Argentina
| | - María Florencia Fulco
- Hospital de Clínicas General San Martín, Av. Córdoba 2351 (C1120AAR), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina; (M.F.F.); (M.R.P.)
| | - Marcelo Rodríguez Peña
- Hospital de Clínicas General San Martín, Av. Córdoba 2351 (C1120AAR), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina; (M.F.F.); (M.R.P.)
| | - María Belén Maio
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 10, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina; (L.G.); (T.M.P.); (C.M.S.); (M.B.M.); (D.F.V.); (L.L.)
| | - Denisse Ferrer Viñals
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 10, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina; (L.G.); (T.M.P.); (C.M.S.); (M.B.M.); (D.F.V.); (L.L.)
| | - Livia Lustig
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 10, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina; (L.G.); (T.M.P.); (C.M.S.); (M.B.M.); (D.F.V.); (L.L.)
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Cátedra II de Histología, Paraguay 2155, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina;
| | - Patricia Verónica Jacobo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 10, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina; (L.G.); (T.M.P.); (C.M.S.); (M.B.M.); (D.F.V.); (L.L.)
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Cátedra II de Histología, Paraguay 2155, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina;
| | - María Susana Theas
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 10, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina; (L.G.); (T.M.P.); (C.M.S.); (M.B.M.); (D.F.V.); (L.L.)
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Cátedra II de Histología, Paraguay 2155, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1421ABG, Argentina;
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Tao Q, Zhang L, Zhang Y, Liu M, Wang J, Zhang Q, Wu J, Wang A, Jin Y, Tang K. The miR-34b/MEK/ERK pathway is regulated by NR5A1 and promotes differentiation in primary bovine Sertoli cells. Theriogenology 2024; 215:224-233. [PMID: 38100994 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.12.006] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells play a key role in testicular development and spermatogenesis. It has been suggested that Sertoli cells differentiate after their proliferation ceases. Our previous study showed that miR-34b inhibits proliferation by targeting MAP2K1 mediated MEK/ERK signaling pathway in bovine immature Sertoli cells. Subsequent studies have revealed that the differentiation marker androgen receptor is upregulated during this process. However, the effect of the miR-34b/MEK/ERK pathway on immature bovine Sertoli cell differentiation and the underlying molecular mechanisms are yet to be explored. In this study, we determined that the miR-34b/MEK/ERK pathway was involved in the differentiation of primary Sertoli cells (PSCs) in response to retinoic acid. Transfection of an miR-34b mimic into PSCs promoted cell differentiation, whereas transfection of an miR-34b inhibitor into PSCs delayed it. Pharmacological inhibition of MEK/ERK signaling by AZD6244 promoted PSCs differentiation. Mechanistically, miR-34b promoted PSCs differentiation by inhibiting the MEK/ERK signaling pathway. Through a combination of bioinformatics analysis, dual-luciferase reporter assay, quantitative real-time PCR, and western blotting, nuclear receptor subfamily 5 group A member 1 (NR5A1) was identified as an upstream negative transcription factor of miR-34b. Furthermore, NR5A1 knockdown promoted Sertoli cell differentiation, whereas NR5A1 overexpression had the opposite effect. Together, this study revealed a new NR5A1/miR-34b/MEK/ERK axis that plays a significant role in Sertoli cell differentiation and provides a theoretical and experimental framework for further clarifying the regulation of cell differentiation in bovine PSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qibing Tao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Linlin Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Mingming Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jie Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiancheng Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Aihua Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yaping Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Keqiong Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
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Hüneke H, Langeheine M, Rode K, Jung K, Pilatz A, Fietz D, Kliesch S, Brehm R. Effects of a Sertoli cell-specific knockout of Connexin43 on maturation and proliferation of postnatal Sertoli cells. Differentiation 2023; 134:31-51. [PMID: 37839230 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Adult male Sertoli cell-specific Connexin43 knockout mice (SCCx43KO) exhibit higher Sertoli cell (SC) numbers per seminiferous tubule compared to their wild type (WT) littermates. Thus, deletion of this testicular gap junction protein seems to affect the proliferative potential and differentiation of "younger" SC. Although SC have so far mostly been characterised as postmitotic cells that cease to divide and become an adult, terminally differentiated cell population at around puberty, there is rising evidence that there exist exceptions from this for a very long time accepted paradigm. Aim of this study was to investigate postnatal SC development and to figure out underlying causes for observed higher SC numbers in adult KO mice. Therefore, the amount of SC mitotic figures was compared, resulting in slightly more and prolonged detection of SC mitotic figures in KO mice compared to WT. SC counting per tubular cross section revealed significantly different time curves, and comparing proliferation rates using Bromodesoxyuridine and Sox9 showed higher proliferation rates in 8-day old KO mice. SC proliferation was further investigated by Ki67 immunohistochemistry. SC in KO mice displayed a delayed initiation of cell-cycle-inhibitor p27Kip1 synthesis and prolonged synthesis of the phosphorylated tumour suppressor pRb and proliferation marker Ki67. Thus, the higher SC numbers in adult male SCCx43KO mice may arise due to two different reasons: Firstly, in prepubertal KO mice, the proliferation rate of SC was higher. Secondly, there were differences in their ability to cease proliferation as shown by the delayed initiation of p27Kip1 synthesis and the prolonged production of phosphorylated pRb and Ki67. Immunohistochemical results indicating a prolonged period of SC proliferation in SCCx43KO were confirmed by detection of proliferating SC in 17-days-old KO mice. In conclusion, deletion of the testicular gap junction protein Cx43 might prevent normal SC maturation and might even alter also the proliferation potential of adult SC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Hüneke
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marion Langeheine
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kristina Rode
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Klaus Jung
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Daniela Fietz
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Ralph Brehm
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany.
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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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Neonatal corticosterone administration increases p27-positive Sertoli cell number and decreases Sertoli cell number in the testes of mice at prepuberty. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19402. [PMID: 36371473 PMCID: PMC9653474 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23695-8] [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: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cortisol and corticosterone (CORT) are steroid, antistress hormones and one of the glucocorticoids in humans and animals, respectively. This study evaluated the effects of CORT administration on the male reproductive system in early life stages. CORT was subcutaneously injected at 0.36 (low-), 3.6 (middle-), and 36 (high-dosed) mg/kg body weight from postnatal day (PND) 1 to 10 in ICR mice. We observed a dose-dependent increase in serum CORT levels on PND 10, and serum testosterone levels were significantly increased only in high-dosed-CORT mice. Triiodothyronine levels were significantly higher in the low-dosed mice but lower in the middle- and high-dosed mice. However, testicular weights did not change significantly among the mice. Sertoli cell numbers were significantly reduced in low- and middle-dosed mice, whereas p27-positive Sertoli cell numbers increased in low- and middle-dosed mice. On PND 16, significant increases in testicular and relative testicular weights were observed in all-dosed-CORT mice. On PND 70, a significant decrease in testicular weight, Sertoli cell number, and spermatozoa count was observed. These results revealed that increased serum CORT levels in early life stages could induce p27 expression in Sertoli cells and terminate Sertoli cell proliferation, leading to decreased Sertoli cell number in mouse testes.
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Mulligan MK, Kleiman JE, Caldemeyer AC, Harding JCS, Pasternak JA. Porcine reproductive and respiratory virus 2 infection of the fetus results in multi-organ cell cycle suppression. Vet Res 2022; 53:13. [PMID: 35189966 PMCID: PMC8860275 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-022-01030-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractPorcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) infection during late gestation negatively affects fetal development. The objective of this study was to identify the fetal organs most severely impacted following infection, and evaluate the relationship between this response and fetal phenotypes. RNA was extracted from fetal heart, liver, lung, thymus, kidney, spleen, and loin muscle, collected following late gestation viral challenge of pregnant gilts. Initially, gene expression for three cell cycle promoters (CDK1, CDK2, CDK4) and one inhibitor (CDKN1A) were evaluated in biologically extreme phenotypic subsets including gestational age-matched controls (CON), uninfected (UNIF), high-viral load viable (HV-VIA), and high-viral load meconium-stained (HV-MEC) fetuses. There were no differences between CON and UNIF groups for any gene, indicating no impact of maternal infection alone. Relative to CON, high-viral load (HV-VIA, HV-MEC) fetuses showed significant downregulation of at least one CDK gene in all tissues except liver, while CDKN1A was upregulated in all tissues except muscle, with the heart and kidney most severely impacted. Subsequent evaluation of additional genes known to be upregulated following activation of P53 or TGFb/SMAD signaling cascades indicated neither pathway was responsible for the observed increase in CDKN1A. Finally, analysis of heart and kidney from a larger unselected population of infected fetuses from the same animal study showed that serum thyroxin and viral load were highly correlated with the expression of CDKN1A in both tissues. Collectively these results demonstrate the widespread suppression in cell division across all tissues in PRRSV infected fetuses and indicate a non-canonical regulatory mechanism.
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Martínez-Hernández J, Seco-Rovira V, Beltrán-Frutos E, Ferrer C, Serrano-Sánchez MI, Pastor LM. Proliferation, apoptosis, and number of Sertoli cells in the Syrian hamster during recrudescence after exposure to short photoperiod†‡. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:588-597. [PMID: 31621831 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz198] [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: 12/27/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sertoli cell (Sc) has been described as a quiescent cell once the animal has reached sexual maturity. Syrian hamster is an animal that displays testicular regression due to short photoperiod, during which process germ cells and Sc are removed through apoptosis. The aim of this work was to investigate histochemically whether the spontaneous testicular recrudescence processes after exposure to a short photoperiod lead to an increase in Sc proliferative activity in order to restore the normal population. Three spontaneous recrudescence groups were established: initial (IR), advanced (AR), and total (TR) recrudescence, which were compared with animal undergoing the regression process (mild: MRg, strong: SRg, and total: TRg) and animals in long photoperiod (Controls). Histological sections were submitted to histochemical techniques for detecting apoptotic and proliferative Sc with bright-field and fluorescence microscopy. For each group, the proliferative Sc index (PScI) and apoptotic Sc index (AScI), and the total number of Sc were obtained. The results revealed the existence of Vimentin+/TUNEL+ as well as Vimentin+/PCNA+ cells. The PScI was significantly higher in TRg and IR than in the other groups. The AScI was only significantly higher in MRg and SRg with respect to the other groups. The total number of Sc increased among TRg, IR, and AR, reaching values similar to those of the Controls. In conclusion, the increase in Sc proliferation from final regression and recrudescence, accompanied by a similar rate of apoptosis to the Control group, is the cause of the restoration of the Sc population during spontaneous recrudescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Martínez-Hernández
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Medical School, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Vicente Seco-Rovira
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Medical School, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Ester Beltrán-Frutos
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Medical School, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Concepción Ferrer
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Medical School, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - María Isabel Serrano-Sánchez
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Medical School, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel Pastor
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Medical School, IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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Shah R, Patil V, Sarathi V, Lila AR, Zacharin M, Krishnappa B, Sehemby M, Jaiswal SK, Jadhav PL, Ramteke-Jadhav S, Shah N, Bandgar T. Prior testosterone replacement therapy may impact spermatogenic response to combined gonadotropin therapy in severe congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Pituitary 2021; 24:326-333. [PMID: 33226541 DOI: 10.1007/s11102-020-01111-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the effect of prior testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) on the spermatogenic response to combined gonadotropin therapy (CGT) in severe and partial phenotype congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) patients. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Tertiary care center. PATIENTS Patients of CHH without (n = 17) and with prior TRT (n = 18) were subdivided into severe and partial groups, based on mean testicular volume ≤ 3 cc and > 3 cc respectively. INTERVENTION Participants were treated with hMG at a dose of 75-150 U 3/week and gradually escalating doses of hCG until maximum dose (2000 U 3/week or 5000 U 2/week) or serum total testosterone of ≥ 3.5 ng/ml was reached. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Final mean TV, trough serum testosterone (T), sperm concentration RESULTS: Thirty-five patients (20 severe, baseline mean TV of 3.6 ± 2.7 ml) were started on CGT at 24.8 ± 6.1 years. The median duration of prior TRT was 38 (IQR 10-63.75) months in the exposed group. After 33 ± 12 months, final mean TV was 8.9 ± 5.5 ml, 86% achieved serum testosterone > 3.5 ng/ml and 70% achieved spermatogenesis [median 5 (0-12.6) million/ml]. Patients without prior TRT had significantly higher peak sperm count than those with prior- TRT (median 9 vs 0.05 million/ml, p = 0.004). This effect of prior TRT was more pronounced in severe phenotype patients (median 7 vs 0 million/ml, p = 0.01). CONCLUSION Prior-TRT may interfere with spermatogenic response to CGT in CHH patients, especially in those with a severe phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravikumar Shah
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Virendra Patil
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Vijaya Sarathi
- Department of Endocrinology, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Anurag R Lila
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India.
| | - Margaret Zacharin
- Department of Endocrinology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Brijesh Krishnappa
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Manjeetkaur Sehemby
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Sanjeet Kumar Jaiswal
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Pratap L Jadhav
- Department of Preventive & Social Medicine, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Swati Ramteke-Jadhav
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Nalini Shah
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Tushar Bandgar
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
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Rindone GM, Gorga A, Pellizzari EH, Camberos MDC, Galardo MN, Da Ros VG, Buffone MG, Meroni SB, Riera MF. Postnatal metformin treatment alters rat Sertoli cell proliferation and daily sperm production. Andrology 2021; 9:965-976. [PMID: 33305512 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12957] [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: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The direct correlation between Sertoli cell number and sperm production capacity highlights the importance of deciphering external factors that modify Sertoli cell proliferation. A growing body of evidence in vitro suggests that metformin, the main pharmacological agent for type 2 diabetes treatment in children, exerts anti-proliferative effects on Sertoli cells. OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of metformin administration during postnatal period on Sertoli cell proliferation and on cell cycle regulators expression and to analyze the impact of this treatment on the sperm production capacity in adulthood. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sprague Dawley rat pups were randomly divided into two groups: MET (receiving daily 200 mg/kg metformin, from Pnd3 to Pnd7 inclusive) and control (receiving vehicle). BrdU incorporation was measured to assess proliferation. Gene expression analyses were performed in Sertoli cells isolated from animals of both groups. Daily sperm production and sperm parameters were measured in adult male rats (Pnd90) that received neonatal treatment. RESULTS MET group exhibited a significant decrease in BrdU incorporation in Sertoli cells. Concordantly, MET group showed a reduction in cyclin D1 and E2 expression and an increase in p21 expression in Sertoli cells. In addition, metformin-treated animals displayed lower values of daily sperm production on Pnd90. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION These results suggest that metformin treatment may lead to a decrease in Sertoli cell proliferation, a concomitant altered expression of cell cycle regulators and ultimately, a reduction in daily sperm production in adult animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Marcelo Rindone
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Agostina Gorga
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eliana Herminia Pellizzari
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Del Carmen Camberos
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Noel Galardo
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Silvina Beatriz Meroni
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Fernanda Riera
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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11
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Miyaso H, Takano K, Nagahori K, Kawata S, Li ZL, Kuramasu M, Wu X, Ogawa Y, Itoh M. Neonatal maternal separation increases the number of p27-positive Sertoli cells in prepuberty. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 102:56-66. [PMID: 33845160 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.03.008] [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: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Neonatal maternal separation (NMS) is an experimental model for early life stress, which affects the growth and development of various organs, resulting in adverse health effects in humans and animals. In our previous study, we demonstrated that NMS [(0.5-, 1-, 2-h/day NMS, from postnatal day (PND) 1-10] induced morphological changes to the male reproductive system, including decreased Sertoli cell numbers in mouse testes at PND 70. To clarify the mechanism by which NMS decreases Sertoli cell numbers, we evaluated the effects of NMS on mouse testes at PNDs 10 and 16. At PND 10, the Sertoli cell number was not significantly different among experimental groups; however, it decreased in 0.5- and 2-h/day NMS mice at PND 16. The termination of Sertoli cell proliferation in prepuberty can be induced by p27, a cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor. At PND 10, we observed an increase in the number of p27-positive Sertoli cells in 2-h/day NMS mice. The seminiferous tubule diameters decreased significantly in 1- and 2-h/day NMS mice, and the relative interstitial area increased in 2-h/day NMS mice. Serum corticosterone level significantly increased, and serum testosterone level significantly decreased in the 2-h/day NMS mice. At PND 16, the tubule diameters and height of seminiferous epithelium were significantly higher in 0.5- and 2-h/day NMS mice. Our results suggest that NMS disturbs serum corticosterone and testosterone levels and increases the number of p27-positive Sertoli cells at PND 10, resulting in a decrease in the number of Sertoli cells at PND 16.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidenobu Miyaso
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan.
| | - Kaiya Takano
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
| | - Kenta Nagahori
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
| | - Shinichi Kawata
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
| | - Zhong-Lian Li
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
| | - Miyuki Kuramasu
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
| | - Xi Wu
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
| | - Yuki Ogawa
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
| | - Masahiro Itoh
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
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Shah W, Khan R, Shah B, Khan A, Dil S, Liu W, Wen J, Jiang X. The Molecular Mechanism of Sex Hormones on Sertoli Cell Development and Proliferation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:648141. [PMID: 34367061 PMCID: PMC8344352 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.648141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sustaining and maintaining the intricate process of spermatogenesis is liable upon hormones and growth factors acting through endocrine and paracrine pathways. The Sertoli cells (SCs) are the major somatic cells present in the seminiferous tubules and are considered to be the main regulators of spermatogenesis. As each Sertoli cell supports a specific number of germ cells, thus, the final number of Sertoli cells determines the sperm production capacity. Similarly, sex hormones are also major regulators of spermatogenesis and they can determine the proliferation of Sertoli cells. In the present review, we have critically and comprehensively discussed the role of sex hormones and some other factors that are involved in Sertoli cell proliferation, differentiation and maturation. Furthermore, we have also presented a model of Sertoli cell development based upon the recent advancement in the field of reproduction. Hence, our review article provides a general overview regarding the sex hormonal pathways governing Sertoli cell proliferation and development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ranjha Khan
- *Correspondence: Xiaohua Jiang, ; Ranjha Khan, ; Jie Wen,
| | | | | | | | | | - Jie Wen
- *Correspondence: Xiaohua Jiang, ; Ranjha Khan, ; Jie Wen,
| | - Xiaohua Jiang
- *Correspondence: Xiaohua Jiang, ; Ranjha Khan, ; Jie Wen,
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The role of estrogen receptors in rat Sertoli cells at different stages of development. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05363. [PMID: 33163677 PMCID: PMC7609458 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of estrogen receptors (ESR1 and ESR2) on the expression of the proteins involved with proliferation (CCND1) and differentiation (CDKN1B and CTNNB) of Sertoli cells from rat in different stages of development. ESR1-selective agonist PPT, but not ESR2-selective agonist DPN, increased CCND1 expression in Sertoli cells from 5- and 15-day old rats. PPT did not have any effect on CCND1 expression in Sertoli cells from 20- and 30-day-old rats. DPN, but not PPT, increased CDKN1B expression in Sertoli cells from 15-, 20-, 30-day-old rats. DPN did not have any effect on Sertoli cells from 5-day-old rats. 17β-estradiol (E2) and PPT enhanced the [Methyl-3H] thymidine incorporation in Sertoli cells from 15-day-old rats, whereas the treatment did not have any effect in 20-day-old rats. E2 and DPN, but not PPT, increased non-phosphorylated CTNNB expression in Sertoli cells from 20-day-old rats. This upregulation was blocked by ESR2-selective antagonist PHTPP. The activation of ESR1 and ESR2, respectively, plays a role in the proliferation and differentiation of Sertoli cells in a critical period of testicular development. Furthermore, in Sertoli cells from 20-day-old rats, upregulation of non-phosphorylated CTNNB by E2/ESR2, via c-SRC/ERK1/2 and PI3K/AKT, may play a role in the interaction between Sertoli cells and/or in cell-germ cell adhesion and/or in the stabilization and accumulation of CTNNB in the cytosol. CTNNB could be translocated to the nucleus and modulate the transcriptional activity of specific target genes. The present study reinforces the important role of estrogen in normal testis development.
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E4 Transcription Factor 1 (E4F1) Regulates Sertoli Cell Proliferation and Fertility in Mice. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10091691. [PMID: 32962114 PMCID: PMC7552733 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Male fertility relies on the generation of functional sperm in seminiferous tubules of the testis. In mammals, Sertoli cells are the only somatic cells that directly interact with spermatogenic cells. Compelling evidences suggest that the number of Sertoli cells determines testis size and sperm output, however, molecular mechanisms regulating Sertoli cell proliferation and maturation are not well-understood. Using a Sertoli cell specific loss-of-function approach, here we showed that transcription factor E4F1 played an important role in murine Sertoli cell proliferation. Compared with their littermate control, E4f1 conditional knockout male mice sired a significantly low number of pups. E4f1 deletion resulted in reduced Sertoli cell number and testis size. Further analyses revealed that E4f1 deletion affected Sertoli cell proliferation in the neonatal testis and caused an increase in apoptosis of spermatogenic cells without affecting normal development of spermatogonia, meiotic and post-meiotic germ cells. These findings have shed new light on molecular controlling of spermatogenesis in mice and a similar mechanism likely exists in other animals. Abstract In the mammalian testes, Sertoli cells are the only somatic cells in the seminiferous tubules that provide structural, nutritional and regulatory support for developing spermatogenic cells. Sertoli cells only proliferate during the fetal and neonatal periods and enter a quiescent state after puberty. Functional evidences suggest that the size of Sertoli cell population determines sperm production and fertility. However, factors that direct Sertoli cell proliferation and maturation are not fully understood. Transcription factor E4F1 is a multifunctional protein that serves essential roles in cell fate decisions and because it interacts with pRB, a master regulator of Sertoli cell function, we hypothesized that E4F1 may have a functional role in Sertoli cells. E4f1 mRNA was present in murine testis and immunohistochemical staining confirmed that E4F1 was enriched in mature Sertoli cells. We generated a conditional knockout mouse model using Amh-cre and E4f1flox/flox lines to study E4F1 fucntion in Sertoli cells and the results showed that E4f1 deletion caused a significant reduction in testis size and fertility. Further analyses revealed that meiosis progression and spermiogenesis were normal, however, Sertoli cell proliferation was impaired and germ cell apoptosis was elevated in the testis of E4f1 conditional knockout mice. On the basis of these findings, we concluded that E4F1 was expressed in murine Sertoli cells and served important functions in regulating Sertoli cell proliferation and fertility.
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15
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Molecular insights into hormone regulation via signaling pathways in Sertoli cells: With discussion on infertility and testicular tumor. Gene 2020; 753:144812. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.144812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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16
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da Rosa LA, Escott GM, Simonetti RB, da Silva JCD, Werlang ICR, Goldani MZ, de Fraga LS, Loss EDS. Role of non-classical effects of testosterone and epitestosterone on AMH balance and testicular development parameters. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 511:110850. [PMID: 32387527 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Testosterone (T) and its 17-α epimer, epitestosterone (EpiT), are described as having non-classical effects in addition to their classical androgen actions via the intracellular androgen receptor (iAR). The actions of these androgens play an essential role in triggering factors that shift Sertoli cells from the proliferation phase to the maturation phase. This process is essential for successful spermatogenesis and normal fertility. The aim of this work was to investigate the difference between T and EpiT effects in normal and in chemically castrated Wistar rats. We also tested the effects of these hormones when the iAR-dependent pathways were inhibited by the antiandrogen flutamide. Rats were chemically castrated on postnatal day (pnd) 5 using EDS, a cytotoxic agent that promotes apoptosis of Leydig cells, reducing androgen levels. Then, animals received replacement with T or EpiT and were treated or not with flutamide from pnd 6 to pnd 13 or 20 and were euthanized on pnd 14 and 21. Animals treated with EpiT and flutamide had lower body weight overall. Epididymis weight was also reduced in animals treated with EpiT and flutamide. Flutamide per se reduced epididymis weight at both ages (pnd 14 and 21). Testicular weight and the testicular/body weight ratio were reduced in EDS animals, and flutamide further reduced this weight in animals which received T replacement. EDS administration reduced mRNA levels of both AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) and its receptor, AMHR2, at pnd 14. In the testes of flutamide-treated animals, EpiT reduced AMH, and both T and EpiT replacement diminished AMHR2 mRNA expression also on pnd 14. EDS decreased iAR expression, and androgen replacement did not change this effect on pnd 21. In rats receiving flutamide, only those also receiving T and EpiT replacement exhibited decreased iAR expression. An increase in connexin 43 expression was observed in animals treated with EpiT without flutamide, whereas in rats treated with flutamide, both hormones were ineffective to increase connexin 43 expression reduced by EDS. Our results suggest that EpiT has an antiandrogen effect on androgen-sensitive tissues such as the epididymis. Nonetheless, the effects of T and EpiT on testicular development parameters are similar. Both hormones may act through their iAR-independent non-classical pathway, regulating AMH and AMHR2, as well as iAR expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Abreu da Rosa
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Laboratório de Pediatria Translacional/Núcleo de Estudos em Saúde da Criança e do Adolescente (NESCA)/Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Gustavo Monteiro Escott
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas: Endocrinologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Rajla Bressan Simonetti
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Jessica Caroline Dias da Silva
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Isabel Cristina Ribas Werlang
- Laboratório de Pediatria Translacional/Núcleo de Estudos em Saúde da Criança e do Adolescente (NESCA)/Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Marcelo Zubaran Goldani
- Laboratório de Pediatria Translacional/Núcleo de Estudos em Saúde da Criança e do Adolescente (NESCA)/Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Luciano Stürmer de Fraga
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Eloísa da Silveira Loss
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH) Action on Spermatogenesis: A Focus on Physiological and Therapeutic Roles. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9041014. [PMID: 32260182 PMCID: PMC7230878 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9041014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human reproduction is regulated by the combined action of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and the luteinizing hormone (LH) on the gonads. Although FSH is largely used in female reproduction, in particular in women attending assisted reproductive techniques to stimulate multi-follicular growth, its efficacy in men with idiopathic infertility is not clearly demonstrated. Indeed, whether FSH administration improves fertility in patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, the therapeutic benefit in men presenting alterations in sperm production despite normal FSH serum levels is still unclear. In the present review, we evaluate the potential pharmacological benefits of FSH administration in clinical practice. METHODS This is a narrative review, describing the FSH physiological role in spermatogenesis and its potential therapeutic action in men. RESULTS The FSH role on male fertility is reviewed starting from the physiological control of spermatogenesis, throughout its mechanism of action in Sertoli cells, the genetic regulation of its action on spermatogenesis, until the therapeutic options available to improve sperm production. CONCLUSION FSH administration in infertile men has potential benefits, although its action should be considered by evaluating its synergic action with testosterone, and well-controlled, powerful trials are required. Prospective studies and new compounds could be developed in the near future.
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OĞUZ A. Tiroid Hastalıkları ve Erektil Disfonksiyon. KAHRAMANMARAŞ SÜTÇÜ İMAM ÜNIVERSITESI TIP FAKÜLTESI DERGISI 2020. [DOI: 10.17517/ksutfd.579134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Wang X, Adeniran SO, Wang Z, Li X, Huang F, Ma M, Xu Z, Zheng P, Zhang G. 3, 3', 5-Triiodo-L-thyronine affects polarity proteins of bovine Sertoli cells via WT1/non-canonical Wnt signaling pathway. Theriogenology 2020; 148:8-17. [PMID: 32126395 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.02.034] [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: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
To determine the role of 3, 3', 5-triiodo-L thyroxine (T3) in the differentiation of Sertoli cells (SCs) and the factors influencing maturity via the Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1)/non-canonical Wnt signaling pathway, high purity SCs were isolated from newborn calves' testes and cultured in vitro. The SCs were stimulated with T3, and co-treated with short interference (si) RNA to knockdown endogenous WT1 and non-canonical Wnt signalling inhibitor Wnt-c59. Our results suggested that the addition of different concentrations (0, 25, 50, and 100 nM) of T3 in the culture medium changed the expression of KRT-18 (SCs immature marker) and accelerated the differentiation of SCs. T3 (100 nM) treatment induced up-regulated expression of WT1 over time (p < 0.05), while the expression of polarity proteins (Par3, Par6b, and E-cadherin) and Wnt4 were affected to varying degrees (p < 0.05). SCs were treated simultaneously with T3 + Wnt-c59 and T3 + WT1 siRNA, and the results showed that T3 could affect the expression of polarity proteins via WT1/non-canonical Wnt signaling pathway. These data put together indicate that T3 plays a dependent role in the induction of bovine SCs differentiation via WT1/non-canonical Wnt signaling pathway in vitro. This study proposes for the first time that WT1 is a major target for T3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, PR China
| | - S O Adeniran
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Ziming Wang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Fushuo Huang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Mingjun Ma
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Zhongfeng Xu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Peng Zheng
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Guixue Zhang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, PR China.
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Saewu A, Kongmanas K, Raghupathy R, Netherton J, Kadunganattil S, Linton JJ, Chaisuriyong W, Faull KF, Baker MA, Tanphaichitr N. Primary Sertoli Cell Cultures From Adult Mice Have Different Properties Compared With Those Derived From 20-Day-Old Animals. Endocrinology 2020; 161:bqz020. [PMID: 31730175 PMCID: PMC7188083 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqz020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cultures of Sertoli cells isolated from 20-day-old mice are widely used in research as substitutes for adult Sertoli cell cultures. This practice is based on the fact that Sertoli cells cease to proliferate and become mature in vivo by 16 to 20 days after birth. However, it is important to verify whether cultured Sertoli cells derived from 20-day-old mice do not proliferate ex vivo and whether they have the same properties as cultured adult Sertoli cells. Herein we described an isolation/culture method of Sertoli cells from 10-week-old adult mice with > 90% purity. Properties of these cultured adult Sertoli cells were then compared with those of cultured Sertoli cells derived from 20-day-old mice (also > 90% purity). By cell counting, bromo-2-deoxyuridine incorporation, and metaphase plate detection, we demonstrated that only adult Sertoli cells did not proliferate throughout 12 culture days. In contrast, Sertoli cells derived from 20-day-old mice still proliferated until Day 10 in culture. The morphology and profiles of intracellular lipidomics and spent medium proteomics of the 2 cultures were also different. Cultured adult Sertoli cells were larger in size and contained higher levels of triacylglycerols, cholesteryl esters, and seminolipid, and the proteins in their spent medium were mainly engaged in cellular metabolism. In contrast, proteins involved in cell division, including anti-Mullerian hormone, cell division cycle protein 42 (CDC42), and collagen isoforms, were at higher levels in Sertoli cell cultures derived from 20-day-old mice. Therefore, cultured Sertoli cells derived from 10-week-old mice, rather than those from 20-day-old animals, should be used for studies on properties of adult Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpornrad Saewu
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kessiri Kongmanas
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Riya Raghupathy
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jacob Netherton
- Department of Environmental and Life Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Suraj Kadunganattil
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - James-Jules Linton
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Kym F Faull
- Pasarow Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mark A Baker
- Department of Environmental and Life Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nongnuj Tanphaichitr
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Martinez ME, Lary CW, Karaczyn AA, Griswold MD, Hernandez A. Spermatogonial Type 3 Deiodinase Regulates Thyroid Hormone Target Genes in Developing Testicular Somatic Cells. Endocrinology 2019; 160:2929-2945. [PMID: 31621880 PMCID: PMC6853691 DOI: 10.1210/en.2019-00259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Premature overexposure to thyroid hormone causes profound effects on testis growth, spermatogenesis, and male fertility. We used genetic mouse models of type 3 deiodinase (DIO3) deficiency to determine the genetic programs affected by premature thyroid hormone action and to define the role of DIO3 in regulating thyroid hormone economy in testicular cells. Gene expression profiling in the neonatal testis of DIO3-deficient mice identified 5699 differentially expressed genes. Upregulated and downregulated genes were, respectively, involved according to DAVID analysis with cell differentiation and proliferation. They included anti-Müllerian hormone and genes involved in the formation of the blood-testis barrier, which are specific to Sertoli cells (SCs). They also included steroidogenic genes, which are specific to Leydig cells. Comparison with published data sets of genes enriched in SCs and spermatogonia, and responsive to retinoic acid (RA), identified a subset of genes that were regulated similarly by RA and thyroid hormone. This subset of genes showed an expression bias, as they were downregulated when enriched in spermatogonia and upregulated when enriched in SCs. Furthermore, using a genetic approach, we found that DIO3 is not expressed in SCs, but spermatogonia-specific inactivation of DIO3 led to impaired testis growth, reduced SC number, decreased cell proliferation and, especially during neonatal development, altered gene expression specific to somatic cells. These findings indicate that spermatogonial DIO3 protects testicular cells from untimely thyroid hormone signaling and demonstrate a mechanism of cross-talk between somatic and germ cells in the neonatal testis that involves the regulation of thyroid hormone availability and action.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Elena Martinez
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Maine Medical Center, Scarborough, Maine
| | - Christine W Lary
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Maine Medical Center, Scarborough, Maine
- Graduate School for Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, Maine
- Department of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Aldona A Karaczyn
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Maine Medical Center, Scarborough, Maine
| | - Michael D Griswold
- School for Molecular Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington
- Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington
| | - Arturo Hernandez
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Maine Medical Center, Scarborough, Maine
- Graduate School for Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, Maine
- Department of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
- Correspondence: Arturo Hernandez, PhD, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, 81 Research Drive, Scarborough, Maine 04074. E-mail:
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Vermeulen M, Del Vento F, Kanbar M, Pyr Dit Ruys S, Vertommen D, Poels J, Wyns C. Generation of Organized Porcine Testicular Organoids in Solubilized Hydrogels from Decellularized Extracellular Matrix. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E5476. [PMID: 31684200 PMCID: PMC6862040 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation of immature testicular tissue (ITT) prior to chemo/radiotherapy is now ethically accepted and is currently the only way to preserve fertility of prepubertal boys about to undergo cancer therapies. So far, three-dimensional culture of testicular cells isolated from prepubertal human testicular tissue was neither efficient nor reproducible to obtain mature spermatozoa, and ITT transplantation is not a safe option when there is a risk of cancer cell contamination of the testis. Hence, generation of testicular organoids (TOs) after cell selection is a novel strategy aimed at restoring fertility in these patients. Here, we created TOs using hydrogels developed from decellularized porcine ITT and compared cell numbers, organization and function to TOs generated in collagen only hydrogel. Organotypic culture of porcine ITT was used as a control. Rheological and mass spectrometry analyses of both hydrogels highlighted differences in terms of extracellular matrix stiffness and composition, respectively. Sertoli cells (SCs) and germ cells (GCs) assembled into seminiferous tubule-like structures delimited by a basement membrane while Leydig cells (LCs) and peritubular cells localized outside. TOs were maintained for 45 days in culture and secreted stem cell factor and testosterone demonstrating functionality of SCs and LCs, respectively. In both TOs GC numbers decreased and SC numbers increased. However, LC numbers decreased significantly in the collagen hydrogel TOs (p < 0.05) suggesting a better preservation of growth factors within TOs developed from decellularized ITT and thus a better potential to restore the reproductive capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Vermeulen
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Medical School, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Federico Del Vento
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Medical School, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Marc Kanbar
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Medical School, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Sébastien Pyr Dit Ruys
- Phosphorylation - MassProt Unit, Institut de Duve, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Didier Vertommen
- Phosphorylation - MassProt Unit, Institut de Duve, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Jonathan Poels
- Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Christine Wyns
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Medical School, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
- Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
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Bhattacharya I, Sen Sharma S, Majumdar SS. Pubertal orchestration of hormones and testis in primates. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:1505-1530. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology & BiotechnologyHNB Garhwal University, Srinagar CampusSrinagar India
- Cellular Endocrinology LabNational Institute of ImmunologyNew Delhi India
| | - Souvik Sen Sharma
- Cellular Endocrinology LabNational Institute of ImmunologyNew Delhi India
| | - Subeer S. Majumdar
- Cellular Endocrinology LabNational Institute of ImmunologyNew Delhi India
- Gene and Protein Engineering LabNational Institute of Animal BiotechnologyHyderabad India
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Bhattacharya I, Basu S, Pradhan BS, Sarkar H, Nagarajan P, Majumdar SS. Testosterone augments FSH signaling by upregulating the expression and activity of FSH-Receptor in Pubertal Primate Sertoli cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 482:70-80. [PMID: 30579957 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Revised: 12/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The synergistic actions of Testosterone (T) and FSH via testicular Sertoli cells (Sc) regulate male fertility. We have previously reported that the actions of these hormones (T and FSH) in infant monkey testes are restricted only to the expansion of Sc and spermatogonial cells. The robust differentiation of male Germ cells (Gc) occurs after pubertal maturation of testis. The present study was aimed to investigate the molecular basis of the synergy between T and FSH action in pubertal primate (Macaca mulatta) Sc. Using primary Sc culture, we here have demonstrated that T (but not FSH) downregulated AMH and Inhibin-β-B (INHBB) mRNAs in pubertal Sc. We also found that, prolonged stimulation of T in pubertal Sc significantly elevated the expression of genes involved in FSH signaling pathway like FSH-Receptor (FSHR), GNAS and RIC8B, and this was associated with a rise in cAMP production. T also augmented FSH induced expression of genes like SCF, GDNF, ABP and Transferrin (TF) in pubertal Sc. We therefore conclude that T acts in synergy with FSH signaling in pubertal Sc. Such a coordinated network of hormonal signaling in Sc may facilitate the timely onset of the first spermatogenic wave in pubertal primates and is responsible for quantitatively and qualitatively normal spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, 110067, India; Primate Research Center, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India; Department of Zoology and Biotechnology, HNB Garhwal University, Srinagar Campus, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Sayon Basu
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Bhola Shankar Pradhan
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Hironmoy Sarkar
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, 110067, India; Department of Microbiology, Raiganj University, Raiganj, West Bengal, India
| | - Perumal Nagarajan
- Primate Research Center, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
| | - Subeer S Majumdar
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, 110067, India; Primate Research Center, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India; National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
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Meroni SB, Galardo MN, Rindone G, Gorga A, Riera MF, Cigorraga SB. Molecular Mechanisms and Signaling Pathways Involved in Sertoli Cell Proliferation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:224. [PMID: 31040821 PMCID: PMC6476933 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are somatic cells present in seminiferous tubules which have essential roles in regulating spermatogenesis. Considering that each Sertoli cell is able to support a limited number of germ cells, the final number of Sertoli cells reached during the proliferative period determines sperm production capacity. Only immature Sertoli cells, which have not established the blood-testis barrier, proliferate. A number of hormonal cues regulate Sertoli cell proliferation. Among them, FSH, the insulin family of growth factors, activin, and cytokines action must be highlighted. It has been demonstrated that cAMP/PKA, ERK1/2, PI3K/Akt, and mTORC1/p70SK6 pathways are the main signal transduction pathways involved in Sertoli cell proliferation. Additionally, c-Myc and hypoxia inducible factor are transcription factors which participate in the induction by FSH of various genes of relevance in cell cycle progression. Cessation of proliferation is a pre-requisite to Sertoli cell maturation accompanied by the establishment of the blood-testis barrier. With respect to this barrier, the participation of androgens, estrogens, thyroid hormones, retinoic acid and opioids has been reported. Additionally, two central enzymes that are involved in sensing cell energy status have been associated with the suppression of Sertoli cell proliferation, namely AMPK and Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). Among the molecular mechanisms involved in the cessation of proliferation and in the maturation of Sertoli cells, it is worth mentioning the up-regulation of the cell cycle inhibitors p21Cip1, p27Kip, and p19INK4, and of the gap junction protein connexin 43. A decrease in Sertoli cell proliferation due to administration of certain therapeutic drugs and exposure to xenobiotic agents before puberty has been experimentally demonstrated. This review focuses on the hormones, locally produced factors, signal transduction pathways, and molecular mechanisms controlling Sertoli cell proliferation and maturation. The comprehension of how the final number of Sertoli cells in adulthood is established constitutes a pre-requisite to understand the underlying causes responsible for the progressive decrease in sperm production that has been observed during the last 50 years in humans.
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Gorga A, Rindone GM, Regueira M, Pellizzari EH, Camberos MC, Cigorraga SB, Riera MF, Galardo MN, Meroni SB. Effect of resveratrol on Sertoli cell proliferation. J Cell Biochem 2018; 119:10131-10142. [DOI: 10.1002/jcb.27350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Gorga
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas, “Dr César Bergadá,” CONICET‐FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - GM Rindone
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas, “Dr César Bergadá,” CONICET‐FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - M Regueira
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas, “Dr César Bergadá,” CONICET‐FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - EH Pellizzari
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas, “Dr César Bergadá,” CONICET‐FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - MC Camberos
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas, “Dr César Bergadá,” CONICET‐FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - SB Cigorraga
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas, “Dr César Bergadá,” CONICET‐FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - MF Riera
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas, “Dr César Bergadá,” CONICET‐FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - MN Galardo
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas, “Dr César Bergadá,” CONICET‐FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - SB Meroni
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas, “Dr César Bergadá,” CONICET‐FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez Buenos Aires Argentina
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Rindone GM, Gorga A, Regueira M, Pellizzari EH, Cigorraga SB, Galardo MN, Meroni SB, Riera MF. Metformin counteracts the effects of FSH on rat Sertoli cell proliferation. Reproduction 2018; 156:93-101. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Metformin (MET) is one of the most widely used anti-hyperglycemic agents for treating patients with type 2 diabetes and it has started to be used in pediatric population at ages when Sertoli cells are still proliferating. It is well known that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is the major Sertoli cell mitogen. The aim of the study is to investigate a possible effect of MET, which has been shown to have anti-proliferative properties, on FSH regulation of postnatal Sertoli cell proliferation and on the molecular mechanisms involved in this regulation. The present study was performed in eight-day-old rat Sertoli cell cultures. The results obtained show that MET in the presence of FSH increases phosphorylated acetyl-CoA carboxylase and decreases phosphorylated p70S6K levels. Moreover, we show that MET decreases FSH-stimulated Sertoli cell proliferation, and this decrease is accompanied by a reduction in FSH-stimulated Ccnd1 and Ccnd2 expression and an increase in cell cycle inhibitor p21Cip expression. Altogether, these results suggest that MET can, at least in part, counteract the effect of FSH on postnatal Sertoli cell proliferation.
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Sarkar D, Singh SK. Inhibition of testicular steroidogenesis and impaired differentiation of Sertoli cells in peripubertal mice offspring following maternal exposure to BDE-209 during lactation suppress germ cell proliferation. Toxicol Lett 2018; 290:83-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2018.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Revised: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Rondanino C, Maouche A, Dumont L, Oblette A, Rives N. Establishment, maintenance and functional integrity of the blood-testis barrier in organotypic cultures of fresh and frozen/thawed prepubertal mouse testes. Mol Hum Reprod 2018; 23:304-320. [PMID: 28333312 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can the spatio-temporal formation of an intact blood-testis barrier (BTB), which is essential for the progression of spermatogenesis, be reproduced in cultures of fresh or frozen/thawed prepubertal mouse testes? SUMMARY ANSWER Organotypic cultures allow the establishment and maintenance of major BTB components and the formation of a functional BTB in mouse testicular tissues. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In vitro maturation of prepubertal testicular tissues is a promising approach to restore fertility in adult survivors of childhood cancer. Although gametes can be successfully obtained from prepubertal mouse testes in organotypic cultures, the spermatogenic yield remains low compared to in vivo controls. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Mouse testicular tissues were frozen using controlled slow freezing (CSF) or solid surface vitrification (SSV) procedures. A total of 158 testes (fresh n = 58, CSF n = 58 or SSV n = 42) from 6 to 7 days postpartum (dpp) mice were cultured at 34°C in basal medium (α-MEM, 10% KnockOut Serum Replacement, 5 μg/ml gentamicin) at a gas-liquid interphase (under 20% O2), with or without 10-6 M retinol, for 9, 16 and 30 days. In addition, 32 testes from 6-7, 15-16, 22-23 and 36-37 dpp mice were used as in vivo controls. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The mRNA levels of BTB genes (Claudin 3, Claudin 11, Zonula occludens 1 and Connexin-43), germ cell-specific genes (Sal-like protein 4, Kit oncogene, Stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8, Synaptonemal complex protein 3, Transition protein 1 and Protamine 2), markers of Sertoli cell immaturity/maturity (anti-Mullerian hormone, androgen receptor, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1b) and the androgen-regulated gene Reproductive homeobox 5 (Rhox5) were measured by quantitative RT-PCR (RT-qPCR). The localization of BTB proteins in seminiferous tubules was studied by immunohistochemistry and spermatogenic progression was evaluated histologically. The integrity of the BTB was assessed using a biotin tracer. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Modest differences in Claudin 11 (Cldn11), Zonula occludens 1 (Zo-1), Connexin-43 (Cx43) transcript levels and in the localization of the corresponding proteins were found between in vitro cultures of fresh or frozen/thawed testes and in vivo controls (P < 0.05). However, a 32-77-fold decrease in Claudin 3 (Cldn3) mRNA levels and a lack of CLDN3 immunolabelling in 36-44% of seminiferous tubules were observed in 30-day organotypic cultures (P < 0.05). Although Sertoli cell maturation and the completion of a full spermatogenic cycle were achieved after 30 days of culture, meiotic and postmeiotic progression was altered in cultured testicular tissues (P < 0.05). Moreover, an increased BTB permeability and a decreased expression of Rhox5 were observed at the end of the culture period in comparison with in vivo controls (P < 0.05). Completion of spermatogenesis occurred in vitro in seminiferous tubules with an intact BTB, and in those expressing or lacking CLDN3. LARGE SCALE DATA None. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Further studies will be needed to determine whether the expression of other BTB components is altered and to decipher the reason for lower Cldn3 and Rhox5 mRNA levels in organotypic cultures. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This work contributes to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms occurring in in vitro matured prepubertal testes. The organotypic culture system will have to be developed further and optimized for human tissue, before potential clinical applications can be envisaged. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by Rouen University Hospital, Ligue contre le Cancer (to L.D.), and co-supported by European Union and Région Normandie (to A.O.). Europe gets involved in Normandie with European Régional Development Fund (ERDF). The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Rondanino
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen University Hospital, Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, F 76000 Rouen, France
| | - A Maouche
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen University Hospital, Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, F 76000 Rouen, France
| | - L Dumont
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen University Hospital, Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, F 76000 Rouen, France
| | - A Oblette
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen University Hospital, Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, F 76000 Rouen, France
| | - N Rives
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen University Hospital, Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, F 76000 Rouen, France
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Hernandez A. Thyroid Hormone Role and Economy in the Developing Testis. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2018; 106:473-500. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2017.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Sarkar D, Singh SK. Maternal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ether (BDE-209) during lactation affects germ cell survival with altered testicular glucose homeostasis and oxidative status through down-regulation of Cx43 and p27Kip1 in prepubertal mice offspring. Toxicology 2017; 386:103-119. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2017.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2017] [Revised: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Lara NLM, França LR. Neonatal hypothyroidism does not increase Sertoli cell proliferation in iNOS−/− mice. Reproduction 2017; 154:13-22. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cell (SC) proliferation in mice occurs until two weeks after birth and is mainly regulated by FSH and thyroid hormones. Previous studies have shown that transient neonatal hypothyroidism in laboratory rodents is able to extend SC mitotic activity, leading ultimately to higher testis size and daily sperm production (DSP) in adult animals. Moreover, we have shown that due to higher SC proliferation and lower germ cell apoptosis, iNOS deficiency in mice also results in higher testis size and DSP. Although the cell size was smaller, the Leydig cells (LCs) number per testis also significantly increased in iNOS−/−mice. Our aims in the present study were to investigate if the combination of neonatal hypothyroidism and iNOS deficiency promotes additive effects in SC number, testis size and DSP. Hypothyroidism was induced in wild-type (WT) and iNOS−/−mice using 6-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) through the mother’s drinking water from 0 to 20 days of age, and were sacrificed at adulthood. Our results showed that, in contrast to the WT mice in which testis size, DSP and SC numbers increased significantly by 20, 40 and 70% respectively, after PTU treatment, no additive effects were observed for these parameters in treated iNOS−/−mice, as well as for LC. No alterations were observed in spermatogenesis in any group evaluated. Although we still do not have an explanation for these intriguing findings, we are currently investigating whether thyroid hormones influence iNOS levels and/or counterbalance physiological effects of iNOS deficiency in testis function and spermatogenesis.
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Male reproductive toxicity of CrVI: In-utero exposure to CrVI at the critical window of testis differentiation represses the expression of Sertoli cell tight junction proteins and hormone receptors in adult F 1 progeny rats. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 69:84-98. [PMID: 28192182 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The effect of gestational exposure to CrVI (occupational/environmental pollutant and target to Sertoli cells(SC)) was tested in a rat model during the testicular differentiation from the bipotential gonad may interrupt spermatogenesis by disrupting SC tight junctions(TJ) and it's proteins and hormone receptors. Pregnant Wistar rats were exposed to 50/100/200ppm CrVI through drinking water during embryonic days 9-14. On Postnatal day 120, testes were subjected to ion exchange chromatographic analysis and revealed increased level of CrIII in SCs and germ cells, serum and testicular interstitial fluid(TIF). Microscopic analyses showed seminiferous tubules atrophy and disruption of SC TJ, which also recorded decreased testosterone in TIF. mRNA and Protein expression analyses attested decreased level of Fshr, Ar, occludin and claudin-11 in SCs. Immunofluorescent detection revealed weak signal of TJ proteins. Taken together, we concluded that gestational exposure to CrVI interferes with the expression of SC TJ proteins due to attenuated expression of hormone receptors.
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Ahmed N, Yufei H, Yang P, Muhammad Yasir W, Zhang Q, Liu T, Hong C, Lisi H, Xiaoya C, Chen Q. Cytological study on Sertoli cells and their interactions with germ cells during annual reproductive cycle in turtle. Ecol Evol 2016; 6:4050-64. [PMID: 27516863 PMCID: PMC4972231 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.2193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2016] [Revised: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs) play a central role in the development of germ cells within functional testes and exhibit varying morphology during spermatogenesis. This present study investigated the seasonal morphological changes in SCs in the reproductive cycle of Pelodiscus sinensis by light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and immunohistochemistry. During hibernation period with the quiescent of spermatogenesis, several autophagosomes were observed inside the SCs, the processes of which retracted. In early spermatogenesis, when the germ cells started to proliferate, the SCs contained numerous lipid droplets instead of autophagosomes. In late spermatogenesis, the SCs processes became very thin and contacted several round/elongated spermatids in pockets. At this time, abundant endoplasmic reticulum and numerous mitochondria were present in the SCs. The organization of the tight junctions and the adherens junctions between the SCs and germ cells also changed during the reproductive cycle. Moreover, SCs were involved in the formation of cytoplasmic bridges, phagophores, and exosome secretions during spermatogenesis. Tubulobulbar complexes (TBC) were also developed by SCs around the nucleus of the spermatid at the time of spermiation. Strong, positive expression of vimentin was noted on the SCs during late spermatogenesis compared with the hibernation stage and the early stage of spermatogenesis. These data provide clear cytological evidence about the seasonal changes in SCs, corresponding with their different roles in germ cells within the Chinese soft‐shelled turtle Pelodiscus sinensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisar Ahmed
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology College of Veterinary Medicine Nanjing Agricultural University Nanjing 210095 China; Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences LUAWMS Uthal 90150 Pakistan
| | - Huang Yufei
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology College of Veterinary Medicine Nanjing Agricultural University Nanjing 210095 China
| | - Ping Yang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology College of Veterinary Medicine Nanjing Agricultural University Nanjing 210095 China
| | - Waqas Muhammad Yasir
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology College of Veterinary Medicine Nanjing Agricultural University Nanjing 210095 China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology College of Veterinary Medicine Nanjing Agricultural University Nanjing 210095 China
| | - Tengfei Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology College of Veterinary Medicine Nanjing Agricultural University Nanjing 210095 China
| | - Chen Hong
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology College of Veterinary Medicine Nanjing Agricultural University Nanjing 210095 China
| | - Hu Lisi
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology College of Veterinary Medicine Nanjing Agricultural University Nanjing 210095 China
| | - Chu Xiaoya
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology College of Veterinary Medicine Nanjing Agricultural University Nanjing 210095 China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology College of Veterinary Medicine Nanjing Agricultural University Nanjing 210095 China
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Martinez ME, Karaczyn A, Stohn JP, Donnelly WT, Croteau W, Peeters RP, Galton VA, Forrest D, St Germain D, Hernandez A. The Type 3 Deiodinase Is a Critical Determinant of Appropriate Thyroid Hormone Action in the Developing Testis. Endocrinology 2016; 157:1276-88. [PMID: 26727108 PMCID: PMC4769364 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Timely and appropriate levels of thyroid hormone (TH) signaling are necessary to ensure normal developmental outcomes in many tissues. Studies using pharmacological models of altered TH status have revealed an influence of these hormones on testis development and size, but little is known about the role of endogenous determinants of TH action in the developing male gonads. Using a genetic approach, we demonstrate that the type 3 deiodinase (D3), which inactivates TH and protects developing tissues from undue TH action, is a key factor. D3 is highly expressed in the developing testis, and D3-deficient (D3KO) mice exhibit thyrotoxicosis and cell proliferation arrest in the neonatal testis, resulting in an approximately 75% reduction in testis size. This is accompanied by larger seminiferous tubules, impaired spermatogenesis, and a hormonal profile indicative of primary hypogonadism. A deficiency in the TH receptor-α fully normalizes testis size and adult testis gene expression in D3KO mice, indicating that the effects of D3 deficiency are mediated through this type of receptor. Similarly, genetic deficiencies in the D2 or in the monocarboxylate transporter 8 partially rescue the abnormalities in testis size and gonadal axis gene expression featured in the D3KO mice. Our study highlights the testis as an important tissue in which determinants of TH action coordinately converge to ensure normal development and identifies D3 as a critical factor in testis development and in testicular protection from thyrotoxicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Elena Martinez
- Department of Molecular Medicine (M.E.M., A.K., J.P.S., D.S.G., A.H.), Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine 04074; Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology (W.D., V.A.G.) and Medicine (W.C.), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756; Rotterdam Thyroid Center (R.P.P.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Endocrinology and Receptor Biology (R.P.P., D.F.), National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Aldona Karaczyn
- Department of Molecular Medicine (M.E.M., A.K., J.P.S., D.S.G., A.H.), Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine 04074; Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology (W.D., V.A.G.) and Medicine (W.C.), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756; Rotterdam Thyroid Center (R.P.P.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Endocrinology and Receptor Biology (R.P.P., D.F.), National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - J Patrizia Stohn
- Department of Molecular Medicine (M.E.M., A.K., J.P.S., D.S.G., A.H.), Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine 04074; Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology (W.D., V.A.G.) and Medicine (W.C.), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756; Rotterdam Thyroid Center (R.P.P.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Endocrinology and Receptor Biology (R.P.P., D.F.), National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - William T Donnelly
- Department of Molecular Medicine (M.E.M., A.K., J.P.S., D.S.G., A.H.), Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine 04074; Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology (W.D., V.A.G.) and Medicine (W.C.), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756; Rotterdam Thyroid Center (R.P.P.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Endocrinology and Receptor Biology (R.P.P., D.F.), National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Walburga Croteau
- Department of Molecular Medicine (M.E.M., A.K., J.P.S., D.S.G., A.H.), Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine 04074; Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology (W.D., V.A.G.) and Medicine (W.C.), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756; Rotterdam Thyroid Center (R.P.P.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Endocrinology and Receptor Biology (R.P.P., D.F.), National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Robin P Peeters
- Department of Molecular Medicine (M.E.M., A.K., J.P.S., D.S.G., A.H.), Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine 04074; Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology (W.D., V.A.G.) and Medicine (W.C.), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756; Rotterdam Thyroid Center (R.P.P.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Endocrinology and Receptor Biology (R.P.P., D.F.), National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Valerie A Galton
- Department of Molecular Medicine (M.E.M., A.K., J.P.S., D.S.G., A.H.), Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine 04074; Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology (W.D., V.A.G.) and Medicine (W.C.), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756; Rotterdam Thyroid Center (R.P.P.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Endocrinology and Receptor Biology (R.P.P., D.F.), National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Douglas Forrest
- Department of Molecular Medicine (M.E.M., A.K., J.P.S., D.S.G., A.H.), Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine 04074; Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology (W.D., V.A.G.) and Medicine (W.C.), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756; Rotterdam Thyroid Center (R.P.P.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Endocrinology and Receptor Biology (R.P.P., D.F.), National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Donald St Germain
- Department of Molecular Medicine (M.E.M., A.K., J.P.S., D.S.G., A.H.), Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine 04074; Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology (W.D., V.A.G.) and Medicine (W.C.), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756; Rotterdam Thyroid Center (R.P.P.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Endocrinology and Receptor Biology (R.P.P., D.F.), National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Arturo Hernandez
- Department of Molecular Medicine (M.E.M., A.K., J.P.S., D.S.G., A.H.), Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine 04074; Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology (W.D., V.A.G.) and Medicine (W.C.), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756; Rotterdam Thyroid Center (R.P.P.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Endocrinology and Receptor Biology (R.P.P., D.F.), National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
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Pelletier RM, Akpovi CD, Chen L, Kumar NM, Vitale ML. Complementary expression and phosphorylation of Cx46 and Cx50 during development and following gene deletion in mouse and in normal and orchitic mink testes. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2015; 309:R255-76. [PMID: 26017495 PMCID: PMC4525330 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00152.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Gap junction-mediated communication helps synchronize interconnected Sertoli cell activities. Besides, coordination of germ cell and Sertoli cell activities depends on gap junction-mediated Sertoli cell-germ cell communication. This report assesses mechanisms underlying the regulation of connexin 46 (Cx46) and Cx50 in mouse testis and those accompanying a "natural" seasonal and a pathological arrest of spermatogenesis, resulting from autoimmune orchitis (AIO) in mink. Furthermore, the impact of deleting Cx46 or Cx50 on the expression, phosphorylation of junction proteins, and spermatogenesis is evaluated. Cx46 mRNA and protein expression increased, whereas Cx50 decreased with adulthood in normal mice and mink. Cx46 mRNA and protein expression increased, whereas Cx50 decreased with adulthood in normal mice and mink. During the mink active spermatogenic phase, Cx50 became phosphorylated and localized to the site of the blood-testis barrier. By contrast, Cx46 was dephosphorylated and associated with annular junctions, suggesting phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of Cx46 and Cx50 involvement in the barrier dynamics. Cx46-positive annular junctions in contact with lipid droplets were found. Cx46 and Cx50 expression and localization were altered in mink with AIO. The deletion of Cx46 or Cx50 impacted on other connexin expression and phosphorylation and differently affected tight and adhering junction protein expression. The level of apoptosis, determined by ELISA, and a number of Apostain-labeled spermatocytes and spermatids/tubules were higher in mice lacking Cx46 (Cx46-/-) than wild-type and Cx50-/- mice, arguing for life-sustaining Cx46 gap junction-mediated exchanges in late-stage germ cells secluded from the blood by the barrier. The data show that expression and phosphorylation of Cx46 and Cx50 are complementary in seminiferous tubules.
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Affiliation(s)
- R-Marc Pelletier
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada; and
| | - Casimir D Akpovi
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada; and
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada; and
| | - Nalin M Kumar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - María L Vitale
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada; and
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Itman C, Bielanowicz A, Goh H, Lee Q, Fulcher AJ, Moody SC, Doery JCG, Martin J, Eyre S, Hedger MP, Loveland KL. Murine Inhibin α-Subunit Haploinsufficiency Causes Transient Abnormalities in Prepubertal Testis Development Followed by Adult Testicular Decline. Endocrinology 2015; 156:2254-68. [PMID: 25781564 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Activin production and signaling must be strictly regulated for normal testis development and function. Inhibins are potent activin inhibitors; mice lacking the inhibin-α gene (Inha-/- mice) cannot make inhibin and consequently have highly elevated activin and FSH serum concentrations and excessive activin signaling, resulting in somatic gonadal tumors and infertility. Dose-dependent effects of activin in testicular biology have been widely reported; hence, we hypothesized that male mice lacking one copy of the Inha gene would produce less inhibin and have an abnormal reproductive phenotype. To test this, we compared hormone concentrations, testis development, and sperm production in Inha+/+ and Inha+/- mice. Serum and testicular inhibin-α concentrations in adult Inha+/- mice were approximately 33% lower than wild type, whereas activin A, activin B, FSH, LH, and T were normal. Sixteen-day-old Inha+/- mice had a mixed phenotype, with tubules containing extensive germ cell depletion juxtaposed to tubules with advanced Sertoli and germ cell development. This abnormal phenotype resolved by day 28. By 8 weeks, Inha+/- testes were 11% larger than wild type and supported 44% greater daily sperm production. By 26 weeks of age, Inha+/- testes had distinct abnormalities. Although still fertile, Inha+/- mice had a 27% reduction in spermatogenic efficiency, a greater proportion of S-phase Sertoli cells and lower Leydig cell CYP11A1 expression. This study is the first to identify an intratesticular role for inhibin/inhibin-α subunit, demonstrating that a threshold level of this protein is required for normal testis development and to sustain adult somatic testicular cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Itman
- Priority Research Centres for Reproductive Science (C.I., A.B., J.M., S.E.) and Chemical Biology (C.I.), School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Information Technology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia; Departments of Anatomy and Developmental Biology (H.G., Q.L., K.L.L.) and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (S.C.M., K.L.L.) and Monash Micro Imaging (A.J.F.), Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia; and Faculty of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences (J.C.G.D.), Department of Medicine, Monash Medical Centre, and Monash Institute of Medical Research-Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research (M.P.H.), Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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Legacki E, Conley AJ, Nitta-Oda BJ, Berger T. Porcine Sertoli Cell Proliferation after Androgen Receptor Inactivation1. Biol Reprod 2015; 92:93. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.125716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
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da Rosa LA, Escott GM, Cavalari FC, Schneider CMM, de Fraga LS, Loss EDS. Non-classical effects of androgens on testes from neonatal rats. Steroids 2015; 93:32-8. [PMID: 25449768 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2014.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2014] [Revised: 08/12/2014] [Accepted: 10/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The intratesticular testosterone concentration is high during the early postnatal period although the intracellular androgen receptor expression (iAR) is still absent in Sertoli cells (SCs). This study aimed to evaluate the non-classical effects of testosterone and epitestosterone on calcium uptake and the electrophysiological effects of testosterone (1μM) on SCs from rats on postnatal day (pnd) 3 and 4 with lack of expression of the iAR. In addition, crosstalk on the electrophysiological effects of testosterone and epitestosterone with follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in SCs from 15-day-old rats was evaluated. The isotope (45)Ca(2+) was utilized to evaluate the effects of testosterone and epitestosterone in calcium uptake. The membrane potential of SCs was recorded using a standard single microelectrode technique. No immunoreaction concerning the iAR was observed in SCs on pnd 3 and 4. At this age, both testosterone and epitestosterone increased the (45)Ca(2+) uptake. Testosterone promoted membrane potential depolarization of SCs on pnd 4. FSH application followed by testosterone and epitestosterone reduced the depolarization of the two hormones. Application of epitestosterone 5 min after FSH resulted in a delay of epitestosterone-promoted depolarization. The cell resistance was also reduced. Thus, in SCs from neonatal Wistar rats, both testosterone and epitestosterone act through a non-classical mechanism stimulating calcium uptake in whole testes, and testosterone produces a depolarizing effect on SC membranes. Testosterone and epitestosterone stimulates non-classical actions via a membrane mechanism, which is independent of iAR. FSH and testosterone/epitestosterone affect each other's electrophysiological responses suggesting crosstalk between the intracellular signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Abreu da Rosa
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Monteiro Escott
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Carvalho Cavalari
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Clara Maria Müller Schneider
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Luciano Stürmer de Fraga
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Eloísa da Silveira Loss
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental e Eletrofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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Tarulli GA, Stanton PG, Loveland KL, Rajpert-De Meyts E, McLachlan RI, Meachem SJ. A survey of Sertoli cell differentiation in men after gonadotropin suppression and in testicular cancer. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 3:e24014. [PMID: 23687617 PMCID: PMC3644048 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.24014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
It is widely held that the somatic cell population that is responsible for sperm development and output (Sertoli cells) is terminally differentiated and unmodifiable in adults. It is postulated, with little evidence, that Sertoli cells are not terminally differentiated in some phenotypes of infertility and testicular cancer. This study sought to compare markers of Sertoli cell differentiation in normospermic men, oligospermic men (undergoing gonadotropin suppression) and testicular carcinoma in situ (CIS) and seminoma samples. Confocal microscopy was used to assess the expression of markers of proliferation (PCNA and Ki67) and functional differentiation (androgen receptor). As additional markers of differentiation, the organization of Sertoli cell tight junction and associated proteins were assessed in specimens with carcinoma in situ. In normal men, Sertoli cells exhibited a differentiated phenotype (i.e., PCNA and Ki67 negative, androgen 40 receptor positive). However, after long-term gonadotropin suppression, 1.7 ± 0.6% of Sertoli cells exhibited PCNA reactivity associated with a diminished immunoreactivity in androgen receptor, suggesting an undifferentiated phenotype. Ki67-positive Sertoli cells were also observed. PCNA-positive Sertoli cells were never observed in tubules with carcinoma in situ, and only rarely observed adjacent to seminoma. Tight junction protein localization (claudin 11, JAM-A and ZO-1) was altered in CIS, with a reduction in JAM-A reactivity in Sertoli cells from tubules with CIS and the emergence of strong JAM-A reactivity in seminoma. These findings indicate that adult human Sertoli cells exhibit characteristics of an undifferentiated state in oligospermic men and patients with CIS and seminoma in the presence of germ cell neoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard A Tarulli
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research; Clayton; Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology; Monash University; Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter G Stanton
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research; Clayton; Victoria, Australia; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Monash University; Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Monash University; Victoria, Australia; Monash Institute of Medical Research; Monash University; Victoria, Australia
| | - Ewa Rajpert-De Meyts
- Department of Growth & Reproduction; University of Copenhagen (Rigshospitalet); Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robert I McLachlan
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research; Clayton; Victoria, Australia; Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology; Monash University; Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah J Meachem
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research; Clayton; Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology; Monash University; Victoria, Australia
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Sharma U, Pal D, Singh SK, Kakkar N, Prasad R. Reduced L/B/K alkaline phosphatase gene expression in renal cell carcinoma: plausible role in tumorigenesis. Biochimie 2014; 104:27-35. [PMID: 24909115 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2014.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common kidney cancer in adults. Although several genes have been found to be involved in carcinogenesis of RCC, more great efforts are needed to identify new genes which are responsible for the process. Clear cell RCC, originates from proximal tubule cells, is the most common pathological type of RCC. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a marker enzyme of brush border membrane of proximal tubular cells. Our previous studies showed a significant decreased activity of Liver/Bone/Kidney (L/B/K) alkaline phosphatase in RCC. In the present study, we explored the molecular basis of the decreased activity of ALP in RCC. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry analysis showed decreased ALP protein in RCC. Additionally, real time PCR documented significantly reduced ALP gene expression (P = 0.009). Moreover, RCC cell lines (ACHN and A498) transfected with full length L/B/K cDNA showed decreased migratory property as well as viability of these cells as compared with controls (P = 0.000). Further, L/B/K ALP cDNA transfected cells (ACHN and A498) showed significant increased apoptosis as compared to control (P = 0.000). These findings suggest the new role of ALP in cell viability and apoptosis and involvement in RCC tumorigenesis. However, further studies are needed to explore the exact molecular mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Deeksha Pal
- Department of Biochemistry, PGIMER, Chandigarh, India
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Lucas TF, Nascimento AR, Pisolato R, Pimenta MT, Lazari MFM, Porto CS. Receptors and signaling pathways involved in proliferation and differentiation of Sertoli cells. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 4:e28138. [PMID: 25225624 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.28138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Revised: 02/05/2014] [Accepted: 02/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The identification of the hormones and other factors regulating Sertoli cell survival, proliferation, and maturation in neonatal, peripubertal, and pubertal life remains one of the most critical questions in testicular biology. The regulation of Sertoli cell proliferation and differentiation is thought to be controlled by cell-cell junctions and a set of circulating and local hormones and growth factors. In this review, we will focus on receptors and intracellular signaling pathways activated by androgen, follicle-stimulating hormone, thyroid hormone, activin, retinoids, insulin, insulin-like growth factor, relaxin, and estrogen, with special emphasis on estrogen receptors. Estrogen receptors activate intracellular signaling pathways that converge on cell cycle and transcription factors and play a role in the regulation of Sertoli cell proliferation and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís Fg Lucas
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; INFAR; Vila Clementino; São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Aline R Nascimento
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; INFAR; Vila Clementino; São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Raisa Pisolato
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; INFAR; Vila Clementino; São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Maristela T Pimenta
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; INFAR; Vila Clementino; São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Maria Fatima M Lazari
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; INFAR; Vila Clementino; São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Catarina S Porto
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; INFAR; Vila Clementino; São Paulo, SP Brazil
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Lucas TFG, Lazari MFM, Porto CS. Differential role of the estrogen receptors ESR1 and ESR2 on the regulation of proteins involved with proliferation and differentiation of Sertoli cells from 15-day-old rats. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 382:84-96. [PMID: 24056172 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2013] [Revised: 08/02/2013] [Accepted: 09/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of each estrogen receptors on the regulation of proteins involved with proliferation and differentiation of Sertoli cells from 15-day-old rats. Activation of ESR1 by 17β-estradiol (E2) and ESR1-selective agonist PPT increased CCND1 expression, and this effect was dependent on NF-kB activation. E2 and the ESR2-selective agonist DPN, but not PPT, increased, in a PI3K and CREB-dependent manner, the expression of CDKN1B and the transcription factors GATA-1 and DMRT1. Analyzing the expression of ESR1 and ESR2 in different stages of development of Sertoli cells, we observed that the ESR1/ESR2 ratio decreased with age, and this ratio seems to be important to determine the end of cell proliferation and the start of cell differentiation. In Sertoli cells from 15-day-old rats, the ESR1/ESR2 ratio favors the effect of ESR1 and the activation of this receptor increased [Methyl-(3)H]thymidine incorporation. We propose that in Sertoli cells from 15-day-old rats E2 modulates Sertoli cell proliferation through ESR1/NF-kB-mediated increase of CCND1, and cell cycle exit and differentiation through ESR2/CREB-mediated increase of CDKN1B, GATA-1 and DMRT1. The present study reinforces the important role of estrogen for normal testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís F G Lucas
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Três de maio 100, INFAR, Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP 04044-020, Brazil
| | - Maria Fatima M Lazari
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Três de maio 100, INFAR, Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP 04044-020, Brazil
| | - Catarina S Porto
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Três de maio 100, INFAR, Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP 04044-020, Brazil.
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Abstract
Male reproduction is governed by the classical hypothalamo-hypophyseal testicular axis: Hypothalamic gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH), pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and the gonadal steroid, principally, testosterone. Thyroid hormones have been shown to exert a modulatory influence on this axis and consequently the sexual and spermatogenic function of man. This review will examine the modulatory influence of thyroid hormones on male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Kumar
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Intern, India
| | - Skand Shekhar
- University College of Medical Sciences, Delhi, India
| | - Bodhana Dhole
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Intern, India
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45
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Gao Y, Lee WM, Cheng CY. Thyroid hormone function in the rat testis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:188. [PMID: 25414694 PMCID: PMC4220729 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid hormones are emerging regulators of testicular function since Sertoli, germ, and Leydig cells are found to express thyroid hormone receptors (TRs). These testicular cells also express deiodinases, which are capable of converting the pro-hormone T4 to the active thyroid hormone T3, or inactivating T3 or T4 to a non-biologically active form. Furthermore, thyroid hormone transporters are also found in the testis. Thus, the testis is equipped with the transporters and the enzymes necessary to maintain the optimal level of thyroid hormone in the seminiferous epithelium, as well as the specific TRs to execute thyroid hormone action in response to different stages of the epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis. Studies using genetic models and/or goitrogens (e.g., propylthiouracil) have illustrated a tight physiological relationship between thyroid hormone and testicular function, in particular, Sertoli cell differentiation status, mitotic activity, gap junction function, and blood-testis barrier assembly. These findings are briefly summarized and discussed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Gao
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA
| | - Will M. Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - C. Yan Cheng
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA
- *Correspondence: C. Yan Cheng, The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA e-mail: ;
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Govindaraj V, Arya SV, Rao AJ. Differential action of glycoprotein hormones: significance in cancer progression. Discov Oncol 2013; 5:1-10. [PMID: 24129797 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-013-0164-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 10/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth of multicellular organisms depends on maintenance of proper balance between proliferation and differentiation. Any disturbance in this balance in animal cells can lead to cancer. Experimental evidence is provided to conclude with special reference to the action of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) on Sertoli cells, and luteinizing hormone (LH) on Leydig cells that these hormones exert a differential action on their target cells, i.e., stimulate proliferation when the cells are in an undifferentiated state which is the situation with cancer cells and promote only functional parameters when the cell are fully differentiated. Hormones and growth factors play a key role in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. There is a growing body of evidence that various tumors express some hormones at high levels as well as their cognate receptors indicating the possibility of a role in progression of cancer. Hormones such as LH, FSH, and thyroid-stimulating hormone have been reported to stimulate cell proliferation and act as tumor promoter in a variety of hormone-dependent cancers including gonads, lung, thyroid, uterus, breast, prostate, etc. This review summarizes evidence to conclude that these hormones are produced by some cancer tissues to promote their own growth. Also an attempt is made to explain the significance of the differential action of hormones in progression of cancer with special reference to prostate cancer.
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Nicholls PK, Harrison CA, Rainczuk KE, Wayne Vogl A, Stanton PG. Retinoic acid promotes Sertoli cell differentiation and antagonises activin-induced proliferation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2013; 377:33-43. [PMID: 23831638 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Revised: 05/25/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
From puberty and throughout adult spermatogenesis, retinoid signalling is essential for germ cell differentiation and male fertility. The initiation of spermatogonial differentiation and germ cell meiosis occurs under the direction of local retinoid signalling in the testis, and corresponds with the final phase of somatic Sertoli cell differentiation at puberty. Here, we consider the cellular and molecular basis of retinoid actions upon Sertoli cell differentiation. Primary rat Sertoli cells were isolated during the pubertal proliferative and quiescent phases at postnatal days 10- and 20- respectively, and cultured with all-trans-retinoic acid. We show that retinoid signalling can potently suppress activin-induced proliferation by antagonising G1 phase progression and entry into the cell cycle. Retinoid signalling was also found to initiate tight junction formation in primary Sertoli cells, consistent with a pro-differentiative role. This study implicates retinoid signalling in the differentiation of both somatic and germ cells in the testis at puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Nicholls
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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Nuclear export factor 3 is involved in regulating the expression of TGF-β3 in an mRNA export activity-independent manner in mouse Sertoli cells. Biochem J 2013; 452:67-78. [PMID: 23438076 DOI: 10.1042/bj20121006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The NXF (nuclear export factor) family members are implicated in the transport of mRNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. Recently, some members of the NXF family have been reported to play divergent functional roles, such as post-transcriptional regulation, translational control, regulation of mRNA stability and trafficking. However, little is known about the roles of NXF3 in spermatogenesis. In the present study, we found that mouse NXF3, specifically expressed in principal cells in segment II of the caput epididymis, as well as Sertoli cells in the mouse testis, was required to mediate TGF-β (transforming growth factor β)-induced down-regulation of Tgfb3/TGF-β3 mRNA expression and protein secretion in Sertoli cells. In addition, NXF3 was also involved in TGF-β-induced transcriptional regulation of other genes associated with Sertoli cell maturation and the restructuring of the Sertoli cell BTB (blood-testis barrier), such as Gata1 (GATA-binding protein 1), Wt1 (Wilms's tumour homologue 1), Cldn11 (claudin11) and Cdkn1a (cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A or p21(Cip1)). The transcriptional regulation of NXF3 was mediated through physical interaction with STRAP (serine/threonine kinase receptor-associated protein), where NXF3 inhibited the complex formation among Smad7, STRAP and activated type I TGF-β receptor. Taken together, our data provide mechanistic insights into the roles of NXF3 in TGF-β-mediated expression of Tgfb3 and other genes. NXF3 may be implicated in Sertoli cell maturation and the extensive restructuring of the Sertoli cell BTB.
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Aponte PM, Schlatt S, Franca LRD. Biotechnological approaches to the treatment of aspermatogenic men. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2013; 68 Suppl 1:157-67. [PMID: 23503966 PMCID: PMC3583150 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2013(sup01)18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2012] [Accepted: 08/30/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspermatogenesis is a severe impairment of spermatogenesis in which germ cells are completely lacking or present in an immature form, which results in sterility in approximately 25% of patients. Because assisted reproduction techniques require mature germ cells, biotechnology is a valuable tool for rescuing fertility while maintaining biological fatherhood. However, this process involves, for instance, the differentiation of preexisting immature germ cells or the production/derivation of sperm from somatic cells. This review critically addresses four potential techniques: sperm derivation in vitro, germ stem cell transplantation, xenologous systems, and haploidization. Sperm derivation in vitro is already feasible in fish and mammals through organ culture or 3D systems, and it is very useful in conditions of germ cell arrest or in type II Sertoli-cell-only syndrome. Patients afflicted by type I Sertoli-cell-only syndrome could also benefit from gamete derivation from induced pluripotent stem cells of somatic origin, and human haploid-like cells have already been obtained by using this novel methodology. In the absence of alternative strategies to generate sperm in vitro, in germ cells transplantation fertility is restored by placing donor cells in the recipient germ-cell-free seminiferous epithelium, which has proven effective in conditions of spermatogonial arrest. Grafting also provides an approach for ex-vivo generation of mature sperm, particularly using prepubertal testis tissue. Although less feasible, haploidization is an option for creating gametes based on biological cloning technology. In conclusion, the aforementioned promising techniques remain largely experimental and still require extensive research, which should address, among other concerns, ethical and biosafety issues, such as gamete epigenetic status, ploidy, and chromatin integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Manuel Aponte
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Nicholls PK, Stanton PG, Chen JL, Olcorn JS, Haverfield JT, Qian H, Walton KL, Gregorevic P, Harrison CA. Activin signaling regulates Sertoli cell differentiation and function. Endocrinology 2012; 153:6065-77. [PMID: 23117933 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-1821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Throughout development, activin A signaling stimulates proliferation and inhibits differentiation of testicular Sertoli cells. A decline in activin levels at puberty corresponds with the differentiation of Sertoli cells that is required to sustain spermatogenesis. In this study, we consider whether terminally differentiated Sertoli cells can revert to a functionally immature phenotype in response to activin A. To increase systemic activin levels, the right tibialis anterior muscle of 7-wk-old C57BL/6J mice was transduced with an adeno-associated virus (rAAV6) expressing activin A. We show that chronic activin signaling reduces testis mass by 23.5% compared with control animals and induces a hypospermatogenic phenotype, consistent with a failure of Sertoli cells to support spermatogenesis. We use permeability tracers and transepithelial electrical resistance measurements to demonstrate that activin potently disrupts blood-testis-barrier function in adult mice and ablates tight junction formation in differentiated primary Sertoli cells, respectively. Furthermore, increased activin signaling reinitiates a program of cellular proliferation in primary Sertoli cells as determined by 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation. Proliferative cells reexpress juvenile markers, including cytokeratin-18, and suppress mature markers, including claudin-11. Thus, activin A is the first identified factor capable of reprogramming Sertoli cells to an immature, dedifferentiated phenotype. This study indicates that activin signaling must be strictly controlled in the adult in order to maintain Sertoli cell function in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Nicholls
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia
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