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Long-Term Maintenance of Viable Adult Rat Sertoli Cells Able to Establish Testis Barrier Components and Function in Response to Androgens. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092405. [PMID: 34572053 PMCID: PMC8467871 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A protocol for the isolation and long-term propagation of adult rat Sertoli cells (SCs) using conditional reprogramming (CR) was developed and the formation of tight junctions as an in vitro model for the blood testis barrier (BTB) was studied. Three pure primary SC lines were isolated successfully and maintained for several months without significant changes in expression levels of SC-typical markers such as SRY-box transcription factor 9 (SOX9), transferrin, clusterin, androgen receptor (AR), and GATA binding protein 1 (GATA1). In addition to AR expression, the tight junction proteins, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and the junctional adhesion molecule-3 (JAM-3), were upregulated and the SC barrier integrity was enhanced by testosterone. Peritubular/myoid cells did not increase the tightness of the SC. The cytokines, interleukin-6 (IL-6), bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP2), and transforming growth factor beta-3 (TGF-β3), negatively affected the tightness of the SC barrier. We have established a protocol for the isolation and long-term propagation of highly pure primary adult rat SCs, which are able to respond to androgen treatments, to form tight junctions and to maintain the mRNA expression of SC-specific genes. By applying this new method, adult SCs can now be analyzed in more detail and might serve as an in vitro model for the study of many SC functions.
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Kuyucu Y, Coşkun G, Şaker D, Karaoğlan Ö, Ürünsak İF, İzol V, Arıdoğan İA, Erdoğan Ş, Özgür H, Polat S. Immunohistochemical examination of androgen receptor and estrogen receptor alpha expressions in obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2021; 67:463-470. [PMID: 34420467 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2021.1958094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In this study, the expression of the androgen receptor (AR) and estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) in testicular tissue of male patients with obstructive azoospermia (OA) and non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. NOA (n = 23) and OA (n = 21) groups were created according to clinical and laboratory archival records. Testicular sperm extraction tissue sections were evaluated according to Johnsen's tubular biopsy scoring (JTBS) method. ERα and AR immunostaining results were evaluated semiquantitatively. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and estradiol were analyzed. Serum FSH and LH concentrations were greater, and testosterone concentrations were lower than the normal values in the NOA group, whereas the OA group revealed normal hormonal values. Serum estradiol concentrations in groups were in the normal range. JTBSs were significantly lower in the NOA group. Decreased AR expression and increased ERα expression were observed in the NOA group compared to the OA group. This suggests that ERα and AR are expressed in Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and myoid cells and are required for normal testicular function. Decreased expression of the AR and increased expression of ERα in the testis may negatively affect spermatogenesis.Abbreviations: AR: androgen receptor; ER: estrogen receptor; ERα: estrogen receptor alpha; FSH: follicle-stimulating hormone; JTBS: Johnsen's tubular biopsy scoring; LH: luteinizing hormone; NOA: non-obstructive azoospermia; OA: obstructive azoospermia; TESE: testicular sperm extraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurdun Kuyucu
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Gülfidan Coşkun
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Dilek Şaker
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Özdem Karaoğlan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - İbrahim Ferhat Ürünsak
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Volkan İzol
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | | | - Şeyda Erdoğan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Hülya Özgür
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Sait Polat
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey
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Raut S, Kumar AV, Deshpande S, Khambata K, Balasinor NH. Sex hormones regulate lipid metabolism in adult Sertoli cells: A genome-wide study of estrogen and androgen receptor binding sites. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 211:105898. [PMID: 33845154 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2021.105898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Optimal functioning of Sertoli cells is crucial for spermatogenesis which is under tight regulation of sex hormones, estrogen and androgen. Adult rat Sertoli cells expresses estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) and androgen receptor (AR), both of which regulate gene transcription by binding to the DNA. The present study is aimed to acquire a genome-wide map of estrogen- and androgen-regulated genes in adult Sertoli cells. ChIP-Seq was performed for ERβ and AR in Sertoli cells under physiological conditions. 30,859 peaks in ERβ and 9,594 peaks in AR were identified with a fold enrichment >2 fold. Pathway analysis for the genes revealed metabolic pathways to be significantly enriched. Since Sertoli cells have supportive functions and provide energy substrates to germ cells during spermatogenesis, significantly enriched metabolic pathways were explored further. Peaks of the genes involved in lipid metabolism, like fatty acid, glyceride, leucine, and sphingosine metabolism were validated. Motif analysis confirmed the presence of estrogen- and androgen-response elements (EREs and AREs). Moreover, transcript levels of enzymes involved in the lipid metabolic pathways were significantly altered in cultured Sertoli cells treated with estrogen and androgen receptor agonists, demonstrating functional significance of these binding sites. This study elucidates a mechanism by which sex hormones regulate lipid metabolism in Sertoli cells by transcriptionally controlling the expression of these genes, thereby shedding light on the roles of these hormones in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanketa Raut
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Anita V Kumar
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Sharvari Deshpande
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Kushaan Khambata
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Nafisa H Balasinor
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India.
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Zhao H, You X, Chen Q, Yang S, Ma Q, He Y, Liu C, Dun Y, Wu J, Zhang C, Yuan D. Icariin Improves Age-Related Testicular Dysfunction by Alleviating Sertoli Cell Injury via Upregulation of the ER α/Nrf2-Signaling Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:677. [PMID: 32528279 PMCID: PMC7247842 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells play crucial roles in spermatogenesis and are impaired by aging. Icariin, a flavonoid from Epimedium, has been reported to exhibit anti-aging effects and improve testicular dysfunction in the clinical setting. However, whether icariin improves age-related degeneration of testicular function via protection from Sertoli cell injury remains unclear. In the present study, we evaluated the protective effect of icariin on Sertoli cell injury and explored the possible mechanism(s) in vivo and in vitro. Dietary administration of icariin for 4 months significantly ameliorated the age-related decline in testicular function by increasing testicular and epididymal weights and indices, sperm count and sperm viability, testicular testosterone and estradiol concentrations, and seminiferous tubule diameters and heights. In addition, icariin protected age-related Sertoli cells from injury as evidenced by an analysis of Sertoli cell number, ultrastructure, and function. Such changes were accompanied by upregulation of ERα and Nrf2 signaling in Sertoli cells. Parallel in vitro studies also demonstrated that icariin inhibited untoward effects on the TM4 mouse Sertoli cell line with concomitant upregulation of ERα and Nrf2 signaling. Conversely, ERα siRNA reversed icariin-mediated protection of Sertoli cell injury. Our data suggest that icariin effectively ameliorates age-related degeneration of testicular function by alleviating Sertoli cell injury via the ERα/Nrf2 signal-transduction pathway. Thus, mitigating Sertoli cell damage via the ERα/Nrf2 signaling pathway likely represents a promising strategy for the prevention of age-related testicular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixia Zhao
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China.,Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Xu You
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Qian Chen
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China.,The Second People's Hospital of Yichang, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Siqi Yang
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Qiongyan Ma
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Yumin He
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China.,Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Chaoqi Liu
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Yaoyan Dun
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Material Analysis and Testing Center, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Changcheng Zhang
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China.,Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Ding Yuan
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
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Cheng M, Michalski S, Kommagani R. Role for Growth Regulation by Estrogen in Breast Cancer 1 (GREB1) in Hormone-Dependent Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092543. [PMID: 30154312 PMCID: PMC6163654 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones play important roles in the onset and progression of several cancers, such as breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer. Although drugs targeting sex hormone function are useful in treating cancer, tumors often develop resistance. Thus, we need to define the downstream effectors of sex hormones in order to develop new treatment strategies for these cancers. Recent studies unearthed one potential mediator of steroid hormone action in tumors: growth regulation by estrogen in breast cancer 1 (GREB1). GREB1 is an early estrogen-responsive gene, and its expression is correlated with estrogen levels in breast cancer patients. Additionally, GREB1 responds to androgen in prostate cancer cells, and can stimulate the proliferation of breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer cells. Recent studies have shown that GREB1 also responds to progesterone in human endometrial cells, suggesting that GREB1 is a pan steroid-responsive gene. This mini-review examines evidence that GREB1 participates in several hormone-dependent cancers and could be targeted to treat these cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
| | - Stephanie Michalski
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
| | - Ramakrishna Kommagani
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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Cooke PS, Nanjappa MK, Ko C, Prins GS, Hess RA. Estrogens in Male Physiology. Physiol Rev 2017; 97:995-1043. [PMID: 28539434 PMCID: PMC6151497 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00018.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 263] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Revised: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogens have historically been associated with female reproduction, but work over the last two decades established that estrogens and their main nuclear receptors (ESR1 and ESR2) and G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) also regulate male reproductive and nonreproductive organs. 17β-Estradiol (E2) is measureable in blood of men and males of other species, but in rete testis fluids, E2 reaches concentrations normally found only in females and in some species nanomolar concentrations of estrone sulfate are found in semen. Aromatase, which converts androgens to estrogens, is expressed in Leydig cells, seminiferous epithelium, and other male organs. Early studies showed E2 binding in numerous male tissues, and ESR1 and ESR2 each show unique distributions and actions in males. Exogenous estrogen treatment produced male reproductive pathologies in laboratory animals and men, especially during development, and studies with transgenic mice with compromised estrogen signaling demonstrated an E2 role in normal male physiology. Efferent ductules and epididymal functions are dependent on estrogen signaling through ESR1, whose loss impaired ion transport and water reabsorption, resulting in abnormal sperm. Loss of ESR1 or aromatase also produces effects on nonreproductive targets such as brain, adipose, skeletal muscle, bone, cardiovascular, and immune tissues. Expression of GPER is extensive in male tracts, suggesting a possible role for E2 signaling through this receptor in male reproduction. Recent evidence also indicates that membrane ESR1 has critical roles in male reproduction. Thus estrogens are important physiological regulators in males, and future studies may reveal additional roles for estrogen signaling in various target tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul S Cooke
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois; Department of Urology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Manjunatha K Nanjappa
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois; Department of Urology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - CheMyong Ko
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois; Department of Urology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Gail S Prins
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois; Department of Urology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Rex A Hess
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois; Department of Urology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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7
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Wang H, Wen L, Yuan Q, Sun M, Niu M, He Z. Establishment and applications of male germ cell and Sertoli cell lines. Reproduction 2016; 152:R31-40. [PMID: 27069011 DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Within the seminiferous tubules there are two major cell types, namely male germ cells and Sertoli cells. Recent studies have demonstrated that male germ cells and Sertoli cells can have significant applications in treating male infertility and other diseases. However, primary male germ cells are hard to proliferate in vitro and the number of spermatogonial stem cells is scarce. Therefore, methods that promote the expansion of these cell populations are essential for their use from the bench to the bed side. Notably, a number of cell lines for rodent spermatogonia, spermatocytes and Sertoli cells have been developed, and significantly we have successfully established a human spermatogonial stem cell line with an unlimited proliferation potential and no tumor formation. This newly developed cell line could provide an abundant source of cells for uncovering molecular mechanisms underlying human spermatogenesis and for their utilization in the field of reproductive and regenerative medicine. In this review, we discuss the methods for establishing spermatogonial, spermatocyte and Sertoli cell lines using various kinds of approaches, including spontaneity, transgenic animals with oncogenes, simian virus 40 (SV40) large T antigen, the gene coding for a temperature-sensitive mutant of p53, telomerase reverse gene (Tert), and the specific promoter-based selection strategy. We further highlight the essential applications of these cell lines in basic research and translation medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related GenesRenji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center
| | - Liping Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related GenesRenji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center
| | - Qingqing Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related GenesRenji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center
| | - Min Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related GenesRenji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center
| | - Minghui Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related GenesRenji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center
| | - Zuping He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related GenesRenji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center Shanghai Institute of AndrologyRen Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China Shanghai Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai, China Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineShanghai, China
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Fietz D, Markmann M, Lang D, Konrad L, Geyer J, Kliesch S, Chakraborty T, Hossain H, Bergmann M. Transfection of Sertoli cells with androgen receptor alters gene expression without androgen stimulation. BMC Mol Biol 2015; 16:23. [PMID: 26715186 PMCID: PMC4696255 DOI: 10.1186/s12867-015-0051-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Androgens play an important role for the development of male fertility and gained interest as growth and survival factors for certain types of cancer. Androgens act via the androgen receptor (AR/Ar), which is involved in various cell biological processes such as sex differentiation. To study the functional mechanisms of androgen action, cell culture systems and AR-transfected cell lines are needed. Transfection of AR into cell lines and subsequent gene expression analysis after androgen treatment is well established to investigate the molecular biology of target cells. However, it remains unclear how the transfection with AR itself can modulate the gene expression even without androgen stimulation. Therefore, we transfected Ar-deficient rat Sertoli cells 93RS2 by electroporation using a full length human AR. Results Transfection success was confirmed by Western Blotting, immunofluorescence and RT-PCR. AR transfection-related gene expression alterations were detected with microarray-based genome-wide expression profiling of transfected and non-transfected 93RS2 cells without androgen stimulation. Microarray analysis revealed 672 differentially regulated genes with 200 up- and 472 down-regulated genes. These genes could be assigned to four major biological categories (development, hormone response, immune response and metabolism). Microarray results were confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR analysis for 22 candidate genes. Conclusion We conclude from our data, that the transfection of Ar-deficient Sertoli cells with AR has a measurable effect on gene expression even without androgen stimulation and cause Sertoli cell damage. Studies using AR-transfected cells, subsequently stimulated, should consider alterations in AR-dependent gene expression as off-target effects of the AR transfection itself. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12867-015-0051-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Fietz
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University, Frankfurter Straße 98, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
| | - M Markmann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
| | - D Lang
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University, Frankfurter Straße 98, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
| | - L Konrad
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
| | - J Geyer
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University, Frankfurter Straße 98, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
| | - S Kliesch
- Department of Clinical Andrology, Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Clinic Münster, Münster, Germany.
| | - T Chakraborty
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
| | - H Hossain
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
| | - M Bergmann
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University, Frankfurter Straße 98, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
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Hunter D, Anand-Ivell R, Danner S, Ivell R. Models of in vitro spermatogenesis. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 2:32-43. [PMID: 22553488 PMCID: PMC3341244 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.19383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms that lead to the differentiation of male germ cells from their spermatogonial stem cells through meiosis to give rise to mature haploid spermatozoa has been a major quest for many decades. Unlike most other cell types this differentiation process is more or less completely dependent upon the cells being located within the strongly structured niche provided by mature Sertoli cells within an intact seminiferous epithelium. While much new information is currently being obtained through the application and description of relevant gene mutations, there is still a considerable need for in vitro models with which to explore the mechanisms involved. Not only are systems of in vitro spermatogenesis important for understanding the basic science, they have marked pragmatic value in offering ex vivo systems for the artificial maturation of immature germ cells from male infertility patients, as well as providing opportunities for the transgenic manipulation of male germ cells. In this review, we have summarized literature relating to simplistic culturing of germ cells, co-cultures of germ cells with other cell types, especially with Sertoli cells, cultures of seminiferous tubule fragments, and briefly mention the opportunities of xenografting larger testicular pieces. The majority of methods are successful in allowing the differentiation of small steps in the progress of spermatogonia to spermatozoa; few tolerate the chromosomal reduction division through meiosis, and even fewer seem able to complete the complex morphogenesis which results in freely swimming spermatozoa. However, recent progress with complex culture environments, such as 3-d matrices, suggest that possibly success is now not too far away.
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Vija L, Boukari K, Loosfelt H, Meduri G, Viengchareun S, Binart N, Young J, Lombès M. Ligand-dependent stabilization of androgen receptor in a novel mouse ST38c Sertoli cell line. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 384:32-42. [PMID: 24440575 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 09/20/2013] [Revised: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Mature Sertoli cells (SC) are critical mediators of androgen regulation of spermatogenesis, via the androgen receptor (AR) signaling. Available immortalized SC lines loose AR expression or androgen responsiveness, hampering the study of endogenous AR regulation in SC. We have established and characterized a novel clonal mouse immortalized SC line, ST38c. These cells express some SC specific genes (sox9, wt1, tjp1, clu, abp, inhbb), but not fshr, yet more importantly, maintain substantial expression of endogenous AR as determined by PCR, immunocytochemistry, testosterone binding assays and Western blots. Microarrays allowed identification of some (146) but not all (rhox5, spinlw1), androgen-dependent, SC expressed target genes. Quantitative Real-Time PCR validated regulation of five up-regulated and two down-regulated genes. We show that AR undergoes androgen-dependent transcriptional activation as well as agonist-dependent posttranslational stabilization in ST38c cells. This cell line constitutes a useful experimental tool for future investigations on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of androgen receptor signaling in SC function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Vija
- INSERM U693 and Univ Paris-Sud 11, Faculté de Médecine Paris-Sud, UMR-S693, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94276, France; «Carol Davila» University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Kahina Boukari
- INSERM U693 and Univ Paris-Sud 11, Faculté de Médecine Paris-Sud, UMR-S693, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94276, France
| | - Hugues Loosfelt
- INSERM U693 and Univ Paris-Sud 11, Faculté de Médecine Paris-Sud, UMR-S693, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94276, France
| | - Geri Meduri
- INSERM U693 and Univ Paris-Sud 11, Faculté de Médecine Paris-Sud, UMR-S693, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94276, France
| | - Say Viengchareun
- INSERM U693 and Univ Paris-Sud 11, Faculté de Médecine Paris-Sud, UMR-S693, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94276, France
| | - Nadine Binart
- INSERM U693 and Univ Paris-Sud 11, Faculté de Médecine Paris-Sud, UMR-S693, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94276, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital de Bicêtre, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies de la Reproduction, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94275, France
| | - Jacques Young
- INSERM U693 and Univ Paris-Sud 11, Faculté de Médecine Paris-Sud, UMR-S693, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94276, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital de Bicêtre, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies de la Reproduction, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94275, France
| | - Marc Lombès
- INSERM U693 and Univ Paris-Sud 11, Faculté de Médecine Paris-Sud, UMR-S693, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94276, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital de Bicêtre, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies de la Reproduction, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94275, France.
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11
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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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Bonagura TW, Zhou H, Babischkin JS, Pepe GJ, Albrecht ED. Expression of P-450 aromatase, estrogen receptor α and β, and α-inhibin in the fetal baboon testis after estrogen suppression during the second half of gestation. Endocrine 2011; 39:75-82. [PMID: 21061091 PMCID: PMC3381799 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-010-9414-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2010] [Accepted: 10/04/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Expression of the molecules that modulate the synthesis and action of estrogen in, or reflect function of, Sertoli cells was determined in the fetal testis of baboons in which estrogen levels were suppressed in the second half of gestation to determine whether this may account for the previously reported alteration in fetal testis germ cell development. P-450 aromatase, estrogen receptor (ER) β, and α-inhibin protein assessed by immunocytochemistry was abundantly expressed in Sertoli cells of the fetal baboon testis, but unaltered in baboons in which estrogen levels were suppressed by letrozole administration. Moreover, P-450 aromatase and ERα and β mRNA levels, assessed by real-time RT-PCR, were similar in germ/Sertoli cells and interstitial cells isolated from the fetal testis of untreated and letrozole-treated baboons. These results indicate that expression of the proteins that modulate the formation and action of estrogen in, and function of, Sertoli cells is not responsible for the changes in germ cell development in the fetal testis of estrogen-deprived baboons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W. Bonagura
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Sciences, and Physiology, Center for Studies in Reproduction, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Bressler Research Laboratories 11-019, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Hui Zhou
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Sciences, and Physiology, Center for Studies in Reproduction, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Bressler Research Laboratories 11-019, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Jeffery S. Babischkin
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Sciences, and Physiology, Center for Studies in Reproduction, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Bressler Research Laboratories 11-019, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Gerald J. Pepe
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Eugene D. Albrecht
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Sciences, and Physiology, Center for Studies in Reproduction, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Bressler Research Laboratories 11-019, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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Willems A, Batlouni SR, Esnal A, Swinnen JV, Saunders PTK, Sharpe RM, França LR, De Gendt K, Verhoeven G. Selective ablation of the androgen receptor in mouse sertoli cells affects sertoli cell maturation, barrier formation and cytoskeletal development. PLoS One 2010; 5:e14168. [PMID: 21152390 PMCID: PMC2994754 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0014168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2010] [Accepted: 11/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The observation that mice with a selective ablation of the androgen receptor (AR) in Sertoli cells (SC) (SCARKO mice) display a complete block in meiosis supports the contention that SC play a pivotal role in the control of germ cell development by androgens. To delineate the physiological and molecular mechanism responsible for this control, we compared tubular development in pubertal SCARKO mice and littermate controls. Particular attention was paid to differences in SC maturation, SC barrier formation and cytoskeletal organization and to the molecular mediators potentially involved. Functional analysis of SC barrier development by hypertonic perfusion and lanthanum permeation techniques and immunohistochemical analysis of junction formation showed that SCARKO mice still attempt to produce a barrier separating basal and adluminal compartment but that barrier formation is delayed and defective. Defective barrier formation was accompanied by disturbances in SC nuclear maturation (immature shape, absence of prominent, tripartite nucleoli) and SC polarization (aberrant positioning of SC nuclei and cytoskeletal elements such as vimentin). Quantitative RT-PCR was used to study the transcript levels of genes potentially related to the described phenomena between day 8 and 35. Differences in the expression of SC genes known to play a role in junction formation could be shown from day 8 for Cldn11, from day 15 for Cldn3 and Espn, from day 20 for Cdh2 and Jam3 and from day 35 for ZO-1. Marked differences were also noted in the transcript levels of several genes that are also related to cell adhesion and cytoskeletal dynamics but that have not yet been studied in SC (Actn3, Ank3, Anxa9, Scin, Emb, Mpzl2). It is concluded that absence of a functional AR in SC impedes the remodeling of testicular tubules expected at the onset of spermatogenesis and interferes with the creation of the specific environment needed for germ cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Willems
- Laboratory for Experimental Medicine and Endocrinology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sergio R. Batlouni
- Aquaculture Center (CAUNESP), São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Arantza Esnal
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Centre for Reproductive Biology, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Johannes V. Swinnen
- Laboratory for Experimental Medicine and Endocrinology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philippa T. K. Saunders
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Centre for Reproductive Biology, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Richard M. Sharpe
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Centre for Reproductive Biology, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Luiz R. França
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Karel De Gendt
- Laboratory for Experimental Medicine and Endocrinology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Guido Verhoeven
- Laboratory for Experimental Medicine and Endocrinology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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17β-Estradiol Regulates Cultured Immature Boar Sertoli Cell Proliferation via the cAMP-ERK1/2 Pathway and the Estrogen Receptor β. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/s1671-2927(09)60208-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Lucas TFG, Royer C, Siu ER, Lazari MFM, Porto CS. Expression and Signaling of G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor 1 (GPER) in Rat Sertoli Cells1. Biol Reprod 2010; 83:307-17. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.110.084160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Abstract
Homeobox genes encode transcription factors that have crucial roles in embryogenesis. A recently discovered set of homeobox genes--the Rhox genes--are expressed during both embryogenesis and in adult reproductive tissues. The 33 known mouse Rhox genes are clustered together in a single region on the X chromosome, while likely descendents of the primodial Rhox cluster, Arx and Esx1, have moved to other positions on the X chromosome. Here, we summarize what is known about the regulation and function of Rhox cluster and Rhox-related genes during embryogenesis and gametogenesis. The founding member of the Rhox gene cluster--Rhox5 (previously known as Pem)--has been studied in the most depth and thus is the focus of this review. We also discuss the unusually rapid evolution of the Rhox gene cluster.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A MacLean
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
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Cowan G, Childs AJ, Anderson RA, Saunders PTK. Establishment of long-term monolayer cultures of somatic cells from human fetal testes and expansion of peritubular myoid cells in the presence of androgen. Reproduction 2010; 139:749-57. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-09-0532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The somatic (Sertoli cell (SC), Leydig cell (LC), and peritubular myoid (PTM) cell) cells play key roles in development of the fetal testis. We established monolayer cultures from second trimester human testes and investigated the pattern of expression of cell-lineage characteristic mRNAs. Expression of some SC-associated genes (SRY, SOX9, WT1, GATA4, and SF1) was detectable up to and including passage 3 (P3), while others (anti-Müllerian hormone; desert hedgehog) present prior to dissociation were not expressed in the cultured cells. Transcripts encoding the androgen receptor were expressed but addition of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) had no impact on expression of mRNAs expressed in SC or LC. Total concentrations of mRNAs encoding smooth muscle actin (ACTA2) and desmin increased from P1 to P3; an increasing proportion of the cells in the cultures were immunopositive for ACTA2 consistent with proliferation/differentiation of PTM cells. In conclusion, somatic cell monolayer cultures were established from human fetal testes; these cultures could form the basis for future studies based on isolation of purified populations of somatic cells and manipulation of gene expression that is difficult to achieve with organ culture systems. Our results suggest that fetal SC do not maintain a fully differentiated phenotype in vitro, yet PTM (ACTA2 positive) cells readily adapt to monolayer culture conditions in the presence of DHT. This culture system provides an opportunity to study the impact of regulatory factors on gene expression in PTM cells, a population thought to play a key role in mediating androgen action within the developing testis.
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Hu Z, Dandekar D, O'Shaughnessy PJ, De Gendt K, Verhoeven G, Wilkinson MF. Androgen-induced Rhox homeobox genes modulate the expression of AR-regulated genes. Mol Endocrinol 2009; 24:60-75. [PMID: 19901196 DOI: 10.1210/me.2009-0303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhox5, the founding member of the reproductive homeobox on the X chromosome (Rhox) gene cluster, encodes a homeodomain-containing transcription factor that is selectively expressed in Sertoli cells, where it promotes the survival of male germ cells. To identify Rhox5-regulated genes, we generated 15P-1 Sertoli cell clones expressing physiological levels of Rhox5 from a stably transfected expression vector. Microarray analysis identified many genes altered in expression in response to Rhox5, including those encoding proteins controlling cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, metabolism, and cell-cell interactions. Fifteen of these Rhox5-regulated genes were chosen for further analysis. Analysis of Rhox5-null male mice indicated that at least nine of these are Rhox5-regulated in the testes in vivo. Many of them have distinct postnatal expression patterns and are regulated by Rhox5 at different postnatal time points. Most of them are expressed in Sertoli cells, indicating that they are candidates to be directly regulated by Rhox5. Transfection analysis with expression vectors encoding different mouse and human Rhox family members revealed that the regulatory response of a subset of these Rhox5-regulated genes is both conserved and redundant. Given that Rhox5 depends on androgen receptor (AR) for expression in Sertoli cells, we examined whether some Rhox5-regulated genes are also regulated by AR. We provide several lines of evidence that this is the case, leading us to propose that RHOX5 serves as a key intermediate transcription factor that directs some of the actions of AR in the testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiying Hu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Texas M D Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Lazari MFM, Lucas TFG, Yasuhara F, Gomes GRO, Siu ER, Royer C, Fernandes SAF, Porto CS. Estrogen receptors and function in the male reproductive system. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 53:923-33. [DOI: 10.1590/s0004-27302009000800005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2009] [Accepted: 11/11/2009] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
A substantial advance in our understanding on the estrogen signaling occurred in the last decade. Estrogens interact with two receptors, ESR1 and ESR2, also known as ERα and ERβ, respectively. ESR1 and ESR2 belong to the nuclear receptor family of transcription factors. In addition to the well established transcriptional effects, estrogens can mediate rapid signaling, triggered within seconds or minutes. These rapid effects can be mediated by ESRs or the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor GPER, also known as GPR30. The effects of estrogen on cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis are often mediated by growth factors. The understanding of the cross-talk between androgen, estrogen and growth factors signaling pathways is therefore essential to understand the physiopathological mechanisms of estrogen action. In this review we focused on recent discoveries about the nature of the estrogen receptors, and on the signaling and function of estrogen in the male reproductive system.
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20
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Hooley RP, Paterson M, Brown P, Kerr K, Saunders PTK. Intra-testicular injection of adenoviral constructs results in Sertoli cell-specific gene expression and disruption of the seminiferous epithelium. Reproduction 2008; 137:361-70. [PMID: 18955374 DOI: 10.1530/rep-08-0247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process that cannot be modelled in vitro. The somatic Sertoli cells (SCs) within the seminiferous tubules perform a key role in supporting maturation of germ cells (GCs). Progress has been made in determining what aspects of SC function are critical to maintenance of fertility by developing rodent models based on the Cre/LoxP system; however, this is time-consuming and is only applicable to mice. The aim of the present study was to establish methods for direct injection of adenoviral vectors containing shRNA constructs into the testis as a way of inducing target-selective knock-down in vivo. We describe here a series of experiments using adenovirus expressing a green fluorescent protein (GFP) transgene. Injection via the efferent ductules resulted in SC-specific expression of GFP; expression levels paralleled the amount of infective viral particles injected. At the highest doses of virus seminiferous tubule architecture were grossly disturbed and immune cell invasion noted. At lower concentrations, the expression of GFP was variable/negligible, the seminiferous tubule lumen was maintained but stage-dependent GC loss and development of numerous basal vacuoles was observed. These resembled intercellular dilations of SC junctional complexes previously described in rats and may be a consequence of disturbances in SC function due to interaction of the viral particles with the coxsackie/adenovirus receptor that is a component of the junctional complexes within the blood testis barrier. In conclusion, intra-testicular injection of adenoviral vectors disturbs SC function in vivo and future work will therefore focus on the use of lentiviral delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- R P Hooley
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
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21
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Kohno S, Bermudez DS, Katsu Y, Iguchi T, Guillette LJ. Gene expression patterns in juvenile American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) exposed to environmental contaminants. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2008; 88:95-101. [PMID: 18455813 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2008.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2007] [Revised: 03/04/2008] [Accepted: 03/13/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive and developmental abnormalities have been reported in the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) population from Lake Apopka, FL, that is chronically exposed to a complex mixture of environmental contaminants. To begin to understand the molecular mechanisms that could lead to the observed abnormalities of the reproductive and endocrine system, we quantified concentrations of the steroid hormones testosterone (T) and estradiol-17beta (E(2)) and expression of steroid hormone receptors and genes relating to steroidogenesis in gonadal tissue from juvenile alligators from three lakes in Florida using enzyme immunoassay and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Alterations of ESR2 (estrogen receptor beta) and SF1 (steroidogenic factor 1) mRNA expression in male gonadal tissue, without an observed difference in plasma concentrations of T, from the different lakes, begin to provide insight into potential mechanisms underlying the alterations of the reproductive system previously observed. Likewise, alterations in P450 aromatase and DAX1 (dosage-sensitive sex reversal, adrenal hypoplasia congenita critical region on the X chromosome, gene 1) mRNA expression, with elevated plasma E(2) concentrations in females, provide leads to the potential mechanisms modifying folliculogenesis and ovarian development. The investigation of these genes also helps clarify normal endocrine and reproductive system function in the American alligator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satomi Kohno
- Department of Zoology, 223 Bartram Hall, PO Box 118525, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-8525, USA.
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Wahlgren A, Svechnikov K, Strand ML, Jahnukainen K, Parvinen M, Gustafsson JA, Söder O. Estrogen receptor beta selective ligand 5alpha-Androstane-3beta, 17beta-diol stimulates spermatogonial deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis in rat seminiferous epithelium in vitro. Endocrinology 2008; 149:2917-22. [PMID: 18292193 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-1126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropins and testosterone are important regulators of spermatogenesis, even though gonadotropin receptors and the androgen receptor are not expressed by germ cells. However, a functional role for estrogens in connection with male reproduction has been postulated on the basis of the phenotypes of mice lacking estrogen receptor (ER) and cytochrome P-450 aromatase. This has further support by findings of ER expression in the testis, including that of ERbeta in spermatogonia. 5alpha-Androstane-3beta, 17beta-diol (3betaAdiol), a metabolite of testosterone produced via the intermediate potent androgen 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), has been reported to selectively bind ERbeta rather than EpsilonRalpha, but not androgen receptor. Here, we have characterized the influence of 17beta-estradiol (E), the major physiological estrogen, 3betaAdiol, and DHT on DNA synthesis in vitro by segments of the seminiferous epithelium at different stages of the seminiferous epithelial cycle in the rat. E and 3betaAdiol exerted similar stimulatory effects on premitotic DNA synthesis in stage I segments, whereas other stages tested (V, VIIa, and XIII-IX) remained unresponsive. In contrast, DHT had no effect on this process. 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine labeling of stage I segments revealed a 30-fold higher labeling index in the presence than in the absence of E, and the labeled cells were identified as spermatogonia. Moreover, high levels of 3betaAdiol were found in the testis of intact rats as well as in primary cultures of rat Leydig cells in response to human chorionic gonadotropin. We suggest that 3betaAdiol may serve as a growth factor for germ cells stimulating premitotic DNA synthesis in connection with spermatogenesis via an ERbeta-dependent pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Wahlgren
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska Institutet & University Hospital, S-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden.
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23
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Oliveira AG, Coelho PH, Guedes FD, Mahecha GAB, Hess RA, Oliveira CA. 5alpha-Androstane-3beta,17beta-diol (3beta-diol), an estrogenic metabolite of 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone, is a potent modulator of estrogen receptor ERbeta expression in the ventral prostrate of adult rats. Steroids 2007; 72:914-22. [PMID: 17854852 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2007.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2007] [Revised: 07/04/2007] [Accepted: 08/01/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Prostate is one of the major targets for dihydrotestosterone (DHT), however this gland is also recognized as a nonclassical target for estrogen as it expresses both types of estrogen receptors (ER), especially ERbeta. Nevertheless, the concentrations of aromatase and estradiol in the prostate are low, indicating that estradiol may not be the only estrogenic molecule to play a role in the prostate. It is known that DHT can be metabolized to 5alpha-androstane-3beta,17beta-diol (3beta-diol), a hormone that binds to ERbeta but not to AR. The concentration of 3beta-diol in prostate is much higher than that of estradiol. Based on the high concentration of 3beta-diol and since this metabolite is a physiological ERbeta ligand, we hypothesized that 3beta-diol would be involved in the regulation of ERbeta expression. To test this hypothesis, adult male rats were submitted to castration followed by estradiol, DHT or 3beta-diol replacement. ERbeta and AR protein levels in the prostate were investigated by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting assays. The results showed that after castration, the structure of the prostate was dramatically changed and ERbeta and AR protein levels were decreased. Estradiol had just minor effects on the parameters analyzed. DHT-induced partial recovery of ERbeta while it was the most effective inductor of AR expression. Replacement with 3beta-diol-induced the highest levels of ERbeta, but was comparatively less effective in recovering the AR expression and the gland structure. These results offer evidence that one functional role of 3beta-diol in the prostate may be autoregulation of its natural receptor, ERbeta.
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Affiliation(s)
- André G Oliveira
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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24
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Ramesh R, Pearl CA, At-Taras E, Roser JF, Berger T. Ontogeny of androgen and estrogen receptor expression in porcine testis: Effect of reducing testicular estrogen synthesis. Anim Reprod Sci 2007; 102:286-99. [PMID: 17157457 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2006.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2006] [Accepted: 10/31/2006] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Reducing endogenous estrogen leads to increased proliferation of porcine Sertoli cells during the first 2 months of life. The resulting increase in porcine Sertoli cell numbers is maintained through puberty. The reduced estrogen appears to be the direct hormonal mediator because essentially no changes are observed in other hormones. However, the mechanism for this effect on Sertoli cell proliferation is unknown. The objective of these studies was to evaluate estrogen receptors alpha and beta (ESR1 and ESR2) in conjunction with androgen receptor (AR) on Sertoli cells and other testicular cell types, as an initial step toward understanding how reduced estrogen leads to increased Sertoli cell numbers. Testis sections from treated animals (aromatase inhibition to decrease endogenous estrogen beginning at 1 week of age) and from littermate controls treated with vehicle were subjected to immunocytochemical labeling for ESR1, ESR2, and AR. Three observers scored Sertoli cells, interstitial cells, peritubular myoid cells, and germ cells for intensity of labeling (0: absent; 1+: weak; 2+: moderate; or 3+: strong labeling). AR in Sertoli cells was readily detected at 1 week of age, was very faint in 2-month vehicle controls, and labeling appeared to increase in 3-month vehicle controls. AR in Sertoli cells, interstitial cells, and apparently germ cells was increased in treated animals at 2 months of age compared with the vehicle controls. This increase was confirmed in western blots. ESR1 and ESR 2 were clearly present in Sertoli cells from 1-week-old animals; ESR in Sertoli cells generally decreased with age with the decrease more apparent for ESR2. ESR1 in Sertoli cells and peritubular myoid cells exhibited some treatment-related effects but reduction of endogenous estrogen did not appear to affect ESR2 in the boar testis. The observed alterations in AR and ESR1 may mediate the increases in Sertoli cell proliferation following inhibition of endogenous estrogen production or may reflect the altered function of the Sertoli cells and peritubular myoid cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Revathi Ramesh
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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25
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Chuang CK, Lee KH, Fan CT, Su YS. FSH-sensitive murine sertoli cell lines immortalized by human telomerase gene hTERT express the androgen receptor in response to TNF-alpha stimulation. Biosci Rep 2007; 27:403-11. [PMID: 17968653 DOI: 10.1007/s10540-007-9063-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2007] [Accepted: 10/09/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are regulated by follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone secreted by the pituitary gland and Leydig cells, respectively. However, the expression of the FSH receptor and androgen receptor were undetectable in both primary cultured Sertoli cells and Sertoli cell lines immortalized by SV40 large T antigen. Two Sertoli cell lines, B6Sc-2 and B6Sc-3, were established from the testis of 19-day-old C57BL/6 mice testis by immortalization with human telomere reverse transcriptase. These Sertoli cell lines expressed FSH receptors and the total phosphoprotein patterns were converted after FSH treatment. Additionally, immunological methods demonstrated that these cell lines expressed characteristic Sertoli cell proteins, such as tyrosine-tubulin, vimentin and stem cell factor (SCF). Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) also indicates that they express Sertoli specific mRNAs, such as Amh, claudin11 and ZO-1. The expression of the androgen receptor in both B6Sc-2 and B6Sc-3 cells could be induced by TNF-alpha treatment. The present results indicate that these Sertoli cell lines are more native than others and may thus provide useful tools for in vitro studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-kai Chuang
- Division of Biotechnology, Animal Technology Institute Taiwan, No. 52, Kedung 2nd Rd, Chunan, Miaoli, 35099, Taiwan.
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Lucas TFG, Siu ER, Esteves CA, Monteiro HP, Oliveira CA, Porto CS, Lazari MFM. 17beta-estradiol induces the translocation of the estrogen receptors ESR1 and ESR2 to the cell membrane, MAPK3/1 phosphorylation and proliferation of cultured immature rat Sertoli cells. Biol Reprod 2007; 78:101-14. [PMID: 17928626 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.107.063909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to determine the mechanisms involved in estrogen actions in cultured rat Sertoli cells. RT-PCR detected transcripts for the estrogen receptors ESR1 and ESR2 in cultured immature Sertoli cells and in the testis of 15-, 28-, and 120-day-old rats. The expression of ESR1 and ESR2 was confirmed in Sertoli cells by immunofluorescence and Western blot. Immunohistochemistry with cryosections of testes from immature and adult rats revealed that ESR1 is present in Sertoli, Leydig, and some peritubular myoid cells, and ESR2 is present in multiple cell types, including germ cells. Treatment of Sertoli cells with 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) induced a translocation of ESR1 and ESR2 to the plasma membrane and a concomitant phosphorylation of MAPK3/1. Both effects reached a maximum after 10 min and were blocked by PP2, an inhibitor of the SRC family of protein tyrosine kinases, and by the antiestrogen ICI 182,780 (ICI). MAPK3/1 phosphorylation was also decreased in the presence of AG 1478, an inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) kinase, and in the presence of MAP2K1/2 inhibitor UO126. Treatment with E(2) for 24 h increased the incorporation of [methyl-(3)H]thymidine, which was blocked by ICI. These results indicate that E(2) activates an SRC-mediated translocation of estrogen receptors to the plasma membrane, which results in the activation of EGFR and the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway. In addition, activation of ESR1 and/or ESR2 by E(2) is involved in proliferation of immature Sertoli cells. The estrogen actions in Sertoli cells might be a key step mediating cellular events important for spermatogenesis and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís F G Lucas
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, Brazil
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Wolski KM, Feig C, Kirchhoff C, Cameron DF. Immortalized Sertoli cell lines sk11 and sk9 and binding of spermatids in vitro. Asian J Androl 2007; 9:312-20. [PMID: 17486271 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7262.2007.00256.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To determine the effectiveness of the sk11, sk9 and sk11 TNUA5 Sertoli cell lines in binding germ cells in vitro. METHODS The immortalized Sertoli cell lines sk9, sk11 and sk11 TNUA5 were used in co-culture experiments with germ cells in media with or without reproductive hormones and incubated for 44 h at 32 degrees . The number of germ cells bound to Sertoli cells was then determined and statistically analyzed. Western blot analysis and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) studies were employed to investigate the presence of cell adhesion proteins and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) receptor, respectively. RESULTS No statistical difference between the number of bound step-8 spermatids and bound pre-step 8 spermatids on Sertoli cells from any of the cell lines existed. After the addition of germ cells, Sertoli cells showed more lipid accumulation in their cytoplasm, indicating active phagocytosis. Western blot analysis in the sk11 TNUA5 line indicated the expression of N-cadherin. FSH-only and testosterone-only treatments increased N-cadherin expression, regardless of germ cell addition. The addition of germ cells to the sk11 TNUA5 Sertoli cells increased the expression of espin, as did the addition of FSH with germ cells. RT-PCR studies of the sk11 TNUA5 cells indicated that the mRNA for FSH receptor decreased with successive passages. CONCLUSION In vitro binding between isolated germ cells and sk9, sk11 or sk11 TNUA5 Sertoli cells is not feasible, and therefore these cell lines are not useful for the in vitro investigation of Sertoli-germ cell interactions and primary Sertoli cell isolates must still be used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja M Wolski
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, University of South Florida, College of Medicine, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
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Fujimoto N, Nakajima O, Kitamura S, Ohta S. In vivo function of the 5' flanking region of mouse estrogen receptor beta gene. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2007; 105:57-62. [PMID: 17582758 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2006.12.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2006] [Accepted: 12/21/2006] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The estrogen receptor (ER) subtypes alpha and beta differentially distributed in tissues, and ERbeta is present preferentially in epididymis, testis, prostate, ovary and lung. Although transcription promoter activity has been found in the 5' flanking (5'f) region of the ERbeta gene, it is not known whether the proximal 5'f region is responsible for the tissue-specific distribution. In the present study, we examined the in vivo promoter activity of this region in transgenic mice with the lacZ reporter. About 2.2 kbp of the proximal 5'f region of ERbeta was cloned and inserted into reporter plasmids. This 5'f region of mouse ERbeta, which displayed a substantial promoter activity in vitro, was very similar to that in rats, but showed limited homology with the human gene. Three independent lines of mice containing ERbeta-5'f-lacZ were obtained. Quantitative measurement of mRNA showed that lacZ was expressed only in the testis, in which sertoli cells as well as a part of the spermatogonia were confirmed to be lacZ-positive, in accordance with the known localization of ERbeta expression in the testis. The present study suggests that a 2.2 kbp of the 5'f region of the ERbeta gene is able to direct testis-specific expression, but is not itself sufficient to determine the expression in other organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nariaki Fujimoto
- Department of Developmental Biology, Research Institute for Radiation Biology and Medicine (RIRBM), Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan.
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Merlet J, Racine C, Moreau E, Moreno SG, Habert R. Male fetal germ cells are targets for androgens that physiologically inhibit their proliferation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2007; 104:3615-20. [PMID: 17360691 PMCID: PMC1805536 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0611421104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In adulthood, the action of androgens on seminiferous tubules is essential for full quantitatively normal spermatogenesis and fertility. In contrast, their role in the fetal testis, and particularly in fetal germ cell development, remains largely unknown. Using testicular feminized (Tfm) mice, we investigated the effects of a lack of functional androgen receptor (AR) on fetal germ cells, also named gonocytes. We demonstrated that endogenous androgens/AR physiologically control normal gonocyte proliferation. We observed an increase in the number of gonocytes at 17.5 days postconception resulting from an increase in proliferative activity in Tfm mice. In a reciprocal manner, gonocyte proliferation is decreased by the addition of DHT in fetal testis organotypic culture. Furthermore, the AR coregulator Hsp90alpha (mRNA and protein) specifically expressed in gonocytes was down-regulated in Tfm mice at 15.5 days postconception. To investigate whether these effects could result from direct action of androgens on gonocytes, we collected pure gonocyte preparations and detected AR transcripts therein. We used an original model harboring a reporter gene that specifically reflects AR activity by androgens and clearly demonstrated the presence of a functional AR protein in fetal germ cells. These data provide in vivo and in vitro evidence of a new control of endogenous androgens on gonocytes identified as direct target cells for androgens. Finally, our results focus on a new pathway in the fetal testis during the embryonic period, which is the most sensitive to antiandrogenic endocrine disruptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Merlet
- Laboratory of Differentiation and Radiobiology of the Gonads, Unit of Gametogenesis and Genotoxicity, Unité Mixte de Recherche-S 566, Université Denis Diderot Paris 7 and Commissariat à l'Énergie Atomique, Institut de Radiobiologie Cellulaire et Moléculaire, and Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité 566, F-92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Chrystèle Racine
- Laboratory of Differentiation and Radiobiology of the Gonads, Unit of Gametogenesis and Genotoxicity, Unité Mixte de Recherche-S 566, Université Denis Diderot Paris 7 and Commissariat à l'Énergie Atomique, Institut de Radiobiologie Cellulaire et Moléculaire, and Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité 566, F-92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
- *To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
| | - Evelyne Moreau
- Laboratory of Differentiation and Radiobiology of the Gonads, Unit of Gametogenesis and Genotoxicity, Unité Mixte de Recherche-S 566, Université Denis Diderot Paris 7 and Commissariat à l'Énergie Atomique, Institut de Radiobiologie Cellulaire et Moléculaire, and Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité 566, F-92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Stéphanie G. Moreno
- Laboratory of Differentiation and Radiobiology of the Gonads, Unit of Gametogenesis and Genotoxicity, Unité Mixte de Recherche-S 566, Université Denis Diderot Paris 7 and Commissariat à l'Énergie Atomique, Institut de Radiobiologie Cellulaire et Moléculaire, and Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité 566, F-92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - René Habert
- Laboratory of Differentiation and Radiobiology of the Gonads, Unit of Gametogenesis and Genotoxicity, Unité Mixte de Recherche-S 566, Université Denis Diderot Paris 7 and Commissariat à l'Énergie Atomique, Institut de Radiobiologie Cellulaire et Moléculaire, and Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité 566, F-92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
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Picciarelli-Lima P, Oliveira AG, Reis AM, Kalapothakis E, Mahecha GAB, Hess RA, Oliveira CA. Effects of 3-beta-diol, an androgen metabolite with intrinsic estrogen-like effects, in modulating the aquaporin-9 expression in the rat efferent ductules. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2006; 4:51. [PMID: 17026757 PMCID: PMC1615873 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-4-51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2006] [Accepted: 10/06/2006] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fluid homeostasis is critical for normal function of the male reproductive tract and aquaporins (AQP) play an important role in maintenance of this water and ion balance. Several AQPs have been identified in the male, but their regulation is not fully comprehended. Hormonal regulation of AQPs appears to be dependent on the steroid in the reproductive tract region. AQP9 displays unique hormonal regulation in the efferent ductules and epididymis, as it is regulated by both estrogen and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the efferent ductules, but only by DHT in the initial segment epididymis. Recent data have shown that a metabolite of DHT, 5-alpha-androstane-3-beta-17-beta-diol (3-beta-diol), once considered inactive, is also present in high concentrations in the male and indeed has biological activity. 3-beta-diol does not bind to the androgen receptor, but rather to estrogen receptors ER-alpha and ER-beta, with higher affinity for ER-beta. The existence of this estrogenic DHT metabolite has raised the possibility that estradiol may not be the only estrogen to play a major role in the male reproductive system. Considering that both ER-alpha and ER-beta are highly expressed in efferent ductules, we hypothesized that the DHT regulation of AQP9 could be due to the 3-beta-diol metabolite. METHODS To test this hypothesis, adult male rats were submitted to surgical castration followed by estradiol, DHT or 3-beta-diol replacement. Changes in AQP9 expression in the efferent ductules were investigated by using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting assay. RESULTS Data show that, after castration, AQP9 expression was significantly reduced in the efferent ductules. 3-beta-diol injections restored AQP9 expression, similar to DHT and estradiol. The results were confirmed by Western blotting assay. CONCLUSION This is the first evidence that 3-beta-diol has biological activity in the male reproductive tract and that this androgen metabolite has estrogen-like activity in the efferent ductules, whose major function is the reabsorption of luminal fluid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Picciarelli-Lima
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Cx. Postal 486, CEP 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - André G Oliveira
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Cx. Postal 486, CEP 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Adelina M Reis
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Cx. Postal 486, CEP 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Evanguedes Kalapothakis
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Cx. Postal 486, CEP 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Germán AB Mahecha
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Cx. Postal 486, CEP 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rex A Hess
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Cleida A Oliveira
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Cx. Postal 486, CEP 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Abstract
Levels of estrogen within the male reproductive tract are higher than in the general circulation and the aromatase enzyme is expressed in the adult testis. Estrogens such as estradiol (E2) modify cell function by binding to high-affinity estrogen receptors (ER). Two subtypes (ERalpha and ERbeta) have been identified. Studies in animals have shown that over- or underexposure to estrogens can have an impact on testis function. For example, mice with targeted disruption of the aromatase cyp19 gene become infertile because round spermatids fail to differentiate normally. In rodents, ERalpha is expressed in Leydig cells; ERalpha mRNA and protein are not detectable in testes from humans or primates. High levels of expression of ERalpha occur in the efferent ductules in rodents, primates, and the human. ERbeta protein has been immunolocalized to all somatic cells and to some germ cells in these same species. Messenger RNAs for splice variant isoforms of human ERbeta are expressed in human testes. Homologues of the ERbeta2 variant have been cloned from primates; this isoform does not exist in rodents and does not bind E2. Full-length ERbeta protein (ERbeta1) and ERbeta2 have differential patterns of expression in human testes. In conclusion, although estrogens are synthesized in the testis and it has been suggested that E2 may function as a germ cell survival factor, the mechanisms by which estrogens influence male fertility remain uncertain and rodents may be poor models in which to examine this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayne E Sierens
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, Scotland, UK
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