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de Barros JW, Joule Pierre K, Kempinas WDG, Tremblay JJ. Ethylene dimethanesulfonate effects on gene promoter activities related to the endocrine function of immortalized Leydig cell lines R2C and MA-10. Curr Res Toxicol 2023; 6:100147. [PMID: 38234696 PMCID: PMC10792691 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2023.100147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Ethylene dimethanesulfonate (EDS) is a molecule with known selective cytotoxicity on adult Leydig cells. A single intraperitoneal injection in rats but not mice, leads to male androgen deprivation and infertility. In vitro studies using rat and mouse immortalized Leydig cell lines, showed similar effects of cell death promoted by EDS in rat cells as seen in vivo, and suggest that EDS affects gene transcription, which could firstly compromise steroidogenesis before the apoptosis process. Using gene reporter assay, this study aimed to investigate EDS effects on the promoter activity of genes important for endocrine function (Star, Insl3) and response to toxic agents (Gsta3) in immortalized Leydig cell lines (rat R2C and mouse MA-10 cells), as well as identify possible EDS-responsive elements in the Star gene promoter. EDS exposure of R2C and MA-10 Leydig cells increased Gsta3 promoter activity after 4 h of treatment and decreased Insl3 promoter activity only in R2C cells after 24 h of treatment. EDS also decreased Star promoter activity in both Leydig cell lines. Using R2C cells, the EDS-responsive region in the Star promoter was located between -400 and -195 bp. This suggests that this region and the associated transcription factors, which include MEF2, might be targeted by EDS. Additional somatic gonadal cell lines expressing Star were used and EDS did not affect Star promoter activity in DC3 granulosa cells while Star promoter activity was increased in MSC-1 Sertoli cells after 24 h of treatment. This study contributes to the knowledge regarding the mechanism of EDS action in Leydig cells, and in other gonadal cell lineages, and brings new light regarding the rats and mice differential susceptibility to EDS effects, in addition to providing new avenues for experimental approaches to better understand Leydig cell function and dynamics in different rodent species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge W.F. de Barros
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec – Université Laval, Québec City, Canada
| | - Kenley Joule Pierre
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec – Université Laval, Québec City, Canada
| | - Wilma De G. Kempinas
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Jacques J. Tremblay
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec – Université Laval, Québec City, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Research in Reproduction, Development and Intergenerational Health, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada
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Curi TZ, Passoni MT, Lima Tolouei SE, de Araújo Ramos AT, França de Almeira SC, Scinskas ABAF, Romano RM, de Oliveira JM, Spercoski KM, Carvalho Dos Santos A, Dalsenter PR, Koch HM, Martino-Andrade AJ. Reproductive toxicity following in utero and lactational exposure to a human-relevant phthalate mixture in rats. Toxicol Sci 2023; 197:1-15. [PMID: 37788136 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This rodent (Wistar rats) study examined reproductive effects of in utero/lactational exposure to a mixture of 6 antiandrogenic phthalates (PMix): diisobutyl phthalate, di-n-butyl phthalate, diisopentyl phthalate, butylbenzyl phthalate, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, and diisononyl phthalate. The PMix was defined based on exposure data from pregnant women in Brazil. Experimental groups were established by extrapolating the estimated human dose to rats (0.1 mg/kg/day), followed by up to 3 additional doses corresponding to 5, 1000, and 5000 times the starting rat dose: 0 (control), 0.1, 0.5, 100, and 500 mg/kg/day. The fetal experiment assessed gestational exposure effects on fetal gonads, whereas the postnatal experiment evaluated reproductive parameters in males and females after in utero and lactational exposure. Prenatal exposure decreased fetal testicular testosterone production at 0.5 and 500 mg/kg/day. PMix 500 also reduced mRNA expression of steroidogenesis-related genes, upregulated transcript expression of the retinoic acid-degrading enzyme Cyp26b1, and increased multinucleated gonocytes incidence in fetal testes. Postnatal assessment revealed antiandrogenic effects at the highest dose, including reduced anogenital distance, nipple retention, and decreased weight of reproductive organs. Early puberty onset (preputial separation) was observed at the lowest dose in males. In contrast, females did not show significant changes in fetal and adult endpoints. Overall, the PMix recapitulated early and late male rat phthalate syndrome phenotypes at the highest dose, but also induced some subtle changes at lower doses, which warrant confirmation and mechanistic assessments. Our data support the use of epidemiologically defined mixtures for exposure risk assessments over traditional toxicological approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Zauer Curi
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-990, Brazil
| | - Marcella Tapias Passoni
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-990, Brazil
| | - Sara Emilia Lima Tolouei
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-990, Brazil
| | - Anderson Tadeu de Araújo Ramos
- Animal Endocrine and Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-990, Brazil
| | - Samara Christina França de Almeira
- Animal Endocrine and Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-990, Brazil
| | - Anna Beatriz Abreu Ferraz Scinskas
- Animal Endocrine and Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-990, Brazil
| | - Renata Marino Romano
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, State University of Centro-Oeste, Guarapuava, PR 85040-167, Brazil
| | - Jeane Maria de Oliveira
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, State University of Centro-Oeste, Guarapuava, PR 85040-167, Brazil
| | | | - Ariany Carvalho Dos Santos
- Histopathology Laboratory, Department of Health Sciences, Federal University of Grande Dourados (UFGD), Dourados, MS 9804-970, Brazil
| | - Paulo Roberto Dalsenter
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-990, Brazil
| | - Holger Martin Koch
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-University-Bochum (IPA), Bochum 44789, Germany
| | - Anderson Joel Martino-Andrade
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-990, Brazil
- Animal Endocrine and Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-990, Brazil
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A 35-bp Conserved Region Is Crucial for Insl3 Promoter Activity in Mouse MA-10 Leydig Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315060. [PMID: 36499388 PMCID: PMC9738330 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315060] [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: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The peptide hormone insulin-like 3 (INSL3) is produced almost exclusively by Leydig cells of the male gonad. INSL3 has several functions such as fetal testis descent and bone metabolism in adults. Insl3 gene expression in Leydig cells is not hormonally regulated but rather is constitutively expressed. The regulatory region of the Insl3 gene has been described in various species; moreover, functional studies have revealed that the Insl3 promoter is regulated by various transcription factors that include the nuclear receptors AR, NUR77, COUP-TFII, LRH1, and SF1, as well as the Krüppel-like factor KLF6. However, these transcription factors are also found in several tissues that do not express Insl3, indicating that other, yet unidentified factors, must be involved to drive Insl3 expression specifically in Leydig cells. Through a fine functional promoter analysis, we have identified a 35-bp region that is responsible for conferring 70% of the activity of the mouse Insl3 promoter in Leydig cells. All tri- and dinucleotide mutations introduced dramatically reduced Insl3 promoter activity, indicating that the entire 35-bp sequence is required. Nuclear proteins from MA-10 Leydig cells bound specifically to the 35-bp region. The 35-bp sequence contains GC- and GA-rich motifs as well as potential binding elements for members of the CREB, C/EBP, AP1, AP2, and NF-κB families. The Insl3 promoter was indeed activated 2-fold by NF-κB p50 but not by other transcription factors tested. These results help to further define the regulation of Insl3 gene transcription in Leydig cells.
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Adamczewska D, Słowikowska-Hilczer J, Walczak-Jędrzejowska R. The Fate of Leydig Cells in Men with Spermatogenic Failure. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:570. [PMID: 35455061 PMCID: PMC9028943 DOI: 10.3390/life12040570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The steroidogenic cells in the testicle, Leydig cells, located in the interstitial compartment, play a vital role in male reproductive tract development, maintenance of proper spermatogenesis, and overall male reproductive function. Therefore, their dysfunction can lead to all sorts of testicular pathologies. Spermatogenesis failure, manifested as azoospermia, is often associated with defective Leydig cell activity. Spermatogenic failure is the most severe form of male infertility, caused by disorders of the testicular parenchyma or testicular hormone imbalance. This review covers current progress in knowledge on Leydig cells origin, structure, and function, and focuses on recent advances in understanding how Leydig cells contribute to the impairment of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Renata Walczak-Jędrzejowska
- Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, 92-213 Lodz, Poland; (D.A.); (J.S.-H.)
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Emojevwe V, Nwangwa EK, Naiho AO, Oyovwi MO, Ben-Azu B. Toxicological outcome of phthalate exposure on male fertility: Ameliorative impacts of the co-administration of N-acetylcysteine and zinc sulfate in rats. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43043-022-00096-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Reports have shown that humans are consistently exposed to environmental toxicants such as phthalate (PHT) during their daily activities. This results in reproductive dysfunction and infertility-related issues as already noted in human and experimental animals. We therefore designed this study to investigate fertility outcome in phthalate-exposed male rats treated with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) with the view of providing a therapeutic alternative to reproductive toxicity caused by phthalate. The research was done in two phases. In phase 1, thirty-five male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to one of five (n = 7) groups given the following treatments for 21 days: group A was given distilled water as a control, while groups B, C, D, and E were given phthalate (750 mg/kg/day). Animals in groups C to E were also given ZnSO4 (0.5 mg/kg/day), N-acetylcysteine (100 mg/kg/day), and ZnSO4 (0.5 mg/kg/day) + N-acetylcysteine (100 mg/kg/day) in addition to phthalate. In phase 2, animals from groups in phase 1 were mated with females for fecundity testing.
Results
The result shows alteration in testicular and epididymis weight and testis/epididymis ratio, semen parameters, sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction, sperm DNA, serum Zn and Mg, testicular mitochondria apoptosis mechanisms (TNF-α and BCL-2), and testicular Ca2+-ATPase as well as fecundity outcome in the phthalate-treated group. However, ZnSO4 and NAC successfully ameliorated the deleterious effects of phthalate on semen parameters, sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction, serum electrolyte and mitochondria apoptosis mechanisms, and testicular electrogenic Ca2+-ATPase in phthalate-induced male rats with a better outcome in the combined therapy. Pregnancy outcome and litter sizes were also higher in the combined therapy when also compared with the phthalate-treated groups.
Conclusion
According to the result, ZnSO4 and NAC increased fertility outcome in phthalate-treated male rats through enhancement of testicular BCL-2, serum electrolyte, testicular Ca2+ATPase pumps, and cytoprotection.
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Dynamic Expression of the Homeobox Factor PBX1 during Mouse Testis Development. ENDOCRINES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/endocrines3010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the pre-B-cell leukemia transcription factor (PBX) family of homeoproteins are mainly known for their involvement in hematopoietic cell differentiation and in the development of leukemia. The four PBX proteins, PBX1, PBX2, PBX3 and PBX4, belong to the three amino acid loop extension (TALE) superfamily of homeoproteins which are important transcriptional cofactors in several developmental processes involving homeobox (HOX) factors. Mutations in the human PBX1 gene are responsible for cases of gonadal dysgenesis with absence of male sex differentiation while Pbx1 inactivation in the mouse causes a failure in Leydig cell differentiation and function. However, no data is available regarding the expression profile of this transcription factor in the testis. To fill this knowledge gap, we have characterized PBX1 expression during mouse testicular development. Real time PCRs and Western blots confirmed the presence Pbx1 mRNA and PBX1 protein in different Leydig and Sertoli cell lines. The cellular localization of the PBX1 protein was determined by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence on mouse testis sections at different embryonic and postnatal developmental stages. PBX1 was detected in interstitial cells and in peritubular myoid cells from embryonic life until puberty. Most interstitial cells expressing PBX1 do not express the Leydig cell marker CYP17A1, indicating that they are not differentiated and steroidogenically active Leydig cells. In adults, PBX1 was mainly detected in Sertoli cells. The presence of PBX1 in different somatic cell populations during testicular development further supports a direct role for this transcription factor in testis cell differentiation and in male reproductive function.
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Anti-Müllerian hormone, testosterone, and insulin-like peptide 3 as biomarkers of Sertoli and Leydig cell function during deslorelin-induced testicular downregulation in the dog. Theriogenology 2021; 175:100-110. [PMID: 34534687 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The role of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) in male infertility is not fully understood. We used the downregulated testis as a model of gonadotropin-dependent infertility. Serum testosterone and AMH concentrations were studied in five adult male Beagles implanted (day 0) with 4.7 mg deslorelin (Suprelorin®, Virbac) (DES group). Testicular expression of LH receptor (LHR) and androgen receptor (AR), AMH, type 2 AMH receptor (AMHR2), INSL3 and its receptor (RXFP2) was evaluated 112 days (16 weeks) after deslorelin treatment by qPCR and immunohistochemistry, and compared to untreated adult (CON, n = 6) and prepubertal (PRE, n = 8) dogs. Serum testosterone concentration decreased significantly by the onset of aspermia on study day 14 (four dogs) or day 21 (one dog), and was baseline on day 105 (week 15). In contrast, serum AMH started to increase only after the onset of aspermia and reached the maximum detectable concentration of the assay by day 49-105 in individual dogs. Testicular LHR gene expression in DES was lower than in CON and PRE (P < 0.0001), while AR gene expression in DES was similar to CON and significantly higher than PRE (P < 0.0001). Testicular AMH expression in DES was intermediate compared to the lowest mRNA levels found in CON and the highest in PRE (P ≤ 0.006). AMHR2 gene expression was similar between groups. AMH protein was detected in Sertoli cells only, while AMHR2 immunoreactivity was principally detected in Leydig cells which appeared to be increased in DES. INSL3 and RXFP2 gene expression was significantly downregulated in the DES testis along with noticeably weak Leydig cell immunosignals compared to CON. In conclusion, deslorelin treatment caused testicular LH insensitivity without affecting androgen sensitivity, and de-differentiation of Sertoli and Leydig cells. In DES, upregulation of the AMH-AMHR2 feed-back loop and downregulation of the INSL3-RXFP2 feed-forward loop are paracrine-autocrine mechanisms that may additionally regulate testosterone production independent of gonadotropins. Our results support AMH and INSL3 as unique biomarkers and paracrine-autocrine regulators of testis function involved in the intimate interplay between Sertoli and Leydig cells.
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Prichystalova R, Caron-Beaudoin E, Richardson L, Dirkx E, Amadou A, Zavodna T, Cihak R, Cogliano V, Hynes J, Pelland-St-Pierre L, Verner MA, van Tongeren M, Ho V. An approach to classifying occupational exposures to endocrine disrupting chemicals by sex hormone function using an expert judgment process. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2021; 31:753-768. [PMID: 32704083 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-020-0253-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous substances that interfere with the endocrine system and cause adverse effects. We aimed to classify the effects of 24 known EDCs, prevalent in certain occupations, according to four modes of action (estrogenic, antiestrogenic, androgenic, and/or antiandrogenic). A literature search, stratified into four types of literature was conducted (namely: national and international agency reports; review articles; primary studies; ToxCastTM). The state of the evidence of each EDC on sex hormone function was summarized and reviewed by an expert panel. For each mode of action, the experts evaluated the likelihood of endocrine disruption in five categories: "No", "Unlikely", "Possibly", "Probably", and "Yes". Seven agents were categorized as "Yes," or having strong evidence for their effects on sex hormone function (antiandrogenic: lead, arsenic, butylbenzyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, dicyclohexyl phthalate; estrogenic: nonylphenol, bisphenol A). Nine agents were categorized as "Probable," or having probable evidence (antiandrogenic: bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, nonylphenol, toluene, bisphenol A, diisononyl phthalate; androgenic: cadmium; estrogenic: copper, cadmium and; anti-estrogenic: lead). Two agents (arsenic, polychlorinated biphenyls) had opposing conclusions supporting both "probably" estrogenic and antiestrogenic effects. This synthesis will allow researchers to evaluate the health effects of selected EDCs with an added level of precision related to the mode of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Prichystalova
- Faculty of Safety Engineering, Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - E Caron-Beaudoin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - L Richardson
- Centre de recherche du CHUM (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - E Dirkx
- Centre de recherche du CHUM (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - A Amadou
- Département Prévention Cancer Environnement, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
- Inserm UA 08 Radiations: Défense, Santé, Environement, Lyon, France
| | - T Zavodna
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the CAS, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - R Cihak
- Výzkumný ústav organických syntéz a.s., Centre for Ecology, Toxicology and Analytics, Rybitví, Czech Republic
| | - V Cogliano
- National Center for Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, USA
| | - J Hynes
- JH Tox Consulting, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - L Pelland-St-Pierre
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - M A Verner
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche en santé publique (CReSP), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - M van Tongeren
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research & Primary Care, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - V Ho
- Centre de recherche du CHUM (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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Aldahhan RA, Stanton PG, Ludlow H, de Kretser DM, Hedger MP. Experimental Cryptorchidism Causes Chronic Inflammation and a Progressive Decline in Sertoli Cell and Leydig Cell Function in the Adult Rat Testis. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:2916-2928. [PMID: 34008157 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00616-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cryptorchidism causes spermatogenic failure and reduced serum androgen levels, as well as testicular oedema and fibrosis, which are hallmarks of inflammation. However, the role of inflammation and the effects of cryptorchidism on Sertoli cell and Leydig cell function at the molecular level remain ill-defined. Bilateral cryptorchidism was surgically induced in adult rats for 7 and 14 weeks. Testis weights decreased to 40% of normal within 7 weeks, due to loss of all developing spermatogenic cells except spermatogonia, but did not decrease further at 14 weeks. Serum FSH and LH were increased at both time points, consistent with a loss of feedback by inhibin and testosterone. This damage was accompanied by progressive accumulation of interstitial fluid and peritubular fibrosis, and a progressive decline of several critical Sertoli cell genes (Sox9, Inha (inhbin α-subunit), Cldn11 (claudin 11), Gja1 (connexin 43), and Il1a (interleukin-1α)) and the Leydig cell steroidogenic enzymes, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, and Hs17b3. Activin B and the activin-binding protein, follistatin, also declined, but the intratesticular concentration of activin A, which is a regulator of inflammatory responses, was largely unaffected at either time point. Expression of genes involved in inflammation (Tnf, Il10, Il1b, Mcp1) and fibrosis (Acta2, Col1a1) were considerably elevated at both time points. These data indicate that induction of experimental cryptorchidism, which causes complete failure of spermatogenesis in the adult rat, also induces chronic testicular inflammation, manifesting in oedema and fibrosis, and a progressive decline of Sertoli and Leydig cell gene expression and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashid A Aldahhan
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia. .,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia. .,Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 2114, Dammam, 31541, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Peter G Stanton
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - David M de Kretser
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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10
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Walker C, Garza S, Papadopoulos V, Culty M. Impact of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on steroidogenesis and consequences on testicular function. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 527:111215. [PMID: 33657436 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Testicular steroidogenesis is a tightly regulated process that produces the androgens important for the development, maintenance and function of the male reproductive system. These androgens are also essential for overall health, and well-being. Disruptions in the ability of the testis to form steroids can result in developmental abnormalities, dysfunction, and infertility. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can interfere with the intricate signaling and metabolizing networks that produce androgens and promote their dysfunction. These chemicals are found ubiquitously in our environment, as they are integral components of products that are used every day. The effects of EDCs, such as bisphenols, phthalates, and alkyl chemicals, have been studied independently, revealing deleterious effects; but the combined influence of these structures on steroidogenesis has yet to be completely elucidated. This manuscript presents an updated review on EDC mixtures and their impact on testicular function and fertility, highlighting new findings that illustrate the anti-androgenic capabilities of EDC mixtures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casandra Walker
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Samuel Garza
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Vassilios Papadopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Martine Culty
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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11
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Li X, Zhu Q, Wen Z, Yuan K, Su Z, Wang Y, Zhong Y, Ge RS. Androgen and Luteinizing Hormone Stimulate the Function of Rat Immature Leydig Cells Through Different Transcription Signals. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:599149. [PMID: 33815270 PMCID: PMC8011569 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.599149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The function of immature Leydig cells is regulated by hormones, such as androgen and luteinizing hormone (LH). However, the regulation of this process is still unclear. The objective of this study was to determine whether luteinizing hormone (LH) or androgens contribute to this process. Immature Leydig cells were purified from 35-day-old male Sprague Dawley rats and cultured with LH (1 ng/ml) or androgen (7α-methyl-19- nortestosterone, MENT, 100 nM) for 2 days. LH or MENT treatment significantly increased the androgens produced by immature Leydig cells in rats. Microarray and qPCR and enzymatic tests showed that LH up-regulated the expression of Scarb1, Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, and Srd5a1 while down-regulated the expression of Sult2a1 and Akr1c14. On the contrary, the expression of Cyp17a1 was up-regulated by MENT. LH and MENT regulate Leydig cell function through different sets of transcription factors. We conclude that LH and androgens participate in the regulation of rat immature Leydig cell function through different transcriptional pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoheng Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qiqi Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zina Wen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Andrology, Chengdu Xi’nan Gynecological Hospital, Sichuan, China
| | - Kaimin Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhijian Su
- Department of Cell Biology & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ying Zhong
- Department of Andrology, Chengdu Xi’nan Gynecological Hospital, Sichuan, China
- *Correspondence: Ren-Shan Ge, ; Ying Zhong,
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ren-Shan Ge, ; Ying Zhong,
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12
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Aldahhan RA, Stanton PG, Ludlow H, de Kretser DM, Hedger MP. Acute heat-treatment disrupts inhibin-related protein production and gene expression in the adult rat testis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 498:110546. [PMID: 31422101 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Heat reversibly disrupts spermatogenesis, but the effects on Sertoli cell (SC) function and inhibin/activin-related proteins are less well-defined. Adult rat testis weights decreased by 40% within 2 weeks after heat-treatment (43 °C, 15 min), due to loss of pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. Coincident effects were reduced SC nuclear volume at one week and >50% reduction in expression of several critical SC genes (Inha, Cld11, Gja1, Tjp1, Cldn3) by 2 weeks. Leydig cell steroidogenic enzymes, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, were also reduced. Activin gene expression was unaffected at this time, but expression of the activin-binding protein, follistatin (Fst), increased >2-fold. At 4-8 weeks, coincident with the recovery of spermatocytes and early spermatids, but progressive loss of elongated spermatids, most SC genes had recovered; however, testicular activin A was reduced and activin B increased. At 8 weeks, serum inhibin was decreased and, consequently, serum FSH increased. Crucially, germ cell damage was not associated with a significant inflammatory response. At 14 weeks, most testicular parameters had returned to normal, but testis weights remained slightly reduced. These data indicate that, following acute heat-treatment, expression of several key Sertoli and Leydig cell genes declined in parallel with the initial loss of meiotic germ cells, whereas activins were responsive to the subsequent loss of mature spermatids, leading to an increase in testicular activin B production relative to activin A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashid A Aldahhan
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Peter G Stanton
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - David M de Kretser
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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13
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Strong ME, Burd MA, Peterson DG. Evaluation of the MA-10 cell line as a model of insl3 regulation and Leydig cell function. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 208:106116. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.106116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 03/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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14
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Curi TZ, Neubert da Silva G, Passoni MT, Lima Tolouei SE, Meldola H, Romano RM, Grechi N, Dalsenter PR, Martino-Andrade AJ. In utero and lactational exposure to diisopentyl phthalate (DiPeP) induces fetal toxicity and antiandrogenic effects in rats. Toxicol Sci 2019; 171:347-358. [PMID: 31368500 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfz159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A previous study has demonstrated exposure of Brazilian pregnant women to Diisopentyl phthalate (DiPeP), which reduces fetal rat testosterone production in a dose-responsive manner. In this study we examined gene expression of steroidogenic proteins in rat fetal testes and investigated the effects of in utero and lactational DiPeP exposure on male rat reproductive development and function. For the prenatal experiment, we orally exposed pregnant Wistar rats to DiPeP or Di-n-butyl phthalate (reference phthalate) at 0, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg/day from gestation day 14-18 and the fetal testis was evaluated for transcript expression of Star, Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, Cyp19a1, Insl3, Ar, Esr1, Esr2 and Gper1 by RT-q PCR. DiPeP lowered mRNA levels of key steroidogenic proteins, lending support to the previously reported reductions in fetal testosterone production. DiPeP also lowered fetal testis transcript levels of Insl3 and changed gene expression of some steroid hormones receptors. Signs of fetal toxicity were observed at the highest dose. For the postnatal experiment pregnant rats were exposed orally to vehicle (canola oil) and four DiPeP doses (1, 10, 100 and 300 mg/kg/day) between gestation day 10 and post-natal day 21. DiPeP induced a range of reproductive and antiandrogenic effects that are typical of the rat phthalate syndrome, including reduced anogenital distance at the highest dose, reduced weight of seminal vesicles at 10 mg/kg/day and above, and testicular morphological and functional changes. Together, our results indicate that DiPeP, a compound relevant to the human exposure scenario, is one of the most active antiandrogenic phthalates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Zauer Curi
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-980, Brazil
- Animal Endocrine and Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-980, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Neubert da Silva
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-980, Brazil
- Animal Endocrine and Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-980, Brazil
| | - Marcella Tapias Passoni
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-980, Brazil
| | - Sara Emilia Lima Tolouei
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-980, Brazil
| | - Heloísa Meldola
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-980, Brazil
| | - Renata Marino Romano
- Laboratory of Reproductive Toxicology, Department of Pharmacy, State University of Centro-Oeste, Guarapuava, PR 85040-080, Brazil
| | - Nicole Grechi
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-980, Brazil
| | - Paulo Roberto Dalsenter
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-980, Brazil
| | - Anderson Joel Martino-Andrade
- Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-980, Brazil
- Animal Endocrine and Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR 81531-980, Brazil
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15
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Chang WH, Tsai YS, Wang JY, Chen HL, Yang WH, Lee CC. Sex hormones and oxidative stress mediated phthalate-induced effects in prostatic enlargement. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 126:184-192. [PMID: 30798199 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Prostatic enlargement might affect up to 30% of men and can cause signs and symptoms in the lower urinary tract in the elderly. Imbalanced estrogen and androgen secretions are important in prostatic physiopathology. Phthalates-environmental endocrine disruptors-affect androgen secretion and disrupt sexual organs, including testes and the prostate, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Using European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines, we recruited from urology clinics in southern Taiwan 207 elderly men diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatic enlargement between 2015 and 2017. We took blood and urine samples from all patients on the same day. We used multivariate linear regression, associations, and potential interactions after we had measured and analyzed oxidative stress (OS) markers, steroidal hormones, and 11 urinary phthalate metabolites, and then we adjusted for confounders. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) metabolite levels, particularly urinary mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, were positively associated with androgen, estrogen, hormone ratios, inducible nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS), 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), prostate specific antigen (PSA), and prostate volume (PV) (p < 0.05). PV and PSA were positively associated with androgen, estrogen, hormone ratios and OS markers (p < 0.05). The estimated percentages of exposure to phthalates in prostatic enlargement mediated by androgen, estrogen, and OS markers ranged from 3.5% to 63.1%. Exposure to DEHP promoted the progress of BPH by increasing dihydrotestosterone (DHT), estradiol (E2), the converted enzymes aromatase and 5α reductase, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) (8-OHdG and iNOS) production. Sex hormones and OS might be important hyperplasia-promoters after a patient has been exposed to phthalates, especially to DEHP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Hsiang Chang
- Research Center of Environmental Trace Toxic Substance, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yuh-Shyan Tsai
- Department of Urology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Yu Wang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Ling Chen
- Research Center of Environmental Trace Toxic Substance, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan; Department of Food Safety/Hygiene and Risk Management, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Horng Yang
- Department of Urology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chang Lee
- Research Center of Environmental Trace Toxic Substance, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan; Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
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16
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O'Shaughnessy PJ, Mitchell RT, Monteiro A, O'Hara L, Cruickshanks L, der Grinten HCV, Brown P, Abel M, Smith LB. Androgen receptor expression is required to ensure development of adult Leydig cells and to prevent development of steroidogenic cells with adrenal characteristics in the mouse testis. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2019; 19:8. [PMID: 30995907 PMCID: PMC6472051 DOI: 10.1186/s12861-019-0189-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background The interstitium of the mouse testis contains Leydig cells and a small number of steroidogenic cells with adrenal characteristics which may be derived from the fetal adrenal during development or may be a normal subset of the developing fetal Leydig cells. Currently it is not known what regulates development and/or proliferation of this sub-population of steroidogenic cells in the mouse testis. Androgen receptors (AR) are essential for normal testicular function and in this study we have examined the role of the AR in regulating interstitial cell development. Results Using a mouse model which lacks gonadotropins and AR (hpg.ARKO), stimulation of luteinising hormone receptors in vivo with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) caused a marked increase in adrenal cell transcripts/protein in a group of testicular interstitial cells. hCG also induced testicular transcripts associated with basic steroidogenic function in these mice but had no effect on adult Leydig cell-specific transcript levels. In hpg mice with functional AR, treatment with hCG induced Leydig cell-specific function and had no effect on adrenal transcript levels. Examination of mice with cell-specific AR deletion and knockdown of AR in a mouse Leydig cell line suggests that AR in the Leydig cells are likely to regulate these effects. Conclusions This study shows that in the mouse the androgen receptor is required both to prevent development of testicular cells with adrenal characteristics and to ensure development of an adult Leydig cell phenotype. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12861-019-0189-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J O'Shaughnessy
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, G61 1QH, Glasgow, UK.
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Ana Monteiro
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, G61 1QH, Glasgow, UK
| | - Laura O'Hara
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK.,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Lyndsey Cruickshanks
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Hedi Claahsen-van der Grinten
- Department of Paediatrics, Radboud Amalia Children's Hospital, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Pamela Brown
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Margaret Abel
- Department of Human Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, South Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3QX, UK
| | - Lee B Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK.,School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
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17
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INSL3 Expression in Leydig Cell Hyperplasia and Leydig Cell Tumors. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2019; 27:203-209. [DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000000567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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18
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Sansone A, Kliesch S, Isidori AM, Schlatt S. AMH and INSL3 in testicular and extragonadal pathophysiology: what do we know? Andrology 2019; 7:131-138. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Sansone
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology Münster Germany
- Department of Experimental Medicine Section of Medical Pathophysiology Food Science and Endocrinology – Sapienza University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - S. Kliesch
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology Münster Germany
| | - A. M. Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine Section of Medical Pathophysiology Food Science and Endocrinology – Sapienza University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - S. Schlatt
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology Münster Germany
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19
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Özdamar MY, Şahin S, Zengin K, Seçkin S, Gürdal M. Detection of insulin-like growth factor receptor-1 in the human cremaster muscle and its role in the etiology of the undescended testis. Asian J Surg 2019; 42:290-296. [DOI: 10.1016/j.asjsur.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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20
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Höllerer C, Becker G, Göen T, Eckert E. Regioselective ester cleavage of di-(2-ethylhexyl) trimellitates by porcine liver esterase. Toxicol In Vitro 2018; 47:178-185. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2017.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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21
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Fénichel P, Chevalier N, Lahlou N, Coquillard P, Wagner-Mahler K, Pugeat M, Panaïa-Ferrari P, Brucker-Davis F. Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals Interfere With Leydig Cell Hormone Pathways During Testicular Descent in Idiopathic Cryptorchidism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:786. [PMID: 30687232 PMCID: PMC6335363 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptorchidism, a frequent genital malformation in male newborn, remains in most cases idiopathic. On the basis of experimental, epidemiological, and clinical data, it has been included in the testicular dysgenesis syndrome and believed to be influenced, together with genetic and anatomic factors, by maternal exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Here, we analyze how EDCs may interfere with the control of testicular descent, which is regulated by two Leydig cell hormones, testosterone, and insulin like peptide 3 (INSL3).
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Fénichel
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital of Nice, Nice, France
- Institut National de la Recherche Médicale, UMR U1065, Université Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
- *Correspondence: Patrick Fénichel
| | - Nicolas Chevalier
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital of Nice, Nice, France
- Institut National de la Recherche Médicale, UMR U1065, Université Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
| | - Najiba Lahlou
- Department of Hormonology and Metabolic Disorders, Hôpital Cochin, APHP, Paris-Descartes University, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Michel Pugeat
- Institut National de la Recherche Médicale, U1060 CaRMen, Fédération d'Endocrinologie, Hospices Civils de Lyon-1, Bron, France
| | | | - Françoise Brucker-Davis
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital of Nice, Nice, France
- Institut National de la Recherche Médicale, UMR U1065, Université Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
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22
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Dai Y, Ivell R, Anand-Ivell R. Theca Cell INSL3 and Steroids Together Orchestrate the Growing Bovine Antral Follicle. Front Physiol 2017; 8:1033. [PMID: 29311967 PMCID: PMC5732917 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.01033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) and its specific receptor RXFP2 are both expressed by theca interna cells of the growing antral follicle where they form an essential regulatory element in the production of the steroid precursor androstenedione. Using primary cultures of bovine theca cells from the mid follicular phase together with steroid agonists and antagonists we have examined how ovarian steroids modulate INSL3 expression. Transcript analysis shows that these cells express estrogen receptors α and β, androgen and progesterone receptors, besides the orphan nuclear receptors SF1 and nur77. Whereas, exogenous androgens have little or no effect, the androgen antagonist bicalutamide stimulates INSL3 production. In contrast, estrogen receptor agonists, as also progesterone, are stimulatory. Importantly, estrogen receptor signaling is convergent with the protein kinase A signaling pathway activated by LH, such that the estrogen receptor antagonist can inhibit the mild stimulatory effect of LH, and vice versa the PKA antagonist H89 blocks stimulation by estradiol. A significant finding is that the major steroid metabolite androstenedione appears to act predominantly as an estrogen and not an androgen in this system. Transfection of INSL3 gene promoter-reporter constructs together with various steroid receptor expression plasmids supports these findings and shows that steroid action uses non-classical pathways not requiring canonical steroid-responsive elements in the proximal promoter region. Together, the results indicate that increasing estrogens in the follicular phase stimulate a feedforward loop driving INSL3 signaling and thereby promoting steroidogenesis in the growing antral follicle until the LH surge which effectively switches off INSL3 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanzhenzi Dai
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Ivell
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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23
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Garon G, Bergeron F, Brousseau C, Robert NM, Tremblay JJ. FOXA3 Is Expressed in Multiple Cell Lineages in the Mouse Testis and Regulates Pdgfra Expression in Leydig Cells. Endocrinology 2017; 158:1886-1897. [PMID: 28379539 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The three FOXA transcription factors are mainly known for their roles in the liver. However, Foxa3-deficient mice become progressively sub/infertile due to germ cell loss. Because no data were available regarding the localization of the FOXA3 protein in the testis, immunohistochemistry was performed on mouse testis sections. In the fetal testis, a weak but consistent staining for FOXA3 is detected in the nucleus of Sertoli cells. In prepubertal and adult life, FOXA3 remains present in Sertoli cells of some but not all seminiferous tubules. FOXA3 is also detected in the nucleus of some peritubular cells. From postnatal day 20 onward, FOXA3 is strongly expressed in the nucleus of Leydig cells. To identify FOXA3 target genes in Leydig cells, MLTC-1 Leydig cells were transfected with a series of Leydig cell gene reporters in the presence of a FOXA3 expression vector. The platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (Pdgfra) promoter was significantly activated by FOXA3. The Pdgfra promoter contains three potential FOX elements and progressive 5' deletions and site-directed mutagenesis revealed that the most proximal element at -78 bp was sufficient to confer FOXA3 responsiveness. FOXA3 from Leydig cells could bind to this element in vitro (electrophoretic mobility shift assay) and was recruited to the proximal Pdgfra promoter in vivo (chromatin immunoprecipitation). Finally, endogenous Pdgfra messenger RNA levels were reduced in FOXA3-deficient MLTC-1 Leydig cells. Taken together, our data identify FOXA3 as a marker of the Sertoli cell lineage and of the adult Leydig cell population, and as a regulator of Pdgfra transcription in Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Garon
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Francis Bergeron
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Catherine Brousseau
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Nicholas M Robert
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Jacques J Tremblay
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
- Centre for Research in Reproduction, Development, and Intergenerational Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
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24
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Chang WH, Wu MH, Pan HA, Guo PL, Lee CC. Semen quality and insulin-like factor 3: Associations with urinary and seminal levels of phthalate metabolites in adult males. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 173:594-602. [PMID: 28152410 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.01.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Revised: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Certain phthalates have adverse effects on male reproductive functions in animals, and potentially affect human testicular function and spermatogenesis, but little is known about the active mechanisms. We measured the urinary and seminal phthalate metabolites and explored their associations on insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) and semen quality. Urine, blood, and semen samples were collected from the male partners of subfertile (n = 253) and fertile (n = 37) couples in a reproductive center in southern Taiwan. INSL3, reproductive hormones, semen-quality, and 11 phthalate metabolites in urine and semen were measured. There were significant correlations in the distribution pattern of metabolites, such as the relative contribution of low or high molecular weight phthalate metabolites. The significantly monotonic trends in semen volume, sperm concentration and motility were associated with increasing quartiles of INSL3 (all p-trend < 0.001). In adjusted regression models, increases in urinary phthalate metabolites levels were adversely associated with sperm concentration (monobenzyl phthalate [MBzP], mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate [MEHP] and MEHP%), motility (MBzP and MEHP) and INSL3 (MBzP, MEHP and MEHP%) (all p < 0.01). Higher seminal phthalate metabolite levels were associated with decreases in sperm concentration (MEHP and mono-2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl phthalate), motility (mono-ethyl phthalate [MEP] and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate [DEHP] metabolites), normal morphology (MEP), and INSL3 (monomethyl phthalate and MEP) (all p < 0.05). Our data suggest that INSL3 secretion, reproductive hormone balance, and sperm production and quality might be simultaneously adversely affected for individuals excreting increasing levels of phthalates metabolites (especially di-ethyl phthalate, butylbenzyl phthalate, and DEHP) in urine and semen samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Hsiang Chang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan.
| | - Meng-Hsing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan.
| | - Hsien-An Pan
- An-An Women and Children Clinic, 286 Kaiyuan Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan.
| | - Pao-Lin Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan.
| | - Ching-Chang Lee
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan; Research Center of Environmental Trace Toxic Substance, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan.
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Jones S, Boisvert A, Naghi A, Hullin-Matsuda F, Greimel P, Kobayashi T, Papadopoulos V, Culty M. Stimulatory effects of combined endocrine disruptors on MA-10 Leydig cell steroid production and lipid homeostasis. Toxicology 2016; 355-356:21-30. [PMID: 27181934 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2016.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Previous work in our laboratory demonstrated that in-utero exposure to a mixture of the phytoestrogen Genistein (GEN), and plasticizer DEHP, induces short- and long-term alterations in testicular gene and protein expression different from individual exposures. These studies identified fetal and adult Leydig cells as sensitive targets for low dose endocrine disruptor (ED) mixtures. To further investigate the direct effects and mechanisms of toxicity of GEN and DEHP, MA-10 mouse tumor Leydig cells were exposed in-vitro to varying concentrations of GEN and MEHP, the principal bioactive metabolite of DEHP. Combined 10μM GEN+10μM MEHP had a stimulatory effect on basal progesterone production. Consistent with increased androgenicity, the mRNA of steroidogenic and cholesterol mediators Star, Cyp11a, Srb1 and Hsl, as well as upstream orphan nuclear receptors Nr2f2 and Sf1 were all significantly increased uniquely in the mixture treatment group. Insl3, a sensitive marker of Leydig endocrine disruption and cell function, was significantly decreased by combined GEN+MEHP. Lipid analysis by high-performance thin layer chromatography demonstrated the ability of combined 10μM combined GEN+MEHP, but not individual exposures, to increase levels of several neutral lipids and phospholipid classes, indicating a generalized deregulation of lipid homeostasis. Further investigation by qPCR analysis revealed a concomitant increase in cholesterol (Hmgcoa) and phospholipid (Srebp1c, Fasn) mediator mRNAs, suggesting the possible involvement of upstream LXRα agonism. These results suggest a deregulation of MA-10 Leydig function in response to a combination of GEN+MEHP. We propose a working model for GEN+MEHP doses relevant to human exposure involving LXR agonism and activation of other transcription factors. Taken more broadly, this research highlights the importance of assessing the impact of ED mixtures in multiple toxicological models across a range of environmentally relevant doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Jones
- The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Annie Boisvert
- The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Andrada Naghi
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Françoise Hullin-Matsuda
- Lipid Biology Laboratory, RIKEN Institute, Wakoshi, Saitama, Japan; INSERM UMR1060, University Lyon 1, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Peter Greimel
- Lipid Biology Laboratory, RIKEN Institute, Wakoshi, Saitama, Japan
| | | | - Vassilios Papadopoulos
- The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Martine Culty
- The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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26
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Tremblay MA, Mendoza-Villarroel RE, Robert NM, Bergeron F, Tremblay JJ. KLF6 cooperates with NUR77 and SF1 to activate the human INSL3 promoter in mouse MA-10 leydig cells. J Mol Endocrinol 2016; 56:163-73. [PMID: 26874000 DOI: 10.1530/jme-15-0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Insulin-like 3 (INSL3), a Leydig cell-specific hormone, is essential for testis descent during foetal life and bone metabolism in adults. Despite its essential roles in male reproductive and bone health, very little is known regarding its transcriptional regulation in Leydig cells. To date, few transcription factors have been shown to activate INSL3 promoter activity: the nuclear receptors AR, NUR77, COUP-TFII and SF1. To identify additional regulators, we have isolated and performed a detailed analysis of a 1.1 kb human INSL3 promoter fragment. Through 5' progressive deletions and site-directed mutagenesis, we have mapped a 10 bp element responsible for about 80% of INSL3 promoter activity in Leydig cells. This element is identical to the CPE element of the placental-specific glycoprotein-5 (PSG5) promoter that is recognized by the developmental regulator Krüppel-like factor 6 (KLF6). Using PCR and western blotting, we found that KLF6 is expressed in several Leydig and Sertoli cell lines. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry on adult mouse testis revealed the presence of KLF6 in the nuclei of both Leydig and Sertoli cells. KLF6 binds to the 10 bp KLF element at -108 bp and activates the -1.1 kb human, but not the mouse, INSL3 promoter. KLF6-mediated activation of the human INSL3 promoter required an intact KLF element as well as Leydig/Sertoli-enriched factors because KLF6 did not stimulate the human INSL3 promoter activity in CV-1 fibroblast cells. Consistent with this, we found that KLF6 transcriptionally cooperates with NUR77 and SF1. Collectively, our results identify KLF6 as a regulator of human INSL3 transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime A Tremblay
- ReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Raifish E Mendoza-Villarroel
- ReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Nicholas M Robert
- ReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Francis Bergeron
- ReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Jacques J Tremblay
- ReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec, Québec City, Québec, Canada Centre for Research in ReproductionDevelopment and Intergenerational Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
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27
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Chang WH, Li SS, Wu MH, Pan HA, Lee CC. Phthalates might interfere with testicular function by reducing testosterone and insulin-like factor 3 levels. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:2658-70. [PMID: 26385792 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2014] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do phthalates create a male reproductive hormone imbalance by down-regulating the secretion of testosterone and insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3)? SUMMARY ANSWER Our study suggests that exposure to phthalates is related to a reduction in the secretion of testosterone and INSL3 in adult males. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY There is evidence that exposure to phthalates, an abundant group of industrial plasticizers, negatively affects testosterone biosynthesis, but little is known about the mechanism in men. The hypothesis that exposure to phthalates reduces the levels of testosterone and INSL3, a marker of Leydig cell function, is underexplored. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This case-control study of 176 men ran from 2010 to 2012. Infertile men were recruited through infertility clinics in Taiwan, fertile men were recruited from childbirth preparation classes and all were categorized based on the World Health Organization definition of infertility and by the diagnoses of obstetricians. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Urinary concentrations of 11 phthalate metabolites were measured, along with serum levels of FSH, LH, total testosterone (TT), estradiol, sex hormone-binding globulin and Inhibin B. Androgen status indices including free testosterone (fT) and the free androgen index (FAI) were calculated. The circulating INSL3 level was evaluated using a radioimmunoassay. Non-parametric analyses, trend tests and linear regression models were used. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Urinary mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP), mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) and mono-2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl phthalate were significantly higher in infertile than in fertile men. Serum Inhibin B, the Inhibin B : FSH ratio, the TT : LH ratio and INSL3 were significantly lower in infertile men. In multiple regression models controlled for potential confounders, there is an inverse association between urinary levels of mono-methyl phthalate (MMP), mono-iso-butyl phthalate (MiBP), MEHP, MEHP% and serum TT (P = 0.001, 0.007, 0.042 and 0.012, respectively). The inverse associations were also found between urinary levels of MiBP, monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), MEHP, MEHP% and serum fT (P = 0.028, 0.017, 0.045 and 0.027, respectively); between urinary levels of MMP, MEHP, MEHP% and the TT : LH ratio (P = 0.004, 0.029 and 0.039, respectively); between urinary levels of MMP, MiBP, MnBP, MBzP, MEHP and the FAI (P = 0.002, 0.008, 0.037, 0.028, 0.042 and 0.016, respectively). Urinary MBzP and MEHP% were negatively associated with a decrease in serum INSL3 (P = 0.049 and <0.001). We also observed a strong inverse relationship between MEHP% quartiles and serum TT, fT, the TT : LH ratio and INSL3 (Ptrend = 0.003, 0.080, 0.002 and 0.012, respectively). Serum INSL3, TT, fT and the TT : LH ratio were lower for men in the highest MEHP% quartile than in the reference group (P = 0.007, 0.002, 0.090 and 0.001, respectively). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A potential limitation is using a single urine and blood sample to predict urinary phthalate metabolites and reproductive hormone status over long periods. However, there is evidence that a single measure provides a reliable result in population studies. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Non-occupational exposure to phthalates, including di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, might lead to adverse effects on testicular/Leydig cell function and be of concern owing to the ubiquitous multisource exposure to phthalates among the general population. Although our findings are in agreement with recent experimental data, more studies are required to draw firm conclusions on the relation of INSL3 to phthalate exposure or testicular/Leydig cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Hsiang Chang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan
| | - Sih-Syuan Li
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Hsing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-An Pan
- An-An Women and Children Clinic, 286 Kaiyuan Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chang Lee
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan Research Center of Environmental Trace Toxic Substance, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan
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28
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Kumar N, Srivastava S, Roy P. Impact of low molecular weight phthalates in inducing reproductive malfunctions in male mice: Special emphasis on Sertoli cell functions. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2015; 215:36-50. [PMID: 25268316 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2014] [Revised: 08/16/2014] [Accepted: 09/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates are commonly used as plasticizers in a variety of products. Since they have been identified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), effect of phthalates on human health is a major concern. In this study, we evaluated individual as well as combined mixture effects of three low molecular weight phthalates on the reproductive system of male mice, specifically on the Sertoli cell structure and function. In order to analyze the blood testes barrier (BTB) dynamics, primary culture of Sertoli cells from 3-weeks old male mice was used for mimicking typical tight junction structures. Male mice were exposed to long-term (45 days) and combined mixture of three phthalates, diethyl phthalate (DEP), diphenyl phthalate (DPP), and dimethyl isophthalate (DMIP) between pre-pubertal to adult stage. Our data showed significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the rates of transcription of certain prominent Sertoli cell specific genes like transferrin, testin and occludin. Moreover, we also observed significant decreases in the expression of proteins like 3β-HSD, connexin-43 and occludin in testicular lysates of treated animals (p < 0.05). The transmission electron microscopic analysis revealed that the test compounds significantly altered the structural integrity of Sertoli cells. The significant changes of Sertoli cell tight junction structure by test compounds were associated with phosphorylation of ERK. Taken together, our study suggests that low molecular weight phthalates may affect male fertility by altering both structural and functional integrity of Sertoli cells in testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narender Kumar
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247 667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Swati Srivastava
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247 667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Partha Roy
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247 667, Uttarakhand, India.
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29
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Bjelic MM, Stojkov NJ, Radovic SM, Baburski AZ, Janjic MM, Kostic TS, Andric SA. Prolonged in vivo administration of testosterone-enanthate, the widely used and abused anabolic androgenic steroid, disturbs prolactin and cAMP signaling in Leydig cells of adult rats. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 149:58-69. [PMID: 25603467 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Revised: 12/20/2014] [Accepted: 01/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to systematically analyze and define the effects of 1-day, 2-weeks, 10-weeks intramuscular administration of testosterone-enanthate, widely used and abused anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS), on main regulators of steroidogenesis and steroidogenic genes expression in testosterone-producing Leydig cells of adult rats. The results showed that prolonged (10-weeks) intramuscular administration of testosterone-enanthate, in clinically relevant dose, significantly increased prolactin, but decreased Prlr2 and Gnrhr in pituitary of adult rat. The levels of testosterone, Insl3, cAMP and mitochondrial membrane potential of Leydig cells were significantly reduced. This was followed by decreased expression of some steroidogenic enzymes and regulatory proteins such as Lhcgr, Prlr1/2, Tspo, Star, Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, Dax1. Oppositely, Hsd3b1/2, Hsd3b5, Hsd17b4, Ar, Arr19 increased. In the same cells, transcriptional milieu of cAMP signaling elements was disturbed with remarkable up-regulation of PRKA (the main regulator of steroidogenesis). Increased prolactin together with stimulated transcription of Jak2/Jak3 could account for increased Hsd3b1/2 and Hsd3b5 in Leydig cells following 10-weeks in vivo treatment with testosterone-enanthate. In vitro studies revealed that testosterone is capable to increase level of Prlr1, Prlr2, Hsd3b1/2, Hsd3b5 in Leydig cells. Accordingly, testosterone-induced changes in prolactin receptor signaling together with up-regulation of PRKA, Hsd3b1/2, Hsd3b5, Ar in Leydig cells, could be the possible mechanism that contribute to the establishment of a new adaptive response to maintain homeostasis and prevent loss of steroidogenic function. Presented data provide new molecular insights into the relationship between disturbed testosterone homeostasis and mammalian reproduction and are important in terms of wide use and abuse of AASs and human reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja M Bjelic
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Natasa J Stojkov
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Sava M Radovic
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Aleksandar Z Baburski
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Marija M Janjic
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Tatjana S Kostic
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Silvana A Andric
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia.
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Fong JP, Lee FJ, Lu IS, Uang SN, Lee CC. Relationship between urinary concentrations of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) metabolites and reproductive hormones in polyvinyl chloride production workers. Occup Environ Med 2015; 72:346-53. [DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2014-102532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 01/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Chevalier N, Brucker-Davis F, Lahlou N, Coquillard P, Pugeat M, Pacini P, Panaïa-Ferrari P, Wagner-Mahler K, Fénichel P. A negative correlation between insulin-like peptide 3 and bisphenol A in human cord blood suggests an effect of endocrine disruptors on testicular descent during fetal development. Hum Reprod 2014; 30:447-53. [PMID: 25527819 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does a relationship exist between insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) and selected environmental endocrine disruptors (EEDs) in human cord blood (cb)? SUMMARY ANSWER In the whole population (cryptorchid and control boys) cbINSL3 correlated negatively with cb free bisphenol A (BPA) providing indirect evidence for an impact of EEDs on fetal Leydig cell INSL3 production. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY INSL3 is a major regulator of testicular descent. This hormone has been shown to be decreased in cord blood from boys with idiopathic cryptorchidism, the most frequent male malformation. Fetal exposure to several EEDs has been suspected to be involved in the occurrence of idiopathic cryptorchidism. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Correlations between cb INSL3 or testosterone and cb free bioactive BPA and maternal milk polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB153), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), and monobutyl phthalate (mBP) were assessed in newborn boys in a prospective case-control study. All boys (n = 6246) born after 34 weeks of gestation were systematically screened at birth for cryptorchidism over a 3-year period (2002-2005), and a diagnosis of cryptorchidism confirmed by a senior paediatrician. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We studied 52 cryptorchid (26 transient, 26 persistent) and 128 control boys born at two hospitals in southern France. INSL3 was assayed in CB by a modified validated enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Testosterone was measured in CB after diethyl-ether extraction by means of ultra-pressure liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Free cbBPA was measured after an extraction step with a radioimmunoassay validated after comparison of values obtained by high-pressure liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The xenobiotic analysis in mothers' milk was performed after fat extraction by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE EED concentrations were not increased in the cryptorchid versus control group although a trend for increased mBP (P = 0.09) was observed. In the whole study population, cb levels of BPA correlated negatively with INSL3 (P = 0.01; R² = 0.05) but not with testosterone. No other EED correlated with INSL3 or with testosterone. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The levels of BPA and INSL3 in cb may not reflect chronic fetal exposure to EEDs. The deleterious impact of EEDs on fetal testicular descent during specific windows of development has yet to be demonstrated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The negative correlation between cb free BPA and INSL3 provides indirect evidence for an impact of EEDs on human fetal Leydig cell INSL3 production and points to cbINSL3 as a possible target of EED action during fetal testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Chevalier
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Reproductive Medicine, CHU Nice, Nice, France Institut National de la Recherche Médicale, UMR U1065, Université Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
| | - Françoise Brucker-Davis
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Reproductive Medicine, CHU Nice, Nice, France Institut National de la Recherche Médicale, UMR U1065, Université Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
| | - Najiba Lahlou
- Department of Hormonology and Metabolic Disorders, Hôpital Cochin, APHP, Paris-Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Patrick Coquillard
- Institut Sophia-Agrobiotech [INRA-CNRS, Nice University], 06903 Sophia-Antipolis, France
| | - Michel Pugeat
- Institut National de la Recherche Médicale U1060 CaRMen, Fédération d'Endocrinologie, Hospices civils de Lyon, Université Lyon-1, Bron, France
| | - Patricia Pacini
- Laboratoire de l'Environnement de la Ville de Nice, Nice, France
| | | | | | - Patrick Fénichel
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Reproductive Medicine, CHU Nice, Nice, France Institut National de la Recherche Médicale, UMR U1065, Université Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
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O'Hara L, McInnes K, Simitsidellis I, Morgan S, Atanassova N, Slowikowska-Hilczer J, Kula K, Szarras-Czapnik M, Milne L, Mitchell RT, Smith LB. Autocrine androgen action is essential for Leydig cell maturation and function, and protects against late-onset Leydig cell apoptosis in both mice and men. FASEB J 2014; 29:894-910. [PMID: 25404712 PMCID: PMC4422361 DOI: 10.1096/fj.14-255729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Leydig cell number and function decline as men age, and low testosterone is associated with all “Western” cardio-metabolic disorders. However, whether perturbed androgen action within the adult Leydig cell lineage predisposes individuals to this late-onset degeneration remains unknown. To address this, we generated a novel mouse model in which androgen receptor (AR) is ablated from ∼75% of adult Leydig stem cell/cell progenitors, from fetal life onward (Leydig cell AR knockout mice), permitting interrogation of the specific roles of autocrine Leydig cell AR signaling through comparison to adjacent AR-retaining Leydig cells, testes from littermate controls, and to human testes, including from patients with complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS). This revealed that autocrine AR signaling is dispensable for the attainment of final Leydig cell number but is essential for Leydig cell maturation and regulation of steroidogenic enzymes in adulthood. Furthermore, these studies reveal that autocrine AR signaling in Leydig cells protects against late-onset degeneration of the seminiferous epithelium in mice and inhibits Leydig cell apoptosis in both adult mice and patients with CAIS, possibly via opposing aberrant estrogen signaling. We conclude that autocrine androgen action within Leydig cells is essential for the lifelong support of spermatogenesis and the development and lifelong health of Leydig cells.—O’Hara, L., McInnes, K., Simitsidellis, I., Morgan, S., Atanassova, N., Slowikowska-Hilczer, J., Kula, K., Szarras-Czapnik, M., Milne, L., Mitchell, R. T., Smith, L. B. Autocrine androgen action is essential for Leydig cell maturation and function, and protects against late-onset Leydig cell apoptosis in both mice and men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura O'Hara
- *MRC Centre for Reproductive Health and BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland; and Clinic of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kerry McInnes
- *MRC Centre for Reproductive Health and BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland; and Clinic of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ioannis Simitsidellis
- *MRC Centre for Reproductive Health and BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland; and Clinic of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Stephanie Morgan
- *MRC Centre for Reproductive Health and BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland; and Clinic of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Nina Atanassova
- *MRC Centre for Reproductive Health and BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland; and Clinic of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jolanta Slowikowska-Hilczer
- *MRC Centre for Reproductive Health and BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland; and Clinic of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Kula
- *MRC Centre for Reproductive Health and BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland; and Clinic of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maria Szarras-Czapnik
- *MRC Centre for Reproductive Health and BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland; and Clinic of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Laura Milne
- *MRC Centre for Reproductive Health and BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland; and Clinic of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- *MRC Centre for Reproductive Health and BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland; and Clinic of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lee B Smith
- *MRC Centre for Reproductive Health and BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland; and Clinic of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
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Bjelic MM, Stojkov NJ, Baburski AZ, Sokanovic SJ, Mihajlovic AI, Janjic MM, Kostic TS, Andric SA. Molecular adaptations of testosterone-producing Leydig cells during systemic in vivo blockade of the androgen receptor. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 396:10-25. [PMID: 25153259 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Revised: 08/09/2014] [Accepted: 08/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This study systematically evaluates the effects of androgen receptor (AR) blockade on molecular events in Leydig cells. Results showed that intramuscular administration of testosterone-enanthate, at clinically relevant dose, decreased testosterone in interstitial fluid and Leydig cells from adult rats. AR-blocker (Androcur) prevented this effect and testosterone-reduced Leydig cells steroidogenic capacity/activity. Testosterone-reduced expression of some steroidogenic enzymes/proteins (Tspo,StAR,Hsd3b1/2) and transcription factors (Nur77,Gata4,Dax1) was completely abrogated, while decreased expression of Star,Cyp11a1,Cyp17a1,Hsd17b4,Creb1a was partially prevented. In the same cells, increased expression of Hsd3b5/HSD3B and Ar/AR was abolished. Androcur-treatment abolished testosterone-reduced cAMP, coupled with a changed expressional milieu of cAMP signaling elements. Results from in vitro experiments suggest that some of these effects are testosterone-AR dependent, while others could be due to disturbed LH and/or other signals. Presented data provide new molecular insight into Leydig cells function and are important in terms of human reproductive health and the wide-spread use of Androcur as well as use/abuse of testosterone-enanthate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja M Bjelic
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Natasa J Stojkov
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Aleksandar Z Baburski
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Srdjan J Sokanovic
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Aleksandar I Mihajlovic
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Marija M Janjic
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Tatjana S Kostic
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Silvana A Andric
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Signaling Group, Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia.
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Mendoza-Villarroel RE, Di-Luoffo M, Camiré E, Giner XC, Brousseau C, Tremblay JJ. The INSL3 gene is a direct target for the orphan nuclear receptor, COUP-TFII, in Leydig cells. J Mol Endocrinol 2014; 53:43-55. [PMID: 24780841 DOI: 10.1530/jme-13-0290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Insulin-like 3 (INSL3), a hormone produced by Leydig cells, regulates testicular descent during foetal life and bone metabolism in adults. Despite its importance, little is known about the molecular mechanisms controlling INSL3 expression. Reduced Insl3 mRNA levels were reported in the testis of mice deficient for chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter-transcription factor II (COUP-TFII), an orphan nuclear receptor known to play critical roles in cell differentiation and lineage determination in several tissues. Although COUP-TFII-deficient mice had Leydig cell dysfunction and impaired fertility, it remained unknown whether Insl3 expression was directly regulated by COUP-TFII. In this study, we observed a significant decrease in Insl3 mRNA levels in MA-10 Leydig cells depleted of COUP-TFII. Furthermore, a -1087 bp mouse Insl3 promoter was activated fourfold by COUP-TFII in MA-10 Leydig cells. Using 5' progressive deletions, the COUP-TFII-responsive element was located between -186 and -79 bp, a region containing previously uncharacterised direct repeat 0-like (DR0-like) and DR3 elements. The recruitment and direct binding of COUP-TFII to the DR0-like element were confirmed by chromatin immunoprecipitation and DNA precipitation assay respectively. Mutation of the DR0-like element, which prevented COUP-TFII binding, significantly decreased COUP-TFII-mediated activation of the -1087 bp Insl3 reporter in CV-1 fibroblast cells but not in MA-10 Leydig cells. Finally, we found that COUP-TFII cooperates with the nuclear receptor steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1) to further enhance Insl3 promoter activity. Our results identify Insl3 as a target for COUP-TFII in Leydig cells and revealed that COUP-TFII acts through protein-protein interactions with other DNA-bound transcription factors, including SF1, to activate Insl3 transcription in these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raifish E Mendoza-Villarroel
- ReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL Room T3-67, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec, City, Québec, Canada G1V 4G2Department of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Research in Biology of Reproduction, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada G1V 0A6
| | - Mickaël Di-Luoffo
- ReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL Room T3-67, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec, City, Québec, Canada G1V 4G2Department of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Research in Biology of Reproduction, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada G1V 0A6
| | - Etienne Camiré
- ReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL Room T3-67, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec, City, Québec, Canada G1V 4G2Department of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Research in Biology of Reproduction, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada G1V 0A6
| | - Xavier C Giner
- ReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL Room T3-67, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec, City, Québec, Canada G1V 4G2Department of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Research in Biology of Reproduction, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada G1V 0A6
| | - Catherine Brousseau
- ReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL Room T3-67, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec, City, Québec, Canada G1V 4G2Department of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Research in Biology of Reproduction, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada G1V 0A6
| | - Jacques J Tremblay
- ReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL Room T3-67, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec, City, Québec, Canada G1V 4G2Department of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Research in Biology of Reproduction, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada G1V 0A6ReproductionMother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL Room T3-67, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec, City, Québec, Canada G1V 4G2Department of ObstetricsGynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Research in Biology of Reproduction, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada G1V 0A6
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Ivell R, Dai Y, Mann N, Anand-Ivell R. Non-classical mechanisms of steroid sensing in the ovary: lessons from the bovine oxytocin model. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 382:466-471. [PMID: 23632104 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Steroidogenic tissues such as the ovary, testes or adrenal glands are paradoxical in that they often indicate actions of steroid hormones within a dynamic range of ligand concentration in a high nanomolar or even micromolar level, i.e. at the natural concentrations existing within those organs. Yet ligand-activated nuclear steroid receptors act classically by direct interaction with DNA in the picomolar or low nanomolar range. Moreover, global genomic studies suggest that less than 40% of steroid-regulated genes involve classical responsive elements in gene promoter regions. The bovine oxytocin gene is a key element in the maternal recognition of pregnancy in ruminants and is regulated via an SF1 site in its proximal promoter. This gene is also regulated by steroids acting in a non-classical manner, involving nuclear receptors which do not interact directly with DNA. Dose-response relationships for these actions are in the high nanomolar range. Similar 'steroid sensing' mechanisms may prevail for other SF1-regulated genes and predict alternative pathways by which environmental endocrine disruptors might influence the functioning of steroid-producing organs and hence indirectly the steroid-dependent control of physiology and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Ivell
- Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany; School of Molecular and Biomedical Science, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Yanzhenzi Dai
- Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Navdeep Mann
- School of Molecular and Biomedical Science, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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36
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Xue K, Kim JY, Liu JY, Tsang BK. Insulin-like 3-induced rat preantral follicular growth is mediated by growth differentiation factor 9. Endocrinology 2014; 155:156-67. [PMID: 24169563 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The communication of somatic cells and oocytes by intrafollicular paracrine factors is essential for follicular growth in the ovary. Insulin-like 3 (INSL3) is a theca cell-secreted paracrine factor. Androgens and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9), an oocyte-derived growth factor, are essential for follicular development. Using a rat preantral follicle culture model, we examined in the present study the influence of INSL3 on preantral follicular growth and the molecular mechanisms involved. We have observed that the receptor for INSL3, relaxin/insulin-like family peptide receptor 2 (RXFP2), was exclusively expressed in oocytes. Recombinant INSL3 stimulated Gdf9 expression, preantral follicular growth, and testosterone synthesis in vitro. Inhibition of the cAMP/protein kinase A signaling pathway (with cAMP antagonist, 8-bromoadenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate, Rp-isomer) attenuated INSL3-induced Gdf9 expression and preantral follicular growth. Moreover, knocking down Gdf9 expression (with small interfering RNA) or inhibiting GDF9 signaling (with SB431542, an activin receptor-like kinase receptor 5 inhibitor, or specific inhibitor of mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 3) or androgen action (with flutamide, an androgen receptor antagonist) suppressed INSL3-induced preantral follicular growth. In addition, LH and DHT regulated the expression of Insl3 mRNA in preantral follicles. These observations suggest that INSL3 is a key theca cell-derived growth factor for preantral follicle and that its action is mediated by GDF9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Xue
- State Key Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine (K.X., J.L.), Centre for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Cellular and Molecular Medicine (K.X., J.Y.K., B.K.T.) and Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences (B.K.T.), University of Ottawa, and Chronic Disease Program (K.X., J.Y.K., B.K.T.), Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa K1H 8L6, Canada; and World Class University Biomodulation Major (J.Y.K., B.K.T.), Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea
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Bay K, Anand-Ivell R. Human Testicular Insulin-Like Factor 3 and Endocrine Disrupters. VITAMINS & HORMONES 2014; 94:327-48. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-800095-3.00012-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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38
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Albert O, Jégou B. A critical assessment of the endocrine susceptibility of the human testis to phthalates from fetal life to adulthood. Hum Reprod Update 2013; 20:231-49. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Doyle TJ, Bowman JL, Windell VL, McLean DJ, Kim KH. Transgenerational effects of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate on testicular germ cell associations and spermatogonial stem cells in mice. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:112. [PMID: 23536373 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.106104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence has linked human phthalate exposure to abnormal reproductive and hormonal effects. Phthalates are plasticizers that confer flexibility and transparency to plastics, but they readily contaminate the body and the environment. In this study, timed pregnant CD1 outbred mice were treated with di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) from Embryonic Day 7 (E7) to E14. The subsequent generation (F1) offspring were then bred to produce the F2, F3, and F4 offspring, without any further DEHP treatment. This exposure scheme disrupted testicular germ cell association and decreased sperm count and motility in F1 to F4 offspring. By spermatogonial transplantation techniques, the exposure scheme also disrupted spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) function of F3 offspring. The W/W(V) recipient testes transplanted with F3 offspring germ cells from the DEHP-treated group had a dramatically lower percentage of donor germ cell-derived spermatogenic recovery in seminiferous tubules when compared to the recipient testes transplanted with CD1 control germ cells. Further characterization showed that the major block of donor germ cell-derived spermatogenesis was before the appearance of undifferentiated spermatogonia. Interestingly, the testes transplanted with the F3 offspring germ cells from the DEHP-treated group, when regenerated, replicated testis morphology similar to that observed in the testes from the F1 to F3 offspring of the DEHP-treated group, suggesting that the germ cell disorganization phenotype originates from the stem cells of F3 offspring. In conclusion, embryonic exposure to DEHP was found to disrupt testicular germ cell organization and SSC function in a transgenerational manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Doyle
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
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40
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Braslau R, Schäffner F, Earla A. Polymeric phthalates: Potential nonmigratory macromolecular plasticizers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/pola.26485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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41
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Kessler W, Numtip W, Völkel W, Seckin E, Csanády GA, Pütz C, Klein D, Fromme H, Filser JG. Kinetics of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in blood and of DEHP metabolites in urine of male volunteers after single ingestion of ring-deuterated DEHP. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2012; 264:284-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2012.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Revised: 08/03/2012] [Accepted: 08/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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42
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Piché CD, Sauvageau D, Vanlian M, Erythropel HC, Robaire B, Leask RL. Effects of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and four of its metabolites on steroidogenesis in MA-10 cells. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2012; 79:108-115. [PMID: 22236953 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2011.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2011] [Revised: 12/09/2011] [Accepted: 12/13/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Phthalate plasticizers are used in the plastics industry to aid in processing and impart flexibility to plastics. Due to the broad use of plastics, and the tendency of plasticizers to leach out of polymers, plasticizers have become ubiquitous in the environment. Concerns about the testicular toxicity of phthalate plasticizers, in particular di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), have arisen due to their ability to cause male reproductive tract abnormalities in animal models. It has been assumed that the DEHP metabolite, mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), is the active compound, however, metabolites such as 2-ethylhexanol, 2-ethylhexanal and 2-ethylhexanoic acid, have not been thoroughly investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-androgenic potential of these metabolites in vitro with a mouse Leydig tumor cell line, MA-10 cells. DEHP, MEHP and 2-ethylhexanal were found to decrease cell viability, as well as steroidogenic potential. The latter was assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to quantify steroid production and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to assess gene expression analysis of key steroidogenic enzymes. 2-Ethylhexanal proved to be the most potent steroidogenic disruptor, offering intriguing implications in the search for the mechanism of phthalate testicular toxicity. Overall, the study suggests the involvement of multiple active metabolites in the testicular toxicity of DEHP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlie D Piché
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, 3610 University Street, Montréal, QC, Canada H3A 2B2
| | - Dominic Sauvageau
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, 3610 University Street, Montréal, QC, Canada H3A 2B2; Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, 9107 116 Sreet, Edmonton, AB, Canada T6G 2V4
| | - Marie Vanlian
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, 3610 University Street, Montréal, QC, Canada H3A 2B2
| | - Hanno C Erythropel
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, 3610 University Street, Montréal, QC, Canada H3A 2B2
| | - Bernard Robaire
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir-William-Osler, Montréal, QC, Canada H3G 1Y6
| | - Richard L Leask
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, 3610 University Street, Montréal, QC, Canada H3A 2B2.
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43
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Lucas BEG, Fields C, Joshi N, Hofmann MC. Mono-(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate (MEHP) affects ERK-dependent GDNF signalling in mouse stem-progenitor spermatogonia. Toxicology 2012; 299:10-9. [PMID: 22564763 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2012.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2012] [Revised: 04/14/2012] [Accepted: 04/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Many commercial and household products such as lubricants, cosmetics, plastics, and paint contain phthalates, in particular bis-(2-ethyhexyl)-phthalate (DEHP). As a consequence, phthalates have been found in a number of locations and foods (streambeds, household dust, bottled water and dairy products). Epidemiological and animal studies analysing phthalate exposure in males provide evidence of degradation in sperm quality, associated to an increase in the incidence of genital birth defects and testicular cancers. In the testis, spermatogenesis is maintained throughout life by a small number of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) that self-renew or differentiate to produce adequate numbers of spermatozoa. Disruption or alteration of SSC self-renewal induce decreased sperm count and sperm quality, or may potentially lead to testicular cancer. GDNF, or glial cell-line-derived neurotrophic factor, is a growth factor that is essential for the self-renewal of SSCs and continuous spermatogenesis. In the present study, the SSC-derived cell line C18-4 was used as a model for preliminary assessment of the effects of mono-(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate (MEHP, main metabolite of DEHP) on spermatogonial stem cells. Our data demonstrate that MEHP disrupts one of the known GDNF signalling pathways in these cells. MEHP induced a decrease of C18-4 cell viability in a time- and dose-dependent manner, as well as a disruption of ERK1/2 activation but not of SRC signalling. As a result, we observed a decrease of expression of the transcription factor FOS, which is downstream of the GDNF/ERK1/2 axis in these cells. Taken together, our data suggest that MEHP exposure affects SSC proliferation through inhibition of specific signalling molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin E G Lucas
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
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Chauvigné F, Plummer S, Lesné L, Cravedi JP, Dejucq-Rainsford N, Fostier A, Jégou B. Mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate directly alters the expression of Leydig cell genes and CYP17 lyase activity in cultured rat fetal testis. PLoS One 2011; 6:e27172. [PMID: 22087261 PMCID: PMC3210143 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0027172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2011] [Accepted: 10/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to phthalates in utero alters fetal rat testis gene expression and testosterone production, but much remains to be done to understand the mechanisms underlying the direct action of phthalate within the fetal testis. We aimed to investigate the direct mechanisms of action of mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) on the rat fetal testis, focusing on Leydig cell steroidogenesis in particular. We used an in vitro system based on the culture for three days, with or without MEHP, of rat fetal testes obtained at 14.5 days post-coitum.Exposure to MEHP led to a dose-dependent decrease in testosterone production. Moreover, the production of 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT) (-68%) and androstenedione (-54%) was also inhibited by 10 µM MEHP, whereas 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17α-OHP) production was found to increase (+41%). Testosterone synthesis was rescued by the addition of androstenedione but not by any of the other precursors used. Thus, the hormone data suggested that steroidogenesis was blocked at the level of the 17,20 lyase activity of the P450c17 enzyme (CYP17), converting 17α-OHP to androstenedione. The subsequent gene expression and protein levels supported this hypothesis. In addition to Cyp17a1, microarray analysis showed that several other genes important for testes development were affected by MEHP. These genes included those encoding insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3), which is involved in controlling testicular descent, and Inha, which encodes the alpha subunit of inhibin B.These findings indicate that under in vitro conditions known to support normal differentiation of the fetal rat testis, the exposure to MEHP directly inhibits several important Leydig cell factors involved in testis function and that the Cyp17a1 gene is a specific target to MEHP explaining the MEHP-induced suppression of steroidogenesis observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Chauvigné
- Inserm (Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale), U625, IRSET (Institut de Recherche sur la Santé, l'Environnement et le Travail), Rennes, France
| | | | - Laurianne Lesné
- Inserm (Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale), U625, IRSET (Institut de Recherche sur la Santé, l'Environnement et le Travail), Rennes, France
| | | | - Nathalie Dejucq-Rainsford
- Inserm (Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale), U625, IRSET (Institut de Recherche sur la Santé, l'Environnement et le Travail), Rennes, France
| | - Alexis Fostier
- INRA (Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique), UR1037 SCRIBE (Station Commune de Recherche en Ichtyophysiologie, Biodiversité et Environnement), Rennes, France
| | - Bernard Jégou
- Inserm (Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale), U625, IRSET (Institut de Recherche sur la Santé, l'Environnement et le Travail), Rennes, France
- * E-mail:
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Gambineri A, Patton L, Prontera O, Fanelli F, Ciampaglia W, Cognigni GE, Pagotto U, Pasquali R. Basal insulin-like factor 3 levels predict functional ovarian hyperandrogenism in the polycystic ovary syndrome. J Endocrinol Invest 2011; 34:685-91. [PMID: 21586896 DOI: 10.3275/7726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aims of the study were to understand the association between insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) and functional ovarian hyperandrogenism (FOH) in PCOS and the regulatory role played by LH. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Fifteen PCOS women were classified as FOH (FOH-PCOS, no.=8) and non-FOH (NFOH-PCOS, no.=7) according to the response of 17OH-progesterone to buserelin (a GnRH analogue) with respect to 15 controls. FOH-PCOS and NFOH-PCOS were compared for basal INSL3 levels. In addition, the effect of buserelin on INSL3 concentrations and the relationship between basal and buserelin-stimulated LH and 17OH-progesterone and INSL3 were evaluated. RESULTS Basal INSL3 levels were higher in FOH-PCOS than NFOH-PCOS (p=0.001) and controls (p=0.001), whereas they did not differ between NFOHPCOS and controls. In addition, FOH-PCOS had a higher response of LH to buserelin with respect to NFOH-PCOS. Within all PCOS women the levels of INSL3 positively correlated with free testosterone (p=0.022) and negatively with SHBG (r= p=0.031). Moreover, positive correlations with the absolute increase of 17OH-progesterone (p<0.001) and with the LH area under the curve (p=0.001) after buserelin administration were found. In the multiple regression analysis INSL3 persisted significantly correlated only with 17OH-progesterone response to buserelin. Finally, INSL3 was not significantly modified after buserelin administration either in FOHPCOS or in NFOH-PCOS. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that INSL3 is related to FOH in PCOS women, but this association seems not to be mediated by LH, further reinforcing the concept that a pathophysiological heterogeneity for ovarian hyperandrogenism in PCOS exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gambineri
- Department of Internal Medicine, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
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Bay K, Andersson AM. Human testicular insulin-like factor 3: in relation to development, reproductive hormones and andrological disorders. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 34:97-109. [PMID: 20550598 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2010.01074.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Knockout of the gene encoding insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) results in cryptorchidism in mice due to disruption of the transabdominal phase of testicular descent. This finding was essential for understanding the complete course of testis descensus, and wound up years of speculations regarding the endocrine regulation of this process. INSL3 is, along with testosterone, a major secretory product of testicular Leydig cells. In addition to its crucial function in testicular descent, INSL3 is suggested to play a paracrine role in germ cell survival and an endocrine role in bone metabolism. INSL3 is produced in human prenatal and neonatal, and in adult Leydig cells to various extents, and is in a developmental context regulated like testosterone, with production during second trimester, an early postnatal peak and increasing secretion during puberty, resulting in high adult serum levels. INSL3 production is entirely dependent on the state of Leydig cell differentiation, and is stimulated by the long-term trophic effects mediated by luteinizing hormone (LH). Once differentiated, Leydig cells apparently express INSL3 in a constitutive manner, and the hormone is thereby insensitive to the acute, steroidogenic effects of LH, which for example is an important factor in the regulation of testosterone. Clinically, serum INSL3 levels can turn out to be a usable tool to monitor basal Leydig cell function in patients with various disorders affecting Leydig cell function. According to animal studies, foetal INSL3 production is, directly or indirectly, sensitive to oestrogenic or anti-androgenic compounds. This provides important insight into the mechanism by which maternal exposure to endocrine disrupters can result in cryptorchidism in the next generation. Conclusively, INSL3 is an interesting testicular hormone with potential clinical value as a marker for Leydig cell function. It should be considered on a par with testosterone in the evaluation of testicular function and the consequences of Leydig cell dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Bay
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Shen O, Wu W, Du G, Liu R, Yu L, Sun H, Han X, Jiang Y, Shi W, Hu W, Song L, Xia Y, Wang S, Wang X. Thyroid disruption by Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) and mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP) in Xenopus laevis. PLoS One 2011; 6:e19159. [PMID: 21544203 PMCID: PMC3081329 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0019159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2010] [Accepted: 03/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), a chemical widely used in many consumer products, is estrogenic and capable of producing seriously reproductive and developmental effects in laboratory animals. However, recent in vitro studies have shown that DBP and mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), the major metabolite of DBP, possessed thyroid hormone receptor (TR) antagonist activity. It is therefore important to consider DBP and MBP that may interfere with thyroid hormone system. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Nieuwkoop and Faber stage 51 Xenopus laevis were exposed to DBP and MBP (2, 10 or 15 mg/L) separately for 21 days. The two test chemicals decelerated spontaneous metamorphosis in X. laevis at concentrations of 10 and 15 mg/L. Moreover, MBP seemed to possess stronger activity. The effects of DBP and MBP on inducing changes of expression of selected thyroid hormone response genes: thyroid hormone receptor-beta (TRβ), retinoid X receptor gamma (RXRγ), alpha and beta subunits of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSHα and TSHβ) were detected by qPCR at all concentrations of the compounds. Using mammalian two-hybrid assay in vitro, we found that DBP and MBP enhanced the interactions between co-repressor SMRT (silencing mediator for retinoid and thyroid hormone receptors) and TR in a dose-dependent manner, and MBP displayed more markedly. In addition, MBP at low concentrations (2 and 10 mg/L) caused aberrant methylation of TRβ in head tissue. CONCLUSIONS The current findings highlight potential disruption of thyroid signalling by DBP and MBP and provide data for human risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ouxi Shen
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Suzhou Industrial Park,
Suzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, School
of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology (Nanjing Medical University),
Ministry of Education, China
| | - Wei Wu
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, School
of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology (Nanjing Medical University),
Ministry of Education, China
| | - Guizhen Du
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, School
of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology (Nanjing Medical University),
Ministry of Education, China
| | - Renping Liu
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Suzhou Industrial Park,
Suzhou, China
| | - Lugang Yu
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Suzhou Industrial Park,
Suzhou, China
| | - Hong Sun
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing,
China
| | - Xiumei Han
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, School
of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology (Nanjing Medical University),
Ministry of Education, China
| | - Yi Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of
Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of
the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of
the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling Song
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, School
of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology (Nanjing Medical University),
Ministry of Education, China
| | - Yankai Xia
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, School
of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology (Nanjing Medical University),
Ministry of Education, China
| | - Shoulin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, School
of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology (Nanjing Medical University),
Ministry of Education, China
| | - Xinru Wang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, School
of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology (Nanjing Medical University),
Ministry of Education, China
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Abstract
Complete testicular descent is a sign of, and a prerequisite for, normal testicular function in adult life. The process of testis descent is dependent on gubernacular growth and reorganization, which is regulated by the Leydig cell hormones insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) and testosterone. Investigation of the role of INSL3 and its receptor, relaxin-family peptide receptor 2 (RXFP2), has contributed substantially to our understanding of the hormonal control of testicular descent. Cryptorchidism is a common congenital malformation, which is seen in 2-9% of newborn boys, and confers an increased risk of infertility and testicular cancer in adulthood. Although some cases of isolated cryptorchidism in humans can be ascribed to known genetic defects, such as mutations in INSL3 or RXFP2, the cause of cryptorchidism remains unknown in most patients. Several animal and human studies are currently underway to test the hypothesis that in utero factors, including environmental and maternal lifestyle factors, may be involved in the etiology of cryptorchidism. Overall, the etiology of isolated cryptorchidism seems to be complex and multifactorial, involving both genetic and nongenetic components.
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Pathirana IN, Ashida Y, Kawate N, Tanaka K, Tsuji M, Takahashi M, Hatoya S, Inaba T, Tamada H. Comparison of testosterone and insulin-like peptide 3 secretions in response to human chorionic gonadotropin in cultured interstitial cells from scrotal and retained testes in dogs. Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 124:138-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2010] [Revised: 02/03/2011] [Accepted: 02/09/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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García-López A, de Jonge H, Nóbrega RH, de Waal PP, van Dijk W, Hemrika W, Taranger GL, Bogerd J, Schulz RW. Studies in zebrafish reveal unusual cellular expression patterns of gonadotropin receptor messenger ribonucleic acids in the testis and unexpected functional differentiation of the gonadotropins. Endocrinology 2010; 151:2349-60. [PMID: 20308533 PMCID: PMC2869266 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-1227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to improve, using the zebrafish model, our understanding of the distinct roles of pituitary gonadotropins FSH and LH in regulating testis functions in teleost fish. We report, for the first time in a vertebrate species, that zebrafish Leydig cells as well as Sertoli cells express the mRNAs for both gonadotropin receptors (fshr and lhcgr). Although Leydig cell fshr expression has been reported in other piscine species and may be a common feature of teleost fish, Sertoli cell lhcgr expression has not been reported previously and might be related to the undifferentiated gonochoristic mode of gonadal sex differentiation in zebrafish. Both recombinant zebrafish (rzf) gonadotropins (i.e. rzfLH and rzfFSH) stimulated androgen release in vitro and in vivo, with rzfFSH being significantly more potent than rzfLH. Forskolin-induced adenylate cyclase activation mimicked, whereas the protein kinase A inhibitor H-89 significantly reduced, the gonadotropin-stimulated androgen release. Therefore, we conclude that both FSH receptor and LH/choriogonadotropin receptor signaling are predominantly mediated through the cAMP/protein kinase A pathway to promote steroid production. Despite this similarity, other downstream mechanisms seem to differ. For example, rzfFSH up-regulated the testicular mRNA levels of a number of steroidogenesis-related genes both in vitro and in vivo, whereas rzfLH or human chorionic gonadotropin did not. Although not fully understood at present, these differences could explain the capacity of FSH to support both steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis on a long-term basis, whereas LH-stimulated steroidogenesis might be a more acute process, possibly restricted to periods during which peak steroid levels are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel García-López
- Department of Biology, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Utrecht University, Faculty of Science, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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