1
|
Orlova SY, Ruzina MN, Emelianova OR, Sergeev AA, Chikurova EA, Orlov AM, Mugue NS. In Search of a Target Gene for a Desirable Phenotype in Aquaculture: Genome Editing of Cyprinidae and Salmonidae Species. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:726. [PMID: 38927661 PMCID: PMC11202958 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060726] [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] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Aquaculture supplies the world food market with a significant amount of valuable protein. Highly productive aquaculture fishes can be derived by utilizing genome-editing methods, and the main problem is to choose a target gene to obtain the desirable phenotype. This paper presents a review of the studies of genome editing for genes controlling body development, growth, pigmentation and sex determination in five key aquaculture Salmonidae and Cyprinidae species, such as rainbow trout (Onchorhynchus mykiss), Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), common carp (Cyprinus carpio), goldfish (Carassius auratus), Gibel carp (Carassius gibelio) and the model fish zebrafish (Danio rerio). Among the genes studied, the most applicable for aquaculture are mstnba, pomc, and acvr2, the knockout of which leads to enhanced muscle growth; runx2b, mutants of which do not form bones in myoseptae; lepr, whose lack of function makes fish fast-growing; fads2, Δ6abc/5Mt, and Δ6bcMt, affecting the composition of fatty acids in fish meat; dnd mettl3, and wnt4a, mutants of which are sterile; and disease-susceptibility genes prmt7, gab3, gcJAM-A, and cxcr3.2. Schemes for obtaining common carp populations consisting of only large females are promising for use in aquaculture. The immobilized and uncolored zebrafish line is of interest for laboratory use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana Yu. Orlova
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, 105187 Moscow, Russia; (S.Y.O.)
| | - Maria N. Ruzina
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, 105187 Moscow, Russia; (S.Y.O.)
| | - Olga R. Emelianova
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, 105187 Moscow, Russia; (S.Y.O.)
- Department of Biological Evolution, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexey A. Sergeev
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, 105187 Moscow, Russia; (S.Y.O.)
| | - Evgeniya A. Chikurova
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, 105187 Moscow, Russia; (S.Y.O.)
| | - Alexei M. Orlov
- Laboratory of Oceanic Ichthyofauna, Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117218 Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory of Behavior of Lower Vertebrates, Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119071 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Ichthyology, Dagestan State University, 367000 Makhachkala, Russia
| | - Nikolai S. Mugue
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, 105187 Moscow, Russia; (S.Y.O.)
- Laboratory of Genome Evolution and Speciation, Institute of Developmental Biology Russian Academy of Sciences, 117808 Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Priya PS, Pratiksha Nandhini P, Vaishnavi S, Pavithra V, Almutairi MH, Almutairi BO, Arokiyaraj S, Pachaiappan R, Arockiaraj J. Rhodamine B, an organic environmental pollutant induces reproductive toxicity in parental and teratogenicity in F1 generation in vivo. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 280:109898. [PMID: 38508353 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the reproductive toxicity of rhodamine B in zebrafish and its transgenerational effects on the F1 generation. In silico toxicity predictions revealed high toxicity of rhodamine B, mainly targeting pathways associated with the reproductive and endocrine systems. In vivo experiments on zebrafish demonstrated that rhodamine B exposure at a concentration of 1.5 mg/L led to significant impairments in fecundity parameters, particularly affecting females. Histopathological analysis revealed distinct changes in reproductive organs, further confirming the reproductive toxicity of rhodamine B, with females being more susceptible than males. Gene expression studies indicated significant suppression of genes crucial for ovulation in rhodamine B-treated female fish, highlighting hormonal imbalance as a potential mechanism of reproductive toxicity. Furthermore, bioaccumulation studies showed the presence of rhodamine B in both adult fish gonads and F1 generation samples, suggesting transgenerational transfer of the dye. Embryotoxicity studies on F1 generation larvae demonstrated reduced survival rates, lower hatching rates, and increased malformations in groups exposed to rhodamine B. Moreover, rhodamine B induced oxidative stress in F1 generation larvae, as evidenced by elevated levels of reactive oxygen species and altered antioxidant enzyme activity. Neurotoxicity assessments revealed reduced acetylcholinesterase activity, indicating potential neurological impairments in F1 generation larvae. Additionally, locomotory defects and skeletal abnormalities were observed in F1 generation larvae exposed to rhodamine B. This study provides comprehensive evidence of the reproductive toxicity of rhodamine B in adult zebrafish and its transgenerational effects on the F1 generation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Snega Priya
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulatur 603203, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - P Pratiksha Nandhini
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulatur 603203, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S Vaishnavi
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulatur 603203, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - V Pavithra
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulatur 603203, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mikhlid H Almutairi
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bader O Almutairi
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Selvaraj Arokiyaraj
- Department of Food Science & Biotechnology, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, Republic of Korea
| | - Raman Pachaiappan
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603203, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jesu Arockiaraj
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulatur 603203, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wang M, Luo J, Dai L, Feng M, Cao X, Zhang J, Wan Y, Yang X, Wang Y. Foxp2 deficiency impairs reproduction by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in zebrafish†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:908-923. [PMID: 38288660 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae019] [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] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
FOXP2 was initially characterized as a transcription factor linked to speech and language disorders. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals that Foxp2 is enriched in the gonadotrope cluster of the pituitary gland and colocalized with the hormones LHB and FSHB in chickens and mice, implying that FOXP2 might be associated with reproduction in vertebrates. Herein, we investigated the roles of foxp2 in reproduction in a Foxp2-deficient zebrafish model. The results indicated that the loss of Foxp2 inhibits courtship behavior in adult male zebrafish. Notably, Foxp2 deficiency disrupts gonad development, leading to retardation of follicle development and a decrease in oocytes in females at the full-growth stage, among other phenotypes. The transcriptome analysis (RNA-seq) also revealed that differentially expressed genes clustered into the estrogen signaling and ovarian steroidogenesis-related signaling pathways. In addition, we found that Foxp2 deficiency could modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, especially the regulation of lhb and fshb expression, in zebrafish. In contrast, the injection of human chorionic gonadotropin, a specific LH agonist, partially rescues Foxp2-impaired reproduction in zebrafish, suggesting that Foxp2 plays an important role in the regulation of reproduction via the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in zebrafish. Thus, our findings reveal a new role for Foxp2 in the regulation of reproduction in vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maya Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Juanjuan Luo
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Dai
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Meilan Feng
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoqian Cao
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiannan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yiping Wan
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaojun Yang
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Yajun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ai N, Han CR, Zhao H, Cheng SY, Ge W. Disruption of Thyroid Hormone Receptor Thrab Leads to Female Infertility in Zebrafish. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae037. [PMID: 38527850 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones (THs) T4 and T3 are vital for development, growth, and metabolism. Thyroid dysfunction can also cause problems in fertility, suggesting involvement of THs in reproduction. In zebrafish, there exist 2 forms of TH receptor alpha gene (thraa and thrab). Disruption of these genes by CRISPR/Cas9 showed no reproductive irregularities in the thraa mutant; however, inactivation of the thrab gene resulted in female infertility. Although young female mutants (thrabm/m) showed normal ovarian development and folliculogenesis before sexual maturation, they failed to release eggs during oviposition after sexual maturation. This spawning failure was due to oviductal blockage at the genital papilla. The obstruction of the oviduct subsequently caused an accumulation of the eggs in the ovary, resulting in severe ovarian hypertrophy, abdominal distention, and disruption of folliculogenesis. Gene expression analysis showed expression of both TH receptors and estrogen receptors in the genital papilla, suggesting a direct TH action and potential interactions between thyroid and estrogen signaling pathways in controlling genital papilla development and function. In addition to their actions in the reproductive tracts, THs may also have direct effects in the ovary, as suggested by follicle atresia and cessation of folliculogenesis in the heterozygous mutant (thrab+/m), which was normal in all aspects of female reproduction in young and sexually mature fish but exhibited premature ovarian failure in aged females. In summary, this study provides substantial evidence for roles of THs in controlling the development and functions of both reproductive tract and ovary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nana Ai
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Cho Rong Han
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Hui Zhao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Sheue-Yann Cheng
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Wei Ge
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Andersson E, Schulz RW, Almeida F, Kleppe L, Skaftnesmo KO, Kjærner-Semb E, Crespo D, Fjelldal PG, Hansen TJ, Norberg B, Edvardsen RB, Wargelius A. Loss of Fshr Prevents Testicular Maturation in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar L.). Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae013. [PMID: 38298132 PMCID: PMC10878062 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Early puberty poses a significant challenge for male Atlantic salmon in aquaculture due to its negative impact on growth and welfare. The regulation of puberty in vertebrates involves 2 key reproductive hormones: follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) and their gonadal receptors. In male mice lacking FSH receptor, testes size is reduced, but fertility is maintained, while medaka and zebrafish with a disrupted fshr gene exhibit near normal testis size and fertility. In these fishes both Fsh and Lh are present during puberty and Lh may rescue fertility, while in salmonid fish only Fsh is present in the circulation during puberty. Using CRISPR-Cas9, we produced crispants with a high prevalence of fshr mutations at the target site, which remained fertile, although more than half showed a testis development deviating from wild-type (wt) males. Crossing out these F0 crispants to each other produced a viable F1 generation showing frameshift (fshr-/-) or in-frame mutations (fshrif/if). Nearly all wt males matured while all fshr-/- males remained immature with small testes containing A spermatogonia as the furthest developed germ cell type and prepubertal plasma androgen levels. Also, the pituitary transcript levels of gnrhr2bba and lhb, but not for fshb, were reduced in the fshr-/- males compared with maturing males. More than half of the fshrif/if mutant males showed no or a delayed maturation. In conclusion, Atlantic salmon show the unique characteristic that loss of Fshr function alone results in male infertility, offering new opportunities to control precocious puberty or fertility in salmon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Andersson
- Institute of Marine Research, NO-5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Rüdiger W Schulz
- Institute of Marine Research, NO-5817 Bergen, Norway
- Science Faculty, Department Biology, Utrecht University, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Lene Kleppe
- Institute of Marine Research, NO-5817 Bergen, Norway
| | | | | | - Diego Crespo
- Institute of Marine Research, NO-5817 Bergen, Norway
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Dong M, Tang M, Li W, Li S, Yi M, Liu W. Morphological and transcriptional analysis of sexual differentiation and gonadal development in a burrowing fish, the four-eyed sleeper (Bostrychus sinensis). COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY. PART D, GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2023; 48:101148. [PMID: 37865042 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2023.101148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Four-eyed sleeper (Bostrychus sinensis) is a commercially important sea water fish, and the male individuals exhibit significant advantages in somatic growth and stress resistance, so developing sex control strategy to create all-male progeny will produce higher economic value. However, little is known about the genetic background associated with sex differentiation in this species. In this study, we investigated gonadal development and uncovered critical window stages of sexual differentiation (about 2 mph), transition from proliferation to differentiation in female germ stem cells (GSCs) (2-3 mph) and male GSCs (3-4 mph). De novo transcriptome analysis revealed candidate genes and signaling pathways associated with sexual differentiation and gonadal development in four-eyed sleeper. The results showed that sox9 and zglp1 were the earliest sex-biased transcription factors during sex differentiation. Down-regulation of chemokine, cytokines-cytokine receptors and up-regulation of cellular senescence pathway might be involved in GSC differentiation. Weighted gene correlation network analysis showed that metabolic pathway and occludin were the hub signaling and gene in ovarian development, meanwhile the MAPK signaling pathways, cellular senescence pathway and ash1l (histone H3-lysine4 N-trimethyltransferase) were the hub pathways and gene in testicular development. The present work elucidated the developmental processes of sexual differentiation and gonadal development and revealed their associated revealed genes and signaling pathways in four-eyed sleeper, providing theoretical basis for developing sex-control techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengdan Dong
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Mingyue Tang
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Wenjing Li
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Shizhu Li
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Meisheng Yi
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Wei Liu
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Qian L, Zhang Y, Jiang J, Li L, Miao S, Huang X, Che Z, Chen G, Liu S. Assessment of reproductive toxicity in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) following sublethal exposure to penthiopyrad. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 268:115721. [PMID: 38000300 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Penthiopyrad (PO), a succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor (SDHI) fungicide, poses a potential risk to fish. Here, we investigated the adverse effects of PO on endocrine regulation and reproductive capacity in zebrafish during a 21-d sublethal exposure to PO concentrations ranging from 0.02 to 2.00 mg/L. Following exposure to PO (0.20 and 2.00 mg/L), female-specific effects including follicle necrosis, structural disturbance of the yolk follicle, fusion of cortical follicles appeared in ovarian tissue of adult females, which led to a significant reduction in fertility. Correspondingly, 0.20 and 2.00 mg/L PO led to a marked reduction in the GSI values of females, and 2.00 mg/L PO caused a 31% decline in the proportion of perinucleolar oocytes (PCO) in oocytes. In addition, testosterone (T) level was obviously suppressed and 17β-estradiol (E2) level was increased in females after exposure to 2.00 mg/L PO. Male zebrafish treated with 0.20 and 2.00 mg/L of PO exhibited significant interstitial enlargement, edema in the testes, and reduced diameter of seminiferous tubules, along with a thinner basement membrane. The effects of PO on males were associated with significant increase in E2 level, suggesting that PO has an estrogenic effect on male fish. Greater E2 levels in serum were further supported by increased transcription levels of genes linked to the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad-liver (HPGL) axis. Notably, transcription levels of cyp19a, er2b, era, and cyp19b was remarkably increased, exhibiting a clear link with variations in E2 levels. Overall, the present study demonstrates that PO induces reproductive impairment in zebrafish by promoting steroidogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Le Qian
- College of Horticulture and plant protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China.
| | - Yikai Zhang
- College of Horticulture and plant protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Jia Jiang
- College of Horticulture and plant protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Luyi Li
- College of Horticulture and plant protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Shufei Miao
- College of Horticulture and plant protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Xiaobo Huang
- College of Horticulture and plant protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Zhiping Che
- College of Horticulture and plant protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Genqiang Chen
- College of Horticulture and plant protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Shengming Liu
- College of Horticulture and plant protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lau ESW, Zhu B, Sun MA, Ngai SM, Ge W. Proteomic analysis of zebrafish folliculogenesis identifies YB-1 (Ybx1/ybx1) as a potential gatekeeping molecule controlling early ovarian folliculogenesis. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:482-497. [PMID: 37471641 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
As in mammals, ovarian folliculogenesis in teleosts also consists of two phases: the primary growth (PG) and secondary growth (SG) phases, which are analogous to the preantral and antral phases respectively in mammals. In this study, we performed a proteomic analysis on zebrafish follicles undergoing the PG-SG transition aiming to identify factors involved in the event. Numerous proteins showed significant changes, and the most prominent one was Y-box binding protein 1 (YB-1; Ybx1/ybx1), a transcription factor and mRNA-binding protein. YB-1 belongs to the Y-box binding protein family, which also includes the gonad-specific YB-2. Interestingly, phylogenetic analysis showed no YB-2 homolog in zebrafish. Although ybx1 mRNA was expressed in various tissues, its protein Ybx1 was primarily produced in the gonads, similar to YB-2 in other species. In the ovary, Ybx1 protein started to appear in early follicles newly emerged from the germ cell cysts, reached the highest level in late PG oocytes, but decreased precipitously when the follicles entered the SG phase. In PG follicles, Ybx1 might function as a key component of the messenger ribonucleoprotein particles (mRNPs) in association with other RNA-binding proteins. Similar to mammalian YB-1, zebrafish Ybx1 also contains functional signals that determine its intracellular localization. In conclusion, Ybx1 may play dual roles of YB-1 and YB-2 in zebrafish. In the ovary, Ybx1 binds mRNAs to stabilize them while preventing their translation. At PG-SG transition, Ybx1 is removed to release the masked mRNAs for translation into functional proteins, leading to follicle activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esther Shuk-Wa Lau
- School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Bo Zhu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Ming-An Sun
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Sai Ming Ngai
- School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Wei Ge
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Liao X, Tao B, Zhang X, Chen L, Chen J, Song Y, Hu W. Loss of gdnfa disrupts spermiogenesis and male courtship behavior in zebrafish. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 576:112010. [PMID: 37419437 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is essential for establishment and maintenance of reproduction in male vertebrates. Spermatogenesis, which is mainly regulated by the combined action of hormones, growth factors, and epigenetic factors, is highly conserved. Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily. In this study, global gdnfa knockout and Tg (gdnfa: mcherry) transgenic zebrafish lines were generated. Loss of gdnfa resulted in disorganized testes, decreased gonadosomatic index, and low percentage of mature spermatozoa. In the Tg (gdnfa: mcherry) zebrafish line, we found that gdnfa was expressed in Leydig cells. The mutation in gdnfa significantly decreased Leydig cell marker gene expression and androgen secretion in Leydig cells. In addition, courtship behavior was disrupted in the male mutants. We present in vivo data showing that global knockout of gdnfa disrupts spermiogenesis and male courtship behavior in zebrafish. The first viable vertebrate model with a global gdnfa knockout may be valuable for studying the role of GDNF in animal reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianyao Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Binbin Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China.
| | - Xiya Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Lu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ji Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Yanlong Song
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Wei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modem Agriculture, China; Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhai Y, Zhang X, Zhao C, Geng R, Wu K, Yuan M, Ai N, Ge W. Rescue of bmp15 deficiency in zebrafish by mutation of inha reveals mechanisms of BMP15 regulation of folliculogenesis. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1010954. [PMID: 37713421 PMCID: PMC10529593 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
As an oocyte-specific growth factor, bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) plays a critical role in controlling folliculogenesis. However, the mechanism of BMP15 action remains elusive. Using zebrafish as the model, we created a bmp15 mutant using CRISPR/Cas9 and demonstrated that bmp15 deficiency caused a significant delay in follicle activation and puberty onset followed by a complete arrest of follicle development at previtellogenic (PV) stage without yolk accumulation. The mutant females eventually underwent female-to-male sex reversal to become functional males, which was accompanied by a series of changes in secondary sexual characteristics. Interestingly, the blockade of folliculogenesis and sex reversal in bmp15 mutant could be partially rescued by the loss of inhibin (inha-/-). The follicles of double mutant (bmp15-/-;inha-/-) could progress to mid-vitellogenic (MV) stage with yolk accumulation and the fish maintained their femaleness without sex reversal. Transcriptome analysis revealed up-regulation of pathways related to TGF-β signaling and endocytosis in the double mutant follicles. Interestingly, the expression of inhibin/activin βAa subunit (inhbaa) increased significantly in the double mutant ovary. Further knockout of inhbaa in the triple mutant (bmp15-/-;inha-/-;inhbaa-/-) resulted in the loss of yolk granules again. The serum levels of estradiol (E2) and vitellogenin (Vtg) both decreased significantly in bmp15 single mutant females (bmp15-/-), returned to normal in the double mutant (bmp15-/-;inha-/-), but reduced again significantly in the triple mutant (bmp15-/-;inha-/-;inhbaa-/-). E2 treatment could rescue the arrested follicles in bmp15-/-, and fadrozole (a nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor) treatment blocked yolk accumulation in bmp15-/-;inha-/- fish. The loss of inhbaa also caused a reduction of Vtg receptor-like molecules (e.g., lrp1ab and lrp2a). In summary, the present study provided comprehensive genetic evidence that Bmp15 acts together with the activin-inhibin system in the follicle to control E2 production from the follicle, Vtg biosynthesis in the liver and its uptake by the developing oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhai
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
| | - Ruijing Geng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
| | - Kun Wu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
| | - Mingzhe Yuan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
| | - Nana Ai
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
| | - Wei Ge
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chakraborty S, Anand S, Coe S, Reh B, Bhandari RK. The PCOS-NAFLD Multidisease Phenotype Occurred in Medaka Fish Four Generations after the Removal of Bisphenol A Exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:12602-12619. [PMID: 37581432 PMCID: PMC10469501 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c01922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
As a heterogeneous reproductive disorder, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can be caused by genetic, diet, and environmental factors. Bisphenol A (BPA) can induce PCOS and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) due to direct exposure; however, whether these phenotypes persist in future unexposed generations is not currently understood. In a previous study, we observed that transgenerational NAFLD persisted in female medaka for five generations (F4) after exposure to an environmentally relevant concentration (10 μg/L) of BPA. Here, we demonstrate PCOS in the same F4 generation female medaka that developed NAFLD. The ovaries contained immature follicles, restricted follicular progression, and degenerated follicles, which are characteristics of PCOS. Untargeted metabolomic analysis revealed 17 biomarkers in the ovary of BPA lineage fish, whereas transcriptomic analysis revealed 292 genes abnormally expressed, which were similar to human patients with PCOS. Metabolomic-transcriptomic joint pathway analysis revealed activation of the cancerous pathway, arginine-proline metabolism, insulin signaling, AMPK, and HOTAIR regulatory pathways, as well as upstream regulators esr1 and tgf signaling in the ovary. The present results suggest that ancestral BPA exposure can lead to PCOS phenotypes in the subsequent unexposed generations and warrant further investigations into potential health risks in future generations caused by initial exposure to EDCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sourav Chakraborty
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro 27412 North Carolina, United
States
| | - Santosh Anand
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro 27412 North Carolina, United
States
| | - Seraiah Coe
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro 27412 North Carolina, United
States
| | - Beh Reh
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro 27412 North Carolina, United
States
| | - Ramji Kumar Bhandari
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro 27412 North Carolina, United
States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cui M, Wu X, Yuan L, Zhai Y, Liang X, Wang Z, Li J, Xu L, Song W. Exposure to tris(2,6-dimethylphenyl) phosphate interferes with sexual differentiation via estrogen receptors 2a and 2b in zebrafish. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 445:130525. [PMID: 37055955 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Tris(2,6-dimethylphenyl) phosphate (TDMPP), an emerging organophosphate flame retardant, is frequently detected in multiple environmental media. Although TDMPP has been proven as a compound with estrogenic activity, its feminizing effects on reproductive system remain unclear. This study investigated the adverse effects of TDMPP on gonadal development by exposing zebrafish for 105 days from 15 days post-fertilization. Exposure to TDMPP (0.5 and 5 μM, corresponding to about 200 and 2000 μg/L) induced ovarian formation in aromatase mutant (cyp19a1a-/-) line which normally presents all-male phenotype for deficiency of endogenous estrogen (E2), suggesting its feminizing effect on sexual differentiation. In addition, TDMPP also interfered with other aspects of reproduction by delaying puberty onset, retarding sexual maturation, impairing gametogenesis and subfertility. Molecular docking and reporter gene assay indicated that all three nuclear estrogen receptors (nERs) can be binded to and activated by TDMPP. Using a series of nERs mutant lines, we confirmed the indispensable role of esr2a and esr2b in mediating the feminizing effects of TDMPP. Further analysis revealed that the prominent effects of TDMPP on sexual differentiation correlated to upregulation of female-promoting genes and downregulation of male-promoting genes. Taken together, the present study provided unequivocal genetic evidence for estrogenic effects of TDMPP on reproductive system and its molecular mechanisms of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengqiao Cui
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xiling Wu
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Lei Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yue Zhai
- School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Liang
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Zihan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jinhua Li
- School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lichun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.
| | - Weiyi Song
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Insights into Transcriptomic Differences in Ovaries between Lambs and Adult Sheep after Superovulation Treatment. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040665. [PMID: 36830452 PMCID: PMC9951745 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040665] [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: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Superovulation technology shows a great potential for shortening breeding time. Using the juvenile superovulation technology, juvenile animals can generate more follicles than adult animals. By sequencing using high-throughput methods, we studied and described differentially expressed (DE) long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs) and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in the ovaries of young and adult sheep. Herein, 242 DE lncRNAs and 3150 DE mRNAs were screened. Through GO and KEGG analyses, we obtained genes related to ovarian/follicle development and ovulation in DE mRNAs, including OaFSHR, OaLHCGR, OaLDLR, OaZP3, OaSCARB1, and OaPDGFRA; through lncRNA-mRNA correlation analysis, we found that genes associated with ovarian/follicle development or ovulation include: XR_003585520.1, MSTRG.15652.1, XR_003588840.1, and their paired genes PDGFC, LRP5, and LRP1. We observed a synergistic effect between PDGFR and LRP1. PDGFR may play a leading role compared with LRP1. The induced LHCGR in lambs is higher than in adult sheep, showing more sensitivity to LH. The release of the oocytes was stimulated. Among the three lncRNAs, we found that XR_003588840.1 was significantly different and might perform a regulatory role in ovarian/follicle growth or ovulation.
Collapse
|
14
|
Basu U, Riaz Ahmed S, Bhat BA, Anwar Z, Ali A, Ijaz A, Gulzar A, Bibi A, Tyagi A, Nebapure SM, Goud CA, Ahanger SA, Ali S, Mushtaq M. A CRISPR way for accelerating cereal crop improvement: Progress and challenges. Front Genet 2023; 13:866976. [PMID: 36685816 PMCID: PMC9852743 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.866976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans rely heavily on cereal grains as a key source of nutrients, hence regular improvement of cereal crops is essential for ensuring food security. The current food crisis at the global level is due to the rising population and harsh climatic conditions which prompts scientists to develop smart resilient cereal crops to attain food security. Cereal crop improvement in the past generally depended on imprecise methods like random mutagenesis and conventional genetic recombination which results in high off targeting risks. In this context, we have witnessed the application of targeted mutagenesis using versatile CRISPR-Cas systems for cereal crop improvement in sustainable agriculture. Accelerated crop improvement using molecular breeding methods based on CRISPR-Cas genome editing (GE) is an unprecedented tool for plant biotechnology and agriculture. The last decade has shown the fidelity, accuracy, low levels of off-target effects, and the high efficacy of CRISPR technology to induce targeted mutagenesis for the improvement of cereal crops such as wheat, rice, maize, barley, and millets. Since the genomic databases of these cereal crops are available, several modifications using GE technologies have been performed to attain desirable results. This review provides a brief overview of GE technologies and includes an elaborate account of the mechanisms and applications of CRISPR-Cas editing systems to induce targeted mutagenesis in cereal crops for improving the desired traits. Further, we describe recent developments in CRISPR-Cas-based targeted mutagenesis through base editing and prime editing to develop resilient cereal crop plants, possibly providing new dimensions in the field of cereal crop genome editing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Umer Basu
- Division of Entomology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Syed Riaz Ahmed
- Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology College, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (NIAB-C, PIEAS), Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Zunaira Anwar
- Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology College, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (NIAB-C, PIEAS), Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Ahmad Ali
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Aqsa Ijaz
- Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology College, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (NIAB-C, PIEAS), Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Addafar Gulzar
- Division of Plant Pathology, Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Wadura Sopore, India
| | - Amir Bibi
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture Sciences, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Anshika Tyagi
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, South Korea
| | - Suresh M. Nebapure
- Division of Entomology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Chengeshpur Anjali Goud
- Institute of Biotechnology, Professor Jayashanker Telangana State Agriculture University, Hyderabad, India
| | - Shafat Ahmad Ahanger
- Division of Plant Pathology, Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Wadura Sopore, India,*Correspondence: Shafat Ahmad Ahanger, ; Sajad Ali, ; Muntazir Mushtaq,
| | - Sajad Ali
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, South Korea,*Correspondence: Shafat Ahmad Ahanger, ; Sajad Ali, ; Muntazir Mushtaq,
| | - Muntazir Mushtaq
- ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, Division of Germplasm Evaluation, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, India,*Correspondence: Shafat Ahmad Ahanger, ; Sajad Ali, ; Muntazir Mushtaq,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Takahashi T, Ogiwara K. cAMP signaling in ovarian physiology in teleosts: A review. Cell Signal 2023; 101:110499. [PMID: 36273754 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian function in teleosts, like in other vertebrates, is regulated by two distinct gonadotropins, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Gonadotropin effects are mediated by membrane-bound G protein-coupled receptors localized on the surface of follicle cells. Gonadotropin receptor activation results in increased intracellular cAMP, the most important second cellular signaling molecule. FSH stimulation induces the production of 17β-estradiol in the cells of growing follicles to promote vitellogenesis in oocytes. In contrast, in response to LH, fully grown post-vitellogenic follicles gain the ability to synthesize maturation-inducing steroids, which induce meiotic resumption and ovulation. All these events were induced downstream of cAMP. In this review, we summarize studies addressing the role of the cAMP pathway in gonadotropin-induced processes in teleost ovarian follicles. Furthermore, we discuss future problems concerning cAMP signaling in relation to teleost ovarian function and the differences and similarities in the gonadotropin-induced cAMP signaling pathways between mammals and teleosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Takahashi
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Katsueki Ogiwara
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhou Z, Leng C, Wang Z, Long L, Lv Y, Gao Z, Wang Y, Wang S, Li P. The potential regulatory role of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis in teleost fish. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1065357. [PMID: 36895573 PMCID: PMC9988957 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1065357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Research over the past two decades has confirmed that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), which are abundant in cells from yeast to vertebrates, are no longer "junk" transcripts but functional regulators that can mediate various cellular and physiological processes. The dysregulation of ncRNAs is closely related to the imbalance of cellular homeostasis and the occurrence and development of various diseases. In mammals, ncRNAs, such as long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), have been shown to serve as biomarkers and intervention targets in growth, development, immunity, and disease progression. The regulatory functions of lncRNAs on gene expression are usually mediated by crosstalk with miRNAs. The most predominant mode of lncRNA-miRNA crosstalk is the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis, in which lncRNAs act as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs). Compared to mammals, little attention has been given to the role and mechanism of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis in teleost species. In this review, we provide current knowledge about the teleost lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis, focusing on its physiological and pathological regulation in growth and development, reproduction, skeletal muscle, immunity to bacterial and viral infections, and other stress-related immune responses. Herein, we also explored the potential application of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis in the aquaculture industry. These findings contribute to an enhanced understanding of ncRNA and ncRNA-ncRNA crosstalk in fish biology to improve aquaculture productivity, fish health and quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhixia Zhou
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Cuibo Leng
- The Affiliated Qingdao Central Hospital of Qingdao University, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhan Wang
- The Affiliated Qingdao Central Hospital of Qingdao University, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Linhai Long
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yiju Lv
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ziru Gao
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yin Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shoushi Wang
- The Affiliated Qingdao Central Hospital of Qingdao University, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Peifeng Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chen W, Zhai Y, Zhu B, Wu K, Fan Y, Zhou X, Liu L, Ge W. Loss of growth differentiation factor 9 causes an arrest of early folliculogenesis in zebrafish-A novel insight into its action mechanism. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010318. [PMID: 36520929 PMCID: PMC9799306 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) was the first oocyte-specific growth factor identified; however, most information about GDF9 functions comes from studies in the mouse model. In this study, we created a mutant for Gdf9 gene (gdf9-/-) in zebrafish using TALEN approach. The loss of Gdf9 caused a complete arrest of follicle development at primary growth (PG) stage. These follicles eventually degenerated, and all mutant females gradually changed to males through sex reversal, which could be prevented by mutation of the male-promoting gene dmrt1. Interestingly, the phenotypes of gdf9-/- could be rescued by simultaneous mutation of inhibin α (inha-/-) but not estradiol treatment, suggesting a potential role for the activin-inhibin system or its signaling pathway in Gdf9 actions. In gdf9-null follicles, the expression of activin βAa (inhbaa), but not βAb (inhbab) and βB (inhbb), decreased dramatically; however, its expression rebounded in the double mutant (gdf9-/-;inha-/-). These results indicate clearly that the activation of PG follicles to enter the secondary growth (SG) requires intrinsic factors from the oocyte, such as Gdf9, which in turn works on the neighboring follicle cells to trigger follicle activation, probably involving activins. In addition, our data also support the view that estrogens are not involved in follicle activation as recently reported.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weiting Chen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Yue Zhai
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Bo Zhu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Kun Wu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Yuqin Fan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Xianqing Zhou
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Liu
- School of Life Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Ge
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Genetic analysis of activin/inhibin β subunits in zebrafish development and reproduction. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010523. [DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin and inhibin are both dimeric proteins sharing the same β subunits that belong to the TGF-β superfamily. They are well known for stimulating and inhibiting pituitary FSH secretion, respectively, in mammals. In addition, activin also acts as a mesoderm-inducing factor in frogs. However, their functions in development and reproduction of other species are poorly defined. In this study, we disrupted all three activin/inhibin β subunits (βAa, inhbaa; βAb, inhbab; and βB, inhbb) in zebrafish using CRISPR/Cas9. The loss of βAa/b but not βB led to a high mortality rate in the post-hatching stage. Surprisingly, the expression of fshb but not lhb in the pituitary increased in the female βA mutant together with aromatase (cyp19a1a) in the ovary. The single mutant of βAa/b showed normal folliculogenesis in young females; however, their double mutant (inhbaa-/-;inhbab-/-) showed delayed follicle activation, granulosa cell hypertrophy, stromal cell accumulation and tissue fibrosis. The ovary of inhbaa-/- deteriorated progressively after 180 dpf with reduced fecundity and the folliculogenesis ceased completely around 540 dpf. In addition, tumor- or cyst-like tissues started to appear in the inhbaa-/- ovary after about one year. In contrast to females, activin βAa/b mutant males showed normal spermatogenesis and fertility. As for activin βB subunit, the inhbb-/- mutant exhibited normal folliculogenesis, spermatogenesis and fertility in both sexes; however, the fecundity of mutant females decreased dramatically at 270 dpf with accumulation of early follicles. In summary, the activin-inhibin system plays an indispensable role in fish reproduction, in particular folliculogenesis and ovarian homeostasis.
Collapse
|
19
|
Moraes ACND, Fallah HP, de Magalhães VF, Habibi HR. Cylindrospermopsin induces oocyte maturation and disrupts gene expression in zebrafish ovarian follicles. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 94:103915. [PMID: 35750255 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2022.103915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
There is evidence that cylindrospermopsin (CYN) exerts reproductive toxicity in mice. However, little information is available concerning the toxicity of CYN in nonmammalian vertebrates. Here, we investigated the direct action of CYN on female reproduction by studying germinal vesicle breakdown, transcript abundance, caspase-3 activity, and testosterone production using cultured follicle-enclosed zebrafish oocytes as a model system. Treatment of follicles with 1,000 μg/L CYN significantly increased GVBD, Caspase-3 activity, and hCG-induced testosterone secretion. Exposure to CYN also reduced the abundance of 3βhsd as well as hCG-induced fshr and era transcripts and increased cyp19a1 mRNA levels. In summary, this study provides a framework for a better understanding of the adverse action of CYN on female reproduction in zebrafish and other vertebrate species. The findings are also relevant to developing valid biomarkers for CYN by measuring zebrafish oocyte maturation and gene expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Carvalho Natal de Moraes
- Institute of Biophysics Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21.941-902, Brazil; Department of Biological Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.
| | | | - Valéria Freitas de Magalhães
- Institute of Biophysics Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21.941-902, Brazil
| | - Hamid R Habibi
- Department of Biological Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Transcriptomes of testis and pituitary from male Nile tilapia (O. niloticus L.) in the context of social status. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268140. [PMID: 35544481 PMCID: PMC9094562 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
African cichlids are well established models for studying social hierarchies in teleosts and elucidating the effects social dominance has on gene expression. Ascension in the social hierarchy has been found to increase plasma levels of steroid hormones, follicle stimulating hormone (Fsh) and luteinizing hormone (Lh) as well as gonadosomatic index (GSI). Furthermore, the expression of genes related to gonadotropins and steroidogenesis and signaling along the brain-pituitary-gonad axis (BPG-axis) is affected by changes of an animal’s social status. In this study, we use RNA-sequencing to obtain an in-depth look at the transcriptomes of testes and pituitaries from dominant and subordinate male Nile tilapia living in long-term stable social hierarchies. This allows us to draw conclusions about factors along the brain-pituitary-gonad axis that are involved in maintaining dominance over weeks or even months. We identify a number of genes that are differentially regulated between dominant and subordinate males and show that in high-ranking fish this subset of genes is generally upregulated. Genes differentially expressed between the two social groups comprise growth factors, related binding proteins and receptors, components of Wnt-, Tgfβ- and retinoic acid-signaling pathway, gonadotropin signaling and steroidogenesis pathways. The latter is backed up by elevated levels of 11-ketotestosterone, testosterone and estradiol in dominant males. Luteinizing hormone (Lh) is found in higher concentration in the plasma of long-term dominant males than in subordinate animals. Our results both strengthen the existing models and propose new candidates for functional studies to expand our understanding of social phenomena in teleost fish.
Collapse
|
21
|
Tsakoumis E, Ahi EP, Schmitz M. Impaired leptin signaling causes subfertility in female zebrafish. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 546:111595. [PMID: 35139421 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction is an energetically costly event across vertebrates and tightly linked to nutritional status and energy reserves. In mammals, the hormone leptin is considered as a link between energy homeostasis and reproduction. However, its role in fish reproduction is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the possible role of leptin in the regulation of reproduction in zebrafish, using a loss of function leptin receptor (lepr) strain. Impaired leptin signaling resulted in severe reproductive deficiencies in female zebrafish. lepr mutant females laid significantly fewer eggs, with low fertilization rates compared to wild-type females. Folliculogenesis was not affected, but oocyte maturation and ovulation were disrupted in lepr mutants. Interestingly, the expression of luteinizing hormone beta (lhb) in the pituitary was significantly lower in mutant females. Analysis of candidate genes in the ovaries and isolated fully grown follicles revealed differential expression of genes involved in steroidogenesis, oocyte maturation and ovulation in the mutants, which are known to be regulated by LH signaling. Moreover, subfertility in lepr mutants could be partially restored by administration of human chorionic gonadotropin. In conclusion, our results show that leptin deficiency does not affect early stages of follicular development, but leptin might be essential in later steps, such as in oocyte maturation and ovulation. To our knowledge, this is the first time that leptin is associated to reproductive deficiencies in zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanouil Tsakoumis
- Department of Organismal Biology, Environmental Toxicology, Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Ehsan Pashay Ahi
- Organismal and Evolutionary Biology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Monika Schmitz
- Department of Organismal Biology, Environmental Toxicology, Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Pan YJ, Tong SK, Hsu CW, Weng JH, Chung BC. Zebrafish Establish Female Germ Cell Identity by Advancing Cell Proliferation and Meiosis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:866267. [PMID: 35445010 PMCID: PMC9013747 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.866267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish is a popular research model; but its mechanism of sex determination is unclear and the sex of juvenile fish cannot be distinguished. To obtain fish with defined sex, we crossed domesticated zebrafish with the Nadia strain that has a female-dominant W segment. These fish were placed on a ziwi:GFP background to facilitate sorting of fluorescent germ cells for transcriptomic analysis. We analyzed the transcriptomes of germ cells at 10–14 days postfertilization (dpf), when sex dimorphic changes started to appear. Gene ontology showed that genes upregulated in the 10-dpf presumptive females are involved in cell cycles. This correlates with our detection of increased germ cell numbers and proliferation. We also detected upregulation of meiotic genes in the presumptive females at 14 dpf. Disruption of a meiotic gene, sycp3, resulted in sex reversal to infertile males. The germ cells of sycp3 mutants could not reach diplotene and underwent apoptosis. Preventing apoptosis by disrupting tp53 restored female characteristics in sycp3 mutants, demonstrating that adequate germ cells are required for female development. Thus, our transcriptome and gene mutation demonstrate that initial germ cell proliferation followed by meiosis is the hallmark of female differentiation in zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- You-Jiun Pan
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institue of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sok-Keng Tong
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chen-wei Hsu
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Hsia Weng
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Bon-chu Chung
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Bon-chu Chung,
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Qin M, Xie Q, Wu K, Zhou X, Ge W. Loss of Nobox prevents ovarian differentiation from juvenile ovaries in zebrafish. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:1254-1266. [PMID: 35157068 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As a species without master sex-determining genes, zebrafish displays high plasticity in sex differentiation, making it an excellent model for studying the regulatory mechanisms underlying gonadal differentiation and gametogenesis. Despite being a gonochorist, zebrafish is a juvenile hermaphrodite that undergoes a special phase of juvenile ovary before further differentiation into functional testis and ovary. The mechanisms underlying juvenile ovary formation and subsequent gonadal differentiation remain largely unknown. In a recent study, we demonstrated an important role for Figla (factor in the germline alpha) in zebrafish oogenesis. In this study, we explored the role of Nobox/nobox (new born ovary homeobox protein), another oocyte-specific transcription factor in females, in early zebrafish gonadogenesis using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. As in mammals, nobox is specifically expressed in zebrafish gonads with a dimorphic pattern at juvenile stage. In contrast to the mutant of figla (another oocyte-specific transcription factor), the nobox mutants showed formation of typical perinucleolar (PN) follicles at primary growth (PG) stage in juvenile gonads, suggesting occurrence of follicle assembly from cystic oocytes (chromatin nucleolar stage, CN). These follicles, however, failed to develop further to form functional ovaries, resulting in all-male phenotype. Despite its expression in adult testis, the loss of nobox did not seem to affect testis development, spermatogenesis and male spawning. In summary, our results indicate an important role for Nobox in zebrafish ovarian differentiation and early folliculogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Qin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Qingping Xie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China.,Institute of Hydrobiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kun Wu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China.,State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianqing Zhou
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Ge
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ryu JH, Xu L, Wong TT. Advantages, Factors, Obstacles, Potential Solutions, and Recent Advances of Fish Germ Cell Transplantation for Aquaculture-A Practical Review. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12040423. [PMID: 35203131 PMCID: PMC8868515 DOI: 10.3390/ani12040423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This review aims to provide practical information and viewpoints regarding fish germ cell transplantation for enhancing its commercial applications. We reviewed and summarized the data from more than 70 important studies and described the advantages, obstacles, recent advances, and future perspectives of fish germ cell transplantation. We concluded and proposed the critical factors for achieving better success and various options for germ cell transplantation with their pros and cons. Additionally, we discussed why this technology has not actively been utilized for commercial purposes, what barriers need to be overcome, and what potential solutions can advance its applications in aquaculture. Abstract Germ cell transplantation technology enables surrogate offspring production in fish. This technology has been expected to mitigate reproductive barriers, such as long generation time, limited fecundity, and complex broodstock management, enhancing seed production and productivity in aquaculture. Many studies of germ cell transplantation in various fish species have been reported over a few decades. So far, surrogate offspring production has been achieved in many commercial species. In addition, the knowledge of fish germ cell biology and the related technologies that can enhance transplantation efficiency and productivity has been developed. Nevertheless, the commercial application of this technology still seems to lag behind, indicating that the established models are neither beneficial nor cost-effective enough to attract potential commercial users of this technology. Furthermore, there are existing bottlenecks in practical aspects such as impractical shortening of generation time, shortage of donor cells with limited resources, low efficiency, and unsuccessful surrogate offspring production in some fish species. These obstacles need to be overcome through further technology developments. Thus, we thoroughly reviewed the studies on fish germ cell transplantation reported to date, focusing on the practicality, and proposed potential solutions and future perspectives.
Collapse
|
25
|
Roles of Gonadotropin Receptors in Sexual Development of Medaka. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030387. [PMID: 35159197 PMCID: PMC8834109 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The gonadotropins, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), are secreted from the pituitary and bind to the FSH receptor (FSHR) and LH receptor (LHR) to regulate gonadal development in vertebrates. Previously, using fshr-knockout (KO) medaka (Oryzias latipes), we demonstrated that FSH regulates ovarian development by elevating estrogen levels. However, the lhr-KO phenotype in medaka is poorly characterized. Here, we generated lhr-KO medaka using the transcription activator-like effector nuclease (TALEN) technique. We analyzed its phenotype and that of fshr-KO, lhr;fshr double-heterozygotes (double-hetero), and double-KO fish. All genetically male medaka displayed normal testes and were fertile, whereas fshr-KO and double-KO genetically female fish displayed small ovaries containing many early pre-vitellogenic oocytes and were infertile. Although lhr-KO genetically female fish had normal ovaries with full-grown oocytes, ovulation did not occur. Levels of 17α,20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one, which is required for meiotic maturation of oocytes and sperm maturation in teleost fish, were significantly decreased in all KO female medaka ovaries except for double-heteros. Further, 17β-estradiol levels in fshr-KO and double-KO ovaries were significantly lower than those in double-heteros. These findings indicate that LH is necessary for oocyte maturation and FSH is necessary for follicle development, but that neither are essential for spermatogenesis in medaka.
Collapse
|
26
|
Song Y, Chen W, Zhu B, Ge W. Disruption of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor but Not EGF Blocks Follicle Activation in Zebrafish Ovary. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:750888. [PMID: 35111746 PMCID: PMC8802807 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.750888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Folliculogenesis is controlled by intimate communications between oocytes and surrounding follicle cells. Epidermal growth factor (EGF/Egf) is an important paracrine/autocrine factor in vertebrate ovary, and it is well known for its stimulation of oocyte maturation. However, the role of EGF signaling through its receptor (EGFR/Egfr) in ovarian folliculogenesis is poorly understood, especially at early stages of follicle development. In this study, we created zebrafish mutants for Egf (egf−/−) and Egfr (egfra−/− and egfrb−/−) by CRISPR/Cas9 technique. Surprisingly, these mutants all survived well with little abnormality in growth and development. Spermatogenesis and folliculogenesis were both normal in egf−/− males and females. Their fecundity was comparable to that of the wildtype fish at 4 months post-fertilization (mpf); however, the fertilization rate of mutant eggs (egf−/−) decreased significantly at 7 mpf. Interestingly, disruption of egfra (egfra−/−) led to failed follicle activation with folliculogenesis being blocked at primary–secondary growth transition (PG-SG transition), leading to female infertility, whereas the mutant males remained fertile. The mutant ovary (egfra−/−) showed abnormal expression of a substantial number of genes involved in oxidative metabolism, gene transcription, cytomembrane transport, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and immune response. The stunted PG oocytes in egfra−/− ovary eventually underwent degeneration after 6 months followed by sex reversal to males with functional testes. No abnormal phenotypes were found in the mutant of truncated form of EGFR (egfrb). In summary, our data revealed critical roles for EGFR signaling in early folliculogenesis, especially at the PG-SG transition or follicle activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Wei Ge
- *Correspondence: Wei Ge, ,
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Jiang DN, Peng YX, Liu XY, Mustapha UF, Huang YQ, Shi HJ, Li MH, Li GL, Wang DS. Homozygous Mutation of gsdf Causes Infertility in Female Nile Tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus). Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:813320. [PMID: 35242110 PMCID: PMC8886716 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.813320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadal somatic cell-derived factor (Gsdf) is a member of the TGF-β superfamily, which exists mainly in fishes. Homozygous gsdf mutations in Japanese medaka and zebrafish resulted in infertile females, and the reasons for their infertility remain unknown. This study presents functional studies of Gsdf in ovary development using CRISPR/Cas9 in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The XX wild type (WT) female fish regularly reproduced from 12 months after hatching (mah), while the XX gsdf-/- female fish never reproduced and were infertile. Histological observation showed that at 24 mah, number of phase IV oocyte in the XX gsdf-/- female fish was significantly lower than that of the WT fish, although their gonadosomatic index (GSI) was similar. However, the GSI of the XX gsdf-/- female at 6 mah was higher than that of the WT. The mutated ovaries were hyperplastic with more phase I oocytes. Transcriptome analysis identified 344 and 51 up- and down-regulated genes in mutants compared with the WT ovaries at 6 mah. Some TGF-β signaling genes that are critical for ovary development in fish were differentially expressed. Genes such as amh and amhr2 were up-regulated, while inhbb and acvr2a were down-regulated in mutant ovaries. The cyp19a1a, the key gene for estrogen synthesis, was not differentially expressed. Moreover, the serum 17β-estradiol (E2) concentrations between XX gsdf-/- and WT were similar at 6 and 24 mah. Results from real-time PCR and immunofluorescence experiments were similar and validated the transcriptome data. Furthermore, Yeast-two-hybrid assays showed that Gsdf interacts with TGF-β type II receptors (Amhr2 and Bmpr2a). Altogether, these results suggest that Gsdf functions together with TGF-β signaling pathway to control ovary development and fertility. This study contributes to knowledge on the function of Gsdf in fish oogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Neng Jiang
- Guangdong Province Famous Fish Reproduction Regulation and Breeding Engineering Technology Research Center, Fisheries College of Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - You-Xing Peng
- Guangdong Province Famous Fish Reproduction Regulation and Breeding Engineering Technology Research Center, Fisheries College of Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Xing-Yong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Umar Farouk Mustapha
- Guangdong Province Famous Fish Reproduction Regulation and Breeding Engineering Technology Research Center, Fisheries College of Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yuan-Qing Huang
- Guangdong Province Famous Fish Reproduction Regulation and Breeding Engineering Technology Research Center, Fisheries College of Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Hong-Juan Shi
- Guangdong Province Famous Fish Reproduction Regulation and Breeding Engineering Technology Research Center, Fisheries College of Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Ming-Hui Li
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guang-Li Li
- Guangdong Province Famous Fish Reproduction Regulation and Breeding Engineering Technology Research Center, Fisheries College of Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - De-Shou Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: De-Shou Wang,
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Shen X, Yan H, Jiang J, Li W, Xiong Y, Liu Q, Liu Y. Profile of gene expression changes during estrodiol-17β-induced feminization in the Takifugu rubripes brain. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:851. [PMID: 34819041 PMCID: PMC8614003 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-08158-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As the critical tissue of the central nervous system, the brain has been found to be involved in gonad development. Previous studies have suggested that gonadal fate may be affected by the brain. Identifying brain-specific molecular changes that occur during estrodiol-17β (E2) -induced feminization is crucial to our understanding of the molecular control of sex differentiation by the brains of fish. Results In this study, the differential transcriptomic responses of the Takifugu rubripes larvae brain were compared after E2 treatment for 55 days. Our results showed that 514 genes were differentially expressed between E2-treated-XX (E-XX) and Control-XX (C-XX) T. rubripes, while 362 genes were differentially expressed between E2-treated-XY (E-XY) and Control-XY (C-XY). For example, the expression of cyp19a1b, gnrh1 and pgr was significantly up-regulated, while st, sl, tshβ, prl and pit-1, which belong to the growth hormone/prolactin family, were significantly down-regulated after E2 treatment, in both sexes. The arntl1, bhlbe, nr1d2, per1b, per3, cry1, cipc and ciart genes, which are involved in the circadian rhythm, were also found to be altered. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were identified between E-XX and C-XX, were significantly enriched in neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, arachidonic acid metabolism, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction and the calcium signaling pathway. The DEGs that were identified between E-XY and C-XY were significantly enriched in tyrosine metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism and linoleic acid metabolism. Conclusion A number of genes and pathways were identified in the brain of E2-treated T. rubripes larvae by RNA-seq. It provided the opportunity for further study on the possible involvement of networks in the brain-pituitary-gonadal axis in sex differentiation in T. rubripes. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-021-08158-0.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xufang Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116029, Liaoning, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment Controlled Aquaculture (Dalian Ocean University) Ministry of Education, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Hongwei Yan
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, China.
| | - Jieming Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Environment Controlled Aquaculture (Dalian Ocean University) Ministry of Education, Dalian, 116023, China.,College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, China
| | - Weiyuan Li
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, China
| | - Yuyu Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Environment Controlled Aquaculture (Dalian Ocean University) Ministry of Education, Dalian, 116023, China.,College of Marine Science and Environment Engineering, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, China
| | - Qi Liu
- College of Marine Science and Environment Engineering, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, China.
| | - Ying Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environment Controlled Aquaculture (Dalian Ocean University) Ministry of Education, Dalian, 116023, China.,College of Marine Science and Environment Engineering, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Trudeau VL. Neuroendocrine Control of Reproduction in Teleost Fish: Concepts and Controversies. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2021; 10:107-130. [PMID: 34788545 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-020420-042015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
During the teleost radiation, extensive development of the direct innervation mode of hypothalamo-pituitary communication was accompanied by loss of the median eminence typical of mammals. Cells secreting follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone cells are directly innervated, distinct populations in the anterior pituitary. So far, ∼20 stimulatory and ∼10 inhibitory neuropeptides, 3 amines, and 3 amino acid neurotransmitters are implicated in the control of reproduction. Positive and negative sex steroid feedback loops operate in both sexes. Gene mutation models in zebrafish and medaka now challenge our general understanding of vertebrate neuropeptidergic control. New reproductive neuropeptides are emerging. These include but are not limited to nesfatin 1, neurokinin B, and the secretoneurins. A generalized model for the neuroendocrine control of reproduction is proposed. Hopefully, this will serve as a research framework on diverse species to help explain the evolution of neuroendocrine control and lead to the discovery of new hormones with novel applications. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Animal Biosciences, Volume 10 is February 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vance L Trudeau
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; ,
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Kratochvíl L, Gamble T, Rovatsos M. Sex chromosome evolution among amniotes: is the origin of sex chromosomes non-random? Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200108. [PMID: 34304592 PMCID: PMC8310715 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex chromosomes are a great example of a convergent evolution at the genomic level, having evolved dozens of times just within amniotes. An intriguing question is whether this repeated evolution was random, or whether some ancestral syntenic blocks have significantly higher chance to be co-opted for the role of sex chromosomes owing to their gene content related to gonad development. Here, we summarize current knowledge on the evolutionary history of sex determination and sex chromosomes in amniotes and evaluate the hypothesis of non-random emergence of sex chromosomes. The current data on the origin of sex chromosomes in amniotes suggest that their evolution is indeed non-random. However, this non-random pattern is not very strong, and many syntenic blocks representing putatively independently evolved sex chromosomes are unique. Still, repeatedly co-opted chromosomes are an excellent model system, as independent co-option of the same genomic region for the role of sex chromosome offers a great opportunity for testing evolutionary scenarios on the sex chromosome evolution under the explicit control for the genomic background and gene identity. Future studies should use these systems more to explore the convergent/divergent evolution of sex chromosomes. This article is part of the theme issue 'Challenging the paradigm in sex chromosome evolution: empirical and theoretical insights with a focus on vertebrates (Part II)'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lukáš Kratochvíl
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tony Gamble
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Bell Museum of Natural History, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, USA
- Milwaukee Public Museum, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Michail Rovatsos
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Tao W, Shi H, Yang J, Diakite H, Kocher TD, Wang D. Homozygous mutation of foxh1 arrests oogenesis causing infertility in female Nile tilapia†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:758-769. [PMID: 31837141 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 10/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Foxh1, a member of fox gene family, was first characterized as a transcriptional partner in the formation of the Smad protein complex. Recent studies have shown foxh1 is highly expressed in the cytoplasm of oocytes in both tilapia and mouse. However, its function in oogenesis remains unexplored. In the present study, foxh1-/- tilapia was created by CRISPR/Cas9. At 180 dah (days after hatching), the foxh1-/- XX fish showed oogenesis arrest and a significantly lower GSI. The transition of oocytes from phase II to phase III and follicle cells from one to two layers was blocked, resulting in infertility of the mutant. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that expression of genes involved in estrogen synthesis and oocyte growth were altered in the foxh1-/- ovaries. Loss of foxh1 resulted in significantly decreased Cyp19a1a and increased Cyp11b2 expression, consistent with significantly lower concentrations of serum estradiol-17β (E2) and higher concentrations of 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT). Moreover, administration of E2 rescued the phenotypes of foxh1-/- XX fish, as indicated by the appearance of phase III and IV oocytes and absence of Cyp11b2 expression. Taken together, these results suggest that foxh1 functions in the oocytes to regulate oogenesis by promoting cyp19a1a expression, and therefore estrogen production. Disruption of foxh1 may block the estrogen synthesis and oocyte growth, leading to the arrest of oogenesis and thus infertility in tilapia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Tao
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Hongjuan Shi
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.,Guangdong Research Center on Reproductive Control and Breeding Technology of Indigenous Valuable Fish Species, Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Aquaculture Environment of Zhanjiang, Key Laboratory of Aquaculture in South China Sea for Aquatic Economic Animal of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Fisheries College, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China and
| | - Jing Yang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Hamidou Diakite
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Thomas D Kocher
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Deshou Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lu J, Fang W, Huang J, Li S. The application of genome editing technology in fish. MARINE LIFE SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 3:326-346. [PMID: 37073287 PMCID: PMC10077250 DOI: 10.1007/s42995-021-00091-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The advent and development of genome editing technology has opened up the possibility of directly targeting and modifying genomic sequences in the field of life sciences with rapid developments occurring in the last decade. As a powerful tool to decipher genome data at the molecular biology level, genome editing technology has made important contributions to elucidating many biological problems. Currently, the three most widely used genome editing technologies include: zinc finger nucleases (ZFN), transcription activator like effector nucleases (TALEN), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR). Researchers are still striving to create simpler, more efficient, and accurate techniques, such as engineered base editors and new CRISPR/Cas systems, to improve editing efficiency and reduce off-target rate, as well as a near-PAMless SpCas9 variants to expand the scope of genome editing. As one of the important animal protein sources, fish has significant economic value in aquaculture. In addition, fish is indispensable for research as it serves as the evolutionary link between invertebrates and higher vertebrates. Consequently, genome editing technologies were applied extensively in various fish species for basic functional studies as well as applied research in aquaculture. In this review, we focus on the application of genome editing technologies in fish species detailing growth, gender, and pigmentation traits. In addition, we have focused on the construction of a zebrafish (Danio rerio) disease model and high-throughput screening of functional genes. Finally, we provide some of the future perspectives of this technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianguo Lu
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai, 519082 China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai, 519080 China
| | - Wenyu Fang
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai, 519082 China
| | - Junrou Huang
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai, 519082 China
| | - Shizhu Li
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai, 519082 China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Segev-Hadar A, Slosman T, Rozen A, Sherman A, Cnaani A, Biran J. Genome Editing Using the CRISPR-Cas9 System to Generate a Solid-Red Germline of Nile Tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus). CRISPR J 2021; 4:583-594. [PMID: 34406049 DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2020.0115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been increasing demand for red tilapia, which are commercial strains of hybrids of different tilapiine species or red variants of highly inbred Nile tilapia. However, red tilapia phenotypes are genetically unstable and affected by environmental factors, resulting in nonuniform coloration with black or dark-red color blotches that reduce their market value. Solute carrier family 45 member 2 (SLC45A2) is a membrane transporter that mediates melanin biosynthesis and is evolutionarily conserved from fish to humans. In the present study, we describe the generation of a stable and heritable red tilapia phenotype by inducing loss-of-function mutations in the slc45a2 gene. For this purpose, we identified the slc45a2 gene in Nile tilapia and designed highly specific guide RNAs (gRNA) for its genomic sequence. Multiplex microinjection of slc45a2-specific ribonucleoproteins to Nile tilapia zygotes induced up to 97-99% albinism, including loss of melanin in the eye. Next-generation sequencing of the injected zygotes demonstrated that all injected fish carried mutant alleles with variable mutagenesis efficiencies. Sanger sequencing of the genomic target region in the slc45a2 gene from fin clips, sperm, and F1 offspring of a highly mutant male identified various genomic indels and germline transmission of the sperm-identified indels. Overall, this work demonstrates the generation of somatic and germline slc45a2 mutant alleles, which leads to complete albinism in Nile tilapia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adi Segev-Hadar
- Department of Poultry and Aquaculture, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, Israel; and Institute of Plant Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, Israel
| | - Tatiana Slosman
- Department of Poultry and Aquaculture, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, Israel; and Institute of Plant Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, Israel
| | - Ada Rozen
- Department of Fruit Trees Sciences, Institute of Plant Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, Israel
| | - Amir Sherman
- Department of Fruit Trees Sciences, Institute of Plant Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, Israel
| | - Avner Cnaani
- Department of Poultry and Aquaculture, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, Israel; and Institute of Plant Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, Israel
| | - Jakob Biran
- Department of Poultry and Aquaculture, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, Israel; and Institute of Plant Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Fujimoto T, Nishimura T. Chromosome Set Manipulation and Genome Manipulation in Aquaculture. J JPN SOC FOOD SCI 2021. [DOI: 10.3136/nskkk.68.277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
|
35
|
Curzon AY, Dor L, Shirak A, Meiri-Ashkenazi I, Rosenfeld H, Ron M, Seroussi E. A novel c.1759T>G variant in follicle-stimulating hormone-receptor gene is concordant with male determination in the flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus). G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2021; 11:6046932. [PMID: 33589926 PMCID: PMC8022982 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkaa044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Various master key regulators (MKRs) that control a binary switch of sex determination (SD) have been found in fish; these provide an excellent model for the study of vertebrate genetic SD. The SD region in flathead grey mullet has been previously mapped to a 1 Mbp region harboring 27 genes, of which one is follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (fshr). Although this gene is involved in gonad differentiation and function, it has not been considered as an MKR of SD. We systematically investigated polymorphism in mullet fshr using DNA shotgun sequences, and compared them between males and females. Capable of encoding nonconservative amino acid substitutions, c.1732G>A and c.1759T>G exhibited association with sex on a population level (N = 83; P ≤ 6.7 × 10-19). Hence, 1732 A and 1759 G represent a male-specific haplotype of the gene, designated as "fshry." Additional flanking SNPs showed a weaker degree of association with sex, delimiting the SD critical region to 143 nucleotides on exon 14. Lack of homozygotes for fshry, and the resulting divergence from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (N = 170; P ≤ 3.9 × 10-5), were compatible with a male heterogametic model (XY/XX). Capable of replacing a phenylalanine with valine, c.1759T>G alters a conserved position across the sixth transmembrane domain of vertebrate FSHRs. Amino acid substitutions in this position in vertebrates are frequently associated with constant receptor activation and consequently with FSH/FSHR signaling alteration; thus, indicating a potential role of fshr as an MKR of SD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arie Y Curzon
- Agricultural Research Organization, Institute of Animal Science, Rishon LeTsiyon, 7528809, Israel.,Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Lior Dor
- Agricultural Research Organization, Institute of Animal Science, Rishon LeTsiyon, 7528809, Israel.,Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Andrey Shirak
- Agricultural Research Organization, Institute of Animal Science, Rishon LeTsiyon, 7528809, Israel
| | - Iris Meiri-Ashkenazi
- National Center for Mariculture, Israel Oceanographic and Limnological Research, Eilat 88112, Israel
| | - Hana Rosenfeld
- National Center for Mariculture, Israel Oceanographic and Limnological Research, Eilat 88112, Israel
| | - Micha Ron
- Agricultural Research Organization, Institute of Animal Science, Rishon LeTsiyon, 7528809, Israel
| | - Eyal Seroussi
- Agricultural Research Organization, Institute of Animal Science, Rishon LeTsiyon, 7528809, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Pan Z, Zhu C, Chang G, Wu N, Ding H, Wang H. Differential expression analysis and identification of sex-related genes by gonad transcriptome sequencing in estradiol-treated and non-treated Ussuri catfish Pseudobagrus ussuriensis. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2021; 47:565-581. [PMID: 33523351 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-021-00932-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The Ussuri catfish (Pseudobagrus ussuriensis) has an XX/XY sex determination system but its sex determination gene(s) remain unknown. To better understand the molecular sex determination mechanism, transcriptome analysis was conducted to obtain sex-related gene expression profiles. Transcriptome analyses were made of male and female developing/differentiating gonads by high-throughput RNA sequencing, including gonads from fish given an estradiol-induced sex reversal treatment. A total of 81,569 unigenes were assembled and 39,904 were significantly matched to known unique proteins by comparison with public databases. Twenty specifically expressed and 142 differentially expressed sex-related genes were extracted from annotated data by comparing the treatment groups. These genes are involved in spermatogenesis (e.g., Dnali1, nectin3, klhl10, mybl1, Katnal1, Eno4, Mns1, Spag6, Tsga10, Septin7), oogenesis (e.g., Lagr5, Fmn2, Npm2, zar1, Fbxo5, Fbxo43, Prdx4, Nrip1, Lfng, Atrip), gonadal development/differentiation (e.g., Cxcr4b, Hmgb2, Cftr, Ch25h, brip1, Prdm9, Tdrd1, Star, dmrt1, Tut4, Hsd17b12a, gdf9, dnd, arf1, Spata22), and estradiol response (e.g., Mmp14, Lhcgr, vtg1, vtg2, esr2b, Piwil1, Aifm1, Hsf1, gdf9). Dmrt1 and gdf9 may play an essential role in sex determination in P. ussuriensis. The expression patterns of six random genes were validated by quantitative real-time PCR, which confirmed the reliability and accuracy of the RNA-seq results. These data provide a valuable resource for future studies of gene expression and for understanding the molecular mechanism of sex determination/differentiation and gonadal development/differentiation (including hormone-induced sexual reversal) in Ussuri catfish. This has the potential to assist in producing monosex Ussuri catfish to increase aquacultural productivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- ZhengJun Pan
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Breeding of Special Aquatic Organisms, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, 223300, China.
| | - ChuanKun Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Breeding of Special Aquatic Organisms, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, 223300, China
| | - GuoLiang Chang
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Breeding of Special Aquatic Organisms, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, 223300, China
| | - Nan Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Breeding of Special Aquatic Organisms, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, 223300, China
| | - HuaiYu Ding
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Breeding of Special Aquatic Organisms, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, 223300, China
| | - Hui Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Breeding of Special Aquatic Organisms, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, 223300, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Improving the sexual activity and reproduction of female zebrafish with high testosterone levels. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3822. [PMID: 33589678 PMCID: PMC7884839 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83085-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
High levels of testosterone cause clinical symptoms in female reproduction and possibly, alterations in sexuality. Yet, the underlying mechanisms remain to be examined. Here, we report a study that investigates the effects of testosterone in follicle development and sexual mating using zebrafish models. We developed an acute zebrafish model with high testosterone levels by exposing young female zebrafish to testosterone dissolved in swimming water. After given a high concentration of testosterone treatment (e.g., 100 ng/ml), the fish showed hallmark pathological symptoms similar to those displayed in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), such as follicular growth-arrest, rare ovulation, ovary enlargement, decrease in reproduction, and down regulation of the expression of some PCOS susceptible genes, such as Tox3. These fish are referred to as the PCOS fish. By monitoring mating-like swimming behaviors, we measured the sexual activity of PCOS zebrafish. In general, the PCOS fish showed no desire to interact with males. As a consequence, their mating rate was decreased as compared to control animals. The sexuality levels of PCOS fish, however, could be improved after short periods of rearing in conditions that lack of males. After only 3 days of rearing alone, the PCOS fish showed an increase in sexuality levels and displayed characteristic swimming patterns for mating. After 30 days of separation from males, not only the sexual activity, but also the mating rate was improved in the PCOS fish. Together, the data suggests that zebrafish can serve as a new type of research model to further develop strategies for the treatment of reproductive disorders, such as those related to PCOS.
Collapse
|
38
|
Wu J, Li D, Liu X, Li Q, He X, Wei J, Li X, Li M, Rehman AU, Xia Y, Wu C, Zhang J, Lu X. IDDB: a comprehensive resource featuring genes, variants and characteristics associated with infertility. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:D1218-D1224. [PMID: 32941628 PMCID: PMC7779019 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a complex multifactorial disease that affects up to 10% of couples across the world. However, many mechanisms of infertility remain unclear due to the lack of studies based on systematic knowledge, leading to ineffective treatment and/or transmission of genetic defects to offspring. Here, we developed an infertility disease database to provide a comprehensive resource featuring various factors involved in infertility. Features in the current IDDB version were manually curated as follows: (i) a total of 307 infertility-associated genes in human and 1348 genes associated with reproductive disorder in 9 model organisms; (ii) a total of 202 chromosomal abnormalities leading to human infertility, including aneuploidies and structural variants; and (iii) a total of 2078 pathogenic variants from infertility patients’ samples across 60 different diseases causing infertility. Additionally, the characteristics of clinically diagnosed infertility patients (i.e. causative variants, laboratory indexes and clinical manifestations) were collected. To the best of our knowledge, the IDDB is the first infertility database serving as a systematic resource for biologists to decipher infertility mechanisms and for clinicians to achieve better diagnosis/treatment of patients from disease phenotype to genetic factors. The IDDB is freely available at http://mdl.shsmu.edu.cn/IDDB/.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200011, China.,Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Danjun Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200011, China.,Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xinyi Liu
- Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Qian Li
- Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xinheng He
- Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jiale Wei
- Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xinyi Li
- Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Mingyu Li
- Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ashfaq Ur Rehman
- Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yujia Xia
- Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Chengwei Wu
- Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200025, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xuefeng Lu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai 200011, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Wu GC, Dufour S, Chang CF. Molecular and cellular regulation on sex change in hermaphroditic fish, with a special focus on protandrous black porgy, Acanthopagrus schlegelii. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 520:111069. [PMID: 33127483 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.111069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In teleost fish, sex can be determined by genetic factors, environmental factors, or both. Unlike in gonochoristic fish, in which sex is fixed in adults, sex can change in adults of hermaphroditic fish species. Thus, sex is generated during the initial gonadal differentiation stage (primary sex differentiation) and later during sexual fate alternation (secondary sex differentiation) in hermaphroditic fish species. Depending on the species, sex phase alternation can be induced by endogenous cues (such as individual age and body size) or by social cues (such as sex ratio or relative body size within the population). In general, the fluctuation in plasma estradiol-17β (E2) levels is correlated with the sexual fate alternation in hermaphroditic fish. Hormonal treatments can artificially induce sexual phase alternation in sequential hermaphroditic fishes, but in a transient and reversible manner. This is the case for the E2-induced female phase in protandrous black porgy and the methyltestosterone (MT)- or aromatase inhibitor (AI)-induced male phase in protogynous grouper. Recent reviews have focused on the different forms of sex change in fish who undergo sequential sex change, especially in terms of gene expression and the role of hormones. In this review, we use the protandrous black porgy, a nonsocial cue-influenced hermaphroditic species, with digonic gonads (ovarian and testis separated by a connective tissue), as a model to describe our findings and discuss the molecular and cellular regulation of sexual fate determination in hermaphroditic fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guan-Chung Wu
- Department of Aquaculture, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, 20224, Taiwan; Center of Excellence for the Oceans, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, 20224, Taiwan
| | - Sylvie Dufour
- Laboratory Biology of Aquatic Organisms and Ecosystems (BOREA), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, IRD, Sorbonne Université, Université de Caen Normandie, Université des Antilles, 75231, Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Ching-Fong Chang
- Department of Aquaculture, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, 20224, Taiwan; Center of Excellence for the Oceans, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, 20224, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Querat B. Unconventional Actions of Glycoprotein Hormone Subunits: A Comprehensive Review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:731966. [PMID: 34671318 PMCID: PMC8522476 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.731966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The glycoprotein hormones (GPH) are heterodimers composed of a common α subunit and a specific β subunit. They act by activating specific leucine-rich repeat G protein-coupled receptors. However, individual subunits have been shown to elicit responses in cells devoid of the receptor for the dimeric hormones. The α subunit is involved in prolactin production from different tissues. The human chorionic gonadotropin β subunit (βhCG) plays determinant roles in placentation and in cancer development and metastasis. A truncated form of the thyrotropin (TSH) β subunit is also reported to have biological effects. The GPH α- and β subunits are derived from precursor genes (gpa and gpb, respectively), which are expressed in most invertebrate species and are still represented in vertebrates as GPH subunit paralogs (gpa2 and gpb5, respectively). No specific receptor has been found for the vertebrate GPA2 and GPB5 even if their heterodimeric form is able to activate the TSH receptor in mammals. Interestingly, GPA and GPB are phylogenetically and structurally related to cysteine-knot growth factors (CKGF) and particularly to a group of antagonists that act independently on any receptor. This review article summarizes the observed actions of individual GPH subunits and presents the current hypotheses of how these actions might be induced. New approaches are also proposed in light of the evolutionary relatedness with antagonists of the CKGF family of proteins.
Collapse
|
41
|
Zohar Y. Fish reproductive biology - Reflecting on five decades of fundamental and translational research. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2021; 300:113544. [PMID: 32615136 PMCID: PMC7324349 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Driven by the broad diversity of species and physiologies and by reproduction-related bottlenecks in aquaculture, the field of fish reproductive biology has rapidly grown over the last five decades. This review provides my perspective on the field during this period, integrating fundamental and applied developments and milestones. Our basic understanding of the brain-pituitary-gonadal axis led to overcoming the failure of farmed fish to ovulate and spawn in captivity, allowing us to close the fish life cycle and establish a predictable, year-round production of eggs. Dissecting the molecular and hormonal mechanisms associated with sex determination and differentiation drove technologies for producing better performing mono-sex and reproductively-sterile fish. The growing contingent of passionate fish biologists, together with the availability of innovative platforms such as transgenesis and gene editing, as well as new models such as the zebrafish and medaka, have generated many discoveries, also leading to new insights of reproductive biology in higher vertebrates including humans. Consequently, fish have now been widely accepted as vertebrate reproductive models. Perhaps the best testament of the progress in our discipline is demonstrated at the International Symposia on Reproductive Physiology of Fish (ISRPF), at which our scientific family has convened every four years since the grandfather of the field, the late Ronald Billard, organized the inaugural 1977 meeting in Paimpont, France. As the one person who has been fortunate enough to attend all of these meetings since their inception, I have witnessed first-hand the astounding evolution of our field as we capitalized on the molecular and biotechnological revolutions in the life sciences, which enabled us to provide a higher resolution of fish reproductive and endocrine processes, answer more questions, and dive into deeper comprehension. Undoubtedly, the next (five) decades will be similarly exciting as we continue to integrate physiology with genomics, basic and translational research, and the small fish models with the aquacultured species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yonathan Zohar
- Department of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21202, United States
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Agwuegbo UT, Colley E, Albert AP, Butnev VY, Bousfield GR, Jonas KC. Differential FSH Glycosylation Modulates FSHR Oligomerization and Subsequent cAMP Signaling. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:765727. [PMID: 34925235 PMCID: PMC8678890 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.765727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and its target G protein-coupled receptor (FSHR) are essential for reproduction. Recent studies have established that the hypo-glycosylated pituitary FSH glycoform (FSH21/18), is more bioactive in vitro and in vivo than the fully-glycosylated variant (FSH24). FSH21/18 predominates in women of reproductive prime and FSH24 in peri-post-menopausal women, suggesting distinct functional roles of these FSH glycoforms. The aim of this study was to determine if differential FSH glycosylation modulated FSHR oligomerization and resulting impact on cAMP signaling. Using a modified super-resolution imaging technique (PD-PALM) to assess FSHR complexes in HEK293 cells expressing FSHR, we observed time and concentration-dependent modulation of FSHR oligomerization by FSH glycoforms. High eFSH and FSH21/18 concentrations rapidly dissociated FSHR oligomers into monomers, whereas FSH24 displayed slower kinetics. The FSHR β-arrestin biased agonist, truncated eLHβ (Δ121-149) combined with asparagine56-deglycosylated eLHα (dg-eLHt), increased FSHR homomerization. In contrast, low FSH21/18 and FSH24 concentrations promoted FSHR association into oligomers. Dissociation of FSHR oligomers correlated with time points where higher cAMP production was observed. Taken together, these data suggest that FSH glycosylation may modulate the kinetics and amplitude of cAMP production, in part, by forming distinct FSHR complexes, highlighting potential avenues for novel therapeutic targeting of the FSHR to improve IVF outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uchechukwu T. Agwuegbo
- School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Department of Women and Children’s Health, Guy’s Campus, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Colley
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony P. Albert
- Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular & Clinical Science Research Centre, St George’s University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Viktor Y. Butnev
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, United States
| | - George R. Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, United States
| | - Kim C. Jonas
- School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Department of Women and Children’s Health, Guy’s Campus, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Kim C. Jonas,
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Xie Y, Huang D, Chu L, Liu Y, Sun X, Li J, Cheng CHK. Igf3 is essential for ovary differentiation in zebrafish†. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:589-601. [PMID: 33276384 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish gonadal sexual differentiation is an important but poorly understood subject. Previously, we have identified a novel insulin-like growth factor (Igf) named insulin-like growth factor 3 (Igf3) in teleosts. The importance of Igf3 in oocyte maturation and ovulation has been recently demonstrated by us in zebrafish. In this study, we have further found the essential role of Igf3 in gonadal sexual differentiation of zebrafish. A differential expression pattern of igf3 between ovary and testis during sex differentiation (higher level in ovary than in testis) was found in zebrafish. An igf3 knockout zebrafish line was established using TALENs-mediated gene knockout technique. Intriguingly, all igf3 homozygous mutants were males due to the female-to-male sex reversal occurred during sex differentiation. Further analysis showed that Igf3 did not seem to affect the formation of so-called juvenile ovary and oocyte-like germ cells. Oocyte development was arrested at primary growth stage, and the ovary was gradually sex-reversed to testis before 60 day post fertilization (dpf). Such sex reversal was likely due to decreased germ cell proliferation by suppressing PI3K/Akt pathway in early ovaries of igf3 mutants. Estrogen is considered as a master regulator in fish sex differentiation. Here, we found that igf3 expression could be upregulated by estrogen in early stages of ovarian follicles as evidenced in in vitro treatment assays and cyp19a1a mutant zebrafish, and E2 failed to rescue the defects of igf3 mutants in ovarian development, suggesting that Igf3 may serve as a downstream factor of estrogen signaling in sex differentiation. Taken together, we demonstrated that Igf3 is essential for ovary differentiation in zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Xie
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Duo Huang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Lianhe Chu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Yun Liu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Xiao Sun
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Jianzhen Li
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Christopher H K Cheng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Li M, Liu X, Dai S, Xiao H, Qi S, Li Y, Zheng Q, Jie M, Cheng CHK, Wang D. Regulation of spermatogenesis and reproductive capacity by Igf3 in tilapia. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:4921-4938. [PMID: 31955242 PMCID: PMC11104970 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03439-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
A novel insulin-like growth factor (igf3), which is exclusively expressed in the gonads, has been widely identified in fish species. Recent studies have indicated that Igf3 regulates spermatogonia proliferation and differentiation in zebrafish; however, detailed information on the role of this Igf needs further in vivo investigation. Here, using Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) as an animal model, we report that igf3 is required for spermatogenesis and reproduction. Knockout of igf3 by CRISPR/Cas9 severely inhibited spermatogonial proliferation and differentiation at 90 days after hatching, the time critical for meiosis initiation, and resulted in less spermatocytes in the mutants. Although spermatogenesis continued to occur later, more spermatocytes and less spermatids were observed in the igf3-/- testes when compared with wild type of testes at adults, indicating that Igf3 regulates spermatocyte to spermatid transition. Importantly, a significantly increased occurrence of apoptosis in spermatids was observed after loss of Igf3. Therefore, igf3-/- males were subfertile with drastically reduced semen volume and sperm count. Conversely, the overexpression of Igf3 in XY tilapia enhanced spermatogenesis leading to more spermatids and sperm count. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that the absence of Igf3 resulted in dysregulation of many genes involved in cell cycle, meiosis and pluripotency regulators that are critical for spermatogenesis. In addition, in vitro gonadal culture with 17α-methyltetosterone (MT) and 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) administration and in vivo knockout of cyp11c1 demonstrated that igf3 expression is regulated by androgens, suggesting that Igf3 acts downstream of androgens in fish spermatogenesis. Notably, the igf3 knockout did not affect body growth, indicating that this Igf specifically functions in reproduction. Taken together, our data provide genetic evidence for fish igf3 in the regulation of reproductive capacity by controlling spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Li
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Xingyong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Shengfei Dai
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Hesheng Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Shuangshuang Qi
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yibing Li
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Qiaoyuan Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Mimi Jie
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Christopher H K Cheng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Deshou Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Lu H, Zhao C, Zhu B, Zhang Z, Ge W. Loss of Inhibin Advances Follicle Activation and Female Puberty Onset but Blocks Oocyte Maturation in Zebrafish. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5921142. [PMID: 33045050 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Inhibin was first characterized in mammals as a gonadal dimeric protein that inhibited pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion. As in mammals, the inhibin-specific α subunit (INHA/Inha/inha) has also been characterized in teleosts; however, its functions and physiological importance in fish reproduction remain unknown. Using CRISPR/Cas9 method, we generated an inha-deficient zebrafish line and analyzed its reproductive performance. As expected, pituitary expression of fshb increased significantly in both the young and the adult inha mutant. The expression of lhb also increased in the mutant, but only in sexually mature adults. Interestingly, the expression of activin βA (inhbaa) increased significantly in both the ovary and the testis of inha mutant, and the expression of ovarian aromatase (cyp19a1a) also increased dramatically in the mutant ovary. The juvenile female mutant showed clear signs of early follicle activation or precocious puberty onset. However, the adult female mutant was infertile with follicles arrested at the full-grown stage without final oocyte maturation and ovulation. Although follicle growth was normal overall in the mutant, the size and distribution of yolk granules in oocytes were distinct and some follicles showed granulosa cell hypertrophy. In contrast to females, inha-null males showed normal spermatogenesis and fertility. As reported in mammals, we also found sporadic tumor formation in inha mutants. Taken together, our study not only confirmed some conserved roles of inhibin across vertebrates, such as inhibition of FSH biosynthesis and tumor formation, but also revealed novel aspects of inhibin functions such as disruption of folliculogenesis and female infertility but no obvious involvement in spermatogenesis in fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huijie Lu
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Bo Zhu
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhang
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Wei Ge
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zhang Z, Wu K, Ren Z, Ge W. Genetic evidence for Amh modulation of gonadotropin actions to control gonadal homeostasis and gametogenesis in zebrafish and its noncanonical signaling through Bmpr2a receptor. Development 2020; 147:dev189811. [PMID: 33060133 DOI: 10.1242/dev.189811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (Amh) plays an important role in gonadal function. Amh deficiency causes severe gonadal dysgenesis and dysfunction in zebrafish, with gonadal hypertrophy in both sexes. However, its mechanism of action remains unknown. Intriguingly, the Amh cognate type II receptor (Amhr2) is missing in the zebrafish genome, in sharp contrast to other species. Using a series of zebrafish mutants (amh, fshb, fshr and lhcgr), we provided unequivocal evidence for actions of Amh, via modulation of gonadotropin signaling, on both germ cell proliferation and differentiation. The gonadal hypertrophy in amh mutants was abolished in the absence of Fshr in females or Fshr/Lhcgr in males. Furthermore, we demonstrated that knockout of bmpr2a, but not bmpr2b, phenocopied all phenotypes of the amh mutant in both sexes, including gonadal hypertrophy, hyperproliferation of germ cells, retarded gametogenesis and reduced fshb expression. In summary, the present study provided comprehensive genetic evidence for an intimate interaction of gonadotropin and Amh pathways in gonadal homeostasis and gametogenesis and for Bmpr2a as the possible missing link for Amh signaling in zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Zhang
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Kun Wu
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Zhiqin Ren
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Wei Ge
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Zhang Z, Zhu B, Chen W, Ge W. Anti-Müllerian hormone (Amh/amh) plays dual roles in maintaining gonadal homeostasis and gametogenesis in zebrafish. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 517:110963. [PMID: 32745576 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH/Amh) plays a role in gonadal differentiation and function across vertebrates. In zebrafish we demonstrated that Amh deficiency caused severe gonadal dysgenesis and dysfunction. The mutant gonads showed extreme hypertrophy with accumulation of early germ cells in both sexes, namely spermatogonia in the testis and primary growth oocytes in the ovary. In amh mutant females, the folliculogenesis was normal in young fish but receded progressively in adults, which was accompanied by progressive decrease in follicle-stimulating hormone (fshb) expression. Interestingly the expression of fshb increased in the pituitary of juvenile amh mutant males but decreased in adults. The upregulation of fshb in mutant male juveniles was likely one of the mechanisms for triggering gonadal hypergrowth, whereas the downregulation of fshb in adults might involve a negative feedback by gonadal inhibin. Further analysis using mutants of fshb and growth differentiation factor 9 (gdf9) provided evidence for a role of FSH in triggering ovarian hypertrophy in young female amh mutant as well. In summary, the present study provided comprehensive genetic evidence for dual roles of Amh in controlling zebrafish gonadal homeostasis and gametogenesis in both sexes. Amh suppresses proliferation or accumulation of early germ cells (spermatogonia in testis and primary growth oocytes in ovary) while promoting their exit to advanced stages, and its action may involve both endocrine and paracrine pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Zhang
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Bo Zhu
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Weiting Chen
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Wei Ge
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Papadaki M, Kaitetzidou E, Mylonas CC, Sarropoulou E. Non-coding RNA Expression Patterns of Two Different Teleost Gonad Maturation Stages. MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2020; 22:683-695. [PMID: 32876760 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-020-09991-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are involved in several different regulatory pathways including reproduction. In teleost fish, efficacious reproduction is heavily dependent on the completion of the reproductive cycle. The presence of ncRNA, however, and their expression dynamics and putative regulatory role in mature and immature gonads have not yet been extensively explored. Therefore, the abundance of ncRNAs in mature and immature female sharpsnout seabream (Diplodus puntazzo) was investigated. The sharpsnout seabream is a rudimentary hermaphrodite which, in captivity, displays dysfunctions in the gonad maturation process. Our analyses revealed a gonad specific read length distribution with two main peaks representing miRNAs (21-26 nt) and PIWI RNA (27-34 nt). Besides, distinct expression patterns for several ncRNA biotypes including microRNAs (miRNAs), PIWI RNAs (piRNAs), and ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs) were detected. Identified miRNA accounted to 938, corresponding to ~ 13% of obtained transcripts. Among the differential expressed ncRNAs, 10 (~ 7%) were annotated as miRNA, out of which 2 were found in higher abundance in immature gonads (miR-125c and miR-24) and 8 (miR-451, miR-7a, miR-122-1, miR190a, miR129, ENSGACT00000029608, ENSGACT00000029489, and ENSGACT00000029667) were found to be higher expressed in mature gonads. Putative miRNA targets, including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and genes, are proposed. Target genes are involved in several processes of fish oocyte development, such as steroidogenesis, proteolysis, and apoptosis, and may explain hormone regulation. This study demonstrates a gonad maturation biased ncRNA profile which in turn may support the role of ncRNAs in ovarian physiology and reproductive performance of fish, stressing the specific function of each RNA biotype in oocyte development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Papadaki
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, P.O. Box 2214, 71003, Iraklion, Crete, Greece
- Department of Biology, University of Crete, P.O. Box 2208, 71409, Iraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Elisavet Kaitetzidou
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, P.O. Box 2214, 71003, Iraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Constantinos C Mylonas
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, P.O. Box 2214, 71003, Iraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Elena Sarropoulou
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, P.O. Box 2214, 71003, Iraklion, Crete, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Converse A, Thomas P. The zinc transporter ZIP9 (Slc39a9) regulates zinc dynamics essential to egg activation in zebrafish. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15673. [PMID: 32973303 PMCID: PMC7518430 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72515-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The zinc transporter ZIP9 (SLC39A9) was recently characterized as a membrane androgen receptor in various teleost and mammalian cell models. ZIP9 shows the highest expression in ovaries of teleosts, a tissue in which both androgen signaling and zinc dynamics have significant roles. To examine the role of ZIP9 in ovarian physiology, we generated a ZIP9-mutant zebrafish strain using a CRISPR/Cas9 system. zip9-/- females showed significant reductions in fecundity, embryo viability, and growth of their offspring compared to wildtype (WT) fish. Furthermore, a high proportion of zip9-/- eggs failed to undergo normal chorion elevation during activation. In WT eggs, zinc was detected in cortically-localized vesicles which underwent exocytosis upon activation. zip9-/- eggs showed abnormal cortical vesicle development and had a significantly depressed activation-induced zinc release compared to WT eggs. Moreover, pharmacologically sustained elevation of zinc in WT eggs prior to activation resulted in abnormal chorion elevation similar to that observed in zip9-/- eggs. These results indicate that ZIP9 is essential for proper zinc modulation during zebrafish egg activation and presents the first evidence of zinc modulation during egg activation in a non-mammalian species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aubrey Converse
- Marine Science Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, 750 Channelview Dr., Port Aransas, TX, 78373, USA.
| | - Peter Thomas
- Marine Science Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, 750 Channelview Dr., Port Aransas, TX, 78373, USA
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Physiological impact and comparison of mutant screening methods in piwil2 KO founder Nile tilapia produced by CRISPR/Cas9 system. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12600. [PMID: 32724054 PMCID: PMC7387559 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69421-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The application of genome engineering techniques to understand the mechanisms that regulate germ cell development opens promising new avenues to develop methods to control sexual maturation and mitigate associated detrimental effects in fish. In this study, the functional role of piwil2 in primordial germ cells (PGCs) was investigated in Nile tilapia using CRISPR/Cas9 and the resultant genotypes were further explored. piwil2 is a gonad-specific and maternally deposited gene in Nile tilapia eggs which is known to play a role in repression of transposon elements and is therefore thought to be important for maintaining germline cell fate. A functional domain of piwil2, PIWI domain, was targeted by injecting Cas9 mRNA and sgRNAs into Nile tilapia embryos at 1 cell stage. Results showed 54% of injected mutant larvae had no or less putative PGCs compared to control fish, suggesting an essential role of piwil2 in survival of PGCs. The genotypic features of the different phenotypic groups were explored by next generation sequencing (NGS) and other mutant screening methods including T7 endonuclease 1 (T7E1), CRISPR/Cas-derived RNA-guided engineered nuclease (RGEN), high resolution melt curve analysis (HRMA) and fragment analysis. Linking phenotypes to genotypes in F0 was hindered by the complex mosacism and wide indel spectrum revealed by NGS and fragment analysis. This study strongly suggests the functional importance of piwil2 in PGCs survival. Further studies should focus on reducing mosaicism when using CRISPR/Cas9 system to facilitate direct functional analysis in F0.
Collapse
|