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Shinde D, Bhat SK, Ganesh CB. The opioid peptide leucine enkephalin modulates hypothalamic-hypophysial axis in the cichlid fish Oreochromis mossambicus. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 263:107451. [PMID: 38490066 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107451] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
In vertebrates, opioid peptides are thought to be involved in the regulation of reproduction; however, the significance of enkephalins in testicular function remains unclear. We examined the influence of δ-opioid receptor agonist leucine enkephalin (L-ENK) on the hypophysial-testicular axis of the cichlid fish Oreochromis mossambicus. Treatment with a low dose of L-ENK (60 µg) caused a significant increase in the numbers of primary and secondary spermatocytes and early and late spermatids, concomitant with intense immunolabelling of testicular androgen receptors, but did not significantly alter serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) levels compared to those of controls. Nevertheless, treatment with a high dose of L-ENK (200 µg) caused a significant reduction in the numbers of secondary spermatocytes as well as late spermatids associated with marginal immunolabelling of androgen receptors and significantly lower concentrations of serum 11-KT and LH compared to controls. In addition, the serum cortisol level was not affected in low-dose L-ENK-treated fish, but its level was significantly increased in the high-dose L-ENK-treated group. Together, these findings indicate that a low dose of L-ENK stimulates the germ cells at the meiosis stage and promotes further stages of spermatogenesis, whereas a high concentration of L-ENK inhibits spermatogenesis at the advanced stages. This effect appears to be mediated through the suppression of testicular steroidogenesis and the reduction of LH release in the pituitary gland of tilapia. The findings also suggest that elevated L-ENK levels in teleosts may exert their inhibitory influence on the hypophysial-testicular axis via glucocorticoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Shinde
- Neuroendocrinology Research Laboratory, Department of Studies in Zoology, Karnatak University, Dharwad 580 003, India
| | - Shilpa K Bhat
- Neuroendocrinology Research Laboratory, Department of Studies in Zoology, Karnatak University, Dharwad 580 003, India
| | - C B Ganesh
- Neuroendocrinology Research Laboratory, Department of Studies in Zoology, Karnatak University, Dharwad 580 003, India.
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2
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Accustomed to the heat: Temperature and thyroid hormone influences on oogenesis and gonadal steroidogenesis pathways vary among populations of Amargosa pupfish (Cyprinodon nevadensis amargosae). Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2022; 272:111280. [PMID: 35902003 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.111280] [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: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Many fish experience diminished reproductive performance under atypically high or prolonged elevations of temperature. Such high temperature inhibition of reproduction comes about in part from altered stimulation of gametogenesis by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) endocrine axis. Elevated temperatures have also been shown to affect thyroid hormone (TH) signaling, and altered TH status under high temperatures may impact gametogenesis via crosstalk with HPG axis pathways. Here, we examined effects of temperature and 3'-triiodo-L-thyronine (T3) on pathways for gonadal steroidogenesis and gametogenesis in Amargosa pupfish (Cyprinodon nevadensis amargosae) from two allopatric populations: 1) the Amargosa River - a highly variable temperature habitat, and 2) Tecopa Bore - an invariably warm groundwater-fed marsh. These populations were previously shown to differ in TH signaling profiles both in the wild and under common laboratory conditions. Sexually-mature pupfish from each population were maintained at 24 °C or 34 °C for 88 days, after which a subset of fish was treated with T3 for 18-24 h. In both populations, mRNA abundances for follicle-stimulating hormone receptor and luteinizing hormone receptor were higher in the ovary and testis at 24 °C compared to 34 °C. Females from Tecopa Bore - but not from the Amargosa River - also had greater ovarian transcript abundances for steroidogenic enzymes cytochrome P450 aromatase, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase at 24 °C compared to 34 °C, as well as higher liver mRNA levels of vitellogenins and choriogenins at cooler temperature. Transcript abundances for estrogen receptors esr1, esr2a, and esr2b were reduced at 34 °C in Amargosa River females, but not in Tecopa Bore females. T3 augmented gonadal gene transcript levels for steroid acute regulatory protein (StAR) transporter in both sexes and populations. T3 also downregulated liver estrogen receptor mRNAs in females from the warmer Tecopa Bore habitat only, suggesting T3 modulation of liver E2 sensitivity as a possible mechanism whereby temperature-induced changes in TH status may contribute to shifts in thermal sensitivity for oogenesis.
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Rodrigues MS, Tovo-Neto A, Rosa IF, Doretto LB, Fallah HP, Habibi HR, Nóbrega RH. Thyroid Hormones Deficiency Impairs Male Germ Cell Development: A Cross Talk Between Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid, and—Gonadal Axes in Zebrafish. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:865948. [PMID: 35646887 PMCID: PMC9133415 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.865948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In vertebrates, thyroid hormones are critical players in controlling different physiological processes such as development, growth, metabolism among others. There is evidence in mammals that thyroid hormones are also an important component of the hormonal system that controls reproduction, although studies in fish remain poorly investigated. Here, we tested this hypothesis by investigating the effects of methimazole-induced hypothyroidism on the testicular function in adult zebrafish. Treatment of fish with methimazole, in vivo, significantly altered zebrafish spermatogenesis by inhibiting cell differentiation and meiosis, as well as decreasing the relative number of spermatozoa. The observed impairment of spermatogenesis by methimazole was correlated with significant changes in transcript levels for several genes implicated in the control of reproduction. Using an in vitro approach, we also demonstrated that in addition to affecting the components of the brain-pituitary-peripheral axis, T3 (triiodothyronine) also exerts direct action on the testis. These results reinforce the hypothesis that thyroid hormones are an essential element of multifactorial control of reproduction and testicular function in zebrafish and possibly other vertebrate species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maira S. Rodrigues
- Aquaculture Program (CAUNESP), São Paulo State University (UNESP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Aldo Tovo-Neto
- Aquaculture Program (CAUNESP), São Paulo State University (UNESP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Ivana F. Rosa
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Lucas B. Doretto
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Hamideh P. Fallah
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Hamid R. Habibi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Rafael H. Nóbrega
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Rafael H. Nóbrega,
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4
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Rodrigues MS, Fallah HP, Zanardini M, Malafaia G, Habibi HR, Nóbrega RH. Interaction between thyroid hormones and gonadotropin inhibitory hormone in ex vivo culture of zebrafish testis: An approach to study multifactorial control of spermatogenesis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 532:111331. [PMID: 34038752 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction is under multifactorial control of neurohormones, pituitary gonadotropins, as well as of local gonadal signaling systems including sex steroids, growth factors and non-coding RNAs. Among the factors, gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (Gnih) is a novel RFamide neuropeptide which directly modulates gonadotropin synthesis and release from pituitary, and in the gonads, Gnih mediated inhibitory actions on gonadotropin response of zebrafish spermatogenesis. Thyroid hormones are peripheral hormones which are also known to interact with reproductive axis, in particular, regulating testicular development and function. This study investigated the interaction between Gnih and thyroid hormones in zebrafish spermatogenesis using in vivo and ex vivo approaches. Three experimental groups were established: "control" (non-treated fish), "methimazole" and "methimazole + T4". Fish were exposed to goitrogen methimazole for 3 weeks; T4 (100 μg/L) was added in the water from the second week only in the "reversal treatment" group. After exposure, testes were dissected out and immediately incubated in Leibovitz's L-15 culture medium containing hCG, Gnih or hCG + Gnih for 7 days. Germ cell cysts and haploid cell population were evaluated by histomorphometry and flow cytometry, respectively. Our results showed that hypothyroidism affected germ cell development in basal and gonadotropin-induced spermatogenesis, in particular, meiosis and spermiogenesis. Hypothyroid testes showed lower amount of spermatozoa, and decreased potency of hCG. We also showed that goitrogen treatment nullified the inhibitory actions of Gnih on the gonadotropin-induced spermatogenesis. This study provided evidences that thyroid hormones are important regulatory factors for hCG- and Gnih-mediated functions in zebrafish spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maira S Rodrigues
- Aquaculture Program (CAUNESP), São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14884-900, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada; Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 18618-970, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Hamideh P Fallah
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Maya Zanardini
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 18618-970, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil; Biological Research Laboratory, Goiano Federal Institution, Urata Campus, Rodovia Geraldo Silva Nascimento, 2,5 km, Zona Rural, Urutaí, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Hamid R Habibi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada.
| | - Rafael H Nóbrega
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 18618-970, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Roco ÁS, Ruiz-García A, Bullejos M. Testis Development and Differentiation in Amphibians. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:578. [PMID: 33923451 PMCID: PMC8072878 DOI: 10.3390/genes12040578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex is determined genetically in amphibians; however, little is known about the sex chromosomes, testis-determining genes, and the genes involved in testis differentiation in this class. Certain inherent characteristics of the species of this group, like the homomorphic sex chromosomes, the high diversity of the sex-determining mechanisms, or the existence of polyploids, may hinder the design of experiments when studying how the gonads can differentiate. Even so, other features, like their external development or the possibility of inducing sex reversal by external treatments, can be helpful. This review summarizes the current knowledge on amphibian sex determination, gonadal development, and testis differentiation. The analysis of this information, compared with the information available for other vertebrate groups, allows us to identify the evolutionarily conserved and divergent pathways involved in testis differentiation. Overall, the data confirm the previous observations in other vertebrates-the morphology of the adult testis is similar across different groups; however, the male-determining signal and the genetic networks involved in testis differentiation are not evolutionarily conserved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mónica Bullejos
- Departamento de Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Campus Las Lagunillas S/N, Universidad de Jaén, 23071 Jaén, Spain; (Á.S.R.); (A.R.-G.)
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6
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Wang Q, Lin F, He Q, Huang Q, Duan X, Liu X, Xiao S, Yang H, Zhao H. Cloning and characterization of rec8 gene in orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) and Dmrt1 regulation of rec8 promoter activity. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2021; 47:393-407. [PMID: 33547601 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-020-00920-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Meiosis is a specialized type of cell division critical for gamete production during sexual reproduction in eukaryotes. The meiotic recombination protein Rec8 has been identified as an important factor in germ cell meiotic initiation in vertebrates; however, its equivalent role in teleosts is poorly characterized. In this study, we cloned and sequenced the rec8 gene from orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides). The cDNA sequence consisted of 2244 base pairs (bp), including a 5' untranslated region (UTR) of 198 bp and a 3'UTR of 284 bp. The open reading frame of grouper rec8 was 1752 bp, encoding 584 amino acids. Expression levels of rec8 were higher in the ovary, intersex gonad, and testis. A neighbor-joining phylogenetic tree based on the deduced amino acid sequence indicated a common origin for grouper and other teleost rec8 molecules. Immunohistochemistry using a polyclonal anti-Rec8 antibody localized the protein in the oogonia and primary oocytes in the ovary and in spermatogonia and spermatocytes in the intersex gonad and testis, suggesting that Rec8 may play an important role in the meiotic division and the development of grouper germ cells. In addition, we found that the transcription factor Dmrt1 increased rec8 promoter activity through the second binding site, based on dual-luciferase assays. Together, these results suggest that Rec8 plays a crucial role in meiosis and may be regulated by Dmrt1 to affect meiosis in groupers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Wang
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangmei Lin
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi He
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Qifeng Huang
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuzhuo Duan
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaochun Liu
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiqiang Xiao
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Huirong Yang
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China.
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China.
| | - HuiHong Zhao
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China.
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China.
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China.
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7
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Lara NLM, Silva VA, Chiarini-Garcia H, Garcia SK, Debeljuk L, Hess RA, França LR. Hypothyroidism induced by postnatal PTU (6-n-propyl-2-thiouracil) treatment decreases Sertoli cell number and spermatogenic efficiency in sexually mature pigs. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 299:113593. [PMID: 32828810 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Studies with 6-n-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) in laboratory rodents have shown that transient neonatal hypothyroidism leads to increased Sertoli cell (SC) number, testis size and sperm production. However, scarce and inconclusive data are available for farm animals. In the present study, Piau pigs received PTU in a gel capsule containing 8 mg/kg of body weight for 14 weeks starting from the first week of age, whereas control animals received only the vehicle. Blood samples were collected during the experimental period for hormonal evaluation in the serum. The animals were orchiectomized at adulthood and had their testes used for histomorphometric analysis. Indicating that the PTU concentration used was effective in promoting hypothyroidism, PTU-treated pigs showed a 30% lower body weight and reduced thyroxine levels (p < 0.05) during the treatment period. At adulthood, the body weight was similar in both groups but, surprisingly, PTU-treated pigs showed 30% lower testis weight (p < 0.05). In general, treated pigs presented increased follicle-stimulating hormone levels, whereas testosterone levels tended to be lower from 9 to 23 weeks of age. No significant differences were observed for estradiol, Leydig cell volume and number, tubular diameter, SC number per gram of testis, SC efficiency and meiotic index. However, seminiferous tubule occupancy, total tubular length, SC number per testis, and daily sperm production per testis and per gram of testis (DSP/g/T) were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in PTU-treated pigs. Therefore, in contrast to laboratory rodents, our results showed that SC proliferation and DSP/g/T (spermatogenic efficiency) in Piau pigs is diminished by postnatal PTU treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia L M Lara
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Valdemiro A Silva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Hélio Chiarini-Garcia
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Simone K Garcia
- Department of Zootechny, School of Veterinary at Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Rex A Hess
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Luiz R França
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Rescue of germ cells in dnd crispant embryos opens the possibility to produce inherited sterility in Atlantic salmon. Sci Rep 2020; 10:18042. [PMID: 33093479 PMCID: PMC7581530 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74876-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic introgression of escaped farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) into wild populations is a major environmental concern for the salmon aquaculture industry. Using sterile fish in commercial aquaculture operations is, therefore, a sustainable strategy for bio-containment. So far, the only commercially used methodology for producing sterile fish is triploidization. However, triploid fish are less robust. A novel approach in which to achieve sterility is to produce germ cell-free salmon, which can be accomplished by knocking out the dead-end (dnd) gene using CRISPR-Cas9. The lack of germ cells in the resulting dnd crispants, thus, prevents reproduction and inhibits subsequent large-scale production of sterile fish. Here, we report a rescue approach for producing germ cells in Atlantic salmon dnd crispants. To achieve this, we co-injected the wild-type (wt) variant of salmon dnd mRNA together with CRISPR-Cas9 constructs targeting dnd into 1-cell stage embryos. We found that rescued one-year-old fish contained germ cells, type A spermatogonia in males and previtellogenic primary oocytes in females. The method presented here opens a possibility for large-scale production of germ-cell free Atlantic salmon offspring through the genetically sterile broodstock which can pass the sterility trait on the next generation.
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9
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Li X, Zhang F, Wu N, Ye D, Wang Y, Zhang X, Sun Y, Zhang YA. A critical role of foxp3a-positive regulatory T cells in maintaining immune homeostasis in zebrafish testis development. J Genet Genomics 2020; 47:547-561. [PMID: 33309050 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2020.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Suppressive regulatory T cells (Treg cells) play a vital role in preventing autoimmunity and restraining excessive immune response to both self- and non-self-antigens. Studies on humans and mice show that the Forkhead box p3 (Foxp3) is a key regulatory gene for the development and function of Treg cells. In zebrafish, Treg cells have been identified by using foxp3a as a reliable marker. However, little is known about the function of foxp3a and Treg cells in gonadal development and sex differentiation. Here, we show that foxp3a is essential for maintaining immune homeostasis in zebrafish testis development. We found that foxp3a was specifically expressed in a subset of T cells in zebrafish testis, while knockout of foxp3a led to deficiency of foxp3a-positive Treg cells in the testis. More than 80% of foxp3a-/- mutants developed as subfertile males, and the rest of the mutants developed as fertile females with decreased ovulation. Further study revealed that foxp3a-/- mutants had a delayed juvenile ovary-to-testis transition in definite males and sex reversal in about half of the definite females, which led to a dominance of later male development. Owing to the absence of foxp3a-positive Treg cells in the differentiating testis of foxp3a-/- mutants, abundant T cells and macrophages expand to disrupt an immunosuppressive milieu, resulting in defective development of germ cells and gonadal somatic cells and leading to development of infertile males. Therefore, our study reveals that foxp3a-positive Treg cells play an essential role in the orchestration of gonadal development and sex differentiation in zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianmei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Fenghua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Nan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Ding Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Yaqing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiaofan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yonghua Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Yong-An Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266071, China; State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
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10
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Mouro VGS, de Melo FCSA, Martins ALP, de Lucca Moreira Gomes M, de Oliveira JM, de Freitas MBD, Demuner AJ, Leite JPV, da Matta SLP. Euterpe oleracea (Martius) Oil Reverses Testicular Alterations Caused after Cadmium Administration. Biol Trace Elem Res 2020; 197:555-570. [PMID: 31898307 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-019-02004-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is an environmental pollutant that induces reproductive toxicity by generating reactive oxygen species, which leads to oxidative stress. Euterpe oleracea fruits are known for being rich in oils containing triacylglycerol and phenolic compounds. They are considered as potent antioxidants to be used to counteract Cd effects within the testis. In the present study, adult males Swiss mice were treated with CdCl2 aqueous solution (4.28 mg/kg) by gavage for 7 days. The experimental groups were treated with Euterpe oleracea oil at the doses of 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg, for 42 days. The results showed that Cd intoxication led to increased tubular pathologies, such as reduction in epithelium height and area thus increasing both luminal diameter and tubule-epithelium ratio. Besides, Leydig cell's morphometry indicated reduction in nucleus and cytoplasm volumes of this cell type, which were recovered after E. oleracea oil intake. In addition, serum testosterone levels, testicular Mn and Zn concentrations, SOD and CAT activity, and germ cell viability increased after oil intake. Therefore, E. oleracea oil showed a regenerative effect in the testicular parenchyma negatively affected by Cd, mainly in the animals that received the highest oil concentration (150 mg/kg).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sérgio Luis Pinto da Matta
- Departament of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Departament of Animal Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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11
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Parsons AE, Lange A, Hutchinson TH, Miyagawa S, Iguchi T, Kudoh T, Tyler CR. Expression dynamics of genes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) cascade and their responses to 3,3',5-triiodo-l-thyronine (T3) highlights potential vulnerability to thyroid-disrupting chemicals in zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryo-larvae. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2020; 225:105547. [PMID: 32623180 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2020.105547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Some chemicals in the environment disrupt thyroid hormone (TH) systems leading to alterations in organism development, but their effect mechanisms are poorly understood. In fish, this has been limited by a lack of fundamental knowledge on thyroid gene ontogeny and tissue expression in early life stages. Here we established detailed expression profiles for a suite of genes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis of zebrafish (Danio rerio) between 24-120 h post fertilisation (hpf) and quantified their responses following exposure to 3,3',5-triiodo-L-thyronine (T3) using whole mount in situ hybridisation (WISH) and qRT-PCR (using whole-body extracts). All of the selected genes in the HPT axis demonstrated dynamic transcript expression profiles across the developmental stages examined. The expression of thyroid receptor alpha (thraa) was observed in the brain, gastrointestinal tract, craniofacial tissues and pectoral fins, while thyroid receptor beta (thrb) expression occurred in the brain, otic vesicles, liver and lower jaw. The TH deiodinases (dio1, dio2 and dio3b) were expressed in the liver, pronephric ducts and brain and the patterns differed depending on life stage. Both dio1 and dio2 were also expressed in the intestinal bulb (96-120 hpf), and dio2 expression occurred also in the pituitary (48-120 hpf). Exposure of zebrafish embryo-larvae to T3 (30 and 100 μg L-1) for periods of 48, 96 or 120 hpf resulted in the up-regulation of thraa, thrb, dio3b, thyroid follicle synthesis proteins (pax8) and corticotropin-releasing hormone (crhb) and down-regulation of dio1, dio2, glucuronidation enzymes (ugt1ab) and thyroid stimulating hormone (tshb) (assessed via qRT-PCR) and responses differed across life stage and tissues. T3 induced thraa expression in the pineal gland, pectoral fins, brain, somites, gastrointestinal tract, craniofacial tissues, liver and pronephric ducts. T3 enhanced thrb expression in the brain, jaw cartilage and intestine, while thrb expression was suppressed in the liver. T3 exposure suppressed the transcript levels of dio1 and dio2 in the liver, brain, gastrointestinal tract and craniofacial tissues, while dio2 signalling was also suppressed in the pituitary gland. Dio3b expression was induced by T3 exposure in the jaw cartilage, pectoral fins and brain. The involvement of THs in the development of numerous body tissues and the responsiveness of these tissues to T3 in zebrafish highlights their potential vulnerability to exposure to environmental thyroid-disrupting chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoife E Parsons
- University of Exeter, Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Rd., Exeter, EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
| | - Anke Lange
- University of Exeter, Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Rd., Exeter, EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas H Hutchinson
- University of Plymouth, School of Geography, Earth & Environmental Sciences, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
| | - Shinichi Miyagawa
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, 125-8585, Japan
| | - Taisen Iguchi
- Graduate School of Nanobioscience, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0027, Japan
| | - Tetsuhiro Kudoh
- University of Exeter, Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Rd., Exeter, EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
| | - Charles R Tyler
- University of Exeter, Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Rd., Exeter, EX4 4QD, United Kingdom.
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12
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Kang H, Kenealy TM, Cohen RE. The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and thyroid hormone regulation interact to influence seasonal breeding in green anole lizards (Anolis carolinensis). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 292:113446. [PMID: 32126224 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive physiology and behavior is mainly regulated by the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad (HPG) axis, although abnormal thyroid hormone (TH) levels alter HPG axis activity. Seasonally breeding animals, such as green anole lizards (Anolis carolinensis), undergo drastic hormonal and behavioral changes between breeding and non-breeding seasons, with increased sex steroid hormones, larger gonads and increased reproductive behaviors during the breeding compared to non-breeding seasons. Relatively less is known regarding the regulation of gonadal TH in seasonal reproduction. We examined whether the gonadal expression of enzymes involved in TH activation are altered in concert with seasonal reproduction. Type 2 deiodinase (Dio2) mRNA, the TH activating enzyme, was upregulated in breeding compared to non-breeding testes, while type 3 deiodinase (Dio3) mRNA, the TH deactivating enzyme, was upregulated in breeding ovaries. To study the association between the HPG axis and local activation of TH, we manipulated the HPG axis during the non-breeding season by subcutaneously injecting luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in male lizards. We found that acute LH and FSH injections induced many aspects of breeding, with increased testes size and testosterone levels. Surprisingly, Dio3 was upregulated in the testes after LH and FSH injections, while Dio2 mRNA levels were unchanged. These results suggest that there might be different roles for local TH activation in developing and maintaining fully mature and functional gonads. Our findings continue to support the role for TH in regulating reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyejoo Kang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University, Mankato, Mankato, MN 56001-6062, USA
| | - Taylor M Kenealy
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University, Mankato, Mankato, MN 56001-6062, USA
| | - Rachel E Cohen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University, Mankato, Mankato, MN 56001-6062, USA.
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13
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Lara NDLEM, Costa GMJ, Figueiredo AFA, de França LR. The Sertoli cell: what can we learn from different vertebrate models? Anim Reprod 2020; 16:81-92. [PMID: 33299481 PMCID: PMC7720927 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Besides having medical applications, comparative studies on reproductive biology are very useful, providing, for instance, essential knowledge for basic, conservation and biotechnological research. In order to maintain the reproductive potential and the survival of all vertebrate species, both sperm and steroid production need to occur inside the testis. From the approximately fifty thousand vertebrate species still alive, very few species are already investigated; however, our knowledge regarding Sertoli cell biology is quite good. In this regard, it is already known that since testis differentiation the Sertoli cells are the somatic cells in charge of supporting and orchestrating germ cells during development and full spermatogenesis in adult animals. In the present review, we highlight key aspects related to Sertoli cell biology in vertebrates and show that this key testis somatic cell presents huge and intrinsic plasticity, particularly when cystic (fish and amphibians) and non-cystic (reptiles, birds and mammals) spermatogenesis is compared. In particular, we briefly discuss the main aspects related to Sertoli cells functions, interactions with germ cells, Sertoli cells proliferation and efficiency, as well as those regarding spermatogonial stem cell niche regulation, which are crucial aspects responsible for the magnitude of sperm production. Most importantly, we show that we could greatly benefit from investigations using different vertebrate experimental models, mainly now that there is a big concern regarding the decline in human sperm counts caused by a multitude of factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guilherme Mattos Jardim Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz Renato de França
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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14
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Gonçalves LAB, Silva GMF, Viana IKS, Hainfellner P, Ferreira MAP, Batlouni SR, Rocha RM. Testicular structure and development of germ cells of Hypophthalmus marginatus Valenciennes 1840 (Siluriformes: Pimelodidae). Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 211:106223. [PMID: 31785642 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.106223] [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: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The present study was conducted to assess the testicular structure and germ cell ultrastructure of Hypophthalmus marginatus during spermatogenesis. Semen and sections of the mid-region of the testis were collected, processed, and analyzed using optical and electron microscopy. Macroscopically, the testes of H. marginatus were filiform, and the testicular parenchyma was composed of spermatogenic cells that proliferated, organized within spermatic cysts. During spermiogenesis, spermatids had no nuclear rotation. The proximal centriole was perpendicular to the distal centriole, characteristic of type III spermiogenesis. Spermatozoa were released into the lumen of the seminiferous tubules and had an ovoid head without an acrosome, condensed nucleus, and shallow nuclear fossa. The midpiece was short, with a single long flagellum. The flagellum had the typical axoneme structure, with nine pairs of peripheral and a central pair of microtubules. The thin end piece comprised only peripheral microtubules. Spermatogenesis in H. marginatus features filiform testes, cystic spermatogenesis, and type III spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liziane Amaral B Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Cellular Ultrastructure - Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Pará, Rua Augusto Correa nº 01, Guamá, 66075-110, Belém, Pará, Brazil.
| | - Gicelle M F Silva
- Laboratory of Cellular Ultrastructure - Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Pará, Rua Augusto Correa nº 01, Guamá, 66075-110, Belém, Pará, Brazil; Laboratory of Immunohistochemistry and Developmental Biology, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Pará, Rua Augusto Corrêa, 01 - Guamá, 66075-110, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Ivana Kerly S Viana
- Laboratory of Cellular Ultrastructure - Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Pará, Rua Augusto Correa nº 01, Guamá, 66075-110, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Patrick Hainfellner
- Paulista State University "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Center of Aquaculture (CAUNESP), Path of Access Prof. Paulo Donato Castelane, s/n, 14884-900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Auxiliadora P Ferreira
- Laboratory of Immunohistochemistry and Developmental Biology, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Pará, Rua Augusto Corrêa, 01 - Guamá, 66075-110, Belém, Pará, Brazil.
| | - Sergio R Batlouni
- Paulista State University "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Center of Aquaculture (CAUNESP), Path of Access Prof. Paulo Donato Castelane, s/n, 14884-900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil.
| | - Rossineide M Rocha
- Laboratory of Cellular Ultrastructure - Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Pará, Rua Augusto Correa nº 01, Guamá, 66075-110, Belém, Pará, Brazil.
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15
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Subacute Testicular Toxicity to Cadmium Exposure Intraperitoneally and Orally. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:3429635. [PMID: 31885783 PMCID: PMC6899267 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3429635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The toxic effects of cadmium (Cd) on reproductive parameters are widely described in the literature. Experimental models often make use of the intraperitoneal route (i.p.), although human intoxication occurs preferentially by the oral route and can be continuous. However, little is known about the effect of Cd administration routes on the testicular structure. Thus, this study investigated the testicular impact of Cd exposure comparing both i.p. and oral routes, both single dose (SD), in addition to the oral route in fractional doses (FD). Swiss adult male mice received CdCl2 1.5 mg/kg i.p., 30 mg/kg oral SD, and 4.28 mg/kg oral FD for 7 consecutive days. The Cd bioaccumulation was observed in all routes, mainly in the oral FD route. The concentrations of testicular Ca and Cu decreased in all animals exposed to Cd, while Zn and Mn decreased only in the i.p. route. Testicular SOD activity was reduced in both routes of oral administration, while CAT increased in the i.p. route, and GST increased in all animals exposed to Cd. Changes in the tubular parameters and cell viability were observed in both routes of Cd administration but were more intense in the oral route, mainly in the FD. Serum testosterone concentration was reduced in both routes of oral administration. Tubular damage, such as the vacuolization of the seminiferous epithelium, germ cell detachment, and seminiferous tubule degeneration, occurred in all groups exposed to Cd. Therefore, the oral Cd administration presented greater potential to promote testicular damage, mainly when the metal was given in a fractionated way.
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16
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Jin YH, Davie A, Migaud H. Temperature-induced testicular germ cell loss and recovery in Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 283:113227. [PMID: 31348956 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2019.113227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Water temperature is a critical external factor influencing gonadal development in fish. This research aimed to study the impact of elevated temperature on testicular germ cell survival and reproductive capacity of Nile tilapia. Male Nile tilapia were exposed to high temperatures of either 36 (HT1) or 37 °C (HT2) for 3000 degree-days (DD) and thereafter returned to the control temperature of 27 °C (CT) for 2200 DD. The deleterious effects on testicular germ and somatic cells were observed histologically, characterised by vacuolisation, atrophy and the loss of spermatogenic cells in testes with a more severe impact of HT2 compared to HT1. Interestingly, serum 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) and testosterone (T) levels tended to be higher during the heat treatments than CT. Expression levels of germline-specific genes piwil1, piwil2 and nanos2 and Bcl-2 family genes, bcl-xLb and baxa were significantly reduced during the heat treatment compared to CT, more so in the HT2, while the levels of nanos3 and gfra1 transcripts were only significantly reduced in HT2, implying a significant loss of spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) and spermatogonia in HT2. The effect of HT2 is further evidenced by the significantly reduced sperm density and fertilisation rate compared to CT and HT1 at the end of the recovery period but complete sterility was not induced by HT2. Overall, the present study showed significant effects of HT2 on germ cell survival with histological changes in testes, reduced milt quality, increased 11-KT, and decreased expression of germline-specific genes, SSC marker genes and Bcl-2 family genes in testes which could therefore be potential target genes for sterilisation by genome editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Hwa Jin
- Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK; The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Andrew Davie
- Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Herve Migaud
- Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK.
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17
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Hatef A, Unniappan S. Metabolic hormones and the regulation of spermatogenesis in fishes. Theriogenology 2019; 134:121-128. [PMID: 31167155 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic hormones play essential regulatory roles in many biological processes, including morphogenesis, growth, and reproduction through the maintenance of energy balance. Various metabolic hormones originally discovered in mammals, including ghrelin, leptin, and nesfatin-1 have been identified and characterized in fish. However, physiological roles of these metabolic hormones in regulating reproduction are largely unknown in fishes, especially in males. While the information available is restricted, this review attempts to summarize the main findings on the roles of metabolic peptides on the reproductive system in male fishes with an emphasis on testicular development and spermatogenesis. Specifically, the primary goal is to review the physiological interactions between hormones that regulate reproduction and hormones that regulate metabolism as a critical determinant of testicular function. A brief introduction to the localization of metabolic hormones in fish testis is also provided. Besides, the consequences of fasting and food deprivation on testicular development and sperm quality will be discussed with a focus on interactions between metabolic and reproductive hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Hatef
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroendocrinology, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Suraj Unniappan
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroendocrinology, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5B4, Canada.
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18
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The role of active immunization against inhibin α-subunit on testicular development, testosterone concentration and relevant genes expressions in testis, hypothalamus and pituitary glands in Yangzhou goose ganders. Theriogenology 2019; 128:122-132. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.01.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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19
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Cruz Vieira AB, Weber AA, Ribeiro YM, Luz RK, Bazzoli N, Rizzo E. Influence of salinity on spermatogenesis in adult Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) testis. Theriogenology 2019; 131:1-8. [PMID: 30921633 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Continental waters salinisation is a global threat that has grown because of climate change and human activities, but little is known about how and what biological tracts are affected. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of different water salinities on the expression of HSP70, PCNA and caspase-3 during spermatogenesis of Nile tilapia. Adult males were submitted to four salinity treatments: (S0) fresh water, (S7) 7 g L-1, (S14) 14 g L-1, and (S21) 21 g L-1 for 1, 4, and 9 days. All specimens were in spermatogenic activity and the highest values of the gonadosomatic index (GSI) occurred in the S0 and S7. In the morphometric analysis, spermatocytes were the most frequent germ cell detected in all treatments (>50%) and spermatids achieved about 20% of the testicular proportion, with few variations among treatments. Spermatozoa were significantly reduced only in S14 compared to S7. Leydig cells were significantly increased in S14 when compared to S7 but plasma concentrations of 11-KT showed no significant difference among treatments. ELISA assay showed higher testicular expression of HSP70 at 1 day in all groups, followed by a significant decrease at days 4 and 9 in S14 and S21. The expression of PCNA was significantly lower while the activity of caspase-3 was higher in S14 and S21 when compared to S0 and S7. These results indicate that higher salinities in S14 and S21 interfere with the relationship between testicular HSP70, PCNA, and caspase-3, but with few effects over spermatogenesis dynamics of Nile tilapia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusto Bicalho Cruz Vieira
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Caixa Postal 486, 30161-970, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - André Alberto Weber
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Caixa Postal 486, 30161-970, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Yves Moreira Ribeiro
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Caixa Postal 486, 30161-970, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ronald Kennedy Luz
- Laboratório de Aquacultura, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Caixa Postal 567, 30123-970, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Nilo Bazzoli
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Zoologia dos Vertebrados, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Minas Gerais, PUC Minas, Belo Horizonte, Caixa Postal 500, 30535-610, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Elizete Rizzo
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Caixa Postal 486, 30161-970, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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20
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Houbrechts AM, Van Houcke J, Darras VM. Disruption of deiodinase type 2 in zebrafish disturbs male and female reproduction. J Endocrinol 2019; 241:JOE-18-0549.R3. [PMID: 30817317 DOI: 10.1530/joe-18-0549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones are crucial mediators of many aspects of vertebrate life, including reproduction. The key player is the biologically active 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3), whose local bio-availability is strictly regulated by deiodinase enzymes. Deiodinase type 2 (Dio2) is present in many tissues and is the main enzyme for local T3 production. To unravel its role in different physiological processes, we generated a mutant zebrafish line, completely lacking Dio2 activity. Here we focus on the reproductive phenotype studied at the level of offspring production, gametogenesis, functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and sex steroid production. Homozygous Dio2-deficient zebrafish were hypothyroid, displayed a delay in sexual maturity, and the duration of their reproductive period was substantially shortened. Fecundity and fertilization were also severely reduced. Gamete counts pointed to a delay in oogenesis at onset of sexual maturity and later on to an accumulation of oocytes in mutant ovaries due to inhibition of ovulation. Analysis of spermatogenesis showed a strongly decreased number of spermatogonia A at onset of sexual maturity. Investigation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis revealed that dysregulation was largely confined to the gonads with significant upregulation of igf3, and a strong decrease in sex steroid production concomitant with alterations in gene expression in steroidogenesis/steroid signaling pathways. Rescue of the phenotype by T3 supplementation starting at 4 weeks resulted in normalization of reproductive activity in both sexes. The combined results show that reproductive function in mutants is severely hampered in both sexes, thereby linking the loss of Dio2 activity and the resulting hypothyroidism to reproductive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Houbrechts
- A Houbrechts, Laboratory of Comparative Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jolien Van Houcke
- J Van houcke, Laboratory of Comparative Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle M Darras
- V Darras, Laboratory of Comparative Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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21
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Tovo-Neto A, da Silva Rodrigues M, Habibi HR, Nóbrega RH. Thyroid hormone actions on male reproductive system of teleost fish. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 265:230-236. [PMID: 29678724 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones (THs) play important roles in the regulation of many biological processes of vertebrates, such as growth, metabolism, morphogenesis and reproduction. An increasing number of studies have been focused on the involvement of THs in the male reproductive system of vertebrates, in particular of fish. Therefore, this mini-review aims to summarize the main findings on THs role in male reproductive system of fish, focusing on sex differentiation, testicular development and spermatogenesis. The existing data in the literature have demonstrated that THs exert their roles at the different levels of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. In general a positive correlation has been shown between THs and fish reproductive status; where THs are associated with testicular development, growth and maturation. Recently, the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of THs in spermatogenesis have been unraveled in zebrafish testis. THs promote germ cell proliferation and differentiation by increasing a stimulatory growth factor of spermatogenesis produced by Sertoli cells. In addition, THs enhanced the gonadotropin-induced androgen release in zebrafish testis. Next to their functions in the adult testis, THs are involved in the gonadal sex differentiation through modulating sex-related gene expression, and testicular development via regulation of Sertoli cell proliferation. In conclusion, this mini-review showed that THs modulate the male reproductive system during the different life stages of fish. The physiological and molecular mechanisms showed a link between the thyroid and reproduction, suggesting a possibly co-evolution and interdependence of these two systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Tovo-Neto
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Aquaculture Program, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil; Departament of Morphology, Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maira da Silva Rodrigues
- Aquaculture Program, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil; Departament of Morphology, Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Hamid R Habibi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Rafael Henrique Nóbrega
- Departament of Morphology, Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
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22
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Basak R, Roy A, Rai U. In silico analysis, temporal expression and gonadotropic regulation of receptors for follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone in testis of spotted snakehead Channa punctata. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2018; 93:53-71. [PMID: 29931764 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.13727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study in spotted snakehead Channa punctata was aimed to develop a comprehensive understanding of testicular gonadotropin receptors, from their sequence characterization, temporal expression to gonadotropic regulation, in seasonally breeding teleosts. A single form of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (cpfshra) and luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (cplhcgr), was identified from testicular transcriptome data of C. punctata. Although deduced full-length protein sequence for cpFshra (694 amino acids) and cpLhcgr (691 amino acids) showed homology with their counterparts of other vertebrates, multiple insertion-deletion-substitution of residues suggest marked alterations in their structure and ligand specificity. The absolute quantification of testicular cpfshra and cplhcgr was estimated along the reproductive cycle following real-time PCR. The temporal expression profile showed highest testicular expression of both the gonadotropin receptors during resting phase. Their expression progressively decreased during preparatory and spawning phases concomitant with spermatogonial proliferation and differentiation and spermiogenesis. However, levels of cpfshra and cplhcgr sharply increased during post-spawning when seminiferous lobules were largely devoid of germ cells. To explore gonadotropic regulation of testicular cpfshra and cplhcgr, one group of fish of resting phase was administered with single dose of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG; 5,000 IU/kg body mass) on day 0 and sacrificed on day 3 and day 5, while another group receiving two injections of hCG (day 0 and day 7) was sacrificed on day 14. The expression pattern of testicular gonadotropin receptors in hCG-treated fish sacrificed after 3, 5 and 14 days was similar to that of preparatory, spawning and postspawning phases, respectively. Likewise, testicular histology of hCG-treated fish sacrificed on day 3, day 5 and day 14 was comparable with that of preparatory, early spawning and late spawning phases, respectively. In light of the fact that gonadotropin receptors are largely expressed on somatic cells, an apparent decrease in testicular cpfshra and cplhcgr levels during preparatory and spawning phases or after 3 and 5 days from first hCG injection might not be due to downregulation of their expression. Rather, this could be due to dilution of somatic cell mRNA by large amount of germ cell mRNA. To verify this assumption, effect of hCG on plasma level of androgens was investigated employing enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A marked increase in plasma level of testosterone and 11-ketotestosterone was observed after hCG treatment in C. punctata. This would have been possible only when hCG upregulated the expression of testicular gonadotropin receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alivia Roy
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Umesh Rai
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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Gangadhar Jadhav V, Bharath Kumar BS, Pandita S. Age-related changes in testicular parameters and their relationship to thyroid hormones and testosterone in male Murrah buffaloes. Arch Anim Breed 2018. [DOI: 10.5194/aab-61-191-2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract. The present study aims to investigate the age-related changes in testicular
parameters and their association with plasma triiodothyronine (T3),
thyroxine (T4), and testosterone in male Murrah buffaloes. Testicular
measurements and single blood samples were collected from male Murrah
buffaloes (n= 103) aged between 6 months and 8 years. The correlation
coefficients of average testicular length (ATL), paired testis width (PTW),
and scrotal circumference (SC) in relation to age were 0.88, 0.91, and 0.90,
respectively. The regression equation between testicular weight (TW) and age
was Y=1.48×x0.005 (r= 0.90; R2= 0.79). Plasma
T4 and testosterone increased significantly (p< 0.001) with age and
their levels ranged between 12.9 and 41.8 and 0.05 and 1.48 ng mL−1, respectively.
With respect to associations between testicular parameters and plasma hormone
levels, we observed significant (p< 0.01) correlations between ATL, PTW,
SC, TW, and plasma T4. A significant correlation (r= 0.31; p< 0.01) between plasma T4 and testosterone levels was also observed.
However, the correlations between plasma T3 and testicular parameters
and plasma T3 and testosterone were non-significant. From the present
study, we conclude that plasma T4 is positively correlated with
testicular parameters and plasma testosterone, indicating its role in testis
development and steroidogenesis.
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24
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Rozenblut-Kościsty B, Piprek R, Pecio A, Bartmańska J, Szymura JM, Ogielska M. The structure of spermatogenic cysts and number of Sertoli cells in the testes of Bombina bombina and Bombina variegata (Bombinatoridae, Anura, Amphibia). ZOOMORPHOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s00435-017-0362-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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25
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De Melo Dias GC, Cassel M, Oliveira De Jesus LW, Batlouni SR, Borella MI. Spermatogonia, Germline Cells, and Testicular Organization in the Characiform Prochilodus lineatus Studied Using Histological, Stereological, and Morphometric Approaches. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2016; 300:589-599. [PMID: 27770506 DOI: 10.1002/ar.23505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2016] [Revised: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Prochilodus lineatus is an important representative of the order Characiformes and a species that offers great advantages to fish farming. Therefore, detailed knowledge of its reproductive biology can be applied to various fields of production and biotechnology. In this study, we have identified testicular germ cells during spermatogenesis and have evaluated the volumetric proportion of the testes occupied by structures of the tubular and intertubular compartments. In addition, the individual volume of type A spermatogonia was measured and used to estimate the mean number of these cells per testis. Gonads of adult P. lineatus males were extracted and fixed. Light and transmission electron microscopy were applied to fragments of three testicular regions. Histological, stereological, and morphometric analyses were performed. The stereological data suggest that components of the tubular and intertubular compartments of the P. lineatus testes present a uniform distribution in all three regions and therefore reflect regions with similar distributions of cell types. In addition, P. lineatus testes showed ∼0.6% of type A spermatogonia, as well as a predominance of cysts of primary spermatocytes and spermatids during the reproductive phase evaluated. The results from this study provide a better understanding of the morphology and structure of the testis and of the characterization of the type A spermatogonia in P. lineatus. The nuclear diameter of germ cells also decreases significantly during spermatogenesis. The data presented herein are the first of its kind for the order Characiformes and may be useful for future biotechnology studies on fish reproduction. Anat Rec, 300:589-599, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisele Cristiane De Melo Dias
- Fish Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mônica Cassel
- Fish Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lázaro Wender Oliveira De Jesus
- Fish Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sergio Ricardo Batlouni
- Reproduction Laboratory, Center of Aquaculture of São Paulo State University (CAUNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Inés Borella
- Fish Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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26
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Safian D, Morais RDVS, Bogerd J, Schulz RW. Igf Binding Proteins Protect Undifferentiated Spermatogonia in the Zebrafish Testis Against Excessive Differentiation. Endocrinology 2016; 157:4423-4433. [PMID: 27689414 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) modulate the availability of IGFs for their cognate receptors. In zebrafish testes, IGF3 promotes the proliferation and differentiation of type A undifferentiated (Aund) spermatogonia, and igf3 expression is strongly elevated by FSH but also responds to T3. Here we report the effects of FSH and T3 on igfbp transcript levels in adult zebrafish testis. We then examined T3 and FSH effects on zebrafish spermatogenesis and explored the relevance of IGFBPs in modulating these T3 or FSH effects, using a primary tissue culture system for adult zebrafish testis. T3 up-regulated igfbp1a and igfbp3 expression, whereas FSH reduced igfbp1a transcript levels. To quantify effects on spermatogenesis, we determined the mitotic index and relative section areas occupied by Aund, type A differentiating, or type B spermatogonia. In general, T3 and FSH stimulated spermatogonial proliferation and increased the areas occupied by spermatogonia, suggesting that both self-renewal and differentiating divisions were stimulated. Preventing IGF/IGFBP interaction by NBI-31772 further increased T3- or FSH-induced spermatogonial proliferation. However, under these conditions the more differentiated type A differentiating and B spermatogonia occupied larger surface areas at the expense of the area held by Aund spermatogonia. Clearly decreased nanos2 transcript levels are in agreement with this finding, and reduced amh expression may have facilitated spermatogonial differentiation. We conclude that elevating IGF3 bioactivity by blocking IGFBPs shifted T3- or FSH-induced signaling from stimulating spermatogonial self-renewal as well as differentiation toward predominantly stimulating spermatogonial differentiation, which leads to a depletion of type Aund spermatogonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Safian
- Reproductive Biology Group (D.S., R.D.V.S.M., J.B., R.W.S.), Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Utrecht, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; and Institute of Marine Research (R.W.S.), Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Roberto D V S Morais
- Reproductive Biology Group (D.S., R.D.V.S.M., J.B., R.W.S.), Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Utrecht, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; and Institute of Marine Research (R.W.S.), Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Jan Bogerd
- Reproductive Biology Group (D.S., R.D.V.S.M., J.B., R.W.S.), Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Utrecht, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; and Institute of Marine Research (R.W.S.), Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Rüdiger W Schulz
- Reproductive Biology Group (D.S., R.D.V.S.M., J.B., R.W.S.), Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Utrecht, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; and Institute of Marine Research (R.W.S.), Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway
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27
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Melo RMC, Ribeiro YM, Luz RK, Bazzoli N, Rizzo E. Influence of low temperature on structure and dynamics of spermatogenesis during culture of Oreochromis niloticus. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 172:148-56. [PMID: 27477114 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Revised: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the influence of different temperature conditions on the spermatogenesis is important for improvement of the fish aquaculture. This study evaluated the influence of low temperature on structural and quantitative dynamics of the spermatogenesis in Oreochromis niloticus. Adult males were cultivated with room temperature water (20.28-22.46°C) and testes were collected for histological, ultrastructural and morphometric analyses. This species has unrestricted lobular testis with cystic spermatogenesis and type I spermiogenesis that results in a single anacrosomal aquasperm. Seminiferous lobules and spermatogenic cells had a radial arrangement toward the spermatic duct. Superior and central portions of testes had a greater lobular area than the inferior portion in all samplings. Spermatogonia (9.3%) were distributed in the inferior portion of testes, spermatocytes (25.3%) and spermatids (34.4%) in the central portion, while spermatozoids (39.4%) and secretory cells (4.6%) in the superior portion. Throughout the study, correlation between water temperature and lobular area characteristics was significant only in the inferior portion of testes (r(2)=0.95), although the lobular area in the other testicular portions increased when the water temperature increased by 2°C. Correlation between the water temperature and spermatogenic cells was significant for undifferentiated spermatogonia (r(2)=0.54) and number of spermatids (r(2)=0.67). It is concluded that low cultivation temperatures may positively influence the generation of primary spermatogonia in the inferior periphery of O. niloticus testes. In addition, males maintain reservoirs of germ cells at low temperatures and the radial zonation of spermatogenesis has an important role in the renewal and production of germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael M C Melo
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Yves M Ribeiro
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ronald K Luz
- Laboratório de Aquacultura, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Nilo Bazzoli
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Zoologia de Vertebrados, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Elizete Rizzo
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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28
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Valentin FN, Batlouni SR, Nascimento NF, Silva RC, Manzini B, Hilbig CC, Pereira-Santos M, Nakaghi LSO. Ovarian differentiation and development in cachara Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2016; 89:445-466. [PMID: 27401482 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.13034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2015] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
One thousand five hundred cachara or tiger shovelnose catfish Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum, obtained from induced reproduction, were used to determine the onset of ovarian differentiation and development and to record the main characteristics of this process. Samples were collected from 0 to 240 days post-fertilization (dpf) and the results classified into stages I-XII. Ovarian formation was histologically detected for the first time when juveniles measured mean ± s.d. 51·5 ± 8·3 mm total length (LT ) at 39-45 dpf (stages I-V), with intense somatic cell proliferation originating in the ovarian cavity. Both LT and age of fish had a positive correlation (P < 0·001) with ovarian differentiation, but LT showed a greater correlation (r(2) = 0·95) than age (r(2) = 0·85), especially during the initial stages of development. From stages VI to VII, the ovarian cavity was enlarged and undifferentiated oogonia were present. At stage VIII, small projections formed in the ovarian stroma towards the ventral region of the gonad (future ovarian lamellae) and the basal membrane and differentiated oogonia nests could be seen. At stages IX and X, the germ cells entered meiosis and folliculogenesis was completed by stages XI and XII, which can be considered late in comparison to other Siluriformes. This study has demonstrated that ovarian differentiation in P. fasciatum begins with an intense proliferation of squamous epithelial cells (somatic cells) during the early stages of development and that sex inversion protocols could, thus, be applied successfully before this period. Furthermore, the results have demonstrated that both size and age can influence gonad differentiation and development in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- F N Valentin
- Centro de Aquicultura da Universidade Estadual Paulista (CAUNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - S R Batlouni
- Centro de Aquicultura da Universidade Estadual Paulista (CAUNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - N F Nascimento
- Centro de Aquicultura da Universidade Estadual Paulista (CAUNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - R C Silva
- Centro de Aquicultura da Universidade Estadual Paulista (CAUNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - B Manzini
- Laboratório de Histologia e Embriologia do Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - C C Hilbig
- Centro de Aquicultura da Universidade Estadual Paulista (CAUNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M Pereira-Santos
- Centro de Aquicultura da Universidade Estadual Paulista (CAUNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - L S O Nakaghi
- Centro de Aquicultura da Universidade Estadual Paulista (CAUNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
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29
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França LR, Hess RA, Dufour JM, Hofmann MC, Griswold MD. The Sertoli cell: one hundred fifty years of beauty and plasticity. Andrology 2016; 4:189-212. [PMID: 26846984 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 259] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2015] [Revised: 12/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
It has been one and a half centuries since Enrico Sertoli published the seminal discovery of the testicular 'nurse cell', not only a key cell in the testis, but indeed one of the most amazing cells in the vertebrate body. In this review, we begin by examining the three phases of morphological research that have occurred in the study of Sertoli cells, because microscopic anatomy was essentially the only scientific discipline available for about the first 75 years after the discovery. Biochemistry and molecular biology then changed all of biological sciences, including our understanding of the functions of Sertoli cells. Immunology and stem cell biology were not even topics of science in 1865, but they have now become major issues in our appreciation of Sertoli cell's role in spermatogenesis. We end with the universal importance and plasticity of function by comparing Sertoli cells in fish, amphibians, and mammals. In these various classes of vertebrates, Sertoli cells have quite different modes of proliferation and epithelial maintenance, cystic vs. tubular formation, yet accomplish essentially the same function but in strikingly different ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- L R França
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.,National Institute for Amazonian Research (INPA), Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
| | - R A Hess
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology, Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - J M Dufour
- Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - M C Hofmann
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - M D Griswold
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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Ahmadivand S, Farahmand H, Teimoori-Toolabi L, Mirvaghefi A, Eagderi S, Geerinckx T, Shokrpoor S, Rahmati-Holasoo H. Boule gene expression underpins the meiotic arrest in spermatogenesis in male rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) exposed to DEHP and butachlor. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 225:235-241. [PMID: 26027538 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2015.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2015] [Revised: 04/25/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Boule, the ancestor of the DAZ (Deleted in AZoospermia) gene family, in most organisms is mainly involved in male meiosis. The present study investigates the effects of the plasticizer DEHP (50mg/kg body weight) and herbicide butachlor (0.39mg/L) on male rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) for a 10-day period in two independent experiments. The results showed that plasma testosterone (T) concentrations were significantly lower in fish exposed to either DEHP or butachlor compared to the control fish (P<0.05). Fish showed a significantly elevated hepatosomatic index (HSI) in the butachlor treatment (P<0.05). However, no significant difference was observed in HSI values in the DEHP treatment (P>0.05). In addition, no significant differences were found in the gonadosomatic index (GSI) in both DEHP and butachlor treatments (P>0.05). Histologically, testes of male trout in the control groups were well differentiated and filled with large numbers of cystic structures containing spermatozoa. In contrast, the testes of male trout contained mostly spermatocytes with few spermatozoa in both treated group, suggesting that DEHP and butachlor may inhibit the progression of meiosis. Also, boule gene expression was significantly lower in the testes of male trout affected by DEHP and butachlor in comparison with their control groups (P<0.05), which confirmed the meiotic arrest in affected trout. Based on the results, the present study demonstrated that DEHP and butachlor can inhibit the progression of spermatogenesis in male trout, potentially by causing an arrest of meiosis, maybe due to down-regulation of boule gene expression through T and/or IGF1 via ERK1/2 signaling in T-independent pathways. In addition, these results confirmed that boule can be considered as a predictive marker to assess meiotic efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohrab Ahmadivand
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, P.O. Box: 14155-6453, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hamid Farahmand
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 4314, Karaj, Iran
| | - Ladan Teimoori-Toolabi
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, P.O. Box: 13169-43551, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Mirvaghefi
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 4314, Karaj, Iran
| | - Soheil Eagderi
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 4314, Karaj, Iran
| | - Tom Geerinckx
- Department of Biology, Evolutionary Morphology of Vertebrates, Ghent University (UGent), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sara Shokrpoor
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, P.O. Box: 14155-6453, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hooman Rahmati-Holasoo
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, P.O. Box: 14155-6453, Tehran, Iran
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31
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Yu L, Han Z, Liu C. A review on the effects of PBDEs on thyroid and reproduction systems in fish. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2015; 219:64-73. [PMID: 25585150 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Revised: 12/05/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this review was to summarize and discuss the effects of Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) on thyroid and reproduction systems in fish. We reviewed the evidences and mechanisms for PBDEs-induced thyroid and reproduction disruption, as well as the cross-talk between the two systems in fish. In thyroid disruption, we mainly paid attention to the effects of PBDEs on hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, thyroid hormones (THs) transport and metabolism, thyroid receptors (TRs) and thyroid follicle histology. In reproduction disruption, we focused on the effects of PBDEs on steroid hormone production, expression of genes involved in steroidogenesis, and gonadal development. Despite that there is an interaction between thyroid and reproductive systems in fish, it is still remains unclear that PBDE-induced reproductive impairments are caused by direct effects on hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) functioning or by indirect action through cross-talk between the two systems. Future studies are needed to explore the relationships between reproductive toxicity and thyroid system disruption after PBDEs exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqin Yu
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Zhihua Han
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, MEP, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210042, China.
| | - Chunsheng Liu
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China.
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32
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Furin CG, von Hippel FA, Postlethwait JH, Buck CL, Cresko WA, O'Hara TM. Developmental timing of sodium perchlorate exposure alters angiogenesis, thyroid follicle proliferation and sexual maturation in stickleback. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2015; 219:24-35. [PMID: 25865142 PMCID: PMC4508251 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2015.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2014] [Revised: 03/15/2015] [Accepted: 04/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Perchlorate, a common aquatic contaminant, is well known to disrupt homeostasis of the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis. This study utilizes the threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) fish to determine if perchlorate exposure during certain windows of development has morphological effects on thyroid and gonads. Fish were moved from untreated water to perchlorate-contaminated water (30 and 100mg/L) starting at 0, 3, 7, 14, 21, 42, 154 and 305 days post fertilization until approximately one year old. A reciprocal treatment (fish in contaminated water switched to untreated water) was conducted on the same schedule. Perchlorate exposure increased angiogenesis and follicle proliferation in thyroid tissue, delayed gonadal maturity, and skewed sex ratios toward males; effects depended on concentration and timing of exposure. This study demonstrates that perchlorate exposure beginning during the first 42 days of development has profound effects on stickleback reproductive and thyroid tissues, and by implication can impact population dynamics. Long-term exposure studies that assess contaminant effects at various stages of development provide novel information to characterize risk to aquatic organisms, to facilitate management of resources, and to determine sensitive developmental windows for further study of underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoff G Furin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alaska Anchorage, 3211 Providence Dr., Anchorage, AK 99508, USA; Department of Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 902 N. Koyukuk Dr., P.O. Box 757000, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA.
| | - Frank A von Hippel
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alaska Anchorage, 3211 Providence Dr., Anchorage, AK 99508, USA.
| | - John H Postlethwait
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 1254 University of Oregon, 324 Huestis Hall, Eugene, OR 97403, USA.
| | - C Loren Buck
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alaska Anchorage, 3211 Providence Dr., Anchorage, AK 99508, USA
| | - William A Cresko
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, 312 Pacific Hall, Eugene, OR 97403, USA.
| | - Todd M O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, P.O. Box 757750, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7750, USA.
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33
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Lacerda SMDSN, Costa GMJ, de França LR. Biology and identity of fish spermatogonial stem cell. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 207:56-65. [PMID: 24967950 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2014] [Revised: 06/11/2014] [Accepted: 06/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Although present at relatively low number in the testis, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are crucial for the establishment and maintenance of spermatogenesis in eukaryotes and, until recently, those cells were investigated in fish using morphological criteria. The isolation and characterization of these cells in fish have been so far limited by the lack of specific molecular markers, hampering the high SSCs biotechnological potential for aquaculture. However, some highly conserved vertebrate molecular markers, such as Gfra1 and Pou5f1/Oct4, are now available representing important candidates for studies evaluating the regulation of SSCs in fish and even functional investigations using germ cells transplantation. A technique already used to demonstrate that, different from mammals, fish germ stem cells (spermatogonia and oogonia) present high sexual plasticity that is determined by the somatic microenvironment. As relatively well established in mammals, and demonstrated in zebrafish and dogfish, this somatic environment is very important for the preferential location and regulation of SSCs. Importantly, a long-term in vitro culture system for SSCs has been now established for some fish species. Therefore, besides the aforementioned possibilities, such culture system would allow the development of strategies to in vitro investigate key regulatory and functional aspects of germline stem cells (ex: self-renewal and/or differentiation) or to amplify SSCs of rare, endangered, or commercially valuable fish species, representing an important tool for transgenesis and the development of new biotechnologies in fish production.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guilherme Mattos Jardim Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Luiz Renato de França
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil.
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Flood DEK, Langlois VS. Crosstalk between the thyroid hormone and androgen axes during reproductive development in Silurana tropicalis. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 203:232-40. [PMID: 24713448 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.03.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Revised: 03/10/2014] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to examine the effects of potassium perchlorate (KClO4) treatment on androgen- and thyroid hormone (TH)-related transcript levels during gonadogenesis in the frog Silurana tropicalis. Androgen- and TH-related gene expression was examined in gonad-mesonephros complex (GMC) and liver tissues at stage NF 56 and stage NF 60. These stages of development coincide with the period of sexual differentiation. Real-time RT-PCR analyses revealed that androgen- and TH-related transcript levels in the GMC and liver of stage NF 56 and NF 60 frogs are responsive to KClO4 exposure during prometamorphosis. An increase in srd5α2 mRNA levels in hepatic tissues of KClO4-treated NF 56 tadpoles suggests an important role for hepatic tissues in androgen metabolism. Gene transcript differences highlight possible stage- and tissue-specific sensitivities to KClO4. A greater number of TH- and androgen-related transcriptional changes were discerned in the hepatic tissues compared to the gonads, and overall fewer transcriptional changes were observed in stage NF 60 tadpoles compared to stage NF 56 larvae. Perchlorate suppressed somatic and hind-limb development during the 96-d exposure period. Treatment with KClO4 had no significant effect on sex ratios, however a notable reduction in the percentage of males (33.3% M: 66.7% F) in the highest KClO4 concentration (107 μg/L) was observed. Overall, these findings suggest that KClO4 has secondary androgenic disrupting properties in addition to its known primary thyroid hormone-disrupting role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana E K Flood
- Biology Department, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
| | - Valerie S Langlois
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Royal Military College of Canada, ON, Canada; Biology Department, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
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35
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Duarte-Guterman P, Navarro-Martín L, Trudeau VL. Mechanisms of crosstalk between endocrine systems: regulation of sex steroid hormone synthesis and action by thyroid hormones. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 203:69-85. [PMID: 24685768 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2013] [Revised: 03/15/2014] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones (THs) are well-known regulators of development and metabolism in vertebrates. There is increasing evidence that THs are also involved in gonadal differentiation and reproductive function. Changes in TH status affect sex ratios in developing fish and frogs and reproduction (e.g., fertility), hormone levels, and gonad morphology in adults of species of different vertebrates. In this review, we have summarized and compared the evidence for cross-talk between the steroid hormone and thyroid axes and present a comparative model. We gave special attention to TH regulation of sex steroid synthesis and action in both the brain and gonad, since these are important for gonad development and brain sexual differentiation and have been studied in many species. We also reviewed research showing that there is a TH system, including receptors and enzymes, in the brains and gonads in developing and adult vertebrates. Our analysis shows that THs influences sex steroid hormone synthesis in vertebrates, ranging from fish to pigs. This concept of crosstalk and conserved hormone interaction has implications for our understanding of the role of THs in reproduction, and how these processes may be dysregulated by environmental endocrine disruptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Duarte-Guterman
- Centre for Advanced Research in Environmental Genomics, Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Laia Navarro-Martín
- Centre for Advanced Research in Environmental Genomics, Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Vance L Trudeau
- Centre for Advanced Research in Environmental Genomics, Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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36
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Sousa AL, Campos-Junior PHA, Costa GMJ, de França LR. Spermatogenic Cycle Length and Sperm Production in the Freshwater Turtle Kinosternon scorpioides1. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:35. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.112391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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37
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Morais RDVS, Nóbrega RH, Gómez-González NE, Schmidt R, Bogerd J, França LR, Schulz RW. Thyroid hormone stimulates the proliferation of Sertoli cells and single type A spermatogonia in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) testis. Endocrinology 2013; 154:4365-76. [PMID: 24002037 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones participate in regulating growth and homeostatic processes in vertebrates, including development and adult functioning of the reproductive system. Here we report a new stimulatory role of thyroid hormone on the proliferation of Sertoli cells (SCs) and single, type A undifferentiated spermatogonia (A(und)) in adult zebrafish testes. A role for T3 in zebrafish testis is suggested by in situ hybridization studies, which localized thyroid receptor α (thrα) in SCs and the β (thrβ) mRNA in Sertoli and Leydig cells. Using a primary zebrafish testis tissue culture system, the effect of T3 on steroid release, spermatogenesis, and the expression of selected genes was evaluated. Basal steroid release and Leydig cell gene expression did not change in response to T3. However, in the presence of FSH, T3 potentiated gonadotropin-stimulated androgen release as well as androgen receptor (ar) and 17α-hydroxylase/17,20 lyase (cyp17a1) gene expression. Moreover, T3 alone stimulated the proliferation of both SCs and A(und), potentially resulting in newly formed spermatogonial cysts. Additional tissue culture studies demonstrated that Igf3, a new, gonad-specific member of the IGF family, mediated the stimulatory effect of T3 on the proliferation of A(und) and SCs. Finally, T3 induced changes in connexin 43 mRNA levels in the testis, a known T3-responsive gene. Taken together, our studies suggest that T3 expands the population of SCs and A(und) involving Igf signaling and potentiates gonadotropin-stimulated testicular androgen production as well as androgen sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- R D V S Morais
- Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Johnson KM, Lema SC. Tissue-specific thyroid hormone regulation of gene transcripts encoding iodothyronine deiodinases and thyroid hormone receptors in striped parrotfish (Scarus iseri). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2011; 172:505-17. [PMID: 21549118 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2011.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2010] [Revised: 04/11/2011] [Accepted: 04/19/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
In fish as in other vertebrates, the diverse functions of thyroid hormones are mediated at the peripheral tissue level through iodothyronine deiodinase (dio) enzymes and thyroid hormone receptor (tr) proteins. In this study, we examined thyroid hormone regulation of mRNAs encoding the three deiodinases dio1, dio2 and dio3 - as well as three thyroid hormone receptors trαA, trαB and trβ - in initial phase striped parrotfish (Scarus iseri). Parrotfish were treated with dissolved phase T(3) (20 nM) or methimazole (3 mM) for 3 days. Treatment with exogenous T(3) elevated circulating T(3), while the methimazole treatment depressed plasma T(4). Experimentally-induced hyperthyroidism increased the relative abundance of transcripts encoding trαA and trβ in the liver and brain, but did not affect trαB mRNA levels in either tissue. In both sexes, methimazole-treated fish exhibited elevated dio2 transcripts in the liver and brain, suggesting enhanced outer-ring deiodination activity in these tissues. Accordingly, systemic hyperthyroidism elevated relative dio3 transcript levels in these same tissues. In the gonad, however, patterns of transcript regulation were distinctly different with elevated T(3) increasing mRNAs encoding dio2 in testicular and ovarian tissues and dio3, trαA and trαB in the testes only. Thyroid hormone status did not affect dio1 transcript abundance in the liver, brain or gonads. Taken as a whole, these results demonstrate that thyroidal status influences relative transcript abundance for dio2 and dio3 in the liver, provide new evidence for similar patterns of dio2 and dio3 mRNA regulation in the brain, and make evident that fish exhibit tr subtype-specific transcript abundance changes to altered thyroid status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin M Johnson
- Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina-Wilmington, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA
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Abstract
Germ cell tumors are neoplasms arising from pluripotent germ cells. In humans, these tumors occur in infants, children and young adults. The tumors display a wide range of histologic differentiation states which exhibit different clinical behaviors. Information about the molecular basis of germ cell tumors, and representative animal models of these neoplasms, are lacking. Germline development in zebrafish and humans is broadly conserved, making the fish a useful model to probe the connections between germ cell development and tumorigenesis. Here, we provide an overview of germline development and a brief review of germ cell tumor biology in humans and zebrafish. We also outline some methods for studying the zebrafish germline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanie C. Neumann
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390 USA
,Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390 USA
| | - Kate Lillard
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390 USA
,Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390 USA
| | - Vanessa Damoulis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390 USA
,Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390 USA
| | - James F. Amatruda
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390 USA
,Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390 USA
,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390 USA
,Corresponding Author: Depts. of Pediatrics, Internal Medicine and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical Center 5323 Harry Hines Blvd. Dallas, TX 75390-8534 Phone: 214-648-1645 FAX: 214-645-5915
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40
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Wagner MS, Wajner SM, Maia AL. Is there a role for thyroid hormone on spermatogenesis? Microsc Res Tech 2009; 72:796-808. [DOI: 10.1002/jemt.20759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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41
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Leal MC, Cardoso ER, Nóbrega RH, Batlouni SR, Bogerd J, França LR, Schulz RW. Histological and Stereological Evaluation of Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Spermatogenesis with an Emphasis on Spermatogonial Generations1. Biol Reprod 2009; 81:177-87. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.076299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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42
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Alvarenga ÉRD, França LRD. Effects of Different Temperatures on Testis Structure and Function, with Emphasis on Somatic Cells, in Sexually Mature Nile Tilapias (Oreochromis niloticus)1. Biol Reprod 2009; 80:537-44. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.072827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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43
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Nóbrega RH, Batlouni SR, França LR. An overview of functional and stereological evaluation of spermatogenesis and germ cell transplantation in fish. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2009; 35:197-206. [PMID: 18716890 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-008-9252-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2008] [Accepted: 07/22/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Although there are almost thirty-thousand species of fish living in a great variety of habitats and utilizing vast reproductive strategies, our knowledge of morphofunctional and quantitative aspects of testis structure and spermatogenesis is still incipient for this group of vertebrates. In this review, we discuss aspects that are important to better understanding of testis structure and function, and of the development of germ cells (GC) during spermatogenesis. To achieve this, we have recently completed a number of studies presenting morphometric and functional data related to the numbers of GC and Sertoli cells (SC) per each type of spermatogenic cyst, the number of spermatogonial generations, the SC efficiency, and the magnitude of GC loss that normally occurs during spermatogenesis. We also investigated SC proliferation and the relationship of this important event to early spermatogenic cysts. The available data strongly suggest that SC proliferation in sexually mature tilapia is the primary factor responsible for the increase in testis size and for determination of the magnitude of sperm production. The influence of temperature on the duration of spermatogenesis in tilapia was also evaluated and we have used this knowledge to deplete endogenous spermatogenesis in this teleost, in order to develop an experimental system for GC transplantation. This exciting technique results in new possibilities for investigation of spermatogenesis and spermatogonial stem cell biology, creating also an entirely new and promising scenario in biotechnology-transgenic animal production and the preservation of the genetic stocks of valuable animals or endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- R H Nóbrega
- Department of Morphology, Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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44
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Abstract
Thyroid hormone is a critical regulator of growth, development, and metabolism in virtually all tissues, and altered thyroid status affects many organs and systems. Although for many years testis has been regarded as a thyroid hormone unresponsive organ, it is now evident that thyroid hormone plays an important role in testicular development and function. A considerable amount of data show that thyroid hormone influences steroidogenesis as well as spermatogenesis. The involvement of tri-iodothyronine (T(3)) in the control of Sertoli cell proliferation and functional maturation is widely accepted, as well as its role in postnatal Leydig cell differentiation and steroidogenesis. The presence of thyroid hormone receptors in testicular cells throughout development and in adulthood implies that T(3) may act directly on these cells to bring about its effects. Several recent studies have employed different methodologies and techniques in an attempt to understand the mechanisms underlying thyroid hormone effects on testicular cells. The current review aims at presenting an updated picture of the recent advances made regarding the role of thyroid hormones in male gonadal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Márcia Santos Wagner
- Endocrine Division, Thyroid Section, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, 90035-033, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
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45
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Krassas GE, Papadopoulou F, Tziomalos K, Zeginiadou T, Pontikides N. Hypothyroidism has an adverse effect on human spermatogenesis: a prospective, controlled study. Thyroid 2008; 18:1255-9. [PMID: 19012472 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2008.0257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abnormalities of spermatogenesis are associated with numerous diseases and aging. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of hypothyroidism on human spermatogenesis and different sperm function tests. METHODS Twenty-five hypothyroid men and 15 normal individuals were investigated. Semen analysis, fructose and acid phosphatase measurements, teratozoospermia index (TZI), and acridine orange test were determined before and 6-9 months after the initiation of treatment with levothyroxine. RESULTS Morphology is the only sperm parameter that differs significantly between hypothyroid patients and controls (p < 0.0001). After treatment, morphology improved significantly (p < 0.001). Motility was also decreased before treatment in comparison with controls, and improved after treatment. However, the difference was not significant. TZI correlated with free thyroxine. CONCLUSIONS Hypothyroidism has an adverse effect on human spermatogenesis. Morphology is the only sperm parameter that is significantly affected. Motility may also be affected, but further studies regarding this are needed. Screening for thyroid dysfunction in males who present with a defect in spermatogenesis is strongly recommended, and if hypothyroidism is noted, the response to thyroid hormone should be evaluated before initiating other treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerasimos E Krassas
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Panagia General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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46
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Almeida FFL, Kristoffersen C, Taranger GL, Schulz RW. Spermatogenesis in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua): a novel model of cystic germ cell development. Biol Reprod 2007; 78:27-34. [PMID: 17881768 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.107.063669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Precocious male puberty significantly compromises sustainability aspects of aquaculture in a number of finfish species. As part of a program aiming to understand and eventually control testis maturation in farmed Atlantic cod, we studied the first reproductive cycle. The gonadosomatic index shows a 41-fold increase from immature (August) to mature (March) stages, reaching almost 10% of the total body weight. The paired cod testes are composed of several lobes arranged around a central collecting duct. In each individual lobe, spermatogenesis occurs in a marked gradient of development, with undifferentiated spermatogonia in the periphery of the lobe and the most advanced germ cells in the vicinity of the collecting duct, suggesting a tight spatiotemporal organization of spermatogenesis in the testis lobes of this species. Spermatogonial proliferation starts in August and continues for about 6 mo. Meiosis and spermiogenesis are first observed in October and are completed in all cysts by February, when a 2-mo-long spawning season starts. Spermatogonia go through 11 mitotic divisions before differentiating to primary spermatocytes. Apoptosis is rare, but when observed it occurs mainly during the last spermatogonial generations. Our observations suggest a model in which a maturational wave progresses through each growing lobe that is first driven by appositional growth from the lobe's periphery, reflecting spermatogonial proliferation and cyst formation which, when ceasing, is terminated by completing spermiogenesis and spermiation that progress toward the lobe's periphery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda F L Almeida
- Research Group Endocrinology & Metabolism, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Utrecht University, 3508 TB, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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47
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Bizzott PM, Godinho HP. Morphometric evaluation of the spermatogenesis in trahira Hoplias malabaricus (Bloch) (Characiformes, Erythrinidae). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1590/s0101-81752007000300003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The Erythrinidae trahira, Hoplias malabaricus (Bloch, 1794), is widespread throughout South America river basins. We determined Sertoli cell supporting capacity (ratio of primary spermatocytes: Sertoli cells and spermatids: Sertoli cells), meiotic index (ratio of spermatids: primary spermatocytes) and the number of spermatogonial mitotic generations of this fish. The fish were captured in the Igarapava reservoir, Grande River, Alto Paraná River basin, Brazil. Testis fragments of three sexually mature trahiras were fixed in 5% buffered glutaraldehyde solution and embedded in glycol methacrylate. Serial sections of 2 and 3 µm in thickness were stained with 0.5% toluidine blue. Histological counts from cysts of primary spermatocytes and spermatids revealed, respectively, 326 ± 99 and 468 ± 73 nuclei of these cells. Sertoli cell supporting capacity was considerably higher for spermatids (113.3 ± 16:1) when compared to primary spermatocytes (71 ± 5:1). Between eight and ten spermatogonial generations were formed to give rise to primary spermatocytes. These values were within the generation range of those already found in freshwater teleosts of external fertilization. Correlation between the number of Sertoli cells and primary spermatocytes per cyst, and Sertoli cells and spermatids per cyst were statistically significant (p < 0.05).
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Moens LN, van der Ven K, Van Remortel P, Del-Favero J, De Coen WM. Expression Profiling of Endocrine-Disrupting Compounds Using a Customized Cyprinus carpio cDNA Microarray. Toxicol Sci 2006; 93:298-310. [PMID: 16835292 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfl057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to a variety of anthropogenic compounds has been shown to interfere with normal development, physiology, and reproduction in a wide range of organisms, both in laboratory studies and wildlife. We have developed a Cyprinus carpio cDNA microarray consisting of endocrine-related genes. In the current study, we investigated the applicability of this microarray (1) to study the molecular effects induced by exposure to a variety of endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) in fish and (2) to discriminate the specific transcriptional profiles associated with these compounds. To that purpose, gene expression profiles were generated in livers of juvenile carp exposed to 14 Organization of Economical Cooperation Development (OECD)-recommended reference EDCs (17beta-estradiol, 17alpha-ethinylestradiol, 4-nonylphenol, bisphenol A, tamoxifen, 17alpha-methyltestosterone, 11-ketotestosterone, dibutyl phthalate, flutamide, vinclozolin, hydrocortisone, CuCl(2), propylthiouracil, and a mixture of L-triiodothyronine and L-thyroxine). Our results show that, in addition to some expression similarities between analogous acting substances, each individual compound produced its own unique expression pattern on the array, distinct from the profiles generated by the other compounds. In addition, we were able to identify a minimal subset of genes, which also allowed to discriminate between the different compounds. Overall, our findings suggest that the developed cDNA array has great promise to screen new and existing chemicals on their endocrine-disruptive potential and to identify distinct classes of EDCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte N Moens
- Department of Biology, Laboratory for Ecophysiology, Biochemistry and Toxicology, Intelligent Systems Laboratory, University of Antwerp, B-2020 Antwerp, Belgium.
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Tarulli GA, Stanton PG, Lerchl A, Meachem SJ. Adult sertoli cells are not terminally differentiated in the Djungarian hamster: effect of FSH on proliferation and junction protein organization. Biol Reprod 2006; 74:798-806. [PMID: 16407497 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.105.050450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cell number is considered to be stable and unmodifiable by hormones after puberty in mammals, although recent data using the seasonal breeding adult Djungarian hamster (Phodopus sungorus) model challenged this assertion by demonstrating a decrease in Sertoli cell number after gonadotropin depletion and a return to control levels following 7 days of FSH replacement. The present study aimed to determine whether adult Sertoli cells are terminally differentiated using known characteristics of cellular differentiation, including proliferation, junction protein localization, and expression of particular maturational markers, in the Djungarian hamster model. Adult long-day (LD) photoperiod (16L:8D) hamsters were exposed to short-day (SD) photoperiod (8L:16D) for 11 wk to suppress gonadotropins and then received exogenous FSH for up to 10 days. Sertoli cell proliferation was assessed by immunofluorescence by the colocalization of GATA4 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen and quantified by stereology. Markers of Sertoli cell maturation (immature, cytokeratin 18 [KRT18]; mature, GATA1) and junction proteins (actin, espin, claudin 11 [CLDN11], and tight junction protein 1 [TJP1, also known as ZO-1]) also were localized using confocal immunofluorescence. In response to FSH treatment, proliferation was upregulated within 2 days compared with SD controls (90% vs. 0.2%, P < 0.001) and declined gradually thereafter. In LD hamsters, junction proteins colocalized at the basal aspect of Sertoli cells, consistent with inter-Sertoli cell junctions, and were disordered within the Sertoli cell cytoplasm in SD animals. Exogenous FSH treatment promptly restored localization of these junction markers to the LD phenotype. Protein markers of maturity remain consistent with those of adult Sertoli cells. It is concluded that adult Sertoli cells are not terminally differentiated in the Djungarian hamster and that FSH plays an important role in governing the differentiation process. It is proposed that Sertoli cells can enter a transitional state, exhibiting features common to both undifferentiated and differentiated Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard A Tarulli
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton Victoria, 3168, Australia
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50
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Leal MC, França LR. The seminiferous epithelium cycle length in the black tufted-ear marmoset (Callithrix penicillata) is similar to humans. Biol Reprod 2005; 74:616-24. [PMID: 16319285 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.105.048074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Marmosets are New World small primates phylogenetically close to humans and are commonly used in biomedical research. Although the reproductive biology of the common marmoset Callithrix jacchus is fairly well investigated, there are few data available for testis function for its close relative, Callithrix penicillata. In this regard, the present study was performed to investigate testis structure, spermatogenic cycle length, and spermatogenic and Sertoli cell efficiencies in eight captive C. penicillata. These animals received (3)H-thymidine injections and had their testes perfused-fixed with glutaraldehyde and embedded in plastic at different time periods after (3)H-thymidine injections, for histomorphometric and autoradiographic evaluation. The analysis of the different germ cell associations showed that two or more stages were observed in about 30% of the seminiferous tubule cross sections investigated. The values found for spermatogenic cycle length and for total duration of spermatogenesis in the marmoset C. penicillata, 15.4 and 69.3 days respectively, were very close to those cited in the literature for humans. However, the results observed for Sertoli cell efficiency (number of round spermatids per Sertoli cell; 8:1) and spermatogenic efficiency (daily sperm production per gram of testis; 18.4 million) were substantially higher than those observed for humans. The results found in the present investigation suggest that the black tufted-ear marmoset C. penicillata might represent an alternative and useful experimental model to perform comparative studies regarding the spermatogenic process, particularly in investigations related to the expansion of spermatogonial stem cells and the establishment of spermatogenic waves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo C Leal
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte MG, Brazil
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