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Ma L, Yuan L, Qi Y, Zeng J, Lv J, Qie X. Morphological characteristics and distribution identification of telocytes in Tibetan sheep testis and epididymis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:22783. [PMID: 39353982 PMCID: PMC11445498 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-73432-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 10/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) are a type of stromal cell discovered in the various organs of different animals and have many potential functions, including angiogenesis, signalling, and substance transport. However, the TCs have not been detected in the testis or epididymis of Tibetan sheep. This study investigated the position, characteristics, and distribution of TCs in the testis and epididymis of Tibetan sheep using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), toluidine blue staining, immunohistochemistry, and double immunofluorescence to elucidate their possible functions. TEM revealed that TCs were often found near basement membranes and capillaries and were characterised by large nuclei, elongated cytoplasmic protrusions, and many secretory vesicles. We also observed via toluidine staining that TCs were present near basement membrane and interstitial capillaries. Immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence revealed the positive expression of CD117, vimentin, platelet derived growth factor receptor α(PDGFRα), PDGFRα + CD117, and PDGFRα + vimentin in TCs. Additionally, we inferred that TCs participates in the formation of the blood-testis and blood-epididymis barriers, as well as in material transport and a stable microenvironment. This study presents the first evidence of the presence of TCs near the basement membrane and blood vessels in the testis and epididymis of Tibetan sheep. These findings provide new insights into the function of TCs in the reproductive systems of plateau animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Ligang Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China.
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology and Reproductive Regulation of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, 730070, China.
| | - Yumei Qi
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Jianlin Zeng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Jinhan Lv
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Xiaolong Qie
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
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Huang F, Wang J, Wang H, Hu Y, Li Z, Xu J, Qin M, Wen X, Cao S, Guan X, Duan P, Chen H, Chen C. Effects of Leydig cell elimination on testicular interstitial cell populations: characterization by scRNA-seq and immunocytochemical techniques. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1423801. [PMID: 39229372 PMCID: PMC11368788 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1423801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The mammalian testicular interstitial cells are not well-defined. The present study characterized the interstitial cell types and their turnover dynamics in adult rats. Additionally, the heterogeneity of the mesenchymal population and the effects of Leydig cell elimination on interstitial homeostasis were further analyzed by scRNA-seq datasets and immunocytochemical techniques. Methods Interstitial cells were defined at the transcriptomic level by scRNA-seq and then confirmed and quantified with protein markers. The dividing activity of the major cell types was determined by continuous EdU labeling of the animals for one week. Some of the rats were also treated with a dose of ethylenedimethylsulfonate (EDS) to examine how the loss of Leydig cells (LCs) could affect interstitial homeostasis for three weeks. Results Seven interstitial cell types were identified, including cell types (percentage of the whole interstitial population) as follows: Leydig (44.6%), macrophage and dendritic (19.1%), lymphoid (6.2%), vascular endothelial (7.9%), smooth muscle (10.7%), and mesenchymal (11.5%) cells. The EdU experiment indicated that most cell types were dividing at relatively low levels (<9%) except for the mesenchymal cells (MCs, 17.1%). Further analysis of the transcriptome of MCs revealed 4 subgroups with distinct functions, including 1) glutathione metabolism and xenobiotic detoxification, 2) ROS response and AP-1 signaling, 3) extracellular matrix synthesis and binding, and 4) immune response and regulation. Stem LCs (SLCs) are primarily associated with subgroup 3, expressing ARG1 and GAP43. EDS treatment not only eliminated LCs but also increased subgroup 3 and decreased subgroups 1 and 2 of the mesenchymal population. Moreover, EDS treatment increased the division of immune cells by more than tenfold in one week. Conclusion Seven interstitial cell types were identified and quantified for rat testis. Many may play more diversified roles than previously realized. The elimination of LCs led to significant changes in MCs and immune cells, indicating the importance of LCs in maintaining testicular interstitial homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiexia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hu Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yun Hu
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhenni Li
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingfeng Xu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mengjie Qin
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xin Wen
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuyan Cao
- The Basic Medical Research Center of the Second School of Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoju Guan
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ping Duan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haolin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Congde Chen
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Strell C, Rodríguez-Tomàs E, Östman A. Functional and clinical roles of stromal PDGF receptors in tumor biology. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024:10.1007/s10555-024-10194-7. [PMID: 38980580 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10194-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
PDGF receptors play pivotal roles in both developmental and physiological processes through the regulation of mesenchymal cells involved in paracrine instructive interactions with epithelial or endothelial cells. Tumor biology studies, alongside analyses of patient tissue samples, provide strong indications that the PDGF signaling pathways are also critical in various types of human cancer. This review summarizes experimental findings and correlative studies, which have explored the biological mechanisms and clinical relevance of PDGFRs in mesenchymal cells of the tumor microenvironment. Collectively, these studies support the overall concept that the PDGF system is a critical regulator of tumor growth, metastasis, and drug efficacy, suggesting yet unexploited targeting opportunities. The inter-patient variability in stromal PDGFR expression, as being linked to prognosis and treatment responses, not only indicates the need for stratified approaches in upcoming therapeutic investigations but also implies the potential for the development of PDGFRs as biomarkers of clinical utility, interestingly also in settings outside PDGFR-directed treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Strell
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, Bergen University, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Arne Östman
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, Bergen University, Bergen, Norway.
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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IIDA M, ASANO A. Effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists on spermatogenesis-related gene expression in mouse testis and testis-derived cell lines. J Vet Med Sci 2024; 86:555-562. [PMID: 38556323 PMCID: PMC11144540 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.24-0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin released into the gastrointestinal tract after food ingestion, and stimulates insulin secretion from the beta cells of the pancreatic islets. Incretins have recently been reported to have extrapancreatic actions, and they are anticipated to have potential efficacy for conditions such as male infertility as well as diabetes. However, the effects of incretins on male reproductive function remain unclear. In this study, GLP-1 receptor expression and the effects of GLP-1 on spermatogenesis-associated genes were investigated using mouse testes and testis-derived cultured cell lines. Glp1r mRNA and GLP-1 protein were expressed in mouse testes at levels comparable to or greater than those in positive control adipose tissue, and the liver and intestine, and also in a Sertoli cell line (TM4) and a Leydig cell line (MA-10) as well as the GC-1 spg and GC-2 spd (ts) germ cell lines. TM4 cells treated with the GLP-1 receptor agonist exenatide showed transiently and significantly upregulated Kitl, Pdgfa, and Glp1r mRNA expression. Furthermore, at 1 hr post-exenatide administration to male mice, Kitl and Glp1r mRNA expression levels were significantly increased, and Pdgfa mRNA expression level also showed a tendency toward increase. TM4 cells were treated with various cell-activating agents, and bucladesine elicited significantly increased Glp1r mRNA expression. We suggest that GLP-1 provides acute stimulation of Sertoli cells in the mouse testis and has a stimulatory effect on the expression of spermatogenesis-related genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi IIDA
- Laboratory of Laboratory Animal Science, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
- Safety Assessment Department, Kumamoto Laboratories, Mediford Corporation, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi ASANO
- Laboratory of Laboratory Animal Science, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
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Mohammadi A, Bashiri Z, Rafiei S, Asgari H, Shabani R, Hosseini S, Koruji M. Testicular niche repair after gonadotoxic treatments: Current knowledge and future directions. Biol Cell 2024; 116:e2300123. [PMID: 38470182 DOI: 10.1111/boc.202300123] [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: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
The testicular niche, which includes the germ cells, somatic cells, and extracellular matrix, plays a crucial role in maintaining the proper functions of the testis. Gonadotoxic treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, have significantly improved the survival rates of cancer patients but have also been shown to have adverse effects on the testicular microenvironment. Therefore, repairing the testicular niche after gonadotoxic treatments is essential to restore its function. In recent years, several approaches, such as stem cell transplantation, gene therapy, growth factor therapy, and pharmacological interventions have been proposed as potential therapeutic strategies to repair the testicular niche. This comprehensive review aims to provide an overview of the current understanding of testis damage and repair mechanisms. We will cover a range of topics, including the mechanism of gonadotoxic action, repair mechanisms, and treatment approaches. Overall, this review highlights the importance of repairing the testicular niche after gonadotoxic treatments and identifies potential avenues for future research to improve the outcomes for cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Mohammadi
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Bashiri
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Omid Fertility & Infertility Clinic, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Sara Rafiei
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Asgari
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ronak Shabani
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - SeyedJamal Hosseini
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomaterials and Medical Biomaterials Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Elsabagh AA, Benkhadra M, Elmakaty I, Elsayed A, Elsayed B, Elmarasi M, Abutineh M, Qasem NM, Ali E, Yassin M. Male Fertility and Fatherhood in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: Current Understanding and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:791. [PMID: 38398181 PMCID: PMC10886940 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16040791] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), while traditionally a disease of the elderly, has recently risen in incidence among younger patients. Hence, fertility concerns have emerged considering the disease process and treatments, especially with the current scarce and conflicting recommendations. This review explores the impact of CML treatments including the first-line tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and other treatments on male fertility in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients. The aim of this review was to compile the available evidence on male fertility to ultimately tailor treatment plans for male CML patients for whom fertility and future chances for conception pose a concern. The data available on the conventional and newer TKIs to address fertility concerns were reviewed, particularly the potential long- and short-term effects. Also, the possible side effects on subsequent generations were a crucial focus point of this review to reach a more comprehensive CML management approach. We found and compared the evidence on TKIs approved to treat CML. We also reported the effects of hydroxyurea, interferon, and transplantation, which are considered second-line treatments. Our findings suggest that these drugs might have an undiscovered effect on fertility. More research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods is essential to solidify our understanding of these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Adel Elsabagh
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (I.E.); (B.E.); (M.E.)
| | - Maria Benkhadra
- National Center for Cancer Care & Research, Hamad General Hospital, Doha P.O. Box 3050, Qatar;
| | - Ibrahim Elmakaty
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (I.E.); (B.E.); (M.E.)
| | - Abdelrahman Elsayed
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (I.E.); (B.E.); (M.E.)
| | - Basant Elsayed
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (I.E.); (B.E.); (M.E.)
| | - Mohamed Elmarasi
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (I.E.); (B.E.); (M.E.)
| | - Mohammad Abutineh
- Hematology Section, Medical Oncology, National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR), Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha P.O. Box 3050, Qatar (N.M.Q.)
| | - Nabeel Mohammad Qasem
- Hematology Section, Medical Oncology, National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR), Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha P.O. Box 3050, Qatar (N.M.Q.)
| | - Elrazi Ali
- One Brooklyn Health, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11213, USA;
| | - Mohamed Yassin
- Hematology Section, Medical Oncology, National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR), Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha P.O. Box 3050, Qatar (N.M.Q.)
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Wu SX, Wang GW, Fang YG, Chen YW, Jin YY, Liu XT, Jia GX, Yang QE. Transcriptome analysis reveals dysregulated gene expression networks in Sertoli cells of cattle-yak hybrids. Theriogenology 2023; 203:33-42. [PMID: 36966583 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Cattle-yak, the hybrid offspring of yak and taurine cattle, exhibits male sterility with normal female fertility. Spermatogenesis is arrested in adult cattle-yak, and apoptosis is elevated in spermatogenic cells. Currently, the mechanisms underlying these defects remain elusive. Sertoli cells are the only somatic cells that directly interact with spermatogenic cells in the seminiferous tubules and play essential roles in spermatogenesis. The present study was designed to investigate gene expression signatures and potential roles of Sertoli cells in hybrid sterility in cattle-yak. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the 5 mC and 5hmC signals in Sertoli cells of cattle-yaks were significantly different from those of age-matched yaks (P < 0.05). Transcriptome profiling of isolated Sertoli cells identified 402 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between cattle-yaks and yaks. Notably, niche factor glial cell derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) was upregulated, and genes involved in retinoic acid (RA) biogenesis were changed in Sertoli cells of cattle-yak, suggesting possible impairments of spermatogonial fate decisions. Further studies showed that the numbers of proliferative gonocytes and undifferentiated spermatogonia in cattle-yak were significantly higher than those in yak (P < 0.01). Exogenous GDNF significantly promoted the proliferation of UCHL1-positive spermatogonia in yaks. Therefore, we concluded that altered GDNF expression and RA signaling impacted the fate decisions of undifferentiated spermatogonia in cattle-yak. Together, these findings highlight the role of Sertoli cells and their derived factors in hybrid sterility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Xin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Guo-Wen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - You-Gui Fang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810000, China; Agricultural Service Center of Maduo County, Qinghai, 813500, China
| | - Yong-Wei Chen
- Qinghai Headquarter of Animal Husbandry Extension Station, Xining, 810008, China
| | - Yan-Ying Jin
- Center for Animal Disease Control and Prevention of Gangcha County, Qinghai, 812399, China
| | - Xue-Tong Liu
- Shaanxi General Animal Husbandry Station, Xian, Shaanxi, 710010, China
| | - Gong-Xue Jia
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810000, China; Qinghai Key Laboratory of Animal Ecological Genomics, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810001, China
| | - Qi-En Yang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810000, China; Qinghai Key Laboratory of Animal Ecological Genomics, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810001, China.
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8
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Topaloğlu U, Sağsöz H, Akbalik ME. Distribution of cytoskeletal proteins in the cat testis during the pre-pubertal and post-pubertal periods. Theriogenology 2023; 197:1-9. [PMID: 36462330 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.031] [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: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cytoskeletal proteins not only define the shape of cells, but also have critical roles in their proliferation, migration and motility, as well as in the establishment and maintenance of tissue organization and integrity. Furthermore, these proteins influence the physiological processes of the male reproductive system and are found in the structure of some cells. This study aimed to determine differences between the pre- and post-pubertal periods for the localization and distribution of actin, desmin, vimentin and cytokeratin-18 in the testes, epididymides and ductus deferentes of Persian and Turkish Angora and Van cats, using immunohistochemistry. The study material was grouped as belonging to the pre-pubertal and post-pubertal periods. The tissue samples of both groups were subjected to routine histological processing and embedded in paraffin. Serial sections cut from the paraffin-embedded tissue blocks were immunohistochemically stained with the indirect streptavidin-biotin complex method. Immunohistochemical findings demonstrated that there was no difference between the pre- and post-pubertal periods for the staining intensity and distribution of the proteins actin, vimentin, desmin and cytokeratin-18 in Persian and Turkish Angora and Van cats. On the other hand, differences were detected between the pre- and post-pubertal periods for the cellular expression and localization of these proteins in the testes, epididymides and ductus deferentes. Thus, the study results suggest that, based on the expression of actin, desmin, vimentin and cytokeratin-18 in the testes, epididymides and ductus deferentes during both periods, these molecular factors could have a contributory role in the development of the male reproductive system and the regulation of its physiological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uğur Topaloğlu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Dicle University, Diyarbakır, 21280, Turkey.
| | - Hakan Sağsöz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Dicle University, Diyarbakır, 21280, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Erdem Akbalik
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Dicle University, Diyarbakır, 21280, Turkey
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Huang L, Zhang J, Zhang P, Huang X, Yang W, Liu R, Sun Q, Lu Y, Zhang M, Fu Q. Single-cell RNA sequencing uncovers dynamic roadmap and cell-cell communication during buffalo spermatogenesis. iScience 2022; 26:105733. [PMID: 36582818 PMCID: PMC9793287 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis carries the task of precise intergenerational transmission of genetic information from the paternal genome and involves complex developmental processes regulated by the testicular microenvironment. Studies performed mainly in mouse models have established the theoretical basis for spermatogenesis, yet the wide interspecies differences preclude direct translation of the findings, and farm animal studies are progressing slowly. More than 32,000 cells from prepubertal (3-month-old) and pubertal (24-month-old) buffalo testes were analyzed by using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), and dynamic gene expression roadmaps of germ and somatic cell development were generated. In addition to identifying the dynamic processes of sequential cell fate transitions, the global cell-cell communication essential to maintain regular spermatogenesis in the buffalo testicular microenvironment was uncovered. The findings provide the theoretical basis for establishing buffalo germline stem cells in vitro or culturing organoids and facilitating the expansion of superior livestock breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangfeng Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Junjun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Institute of Medical and Health, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, China
| | - Xingchen Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Weihan Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Runfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Qinqiang Sun
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Yangqing Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China,Corresponding author
| | - Ming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China,Corresponding author
| | - Qiang Fu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China,Corresponding author
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10
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Abe SI. Behavior and Functional Roles of CD34 + Mesenchymal Cells in Mammalian Testes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:9585. [PMID: 36076981 PMCID: PMC9455925 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian testes consist of seminiferous tubules within which Sertoli cells line up at the periphery and nurse germ cells, and of interstitia that harbor various cells such as peritubular myoid cells (PMCs), Leydig cells (LCs), vascular endothelial cells, immune cells such as macrophages, and mesenchymal (stromal) cells. Morphological studies have recently reported the presence of telocytes with telopodes in the interstitium of adult mouse, rat, and human testes. CD34+PDGFRα+ telocytes with long and moniliform telopodes form reticular networks with various cell types such as LCs, PMCs, and vessels, indicating their potential functions in cell-cell communications and tissue homeostasis. Functional studies have recently been performed on testicular interstitial cells and CD34+ cells, using 3D re-aggregate cultures of dissociated testicular cells, and cell cultures. Direct observation of CD34+ cells and adult LCs (ALCs) revealed that CD34+ cells extend thin cytoplasmic processes (telopodes), move toward the LC-CD34+ cell-re-aggregates, and finally enter into the re-aggregates, indicating the chemotactic behavior of CD34+ telocytes toward ALCs. In mammalian testes, important roles of mesenchymal interstitial cells as stem/progenitors in the differentiation and regeneration of LCs have been reported. Here, reports on testicular telocytes so far obtained are reviewed, and future perspectives on the studies of testicular telocytes are noted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin-Ichi Abe
- Faculty of Health Science, Kumamoto Health Science University, Kumamoto 861-5598, Japan
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11
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Abe K, Kameyama H, Abe SI. CD34 is Expressed in Endothelial Cells in Embryonic Testes and is Additionally Expressed in Non-Endothelial Cells in Postnatal Mouse Testes. Zoolog Sci 2022; 39:468-476. [DOI: 10.2108/zs220026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuko Abe
- Faculty of Health Science, Kumamoto Health Science University, 325 Izumi-machi, Kita-ku, Kumamoto 861-5598, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kameyama
- Faculty of Health Science, Kumamoto Health Science University, 325 Izumi-machi, Kita-ku, Kumamoto 861-5598, Japan
| | - Shin-ichi Abe
- Faculty of Health Science, Kumamoto Health Science University, 325 Izumi-machi, Kita-ku, Kumamoto 861-5598, Japan
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12
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Chen S, An G, Wang H, Wu X, Ping P, Hu L, Chen Y, Fan J, Cheng CY, Sun F. Human obstructive (postvasectomy) and nonobstructive azoospermia - Insights from scRNA-Seq and transcriptome analysis. Genes Dis 2022; 9:766-776. [PMID: 35782978 PMCID: PMC9243341 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2020.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
A substantial number of male infertility is caused by azoospermia. However, the underlying etiology and the molecular basis remain largely unknown. Through single-cell (sc)RNA sequencing, we had analyzed testis biopsy samples from two patients with obstructive azoospermia (OA) and nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). We found only somatic cells in the NOA samples and explored the transcriptional changes in Sertoli cells in response to a loss of interactions with germ cells. Moreover, we observed a germ cell population discrepancy between an OA (postvasectomy) patient and a healthy individual. We confirmed this observation in a secondary study with two datasets at GSM3526588 and GSE124263 for detailed analysis wherein the regulatory mechanisms at the transcriptional level were identified. These findings thus provide valuable information on human spermatogenesis, and we also identified insightful information for further research on reproduction-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shitao Chen
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200030, PR China
| | - Geng An
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510150, PR China
| | - Hanshu Wang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200030, PR China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, PR China
| | - Ping Ping
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200120, PR China
| | - Longfei Hu
- Singleron Biotechnologies Ltd, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210000, PR China
| | - Yunmei Chen
- Singleron Biotechnologies Ltd, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210000, PR China
| | - Jue Fan
- Singleron Biotechnologies Ltd, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210000, PR China
| | - C. Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Fei Sun
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200030, PR China
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, PR China
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13
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Malolina EA, Galiakberova AA, Dashinimaev EB, Kulibin AY. ESTABLISHMENT OF A PURE CULTURE OF IMMATURE SERTOLI CELLS BY PDGFRA STAINING AND CELL SORTING. Mol Reprod Dev 2022; 89:243-255. [PMID: 35478364 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23574] [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: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells are key somatic cells in the testis that form seminiferous tubules and support spermatogenesis. The isolation of pure Sertoli cells is important for their study. However, it is a difficult effort because of the close association of Sertoli cells with peritubular myoid cells surrounding seminiferous tubules. Here we propose a novel approach to the establishment of a pure Sertoli cell culture from immature mouse testes. It is based on the staining of testicular cells for platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRA) followed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting and culturing of a PDGFRA-negative cell population. Cells positive for a Sertoli cell marker WT1 accounted for more than 96% of cells in cultures from 6 and 12 dpp mice. The numbers of peritubular myoid cells identified by ACTA2 staining did not exceed 4%. Cells in the cultures were also positive for Sertoli cell proteins SOX9 and DMRT1. Amh and Hsd17b3 expression decreased and Ar and Gata1 expression increased in 12 dpp cultures compared to 6 dpp cultures, which suggests that cultured Sertoli cells at least partially retained their differentiation status. This method can be employed in various applications including the analysis of differential gene expression and functional studies. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina A Malolina
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334, Moscow, Russia
| | - Adelya A Galiakberova
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Erdem B Dashinimaev
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334, Moscow, Russia.,Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Andrey Yu Kulibin
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334, Moscow, Russia
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14
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Guan X, Chen P, Ji M, Wen X, Chen D, Zhao X, Huang F, Wang J, Shao J, Xie J, Zhao X, Chen F, Tian J, Lin H, Zirkin BR, Duan P, Su Z, Chen H. Identification of Rat Testicular Leydig Precursor Cells by Single-Cell-RNA-Sequence Analysis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:805249. [PMID: 35242757 PMCID: PMC8887666 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.805249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem Leydig cells (SLCs) play a critical role in the development and maintenance of the adult Leydig cell (ALC) population. SLCs also are present in the adult testis. Their identification, characteristics, and regulation in the adult testis remain uncertain. Using single-cell RNA-seq, we found that the mesenchymal stromal population may be involved in ALC regeneration. Upon ALC elimination, a fraction of stromal cells begins to proliferate while a different fraction begins to differentiate to ALCs. Transcriptomic analysis identified five stromal clusters that can be classified into two major groups representing proliferation and differentiation populations. The proliferating group represents stem cells expressing high levels of CD90, Nes, Lum, Fn and Gap43. The differentiating group represents a progenitor stage that is ready to form ALCs, and specifically expresses Vtn, Rasl11a, Id1 and Egr2. The observation that the actively dividing cells after ALC loss were not those that formed ALCs suggests that stem cell proliferation and differentiation are regulated separately, and that the maintenance of the stromal stem cell pool occurs at the population level. The study also identified specific markers for the major interstitial cell groups and potential paracrine factors involved in the regulation of SLCs. Our data suggest a new theory about SLC identity, proliferation, differentiation, and regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoju Guan
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Panpan Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Minpeng Ji
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xin Wen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xingyi Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Fu Huang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jiexia Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Shao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jiajia Xie
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xingxing Zhao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Fenfen Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jing Tian
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Han Lin
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Barry R Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ping Duan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhijian Su
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haolin Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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15
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Savard C, Gawhary S, Boyer A, Chorfi Y. Assessment of Zearalenone-Induced Cell Survival and of Global Gene Regulation in Mouse TM4 Sertoli Cells. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14020098. [PMID: 35202126 PMCID: PMC8874968 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14020098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Zearalenone (ZEA) is a non-steroidal xenoestrogen mycotoxin produced by many Fusarium fungal species, which are common contaminants of cereal crops destined for worldwide human and animal consumption. ZEA has been reported in various male reproduction dysfonctions, including decreased fertility potential. In this report, the direct effect of ZEA on the immature Sertoli TM4 cell line was evaluated. The results show that high concentrations of ZEA increase reactive oxygen species via the activation of MAPK signaling. Transcriptome analysis was performed on the TM4 cell line treated with ZEA, and genes involved in sex differentiation (Fgfr2, Igf1, Notch1, Sox9) and extracellular matrix (ECM) formation (Ctgf, Fam20a, Fbn1, Mmp9, Postn, Sparcl1, Spp1) were identified at the center of the functional protein association network, suggesting that ZEA could be detrimental to the early steps of Sertoli cell differentiation.
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16
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Muresanu C, Somasundaram SG, Vissarionov SV, Gavryushova LV, Nikolenko VN, Mikhaleva LM, Kirkland CE, Aliev G. Hypothetical Role of Growth Factors to Reduce Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Significantly through Trained Biological Transformations. Curr Pharm Des 2021; 27:2221-2230. [PMID: 33076800 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666201019104201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the evidence of little or no therapeutic benefit of injection-based growth factor therapies, it has been proposed that a naturally triggered uninterrupted blood circulation of the growth factors would be superior. OBJECTIVE We seek to stimulate discussions and more research about the possibility of using the already available growth factors found in the prostate gland and endometrium by starting novel educable physiology, known as biological transformations controlled by the mind. METHODS We summarized the stretch-gated ion channel mechanism of the cell membrane and offer several practical methods that can be applied by anyone, in order to stimulate and enhance the blood circulation of the growth factors from the seminal fluid to sites throughout the body. This study describes, in detail, the practical application of our earlier published studies about biological transformations. RESULTS A previously reported single-patient case study has been extended, adding more from his personal experiences to continually improve this novel physiological training and extending the ideas from our earlier findings in detail. CONCLUSION The biological transformation findings demonstrate the need for additional research to establish the benefits of these natural therapies to repair and rejuvenate tissues affected by various chronic diseases or aging processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian Muresanu
- Research Center for Applied Biotechnology in Diagnosis and Molecular Therapies (BIODIATECH), Str. Trifoiului nr. 12 G, 400478, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Siva G Somasundaram
- Department of Biological Sciences, Salem University, Salem, WV 26426, United States
| | - Sergey V Vissarionov
- Department of Spinal Pathology and Neurosurgery, Turner Scientific and Research Institute for Children's Orthopedics, Street Parkovskya 64-68, Pushkin, Saint-Petersburg, 196603, Russian Federation
| | - Liliya V Gavryushova
- Saratov State Medical University named after V.I. Razumovsky, 410012, Saratov, Russian Federation
| | - Vladimir N Nikolenko
- I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), 8/2 Trubetskaya Str., Moscow, 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Liudmila M Mikhaleva
- Federal State Budgetary Institution, Research Institute of Human Morphology, 3, Tsyurupy Str., Moscow, 117418, Russian Federation
| | - Cecil E Kirkland
- Department of Biological Sciences, Salem University, Salem, WV 26426, United States
| | - Gjumrakch Aliev
- I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), 8/2 Trubetskaya Str., Moscow, 119991, Russian Federation
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17
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Lineage Contribution of PDGFR α-Expressing Cells in the Developing Mouse Eye. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:4982227. [PMID: 34285913 PMCID: PMC8275403 DOI: 10.1155/2021/4982227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PDGFRα signaling is critically important in ocular development. Previous data on PDGFRα lacks an expression map with high spatial and temporal resolution and lineage information. In this study, we aim to present a detailed PDGFRα expression and lineage map from early embryogenesis to adulthood. PDGFRα-CreER; mT/mG reporter mice were analyzed. mEGFP-positive cells contributed to multiple ocular lineages in a spatiotemporally regulated manner. A dynamic PDGFRα expression was identified in corneal stromal cells, lens epithelial cells, lens fiber cells, and retinal astrocytes during the entire period of eye development, while PDGFRα expression in retinal astrocytes from E17.5 onwards and in Müller glial cells was identified within two weeks after birth. By revealing detailed characterization of gene expression and function, we present a comprehensive map of PDGFRα-expressing cells in the eye for a better understanding of PDGFRα signaling's role during eye development.
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18
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Del Vento F, Poels J, Vermeulen M, Ucakar B, Giudice MG, Kanbar M, des Rieux A, Wyns C. Accelerated and Improved Vascular Maturity after Transplantation of Testicular Tissue in Hydrogels Supplemented with VEGF- and PDGF-Loaded Nanoparticles. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5779. [PMID: 34071329 PMCID: PMC8198558 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Avascular transplantation of frozen-thawed testicular tissue fragments represents a potential future technique for fertility restoration in boys with cancer. A significant loss of spermatogonia was observed in xeno-transplants of human tissue most likely due to the hypoxic period before revascularization. To reduce the effect of hypoxia-reoxygenation injuries, several options have already been explored, like encapsulation in alginate hydrogel and supplementation with nanoparticles delivering a necrosis inhibitor (NECINH) or VEGF. While these approaches improved short-term (5 days) vascular surfaces in grafts, neovessels were not maintained up to 21 days; i.e., the time needed for achieving vessel stabilization. To better support tissue grafts, nanoparticles loaded with VEGF, PDGF and NECINH were developed. Testicular tissue fragments from 4-5-week-old mice were encapsulated in calcium-alginate hydrogels, either non-supplemented (control) or supplemented with drug-loaded nanoparticles (VEGF-nanoparticles; VEGF-nanoparticles + PDGF-nanoparticles; NECINH-nanoparticles; VEGF-nanoparticles + NECINH-nanoparticles; and VEGF-nanoparticles + PDGF-nanoparticles + NECINH-nanoparticles) before auto-transplantation. Grafts were recovered after 5 or 21 days for analyses of tissue integrity (hematoxylin-eosin staining), spermatogonial survival (immuno-histo-chemistry for promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger) and vascularization (immuno-histo-chemistry for α-smooth muscle actin and CD-31). Our results showed that a combination of VEGF and PDGF nanoparticles increased vascular maturity and induced a faster maturation of vascular structures in grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Del Vento
- Gynecology-Andrology Unit, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Medical School, Catholic University of Louvain, UCLouvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.V.); (J.P.); (M.V.); (M.G.G.); (M.K.)
| | - Jonathan Poels
- Gynecology-Andrology Unit, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Medical School, Catholic University of Louvain, UCLouvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.V.); (J.P.); (M.V.); (M.G.G.); (M.K.)
| | - Maxime Vermeulen
- Gynecology-Andrology Unit, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Medical School, Catholic University of Louvain, UCLouvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.V.); (J.P.); (M.V.); (M.G.G.); (M.K.)
| | - Bernard Ucakar
- Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials Unit, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Catholic University of Louvain, UCLouvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (B.U.); (A.d.R.)
| | - Maria Grazia Giudice
- Gynecology-Andrology Unit, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Medical School, Catholic University of Louvain, UCLouvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.V.); (J.P.); (M.V.); (M.G.G.); (M.K.)
- Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Saint-Luc University Hospital, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marc Kanbar
- Gynecology-Andrology Unit, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Medical School, Catholic University of Louvain, UCLouvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.V.); (J.P.); (M.V.); (M.G.G.); (M.K.)
| | - Anne des Rieux
- Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials Unit, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Catholic University of Louvain, UCLouvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (B.U.); (A.d.R.)
| | - Christine Wyns
- Gynecology-Andrology Unit, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Medical School, Catholic University of Louvain, UCLouvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.V.); (J.P.); (M.V.); (M.G.G.); (M.K.)
- Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Saint-Luc University Hospital, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
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19
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Zhao X, Wen X, Ji M, Guan X, Chen P, Hao X, Chen F, Hu Y, Duan P, Ge RS, Chen H. Differentiation of seminiferous tubule-associated stem cells into leydig cell and myoid cell lineages. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 525:111179. [PMID: 33515640 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Peritubular stem Leydig cells (SLCs) have been identified from rat testicular seminiferous tubules. However, no stem cells for peritubular myoid cells have been reported in the adult testis so far. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that the peritubular SLCs are multipotent and able to form either Leydig or myoid cells. Using cultured tubules, we show that in the presence of PDGFAA and luteinizing hormone, SLCs became testosterone-producing Leydig cells, while in the presence of PDGFBB and TGFB, the cells formed α-smooth muscle actin-expressing myoid cells. This multipotency was also confirmed by culture of isolated CD90+ SLCs. These results suggest that these stem cells outside the myoid layer are multipotent and give rise to either Leydig or myoid cells, depending on the inducing factors. These cells may serve as a common precursor population for maintaining homeostasis of both Leydig and myoid cell populations in the adult testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxing Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xin Wen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Minpeng Ji
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xiaoju Guan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Panpan Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xinrui Hao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Fenfen Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Yue Hu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Ping Duan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
| | - Haolin Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
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20
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Anand-Ivell R, Tremellen K, Soyama H, Enki D, Ivell R. Male seminal parameters are not associated with Leydig cell functional capacity in men. Andrology 2021; 9:1126-1136. [PMID: 33715296 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) is a constitutive, secreted peptide produced in the male uniquely by the Leydig cells of the testes. It is a biomarker for Leydig cell functional capacity, which is a measure of the numbers and differentiation status of these steroidogenic cells and lacks the biological and technical variance of the steroid testosterone. This retrospective study was carried out to examine the relationship between seminal parameters and the Leydig cell compartment, and secondarily to assess other factors responsible for determining Leydig cell functional capacity. METHODS INSL3 was assessed together with seminal, anthropometric, and hormonal parameters in a Swedish cohort of 18-year-old men, representing the average population, and in a smaller, more heterogeneous cohort of men visiting an Australian infertility clinic. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Average INSL3 concentration at 18 years is greater than that reported at younger or older ages and indicated a large 10-fold variation. In neither cohort was there a relationship between INSL3 concentration and any semen parameter. For the larger, more uniform Swedish cohort of young men, there was a significant negative relationship between INSL3 and BMI, supporting the idea that adult Leydig cell functional capacity may be established during puberty. In both cohorts, there was a significant relationship between INSL3 and FSH, but not LH concentration. No relationship was found between INSL3 and androgen receptor trinucleotide repeat polymorphisms, reinforcing the notion that Leydig cell functional capacity is unlikely to be determined by androgen influence alone. Nor did INSL3 correlate with the T/LH ratio, an alternative measure of Leydig cell functional capacity, supporting the view that these are independent measures of Leydig cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kelton Tremellen
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,Repromed, Dulwich, SA, Australia
| | - Hiroaki Soyama
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Defense Medical College Hospital, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Doyo Enki
- School of Medicine, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Richard Ivell
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK.,School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
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21
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Neri A, Banci M, Pietropolli A, Gloria-Bottini F, Magrini A. Smoking, ACP<sub>1</sub> and Infertility in Subjects with Varicocele. Health (London) 2019. [DOI: 10.4236/health.2019.1110102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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22
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Yang W, Yan H, Wang K, Cui Y, Zhou T, Xu H, Zhu H, Liu J, Lan X, Qu L, Pan C, Zhang E. Goat PDGFRB: unique mRNA expression profile in gonad and significant association between genetic variation and litter size. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2019; 6:180805. [PMID: 30800344 PMCID: PMC6366220 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.180805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
β-Type platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFRB) is a typical tyrosine kinase, as a candidate gene associated with reproduction. Its main roles include regulation of gonocytes (migration and proliferation) and of the cell cycle. The objectives of this study were to identify mRNA expression of the goat PDGFRB gene, as well as insertion/deletion (indel) variants and their association with litter size in 1122 healthy Shaanbei white cashmere goats. The results revealed that PDGFRB was widely expressed in all tested tissues, and the expression levels in testes at different developmental stages indicated a potential association with the mitosis-to-meiosis transition. Furthermore, the expression of PDGFRB was relatively higher in the ovary tissue of mothers of two lambs compared with mothers of single lamb. These results implied that PDGFRB was related to goat fertility. Meanwhile, two intronic indels, 5 bp (n = 501) and 10 bp (n = 1122), were identified. Statistical analysis revealed that only the 10 bp indel was associated with first-born litter size (n = 1122, p = 6.030 × 10-5), and that individuals of the genotype insertion/deletion had larger litter sizes than those of genotype insertion/insertion. Overall, these results indicated that the 10 bp indel of PDGFRB could be used in marker-assisted selection during goat genetic breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Hailong Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
- Shaanxi Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Cashmere Goats, Yulin University, Yulin 719000, People's Republic of China
- Life Science Research Center, Yulin University, Yulin 719000, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Cui
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Tong Zhou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Haijing Zhu
- Shaanxi Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Cashmere Goats, Yulin University, Yulin 719000, People's Republic of China
- Life Science Research Center, Yulin University, Yulin 719000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinwang Liu
- Shaanxi Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Cashmere Goats, Yulin University, Yulin 719000, People's Republic of China
- Life Science Research Center, Yulin University, Yulin 719000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianyong Lan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Qu
- Shaanxi Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Cashmere Goats, Yulin University, Yulin 719000, People's Republic of China
- Life Science Research Center, Yulin University, Yulin 719000, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuanying Pan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Enping Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
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23
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Wang Y, Huang S, Wang Z, Chen F, Chen P, Zhao X, Lin H, Ge R, Zirkin B, Chen H. Long-term maintenance of luteinizing hormone-responsive testosterone formation by primary rat Leydig cells in vitro. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 476:48-56. [PMID: 29702242 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The inability of cultured primary Leydig cells to maintain luteinizing hormone (LH)-responsive testosterone formation in vitro for more than 3-5 days has presented a major challenge in testing trophic effects of regulatory factors or environmental toxicants. Our primary objective was to establish culture conditions sufficient to maintain LH-responsive testosterone formation by Leydig cells for at least a month. When isolated rat adult Leydig cells were cultured in DMEM/F12 and M199 culture medium containing insulin (10μg/ml), PDGFAA (10 ng/ml), lipoprotein (0.25 mg/ml), horse serum (1%) and a submaximal concentration of LH (0.2 ng/ml), the cells retained the ability to produce testosterone in vitro for at least 4 weeks. By using the longer-term culture conditions of this system, we were able to detect suppressive effects on testosterone production by low levels of the toxicant MEHP (mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate), an active metabolite of the plasticizer DEHP, that were not detected by short-term culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Shengsong Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang 154000, China
| | - Fenfen Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Panpan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xingxing Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Han Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Renshan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Barry Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Haolin Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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24
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Rezende FM, Dietsch GO, Peñagaricano F. Genetic dissection of bull fertility in US Jersey dairy cattle. Anim Genet 2018; 49:393-402. [PMID: 30109710 PMCID: PMC6175157 DOI: 10.1111/age.12710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The service sire has been recognized as an important factor affecting herd fertility in dairy cattle. Recent studies suggest that genetic factors explain part of the difference in fertility among Holstein sires. The main objective of this study was to dissect the genetic architecture of sire fertility in US Jersey cattle. The dataset included 1.5 K Jersey bulls with sire conception rate (SCR) records and 96 K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers spanning the whole genome. The analysis included whole‐genome scans for both additive and non‐additive effects and subsequent functional enrichment analyses using KEGG Pathway, Gene Ontology (GO) and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) databases. Ten genomic regions located on eight different chromosomes explained more than 0.5% of the additive genetic variance for SCR. These regions harbor genes, such as PKDREJ,EPB41L2,PDGFD,STX2,SLC25A20 and IP6K1, that are directly implicated in testis development and spermatogenesis, sperm motility and the acrosome reaction. In addition, the genomic scan for non‐additive effects identified two regions on BTA11 and BTA25 with marked recessive effects. These regions harbor three genes—FER1L5,CNNM4 and DNAH3—with known roles in sperm biology. Moreover, the gene‐set analysis revealed terms associated with calcium regulation and signaling, membrane fusion, sperm cell energy metabolism, GTPase activity and MAPK signaling. These gene sets are directly implicated in sperm physiology and male fertility. Overall, this integrative genomic study unravels genetic variants and pathways affecting Jersey bull fertility. These findings may contribute to the development of novel genomic strategies for improving sire fertility in Jersey cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- F M Rezende
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.,Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, 38400-902, Brazil
| | - G O Dietsch
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - F Peñagaricano
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.,University of Florida Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
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25
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Wang Y, Li X, Ge F, Yuan K, Su Z, Wang G, Lian Q, Ge RS. Platelet-derived growth factor BB stimulates differentiation of rat immature Leydig cells. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 60:29-43. [PMID: 29259043 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is one family of growth factors that regulate cell growth and differentiation. Rat Leydig cells express PDGF-β receptor (PDGFRB) during pubertal development. However, the mechanism of PDGF in the regulation of Leydig cell development is unclear. In the present study, rat immature Leydig cells were isolated from the testes of 35-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats and treated with 1 and 10 ng/mL of PDGF-BB. After 24 h of treatment, these cells were harvested for genomics profiling and the medium steroids were measured. 1 and 10 ng/mL PDGF-BB significantly increased androgen production by rat immature Leydig cells. Genomics profiling analysis showed that the expression levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (Star) were increased by 2-fold. Further analysis showed that Fos expression level was increased 2- and 5-fold by 1 and 10 ng/mL PDGF-BB, respectively. In conclusion, PDGF-BB stimulated the differentiation of rat immature Leydig cells via regulating Star.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyan Wang
- Department of AnesthesiologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoheng Li
- Department of AnesthesiologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Ge
- Department of AnesthesiologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaiming Yuan
- Department of AnesthesiologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhijian Su
- Institutes of Life and Health EngineeringJinan University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Guimin Wang
- Department of AnesthesiologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingquan Lian
- Department of AnesthesiologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of AnesthesiologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
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26
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Soffientini U, Rebourcet D, Abel MH, Lee S, Hamilton G, Fowler PA, Smith LB, O'Shaughnessy PJ. Identification of Sertoli cell-specific transcripts in the mouse testis and the role of FSH and androgen in the control of Sertoli cell activity. BMC Genomics 2017; 18:972. [PMID: 29246116 PMCID: PMC5731206 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-017-4357-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Sertoli cells act to induce testis differentiation and subsequent development in fetal and post-natal life which makes them key to an understanding of testis biology. As a major step towards characterisation of factors involved in Sertoli cell function we have identified Sertoli cell-specific transcripts in the mouse testis and have used the data to identify Sertoli cell-specific transcripts altered in mice lacking follicle-stimulating hormone receptors (FSHRKO) and/or androgen receptors (AR) in the Sertoli cells (SCARKO). Results Adult iDTR mice were injected with busulfan to ablate the germ cells and 50 days later they were treated with diphtheria toxin (DTX) to ablate the Sertoli cells. RNAseq carried out on testes from control, busulfan-treated and busulfan + DTX-treated mice identified 701 Sertoli-specific transcripts and 4302 germ cell-specific transcripts. This data was mapped against results from microarrays using testicular mRNA from 20 day-old FSHRKO, SCARKO and FSHRKO.SCARKO mice. Results show that of the 534 Sertoli cell-specific transcripts present on the gene chips, 85% were altered in the FSHRKO mice and 94% in the SCARKO mice (mostly reduced in both cases). In the FSHRKO.SCARKO mice additive or synergistic effects were seen for most transcripts. Age-dependent studies on a selected number of Sertoli cell-specific transcripts, showed that the marked effects in the FSHRKO at 20 days had largely disappeared by adulthood although synergistic effects of FSHR and AR knockout were seen. Conclusions These studies have identified the Sertoli cell-specific transcriptome in the mouse testis and have shown that most genes in the transcriptome are FSH- and androgen-dependent at puberty although the importance of FSH diminishes towards adulthood. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-017-4357-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Soffientini
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health & Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, G61 1QH, Glasgow, UK
| | - D Rebourcet
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health & Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, G61 1QH, Glasgow, UK.,MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - M H Abel
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Le Gros Clarke Building, Oxford, OX1 3QX, UK
| | - S Lee
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Le Gros Clarke Building, Oxford, OX1 3QX, UK
| | - G Hamilton
- Glasgow Polyomics, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, G61 1QH, Glasgow, UK
| | - P A Fowler
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - L B Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK.,School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, 2308, Australia
| | - P J O'Shaughnessy
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health & Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, G61 1QH, Glasgow, UK.
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27
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Picut CA, Ziejewski MK, Stanislaus D. Comparative Aspects of Pre- and Postnatal Development of the Male Reproductive System. Birth Defects Res 2017; 110:190-227. [PMID: 29063715 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
This review describes pre- and postnatal development of the male reproductive system in humans and laboratory animals, and highlights species differences in the timing and control of hormonal and morphologic events. Major differences are that the fetal testis is dependent on gonadotropins in humans, but is independent of such in rats; humans have an extended postnatal quiescent period, whereas rats exhibit no quiescence; and events such as secretion by the prostate and seminal vesicles, testicular descent, and the appearance of spermatogonia are all prenatal events in humans, but are postnatal events in rats. Major differences in the timing of the developmental sequence between rats and humans include: gonocyte transformation period (rat: postnatal day 0-9; human: includes gestational week 22 to 9 months of age); masculinization programming window (rat: gestational day 15.5-17.5; human: gestational week 9-14); and mini-puberty (rat: 0-6 hr after birth; human: 3-6 months of age). Endocrine disruptors can cause unique lesions in the prenatal and early postnatal testis; therefore, it is important to consider the differences in the timing of the developmental sequence when designing preclinical studies as identification of windows of sensitivity for endocrine disruption or toxicants will aid in interpretation of results and provide clues to a mode of action. Birth Defects Research 110:190-227, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Picut
- Charles River Laboratories, Pathology Associates, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Mary K Ziejewski
- GlaxoSmithKline Research & Development, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania
| | - D Stanislaus
- GlaxoSmithKline Research & Development, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania
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28
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Heidargholizadeh S, Aydos SE, Yukselten Y, Ozkavukcu S, Sunguroglu A, Aydos K. A differential cytokine expression profile before and after rFSH treatment in Sertoli cell cultures of men with nonobstructive azoospermia. Andrologia 2016; 49. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- S. Heidargholizadeh
- Department of Medical Biology; School of Medicine; Ankara University; Ankara Turkey
| | - S. E. Aydos
- Department of Medical Biology; School of Medicine; Ankara University; Ankara Turkey
| | - Y. Yukselten
- Department of Medical Biology; School of Medicine; Ankara University; Ankara Turkey
| | - S. Ozkavukcu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; School of Medicine; Assisted Reproduction Center; Ankara University; Ankara Turkey
| | - A. Sunguroglu
- Department of Medical Biology; School of Medicine; Ankara University; Ankara Turkey
| | - K. Aydos
- Department of Urology; School of Medicine; Ankara University; Ankara Turkey
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29
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Hong J, Chen F, Wang X, Bai Y, Zhou R, Li Y, Chen L. Exposure of preimplantation embryos to low-dose bisphenol A impairs testes development and suppresses histone acetylation of StAR promoter to reduce production of testosterone in mice. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 427:101-11. [PMID: 26975478 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Revised: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that bisphenol A (BPA) is a potential endocrine disruptor and testicular toxicant. The present study focused on exploring the impact of exposure to low dose of BPA on male reproductive development during the early embryo stage and the underlying mechanisms. BPA (20 μg/kg/day) was orally administered to female mice on days 1-5 of gestation. The male offspring were euthanized at PND10, 20, 24, 35 or PND50. We found that the mice exposed to BPA before implantation (BPA-mice) displayed retardation of testicular development with reduction of testosterone level. The diameter and epithelium height of seminiferous tubules were reduced in BPA-mice at PND35. The numbers of spermatogenic cells at different stages were significantly reduced in BPA-mice at PND50. BPA-mice showed a persistent reduction in serum and testicular testosterone levels starting from PND24, whereas GnRH mRNA was significantly increased at PND35 and PND50. The expressions of testicular StAR and P450scc in BPA-mice also decreased relative to those of the controls at PND35 and PND50. Further analysis found that the levels of histone H3 and H3K14 acetylation (Ac-H3 and H3K14ac) in the promoter of StAR were decreased relative to those of control mice, whereas the level of Ac-H3 in the promoter of P450scc was not significantly different between the groups. These results provide evidence that exposure to BPA in preimplantation embryo retards the development of testes by reducing histone acetylation of the StAR promoter to disrupt the testicular testosterone synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Hong
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China; Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Yinyang Bai
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China
| | - Rong Zhou
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Yingchun Li
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China.
| | - Ling Chen
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China; Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China.
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30
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Regulation of seminiferous tubule-associated stem Leydig cells in adult rat testes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:2666-71. [PMID: 26929346 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1519395113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular Leydig cells are the primary source of testosterone in males. Adult Leydig cells have been shown to arise from stem cells present in the neonatal testis. Once established, adult Leydig cells turn over only slowly during adult life, but when these cells are eliminated experimentally from the adult testis, new Leydig cells rapidly reappear. As in the neonatal testis, stem cells in the adult testis are presumed to be the source of the new Leydig cells. As yet, the mechanisms involved in regulating the proliferation and differentiation of these stem cells remain unknown. We developed a unique in vitro system of cultured seminiferous tubules to assess the ability of factors from the seminiferous tubules to regulate the proliferation of the tubule-associated stem cells, and their subsequent entry into the Leydig cell lineage. The proliferation of the stem Leydig cells was stimulated by paracrine factors including Desert hedgehog (DHH), basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF2), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and activin. Suppression of proliferation occurred with transforming growth factor β (TGF-β). The differentiation of the stem cells was regulated positively by DHH, lithium- induced signaling, and activin, and negatively by TGF-β, PDGFBB, and FGF2. DHH functioned as a commitment factor, inducing the transition of stem cells to the progenitor stage and thus into the Leydig cell lineage. Additionally, CD90 (Thy1) was found to be a unique stem cell surface marker that was used to obtain purified stem cells by flow cytometry.
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31
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Nygaard MB, Almstrup K, Lindbæk L, Christensen ST, Svingen T. Cell context-specific expression of primary cilia in the human testis and ciliary coordination of Hedgehog signalling in mouse Leydig cells. Sci Rep 2015; 5:10364. [PMID: 25992706 PMCID: PMC4438617 DOI: 10.1038/srep10364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary cilia are sensory organelles that coordinate numerous cellular signalling pathways during development and adulthood. Defects in ciliary assembly or function lead to a series of developmental disorders and diseases commonly referred to as ciliopathies. Still, little is known about the formation and function of primary cilia in the mammalian testis. Here, we characterized primary cilia in adult human testis and report a constitutive expression of cilia in peritubular myoid cells and a dynamic expression of cilia in differentiating Leydig cells. Primary cilia are generally absent from cells of mature seminiferous epithelium, but present in Sertoli cell-only tubules in Klinefelter syndrome testis. Peritubular cells in atrophic testis produce overly long cilia. Furthermore cultures of growth-arrested immature mouse Leydig cells express primary cilia that are enriched in components of Hedgehog signalling, including Smoothened, Patched-1, and GLI2, which are involved in regulating Leydig cell differentiation. Stimulation of Hedgehog signalling increases the localization of Smoothened to the cilium, which is followed by transactivation of the Hedgehog target genes, Gli1 and Ptch1. Our findings provide new information on the spatiotemporal formation of primary cilia in the testis and show that primary cilia in immature Leydig cells mediate Hedgehog signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Berg Nygaard
- 1] University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital (Rigshospitalet), Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark [2] Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital (Rigshospitalet), Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Louise Lindbæk
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark
| | | | - Terje Svingen
- 1] University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital (Rigshospitalet), Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark [2] Department of Toxicology and Risk Assessment, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Søborg DK-2860, Denmark
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Zimmermann C, Stévant I, Borel C, Conne B, Pitetti JL, Calvel P, Kaessmann H, Jégou B, Chalmel F, Nef S. Research resource: the dynamic transcriptional profile of sertoli cells during the progression of spermatogenesis. Mol Endocrinol 2015; 29:627-42. [PMID: 25710594 DOI: 10.1210/me.2014-1356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs), the only somatic cells within seminiferous tubules, associate intimately with developing germ cells. They not only provide physical and nutritional support but also secrete factors essential to the complex developmental processes of germ cell proliferation and differentiation. The SC transcriptome must therefore adapt rapidly during the different stages of spermatogenesis. We report comprehensive genome-wide expression profiles of pure populations of SCs isolated at 5 distinct stages of the first wave of mouse spermatogenesis, using RNA sequencing technology. We were able to reconstruct about 13 901 high-confidence, nonredundant coding and noncoding transcripts, characterized by complex alternative splicing patterns with more than 45% comprising novel isoforms of known genes. Interestingly, roughly one-fifth (2939) of these genes exhibited a dynamic expression profile reflecting the evolving role of SCs during the progression of spermatogenesis, with stage-specific expression of genes involved in biological processes such as cell cycle regulation, metabolism and energy production, retinoic acid synthesis, and blood-testis barrier biogenesis. Finally, regulatory network analysis identified the transcription factors endothelial PAS domain-containing protein 1 (EPAS1/Hif2α), aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT/Hif1β), and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) as potential master regulators driving the SC transcriptional program. Our results highlight the plastic transcriptional landscape of SCs during the progression of spermatogenesis and provide valuable resources to better understand SC function and spermatogenesis and its related disorders, such as male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Zimmermann
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development (C.Z., I.S., C.B., B.C., J.-L.P., P.C., S.N.), University of Geneva Medical School, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland; Center for Integrative Genomics (H.K.), University of Lausanne, Génopode, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; and Inserm U1085-IRSET (B.J., F.C.), Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, F-35042 Rennes, France
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Wen Q, Zheng QS, Li XX, Hu ZY, Gao F, Cheng CY, Liu YX. Wt1 dictates the fate of fetal and adult Leydig cells during development in the mouse testis. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2014; 307:E1131-43. [PMID: 25336526 PMCID: PMC6189632 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00425.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Wilms' tumor 1 (Wt1) is a tumor suppressor gene encoding ∼24 zinc finger transcription factors. In the mammalian testis, Wt1 is expressed mostly by Sertoli cells (SCs) involved in testis development, spermatogenesis, and adult Leydig cell (ALC) steroidogenesis. Global knockout (KO) of Wt1 is lethal in mice due to defects in embryogenesis. Herein, we showed that Wt1 is involved in regulating fetal Leydig cell (FLC) degeneration and ALC differentiation during testicular development. Using Wt1(-/flox);Amh-Cre mice that specifically deleted Wt1 in the SC vs. age-matched wild-type (WT) controls, FLC-like-clusters were found in Wt1-deficient testes that remained mitotically active from postnatal day 1 (P1) to P56, and no ALC was detected at these ages. Leydig cells in mutant adult testes displayed morphological features of FLC. Also, FLC-like cells in adult mutant testes had reduced expression in ALC-associated genes Ptgds, Sult1e1, Vcam1, Hsd11b1, Hsd3b6, and Hsd17b3 but high expression of FLC-associated genes Thbs2 and Hsd3b1. Whereas serum LH and testosterone level in mutant mice were not different from controls, intratesticular testosterone level was significantly reduced. Deletion of Wt1 gene also perturbed the expression of steroidogenic enzymes Star, P450c17, Hsd3b6, Hsd3b1, Hsd17b1, and Hsd17b3. FLCs in adult mutant testes failed to convert androstenedione to testosterone due to a lack of Hsd17b3, and this defect was rescued by coculturing with fetal SCs. In summary, FLC-like cells in mutant testes are putative FLCs that remain mitotically active in adult mice, illustrating that Wt1 dictates the fate of FLC and ALC during postnatal testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproduction Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; and
| | - Qiao-Song Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproduction Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; and
| | - Xi-Xia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproduction Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao-Yuan Hu
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; and
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproduction Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; and
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York
| | - Yi-Xun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproduction Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; and
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Jones S, Boisvert A, Duong TB, Francois S, Thrane P, Culty M. Disruption of Rat Testis Development Following Combined In Utero Exposure to the Phytoestrogen Genistein and Antiandrogenic Plasticizer Di-(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate1. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:64. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.120907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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35
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Rebourcet D, O'Shaughnessy PJ, Pitetti JL, Monteiro A, O'Hara L, Milne L, Tsai YT, Cruickshanks L, Riethmacher D, Guillou F, Mitchell RT, van't Hof R, Freeman TC, Nef S, Smith LB. Sertoli cells control peritubular myoid cell fate and support adult Leydig cell development in the prepubertal testis. Development 2014; 141:2139-49. [PMID: 24803659 DOI: 10.1242/dev.107029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs) regulate testicular fate in the differentiating gonad and are the main regulators of spermatogenesis in the adult testis; however, their role during the intervening period of testis development, in particular during adult Leydig cell (ALC) differentiation and function, remains largely unknown. To examine SC function during fetal and prepubertal development we generated two transgenic mouse models that permit controlled, cell-specific ablation of SCs in pre- and postnatal life. Results show that SCs are required: (1) to maintain the differentiated phenotype of peritubular myoid cells (PTMCs) in prepubertal life; (2) to maintain the ALC progenitor population in the postnatal testis; and (3) for development of normal ALC numbers. Furthermore, our data show that fetal LCs function independently from SC, germ cell or PTMC support in the prepubertal testis. Together, these findings reveal that SCs remain essential regulators of testis development long after the period of sex determination. These findings have significant implications for our understanding of male reproductive disorders and wider androgen-related conditions affecting male health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Rebourcet
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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Landreh L, Spinnler K, Schubert K, Häkkinen MR, Auriola S, Poutanen M, Söder O, Svechnikov K, Mayerhofer A. Human testicular peritubular cells host putative stem Leydig cells with steroidogenic capacity. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2014; 99:E1227-35. [PMID: 24684461 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2013-4199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM We aim to examine the steroidogenic phenotype and the differentiation potential of human testicular peritubular cells (HTPCs) and to explore their possible relationship to the adult Leydig cell lineage. BACKGROUND The cells of the adult Leydig cell lineage may reside in the peritubular compartment of the testis. This suggestion is supported by the facts that the rodent peritubular cells can be differentiated toward this lineage and that cAMP enhances their steroidogenic potential. METHODS Human testicular biopsies, and derived HTPCs, were analyzed by immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR, and Western blotting. After stimulation by forskolin or platelet-derived growth factor-BB, quantitative RT-PCR was used to compare the levels of mRNAs encoding proteins involved in steroidogenesis and steroid production was analyzed by liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the peritubular cells that form the outer part of the tubular wall express platelet derived growth factor receptor-α. Furthermore, the pluripotency markers (POU domain class 5 transcription factor 1, GATA-binding protein 4), stem Leydig cell markers (platelet derived growth factor receptor-A, leukemia inhibitory factor receptor), and mRNAs encoding proteins involved in steroidogenesis (nuclear receptor subfamily 5, group A, member 1; steroidogenic acute regulatory protein; CYP11A1; CYP17A1; 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase) were expressed by the HTPCs. Stimulation with forskolin increased the expression of the steroidogenic markers, which was accompanied by the production of pregnenolone and progesterone by HTPCs in vitro. Treatment with platelet-derived growth factor-BB induced expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that the tubular wall of the human testis is a reservoir for cells of the adult Leydig cell lineage and that the steroidogenic potential of these cells can be activated in culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luise Landreh
- Department of Women's and Children's Health (L.L., O.S., K.Sv.), Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Anatomy III-Cell Biology (K.Sp., K.Sc., A.M.), Ludwig Maximilian University, 80336 Munich, Germany; School of Pharmacy (M.R.H., S.A.), University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; and Turku Center for Disease Modeling (M.P.), Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
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Williams C, Bondesson M, Krementsov DN, Teuscher C. Gestational bisphenol A exposure and testis development. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 2. [PMID: 26167515 DOI: 10.4161/endo.29088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Virtually all humans are exposed to bisphenol A (BPA). Since BPA can act as a ligand for estrogen receptors, potential hazardous effects of BPA should be evaluated in the context of endogenous estrogenic hormones. Because estrogen is metabolized in the placenta, developing fetuses are normally exposed to very low endogenous estrogen levels. BPA, on the other hand, passes through the placenta and might have distinct adverse consequences during the sensitive stages of fetal development. Testicular gametogenesis and steroidogenesis begin early during fetal development. These processes are sensitive to estrogens and play a role in determining the number of germ stem cells, sperm count, and male hormone levels in adulthood. Although studies have shown a correlation between BPA exposure and perturbed reproduction, a clear consensus has yet to be established as to whether current human gestational BPA exposure results in direct adverse effects on male genital development and reproduction. However, studies in animals and in vitro have provided direct evidence for the ability of BPA exposure to influence male reproductive development. This review discusses the current knowledge of potential effects of BPA exposure on male reproductive health and whether gestational exposure adversely affects testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Williams
- Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling; Department of Biology and Biochemistry; University of Houston, Houston, TX USA
| | - Maria Bondesson
- Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling; Department of Biology and Biochemistry; University of Houston, Houston, TX USA
| | - Dimitry N Krementsov
- Department of Medicine; Immunobiology Program; University of Vermont; Burlington, VT USA
| | - Cory Teuscher
- Department of Medicine; Immunobiology Program; University of Vermont; Burlington, VT USA ; Department of Pathology; University of Vermont; Burlington, VT USA
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Odeh HM, Kleinguetl C, Ge R, Zirkin BR, Chen H. Regulation of the proliferation and differentiation of Leydig stem cells in the adult testis. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:123. [PMID: 24740597 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.117473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
We reported previously that stem cells associated with adult rat testis seminiferous tubules are able to give rise to differentiated Leydig cells in vitro. The regulatory mechanisms by which they do so, however, are uncertain. Herein, we hypothesized that the proliferation and differentiation of Leydig cell stem cells (stem Leydig cells, SLCs) depend upon locally produced factors from the seminiferous tubules. Microarray analysis revealed that platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRalpha) is up-regulated and PDGFRbeta is down-regulated with postnatal differentiation of SLCs. This suggested that their ligands, PDGF-AA and PDGF-BB, respectively, might have important roles in SLC proliferation and differentiation. To test this, we developed a unique in vitro culture system in which SLCs proliferate on the surfaces of cultured seminiferous tubules largely during Week 1 of culture and their progeny subsequently differentiate to testosterone-forming Leydig cells during Weeks 2 through 4. Using this system, seminiferous tubules from adult rat testes were cultured with PDGF-AA or PDGF-BB for up to 4 wk. Both ligands stimulated SLC proliferation during the first week of culture, with PDGF-BB significantly more potent than PDGF-AA. Furthermore, PDGF-AA had a stimulatory effect on SLC differentiation from Weeks 2 through 4 of culture. In contrast, PDGF-BB, which stimulated cell proliferation during Week 1, had a significant inhibitory effect on differentiation during Weeks 2 through 4. These findings, made possible by the development of the seminiferous tubule culture system, reveal distinct roles by locally produced PDGFs in SLC regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana M Odeh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Colin Kleinguetl
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Barry R Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Haolin Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
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39
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Wang LY, Wang N, Le F, Li L, Li LJ, Liu XZ, Zheng YM, Lou HY, Xu XR, Zhu XM, Zhu YM, Huang HF, Jin F. Persistence and intergenerational transmission of differentially expressed genes in the testes of intracytoplasmic sperm injection conceived mice. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2014; 14:372-81. [PMID: 23645174 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b1200321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is commonly used to solve male infertility problems. Previous studies showed that early environmental exposure of an embryo may influence postnatal development. To detect whether ICSI operations affect the reproductive health of a male or his offspring, we established assisted reproductive technologies (ART) conceived mouse models, and analyzed gene expression profiles in the testes of both ICSI and naturally conceived (NC) newborn F1 mice using micro-array analysis. Among the differentially expressed genes, we focused on the expression of eight male reproduction-related genes. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to analyze the expression of these genes in the testes of both adult and old F1 generation mice and adult F2 generation mice. Our results showed that down-regulated and somatic cell-expressed genes in newborn mice retained their differential expression patterns in adult and old F1 generation individuals, implying the persistence and fetal origin of the alteration in the expression of these genes. The intergenerational transmission of differential gene expression was observed, but most changes tended to be reduced in adult F2 generations. Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) mice models were added to explore the precise factors contributing to the differences in ICSI offspring. The data demonstrated that superovulation, in vitro culture, and mechanical stimulation involved in ICSI had a cumulative effect on the differential expression of these male reproductive genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-ya Wang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang), Ministry of Education, and Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, China
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Hazra R, Jimenez M, Desai R, Handelsman DJ, Allan CM. Sertoli cell androgen receptor expression regulates temporal fetal and adult Leydig cell differentiation, function, and population size. Endocrinology 2013; 154:3410-22. [PMID: 23766127 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-2273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We recently created a mouse model displaying precocious Sertoli cell (SC) and spermatogenic development induced by SC-specific transgenic androgen receptor expression (TgSCAR). Here we reveal that TgSCAR regulates the development, function, and absolute number of Leydig cells (LCs). Total fetal and adult type LC numbers were reduced in postnatal and adult TgSCAR vs control testes, despite normal circulating LH levels. Normal LC to SC ratios found in TgSCAR testes indicate that SC androgen receptor (SCAR)-mediated activity confers a quorum-dependent relationship between total SC and LC numbers. TgSCAR enhanced LC differentiation, shown by elevated ratios of advanced to immature LC types, and reduced LC proliferation in postnatal TgSCAR vs control testes. Postnatal TgSCAR testes displayed up-regulated expression of coupled ligand-receptor transcripts (Amh-Amhr2, Dhh-Ptch1, Pdgfa-Pdgfra) for potential SCAR-stimulated paracrine pathways, which may coordinate LC differentiation. Neonatal TgSCAR testes displayed normal T and dihydrotestosterone levels despite differential changes to steroidogenic gene expression, with down-regulated Star, Cyp11a1, and Cyp17a1 expression contrasting with up-regulated Hsd3b1, Hsd17b3, and Srd5a1 expression. TgSCAR males also displayed elevated postnatal and normal adult serum testosterone levels, despite reduced LC numbers. Enhanced adult-type LC steroidogenic output was revealed by increased pubertal testicular T, dihydrotestosterone, 3α-diol and 3β-diol levels per LC and up-regulated steroidogenic gene (Nr5a1, Lhr, Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, Hsd3b6, Srd5a1) expression in pubertal or adult TgSCAR vs control males, suggesting regulatory mechanisms maintain androgen levels independently of absolute LC numbers. Our unique gain-of-function TgSCAR model has revealed that SCAR activity controls temporal LC differentiation, steroidogenic function, and population size.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Animals, Newborn
- Biomarkers/metabolism
- Cell Count
- Cell Differentiation
- Hemizygote
- Isoenzymes/biosynthesis
- Isoenzymes/genetics
- Isoenzymes/metabolism
- Leydig Cells/cytology
- Leydig Cells/metabolism
- Ligands
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Patched Receptors
- Patched-1 Receptor
- Receptor, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor alpha/biosynthesis
- Receptor, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor alpha/genetics
- Receptor, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor alpha/metabolism
- Receptors, Androgen/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Androgen/genetics
- Receptors, Androgen/metabolism
- Receptors, Cell Surface/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Cell Surface/genetics
- Receptors, Cell Surface/metabolism
- Receptors, Peptide/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Peptide/genetics
- Receptors, Peptide/metabolism
- Receptors, Transforming Growth Factor beta/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Transforming Growth Factor beta/genetics
- Receptors, Transforming Growth Factor beta/metabolism
- Sertoli Cells/cytology
- Sertoli Cells/metabolism
- Sexual Development
- Testis/cytology
- Testis/growth & development
- Testis/metabolism
- Testosterone Congeners/blood
- Testosterone Congeners/metabolism
- Up-Regulation
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasmani Hazra
- ANZAC Research Institute, Concord Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales 2139, Australia
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Krementsov DN, Katchy A, Case LK, Carr FE, Davis B, Williams C, Teuscher C. Studies in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis do not support developmental bisphenol a exposure as an environmental factor in increasing multiple sclerosis risk. Toxicol Sci 2013; 135:91-102. [PMID: 23798566 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kft141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS), a demyelinating immune-mediated central nervous system disease characterized by increasing female penetrance, is the leading cause of disability in young adults in the developed world. Epidemiological data strongly implicate an environmental factor, acting at the population level during gestation, in the increasing incidence of female MS observed over the last 50 years, yet the identity of this factor remains unknown. Gestational exposure to bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics since the 1950s, has been reported to alter a variety of physiological processes in adulthood. BPA has estrogenic activity, and we hypothesized that increased gestational exposure to environmental BPA may therefore contribute to the increasing female MS risk. To test this hypothesis, we utilized two different mouse models of MS, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in C57BL/6J mice (chronic progressive) and in SJL/J mice (relapsing-remitting). Dams were exposed to physiologically relevant levels of BPA in drinking water starting 2 weeks prior to mating and continuing until weaning of offspring. EAE was induced in adult offspring. No significant changes in EAE incidence, progression, or severity were observed with BPA exposure, despite changes in cytokine production by autoreactive T cells. However, endocrine disruption was evidenced by changes in testes development, and transcriptomic profiling revealed that BPA exposure altered the expression of several genes important for testes development, including Pdgfa, which was downregulated. Overall, our results do not support gestational BPA exposure as a significant contributor to the increasing female MS risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitry N Krementsov
- Department of Medicine, Immunobiology Program, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont 05405, USA
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Abstract
In healthy men, several layers of inconspicuously flat cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins build the wall of the seminiferous tubules. The cells of this wall, peritubular cells, are not well characterized. They are smooth-muscle-like and contractile and transport immotile sperm, a function important for male fertility. However, their full functional importance, especially their potential contribution to the paracrine regulation of the male gonad, is unknown. In men with impaired spermatogenesis, the architecture of the tubular wall is frequently altered. Deposits of ECM and morphological changes of peritubular cells imply that functions of peritubular cells may be fundamentally altered. To be able to study human peritubular cells and their functions, a culture method was established. It is based on small biopsies of patients with obstructive azoospermia but normal spermatogenesis (human testicular peritubular cells, HTPCs) and non-obstructive azoospermia, impaired spermatogenesis, and testicular fibrosis (HTPCFs). Results obtained from cellular studies and parallel examinations of biopsies provide insights into the repertoire of the secretion products, contractile properties, and plasticity of human peritubular cells. They produce ECM components, including the proteoglycan decorin, which may influence paracrine signaling between testicular cells. They may contribute to the spermatogonial stem cell niche via secreted factors. They are regulated by mast cell and macrophage products, and in response produce factors that can fuel inflammatory changes. They possess a high degree of plasticity, which results in hypertrophy and loss of contractile abilities. The data collectively indicate important roles of inconspicuous testicular peritubular cells in human male fertility and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Mayerhofer
- Anatomy III-Cell Biology, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Biedersteiner Strasse 29, D-80802 Munich, Germany.
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Obesity and metabolic comorbidities: environmental diseases? OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2013; 2013:640673. [PMID: 23577225 PMCID: PMC3613100 DOI: 10.1155/2013/640673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Revised: 01/22/2013] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Obesity and metabolic comorbidities represent increasing health problems. Endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) are exogenous agents that change endocrine function and cause adverse health effects. Most EDCs are synthetic chemicals; some are natural food components as phytoestrogens. People are exposed to complex mixtures of chemicals throughout their lives. EDCs impact hormone-dependent metabolic systems and brain function. Laboratory and human studies provide compelling evidence that human chemical contamination can play a role in obesity epidemic. Chemical exposures may increase the risk of obesity by altering the differentiation of adipocytes. EDCs can alter methylation patterns and normal epigenetic programming in cells. Oxidative stress may be induced by many of these chemicals, and accumulating evidence indicates that it plays important roles in the etiology of chronic diseases. The individual sensitivity to chemicals is variable, depending on environment and ability to metabolize hazardous chemicals. A number of genes, especially those representing antioxidant and detoxification pathways, have potential application as biomarkers of risk assessment. The potential health effects of combined exposures make the risk assessment process more complex compared to the assessment of single chemicals. Techniques and methods need to be further developed to fill data gaps and increase the knowledge on harmful exposure combinations.
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Hutson JM, Li R, Southwell BR, Petersen BL, Thorup J, Cortes D. Germ cell development in the postnatal testis: the key to prevent malignancy in cryptorchidism? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2013; 3:176. [PMID: 23316184 PMCID: PMC3539691 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2012.00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
To permit normal postnatal germ cell development, the mammalian testis undergoes a complex, multi-staged process of descent to the scrotum. Failure of any part of this process leads to congenital cryptorchidism, wherein the malpositioned testis finds itself at the wrong temperature after birth, which leads to secondary germ cell loss and later infertility and risk of cancer. Recent studies suggest that neonatal gonocytes transform into the putative spermatogenic stem cells between 3 and 9 months, and this initial postnatal step is deranged in cryptorchid testes. In addition, it is thought the abnormality high temperature may also impair apoptosis of remaining gonocytes, allowing some to persist to become the possible source of carcinoma in situ and malignancy after puberty. The biology of postnatal germ cell development is of intense interest, as it is likely to be the key to the optimal timing for orchidopexy.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M. Hutson
- Department of Urology, Royal Children’s HospitalParkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ruili Li
- Department of Urology, Royal Children’s HospitalParkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Bridget R. Southwell
- F Douglas Stephens, Surgical Research Group, Murdoch Childrens Research InstituteMelbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Bodil L. Petersen
- Department of Pathology, University of CopenhagenCopenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jorgen Thorup
- Department of Paediatric Surgery and Pathology, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health Science, University of CopenhagenCopenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dina Cortes
- Department of Paediatrics, Hvidovre Hospital, Faculty of Health Science, University of CopenhagenCopenhagen, Denmark
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Abstract
The failure of testicular descent or cryptorchidism is the most common defect in newborn boys. The descent of the testes during development is controlled by insulin-like 3 peptide and steroid hormones produced in testicular Leydig cells, as well as by various genetic and developmental factors. While in some cases the association with genetic abnormalities and environmental causes has been shown, the etiology of cryptorchidism remains uncertain. Cryptorchidism is an established risk factor for infertility and testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT). Experimental animal models suggest a causative role for an abnormal testicular position on the disruption of spermatogenesis however the link between cryptorchidism and TGCT is less clear. The most common type of TGCT in cryptorchid testes is seminoma, believed to be derived from pluripotent prenatal germ cells. Recent studies have shown that seminoma cells and their precursor carcinoma in situ cells express a number of spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) markers suggesting that TGCTs might originate from adult stem cells. We review here the data on changes in the SSC somatic cell niche observed in cryptorchid testes of mouse models and in human patients. We propose that the misregulation of growth factors' expression may alter the balance between SSC self-renewal and differentiation and shift stem cells toward neoplastic transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Ferguson
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International UniversityMiami, FL, USA
| | - Alexander I. Agoulnik
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International UniversityMiami, FL, USA
- *Correspondence: Alexander I. Agoulnik, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th Street, HLSI 419B, Miami, FL 33199, USA. e-mail:
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46
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Transcriptome profiling of the developing postnatal mouse testis using next-generation sequencing. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2012; 56:1-12. [PMID: 23269550 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-012-4411-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2012] [Accepted: 11/09/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian testis development is a complex and highly sophisticated process. To study the dynamic change of normal testis development at the transcriptional level, we investigated mouse testes at three postnatal ages: 6 days postnatal, 4 weeks old, and 10 weeks old, representing infant (PN1), juvenile (PN2), and adult (PN3) stages, respectively. Using ultra high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) technology, we obtained 211 million reads with a length of 35 bp. We identified 18837 genes that were expressed in mouse testes, and found that genes expressed at the highest level were involved in spermatogenesis. The gene expression pattern in PN1 was distinct from that in PN2 and PN3, which indicates that spermatogenesis has commenced in PN2. We analyzed a large number of genes related to spermatogenesis and somatic development of the testis, which play important roles at different developmental stages. We also found that the MAPK, Hedgehog, and Wnt signaling pathways were significantly involved at different developmental stages. These findings further our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that regulate testis development. Our study also demonstrates significant advantages of RNA-seq technology for studying transcriptome during development.
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Gentile V, Nicotra M, Scaravelli G, Antonini G, Ambrosi S, Saccucci P, Adanti S, Bottini E, Gloria-Bottini F. ACP1genetic polymorphism and spermatic parameters in men with varicocele. Andrologia 2012; 46:147-50. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- V. Gentile
- Department of Gynaecologic, Obstetric and Urologic Sciences; University of Rome La Sapienza; Rome Italy
| | - M. Nicotra
- Department of Gynaecologic, Obstetric and Urologic Sciences; University of Rome La Sapienza; Rome Italy
| | - G. Scaravelli
- ART Italian National Register, Surveillance and Health Promotion; Italian National Institute of Health; Rome Italy
| | - G. Antonini
- Department of Gynaecologic, Obstetric and Urologic Sciences; University of Rome La Sapienza; Rome Italy
| | - S. Ambrosi
- Department of Gynaecologic, Obstetric and Urologic Sciences; University of Rome La Sapienza; Rome Italy
| | - P. Saccucci
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention; University of Rome Tor Vergata; Rome Italy
| | - S. Adanti
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention; University of Rome Tor Vergata; Rome Italy
| | - E. Bottini
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention; University of Rome Tor Vergata; Rome Italy
| | - F. Gloria-Bottini
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention; University of Rome Tor Vergata; Rome Italy
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Stanley E, Lin CY, Jin S, Liu J, Sottas CM, Ge R, Zirkin BR, Chen H. Identification, proliferation, and differentiation of adult Leydig stem cells. Endocrinology 2012; 153:5002-10. [PMID: 22865373 PMCID: PMC3512003 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-1417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Leydig cells, the testosterone-producing cells of the adult testis, rarely turn over. However, their elimination with ethane dimethanesulfonate (EDS) is followed by the appearance of new, fully functional adult Leydig cells. The cells that give rise to the new Leydig cells have not been well characterized, and little is known about the mechanism by which they are regulated. We isolated cells expressing platelet-derived growth factor receptor-α, but not 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD(neg)) from the testes of EDS-treated adult rats. Depending on conditions, these cells proliferated indefinitely or differentiated and produced testosterone. To localize these cells and to determine the effect of the testicular environment on their function, the seminiferous tubules and testicular interstitium were physically separated and cultured. During the first 72 h in culture, 3β-HSD(neg) cells on the tubule surfaces underwent divisions. Some of these cells later expressed 3β-HSD and produced testosterone. Removal of the newly formed 3β-HSD(pos) cells from the tubule surfaces with EDS, followed by further culture of the stripped tubules, resulted in the reappearance of testosterone-producing cells. These results, taken together, suggest that the precursors for newly formed Leydig cells are stem cells, with many if not all situated on the surfaces of the seminiferous tubules. Although normally quiescent, the stem cells are capable of self-renewal and differentiation. The development of the tubule culture system should provide a valuable in vitro approach to assess the role(s) of niche components on the function of adult Leydig stem cells despite their residing in a complex mammalian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Stanley
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
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Adam M, Urbanski HF, Garyfallou VT, Welsch U, Köhn FM, Ullrich Schwarzer J, Strauss L, Poutanen M, Mayerhofer A. High levels of the extracellular matrix proteoglycan decorin are associated with inhibition of testicular function. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 35:550-61. [PMID: 22413766 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2011.01225.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Decorin (DCN), a component of the extracellular matrix of the peritubular wall and the interstitial areas of the human testis, can interact with growth factor (GF) signalling, thereby blocking downstream actions of GFs. In the present study the expression and regulation of DCN using both human testes and two experimental animal models, namely the rhesus monkey and mouse, were examined. DCN protein was present in peritubular and interstitial areas of adult human and monkey testes, while it was almost undetectable in adult wild type mice. Interestingly, the levels and sites of testicular DCN expression in the monkeys were inversely correlated with testicular maturation markers. A strong DCN expression associated with the abundant connective tissue of the interstitial areas in the postnatal through pre-pubertal phases was observed. In adult and old monkeys the DCN pattern was similar to the one in normal human testes, presenting strong expression at the peritubular region. In the testes of both infertile men and in a mouse model of inflammation associated infertility (aromatase-overexpressing transgenic mice), the fibrotic changes and increased numbers of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α-producing immune cells were shown to be associated with increased production of DCN. Furthermore, studies with human testicular peritubular cells isolated from fibrotic testis indicated that TNF-α significantly increased DCN production. The data, thus, show that an increased DCN level is associated with impaired testicular function, supporting our hypothesis that DCN interferes with paracrine signalling of the testis in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Adam
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
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Adam M, Schwarzer J, Köhn F, Strauss L, Poutanen M, Mayerhofer A. Mast cell tryptase stimulates production of decorin by human testicular peritubular cells: possible role of decorin in male infertility by interfering with growth factor signaling. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:2613-25. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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