1
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Miyazaki Y, Orisaka M, Fujita Y, Mizutani T, Yazawa T, Yoshida Y. Steroidogenic differentiation of human amniotic membrane-derived mesenchymal stem cells into a progesterone-/androgen-producing cell lineage by SF-1 and an estrogen-producing cell lineage by WT1-KTS. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1410433. [PMID: 39359415 PMCID: PMC11445051 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1410433] [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: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Sex steroid hormones, primarily synthesized by gonadal somatic cells, are pivotal for sexual development and reproduction. Mice studies have shown that two transcription factors, steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1) and Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1), are involved in gonadal development. However, their role in human gonadal somatic differentiation remains unclear. We therefore aimed to investigate the roles of SF-1 and WT1 in human gonadal steroidogenic cell differentiation. Methods Using a transient lentivirus-mediated gene expression system, we assessed the effects of SF-1 and WT1 expression on the steroidogenic potential of human amniotic membrane-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAmMSCs). Results SF-1 and WT1-KTS, a splice variant of WT1, played distinct roles in human steroidogenic differentiation of hAmMSCs. SF-1 induced hAmMSC differentiation into progesterone- and androgen-producing cell lineages, whereas WT1-KTS promoted hAmMSC differentiation into estrogen-producing cell lineages. Conclusion Our findings revealed that SF-1 and WT1-KTS play important roles in human gonadal steroidogenic cell differentiation, especially during ovarian development. These findings may pave the way for future studies on human ovarian differentiation and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumiko Miyazaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Makoto Orisaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Yuko Fujita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Mizutani
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Welfare Sciences, Fukui Prefectural University, Fukui, Japan
| | - Takashi Yazawa
- Department of Biochemistry, Asahikawa Medical University, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Yoshio Yoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
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2
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Zhao T, He M, Zhu Z, Zhang T, Zheng W, Qin S, Gao M, Wang W, Chen Z, Han J, Liu L, Zhou B, Wang H, Zhang H, Xia G, Wang J, Wang F, Wang C. P62 promotes FSH-induced antral follicle formation by directing degradation of ubiquitinated WT1. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:221. [PMID: 38763964 PMCID: PMC11102895 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05251-x] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
In females, the pathophysiological mechanism of poor ovarian response (POR) is not fully understood. Considering the expression level of p62 was significantly reduced in the granulosa cells (GCs) of POR patients, this study focused on identifying the role of the selective autophagy receptor p62 in conducting the effect of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) on antral follicles (AFs) formation in female mice. The results showed that p62 in GCs was FSH responsive and that its level increased to a peak and then decreased time-dependently either in ovaries or in GCs after gonadotropin induction in vivo. GC-specific deletion of p62 resulted in subfertility, a significantly reduced number of AFs and irregular estrous cycles, which were same as pathophysiological symptom of POR. By conducting mass spectrum analysis, we found the ubiquitination of proteins was decreased, and autophagic flux was blocked in GCs. Specifically, the level of nonubiquitinated Wilms tumor 1 homolog (WT1), a transcription factor and negative controller of GC differentiation, increased steadily. Co-IP results showed that p62 deletion increased the level of ubiquitin-specific peptidase 5 (USP5), which blocked the ubiquitination of WT1. Furthermore, a joint analysis of RNA-seq and the spatial transcriptome sequencing data showed the expression of steroid metabolic genes and FSH receptors pivotal for GCs differentiation decreased unanimously. Accordingly, the accumulation of WT1 in GCs deficient of p62 decreased steroid hormone levels and reduced FSH responsiveness, while the availability of p62 in GCs simultaneously ensured the degradation of WT1 through the ubiquitin‒proteasome system and autophagolysosomal system. Therefore, p62 in GCs participates in GC differentiation and AF formation in FSH induction by dynamically controlling the degradation of WT1. The findings of the study contributes to further study the pathology of POR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Meina He
- College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, 550025, China
| | - Zijian Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Tuo Zhang
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, 550025, China
| | - Wenying Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shaogang Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Meng Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Wenji Wang
- School of Life Science, Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, China
| | - Ziqi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jun Han
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Longping Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Bo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian Province, 361005, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, 750021, China
| | - Jianbin Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Fengchao Wang
- Transgenic Animal Center, National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
- China Agricultural University, No.2 Yuan Ming Yuan West Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100193, China.
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3
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Wen F, Ding Y, Wang M, Du J, Zhang S, Kee K. FOXL2 and NR5A1 induce human fibroblasts into steroidogenic ovarian granulosa-like cells. Cell Prolif 2024; 57:e13589. [PMID: 38192172 PMCID: PMC11056703 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13589] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Human granulosa cells in different stages are essential for maintaining normal ovarian function, and granulosa cell defect is the main cause of ovarian dysfunction. To address this problem, it is necessary to induce functional granulosa cells at different stages in vitro. In this study, we established a reprogramming method to induce early- and late-stage granulosa cells with different steroidogenic abilities. We used an AMH-fluorescence-reporter system to screen candidate factors for cellular reprogramming and generated human induced granulosa-like cells (hiGC) by overexpressing FOXL2 and NR5A1. AMH-EGFP+ hiGC resembled human cumulus cells in transcriptome profiling and secreted high levels of oestrogen and progesterone, similar to late-stage granulosa cells at antral or preovulatory stage. Moreover, we identified CD55 as a cell surface marker that can be used to isolate early-stage granulosa cells. CD55+ AMH-EGFP- hiGC secreted high levels of oestrogen but low levels of progesterone, and their transcriptome profiles were more similar to early-stage granulosa cells. More importantly, CD55+ hiGC transplantation alleviated polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in a mouse model. Therefore, hiGC provides a cellular model to study the developmental program of human granulosa cells and has potential to treat PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Wen
- The State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases; SXMU‐Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine; Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of MedicineTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yuxi Ding
- The State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases; SXMU‐Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine; Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of MedicineTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Mingming Wang
- The State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases; SXMU‐Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine; Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of MedicineTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Jing Du
- The State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases; SXMU‐Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine; Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of MedicineTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Shen Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated HospitalWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouChina
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated HospitalChongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Kehkooi Kee
- The State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases; SXMU‐Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine; Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of MedicineTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
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4
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Gao Y, Wang Z, Long Y, Yang L, Jiang Y, Ding D, Teng B, Chen M, Yuan J, Gao F. Unveiling the roles of Sertoli cells lineage differentiation in reproductive development and disorders: a review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1357594. [PMID: 38699384 PMCID: PMC11063913 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1357594] [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: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In mammals, gonadal somatic cell lineage differentiation determines the development of the bipotential gonad into either the ovary or testis. Sertoli cells, the only somatic cells in the spermatogenic tubules, support spermatogenesis during gonadal development. During embryonic Sertoli cell lineage differentiation, relevant genes, including WT1, GATA4, SRY, SOX9, AMH, PTGDS, SF1, and DMRT1, are expressed at specific times and in specific locations to ensure the correct differentiation of the embryo toward the male phenotype. The dysregulated development of Sertoli cells leads to gonadal malformations and male fertility disorders. Nevertheless, the molecular pathways underlying the embryonic origin of Sertoli cells remain elusive. By reviewing recent advances in research on embryonic Sertoli cell genesis and its key regulators, this review provides novel insights into sex determination in male mammals as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying the genealogical differentiation of Sertoli cells in the male reproductive ridge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Gao
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Zican Wang
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Yue Long
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Lici Yang
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Yongjian Jiang
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Dongyu Ding
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Baojian Teng
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Min Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jinxiang Yuan
- The Collaborative Innovation Center, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
- Lin He’s Academician Workstation of New Medicine and Clinical Translation, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- The Collaborative Innovation Center, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
- Lin He’s Academician Workstation of New Medicine and Clinical Translation, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
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5
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Liu W, Chen M, Liu C, Wang L, Wei H, Zhang R, Ren Z, Chen Y, Luo M, Zhao J, Jiang H, Gao F, Li W. Epg5 deficiency leads to primary ovarian insufficiency due to WT1 accumulation in mouse granulosa cells. Autophagy 2023; 19:644-659. [PMID: 35786405 PMCID: PMC9851269 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2022.2094671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), also known as premature ovarian failure, is an ovarian defect in humans characterized by the premature depletion of ovarian follicles before the age of 40. However, the mechanisms underlying POI remain largely unknown. Here, we show that knockout of Epg5 (ectopic P-granules autophagy protein 5 homolog (C. elegans)) results in subfertility in female mice, which exhibit a POI-like phenotype. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed that the knockout of Epg5 affected the differentiation of granulosa cells (GCs). Further investigation demonstrated that knockout of Epg5 blocks macroautophagic/autophagic flux, resulting in the accumulation of WT1 (WT1 transcription factor), an essential transcription factor for GCs, suggesting WT1 needs to be selectively degraded by the autophagy pathway. We found that the insufficient degradation of WT1 in the antral follicular stage contributes to reduced expression of steroidogenesis-related genes, thereby disrupting GC differentiation. Collectively, our studies show that EPG5 promotes WT1 degradation in GCs, indicating that the dysregulation of Epg5 in GCs can trigger POI pathogenesis.Abbreviations: 3-MA, 3-methyladenine; CHX, cycloheximide; CQ, chloroquine; EPG5, ectopic P-granules autophagy protein 5 homolog (C. elegans); GC, granulosa cell; MAP1LC3/LC3, microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3; MII, metaphase II; POI, primary ovarian insufficiency; PB1, polar body 1; SQSTM1/p62, sequestosome 1; WT1, WT1 transcription factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Min Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Chao Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Liying Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Huafang Wei
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Ruidan Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Zhengxing Ren
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Yinghong Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Mengcheng Luo
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R China
| | - Jianguo Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Hongwei Jiang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, P.R. China,National Center for Clinical Research of Metabolic Diseases, Luoyang Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Luoyang, P.R. China,CONTACT Hongwei Jiang Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, P.R. China
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,Fei Gao State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100101, P.R. China
| | - Wei Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,Wei Li Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou510623, P.R. China
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6
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AIRE in Male Fertility: A New Hypothesis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193168. [PMID: 36231130 PMCID: PMC9563308 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193168] [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: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility affects approximately 14% of all European men, of which ~44% are characterized as idiopathic. There is an urgency to identify the factors that affect male fertility. One such factor, Autoimmune Regulator (AIRE), a protein found in the thymus, has been studied in the context of central tolerance functioning as a nuclear transcription modulator, responsible for the expression of tissue-restricted antigens in specialized thymic cells that prevent autoimmunity. While its expression in the testes remains enigmatic, we recently observed that sterility in mice correlates with the absence of Aire in the testes, regardless of the deficient expression in medullary thymic epithelial cells or cells of the hematopoietic system. By assessing the Aire transcript levels, we discovered that Sertoli cells are the exclusive source of Aire in the testes, where it most likely plays a non-immune role, suggesting an unknown mechanism by which testicular Aire regulates fertility. Here, we discuss these results in the context of previous reports which have suggested that infertility observed in Aire deficient mice is of an autoimmune aetiology. We present an alternative point of view for the role of Aire in testes in respect to fertility altering the perspective of how Aire's function in the testes is currently perceived.
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7
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Xie Y, Wu C, Li Z, Wu Z, Hong L. Early Gonadal Development and Sex Determination in Mammal. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147500. [PMID: 35886859 PMCID: PMC9323860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex determination is crucial for the transmission of genetic information through generations. In mammal, this process is primarily regulated by an antagonistic network of sex-related genes beginning in embryonic development and continuing throughout life. Nonetheless, abnormal expression of these sex-related genes will lead to reproductive organ and germline abnormalities, resulting in disorders of sex development (DSD) and infertility. On the other hand, it is possible to predetermine the sex of animal offspring by artificially regulating sex-related gene expression, a recent research hotspot. In this paper, we reviewed recent research that has improved our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the development of the gonad and primordial germ cells (PGCs), progenitors of the germline, to provide new directions for the treatment of DSD and infertility, both of which involve manipulating the sex ratio of livestock offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshe Xie
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Changhua Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Zicong Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Correspondence: (Z.W.); (L.H.)
| | - Linjun Hong
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Correspondence: (Z.W.); (L.H.)
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8
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Barnada SM, Isopi A, Tejada-Martinez D, Goubert C, Patoori S, Pagliaroli L, Tracewell M, Trizzino M. Genomic features underlie the co-option of SVA transposons as cis-regulatory elements in human pluripotent stem cells. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010225. [PMID: 35704668 PMCID: PMC9239442 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Domestication of transposable elements (TEs) into functional cis-regulatory elements is a widespread phenomenon. However, the mechanisms behind why some TEs are co-opted as functional enhancers while others are not are underappreciated. SINE-VNTR-Alus (SVAs) are the youngest group of transposons in the human genome, where ~3,700 copies are annotated, nearly half of which are human-specific. Many studies indicate that SVAs are among the most frequently co-opted TEs in human gene regulation, but the mechanisms underlying such processes have not yet been thoroughly investigated. Here, we leveraged CRISPR-interference (CRISPRi), computational and functional genomics to elucidate the genomic features that underlie SVA domestication into human stem-cell gene regulation. We found that ~750 SVAs are co-opted as functional cis-regulatory elements in human induced pluripotent stem cells. These SVAs are significantly closer to genes and harbor more transcription factor binding sites than non-co-opted SVAs. We show that a long DNA motif composed of flanking YY1/2 and OCT4 binding sites is enriched in the co-opted SVAs and that these two transcription factors bind consecutively on the TE sequence. We used CRISPRi to epigenetically repress active SVAs in stem cell-like NCCIT cells. Epigenetic perturbation of active SVAs strongly attenuated YY1/OCT4 binding and influenced neighboring gene expression. Ultimately, SVA repression resulted in ~3,000 differentially expressed genes, 131 of which were the nearest gene to an annotated SVA. In summary, we demonstrated that SVAs modulate human gene expression, and uncovered that location and sequence composition contribute to SVA domestication into gene regulatory networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M. Barnada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Genetics, Genomics and Cancer Biology PhD Program, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Andrew Isopi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology PhD Program, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Daniela Tejada-Martinez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Clément Goubert
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sruti Patoori
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Luca Pagliaroli
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Mason Tracewell
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology PhD Program, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Marco Trizzino
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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9
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Wang Y, Chen Q, Zhang F, Yang X, Shang L, Ren S, Pan Y, Zhou Z, Li G, Fang Y, Jin L, Wu Y, Zhang X. Whole exome sequencing identified a rare WT1 loss-of-function variant in a non-syndromic POI patient. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2022; 10:e1820. [PMID: 34845858 PMCID: PMC8801142 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a highly heterogeneous disease, and up to 25% of cases can be explained by genetic causes. The transcription factor WT1 has long been reported to play a crucial role in ovary function. Wt1-mutated female mice exhibited POI-like phenotypes. METHODS AND RESULTS In this study, whole exome sequencing (WES) was applied to find the cause of POI in Han Chinese women. A nonsense variant in the WT1 gene: NM_024426.6:c.1387C>T(p.R463*) was identified in a non-syndromic POI woman. The variant is a heterozygous de novo mutation that is very rare in the human population. The son of the patient inherited the mutation and developed Wilms' tumor and urethral malformation at the age of 7. According to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and the Association for Molecular Pathology (ACMG/AMP) guidelines, the novel variant is categorized as pathogenic. Western blot analysis further demonstrated that the WT1 variant could produce a truncated WT1 isoform in vitro. CONCLUSIONS A rare heterozygous nonsense WT1 mutant is associated with non-syndromic POI and Wilms' tumor. Our finding characterized another pathogenic WT1 variant, providing insight into genetic counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingchen Wang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Qing Chen
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative BiologyFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Feng Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative BiologyFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Xi Yang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative BiologyFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Lingyue Shang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Shuting Ren
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yuncheng Pan
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Zixue Zhou
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative BiologyFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Guoqing Li
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yunzheng Fang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative BiologyFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Li Jin
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yanhua Wu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Biology EducationSchool of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaojin Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalNHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research)School of Life SciencesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
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10
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Thomson E, Zhao L, Chen YS, Longmuss E, Ng ET, Sreenivasan R, Croft B, Song X, Sinclair A, Weiss M, Koopman P, Pelosi E. Generation and mutational analysis of a transgenic mouse model of human SRY. Hum Mutat 2021; 43:362-379. [PMID: 34918413 DOI: 10.1002/humu.24318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
SRY is the Y-chromosomal gene that determines male sex development in humans and most other mammals. After three decades of study, we still lack a detailed understanding of which domains of the SRY protein are required to engage the pathway of gene activity leading to testis development. Some insight has been gained from the study of genetic variations underlying differences/disorders of sex determination (DSD), but the lack of a system of experimentally generating SRY mutations and studying their consequences in vivo has limited progress in the field. To address this issue, we generated a mouse model carrying a human SRY transgene able to drive testis determination in XX mice. Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, we generated novel genetic modifications in each of SRY's three domains (N-terminal, HMG box, and C-terminal) and performed a detailed analysis of their molecular and cellular effects on embryonic testis development. Our results provide new functional insights unique to human SRY and present a versatile and powerful system in which to functionally analyze variations of SRY including known and novel pathogenic variants found in DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ella Thomson
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Liang Zhao
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yen-Shan Chen
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Enya Longmuss
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ee Ting Ng
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rajini Sreenivasan
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute and Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brittany Croft
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute and Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Xin Song
- Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Andrew Sinclair
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute and Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Weiss
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Peter Koopman
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emanuele Pelosi
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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11
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Li D, Xu W, Wang X, Dang Y, Xu L, Lu G, Chan WY, Leung PC, Zhao S, Qin Y. lncRNA DDGC participates in premature ovarian insufficiency through regulating RAD51 and WT1. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 26:1092-1106. [PMID: 34786213 PMCID: PMC8571528 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The list of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that participate in the function of ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) is rapidly expanding, but the mechanisms through which lncRNAs regulate GC function are not yet fully understood. Here, we recognized a minimally expressed lncRNA RP4-545C24.1 (which we named DDGC) in GCs from patients with biochemical premature ovarian insufficiency (bPOI). We further explored the role of lncRNA DDGC in GC function and its contribution to the development of bPOI. Mechanistically, silencing DDGC downregulated RAD51 by competitively binding with miR-589-5p, and this resulted in significant inhibition of DNA damage repair capacity. In addition, decreased expression of DDGC promoted ubiquitin-mediated degradation of Wilms tumor 1 (WT1) protein through interactions with heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), which led to aberrant differentiation of GCs. Moreover, DDGC was able to ameliorate the etoposide-induced DNA damage and apoptosis in vivo. Taken together, these findings provide new insights into the contribution of lncRNAs in POI pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duan Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Weiwei Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Yujie Dang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Lan Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Gang Lu
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wai-Yee Chan
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Peter C.K. Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Shidou Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Correspondence: Yingying Qin, PhD, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China.
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12
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Li M, Xue L, Xu W, Liu P, Li F. rno-miR-128-3p promotes apoptosis in rat granulosa cells (GCs) induced by norepinephrine through Wilms tumor 1 (WT1). In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2021; 57:775-785. [PMID: 34554376 PMCID: PMC8585816 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-021-00609-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The mechanism related to ovarian follicular is complex, which has not been fully elucidated. Abundant reports have confirmed that the ovarian function development is closely related to sympathetic innervation. As one of the major neurotransmitters, norepinephrine (NE) is considered an effective regulator of ovarian functions like granulosa cell (GC) apoptosis. However, the mechanism between NE and GC apoptosis in rat is still unclear. In our study, GCs were isolated and cultured in vitro with NE treatment. The apoptosis of GCs was facilitated by NE. Wilms tumor 1 (WT1) was found to be significantly downregulated in GCs after NE treatment, and overexpression of WT1 repressed apoptosis in rat GCs induced by NE. rno-miR-128-3p was found to be significantly enhanced by NE in GCs, and inhibition of rno-miR-128-3p repressed apoptosis in rat GCs induced by NE. Mechanistically, rno-miR-128-3p interacted with WT1 and repressed its expression. In summary, inhibition of rno-miR-128-3p may enhance WT1 expression, and then repress NE-induced apoptosis in rat GCs. Our research may provide a new insight for the improvement of ovarian follicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Lian Yungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiang Su Province, Lianyungang, 222000, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Xue
- Pharmacy Department, Shandong Qingdao Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, No. 3 Jiaxiang Road, South District, Qingdao City, Shandong Province, 266002, China
| | - Weibin Xu
- Pharmacy Department, Gaoqing County People's Hospital, No.11 Qingcheng Road, Gaoqing County, Zibo City, 256300, Shandong Province, China
| | - Pingping Liu
- Pharmacy Department, Liaocheng Chiping District People's Hospital, No. 1057 Culture Road, Chiping County, Liaocheng City, 252100, Shandong Province, China
| | - Feng Li
- Drug Dispensing Department, Zibo Central Hospital, No. 54 The Communist Youth League West Road, Zhangdian District, Zibo City, 255000, Shandong Province, China.
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13
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Estermann MA, Major AT, Smith CA. Genetic Regulation of Avian Testis Development. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1459. [PMID: 34573441 PMCID: PMC8470383 DOI: 10.3390/genes12091459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
As in other vertebrates, avian testes are the site of spermatogenesis and androgen production. The paired testes of birds differentiate during embryogenesis, first marked by the development of pre-Sertoli cells in the gonadal primordium and their condensation into seminiferous cords. Germ cells become enclosed in these cords and enter mitotic arrest, while steroidogenic Leydig cells subsequently differentiate around the cords. This review describes our current understanding of avian testis development at the cell biology and genetic levels. Most of this knowledge has come from studies on the chicken embryo, though other species are increasingly being examined. In chicken, testis development is governed by the Z-chromosome-linked DMRT1 gene, which directly or indirectly activates the male factors, HEMGN, SOX9 and AMH. Recent single cell RNA-seq has defined cell lineage specification during chicken testis development, while comparative studies point to deep conservation of avian testis formation. Lastly, we identify areas of future research on the genetics of avian testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Craig Allen Smith
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; (M.A.E.); (A.T.M.)
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14
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Cen C, Chen M, Zhou J, Zhang L, Duo S, Jiang L, Hou X, Gao F. Inactivation of Wt1 causes pre-granulosa cell to steroidogenic cell transformation and defect of ovary development†. Biol Reprod 2021; 103:60-69. [PMID: 32301970 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Wt1 gene encodes a nuclear transcription factor which is specifically expressed in ovarian granulosa cells and testicular Sertoli cells. Our previous studies demonstrated that Wt1 is required for the lineage specification of supporting cells and inactivation of Wt1 results in Sertoli cells to Leydig-like cells transformation. To test whether Wt1 is also involved in lineage maintenance of granulosa cells during ovary development, Wt1 was specifically deleted in pre-granulosa cells using Foxl2-cre. We found that the female Wt1-/flox; Foxl2-cre mice were infertile with atrophic ovaries and no growing follicles with multiple layers of granulosa cells were observed. A large number of 3β-HSD-positive steroidogenic cells were detected in ovaries of Wt1-/flox; Foxl2-cre mice during embryonic stage and these cells were derived from Foxl2-expressing pre-granulosa cells. The quantitative results showed the expression of granulosa cell marker genes (Foxl2, Follistatin) was downregulated and steroidogenic cell marker genes (3β-HSD, Cyp11a1, Star and Sf1) was dramatically increased in Wt1-/flox; Foxl2-cre ovaries. We also found that the meiosis of germ cells in Wt1-/flox; Foxl2-cre ovaries was delayed but not arrested. This study demonstrates that Wt1 is required for lineage maintenance of granulosa cells and inactivation of Wt1 results in pre-granulosa cells to steroidogenic cells transformation which in turn causes the defect of ovary development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changhuo Cen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China, 563000
| | - Min Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China, 100101
| | - Jingjing Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China, 100101.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lianjun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China, 100101.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shuguang Duo
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China, 100101
| | - Lin Jiang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China, 563000
| | - Xiaohui Hou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China, 563000
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China, 100101.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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15
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Bizzarri C, Antonella Giannone G, Gervasoni J, Benedetti S, Albanese F, Dello Strologo L, Guzzo I, Mucciolo M, Diomedi Camassei F, Emma F, Cappa M, Porzio O. Unusual Presentation of Denys-Drash Syndrome in a Girl with Undisclosed Consumption of Biotin. J Clin Res Pediatr Endocrinol 2021; 13:347-352. [PMID: 32840097 PMCID: PMC8388055 DOI: 10.4274/jcrpe.galenos.2020.2020.0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a 46,XX girl with Denys-Drash syndrome, showing both kidney disease and genital abnormalities, in whom a misdiagnosis of hyperandrogenism was made. A 15 year-old girl was affected by neonatal nephrotic syndrome, progressing to end stage kidney failure. Hair loss and voice deepening were noted during puberty. Pelvic ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging showed utero-tubaric agenesis, vaginal atresia and urogenital sinus, with inguinal gonads. Gonadotrophin and estradiol levels were normal, but testosterone was increased up to 285 ng/dL at Tanner stage 3. She underwent prophylactic gonadectomy. Histopathology reported fibrotic ovarian cortex containing numerous follicles in different maturation stages and rudimental remnants of Fallopian tubes. No features of gonadoblastoma were detected. Unexpectedly, testosterone levels were elevated four months after gonadectomy (157 ng/dL). Recent medical history revealed chronic daily comsumption of high dose biotin, as a therapeutic support for hair loss. Laboratory immunoassay instruments used streptavidin-biotin interaction to detect hormones and, in competitive immunoassays, high concentrations of biotin can result in false high results. Total testosterone, measured using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, was within reference intervals. Similar testosterone levels were detected on repeat immunoassay two weeks after biotin uptake interruption. Discordance between clinical presentation and biochemical results in patients taking biotin, should raise the suspicion of erroneous results. Improved communication among patients, health care providers, and laboratory professionals is required concerning the likelihood of biotin interference with immunoassays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Bizzarri
- IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Unit of Endocrinology, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Jacopo Gervasoni
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS; Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabina Benedetti
- IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Unit of Medical Laboratory, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Albanese
- IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Unit of Medical Laboratory, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Dello Strologo
- IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Units of Nephrology and Dialysis, Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Guzzo
- IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Units of Nephrology and Dialysis, Rome, Italy
| | - Mafalda Mucciolo
- IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Medical Genetics Laboratory, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Emma
- IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Units of Nephrology and Dialysis, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Cappa
- IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Unit of Endocrinology, Rome, Italy
| | - Ottavia Porzio
- IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Unit of Medical Laboratory, Rome, Italy,University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Department of Experimental Medicine, Rome, Italy,* Address for Correspondence: IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Unit of Medical Laboratory; University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Department of Experimental Medicine, Rome, Italy Phone: +390668592210 E-mail:
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16
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Chen M, Dong F, Chen M, Shen Z, Wu H, Cen C, Cui X, Bao S, Gao F. PRMT5 regulates ovarian follicle development by facilitating Wt1 translation. eLife 2021; 10:68930. [PMID: 34448450 PMCID: PMC8483736 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (Prmt5) is the major type II enzyme responsible for symmetric dimethylation of arginine. Here, we found that PRMT5 was expressed at high level in ovarian granulosa cells of growing follicles. Inactivation of Prmt5 in granulosa cells resulted in aberrant follicle development and female infertility. In Prmt5-knockout mice, follicle development was arrested with disorganized granulosa cells in which WT1 expression was dramatically reduced and the expression of steroidogenesis-related genes was significantly increased. The premature differentiated granulosa cells were detached from oocytes and follicle structure was disrupted. Mechanism studies revealed that Wt1 expression was regulated by PRMT5 at the protein level. PRMT5 facilitated IRES-dependent translation of Wt1 mRNA by methylating HnRNPA1. Moreover, the upregulation of steroidogenic genes in Prmt5-deficient granulosa cells was repressed by Wt1 overexpression. These results demonstrate that PRMT5 participates in granulosa cell lineage maintenance by inducing Wt1 expression. Our study uncovers a new role of post-translational arginine methylation in granulosa cell differentiation and follicle development. Infertility in women can be caused by many factors, such as defects in the ovaries. An important part of the ovaries for fertility are internal structures called follicles, which house early forms of egg cells. A follicle grows and develops until the egg is finally released from the ovary into the fallopian tube, where the egg can then be fertilised. In the follicle, an egg is surrounded by other types of cells, such as granulosa cells. The egg and neighbouring cells must maintain healthy contacts with each other, otherwise the follicle can stop growing and developing, potentially causing infertility. The development of a follicle depends on an array of proteins. For example, the transcription factor WT1 controls protein levels by activating other genes and their proteins and is produced in high numbers by granulosa cells at the beginning of follicle development. Although WT1 levels dip towards the later stages of follicle development, insufficient levels can lead to defects. So far, it has been unclear how levels of WT1in granulose cells are regulated. Chen, Dong et al. studied mouse follicles to reveal more about the role of WT1 in follicle development. The researchers measured protein levels in mouse granulosa cells as the follicles developed, and discovered elevated levels of PRMT5, a protein needed for egg cells to form and survive in the follicles. Blocking granulosa cells from producing PRMT5 led to abnormal follicles and infertility in mice. Moreover, mice that had been engineered to lack PRMT5 developed abnormal follicles, where the egg and surrounding granulosa cells were not attached to each other, and the granulosa cells had low levels of WT1. Further experiments revealed that PRMT5 controlled WT1 levels by adding small molecules called methyl groups to another regulatory protein called HnRNPA1. The addition of methyl groups to genes or their proteins is an important modification that takes place in many processes within a cell. Chen, Dong et al. reveal that this activity also plays a key role in maintaining healthy follicle development in mice, and that PRMT5 is necessary for controlling WT1. Identifying all of the intricate mechanism involved in regulating follicle development is important for finding ways to combat infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fangfang Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Min Chen
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhiming Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haowei Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Changhuo Cen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuhong Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shilai Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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17
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Shi M, Whorton AE, Sekulovski N, Paquet M, MacLean JA, Song Y, Van Dyke T, Hayashi K. Inactivation of TRP53, PTEN, RB1, and/or CDH1 in the ovarian surface epithelium induces ovarian cancer transformation and metastasis. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:1055-1064. [PMID: 31930396 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OvCa) remains the most common cause of death from gynecological malignancies. Genetically engineered mouse models have been used to study initiation, origin, progression, and/or mechanisms of OvCa. Based on the clinical features of OvCa, we examined a quadruple combination of pathway perturbations including PTEN, TRP53, RB1, and/or CDH1. To characterize the cancer-promoting events in the ovarian surface epithelium (OSE), Amhr2cre/+ mice were used to ablate floxed alleles of Pten, Trp53, and Cdh1, which were crossed with TgK19GT121 mice to inactivate RB1 in KRT19-expressing cells. Inactivation of PTEN, TRP53, and RB1 with or without CDH1 led to the development of type I low-grade OvCa with enlarged serous papillary carcinomas and some high-grade serous carcinomas (HGSCs) in older mice. Initiation of epithelial hyperplasia and micropapillary carcinoma started earlier at 1 month in the triple mutations of Trp53, Pten, and Rb1 mice as compared to 2 months in quadruple mutations of Trp53, Pten, Rb1, and Cdh1 mice, whereas both genotypes eventually developed enlarged proliferating tumors that invaded into the ovary at 3-4 months. Mice with triple and quadruple mutations developed HGSC and/or metastatic tumors, which disseminated into the peritoneal cavity at 4-6 months. In summary, inactivation of PTEN, TRP53, and RB1 initiates OvCa from the OSE. Additional ablation of CDH1 further increased persistence of tumor dissemination and ascites fluid accumulation enhancing peritoneal metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxin Shi
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
| | - Allison E Whorton
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
| | - Nikola Sekulovski
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
| | - Marilène Paquet
- Departement de Pathologie et de Microbiologie, Université de Montreal, St-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - James A MacLean
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
| | - Yurong Song
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Terry Van Dyke
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Kanako Hayashi
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
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18
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Estermann MA, Hirst CE, Major AT, Smith CA. The homeobox gene TGIF1 is required for chicken ovarian cortical development and generation of the juxtacortical medulla. Development 2021; 148:dev199646. [PMID: 34387307 PMCID: PMC8406534 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
During early embryogenesis in amniotic vertebrates, the gonads differentiate into either ovaries or testes. The first cell lineage to differentiate gives rise to the supporting cells: Sertoli cells in males and pre-granulosa cells in females. These key cell types direct the differentiation of the other cell types in the gonad, including steroidogenic cells. The gonadal surface epithelium and the interstitial cell populations are less well studied, and little is known about their sexual differentiation programs. Here, we show the requirement of the homeobox transcription factor gene TGIF1 for ovarian development in the chicken embryo. TGIF1 is expressed in the two principal ovarian somatic cell populations: the cortex and the pre-granulosa cells of the medulla. TGIF1 expression is associated with an ovarian phenotype in estrogen-mediated sex reversal experiments. Targeted misexpression and gene knockdown indicate that TGIF1 is required, but not sufficient, for proper ovarian cortex formation. In addition, TGIF1 is identified as the first known regulator of juxtacortical medulla development. These findings provide new insights into chicken ovarian differentiation and development, specifically cortical and juxtacortical medulla formation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Craig Allen Smith
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton VIC 3800, Australia
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19
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Jia GX, Lin Z, Yan RG, Wang GW, Zhang XN, Li C, Tong MH, Yang QE. WTAP Function in Sertoli Cells Is Essential for Sustaining the Spermatogonial Stem Cell Niche. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 15:968-982. [PMID: 33053361 PMCID: PMC7566211 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are the major component of the spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) niche; however, regulatory mechanisms in Sertoli cells that dictate SSC fate decisions remain largely unknown. Here we revealed features of the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) mRNA modification in Sertoli cells and demonstrated the functions of WTAP, the key subunit of the m6A methyltransferase complex in spermatogenesis. m6A-sequencing analysis identified 21,909 m6A sites from 15,365 putative m6A-enriched transcripts within 6,122 genes, including many Sertoli cell-specific genes. Conditional deletion of Wtap in Sertoli cells resulted in sterility and the progressive loss of the SSC population. RNA sequencing and ribosome nascent-chain complex-bound mRNA sequencing analyses suggested that alternative splicing events of transcripts encoding SSC niche factors were sharply altered and translation of these transcripts were severely dysregulated by Wtap deletion. Collectively, this study uncovers a novel regulatory mechanism of the SSC niche and provide insights into molecular interactions between stem cells and their cognate niches in mammals. WTAP is highly expressed in Sertoli cell and is essential in spermatogenesis Wtap knockout in Sertoli cell causes defective spermatogonial stem cell maintenance WTAP regulates transcription and translation of m6A-enriched genes in Sertoli cell
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Affiliation(s)
- Gong-Xue Jia
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, China; Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Ecological Genomics, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Zhen Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Rong-Ge Yan
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guo-Wen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Na Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cen Li
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Tibetan Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Ming-Han Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi-En Yang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Ecological Genomics, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, China.
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20
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Zheng W, Wu F, Fu K, Sun G, Sun G, Li X, Jiang W, Cao H, Wang H, Tang W. Emerging Mechanisms and Treatment Progress on Liver Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer. Onco Targets Ther 2021; 14:3013-3036. [PMID: 33986602 PMCID: PMC8110277 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s301371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is currently the third largest malignant tumor in the world, with high new cases and high mortality. Metastasis is one of the most common causes of death of colorectal cancer, of which liver metastasis is the most fatal. Since the beginning of the Human Genome Project in 2001, people have gradually recognized the 3 billion base pairs that make up the human genome, of which only about 1.5% of the nucleic acid sequences are used for protein coding, including proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. A large number of differences in the expression of proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes have also been found in the study of colorectal cancer, which proves that they are also actively involved in the progression of colorectal cancer and promote the occurrence of liver metastasis. Except for 1.5% of the coding sequence, the rest of the nucleic acid sequence does not encode any protein, which is called non-coding RNA. With the deepening of research, genome sequences without protein coding potential that were originally considered “junk sequences” may have important biological functions. Many years of studies have found that a large number of abnormal expression of ncRNA in colorectal cancer liver metastasis, indicating that ncRNA plays an important role in it. To explore the role and mechanism of these coding sequences and non-coding RNA in liver metastasis of colorectal cancer is very important for the early diagnosis and treatment of liver metastasis of colorectal cancer. This article reviews the coding genes and ncRNA that have been found in the study of liver metastasis of colorectal cancer in recent years, as well as the mechanisms that have been identified or are still under study, as well as the clinical treatment of liver metastasis of colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wubin Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Kai Fu
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangshun Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoqiang Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Li
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongyong Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanjin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiwei Tang
- Hepatobiliary/Liver Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Living Donor Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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21
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Estermann MA, Williams S, Hirst CE, Roly ZY, Serralbo O, Adhikari D, Powell D, Major AT, Smith CA. Insights into Gonadal Sex Differentiation Provided by Single-Cell Transcriptomics in the Chicken Embryo. Cell Rep 2021; 31:107491. [PMID: 32268081 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.03.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the genetic triggers for gonadal sex differentiation vary across species, the cell biology of gonadal development was long thought to be largely conserved. Here, we present a comprehensive analysis of gonadal sex differentiation, using single-cell sequencing in the embryonic chicken gonad during sexual differentiation. The data show that chicken embryonic-supporting cells do not derive from the coelomic epithelium, in contrast to other vertebrates studied. Instead, they derive from a DMRT1+/PAX2+/WNT4+/OSR1+ mesenchymal cell population. We find a greater complexity of gonadal cell types than previously thought, including the identification of two distinct sub-populations of Sertoli cells in developing testes and derivation of embryonic steroidogenic cells from a differentiated supporting-cell lineage. Altogether, these results indicate that, just as the genetic trigger for sex differs across vertebrate groups, cell lineage specification in the gonad may also vary substantially.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Andres Estermann
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Sarah Williams
- Monash Bioinformatics Platform, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Claire Elizabeth Hirst
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI), Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Zahida Yesmin Roly
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Olivier Serralbo
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI), Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Deepak Adhikari
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - David Powell
- Monash Bioinformatics Platform, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Andrew Thomas Major
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Craig Allen Smith
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.
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22
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Ma X, Zhang Q, Du J, Tang J, Tan B. Integrated Analysis of ceRNA Regulatory Network Associated With Tumor Stage in Cervical Cancer. Front Genet 2021; 12:618753. [PMID: 33833775 PMCID: PMC8021857 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.618753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To analyze the abnormally expressed genes involved in cervical cancer occurrence and development. Materials and Methods Integrated bioinformatics methods were used to analyze differentially expressed (DE) RNAs, including mRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs), and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), in stage I, II, III, and IV cervical cancer patients from the TCGA database to fully reveal the dynamic changes caused by cervical cancer. Results First, DE RNAs in cervical cancer tissues from stage I, II, III, and IV patients and normal cervical tissues were identified and divided into different profiles. Several DE RNA profiles were down-regulated or up-regulated in stage I, III, and IV patients. GO and KEGG analysis of DE mRNA profile 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 22 which were significantly down-regulated or up-regulated showed that DE mRNAs are involved in cell division, DNA replication, cell adhesion, the positive and negative regulation of RNA polymerase ll promoter transcription. Besides, DE RNA profiles with significant differences in patient stages were analyzed to perform a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory network of lncRNA, miRNA, and mRNA. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of DE mRNAs in the ceRNA regulatory network was also constructed. The network had nine central genes (up-regulated genes: CDKN2A, GSK3B, BIRC5, CYCS, MAD2L1; down-regulated genes: PTEN, FOXO3, CCND2, TGFBR2). Survival analysis found that 5 lncRNAs, 9 mRNAs, and 4 miRNAs can be used as prognostic indicators of cervical cancer. Finally, combined with cluster analysis results, we further screened 2 DE RNAs (AMZ2P1 and HDAC5) using clinical samples, suggesting that AMZ2P1, and HDAC5 may act as diagnostic biomarkers for the development of cervical cancer. Conclusion This research provides new effective targets and reliable biological markers for the diagnosis and prognosis of cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojie Ma
- North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China.,Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Jiayu Du
- North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Jie Tang
- North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Bangxian Tan
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
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23
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Wang X, Meng K, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Lin F, Liu X, Zhang Y, Quan F. Wilms' tumor (WT1) (±KTS) variants decreases the progesterone secretion of bovine ovarian theca cells. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2021; 74:106521. [PMID: 32739762 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Wilms' tumor gene WT1 encodes a nuclear transcriptional factor, which has been shown to regulate granulosa cell steroidogenesis in bovine; however, it is not known whether the functions of theca cells are regulated by WT1. Here, we determined the effects of this gene on theca cell proliferation, apoptosis, and steroidogenesis in vitro. In cultured bovine theca cells, the downregulation of WT1 increased the secretion of progesterone but had no effect on proliferation and apoptosis. WT1 includes the variants WT1(+KTS) and WT1(-KTS), which differ by 3 amino acids KTS (lysine, threonine, and serine). WT1(±KTS) upregulation increased the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of STAR and CYP17A1 and decreased the progesterone secretion and CYP11A1 mRNA expression. In contrast to WT1(+KTS), WT1(-KTS) upregulation also decreased the mRNA expression of 3β-HSD. In both variants, WT1(-KTS) has more obvious effects. In conclusion, WT1 can decrease progesterone secretion, likely due in part to the inhibition of CYP11A1 and 3β-HSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - K Meng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Y Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Y Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - F Lin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - X Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Y Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
| | - F Quan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
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24
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Estermann MA, Major AT, Smith CA. Gonadal Sex Differentiation: Supporting Versus Steroidogenic Cell Lineage Specification in Mammals and Birds. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:616387. [PMID: 33392204 PMCID: PMC7775416 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.616387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The gonads of vertebrate embryos are unique among organs because they have a developmental choice; ovary or testis formation. Given the importance of proper gonad formation for sexual development and reproduction, considerable research has been conducted over the years to elucidate the genetic and cellular mechanisms of gonad formation and sexual differentiation. While the molecular trigger for gonadal sex differentiation into ovary of testis can vary among vertebrates, from egg temperature to sex-chromosome linked master genes, the downstream molecular pathways are largely conserved. The cell biology of gonadal formation and differentiation has long thought to also be conserved. However, recent discoveries point to divergent mechanisms of gonad formation, at least among birds and mammals. In this mini-review, we provide an overview of cell lineage allocation during gonadal sex differentiation in the mouse model, focusing on the key supporting and steroidogenic cells and drawing on recent insights provided by single cell RNA-sequencing. We compare this data with emerging information in the chicken model. We highlight surprising differences in cell lineage specification between species and identify gaps in our current understanding of the cell biology underlying gonadogenesis.
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25
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Li L, Yang R, Yin C, Kee K. Studying human reproductive biology through single-cell analysis and in vitro differentiation of stem cells into germ cell-like cells. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:670-688. [PMID: 32464645 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of human reproductive development has been limited by the scarcity of human samples and ethical constraints. Recently, in vitro differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into germ cells and single-cell analyses have opened new avenues to directly study human germ cells and identify unique mechanisms in human reproductive development. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The goal of this review is to collate novel findings and insightful discoveries with these new methodologies, aiming at introducing researchers and clinicians to the use of these tools to study human reproductive biology and develop treatments for infertility. SEARCH METHODS PubMed was used to search articles and reviews with the following main keywords: in vitro differentiation, human stem cells, single-cell analysis, spermatogenesis, oogenesis, germ cells and other key terms related to these subjects. The search period included all publications from 2000 until now. OUTCOMES Single-cell analyses of human gonads have identified many important gene markers at different developmental stages and in subpopulations of cells. To validate the functional roles of these gene markers, researchers have used the in vitro differentiation of human pluripotent cells into germ cells and confirmed that some genetic requirements are unique in human germ cells and are not conserved in mouse models. Moreover, transcriptional regulatory networks and the interaction of germ and somatic cells in gonads were elucidated in these studies. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Single-cell analyses allow researchers to identify gene markers and potential regulatory networks using limited clinical samples. On the other hand, in vitro differentiation methods provide clinical researchers with tools to examine these newly identify gene markers and study the causative effects of mutations previously associated with infertility. Combining these two methodologies, researchers can identify gene markers and networks which are essential and unique in human reproductive development, thereby producing more accurate diagnostic tools for assessing reproductive disorders and developing treatments for infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Risako Yang
- Department of Biology, Colgate University, Hamilton, NY 13346, USA
| | - Chenghong Yin
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Kehkooi Kee
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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26
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Ma X, Cen S, Wang L, Zhang C, Wu L, Tian X, Wu Q, Li X, Wang X. Genome-wide identification and comparison of differentially expressed profiles of miRNAs and lncRNAs with associated ceRNA networks in the gonads of Chinese soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis. BMC Genomics 2020; 21:443. [PMID: 32600250 PMCID: PMC7322844 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-020-06826-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The gonad is the major factor affecting animal reproduction. The regulatory mechanism of the expression of protein-coding genes involved in reproduction still remains to be elucidated. Increasing evidence has shown that ncRNAs play key regulatory roles in gene expression in many life processes. The roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in reproduction have been investigated in some species. However, the regulatory patterns of miRNA and lncRNA in the sex biased expression of protein coding genes remains to be elucidated. In this study, we performed an integrated analysis of miRNA, messenger RNA (mRNA), and lncRNA expression profiles to explore their regulatory patterns in the female ovary and male testis of Pelodiscus sinensis. Results We identified 10,446 mature miRNAs, 20,414 mRNAs and 28,500 lncRNAs in the ovaries and testes, and 633 miRNAs, 11,319 mRNAs, and 10,495 lncRNAs showed differential expression. A total of 2814 target genes were identified for miRNAs. The predicted target genes of these differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs and lncRNAs included abundant genes related to reproductive regulation. Furthermore, we found that 189 DEmiRNAs and 5408 DElncRNAs showed sex-specific expression. Of these, 3 DEmiRNAs and 917 DElncRNAs were testis-specific, and 186 DEmiRNAs and 4491 DElncRNAs were ovary-specific. We further constructed complete endogenous lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks using bioinformatics, including 103 DEmiRNAs, 636 DEmRNAs, and 1622 DElncRNAs. The target genes for the differentially expressed miRNAs and lncRNAs included abundant genes involved in gonadal development, including Wt1, Creb3l2, Gata4, Wnt2, Nr5a1, Hsd17, Igf2r, H2afz, Lin52, Trim71, Zar1, and Jazf1. Conclusions In animals, miRNA and lncRNA as master regulators regulate reproductive processes by controlling the expression of mRNAs. Considering their importance, the identified miRNAs, lncRNAs, and their targets in P. sinensis might be useful for studying the molecular processes involved in sexual reproduction and genome editing to produce higher quality aquaculture animals. A thorough understanding of ncRNA-based cellular regulatory networks will aid in the improvement of P. sinensis reproductive traits for aquaculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Ma
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, 410128, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuangshuang Cen
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Luming Wang
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Zhang
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Limin Wu
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Tian
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Qisheng Wu
- Fisheries Research Institute of Fujian, Xiamen, Fujian, 361000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuejun Li
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaoqing Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, 410128, People's Republic of China.
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GLI3 resides at the intersection of hedgehog and androgen action to promote male sex differentiation. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008810. [PMID: 32497091 PMCID: PMC7297385 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Urogenital tract abnormalities are among the most common congenital defects in humans. Male urogenital development requires Hedgehog-GLI signaling and testicular hormones, but how these pathways interact is unclear. We found that Gli3XtJ mutant mice exhibit cryptorchidism and hypospadias due to local effects of GLI3 loss and systemic effects of testicular hormone deficiency. Fetal Leydig cells, the sole source of these hormones in developing testis, were reduced in numbers in Gli3XtJ testes, and their functional identity diminished over time. Androgen supplementation partially rescued testicular descent but not hypospadias in Gli3XtJ mutants, decoupling local effects of GLI3 loss from systemic effects of androgen insufficiency. Reintroduction of GLI3 activator (GLI3A) into Gli3XtJ testes restored expression of Hedgehog pathway and steroidogenic genes. Together, our results show a novel function for the activated form of GLI3 that translates Hedgehog signals to reinforce fetal Leydig cell identity and stimulate timely INSL3 and testosterone synthesis in the developing testis. In turn, exquisite timing and concentrations of testosterone are required to work alongside local GLI3 activity to control development of a functionally integrated male urogenital tract. Disorders in male sex differentiation (DSD) are among the most common defects in all live births, yet in many cases, pediatric patient families are reluctant to address the issue and endure lifelong consequences. Urogenital tract development, as in many organ systems, depends on exquisite timing among layers of a number of signaling pathways. Here, we show that interactions between the hedgehog and androgen signaling pathways are required for the development of internal and external male sex characteristics, but results for each tissue is distinct. This new knowledge will aid in discovering the means by which congenital malformations might occur, identify potential developmental targets that might be vulnerable to environmental exposures, and promote new ideas for how they might be prevented.
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Testis formation in XX individuals resulting from novel pathogenic variants in Wilms' tumor 1 ( WT1) gene. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:13680-13688. [PMID: 32493750 PMCID: PMC7306989 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1921676117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex determination in mammals is governed by antagonistic interactions of two genetic pathways, imbalance in which may lead to disorders/differences of sex development (DSD) in human. Among 46,XX individuals with testicular DSD (TDSD) or ovotesticular DSD (OTDSD), testicular tissue is present in the gonad. Although the testis-determining gene SRY is present in many cases, the etiology is unknown in most SRY-negative patients. We performed exome sequencing on 78 individuals with 46,XX TDSD/OTDSD of unknown genetic etiology and identified seven (8.97%) with heterozygous variants affecting the fourth zinc finger (ZF4) of Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1) (p.Ser478Thrfs*17, p.Pro481Leufs*15, p.Lys491Glu, p.Arg495Gln [x3], p.Arg495Gly). The variants were de novo in six families (P = 4.4 × 10-6), and the incidence of WT1 variants in 46,XX DSD is enriched compared to control populations (P < 1.8 × 10-4). The introduction of ZF4 mutants into a human granulosa cell line resulted in up-regulation of endogenous Sertoli cell transcripts and Wt1 Arg495Gly/Arg495Gly XX mice display masculinization of the fetal gonads. The phenotype could be explained by the ability of the mutated proteins to physically interact with and sequester a key pro-ovary factor β-CATENIN, which may lead to up-regulation of testis-specific pathway. Our data show that unlike previous association of WT1 and 46,XY DSD, ZF4 variants of WT1 are a relatively common cause of 46,XX TDSD/OTDSD. This expands the spectrum of phenotypes associated with WT1 variants and shows that the WT1 protein affecting ZF4 can function as a protestis factor in an XX chromosomal context.
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Grinspon RP, Rey RA. Molecular Characterization of XX Maleness. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20236089. [PMID: 31816857 PMCID: PMC6928850 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20236089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), secreted by the foetal testis, are responsible for the development of male reproductive organs and the regression of female anlagen. Virilization of the reproductive tract in association with the absence of Müllerian derivatives in the XX foetus implies the existence of testicular tissue, which can occur in the presence or absence of SRY. Recent advancement in the knowledge of the opposing gene cascades driving to the differentiation of the gonadal ridge into testes or ovaries during early foetal development has provided insight into the molecular explanation of XX maleness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina P. Grinspon
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, C1425EFD Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Correspondence: (R.P.G.); (R.A.R.); Tel.: +54-11-49635931 (R.P.G.)
| | - Rodolfo A. Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, C1425EFD Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Histología, Biología Celular, Embriología y Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Correspondence: (R.P.G.); (R.A.R.); Tel.: +54-11-49635931 (R.P.G.)
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Meng K, Wang X, He Y, Wang H, Xie X, Zhang Y, Quan F. Evidence that downregulation of Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1) is involved in cortical stromal cell differentiation into theca cells in adult bovine ovaries. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:1731-1740. [PMID: 31490589 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Bovine theca cells are thought to differentiate from cortical stromal cells, and ovary-derived Wilms' tumor 1+ (WT1+ ) cells are the primary source of mouse theca cells. However, it is not known whether the differentiation of cortical stromal cells is regulated by WT1. Here, we identified WT1 in the cortical stroma and theca layer of the bovine ovary and analyzed the theca cell functional markers in cortical stromal cells and theca cells; in addition, we determined the effects of this gene on the secretion of androstenedione and progesterone by cortical stromal cells and the responsiveness of cortical stromal cells to luteinizing hormone (LH) in vitro. We used quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), western blot analysis, and immunohistochemistry to discover that the cortical stroma had higher WT1 expression than the theca layer. We used RT-qPCR and ELISA analyses to determine that the cortical stromal cells had lower levels of androstenedione and progesterone secretion and LHR messenger RNA expression than the levels of the theca cells. In cultured bovine cortical stromal cells, we found that WT1 downregulation increased androstenedione and progesterone secretion but had no effect on the LH responsiveness. Notably, the increase in androstenedione and progesterone secretion was associated with an increase in 3-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase expression. In conclusion, the results suggest that WT1 is involved in the differentiation of cortical stromal cells into cells with characteristics similar to theca cells of antral follicles in adult bovine ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Meng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Xiaomei Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yuanyuan He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Hengqin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Xiaogang Xie
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Fusheng Quan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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31
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Abnormal Meiosis Initiation in Germ Cell Caused by Aberrant Differentiation of Gonad Somatic Cell. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:8030697. [PMID: 31583044 PMCID: PMC6748189 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8030697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The interaction between germ cell and somatic cell plays important roles in germ cell development. However, the exact function of gonad somatic cell in germ cell differentiation is unclear. In the present study, the function of gonad somatic cell in germ cell meiosis was examined by using mouse models with aberrant somatic cell differentiation. In Wt1R394W/R394W mice, the genital ridge is absent due to the apoptosis of coelomic epithelial cells. Interestingly, in both male and female Wt1R394W/R394W germ cells, STRA8 was detected at E12.5 and the scattered SYCP3 foci were observed at E13.5 which was consistent with control females. In Wt1-/flox; Cre-ERTM mice, Wt1 was inactivated by the injection of tamoxifen at E9.5 and the differentiation of Sertoli and granulosa cells was completely blocked. We found that most germ cells were located outside of genital ridge after Wt1 inactivation. STRA8, SYCP3, and γH2AX proteins were detected in germ cells of both male and female Wt1-/flox; Cre-ERTM gonads, whereas no thread-like SYCP3 signal was observed. Our study demonstrates that aberrant development of gonad somatic cells leads to ectopic expression of meiosis-associated genes in germ cells, but meiosis was arrested before prophase I. These results suggest that the proper differentiation of gonad somatic cells is essential for germ cell meiosis.
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Meng K, Wang X, He Y, Yang J, Wang H, Zhang Y, Quan F. The Wilms tumor gene (WT1) (+/−KTS) isoforms regulate steroidogenesis by modulating the PI3K/AKT and ERK1/2 pathways in bovine granulosa cells†. Biol Reprod 2019; 100:1344-1355. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kai Meng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xiaomei Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yuanyuan He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jiashu Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Hengqin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Fusheng Quan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Bio-Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, China
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34
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A perivascular niche for multipotent progenitors in the fetal testis. Nat Commun 2018; 9:4519. [PMID: 30375389 PMCID: PMC6207726 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-06996-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens responsible for male sexual differentiation in utero are produced by Leydig cells in the fetal testicular interstitium. Leydig cells rarely proliferate and, hence, rely on constant differentiation of interstitial progenitors to increase their number during fetal development. The cellular origins of fetal Leydig progenitors and how they are maintained remain largely unknown. Here we show that Notch-active, Nestin-positive perivascular cells in the fetal testis are a multipotent progenitor population, giving rise to Leydig cells, pericytes, and smooth muscle cells. When vasculature is disrupted, perivascular progenitor cells fail to be maintained and excessive Leydig cell differentiation occurs, demonstrating that blood vessels are a critical component of the niche that maintains interstitial progenitor cells. Additionally, our data strongly supports a model in which fetal Leydig cell differentiation occurs by at least two different means, with each having unique progenitor origins and distinct requirements for Notch signaling to maintain the progenitor population. Leydig cells are steroidogenic cells in the testes and produce the androgens required for male development and spermatogenesis. Here the authors show that a multipotent progenitor population producing Leydig cells, pericytes and smooth muscle cells is maintained in a perivascular niche within the mouse fetal testis.
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35
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Gomes NL, de Paula LC, Silva JM, Silva TE, Lerário AM, Nishi MY, Batista RL, Faria Júnior JAD, Moraes D, Costa EM, Hemesath TP, Guaragna‐Filho G, Leite JC, Carvalho CG, Domenice S, Costa EC, Mendonca BB. A 46,XX testicular disorder of sex development caused by a Wilms' tumour Factor‐1 (
WT1
) pathogenic variant. Clin Genet 2018; 95:172-176. [DOI: 10.1111/cge.13459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia L. Gomes
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42Hospital das Clínicas, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo Brazil
| | - Leila C.P. de Paula
- Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Programa de Atendimento às Desordens do Desenvolvimento Sexual (PADS), Unidade de Desordens do Desenvolvimento Sexual Brazil, UFRGS Rio Grande do Sul Brazil
| | - Juliana M. Silva
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42Hospital das Clínicas, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo Brazil
| | - Thatiana E. Silva
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42Hospital das Clínicas, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo Brazil
| | - Antônio M. Lerário
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and DiabetesUniversity of Michigan Ann Arbor Michigan
- Laboratório de Sequenciamento em Larga Escala (SELA)Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo São Paulo Brazil
| | - Mirian Y. Nishi
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42Hospital das Clínicas, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo Brazil
- Laboratório de Sequenciamento em Larga Escala (SELA)Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo São Paulo Brazil
| | - Rafael L. Batista
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42Hospital das Clínicas, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo Brazil
| | - José A. D. Faria Júnior
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42Hospital das Clínicas, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo Brazil
| | - Daniela Moraes
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42Hospital das Clínicas, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo Brazil
| | - Elaine M.F. Costa
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42Hospital das Clínicas, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo Brazil
| | - Tatiana P. Hemesath
- Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Programa de Atendimento às Desordens do Desenvolvimento Sexual (PADS), Unidade de Desordens do Desenvolvimento Sexual Brazil, UFRGS Rio Grande do Sul Brazil
| | - Guilherme Guaragna‐Filho
- Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Programa de Atendimento às Desordens do Desenvolvimento Sexual (PADS), Unidade de Desordens do Desenvolvimento Sexual Brazil, UFRGS Rio Grande do Sul Brazil
| | - Júlio C.L. Leite
- Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Programa de Atendimento às Desordens do Desenvolvimento Sexual (PADS), Unidade de Desordens do Desenvolvimento Sexual Brazil, UFRGS Rio Grande do Sul Brazil
| | - Clarissa G. Carvalho
- Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Programa de Atendimento às Desordens do Desenvolvimento Sexual (PADS), Unidade de Desordens do Desenvolvimento Sexual Brazil, UFRGS Rio Grande do Sul Brazil
| | - Sorahia Domenice
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42Hospital das Clínicas, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo Brazil
| | - Eduardo C. Costa
- Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Programa de Atendimento às Desordens do Desenvolvimento Sexual (PADS), Unidade de Desordens do Desenvolvimento Sexual Brazil, UFRGS Rio Grande do Sul Brazil
| | - Berenice B. Mendonca
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42Hospital das Clínicas, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo Brazil
- Laboratório de Sequenciamento em Larga Escala (SELA)Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo São Paulo Brazil
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Mesothelial to mesenchyme transition as a major developmental and pathological player in trunk organs and their cavities. Commun Biol 2018; 1:170. [PMID: 30345394 PMCID: PMC6191446 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-018-0180-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The internal organs embedded in the cavities are lined by an epithelial monolayer termed the mesothelium. The mesothelium is increasingly implicated in driving various internal organ pathologies, as many of the normal embryonic developmental pathways acting in mesothelial cells, such as those regulating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, also drive disease progression in adult life. Here, we summarize observations from different animal models and organ systems that collectively point toward a central role of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in driving tissue fibrosis, acute scarring, and cancer metastasis. Thus, drugs targeting pathways of mesothelium’s transition may have broad therapeutic benefits in patients suffering from these diseases. Tim Koopmans and Yuval Rinkevich review recent findings linking the mesothelium’s embryonic programs that drive epithelial-to-mesenchyme transition with adult pathologies, such as fibrosis, acute scarring, and cancer metastasis. They highlight new avenues for drug development that would target pathways of the mesothelium’s mesenchymal transition.
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Rotgers E, Jørgensen A, Yao HHC. At the Crossroads of Fate-Somatic Cell Lineage Specification in the Fetal Gonad. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:739-759. [PMID: 29771299 PMCID: PMC6173476 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The reproductive endocrine systems are vastly different between males and females. This sexual dimorphism of the endocrine milieu originates from sex-specific differentiation of the somatic cells in the gonads during fetal life. Most gonadal somatic cells arise from the adrenogonadal primordium. After separation of the adrenal and gonadal primordia, the gonadal somatic cells initiate sex-specific differentiation during gonadal sex determination with the specification of the supporting cell lineages: Sertoli cells in the testis vs granulosa cells in the ovary. The supporting cell lineages then facilitate the differentiation of the steroidogenic cell lineages, Leydig cells in the testis and theca cells in the ovary. Proper differentiation of these cell types defines the somatic cell environment that is essential for germ cell development, hormone production, and establishment of the reproductive tracts. Impairment of lineage specification and function of gonadal somatic cells can lead to disorders of sexual development (DSDs) in humans. Human DSDs and processes for gonadal development have been successfully modeled using genetically modified mouse models. In this review, we focus on the fate decision processes from the initial stage of formation of the adrenogonadal primordium in the embryo to the maintenance of the somatic cell identities in the gonads when they become fully differentiated in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmi Rotgers
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Research and Research Training Center in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Humphrey Hung-Chang Yao
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
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38
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Yang Y, Workman S, Wilson M. The molecular pathways underlying early gonadal development. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 62:JME-17-0314. [PMID: 30042122 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The body of knowledge surrounding reproductive development spans the fields of genetics, anatomy, physiology and biomedicine, to build a comprehensive understanding of the later stages of reproductive development in humans and animal models. Despite this, there remains much to learn about the bi-potential progenitor structure that the ovary and testis arise from, known as the genital ridge (GR). This tissue forms relatively late in embryonic development and has the potential to form either the ovary or testis, which in turn produce hormones required for development of the rest of the reproductive tract. It is imperative that we understand the genetic networks underpinning GR development if we are to begin to understand abnormalities in the adult. This is particularly relevant in the contexts of disorders of sex development (DSDs) and infertility, two conditions that many individuals struggle with worldwide, with often no answers as to their aetiology. Here, we review what is known about the genetics of GR development. Investigating the genetic networks required for GR formation will not only contribute to our understanding of the genetic regulation of reproductive development, it may in turn open new avenues of investigation into reproductive abnormalities and later fertility issues in the adult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yisheng Yang
- Y Yang, Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | | | - Megan Wilson
- M Wilson , Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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39
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Carré GA, Siggers P, Xipolita M, Brindle P, Lutz B, Wells S, Greenfield A. Loss of p300 and CBP disrupts histone acetylation at the mouse Sry promoter and causes XY gonadal sex reversal. Hum Mol Genet 2018; 27:190-198. [PMID: 29145650 PMCID: PMC5886154 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddx398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
CREB-binding protein (CBP, CREBBP, KAT3A) and its closely related paralogue p300 (EP300, KAT3B), together termed p300/CBP, are histone/lysine acetyl-transferases that control gene expression by modifying chromatin-associated proteins. Here, we report roles for both of these chromatin-modifying enzymes in mouse sex determination, the process by which the embryonic gonad develops into a testis or an ovary. By targeting gene ablation to embryonic gonadal somatic cells using an inducible Cre line, we show that gonads lacking either gene exhibit major abnormalities of XY gonad development at 14.5 dpc, including partial sex reversal. Embryos lacking three out of four functional copies of p300/Cbp exhibit complete XY gonadal sex reversal and have greatly reduced expression of the key testis-determining genes Sry and Sox9. An analysis of histone acetylation at the Sry promoter in mutant gonads at 11.5 dpc shows a reduction in levels of the positive histone mark H3K27Ac. Our data suggest a role for CBP/p300 in testis determination mediated by control of histone acetylation at the Sry locus and reveal a novel element in the epigenetic control of Sry and mammalian sex determination. They also suggest possible novel causes of human disorders of sex development (DSD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenn-Aël Carré
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council, Harwell Institute, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Pam Siggers
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council, Harwell Institute, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Marilena Xipolita
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council, Harwell Institute, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Paul Brindle
- Department of Biochemistry, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Beat Lutz
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center Mainz, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Sara Wells
- Mary Lyon Centre, Medical Research Council, Harwell Institute, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Andy Greenfield
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council, Harwell Institute, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
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Kirschner KM, Sciesielski LK, Krueger K, Scholz H. Wilms tumor protein-dependent transcription of VEGF receptor 2 and hypoxia regulate expression of the testis-promoting gene Sox9 in murine embryonic gonads. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:20281-20291. [PMID: 29042436 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.816751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Wilms tumor protein 1 (WT1) has been implicated in the control of several genes in sexual development, but its function in gonad formation is still unclear. Here, we report that WT1 stimulates expression of Kdr, the gene encoding VEGF receptor 2, in murine embryonic gonads. We found that WT1 and KDR are co-expressed in Sertoli cells of the testes and somatic cells of embryonic ovaries. Vivo-morpholino-mediated WT1 knockdown decreased Kdr transcripts in cultured embryonic gonads at multiple developmental stages. Furthermore, WT1 bound to the Kdr promoter in the chromatin of embryonic testes and ovaries. Forced expression of the WT1(-KTS) isoform, which functions as a transcription factor, increased KDR mRNA levels, whereas the WT1(+KTS) isoform, which acts presumably on the post-transcriptional level, did not. ChIP indicated that WT1(-KTS), but not WT1(+KTS), binds to the KDR promoter. Treatment with the KDR tyrosine kinase inhibitor SU1498 or the KDR ligand VEGFA revealed that KDR signaling represses the testis-promoting gene Sox9 in embryonic XX gonads. WT1 knockdown abrogated the stimulatory effect of SU1498-mediated KDR inhibition on Sox9 expression. Exposure to 1% O2 to mimic the low-oxygen conditions in the embryo increased Vegfa expression but did not affect Sox9 mRNA levels in gonadal explants. However, incubation in 1% O2 in the presence of SU1498 significantly reduced Sox9 transcripts in cultured testes and increased Sox9 levels in ovaries. These findings demonstrate that both the local oxygen environment and WT1, which enhances KDR expression, contribute to sex-specific Sox9 expression in developing murine gonads.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lina K Sciesielski
- Klinik für Neonatologie, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Holger Scholz
- Institut für Vegetative Physiologie, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
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Islam R, Yoon H, Kim BS, Bae HS, Shin HR, Kim WJ, Yoon WJ, Lee YS, Woo KM, Baek JH, Ryoo HM. Blood-testis barrier integrity depends on Pin1 expression in Sertoli cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6977. [PMID: 28765625 PMCID: PMC5539286 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07229-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The conformation and function of a subset of serine and threonine-phosphorylated proteins are regulated by the prolyl isomerase Pin1 through isomerization of phosphorylated Ser/Thr-Pro bonds. Pin1 is intensely expressed in Sertoli cells, but its function in this post mitotic cell remains unclear. Our aim was to investigate the role of Pin1 in the Sertoli cells. Lack of Pin1 caused disruption of the blood-testis barrier. We next investigated if the activin pathways in the Sertoli cells were affected by lack of Pin1 through immunostaining for Smad3 protein in testis tissue. Indeed, lack of Pin1 caused reduced Smad3 expression in the testis tissue, as well as a reduction in the level of N-Cadherin, a known target of Smad3. Pin1-/- testes express Sertoli cell marker mRNAs in a pattern similar to that seen in Smad3+/- mice, except for an increase in Wt1 expression. The resulting dysregulation of N-Cadherin, connexin 43, and Wt1 targets caused by lack of Pin1 might affect the mesenchymal-epithelial balance in the Sertoli cells and perturb the blood-testis barrier. The effect of Pin1 dosage in Sertoli cells might be useful in the study of toxicant-mediated infertility, gonadal cancer, and for designing male contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabia Islam
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 110-749, Korea
| | - Heein Yoon
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 110-749, Korea
| | - Bong-Soo Kim
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 110-749, Korea
| | - Han-Sol Bae
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 110-749, Korea
| | - Hye-Rim Shin
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 110-749, Korea
| | - Woo-Jin Kim
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 110-749, Korea
| | - Won-Joon Yoon
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 110-749, Korea
| | - Yun-Sil Lee
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 110-749, Korea
| | - Kyung Mi Woo
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 110-749, Korea
| | - Jeong-Hwa Baek
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 110-749, Korea
| | - Hyun-Mo Ryoo
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 110-749, Korea.
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Rudigier LJ, Dame C, Scholz H, Kirschner KM. Ex vivo cultures combined with vivo-morpholino induced gene knockdown provide a system to assess the role of WT1 and GATA4 during gonad differentiation. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0176296. [PMID: 28426816 PMCID: PMC5398674 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0176296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonad morphogenesis relies on the correct spatiotemporal expression of a number of genes that together fulfill the differentiation of the bipotential gonad into testes or ovaries. As such, the transcription factors WT1 and GATA4 are pivotal for proper gonadal development. Here we address the contributions of GATA4 and WT1 to the sex differentiation phase in testes and ovaries. We applied an ex vivo technique for cultivating gonads in hanging droplets of media that were supplemented with vivo-morpholinos to knockdown WT1 and GATA4 either alone or in combination at the same developmental stage. We show that WT1 is equally important for both, the initial establishment and the maintenance of the sex-specific gene expression signature in testes and ovaries. We further identified Foxl2 as a novel putative downstream target gene of WT1. Moreover, knockdown of WT1 reduced mRNA levels of several molecular components of the hedgehog signaling pathway in XY gonads, whereas Gata4 vivo-morpholino treatment increased transcripts of Dhh and Ptch1 in embryonic testes. The data suggest that for its proper function, WT1 relies on the correct expression of the GATA4 protein. Furthermore, GATA4 down-regulates several ovarian promoting genes in testes, such as Ctnnb1, Fst, and Bmp2, suggesting that this repression is required for maintaining the male phenotype. In conclusion, this study provides novel insights into the role of WT1 and GATA4 during the sex differentiation phase and represents an approach that can be applied to assess other proteins with as yet unknown functions during gonadal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas J. Rudigier
- Institut für Vegetative Physiologie, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christof Dame
- Klinik für Neonatologie, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Holger Scholz
- Institut für Vegetative Physiologie, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Karin M. Kirschner
- Institut für Vegetative Physiologie, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
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