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Holmlund H, Yamauchi Y, Ruthig VA, Cocquet J, Ward MA. Return of the forgotten hero: the role of Y chromosome-encoded Zfy in male reproduction. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad025. [PMID: 37354519 PMCID: PMC10695432 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The Y-linked zinc finger gene ZFY is conserved across eutherians and is known to be a critical fertility factor in some species. The initial studies of the mouse homologues, Zfy1 and Zfy2, were performed using mice with spontaneous Y chromosome mutations and Zfy transgenes. These studies revealed that Zfy is involved in multiple processes during spermatogenesis, including removal of germ cells with unpaired chromosomes and control of meiotic sex chromosome inactivation during meiosis I, facilitating the progress of meiosis II, promoting spermiogenesis, and improving assisted reproduction outcomes. Zfy was also identified as a key gene in Y chromosome evolution, protecting this chromosome from extinction by serving as the executioner responsible for meiosis surveillance. Studies with targeted Zfy knock-outs revealed that mice lacking both homologues have severe spermatogenic defects and are infertile. Based on protein structure and in vitro assays, Zfy is expected to drive spermatogenesis as a transcriptional regulator. The combined evidence documents that the presence of at least one Zfy homologue is required for male fertility and that Zfy2 plays a more prominent role. This knowledge reinforces the importance of these factors for mouse spermatogenesis and informs our understanding of the human ZFY variants, which are homologous to the mouse Zfy1 and Zfy2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayden Holmlund
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Yasuhiro Yamauchi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Victor A Ruthig
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Julie Cocquet
- Institut Cochin, INSERM, U1016, CNRS UMR8104, Universite Paris Cite, Paris, France
| | - Monika A Ward
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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2
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Yamauchi Y, Matsumura T, Bakse J, Holmlund H, Blanchet G, Carrot E, Ikawa M, Ward MA. Loss of mouse Y chromosome gene Zfy1 and Zfy2 leads to spermatogenesis impairment, sperm defects, and infertility. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:1312-1326. [PMID: 35293998 PMCID: PMC9199016 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Using mice with Y chromosome deficiencies and supplementing Zfy transgenes, we, and others, have previously shown that the loss of Y chromosome Zfy1 and Zfy2 genes is associated with infertility and spermiogenic defects and that the addition of Zfy transgenes rescues these defects. In these past studies, the absence of Zfy was linked to the loss of other Y chromosome genes, which might have contributed to spermiogenic phenotypes. Here, we used CRISPR/Cas9 to specifically remove open reading frame of Zfy1, Zfy2, or both Zfy1 and Zfy2, and generated Zfy knockout (KO) and double knockout (DKO) mice. Zfy1 KO and Zfy2 KO mice were both fertile, but the latter had decreased litters size and sperm number, and sperm headshape abnormalities. Zfy DKO males were infertile and displayed severe spermatogenesis defects. Postmeiotic arrest largely prevented production of sperm and the few sperm that were produced all displayed gross headshape abnormalities and structural defects within head and tail. Infertility of Zfy DKO mice could be overcome by injection of spermatids or sperm directly to oocytes, and the resulting male offspring had the same spermiogenic phenotype as their fathers. The study is the first describing detailed phenotypic characterization of mice with the complete Zfy gene loss. It provides evidence supporting that the presence of at least one Zfy homolog is essential for male fertility and development of normal sperm functional in unassisted fertilization. The data also show that while the loss of Zfy1 is benign, the loss of Zfy2 is mildly detrimental for spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Yamauchi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Takafumi Matsumura
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Jackson Bakse
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Hayden Holmlund
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Genevieve Blanchet
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Emmaelle Carrot
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Monika A Ward
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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3
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Alavattam KG, Maezawa S, Andreassen PR, Namekawa SH. Meiotic sex chromosome inactivation and the XY body: a phase separation hypothesis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 79:18. [PMID: 34971404 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04075-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
In mammalian male meiosis, the heterologous X and Y chromosomes remain unsynapsed and, as a result, are subject to meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI). MSCI is required for the successful completion of spermatogenesis. Following the initiation of MSCI, the X and Y chromosomes undergo various epigenetic modifications and are transformed into a nuclear body termed the XY body. Here, we review the mechanisms underlying the initiation of two essential, sequential processes in meiotic prophase I: MSCI and XY-body formation. The initiation of MSCI is directed by the action of DNA damage response (DDR) pathways; downstream of the DDR, unique epigenetic states are established, leading to the formation of the XY body. Accumulating evidence suggests that MSCI and subsequent XY-body formation may be driven by phase separation, a physical process that governs the formation of membraneless organelles and other biomolecular condensates. Thus, here we gather literature-based evidence to explore a phase separation hypothesis for the initiation of MSCI and the formation of the XY body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kris G Alavattam
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.,Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA.,Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - So Maezawa
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Applied Biological Science, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Paul R Andreassen
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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4
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Yamazaki W, Badescu D, Tan SL, Ragoussis J, Taketo T. Effects of the Sex Chromosome Complement, XX, XO, or XY, on the Transcriptome and Development of Mouse Oocytes During Follicular Growth. Front Genet 2021; 12:792604. [PMID: 34987552 PMCID: PMC8721172 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.792604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The sex chromosome complement, XX or XY, determines sexual differentiation of the gonadal primordium into a testis or an ovary, which in turn directs differentiation of the germ cells into sperm and oocytes, respectively, in eutherian mammals. When the X monosomy or XY sex reversal occurs, XO and XY females exhibit subfertility and infertility in the mouse on the C57BL/6J genetic background, suggesting that functional germ cell differentiation requires the proper sex chromosome complement. Using these mouse models, we asked how the sex chromosome complement affects gene transcription in the oocytes during follicular growth. An oocyte accumulates cytoplasmic components such as mRNAs and proteins during follicular growth to support subsequent meiotic progression, fertilization, and early embryonic development without de novo transcription. However, how gene transcription is regulated during oocyte growth is not well understood. Our results revealed that XY oocytes became abnormal in chromatin configuration, mitochondria distribution, and de novo transcription compared to XX or XO oocytes near the end of growth phase. Therefore, we compared transcriptomes by RNA-sequencing among the XX, XO, and XY oocytes of 50–60 µm in diameter, which were still morphologically comparable. The results showed that the X chromosome dosage limited the X-linked and autosomal gene transcript levels in XO oocytes whereas many genes were transcribed from the Y chromosome and made the transcriptome in XY oocytes closer to that in XX oocytes. We then compared the transcript levels of 3 X-linked, 3 Y-linked and 2 autosomal genes in the XX, XO, and XY oocytes during the entire growth phase as well as at the end of growth phase using quantitative RT-PCR. The results indicated that the transcript levels of most genes increased with oocyte growth while largely maintaining the X chromosome dosage dependence. Near the end of growth phase, however, transcript levels of some X-linked genes did not increase in XY oocytes as much as XX or XO oocytes, rendering their levels much lower than those in XX oocytes. Thus, XY oocytes established a distinct transcriptome at the end of growth phase, which may be associated with abnormal chromatin configuration and mitochondria distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Yamazaki
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Dunarel Badescu
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill University Genome Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Seang Lin Tan
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- OriginElle Fertility Clinic and Women’s Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jiannis Ragoussis
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill University Genome Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Teruko Taketo
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Teruko Taketo,
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Lee SR, Lee TH, Song SH, Kim DS, Choi KH, Lee JH, Kim DK. Update on genetic screening and treatment for infertile men with genetic disorders in the era of assisted reproductive technology. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2021; 48:283-294. [PMID: 34875735 PMCID: PMC8651766 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2021.04476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A genetic etiology of male infertility is identified in fewer than 25% of infertile men, while 30% of infertile men lack a clear etiology, resulting in a diagnosis of idiopathic male infertility. Advances in reproductive genetics have provided insights into the mechanisms of male infertility, and a characterization of the genetic basis of male infertility may have broad implications for understanding the causes of infertility and determining the prognosis, optimal treatment, and management of couples. In a substantial proportion of patients with azoospermia, known genetic factors contribute to male infertility. Additionally, the number of identified genetic anomalies in other etiologies of male infertility is growing through advances in whole-genome amplification and next-generation sequencing. In this review, we present an up-to-date overview of the indications for appropriate genetic tests, summarize the characteristics of chromosomal and genetic diseases, and discuss the treatment of couples with genetic infertility by microdissection-testicular sperm extraction, personalized hormone therapy, and in vitro fertilization with pre-implantation genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Ryeol Lee
- Department of Urology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Tae Ho Lee
- Department of Urology, Fertility Center, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung-Hun Song
- Department of Urology, Fertility Center, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Suk Kim
- Department of Urology, Fertility Center, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Hwa Choi
- Department of Urology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Jae Ho Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Pocheon, Korea
| | - Dae Keun Kim
- Department of Urology, CHA Fertility Center Seoul Station, CHA University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Molecular Cytogenetic and Y Copy Number Analysis of a Reciprocal ECAY-ECA13 Translocation in a Stallion with Complete Meiotic Arrest. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12121892. [PMID: 34946841 PMCID: PMC8701272 DOI: 10.3390/genes12121892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a detailed molecular cytogenetic analysis of a reciprocal translocation between horse (ECA) chromosomes Y and 13 in a Friesian stallion with complete meiotic arrest and azoospermia. We use dual-color fluorescence in situ hybridization with select ECAY and ECA13 markers and show that the translocation breakpoint in ECAY is in the multicopy region and in ECA13, at the centromere. One resulting derivative chromosome, Y;13p, comprises of ECAY heterochromatin (ETSTY7 array), a small single copy and partial Y multicopy region, and ECA13p. Another derivative chromosome 13q;Y comprises of ECA13q and most of the single copy ECAY, the pseudoautosomal region and a small part of the Y multicopy region. A copy number (CN) analysis of select ECAY multicopy genes shows that the Friesian stallion has significantly (p < 0.05) reduced CNs of TSPY, ETSTY1, and ETSTY5, suggesting that the translocation may not be completely balanced, and genetic material is lost. We discuss likely meiotic behavior of abnormal chromosomes and theorize about the possible effect of the aberration on Y regulation and the progression of meiosis. The study adds a unique case to equine clinical cytogenetics and contributes to understanding the role of the Y chromosome in male meiosis.
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7
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Distinct roles of haspin in stem cell division and male gametogenesis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19901. [PMID: 34615946 PMCID: PMC8494884 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99307-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The kinase haspin phosphorylates histone H3 at threonine-3 (H3T3ph) during mitosis. H3T3ph provides a docking site for the Chromosomal Passenger Complex at the centromere, enabling correction of erratic microtubule-chromosome contacts. Although this mechanism is operational in all dividing cells, haspin-null mice do not exhibit developmental anomalies, apart from aberrant testis architecture. Investigating this problem, we show here that mouse embryonic stem cells that lack or overexpress haspin, albeit prone to chromosome misalignment during metaphase, can still divide, expand and differentiate. RNA sequencing reveals that haspin dosage affects severely the expression levels of several genes that are involved in male gametogenesis. Consistent with a role in testis-specific expression, H3T3ph is detected not only in mitotic spermatogonia and meiotic spermatocytes, but also in non-dividing cells, such as haploid spermatids. Similarly to somatic cells, the mark is erased in the end of meiotic divisions, but re-installed during spermatid maturation, subsequent to methylation of histone H3 at lysine-4 (H3K4me3) and arginine-8 (H3R8me2). These serial modifications are particularly enriched in chromatin domains containing histone H3 trimethylated at lysine-27 (H3K27me3), but devoid of histone H3 trimethylated at lysine-9 (H3K9me3). The unique spatio-temporal pattern of histone H3 modifications implicates haspin in the epigenetic control of spermiogenesis.
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8
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Subrini J, Turner J. Y chromosome functions in mammalian spermatogenesis. eLife 2021; 10:67345. [PMID: 34606444 PMCID: PMC8489898 DOI: 10.7554/elife.67345] [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: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian Y chromosome is critical for male sex determination and spermatogenesis. However, linking each Y gene to specific aspects of male reproduction has been challenging. As the Y chromosome is notoriously hard to sequence and target, functional studies have mostly relied on transgene-rescue approaches using mouse models with large multi-gene deletions. These experimental limitations have oriented the field toward the search for a minimum set of Y genes necessary for male reproduction. Here, considering Y-chromosome evolutionary history and decades of discoveries, we review the current state of research on its function in spermatogenesis and reassess the view that many Y genes are disposable for male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremie Subrini
- Sex Chromosome Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - James Turner
- Sex Chromosome Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
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9
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Protein expression reveals a molecular sexual identity of avian primordial germ cells at pre-gonadal stages. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19236. [PMID: 34584135 PMCID: PMC8478952 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98454-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In poultry, in vitro propagated primordial germ cells (PGCs) represent an important tool for the cryopreservation of avian genetic resources. However, several studies have highlighted sexual differences exhibited by PGCs during in vitro propagation, which may compromise their reproductive capacities. To understand this phenomenon, we compared the proteome of pregonadal migratory male (ZZ) and female (ZW) chicken PGCs propagated in vitro by quantitative proteomic analysis using a GeLC-MS/MS strategy. Many proteins were found to be differentially abundant in chicken male and female PGCs indicating their early sexual identity. Many of the proteins more highly expressed in male PGCs were encoded by genes localised to the Z sex chromosome. This suggests that the known lack of dosage compensation of the transcription of Z-linked genes between sexes persists at the protein level in PGCs, and that this may be a key factor of their autonomous sex differentiation. We also found that globally, protein differences do not closely correlate with transcript differences indicating a selective translational mechanism in PGCs. Male and female PGC expressed protein sets were associated with differential biological processes and contained proteins known to be biologically relevant for male and female germ cell development, respectively. We also discovered that female PGCs have a higher capacity to uptake proteins from the cell culture medium than male PGCs. This study presents the first evidence of an early predetermined sex specific cell fate of chicken PGCs and their sexual molecular specificities which will enable the development of more precise sex-specific in vitro culture conditions for the preservation of avian genetic resources.
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10
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Zhang HX, Zhou YL, Xu WY, Chen XL, Jiang JY, Zhou XM, Wang ZG, Ke RQ, Guo QW. Polymerase chain reaction-based assays facilitate the breeding and study of mouse models of Klinefelter syndrome. Asian J Androl 2021; 24:102-108. [PMID: 34100389 PMCID: PMC8788596 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_38_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is one of the most frequent genetic abnormalities and the leading genetic cause of nonobstructive azoospermia. The breeding and study of KS mouse models are essential to advancing our knowledge of the underlying pathological mechanism. Karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridization are reliable methods for identifying chromosomal contents. However, technical issues associated with these methods can decrease the efficiency of breeding KS mouse models and limit studies that require rapid identification of target mice. To overcome these limitations, we developed three polymerase chain reaction-based assays to measure specific genetic information, including presence or absence of the sex determining region of chromosome Y (Sry), copy number of amelogenin, X-linked (Amelx), and inactive X specific transcripts (Xist) levels. Through a combined analysis of the assay results, we can infer the karyotype of target mice. We confirmed the utility of our assays with the successful generation of KS mouse models. Our assays are rapid, inexpensive, high capacity, easy to perform, and only require small sample amounts. Therefore, they facilitate the breeding and study of KS mouse models and help advance our knowledge of the pathological mechanism underlying KS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Xia Zhang
- United Diagnostic and Research Center for Clinical Genetics, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yu-Lin Zhou
- United Diagnostic and Research Center for Clinical Genetics, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Wen-Yan Xu
- United Diagnostic and Research Center for Clinical Genetics, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Xiao-Lu Chen
- United Diagnostic and Research Center for Clinical Genetics, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Jia-Yang Jiang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, Quanzhou 362021, China
| | - Xiao-Man Zhou
- United Diagnostic and Research Center for Clinical Genetics, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Zeng-Ge Wang
- Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100045, China
| | - Rong-Qin Ke
- School of Biomedical Sciences and School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, Quanzhou 362021, China
| | - Qi-Wei Guo
- United Diagnostic and Research Center for Clinical Genetics, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
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11
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Yokota S, Sekine N, Wakayama T, Oshio S. Impact of chronic vitamin A excess on sperm morphogenesis in mice. Andrology 2021; 9:1579-1592. [PMID: 33818007 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increasing availability of fortified foods and supplements has caused an overconsumption of vitamin A (VA), above the recommended level. To date, the effects of chronic VA excess (VAE) on spermatogenesis remain unclear. OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate the long-term excessive intake of VA effects on spermatogenesis in mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS Dams were initially fed a control diet (4 IU/g) or a VAE diet (250 IU/g), 4 weeks prior to mating and during pregnancy. Dams and their male pups continued this diet regimen until the offspring reached 12 weeks of age. At 12 weeks of age, epididymis caudal spermatozoa and testes were collected. For histological analysis, sections were stained with periodic acid-Schiff-hematoxylin, and quantitative PCR was used to detect changes in gene expression in the testes of the VAE mice. Sperm motility and morphology were evaluated to detect the endpoint of VAE toxicity. RESULTS Body weights were not significantly different between the control and VAE groups. Testicular cross-sections from the control and VAE mice contained a normal array of germ cells, and the daily sperm production was similar between the two groups. However, the percentage of seminiferous tubules in stages VII and VIII was significantly lower in the VAE mice than in the control. In addition, significant changes in the expression of genes involved in retinoid metabolism, spermatogenesis, and spermiogenesis were detected in the testes of the VAE mice. Consistently, sperm motility and head morphology were significantly impaired in the VAE mice. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that long-term dietary intake of VAE was able to influence both pre- and post-meiotic spermatogenesis. As a result of testicular toxicity, we demonstrated, to the best of our knowledge, for the first time that long-term VAE caused sperm-head abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Yokota
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Toxicology, Center for Biological Safety and Research, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kawasaki, Japan.,Department of Hygiene Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ohu University, Koriyama, Japan
| | - Nao Sekine
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Toxicology, Center for Biological Safety and Research, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Wakayama
- Department of Histology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Shigeru Oshio
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Toxicology, Center for Biological Safety and Research, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kawasaki, Japan
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12
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Meiotic Executioner Genes Protect the Y from Extinction. Trends Genet 2020; 36:728-738. [PMID: 32773168 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2020.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The Y has been described as a wimpy degraded relic of the X, with imminent demise should it lose sex-determining function. Why then has it persisted in almost all mammals? Here we present a novel mechanistic explanation for its evolutionary perseverance: the persistent Y hypothesis. The Y chromosome bears genes that act as their own judge, jury, and executioner in the tightly regulated meiotic surveillance pathways. These executioners are crucial for successful meiosis, yet need to be silenced during the meiotic sex chromosome inactivation window, otherwise germ cells die. Only rare transposition events to the X, where they remain subject to obligate meiotic silencing, are heritable, posing strong evolutionary constraint for the Y chromosome to persist.
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13
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Li Q, Li T, Xiao X, Ahmad DW, Zhang N, Li H, Chen Z, Hou J, Liao M. Specific expression and alternative splicing of mouse genes during spermatogenesis. Mol Omics 2020; 16:258-267. [PMID: 32211685 DOI: 10.1039/c9mo00163h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Considering the high abundance of spliced RNAs in testis compared to other tissues, it is needed to construct the landscape of alternative splicing during spermatogenesis. However, there is still a lack of the systematic analysis of alternative RNA splicing in spermatogenesis. Here, we constructed a landscape of alternative RNA splicing during mouse spermatogenesis based on integrated RNA-seq data sets. Our results presented several novel alternatively spliced genes (Eif2s3y, Erdr1 Uty and Zfy1) in the Y chromosome with a specific expression pattern. Remarkably, the alternative splicing genes were grouped into co-expression networks involved in the microtubule cytoskeleton organization and post-transcriptional regulation of the gene expression, indicating the potential pathway to germ cell generation. Furthermore, based on the co-expression networks, we identified Atxn2l as a potential key gene in spermatogenesis, which presented dynamic expression patterns in different alternative splicing types. Ultimately, we proposed splicing regulatory networks for understanding novel and innovative alternative splicing regulation mechanisms during spermatogenesis. In summary, our research provides a systematic analysis of alternative RNA splicing and some novel spliced genes related to spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Li
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
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14
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Sakashita A, Wakai T, Kawabata Y, Nishimura C, Sotomaru Y, Alavattam KG, Namekawa SH, Kono T. XY oocytes of sex-reversed females with a Sry mutation deviate from the normal developmental process beyond the mitotic stage†. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:697-710. [PMID: 30289439 PMCID: PMC6437265 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The fertility of sex-reversed XY female mice is severely impaired by a massive loss of oocytes and failure of meiotic progression. This phenomenon remains an outstanding mystery. We sought to determine the molecular etiology of XY oocyte dysfunction by generating sex-reversed females that bear genetic ablation of Sry, a vital sex determination gene, on an inbred C57BL/6 background. These mutant mice, termed XYsry− mutants, showed severe attrition of germ cells during fetal development, resulting in the depletion of ovarian germ cells prior to sexual maturation. Comprehensive transcriptome analyses of primordial germ cells (PGCs) and postnatal oocytes demonstrated that XYsry− females had deviated significantly from normal developmental processes during the stages of mitotic proliferation. The impaired proliferation of XYsry− PGCs was associated with aberrant β-catenin signaling and the excessive expression of transposable elements. Upon entry to the meiotic stage, XYsry− oocytes demonstrated extensive defects, including the impairment of crossover formation, the failure of primordial follicle maintenance, and no capacity for embryo development. Together, these results suggest potential molecular causes for germ cell disruption in sex-reversed female mice, thereby providing insights into disorders of sex differentiation in humans, such as “Swyer syndrome,” in which patients with an XY karyotype present as typical females and are infertile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiko Sakashita
- Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan.,Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Takuya Wakai
- Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukiko Kawabata
- Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chiaki Nishimura
- Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yusuke Sotomaru
- Natural Science Centre for Basic Research and Development, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kris G Alavattam
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Tomohiro Kono
- Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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The Initiation of Meiotic Sex Chromosome Inactivation Sequesters DNA Damage Signaling from Autosomes in Mouse Spermatogenesis. Curr Biol 2020; 30:408-420.e5. [PMID: 31902729 PMCID: PMC7076562 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2019.11.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI) is an essential event in the mammalian male germline. MSCI is directed by a DNA damage response (DDR) pathway centered on the phosphorylation of histone variant H2AX at serine 139 (termed γH2AX). The failure to initiate MSCI is linked to complete meiotic arrest and elimination of germ cells; however, the mechanisms underlying this arrest and elimination remain unknown. To address this question, we established a new separation-of-function mouse model for H2ax that shows specific and complete defects in MSCI. The genetic change is a point mutation in which another H2AX amino acid residue important in the DDR, tyrosine 142 (Y142), is converted to alanine (H2ax-Y142A). In H2ax-Y142A meiosis, the establishment of DDR signals on the chromosome-wide domain of the sex chromosomes is impaired. The initiation of MSCI is required for stage progression, which enables crossover formation, suggesting that the establishment of MSCI permits the timely progression of male meiosis. Our results suggest that normal meiotic progression requires the removal of ATR-mediated DDR signaling from autosomes. We propose a novel biological function for MSCI: the initiation of MSCI sequesters DDR factors from autosomes to the sex chromosomes at the onset of the pachytene stage, and the subsequent formation of an isolated XY nuclear compartment-the XY body-sequesters DDR factors to permit meiotic progression from the mid-pachytene stage onward. VIDEO ABSTRACT.
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16
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Meiotic arrest occurs most frequently at metaphase and is often incomplete in azoospermic men. Fertil Steril 2019; 112:1059-1070.e3. [PMID: 31767154 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish which meiotic checkpoints are activated in males with severe spermatogenic impairment to improve phenotypic characterization of meiotic defects. DESIGN Retrospective observational study. SETTING University medical center research laboratory and andrology clinic. PATIENT(S) Forty-eight patients with confirmed spermatogenic impairment (Johnsen scores 3-6) and 15 controls (Johnsen score 10). INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Quantitative assessment of immunofluorescent analyses of specific markers to determine meiotic entry, chromosome pairing, progression of DNA double-strand break repair, crossover formation, formation of meiotic metaphases, metaphase arrest, and spermatid formation, resulting in a novel classification of human meiotic arrest types. RESULT(S) Complete metaphase arrest was observed most frequently (27%), and the patients with the highest frequency of apoptotic metaphases also displayed a reduction in crossover number. Incomplete metaphase arrest was observed in 17% of the patients. Only four patients (8%) displayed a failure to complete meiotic chromosome pairing leading to pachytene arrest. Two new types of meiotic arrest were defined: premetaphase and postmetaphase arrest (15% and 13%, respectively). CONCLUSION(S) Meiotic arrest in men occurs most frequently at meiotic metaphase. This arrest can be incomplete, resulting in low numbers of spermatids, and often occurs in association with reduced crossover frequency. The phenotyping approach described here provides mechanistic insights to help identify candidate infertility genes and to assess genotype-phenotype correlations in individual cases.
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17
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Zhang YS, Du YC, Sun LR, Wang XH, Liu SB, Xi JF, Li CC, Ying RW, Jiang S, Wang XZ, Shen H, Jia B. A genetic method for sex determination in Ovis spp. by interruption of the zinc finger protein, Y-linked (ZFY) gene on the Y chromosome. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 30:1161-1168. [PMID: 29505743 DOI: 10.1071/rd17339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The mammalian Y chromosome plays a critical role in spermatogenesis. However, the exact functions of each gene on the Y chromosome have not been completely elucidated, due, in part, to difficulties in gene targeting analysis of the Y chromosome. The zinc finger protein, Y-linked (ZFY) gene was first proposed to be a sex determination factor, although its function in spermatogenesis has recently been elucidated. Nevertheless, ZFY gene targeting analysis has not been performed to date. In the present study, RNA interference (RNAi) was used to generate ZFY-interrupted Hu sheep by injecting short hairpin RNA (shRNA) into round spermatids. The resulting spermatozoa exhibited abnormal sperm morphology, including spermatozoa without tails and others with head and tail abnormalities. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that ZFY mRNA expression was decreased significantly in Hu sheep with interrupted ZFY compared with wild-type Hu sheep. The sex ratio of lambs also exhibited a bias towards females. Together, the experimental strategy and findings of the present study reveal that ZFY also functions in spermatogenesis in Hu sheep and facilitate the use of RNAi in the control of sex in Hu sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Sheng Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Ying Chun Du
- The Aquatic Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center, Beijing, China
| | - Li Rong Sun
- Tongliao City Quality and Safety Centre of Agricultural and Livestock, Tongliao, China
| | - Xu Hai Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Shuai Bing Liu
- Nanhu District of Jiaxing City Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Bureau, Jiaxing, China
| | - Ji Feng Xi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Chao Cheng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Rui Wen Ying
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Song Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xiang Zu Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Hong Shen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Bin Jia
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
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18
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Teletin M, Vernet N, Yu J, Klopfenstein M, Jones JW, Féret B, Kane MA, Ghyselinck NB, Mark M. Two functionally redundant sources of retinoic acid secure spermatogonia differentiation in the seminiferous epithelium. Development 2019; 146:dev.170225. [PMID: 30487180 PMCID: PMC6340151 DOI: 10.1242/dev.170225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) is instrumental to spermatogenesis. It is synthesized by two retinaldehyde dehydrogenases (RALDH) present in both Sertoli cells (SCs) and germ cells (GCs). In order to determine the relative contributions of each source of ATRA, we have generated mice lacking all RALDH activities in the seminiferous epithelium (SE). We show that both the SC- and GC-derived sources of ATRA cooperate to initiate and propagate spermatogenetic waves at puberty. In adults, they exert redundant functions and, against all expectations, the GC-derived source does not perform any specific roles despite contributing to two-thirds of the total amount of ATRA present in the testis. The production from SCs is sufficient to maintain the periodic expression of genes in SCs, as well and the cycle and wave of the SE, which account for the steady production of spermatozoa. The production from SCs is also specifically required for spermiation. Importantly, our study shows that spermatogonia differentiation depends upon the ATRA synthesized by RALDH inside the SE, whereas initiation of meiosis and expression of STRA8 by spermatocytes can occur without ATRA. Summary: All-trans retinoic acid made by Sertoli cells is instrumental to spermatogenesis and is specifically required for spermatid release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius Teletin
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France.,Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg (HUS), France
| | - Nadège Vernet
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Jianshi Yu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Muriel Klopfenstein
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Jace W Jones
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Betty Féret
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Maureen A Kane
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Norbert B Ghyselinck
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Manuel Mark
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France .,Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg (HUS), France
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19
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Xi JF, Wang XZ, Zhang YS, Jia B, Li CC, Wang XH, Ying RW. Sex control by Zfy siRNA in the dairy cattle. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 200:1-6. [PMID: 30377028 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Zinc-finger Y is located in the short arm of the Y-chromosome and is a highly conserved gene that plays an important role in spermatogenesis. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of silencing the Zfy gene during spermatogenesis on Y-sperm formation and offspring sex determination in Bos taurus cattle. Three recombinant expression vectors pLL3.7/a, pLL3.7/b and pLL3.7/c were evaluated and only pLL3.7/a effectively silenced the Zfy gene. The pLL3.7/a recombinant expression vector was injected into bull testes, using three injections. Semen was collected and preserved by extending and freezing. The frozen semen was subsequently used in artificial insemination of cows during a breeding season in accordance with the production plan on the farm where the experiment was conducted. Results showed that, after exposure to pLL3.7/a, sperm motility decreased (P < 0.01), but the sperm density was similar (p > 0.05) to the non-treated control semen. Injection of pLL3.7/a resulted in 72.0% female offspring, and was greater than the 49.4% female calves in the control (P < 0.01), Results from this research suggests that the Zfy gene plays a role in the process of Y-sperm formation, and Zfy siRNA is a potential useful approach to control sex of offspring in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Feng Xi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832003, PR China; Xinjiang Agricultural Vocational Technical College, Changji, Xinjiang, 831100, PR China
| | - Xiang-Zu Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832003, PR China; Xinjiang Agricultural Vocational Technical College, Changji, Xinjiang, 831100, PR China
| | - Yong-Sheng Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832003, PR China
| | - Bin Jia
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832003, PR China.
| | - Chao-Cheng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832003, PR China
| | - Xu-Hai Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832003, PR China
| | - Rui-Wen Ying
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832003, PR China
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20
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Jan SZ, Jongejan A, Korver CM, van Daalen SKM, van Pelt AMM, Repping S, Hamer G. Distinct prophase arrest mechanisms in human male meiosis. Development 2018. [PMID: 29540502 PMCID: PMC6124541 DOI: 10.1242/dev.160614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
To prevent chromosomal aberrations being transmitted to the offspring, strict meiotic checkpoints are in place to remove aberrant spermatocytes. However, in about 1% of males these checkpoints cause complete meiotic arrest leading to azoospermia and subsequent infertility. Here, we unravel two clearly distinct meiotic arrest mechanisms that occur during prophase of human male meiosis. Type I arrested spermatocytes display severe asynapsis of the homologous chromosomes, disturbed XY-body formation and increased expression of the Y chromosome-encoded gene ZFY and seem to activate a DNA damage pathway leading to induction of p63, possibly causing spermatocyte apoptosis. Type II arrested spermatocytes display normal chromosome synapsis, normal XY-body morphology and meiotic crossover formation but have a lowered expression of several cell cycle regulating genes and fail to silence the X chromosome-encoded gene ZFX. Discovery and understanding of these meiotic arrest mechanisms increases our knowledge of how genomic stability is guarded during human germ cell development. Summary: Histological examination and transcriptomic analysis of human meiosis-arrested spermatocytes reveals two prophase arrest mechanisms, each associated with distinct gene expression profiles implicating the involvement of different biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Z Jan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aldo Jongejan
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Academic Medical Center, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cindy M Korver
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia K M van Daalen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Geert Hamer
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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21
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Colaco S, Modi D. Genetics of the human Y chromosome and its association with male infertility. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:14. [PMID: 29454353 PMCID: PMC5816366 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0330-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human Y chromosome harbors genes that are responsible for testis development and also for initiation and maintenance of spermatogenesis in adulthood. The long arm of the Y chromosome (Yq) contains many ampliconic and palindromic sequences making it predisposed to self-recombination during spermatogenesis and hence susceptible to intra-chromosomal deletions. Such deletions lead to copy number variation in genes of the Y chromosome resulting in male infertility. Three common Yq deletions that recur in infertile males are termed as AZF (Azoospermia Factor) microdeletions viz. AZFa, AZFb and AZFc. As estimated from data of nearly 40,000 Y chromosomes, the global prevalence of Yq microdeletions is 7.5% in infertile males; however the European infertile men are less susceptible to Yq microdeletions, the highest prevalence is in Americans and East Asian infertile men. In addition, partial deletions of the AZFc locus have been associated with infertility but the effect seems to be ethnicity dependent. Analysis of > 17,000 Y chromosomes from fertile and infertile men has revealed an association of gr/gr deletion with male infertility in Caucasians and Mongolian men, while the b2/b3 deletion is associated with male infertility in African and Dravidian men. Clinically, the screening for Yq microdeletions would aid the clinician in determining the cause of male infertility and decide a rational management strategy for the patient. As these deletions are transmitted to 100% of male offspring born through assisted reproduction, testing of Yq deletions will allow the couples to make an informed choice regarding the perpetuation of male infertility in future generations. With the emerging data on association of Yq deletions with testicular cancers and neuropsychiatric conditions long term follow-up data is urgently needed for infertile men harboring Yq deletions. If found so, the information will change the current the perspective of androgenetics from infertility and might have broad implication in men health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy Colaco
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400012, India
| | - Deepak Modi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400012, India.
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22
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Vernet N, Mahadevaiah SK, de Rooij DG, Burgoyne PS, Ellis PJI. Zfy genes are required for efficient meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI) in spermatocytes. Hum Mol Genet 2017; 25:5300-5310. [PMID: 27742779 PMCID: PMC5418838 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddw344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
During spermatogenesis, germ cells that fail to synapse their chromosomes or fail to undergo meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI) are eliminated via apoptosis during mid-pachytene. Previous work showed that Y-linked genes Zfy1 and Zfy2 act as ‘executioners’ for this checkpoint, and that wrongful expression of either gene during pachytene triggers germ cell death. Here, we show that in mice, Zfy genes are also necessary for efficient MSCI and the sex chromosomes are not correctly silenced in Zfy-deficient spermatocytes. This unexpectedly reveals a triple role for Zfy at the mid-pachytene checkpoint in which Zfy genes first promote MSCI, then monitor its progress (since if MSCI is achieved, Zfy genes will be silenced), and finally execute cells with MSCI failure. This potentially constitutes a negative feedback loop governing this critical checkpoint mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadège Vernet
- Division of Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics, MRC National Institute for Medical Research, Mill Hill, London, UK.,Department of Functional Genomics and Cancer, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Shantha K Mahadevaiah
- Division of Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics, MRC National Institute for Medical Research, Mill Hill, London, UK.,Division of Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics, The Francis Crick Institute, Mill Hill Laboratory, The Ridgeway, London, UK
| | - Dirk G de Rooij
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Paul S Burgoyne
- Division of Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics, MRC National Institute for Medical Research, Mill Hill, London, UK.,Division of Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics, The Francis Crick Institute, Mill Hill Laboratory, The Ridgeway, London, UK
| | - Peter J I Ellis
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NZ, UK
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23
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Spermatogenic failure and the Y chromosome. Hum Genet 2017; 136:637-655. [PMID: 28456834 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-017-1793-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The Y chromosome harbors a number of genes essential for testis development and function. Its highly repetitive structure predisposes this chromosome to deletion/duplication events and is responsible for Y-linked copy-number variations (CNVs) with clinical relevance. The AZF deletions remove genes with predicted spermatogenic function en block and are the most frequent known molecular causes of impaired spermatogenesis (5-10% of azoospermic and 2-5% of severe oligozoospermic men). Testing for this deletion has both diagnostic and prognostic value for testicular sperm retrieval in azoospermic men. The most dynamic region on the Yq is the AZFc region, presenting numerous NAHR hotspots leading to partial losses or gains of the AZFc genes. The gr/gr deletion (a partial AZFc deletion) negatively affects spermatogenic efficiency and it is a validated, population-dependent risk factor for oligozoospermia. In certain populations, the Y background may play a role in the phenotypic expression of partial AZFc rearrangements and similarly it may affect the predisposition to specific deletions/duplication events. Also, the Yp contains a gene array, TSPY1, with potential effect on germ cell proliferation. Despite intensive investigations during the last 20 years on the role of this sex chromosome in spermatogenesis, a number of clinical and basic questions remain to be answered. This review is aimed at providing an overview of the role of Y chromosome-linked genes, CNVs, and Y background in spermatogenesis.
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24
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Zhang Y, Xi J, Jia B, Wang X, Wang X, Li C, Li Y, Zeng X, Ying R, Li X, Jiang S, Yuan F. RNAi as a tool to control the sex ratio of mouse offspring by interrupting Zfx/Zfy genes in the testis. Mamm Genome 2017; 28:100-105. [PMID: 28251288 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-017-9682-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to explore a novel method to alter the sex-ratio balance of mouse offspring by silencing the paralogous genes Zfx/Zfy (Zinc finger X/Y-chromosomal transcription factor gene) during spermatogenesis. Four recombined vectors PRZ1, PRZ2, PRZ3, and PRZ4 (RNAi-Ready-pSIREN-RetroQ-ZsGreen) were constructed for interrupting the Zfx gene. Additionally, a recombined vector Psilencer/Zfy-shRNA was constructed for interrupting the Zfy gene. Male mice were randomly divided into 8 groups, with 20 animals per group. Five groups of mice were injected with PRZ1, PRZ2, PRZ3, PRZ4, and Psilencer/Zfy-shRNA vectors, respectively. The three control groups were injected with an equal volume of physiological saline, empty RNAi-Ready-pSIREN-RetroQ-ZsGreen vector, and empty Psilencer/Zfy-shRNA vector, respectively. All groups were injected every 7 days for a total of four injections. Fourteen days after the fourth injection, 10 male mice from each group were mated individually with 10 females. Testicular tissue of 10 male mice in each group was collected, and the expression level of Zfx/Zfy mRNA was determined by qRT-PCR. Results showed that, compared with the empty RNAi-Ready-pSIREN-RetroQ-ZsGreen vector and the physiological saline group, expression of Zfx mRNA decreased significantly after injection of PRZ1 (p < 0.01), PRZ3 (p < 0.01), and PRZ4 (p < 0.01), and 78.75 ± 7.50% of the offspring were male in PRZ4 group, significantly higher than the offspring derived from the empty RNAi-Ready-pSIREN-RetroQ-ZsGreen vector and physiological saline group (p < 0.01). In the PRZ1 group, the expression of Zfx mRNA was also significantly lower (p < 0.01), but the male rate of offspring was not different (p > 0.05). Conversely, the expression of Zfy mRNA decreased significantly after injection of Psilencer/Zfy-shRNA (p < 0.01) and 31.00 ± 11.00% of the offspring were male, significantly lower than in the physiological saline group (p < 0.01). In conclusion, our findings show that RNAi-mediated disruption of Zfx/Zfy in mouse testis affected X/Y spermatogenesis. Additionally, results suggest that the paralogous genes Zfx/Zfy play an important role in the process of X and Y sperm development. The individual interference of Zfx/Zfy may predict the outcome of X and Y haploid sperms. Presented herein is an advanced method developed to control mouse X/Y spermatogenesis and sex ratio of offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- YongSheng Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - JiFeng Xi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China.,Xinjiang Agricultural Vocational Technical College, Shihezi, China
| | - Bin Jia
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China.
| | - XiangZu Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China.,Xinjiang Agricultural Vocational Technical College, Shihezi, China
| | - XuHai Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - ChaoCheng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - YaQiang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - XianCun Zeng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - RuiWen Ying
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xin Li
- College of Life Sciences, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Song Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - FangYuan Yuan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
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25
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Complementary Critical Functions of Zfy1 and Zfy2 in Mouse Spermatogenesis and Reproduction. PLoS Genet 2017; 13:e1006578. [PMID: 28114340 PMCID: PMC5287576 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian Y chromosome plays a critical role in spermatogenesis. However, the exact functions of each gene in the Y chromosome have not been completely elucidated, partly owing to difficulties in gene targeting analysis of the Y chromosome. Zfy was first proposed to be a sex determination factor, but its function in spermatogenesis has been recently elucidated. Nevertheless, Zfy gene targeting analysis has not been performed thus far. Here, we adopted the highly efficient CRISPR/Cas9 system to generate individual Zfy1 or Zfy2 knockout (KO) mice and Zfy1 and Zfy2 double knockout (Zfy1/2-DKO) mice. While individual Zfy1 or Zfy2-KO mice did not show any significant phenotypic alterations in fertility, Zfy1/2-DKO mice were infertile and displayed abnormal sperm morphology, fertilization failure, and early embryonic development failure. Mass spectrometric screening, followed by confirmation with western blot analysis, showed that PLCZ1, PLCD4, PRSS21, and HTT protein expression were significantly deceased in spermatozoa of Zfy1/2-DKO mice compared with those of wild-type mice. These results are consistent with the phenotypic changes seen in the double-mutant mice. Collectively, our strategy and findings revealed that Zfy1 and Zfy2 have redundant functions in spermatogenesis, facilitating a better understanding of fertilization failure and early embryonic development failure.
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26
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Burgoyne PS, Arnold AP. A primer on the use of mouse models for identifying direct sex chromosome effects that cause sex differences in non-gonadal tissues. Biol Sex Differ 2016; 7:68. [PMID: 27999654 PMCID: PMC5154145 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-016-0115-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In animals with heteromorphic sex chromosomes, all sex differences originate from the sex chromosomes, which are the only factors that are consistently different in male and female zygotes. In mammals, the imbalance in Y gene expression, specifically the presence vs. absence of Sry, initiates the differentiation of testes in males, setting up lifelong sex differences in the level of gonadal hormones, which in turn cause many sex differences in the phenotype of non-gonadal tissues. The inherent imbalance in the expression of X and Y genes, or in the epigenetic impact of X and Y chromosomes, also has the potential to contribute directly to the sexual differentiation of non-gonadal cells. Here, we review the research strategies to identify the X and Y genes or chromosomal regions that cause direct, sexually differentiating effects on non-gonadal cells. Some mouse models are useful for separating the effects of sex chromosomes from those of gonadal hormones. Once direct “sex chromosome effects” are detected in these models, further studies are required to narrow down the list of candidate X and/or Y genes and then to identify the sexually differentiating genes themselves. Logical approaches to the search for these genes are reviewed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul S Burgoyne
- Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics, Mill Hill Laboratory, Francis Crick Institute, The Ridgeway, London, NW7 1AA UK
| | - Arthur P Arnold
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, and Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, 610 Charles Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7239 USA
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27
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Mulugeta E, Wassenaar E, Sleddens-Linkels E, van IJcken WFJ, Heard E, Grootegoed JA, Just W, Gribnau J, Baarends WM. Genomes of Ellobius species provide insight into the evolutionary dynamics of mammalian sex chromosomes. Genome Res 2016; 26:1202-10. [PMID: 27510564 PMCID: PMC5052041 DOI: 10.1101/gr.201665.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The X and Y sex chromosomes of placental mammals show hallmarks of a tumultuous evolutionary past. The X Chromosome has a rich and conserved gene content, while the Y Chromosome has lost most of its genes. In the Transcaucasian mole vole Ellobius lutescens, the Y Chromosome including Sry has been lost, and both females and males have a 17,X diploid karyotype. Similarly, the closely related Ellobius talpinus, has a 54,XX karyotype in both females and males. Here, we report the sequencing and assembly of the E. lutescens and E. talpinus genomes. The results indicate that the loss of the Y Chromosome in E. lutescens and E. talpinus occurred in two independent events. Four functional homologs of mouse Y-Chromosomal genes were detected in both female and male E. lutescens, of which three were also detected in the E. talpinus genome. One of these is Eif2s3y, known as the only Y-derived gene that is crucial for successful male meiosis. Female and male E. lutescens can carry one and the same X Chromosome with a largely conserved gene content, including all genes known to function in X Chromosome inactivation. The availability of the genomes of these mole vole species provides unique models to study the dynamics of sex chromosome evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eskeatnaf Mulugeta
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus MC, 3015CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Institut Curie, Genetics and Developmental Biology Unit, 75248, Paris, France
| | - Evelyne Wassenaar
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus MC, 3015CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Edith Heard
- Institut Curie, Genetics and Developmental Biology Unit, 75248, Paris, France
| | - J Anton Grootegoed
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus MC, 3015CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Walter Just
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Ulm, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Joost Gribnau
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus MC, 3015CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Willy M Baarends
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus MC, 3015CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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28
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Yamauchi Y, Riel JM, Ruthig VA, Ortega EA, Mitchell MJ, Ward MA. Two genes substitute for the mouse Y chromosome for spermatogenesis and reproduction. Science 2016; 351:514-6. [PMID: 26823431 DOI: 10.1126/science.aad1795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian Y chromosome is considered a symbol of maleness, as it encodes a gene driving male sex determination, Sry, as well as a battery of other genes important for male reproduction. We previously demonstrated in the mouse that successful assisted reproduction can be achieved when the Y gene contribution is limited to only two genes, Sry and spermatogonial proliferation factor Eif2s3y. Here, we replaced Sry by transgenic activation of its downstream target Sox9, and Eif2s3y, by transgenic overexpression of its X chromosome-encoded homolog Eif2s3x. The resulting males with no Y chromosome genes produced haploid male gametes and sired offspring after assisted reproduction. Our findings support the existence of functional redundancy between the Y chromosome genes and their homologs encoded on other chromosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Yamauchi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 1960 East-West Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Jonathan M Riel
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 1960 East-West Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Victor A Ruthig
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 1960 East-West Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Eglė A Ortega
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 1960 East-West Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Michael J Mitchell
- Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM, GMGF UMR_S 910, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Monika A Ward
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 1960 East-West Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA.
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29
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Taketo T. The role of sex chromosomes in mammalian germ cell differentiation: can the germ cells carrying X and Y chromosomes differentiate into fertile oocytes? Asian J Androl 2016; 17:360-6. [PMID: 25578929 PMCID: PMC4430933 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.143306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The sexual differentiation of germ cells into spermatozoa or oocytes is strictly regulated by their gonadal environment, testis or ovary, which is determined by the presence or absence of the Y chromosome, respectively. Hence, in normal mammalian development, male germ cells differentiate in the presence of X and Y chromosomes, and female germ cells do so in the presence of two X chromosomes. However, gonadal sex reversal occurs in humans as well as in other mammalian species, and the resultant XX males and XY females can lead healthy lives, except for a complete or partial loss of fertility. Germ cells carrying an abnormal set of sex chromosomes are efficiently eliminated by multilayered surveillance mechanisms in the testis, and also, though more variably, in the ovary. Studying the molecular basis for sex-specific responses to a set of sex chromosomes during gametogenesis will promote our understanding of meiotic processes contributing to the evolution of sex determining mechanisms. This review discusses the fate of germ cells carrying various sex chromosomal compositions in mouse models, the limitation of which may be overcome by recent successes in the differentiation of functional germ cells from embryonic stem cells under experimental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruko Taketo
- Department of Surgery, Research Institute of MUHC; Department of Biology; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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30
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Hu YC, Namekawa SH. Functional significance of the sex chromosomes during spermatogenesis. Reproduction 2016; 149:R265-77. [PMID: 25948089 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian sex chromosomes arose from an ordinary pair of autosomes. Over hundreds of millions of years, they have evolved into highly divergent X and Y chromosomes and have become increasingly specialized for male reproduction. Both sex chromosomes have acquired and amplified testis-specific genes, suggestive of roles in spermatogenesis. To understand how the sex chromosome genes participate in the regulation of spermatogenesis, we review genes, including single-copy, multi-copy, and ampliconic genes, whose spermatogenic functions have been demonstrated in mouse genetic studies. Sex chromosomes are subject to chromosome-wide transcriptional silencing in meiotic and postmeiotic stages of spermatogenesis. We also discuss particular sex-linked genes that escape postmeiotic silencing and their evolutionary implications. The unique gene contents and genomic structures of the sex chromosomes reflect their strategies to express genes at various stages of spermatogenesis and reveal the driving forces that shape their evolution.Free Chinese abstract: A Chinese translation of this abstract is freely available at http://www.reproduction-online.org/content/149/6/R265/suppl/DC1.Free Japanese abstract: A Japanese translation of this abstract is freely available at http://www.reproduction-online.org/content/149/6/R265/suppl/DC2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueh-Chiang Hu
- Division of Developmental BiologyDivision of Reproductive SciencesCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Division of Developmental BiologyDivision of Reproductive SciencesCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA Division of Developmental BiologyDivision of Reproductive SciencesCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA
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31
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Vernet N, Mahadevaiah SK, Decarpentrie F, Longepied G, de Rooij DG, Burgoyne PS, Mitchell MJ. Mouse Y-Encoded Transcription Factor Zfy2 Is Essential for Sperm Head Remodelling and Sperm Tail Development. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0145398. [PMID: 26765744 PMCID: PMC4713206 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0145398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
A previous study indicated that genetic information encoded on the mouse Y chromosome short arm (Yp) is required for efficient completion of the second meiotic division (that generates haploid round spermatids), restructuring of the sperm head, and development of the sperm tail. Using mouse models lacking a Y chromosome but with varying Yp gene complements provided by Yp chromosomal derivatives or transgenes, we recently identified the Y-encoded zinc finger transcription factors Zfy1 and Zfy2 as the Yp genes promoting the second meiotic division. Using the same mouse models we here show that Zfy2 (but not Zfy1) contributes to the restructuring of the sperm head and is required for the development of the sperm tail. The preferential involvement of Zfy2 is consistent with the presence of an additional strong spermatid-specific promotor that has been acquired by this gene. This is further supported by the fact that promotion of sperm morphogenesis is also seen in one of the two markedly Yp gene deficient models in which a Yp deletion has created a Zfy2/1 fusion gene that is driven by the strong Zfy2 spermatid-specific promotor, but encodes a protein almost identical to that encoded by Zfy1. Our results point to there being further genetic information on Yp that also has a role in restructuring the sperm head.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadege Vernet
- Division of Developmental Genetics, MRC National Institute for Medical Research, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Functional Genomics and Cancer, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Shantha K Mahadevaiah
- Division of Developmental Genetics, MRC National Institute for Medical Research, London, United Kingdom.,The Francis Crick Institute, Mill Hill Laboratory, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fanny Decarpentrie
- Division of Developmental Genetics, MRC National Institute for Medical Research, London, United Kingdom.,The Francis Crick Institute, Mill Hill Laboratory, London, United Kingdom
| | - Guy Longepied
- Aix Marseille Université GMGF, Marseille, France.,Inserm, UMR_S 910, Marseille, France
| | - Dirk G de Rooij
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul S Burgoyne
- Division of Developmental Genetics, MRC National Institute for Medical Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael J Mitchell
- Aix Marseille Université GMGF, Marseille, France.,Inserm, UMR_S 910, Marseille, France
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32
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Yamauchi Y, Riel JM, Ruthig V, Ward MA. Mouse Y-Encoded Transcription Factor Zfy2 Is Essential for Sperm Formation and Function in Assisted Fertilization. PLoS Genet 2015; 11:e1005476. [PMID: 26719889 PMCID: PMC4697804 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1005476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a key developmental process allowing for a formation of a mature male gamete. During its final phase, spermiogenesis, haploid round spermatids undergo cellular differentiation into spermatozoa, which involves extensive restructuring of cell morphology, DNA, and epigenome. Using mouse models with abrogated Y chromosome gene complements and Y-derived transgene we identified Y chromosome encoded Zfy2 as the gene responsible for sperm formation and function. In the presence of a Zfy2 transgene, mice lacking the Y chromosome and transgenic for two other Y-derived genes, Sry driving sex determination and Eif2s3y initiating spermatogenesis, are capable of producing sperm which when injected into the oocytes yield live offspring. Therefore, only three Y chromosome genes, Sry, Eif2s3y and Zfy2, constitute the minimum Y chromosome complement compatible with successful intracytoplasmic sperm injection in the mouse. The mammalian Y chromosome was once thought to be a genetic wasteland with testis determinant Sry being the only gene of importance. We now know that there are many genes on this chromosome crucial for male reproduction but their specific roles are often undefined. Here, we investigated the function of the Y chromosome gene Zfy2 during a final step of male gamete formation. We demonstrated that Zfy2 is responsible for allowing sperm precursor cells, haploid round spermatids, to undergo transformation into spermatozoa, and that these sperm are capable of yielding live offspring when injected into the oocytes. Thus, we identified a novel role of the Zfy2 gene during spermatogenesis and fertilization. Considering that in human sperm formation is a prerequisite for male infertility treatment using assisted reproduction technologies, our finding bear translational significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Yamauchi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Jonathan M. Riel
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Victor Ruthig
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Monika A. Ward
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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33
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Recombination between the mouse Y chromosome short arm and an additional Y short arm-derived chromosomal segment attached distal to the X chromosome PAR. Chromosoma 2015; 125:177-88. [PMID: 26596988 PMCID: PMC4830887 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-015-0559-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
In a male mouse, meiosis markers of processed DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) such as DMC1 and RAD51 are regularly seen in the non-PAR region of the X chromosome; these disappear late in prophase prior to entry into the first meiotic metaphase. Marker evidence for DSBs occurring in the non-PAR region of the Y chromosome is limited. Nevertheless, historically it has been documented that recombination can occur within the mouse Y short arm (Yp) when an additional Yp segment is attached distal to the X and/or the Y pseudoautosomal region (PAR). A number of recombinants identified among offsprings involved unequal exchanges involving repeated DNA segments; however, equal exchanges will have frequently been missed because of the paucity of markers to differentiate between the two Yp segments. Here, we discuss this historical data and present extensive additional data obtained for two mouse models with Yp additions to the X PAR. PCR genotyping enabled identification of a wider range of potential recombinants; the proportions of Yp exchanges identified among the recombinants were 9.7 and 22.4 %. The frequency of these exchanges suggests that the Yp segment attached to the X PAR is subject to the elevated level of recombinational DSBs that characterizes the PAR.
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34
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Faisal I, Kauppi L. Sex chromosome recombination failure, apoptosis, and fertility in male mice. Chromosoma 2015; 125:227-35. [DOI: 10.1007/s00412-015-0542-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Revised: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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35
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Case LK, Teuscher C. Y genetic variation and phenotypic diversity in health and disease. Biol Sex Differ 2015; 6:6. [PMID: 25866616 PMCID: PMC4392626 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-015-0024-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 02/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexually dimorphic traits arise through the combined effects of sex hormones and sex chromosomes on sex-biased gene expression, and experimental mouse models have been instrumental in determining their relative contribution in modulating sex differences. A role for the Y chromosome (ChrY) in mediating sex differences outside of development and reproduction has historically been overlooked due to its unusual genetic composition and the predominant testes-specific expression of ChrY-encoded genes. However, ample evidence now exists supporting ChrY as a mediator of other physiological traits in males, and genetic variation in ChrY has been linked to several diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune diseases in experimental animal models, as well as humans. The genetic and molecular mechanisms by which ChrY modulates phenotypic variation in males remain unknown but may be a function of copy number variation between homologous X-Y multicopy genes driving differential gene expression. Here, we review the literature identifying an association between ChrY polymorphism and phenotypic variation and present the current evidence depicting the mammalian ChrY as a member of the regulatory genome in males and as a factor influencing paternal parent-of-origin effects in female offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laure K Case
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, 89 Beaumont Ave, Burlington, VT 05405 USA
| | - Cory Teuscher
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, 89 Beaumont Ave, Burlington, VT 05405 USA ; Department of Pathology, University of Vermont, 89 Beaumont Ave, Burlington, VT 05405 USA ; University of Vermont, Given Medical Building C317, Burlington, VT 05405 USA
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36
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Ward WS, Moisyadi S. Medical school hotline: The Institute for Biogenesis Research: a flower in the Pacific. HAWAI'I JOURNAL OF MEDICINE & PUBLIC HEALTH : A JOURNAL OF ASIA PACIFIC MEDICINE & PUBLIC HEALTH 2014; 73:393-6. [PMID: 25628972 PMCID: PMC4300549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- W Steven Ward
- Professor of the Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, and Director of the Institute for Biogenesis Research, Honolulu, HI (WSW)
| | - Stefan Moisyadi
- Professor of the Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, and Director of the Institute for Biogenesis Research, Honolulu, HI (WSW)
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