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Wankanit S, Zidoune H, Bignon-Topalovic J, Schlick L, Houzelstein D, Fusée L, Boukri A, Nouri N, McElreavey K, Bashamboo A, Elzaiat M. Evidence for NR2F2/COUP-TFII involvement in human testis development. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17869. [PMID: 39090159 PMCID: PMC11294483 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68860-3] [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: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
NR2F2 encodes COUP-TFII, an orphan nuclear receptor required for the development of the steroidogenic lineages of the murine fetal testes and ovaries. Pathogenic variants in human NR2F2 are associated with testis formation in 46,XX individuals, however, the function of COUP-TFII in the human testis is unknown. We report a de novo heterozygous variant in NR2F2 (c.737G > A, p.Arg246His) in a 46,XY under-masculinized boy with primary hypogonadism. The variant, located within the ligand-binding domain, is predicted to be highly damaging. In vitro studies indicated that the mutation does not impact the stability or subcellular localization of the protein. NR5A1, a related nuclear receptor that is a key factor in gonad formation and function, is known to physically interact with COUP-TFII to regulate gene expression. The mutant protein did not affect the physical interaction with NR5A1. However, in-vitro assays demonstrated that the mutant protein significantly loses the inhibitory effect on NR5A1-mediated activation of both the LHB and INSL3 promoters. The data support a role for COUP-TFII in human testis formation. Although mutually antagonistic sets of genes are known to regulate testis and ovarian pathways, we extend the list of genes, that together with NR5A1 and WT1, are associated with both 46,XX and 46,XY DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somboon Wankanit
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Housna Zidoune
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
- Department of Animal Biology, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, 25017, Constantine, Algeria
| | | | - Laurène Schlick
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Denis Houzelstein
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Leila Fusée
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Asma Boukri
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, CHU Ibn Badis Constantine, Constantine, Algeria
- Metabolic Disease Research Laboratory, Salah Boubnider Constantine 3 University, El Khroub, Algeria
| | - Nassim Nouri
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, CHU Ibn Badis Constantine, Constantine, Algeria
- Metabolic Disease Research Laboratory, Salah Boubnider Constantine 3 University, El Khroub, Algeria
| | - Ken McElreavey
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Anu Bashamboo
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Maëva Elzaiat
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France.
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Katayama K, Ito J, Murakami R, Yamashita A, Sasajima H, Narahashi S, Chiba J, Yamamoto I, Fujii W, Tochigi Y, Suzuki H. Mutation of the Thap4 gene causes dwarfism and testicular anomalies in rats and mice. Mamm Genome 2024; 35:149-159. [PMID: 38658415 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-024-10041-8] [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: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The petit (pet) locus is associated with dwarfism, testicular anomalies, severe thymic hypoplasia, and high postnatal lethality, which are inherited in autosomal recessive mode of inheritance in rats with a Wistar strain genetic background. Linkage analysis localized the pet locus between 98.7 Mb and 101.2 Mb on rat chromosome 9. Nucleotide sequence analysis identified 2 bp deletion in exon 2 of the Thap4 gene as the causative mutation for pet. This deletion causes a frameshift and premature termination codon, resulting in a truncated THAP4 protein lacking approximately two-thirds of the C-terminal side. Thap4 is expressed in various organs, including the testis and thymus in rats. To elucidate the biological function of THAP4 in other species, we generated Thap4 knockout mice lacking exon 2 of the Thap4 gene through genome editing. Thap4 knockout mice also exhibited dwarfism and small testis but did not show high postnatal lethality. Thymus weights of adult Thap4 knockout male mice were significantly higher compared to wild-type male mice. Although Thap4 knockout male mice were fertile, their testis contained seminiferous tubules with spermatogenesis and degenerative seminiferous tubules lacking germ cells. Additionally, we observed vacuoles in seminiferous tubules, and clusters of cells in the lumen in seminiferous tubules in Thap4 knockout male mice. These results demonstrate that spontaneous mutation of Thap4 gene in rats and knockout of Thap4 gene in mice both cause dwarfism and testicular anomalies. Thap4 gene in rats and mice is essential for normal testicular development, maintaining spermatogenesis throughout the entire region of seminiferous tubules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Katayama
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Junya Ito
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Rei Murakami
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Ayako Yamashita
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Hotaka Sasajima
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Satomi Narahashi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Junko Chiba
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Ichiro Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Wataru Fujii
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yuki Tochigi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Hiroetsu Suzuki
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan.
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Reyer H, Abou-Soliman I, Schulze M, Henne H, Reinsch N, Schoen J, Wimmers K. Genome-Wide Association Analysis of Semen Characteristics in Piétrain Boars. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:382. [PMID: 38540441 PMCID: PMC10969825 DOI: 10.3390/genes15030382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Since artificial insemination is common practice in pig breeding, the quality and persistence of the semen are decisive for the usability of individual boars. In the current study, genome-wide association analyses were performed to investigate the genetic variability underlying phenotypic variations in semen characteristics. These traits comprise sperm morphology and sperm motility under different temporal and thermal storage conditions, in addition to standard semen quality parameters. Two consecutive samples of the fourth and fifth ejaculates from the same boar were comprehensively analyzed in a genotyped Piétrain boar population. A total of 13 genomic regions on different chromosomes were identified that contain single-nucleotide polymorphisms significantly associated with these traits. Subsequent analysis of the genomic regions revealed candidate genes described to be involved in spermatogenesis, such as FOXL3, GPER1, PDGFA, PRKAR1B, SNRK, SUN1, and TSPO, and sperm motility, including ARRDC4, CEP78, DNAAF5, and GPER1. Some of these genes were also associated with male fertility or infertility in mammals (e.g., CEP78, GPER1). The analyses based on these laboriously determined and valuable phenotypes contribute to a better understanding of the genetic background of male fertility traits in pigs and could prospectively contribute to the improvement of sperm quality through breeding approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Reyer
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany; (I.A.-S.); (N.R.); (K.W.)
| | - Ibrahim Abou-Soliman
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany; (I.A.-S.); (N.R.); (K.W.)
- Department of Animal and Poultry Breeding, Desert Research Center, Cairo 11753, Egypt
| | - Martin Schulze
- Institute for Reproduction of Farm Animals Schönow, 16321 Bernau, Germany;
| | | | - Norbert Reinsch
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany; (I.A.-S.); (N.R.); (K.W.)
| | - Jennifer Schoen
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), 10315 Berlin, Germany;
- Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany
| | - Klaus Wimmers
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany; (I.A.-S.); (N.R.); (K.W.)
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Rostock, 18059 Rostock, Germany
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Jiang K, Jorgensen JS. Fetal Leydig cells: What we know and what we don't. Mol Reprod Dev 2024; 91:e23739. [PMID: 38480999 PMCID: PMC11135463 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23739] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
During male fetal development, testosterone plays an essential role in the differentiation and maturation of the male reproductive system. Deficient fetal testosterone production can result in variations of sex differentiation that may cause infertility and even increased tumor incidence later in life. Fetal Leydig cells in the fetal testis are the major androgen source in mammals. Although fetal and adult Leydig cells are similar in their functions, they are two distinct cell types, and therefore, the knowledge of adult Leydig cells cannot be directly applied to understanding fetal Leydig cells. This review summarizes our current knowledge of fetal Leydig cells regarding their cell biology, developmental biology, and androgen production regulation in rodents and human. Fetal Leydig cells are present in basement membrane-enclosed clusters in between testis cords. They originate from the mesonephros mesenchyme and the coelomic epithelium and start to differentiate upon receiving a Desert Hedgehog signal from Sertoli cells or being released from a NOTCH signal from endothelial cells. Mature fetal Leydig cells produce androgens. Human fetal Leydig cell steroidogenesis is LHCGR (Luteinizing Hormone Chronic Gonadotropin Receptor) dependent, while rodents are not, although other Gαs -protein coupled receptors might be involved in rodent steroidogenesis regulation. Fetal steroidogenesis ceases after sex differentiation is completed, and some fetal Leydig cells dedifferentiate to serve as stem cells for adult testicular cell types. Significant gaps are acknowledged: (1) Why are adult and fetal Leydig cells different? (2) What are bona fide progenitor and fetal Leydig cell markers? (3) Which signaling pathways and transcription factors regulate fetal Leydig cell steroidogenesis? It is critical to discover answers to these questions so that we can understand vulnerable targets in fetal Leydig cells and the mechanisms for androgen production that when disrupted, leads to variations in sex differentiation that range from subtle to complete sex reversal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keer Jiang
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Joan S. Jorgensen
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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Ferreira LGA, Kizys MML, Gama GAC, Pachernegg S, Robevska G, Sinclair AH, Ayers KL, Dias-da-Silva MR. COUP-TFII regulates early bipotential gonad signaling and commitment to ovarian progenitors. Cell Biosci 2024; 14:3. [PMID: 38178246 PMCID: PMC10768475 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01182-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The absence of expression of the Y-chromosome linked testis-determining gene SRY in early supporting gonadal cells (ESGC) leads bipotential gonads into ovarian development. However, genetic variants in NR2F2, encoding three isoforms of the transcription factor COUP-TFII, represent a novel cause of SRY-negative 46,XX testicular/ovotesticular differences of sex development (T/OT-DSD). Thus, we hypothesized that COUP-TFII is part of the ovarian developmental network. COUP-TFII is known to be expressed in interstitial/mesenchymal cells giving rise to steroidogenic cells in fetal gonads, however its expression and function in ESGCs have yet to be explored. RESULTS By differentiating induced pluripotent stem cells into bipotential gonad-like cells in vitro and by analyzing single cell RNA-sequencing datasets of human fetal gonads, we identified that NR2F2 expression is highly upregulated during bipotential gonad development along with markers of bipotential state. NR2F2 expression was detected in early cell populations that precede the steroidogenic cell emergence and that retain a multipotent state in the undifferentiated gonad. The ESGCs differentiating into fetal Sertoli cells lost NR2F2 expression, whereas pre-granulosa cells remained NR2F2-positive. When examining the NR2F2 transcript variants individually, we demonstrated that the canonical isoform A, disrupted by frameshift variants previously reported in 46,XX T/OT-DSD patients, is nearly 1000-fold more highly expressed than other isoforms in bipotential gonad-like cells. To investigate the genetic network under COUP-TFII regulation in human gonadal cell context, we generated a NR2F2 knockout (KO) in the human granulosa-like cell line COV434 and studied NR2F2-KO COV434 cell transcriptome. NR2F2 ablation downregulated markers of ESGC and pre-granulosa cells. NR2F2-KO COV434 cells lost the enrichment for female-supporting gonadal progenitor and acquired gene signatures more similar to gonadal interstitial cells. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that COUP-TFII has a role in maintaining a multipotent state necessary for commitment to the ovarian development. We propose that COUP-TFII regulates cell fate during gonad development and impairment of its function may disrupt the transcriptional plasticity of ESGCs. During early gonad development, disruption of ESGC plasticity may drive them into commitment to the testicular pathway, as observed in 46,XX OT-DSD patients with NR2F2 haploinsufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas G A Ferreira
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Endocrinology (LEMT), Endocrinology Division, Department of Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marina M L Kizys
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Endocrinology (LEMT), Endocrinology Division, Department of Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriel A C Gama
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Endocrinology (LEMT), Endocrinology Division, Department of Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Svenja Pachernegg
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Andrew H Sinclair
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Katie L Ayers
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Magnus R Dias-da-Silva
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Endocrinology (LEMT), Endocrinology Division, Department of Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Oh Y, Quiroz E, Wang T, Medina-Laver Y, Redecke SM, Dominguez F, Lydon JP, DeMayo FJ, Wu SP. The NR2F2-HAND2 signaling axis regulates progesterone actions in the uterus at early pregnancy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1229033. [PMID: 37664846 PMCID: PMC10473531 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1229033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial function is dependent on a tight crosstalk between the epithelial and stromal cells of the endometrium. This communication is critical to ensure a fertile uterus and relies on progesterone and estrogen signaling to prepare a receptive uterus for embryo implantation in early pregnancy. One of the key mediators of this crosstalk is the orphan nuclear receptor NR2F2, which regulates uterine epithelial receptivity and stromal cell differentiation. In order to determine the molecular mechanism regulated by NR2F2, RNAseq analysis was conducted on the uterus of PgrCre;Nr2f2f/f mice at Day 3.5 of pregnancy. This transcriptomic analysis demonstrated Nr2f2 ablation in Pgr-expressing cells leads to a reduction of Hand2 expression, increased levels of Hand2 downstream effectors Fgf1 and Fgf18, and a transcriptome manifesting suppressed progesterone signaling with an altered immune baseline. ChIPseq analysis conducted on the Day 3.5 pregnant mouse uterus for NR2F2 demonstrated the majority of NR2F2 occupies genomic regions that have H3K27ac and H3K4me1 histone modifications, including the loci of major uterine transcription regulators Hand2, Egr1, and Zbtb16. Furthermore, functional analysis of an NR2F2 occupying site that is conserved between human and mouse was capable to enhance endogenous HAND2 mRNA expression with the CRISPR activator in human endometrial stroma cells. These data establish the NR2F2 dependent regulation of Hand2 in the stroma and identify a cis-acting element for this action. In summary, our findings reveal a role of the NR2F2-HAND2 regulatory axis that determines the uterine transcriptomic pattern in preparation for the endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeongseok Oh
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
- Department of Life Science and Research Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Elvis Quiroz
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Tianyuan Wang
- Biostatistics & Computational Biology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Yassmin Medina-Laver
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Skylar Montague Redecke
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Francisco Dominguez
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - John P. Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Francesco J. DeMayo
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - San-Pin Wu
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
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Hattori A, Fukami M. Nuclear Receptor Gene Variants Underlying Disorders/Differences of Sex Development through Abnormal Testicular Development. Biomolecules 2023; 13:691. [PMID: 37189438 PMCID: PMC10135730 DOI: 10.3390/biom13040691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonadal development is the first step in human reproduction. Aberrant gonadal development during the fetal period is a major cause of disorders/differences of sex development (DSD). To date, pathogenic variants of three nuclear receptor genes (NR5A1, NR0B1, and NR2F2) have been reported to cause DSD via atypical testicular development. In this review article, we describe the clinical significance of the NR5A1 variants as the cause of DSD and introduce novel findings from recent studies. NR5A1 variants are associated with 46,XY DSD and 46,XX testicular/ovotesticular DSD. Notably, both 46,XX DSD and 46,XY DSD caused by the NR5A1 variants show remarkable phenotypic variability, to which digenic/oligogenic inheritances potentially contribute. Additionally, we discuss the roles of NR0B1 and NR2F2 in the etiology of DSD. NR0B1 acts as an anti-testicular gene. Duplications containing NR0B1 result in 46,XY DSD, whereas deletions encompassing NR0B1 can underlie 46,XX testicular/ovotesticular DSD. NR2F2 has recently been reported as a causative gene for 46,XX testicular/ovotesticular DSD and possibly for 46,XY DSD, although the role of NR2F2 in gonadal development is unclear. The knowledge about these three nuclear receptors provides novel insights into the molecular networks involved in the gonadal development in human fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Hattori
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan;
- Division of Diversity Research, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
| | - Maki Fukami
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan;
- Division of Diversity Research, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
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Philibert P, Déjardin S, Girard M, Durix Q, Gonzalez AA, Mialhe X, Tardat M, Poulat F, Boizet-Bonhoure B. Cocktails of NSAIDs and 17α Ethinylestradiol at Environmentally Relevant Doses in Drinking Water Alter Puberty Onset in Mice Intergenerationally. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065890. [PMID: 36982971 PMCID: PMC10099742 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and 17α-ethinyl-estradiol (EE2) are among the most relevant endocrine-disrupting pharmaceuticals found in the environment, particularly in surface and drinking water due to their incomplete removal via wastewater treatment plants. Exposure of pregnant mice to NSAID therapeutic doses during the sex determination period has a negative impact on gonadal development and fertility in adults; however, the effects of their chronic exposure at lower doses are unknown. In this study, we investigated the impact of chronic exposure to a mixture containing ibuprofen, 2hydroxy-ibuprofen, diclofenac, and EE2 at two environmentally relevant doses (added to the drinking water from fetal life until puberty) on the reproductive tract in F1 exposed mice and their F2 offspring. In F1 animals, exposure delayed male puberty and accelerated female puberty. In post-pubertal F1 testes and ovaries, differentiation/maturation of the different gonad cell types was altered, and some of these modifications were observed also in the non-exposed F2 generation. Transcriptomic analysis of post-pubertal testes and ovaries of F1 (exposed) and F2 animals revealed significant changes in gene expression profiles and enriched pathways, particularly the inflammasome, metabolism and extracellular matrix pathways, compared with controls (non-exposed). This suggested that exposure to these drug cocktails has an intergenerational impact. The identified Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) networks for NSAIDs and EE2, at doses that are relevant to everyday human exposure, will improve the AOP network of the human reproductive system development concerning endocrine disruptor chemicals. It may serve to identify other putative endocrine disruptors for mammalian species based on the expression of biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Philibert
- Développement et Pathologie de la Gonade, Institut de Génétique Humaine, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
- Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, Hôpital Carèmeau, CHU de Nîmes, 30900 Nîmes, France
| | - Stéphanie Déjardin
- Développement et Pathologie de la Gonade, Institut de Génétique Humaine, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Mélissa Girard
- Développement et Pathologie de la Gonade, Institut de Génétique Humaine, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Quentin Durix
- IExplore-RAM, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Montpellier and Institut National de la Santé Et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Anne-Alicia Gonzalez
- MGX-Montpellier GenomiX, UMS Biocampus, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Xavier Mialhe
- MGX-Montpellier GenomiX, UMS Biocampus, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Mathieu Tardat
- Biologie des Séquences Répétées, Institut de Génétique Humaine, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Francis Poulat
- Développement et Pathologie de la Gonade, Institut de Génétique Humaine, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Brigitte Boizet-Bonhoure
- Développement et Pathologie de la Gonade, Institut de Génétique Humaine, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
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9
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Astuto MC, Benford D, Bodin L, Cattaneo I, Halldorsson T, Schlatter J, Sharpe RM, Tarazona J, Younes M. Applying the adverse outcome pathway concept for assessing non-monotonic dose responses: biphasic effect of bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) on testosterone levels. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:313-327. [PMID: 36336711 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03409-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Male reproduction is one of the primary health endpoints identified in rodent studies for some phthalates, such as DEHP (Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate), DBP (Dibutyl phthalate), and BBP (Benzyl butyl phthalate). The reduction in testosterone level was used as an intermediate key event for grouping some phthalates and to establish a reference point for risk assessment. Phthalates, and specifically DEHP, are one of the chemicals for which the greatest number of non-monotonic dose responses (NMDRs) are observed. These NMDRs cover different endpoints and situations, often including testosterone levels. The presence of NMDR has been the subject of some debate within the area of chemical risk assessment, which is traditionally anchored around driving health-based guidance values for apical endpoints that typically follow a clear monotonic dose-response. The consequence of NMDR for chemical risk assessment has recently received considerable attention amongst regulatory agencies, which confirmed its relevance particularly for receptor-mediated effects. The present review explores the relationship between DEHP exposure and testosterone levels, investigating the biological plausibility of the observed NMDRs. The Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) concept is applied to integrate NMDRs into Key Event Relationships (KERs) for exploring a mechanistic understanding of initial key events and possibly associated reproductive and non-reproductive adverse outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Astuto
- European Food Safety Authority, Methodology and Scientific Support Unit and Working Group on Non-Monotonic Dose Responses, Parma, Italy.
| | - D Benford
- European Food Safety Authority, Methodology and Scientific Support Unit and Working Group on Non-Monotonic Dose Responses, Parma, Italy
| | - L Bodin
- European Food Safety Authority, Methodology and Scientific Support Unit and Working Group on Non-Monotonic Dose Responses, Parma, Italy
| | - I Cattaneo
- European Food Safety Authority, Methodology and Scientific Support Unit and Working Group on Non-Monotonic Dose Responses, Parma, Italy
| | - T Halldorsson
- European Food Safety Authority, Methodology and Scientific Support Unit and Working Group on Non-Monotonic Dose Responses, Parma, Italy.,Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - J Schlatter
- European Food Safety Authority, Methodology and Scientific Support Unit and Working Group on Non-Monotonic Dose Responses, Parma, Italy
| | - R M Sharpe
- European Food Safety Authority, Methodology and Scientific Support Unit and Working Group on Non-Monotonic Dose Responses, Parma, Italy
| | - J Tarazona
- European Food Safety Authority, Methodology and Scientific Support Unit and Working Group on Non-Monotonic Dose Responses, Parma, Italy
| | - M Younes
- European Food Safety Authority, Methodology and Scientific Support Unit and Working Group on Non-Monotonic Dose Responses, Parma, Italy
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10
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Bhattacharya I, Dey S. Emerging concepts on Leydig cell development in fetal and adult testis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 13:1086276. [PMID: 36686449 PMCID: PMC9851038 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1086276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Leydig cells (Lc) reside in the interstitial compartment of the testis and are the target of Luteinising hormone (LH) for Testosterone (T) production, thus critically regulates male fertility. Classical histological studies have identified two morphologically different populations of Lc during testicular development [fetal (FLc) and adult (ALc)]. Recent progress in ex vivo cell/organ culture, genome-wide analysis, genetically manipulated mouse models, lineage tracing, and single-cell RNA-seq experiments have revealed the diverse cellular origins with differential transcriptomic and distinct steroidogenic outputs of these populations. FLc originates from both coelomic epithelium and notch-active Nestin-positive perivascular cells located at the gonad-mesonephros borders, and get specified as Nr5a1 (previously known as Ad4BP/SF-1) expressing cells by embryonic age (E) 12.5 days in fetal mouse testes. These cells produce androstenedione (precursor of T, due to lack of HSD17β3 enzyme) and play critical a role in initial virilization and patterning of the male external genitalia. However, in neonatal testis, FLc undergoes massive regression/dedifferentiation and gradually gets replaced by T-producing ALc. Very recent studies suggest a small fraction (5-20%) of FLc still persists in adult testis. Both Nestin-positive perivascular cells and FLc are considered to be the progenitor populations for ALc. This minireview article summarizes the current understanding of Lc development in fetal and adult testes highlighting their common or diverse cellular (progenitor/stem) origins with respective functional significance in both rodents and primates. (227 words).
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, School of Biological Science, Central University of Kerala, Periye, Kerala, India
| | - Souvik Dey
- Manipal Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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11
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Shao J, Wang J, Wen X, Xie J, Huang F, Guan X, Hao X, Duan P, Chen C, Chen H. Effects of aging and macrophages on mice stem Leydig cell proliferation and differentiation in vitro. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1139281. [PMID: 37051204 PMCID: PMC10083278 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1139281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testosterone plays a critical role in maintaining reproductive functions and well-beings of the males. Adult testicular Leydig cells (LCs) produce testosterone and are generated from stem Leydig cells (SLCs) during puberty through adulthood. In addition, macrophages are critical in the SLC regulatory niche for normal testicular function. Age-related reduction in serum testosterone contributes to a number of metabolic and quality-of-life changes in males, as well as age-related changes in immunological functions. How aging and testicular macrophages may affect SLC function is still unclear. METHODS SLCs and macrophages were purified from adult and aged mice via FACS using CD51 as a marker protein. The sorted cells were first characterized and then co-cultured in vitro to examine how aging and macrophages may affect SLC proliferation and differentiation. To elucidate specific aging effects on both cell types, co-culture of sorted SLCs and macrophages were also carried out across two ages. RESULTS CD51+ (weakly positive) and CD51++ (strongly positive) cells expressed typical SLC and macrophage markers, respectively. However, with aging, both cell types increased expression of multiple cytokine genes, such as IL-1b, IL-6 and IL-8. Moreover, old CD51+ SLCs reduced their proliferation and differentiation, with a more significant reduction in differentiation (2X) than proliferation (30%). Age matched CD51++ macrophages inhibited CD51+ SLC development, with a more significant reduction in old cells (60%) than young (40%). Crossed-age co-culture experiments indicated that the age of CD51+ SLCs plays a more significant role in determining age-related inhibitory effects. In LC lineage formation, CD51+ SLC had both reduced LC lineage markers and increased myoid cell lineage markers, suggesting an age-related lineage shift for SLCs. CONCLUSION The results suggest that aging affected both SLC function and their regulatory niche cell, macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Shao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiexia Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xin Wen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiajia Xie
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fu Huang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoju Guan
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xinrui Hao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ping Duan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- *Correspondence: Haolin Chen, ; Congde Chen, ; Ping Duan,
| | - Congde Chen
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- *Correspondence: Haolin Chen, ; Congde Chen, ; Ping Duan,
| | - Haolin Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- *Correspondence: Haolin Chen, ; Congde Chen, ; Ping Duan,
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12
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Zidoune H, Ladjouze A, Chellat-Rezgoune D, Boukri A, Dib SA, Nouri N, Tebibel M, Sifi K, Abadi N, Satta D, Benelmadani Y, Bignon-Topalovic J, El-Zaiat-Munsch M, Bashamboo A, McElreavey K. Novel Genomic Variants, Atypical Phenotypes and Evidence of a Digenic/Oligogenic Contribution to Disorders/Differences of Sex Development in a Large North African Cohort. Front Genet 2022; 13:900574. [PMID: 36110220 PMCID: PMC9468775 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.900574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In a majority of individuals with disorders/differences of sex development (DSD) a genetic etiology is often elusive. However, new genes causing DSD are routinely reported and using the unbiased genomic approaches, such as whole exome sequencing (WES) should result in an increased diagnostic yield. Here, we performed WES on a large cohort of 125 individuals all of Algerian origin, who presented with a wide range of DSD phenotypes. The study excluded individuals with congenital adrenal hypoplasia (CAH) or chromosomal DSD. Parental consanguinity was reported in 36% of individuals. The genetic etiology was established in 49.6% (62/125) individuals of the total cohort, which includes 42.2% (35/83) of 46, XY non-syndromic DSD and 69.2% (27/39) of 46, XY syndromic DSD. No pathogenic variants were identified in the 46, XX DSD cases (0/3). Variants in the AR, HSD17B3, NR5A1 and SRD5A2 genes were the most common causes of DSD. Other variants were identified in genes associated with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH), including the CHD7 and PROKR2. Previously unreported pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants (n = 30) involving 25 different genes were identified in 22.4% of the cohort. Remarkably 11.5% of the 46, XY DSD group carried variants classified as pathogenic/likely pathogenic variant in more than one gene known to cause DSD. The data indicates that variants in PLXNA3, a candidate CHH gene, is unlikely to be involved in CHH. The data also suggest that NR2F2 variants may cause 46, XY DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Housna Zidoune
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, Institut Pasteur, CNRS, Paris, France
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Animal Biology, University Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine, Algeria
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Genetics, University Salah Boubnider Constantine 3, Constantine, Algeria
| | | | - Djalila Chellat-Rezgoune
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Animal Biology, University Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine, Algeria
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Genetics, University Salah Boubnider Constantine 3, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Asma Boukri
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, CHU Ibn Badis Constantine, Constantine, Algeria
| | | | - Nassim Nouri
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, CHU Ibn Badis Constantine, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Meryem Tebibel
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, CHU Beni Messous, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Karima Sifi
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Genetics, University Salah Boubnider Constantine 3, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Noureddine Abadi
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Genetics, University Salah Boubnider Constantine 3, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Dalila Satta
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Animal Biology, University Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine, Algeria
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Genetics, University Salah Boubnider Constantine 3, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Yasmina Benelmadani
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Genetics, University Salah Boubnider Constantine 3, Constantine, Algeria
| | | | | | - Anu Bashamboo
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, Institut Pasteur, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Ken McElreavey
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, Institut Pasteur, CNRS, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Ken McElreavey,
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13
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Abe SI. Behavior and Functional Roles of CD34 + Mesenchymal Cells in Mammalian Testes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:9585. [PMID: 36076981 PMCID: PMC9455925 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian testes consist of seminiferous tubules within which Sertoli cells line up at the periphery and nurse germ cells, and of interstitia that harbor various cells such as peritubular myoid cells (PMCs), Leydig cells (LCs), vascular endothelial cells, immune cells such as macrophages, and mesenchymal (stromal) cells. Morphological studies have recently reported the presence of telocytes with telopodes in the interstitium of adult mouse, rat, and human testes. CD34+PDGFRα+ telocytes with long and moniliform telopodes form reticular networks with various cell types such as LCs, PMCs, and vessels, indicating their potential functions in cell-cell communications and tissue homeostasis. Functional studies have recently been performed on testicular interstitial cells and CD34+ cells, using 3D re-aggregate cultures of dissociated testicular cells, and cell cultures. Direct observation of CD34+ cells and adult LCs (ALCs) revealed that CD34+ cells extend thin cytoplasmic processes (telopodes), move toward the LC-CD34+ cell-re-aggregates, and finally enter into the re-aggregates, indicating the chemotactic behavior of CD34+ telocytes toward ALCs. In mammalian testes, important roles of mesenchymal interstitial cells as stem/progenitors in the differentiation and regeneration of LCs have been reported. Here, reports on testicular telocytes so far obtained are reviewed, and future perspectives on the studies of testicular telocytes are noted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin-Ichi Abe
- Faculty of Health Science, Kumamoto Health Science University, Kumamoto 861-5598, Japan
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14
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Mehanovic S, Pierre KJ, Viger RS, Tremblay JJ. COUP-TFII interacts and functionally cooperates with GATA4 to regulate Amhr2 transcription in mouse MA-10 Leydig cells. Andrology 2022; 10:1411-1425. [PMID: 35973717 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leydig cells produce testosterone and insulin-like 3, two hormones essential for male sex differentiation and reproductive function. The orphan nuclear receptor COUP-TFII and the zinc finger factor GATA4 are two transcription factors involved in Leydig cell differentiation, gene expression and function. OBJECTIVES Several Leydig cell gene promoters contain binding motifs for both GATA factors and nuclear receptors. The goal of present study is to determine whether GATA4 and COUP-TFII cooperate to regulate gene expression in Leydig cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS The transcriptomes from GATA4- and COUP-TFII-depleted MA-10 Leydig cells were analyzed using bioinformatic tools. Functional cooperation between GATA4 and COUP-TFII, and other related family members, was assessed by transient transfections in Leydig (MA-10 and MLTC-1) and fibroblast (CV-1) cell lines on several gene promoters. Recruitment of GATA4 and COUP-TFII to gene promoters was investigated by chromatin immunoprecipitation. Co-immunoprecipitation was used to determine whether GATA4 and COUP-TFII interact in MA-10 Leydig cells. RESULTS Transcriptomic analyses of GATA4- and COUP-TFII-depleted MA-10 Leydig cells revealed 44 commonly regulated genes including the anti-Müllerian hormone receptor (Amhr2) gene. GATA4 and COUP-TFII independently activated the Amhr2 promoter, and their combination led to a stronger activation. A GC-rich element, located in the proximal Amhr2 promoter was found to be essential for GATA4- and COUP-TFII-dependent activation as well as for the COUP-TFII/GATA4 cooperation. COUP-TFII and GATA4 directly interacted in MA-10 Leydig cell extracts. Chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that GATA4 and COUP-TFII are recruited to the proximal Amhr2 promoter, which contains binding sites for both factors in addition to the GC-rich element. Cooperation between COUP-TFII and GATA6, but not GATA1 and GATA3, was also observed. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Our results establish the importance of a physical and functional cooperation between COUP-TFII/GATA4 in the regulation of gene expression in MA-10 Leydig cells, and more specifically the Amhr2 gene. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir Mehanovic
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, CHUL Room T3-67, Québec City, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Kenley Joule Pierre
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, CHUL Room T3-67, Québec City, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Robert S Viger
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, CHUL Room T3-67, Québec City, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada.,Centre for Research in Reproduction, Development and Intergenerational Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Jacques J Tremblay
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, CHUL Room T3-67, Québec City, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada.,Centre for Research in Reproduction, Development and Intergenerational Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
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15
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Mo JY, Yan YS, Lin ZL, Liu R, Liu XQ, Wu HY, Yu JE, Huang YT, Sheng JZ, Huang HF. Gestational diabetes mellitus suppresses fetal testis development in mice. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:148-156. [PMID: 35774031 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is increasing rapidly. In addition to the metabolic disease risks, GDM might increase the risks of cryptorchidism in children. However, its mechanism involved in abnormalities of the male reproductive system is still unclear. The purpose of this study was to study the effects of GDM on the development of mouse fetal Leydig and Sertoli cells. Pregnant mice were treated on gestational day (GD) 6.5 and 12.5 with streptozotocin (STZ, 100 mg/kg) or vehicle (sodium citrate buffer). Leydig and Sertoli cell development and functions were evaluated by investigating serum testosterone levels, cell number and distribution, genes, and protein expression. GDM decreased serum testosterone levels, the anogenital distance, and the level of DHH in Sertoli cells of testes of male offspring. Fetal Leydig cell number was also decreased in testes of GDM offspring by delaying the commitment of stem Leydig cells into the Leydig cell lineage. RNA-seq showed that FOXL2, RSPO1/β-Catenin signaling was activated and Gsk3β signaling was inhibited in GDM offspring testis. In conclusion, GDM disrupted reproductive tract and testis development in mouse male offspring via altering genes related to development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Ying Mo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Zhejiang university school of medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi-Shang Yan
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Zhejiang university school of medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhong-Liang Lin
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Zhejiang university school of medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rui Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Zhejiang university school of medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xuan-Qi Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Zhejiang university school of medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hai-Yan Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Zhejiang university school of medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jia-En Yu
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Zhejiang university school of medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yu-Tong Huang
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Zhejiang university school of medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jian-Zhong Sheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China.,Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Zhejiang university school of medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - He-Feng Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China.,Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Zhejiang university school of medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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16
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Ademi H, Djari C, Mayère C, Neirijnck Y, Sararols P, Rands CM, Stévant I, Conne B, Nef S. Deciphering the origins and fates of steroidogenic lineages in the mouse testis. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110935. [PMID: 35705036 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Leydig cells (LCs) are the major androgen-producing cells in the testis. They arise from steroidogenic progenitors (SPs), whose origins, maintenance, and differentiation dynamics remain largely unknown. Single-cell transcriptomics reveal that the mouse steroidogenic lineage is specified as early as embryonic day 12.5 (E12.5) and has a dual mesonephric and coelomic origin. SPs specifically express the Wnt5a gene and evolve rapidly. At E12.5 and E13.5, they give rise first to an intermediate population of pre-LCs, and finally to fetal LCs. At E16.5, SPs possess the characteristics of the dormant progenitors at the origin of adult LCs and are also transcriptionally closely related to peritubular myoid cells (PMCs). In agreement with our in silico analysis, in vivo lineage tracing indicates that Wnt5a-expressing cells are bona fide progenitors of PMCs as well as fetal and adult LCs, contributing to most of the LCs present in the fetal and adult testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herta Ademi
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Cyril Djari
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chloé Mayère
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Yasmine Neirijnck
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pauline Sararols
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chris M Rands
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Isabelle Stévant
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Béatrice Conne
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
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17
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COUP-TFII in Kidneys, from Embryos to Sick Adults. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12051181. [PMID: 35626336 PMCID: PMC9139597 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12051181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter-transcription factor II (COUP-TFII) is an orphan nuclear hormone receptor of unknown ligands. This molecule has two interesting features: (1) it is a developmental gene, and (2) it is a potential hormone receptor. Here, we describe the possible roles of COUP-TFII in the organogenesis of the kidneys and protection from adult renal diseases, primarily in mouse models. COUP-TFII is highly expressed in embryos, including primordial kidneys, and is essential for the formation of metanephric mesenchyme and the survival of renal precursor cells. Although the expression levels of COUP-TFII are low and its functions are unknown in healthy adults, it serves as a reno-protectant molecule against acute kidney injury. These are good examples of how developmental genes exhibit novel functions in the etiology of adult diseases. We also discuss the ongoing research on the roles of COUP-TFII in podocyte development and diabetic kidney disease. In addition, the identification of potential ligands suggests that COUP-TFII might be a novel therapeutic target for renal diseases in the future.
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18
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de Mattos K, Viger RS, Tremblay JJ. Transcription Factors in the Regulation of Leydig Cell Gene Expression and Function. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:881309. [PMID: 35464056 PMCID: PMC9022205 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.881309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell differentiation and acquisition of specialized functions are inherent steps in events that lead to normal tissue development and function. These processes require accurate temporal, tissue, and cell-specific activation or repression of gene transcription. This is achieved by complex interactions between transcription factors that form a unique combinatorial code in each specialized cell type and in response to different physiological signals. Transcription factors typically act by binding to short, nucleotide-specific DNA sequences located in the promoter region of target genes. In males, Leydig cells play a crucial role in sex differentiation, health, and reproductive function from embryonic life to adulthood. To better understand the molecular mechanisms regulating Leydig cell differentiation and function, several transcription factors important to Leydig cells have been identified, including some previously unknown to this specialized cell type. This mini review summarizes the current knowledge on transcription factors in fetal and adult Leydig cells, describing their roles and mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine de Mattos
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Robert S. Viger
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Jacques J. Tremblay
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Jacques J. Tremblay,
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19
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McElreavey K, Bashamboo A. Monogenic forms of DSD: An update. Horm Res Paediatr 2021; 96:144-168. [PMID: 34963118 DOI: 10.1159/000521381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
DSD encompasses a wide range of pathologies that impact gonad formation, development and function in both 46,XX and 46,XY individuals. The majority of these conditions are considered to be monogenic, although the expression of the phenotype may be influenced by genetic modifiers. Although considered monogenic, establishing the genetic etiology in DSD has been difficult compared to other congenital disorders for a number of reasons including the absence of family cases for classical genetic association studies and the lack of evolutionary conservation of key genetic factors involved in gonad formation. In recent years, the widespread use of genomic sequencing technologies has resulted in multiple genes being identified and proposed as novel monogenic causes of 46,XX and/or 46,XY DSD. In this review, we will focus on the main genomic findings of recent years, which consists of new candidate genes or loci for DSD as well as new reproductive phenotypes associated with genes that are well established to cause DSD. For each gene or loci, we summarise the data that is currently available in favor of or against a role for these genes in DSD or the contribution of genomic variants within well-established genes to a new reproductive phenotype. Based on this analysis we propose a series of recommendations that should aid the interpretation of genomic data and ultimately help to improve the accuracy and yield genetic diagnosis of DSD.
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20
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Heydari R, Seresht-Ahmadi M, Mirshahvaladi S, Sabbaghian M, Mohseni-Meybodi A. KIF3B gene silent variant leading to sperm morphology and motility defects and male infertility. Biol Reprod 2021; 106:766-774. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Sperm structural and functional defects are leading causes of male infertility. Patients with immotile sperm disorders suffer from axoneme failure and show a significant reduction in sperm count. The kinesin family member 3B (KIF3B) is one of the genes involved in the proper formation of sperm with a critical role in intraflagellar and intramanchette transport. A part of exon 2 and exons 3–5 of the KIF3B encodes a protein coiled-coil domain that interacts with IFT20 from the IFT protein complex. In the present study, the coding region of KIF3B coiled-coil domain was assessed in 88 oligoasthenoteratozoospermic patients, and the protein expression was evaluated in the mature spermatozoa of the case and control groups using immunocytochemistry and western blotting. According to the results, there was no genetic variation in the exons 3–5 of the KIF3B, but a new A > T variant was identified within the exon 2 in 30 patients, where nothing was detected in the control group. In contrast to healthy individuals, significantly reduced protein expression was observable in oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) patients carrying variation where protein organization was disarranged, especially in the principal piece and midpiece of the sperm tail. Besides, the protein expression level was lower in the patients’ samples compared to that of the control group. According to the results of the present study the NM_004798.3:c.1032A > T, p.Pro344 = variant; which has been recently submitted to the Clinvar database; although synonymous, causes alterations in the transcription factor binding site, exon skipping, and also exonic splicing enhancer-binding site. Therefore, KIF3B can play an important role in spermatogenesis and the related protein reduction can cause male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheleh Heydari
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrshad Seresht-Ahmadi
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahab Mirshahvaladi
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology at Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Marjan Sabbaghian
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Anahita Mohseni-Meybodi
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Molecular Diagnostics Division, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
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21
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Vallabhaneni S, Liu J, Morel M, Wang J, DeMayo FJ, Long W. Conditional ERK3 overexpression cooperates with PTEN deletion to promote lung adenocarcinoma formation in mice. Mol Oncol 2021; 16:1184-1199. [PMID: 34719109 PMCID: PMC8895443 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
ERK3, officially known as mitogen‐activated protein kinase 6 (MAPK6), is a poorly studied mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK). Recent studies have revealed the upregulation of ERK3 expression in cancer and suggest an important role for ERK3 in promoting cancer cell growth and invasion in some cancers, in particular lung cancer. However, it is unknown whether ERK3 plays a role in spontaneous tumorigenesis in vivo. To determine the role of ERK3 in lung tumorigenesis, we created a conditional ERK3 transgenic mouse line in which ERK3 transgene expression is controlled by Cre recombinase. By crossing these transgenic mice with a mouse line harboring a lung tissue–specific Cre recombinase transgene driven by a club cell secretory protein gene promoter (CCSP‐iCre), we have found that conditional ERK3 overexpression cooperates with phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) deletion to induce the formation of lung adenocarcinomas (LUADs). Mechanistically, ERK3 overexpression stimulates activating phosphorylations of erb‐b2 receptor tyrosine kinases 2 and 3 (ERBB2 and ERBB3) by upregulating Sp1 transcription factor (SP1)–mediated gene transcription of neuregulin 1 (NRG1), a potent ligand for ERBB2/ERBB3. Our study has revealed a bona fide tumor‐promoting role for ERK3 using genetically engineered mouse models. Together with previous findings showing the roles of ERK3 in cultured cells and in a xenograft lung tumor model, our findings corroborate that ERK3 acts as an oncoprotein in promoting LUAD development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreeram Vallabhaneni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Jian Liu
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJU-UoE Institute), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, International Campus, Zhejiang University, Haining, 314400, China.,Hangzhou Cancer Institution, Affiliated Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310002, China
| | - Marion Morel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Jixin Wang
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJU-UoE Institute), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, International Campus, Zhejiang University, Haining, 314400, China.,Hangzhou Cancer Institution, Affiliated Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310002, China
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive & Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), Research Triangle Park (RTP), NC, USA
| | - Weiwen Long
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
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22
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Yu X, Xu J. A 'Goldmine' for digging cancer-specific targets: the genes essential for embryo development but non-essential for adult life. J Mol Cell Biol 2021; 12:669-673. [PMID: 32470104 PMCID: PMC7749735 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjaa024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobin Yu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jianming Xu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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23
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Development of a putative adverse outcome pathway network for male rat reproductive tract abnormalities with specific considerations for the androgen sensitive window of development. Curr Res Toxicol 2021; 2:254-271. [PMID: 34401750 PMCID: PMC8350458 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Structured approaches like the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework offer great potential for depicting complex toxicological processes in a manner that can facilitate informed integration of mechanistic information in regulatory decisions. While this concept provides a structure for organizing evidence and facilitates consistency in evidence integration; the process, inputs, and manner in which AOPs and AOP networks are developed is still evolving. Following the OECD guiding principles of AOP development, we propose three AOPs for male reproductive tract abnormalities and derive a putative AOP network. The AOPs were developed using a fundamental understanding of the developmental biology of the organs of interest, paying close attention to the gestational timing of key events (KEs) to very specifically inform the domain of life stage applicability for the key event relationships (KERs). Chemical stressor data primarily from studies on low molecular weight phthalates (LMWPs) served to 'bound' the pathways of focus in this dynamic period of development and were integrated with the developmental biology data through an iterative process to define KEs and conclude on the extent of evidence in support of the KERs. The AOPs developed describe the linkage between 1) a decrease in Insl3 gene expression and cryptorchidism, 2) the sustained expression of Coup-tfII and hypospadias and 3) the sustained expression of Coup-tfII and altered Wolffian duct development/ epididymal agenesis. A putative AOP network linking AOP2 and AOP3 through decreased steroidogenic biosynthetic protein expression and converging of all AOPS at the population level impaired fertility adverse outcome is proposed. The network depiction specifies and displays the KEs aligned with their occurrence in gestational time. The pathways and network described herein are intended to catalyze collaborative initiatives for expansion into a larger network to enable effective data collection and inform alternative approaches for identifying stressors impacting this sensitive period of male reproductive tract development.
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Key Words
- AGD, Anogenital distance
- AO, Adverse Outcome
- AOP, Adverse Outcome Pathway
- Adverse outcome pathway
- Adverse outcome pathway network
- DBP, Dibutyl phthalate
- DEHP, Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate
- DHT, 5α-dihydrotestosterone
- DPP, Dipentyl phthalate
- E, Embryonic day (ED1=GD1 gestational day 1)
- GD, Gestational day (GD1=ED1 embryonic day 1)
- KE, Key event
- KER, Key event relationship
- LMWP, low molecular weight phthalate straight chain length of the esterified alcohols between 3 and 6 carbon atoms
- MPW, male programming window
- Male programming window
- Phthalate
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24
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Advances in stem cell research for the treatment of primary hypogonadism. Nat Rev Urol 2021; 18:487-507. [PMID: 34188209 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-021-00480-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In Leydig cell dysfunction, cells respond weakly to stimulation by pituitary luteinizing hormone, and, therefore, produce less testosterone, leading to primary hypogonadism. The most widely used treatment for primary hypogonadism is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). However, TRT causes infertility and has been associated with other adverse effects, such as causing erythrocytosis and gynaecomastia, worsening obstructive sleep apnoea and increasing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality risks. Stem-cell-based therapy that re-establishes testosterone-producing cell lineages in the body has, therefore, become a promising prospect for treating primary hypogonadism. Over the past two decades, substantial advances have been made in the identification of Leydig cell sources for use in transplantation surgery, including the artificial induction of Leydig-like cells from different types of stem cells, for example, stem Leydig cells, mesenchymal stem cells, and pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). PSC-derived Leydig-like cells have already provided a powerful in vitro model to study the molecular mechanisms underlying Leydig cell differentiation and could be used to treat men with primary hypogonadism in a more specific and personalized approach.
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25
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Mehanovic S, Mendoza-Villarroel RE, Mattos K, Talbot P, Viger RS, Tremblay JJ. Identification of novel genes and pathways regulated by the orphan nuclear receptor COUP-TFII in mouse MA-10 Leydig cells†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1283-1306. [PMID: 34225363 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In males, Leydig cells are the main producers of testosterone and insulin-like 3 (INSL3), two hormones essential for sex differentiation and reproductive functions. Chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter-transcription factors I (COUP-TFI/NR2F1) and COUP-TFII (NR2F2) belong to the steroid/thyroid hormone nuclear receptor superfamily of transcription factors. In the testis, COUP-TFII is expressed and plays a role in the differentiation of cells committed to give rise to fully functional steroidogenic adult Leydig cells. Steroid production has also been shown to be diminished in COUP-TFII-depleted Leydig cells, indicating an important functional role in steroidogenesis. Until now, only a handful of target genes have been identified for COUP-TFII in Leydig cells. To provide new information into the mechanism of action of COUP-TFII in Leydig cells, we performed microarray analyses of COUP-TFII-depleted MA-10 Leydig cells. We identified 262 differentially expressed genes in COUP-TFII-depleted MA-10 cells. Many of the differentially expressed genes are known to be involved in lipid biosynthesis, lipid metabolism, male gonad development, and steroidogenesis. We validated the microarray data for a subset of the modulated genes by RT-qPCR. Downregulated genes included Hsd3b1, Cyp11a1, Prlr, Shp/Nr0b2, Fdx1, Scarb1, Inha and Gsta3. Finally, analysis of the Gsta3 and Inha gene promoters showed that at least two of the downregulated genes are potentially new direct targets for COUP-TFII. These data provide new evidence that further strengthens the important nature of COUP-TFII in steroidogenesis, androgen homeostasis, cellular defense, and differentiation in mouse Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir Mehanovic
- Recipient of a doctoral studentship from the Fondation du CHU de Québec-Université Laval.,Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, CHUL Room T3-67, Québec City, Québec, Canada, G1V 4G2
| | - Raifish E Mendoza-Villarroel
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, CHUL Room T3-67, Québec City, Québec, Canada, G1V 4G2
| | - Karine Mattos
- Recipient of a doctoral studentship from the Fondation du CHU de Québec-Université Laval.,Recipient of a doctoral studentship from the Fonds de recherche du Québec-Santé.,Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, CHUL Room T3-67, Québec City, Québec, Canada, G1V 4G2
| | - Philippe Talbot
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, CHUL Room T3-67, Québec City, Québec, Canada, G1V 4G2
| | - Robert S Viger
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, CHUL Room T3-67, Québec City, Québec, Canada, G1V 4G2.,Centre for Research in Reproduction, Development and Intergenerational Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada, G1V 0A6
| | - Jacques J Tremblay
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, CHUL Room T3-67, Québec City, Québec, Canada, G1V 4G2.,Centre for Research in Reproduction, Development and Intergenerational Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada, G1V 0A6
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26
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Shen YC, Shami AN, Moritz L, Larose H, Manske GL, Ma Q, Zheng X, Sukhwani M, Czerwinski M, Sultan C, Chen H, Gurczynski SJ, Spence JR, Orwig KE, Tallquist M, Li JZ, Hammoud SS. TCF21 + mesenchymal cells contribute to testis somatic cell development, homeostasis, and regeneration in mice. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3876. [PMID: 34162856 PMCID: PMC8222243 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24130-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular development and function rely on interactions between somatic cells and the germline, but similar to other organs, regenerative capacity declines in aging and disease. Whether the adult testis maintains a reserve progenitor population remains uncertain. Here, we characterize a recently identified mouse testis interstitial population expressing the transcription factor Tcf21. We found that TCF21lin cells are bipotential somatic progenitors present in fetal testis and ovary, maintain adult testis homeostasis during aging, and act as potential reserve somatic progenitors following injury. In vitro, TCF21lin cells are multipotent mesenchymal progenitors which form multiple somatic lineages including Leydig and myoid cells. Additionally, TCF21+ cells resemble resident fibroblast populations reported in other organs having roles in tissue homeostasis, fibrosis, and regeneration. Our findings reveal that the testis, like other organs, maintains multipotent mesenchymal progenitors that can be potentially leveraged in development of future therapies for hypoandrogenism and/or infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chi Shen
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Lindsay Moritz
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Hailey Larose
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gabriel L Manske
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Qianyi Ma
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Xianing Zheng
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Meena Sukhwani
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Integrative Systems Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michael Czerwinski
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Caleb Sultan
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Haolin Chen
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, John Hopkins, USA
| | | | - Jason R Spence
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Integrative Systems Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michelle Tallquist
- University of Hawaii, Center for Cardiovascular Research, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Jun Z Li
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Saher Sue Hammoud
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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27
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Sinnott-Armstrong N, Naqvi S, Rivas M, Pritchard JK. GWAS of three molecular traits highlights core genes and pathways alongside a highly polygenic background. eLife 2021; 10:e58615. [PMID: 33587031 PMCID: PMC7884075 DOI: 10.7554/elife.58615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been used to study the genetic basis of a wide variety of complex diseases and other traits. We describe UK Biobank GWAS results for three molecular traits-urate, IGF-1, and testosterone-with better-understood biology than most other complex traits. We find that many of the most significant hits are readily interpretable. We observe huge enrichment of associations near genes involved in the relevant biosynthesis, transport, or signaling pathways. We show how GWAS data illuminate the biology of each trait, including differences in testosterone regulation between females and males. At the same time, even these molecular traits are highly polygenic, with many thousands of variants spread across the genome contributing to trait variance. In summary, for these three molecular traits we identify strong enrichment of signal in putative core gene sets, even while most of the SNP-based heritability is driven by a massively polygenic background.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sahin Naqvi
- Department of Genetics, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| | - Manuel Rivas
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| | - Jonathan K Pritchard
- Department of Genetics, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
- Department of Biology, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
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28
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Ham J, You S, Lim W, Song G. Pyridaben induces mitochondrial dysfunction and leads to latent male reproductive abnormalities. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 171:104731. [PMID: 33357553 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2020.104731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
As an organochloride pesticide, pyridaben (PDB) has been used on various plants, including fruiting plants and other crops. Because of emerging concerns regarding exposure to pesticides, the deleterious effects of PDB, including neuronal disease and reproductive abnormalities, have been determined. However, the intracellular mechanisms that contribute to the effects of PDB on the male reproductive system are still unknown. Therefore, we investigated the effects of PDB on the male reproductive organ, focusing on the testes using mouse testicular cells. We demonstrated that PDB suppressed cellular proliferation of mouse Leydig (TM3) and Sertoli (TM4) cells. Additionally, PDB disturbed calcium homeostasis via mitochondrial dysfunction and activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress. Furthermore, PDB inhibited transcriptional gene expression regarding the cell cycle, as well as steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis, which are the primary functions of TM3 and TM4 cells. Moreover, we verified via western blot analysis that PDB dysregulated the intracellular cell signaling pathways in mitochondrial-associated membranes and the Mapk/Pi3k pathway. Lastly, we confirmed that PDB efficiently suppressed the spheroid formation of TM3 and TM4 cells mimicking an in vivo environment. Collectively, the current results indicate that PDB induces testicular toxicity and male reproductive abnormalities by inducing mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress and calcium imbalance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon Ham
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungkwon You
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Whasun Lim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea.
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29
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Wu K, Li Y, Pan P, Li Z, Yu Y, Huang J, Ma F, Tian L, Fang Y, Wang Y, Lin H, Ge RS. Gestational vinclozolin exposure suppresses fetal testis development in rats. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2020; 203:111053. [PMID: 32888615 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Vinclozolin is a common dicarboximide fungicide used to protect crops from diseases. It is also an endocrine disruptor and is thought to be related to abnormalities of the reproductive tract. However, its mechanism of inducing abnormalities of the male reproductive tract is still unclear. The purpose of this study was to study the effect of gestational vinclozolin exposure on the development of rat fetal Leydig cells. Female pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to vinclozolin (0, 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg body weight/day) by gavage from gestational day 14-21. Vinclozolin dose-dependently reduced serum testosterone levels at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg and the anogenital distance at 100 mg/kg. RNA-seq, qPCR, and Western blotting showed that vinclozolin down-regulated the expression of Nr5a1, Sox9, Lhcgr, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, Hsd17b3, Amh, Pdgfa, and Dhh and their encoded proteins. Vinclozolin reduced the number of NR2F2-positive stem Leydig cells at a dose of 100 mg/kg and enhanced autophagy in the testes. In conclusion, vinclozolin disrupts reproductive tract development and testis development in male fetal rats via several pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keyang Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Peipei Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Zengqiang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Yige Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Jianjian Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Feifei Ma
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Lili Tian
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Yinghui Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Han Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China.
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China.
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Pan P, Ma F, Wu K, Yu Y, Li Y, Li Z, Chen X, Huang T, Wang Y, Ge RS. Maternal exposure to zearalenone in masculinization window affects the fetal Leydig cell development in rat male fetus. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 263:114357. [PMID: 32229375 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.114357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Zearalenone is a phenolic Fusarium mycotoxin, which is ubiquitous in human and animal feedstuff and often co-occurs with other mycotoxins. ZEA has been reported to disturb Leydig cell function and even cause the apoptosis to the Leydig cells. However, the effects of gestational exposure to zearalenone on fetal Leydig cells and the underlying mechanism remain unknown. Sprague Dawley dams were daily gavaged with 0, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg body weight ZEA from gestational day 14-21. On gestational day 21, rats were euthanized and serum testosterone levels were measured, and testes were collected for further evaluation of Leydig cell number, cell size, gene, and protein expression. Zearalenone significantly decreased anogenital distance and its index of male fetus, serum testosterone levels, Leydig cell proteins (SCARB1, STAR, CYP11A1, CYP17A1, and INSL3), and fetal Leydig cell number at 10 and/or 20 mg/kg by delaying the commitment of stem Leydig cells into the Leydig cell lineage and proliferation. Further study found that Notch signaling (RFNG, PSEN1, NOTCH1, and NOTCH3) was up-regulated by zearalenone. In conclusion, gestational exposure to high doses of zearalenone (10 and 20 mg/kg) blocks fetal Leydig cell development, thus possibly causing the anomalies of the male reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Feifei Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Keyang Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Yige Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Zengqiang Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Xiuxiu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Tongliang Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China.
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GLI3 resides at the intersection of hedgehog and androgen action to promote male sex differentiation. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008810. [PMID: 32497091 PMCID: PMC7297385 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Urogenital tract abnormalities are among the most common congenital defects in humans. Male urogenital development requires Hedgehog-GLI signaling and testicular hormones, but how these pathways interact is unclear. We found that Gli3XtJ mutant mice exhibit cryptorchidism and hypospadias due to local effects of GLI3 loss and systemic effects of testicular hormone deficiency. Fetal Leydig cells, the sole source of these hormones in developing testis, were reduced in numbers in Gli3XtJ testes, and their functional identity diminished over time. Androgen supplementation partially rescued testicular descent but not hypospadias in Gli3XtJ mutants, decoupling local effects of GLI3 loss from systemic effects of androgen insufficiency. Reintroduction of GLI3 activator (GLI3A) into Gli3XtJ testes restored expression of Hedgehog pathway and steroidogenic genes. Together, our results show a novel function for the activated form of GLI3 that translates Hedgehog signals to reinforce fetal Leydig cell identity and stimulate timely INSL3 and testosterone synthesis in the developing testis. In turn, exquisite timing and concentrations of testosterone are required to work alongside local GLI3 activity to control development of a functionally integrated male urogenital tract. Disorders in male sex differentiation (DSD) are among the most common defects in all live births, yet in many cases, pediatric patient families are reluctant to address the issue and endure lifelong consequences. Urogenital tract development, as in many organ systems, depends on exquisite timing among layers of a number of signaling pathways. Here, we show that interactions between the hedgehog and androgen signaling pathways are required for the development of internal and external male sex characteristics, but results for each tissue is distinct. This new knowledge will aid in discovering the means by which congenital malformations might occur, identify potential developmental targets that might be vulnerable to environmental exposures, and promote new ideas for how they might be prevented.
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Polvani S, Pepe S, Milani S, Galli A. COUP-TFII in Health and Disease. Cells 2019; 9:E101. [PMID: 31906104 PMCID: PMC7016888 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuclear receptors (NRs) belong to a vast family of evolutionary conserved proteins acting as ligand-activated transcription factors. Functionally, NRs are essential in embryogenesis and organogenesis and in adulthood they are involved in almost every physiological and pathological process. Our knowledge of NRs action has greatly improved in recent years, demonstrating that both their expression and activity are tightly regulated by a network of signaling pathways, miRNA and reciprocal interactions. The Chicken Ovalbumin Upstream Promoter Transcription Factor II (COUP-TFII, NR2F2) is a NR classified as an orphan due to the lack of a known natural ligand. Although its expression peaks during development, and then decreases considerably, in adult tissues, COUP-TFII is an important regulator of differentiation and it is variably implicated in tissues homeostasis. As such, alterations of its expression or its transcriptional activity have been studied and linked to a spectrum of diseases in organs and tissues of different origins. Indeed, an altered COUP-TFII expression and activity may cause infertility, abnormality in the vascular system and metabolic diseases like diabetes. Moreover, COUP-TFII is actively investigated in cancer research but its role in tumor progression is yet to be fully understood. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of COUP-TFII in healthy and pathological conditions, proposing an updated and critical view of the many functions of this NR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Polvani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Florence, viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Firenze, Italy; (S.P.); (S.M.)
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, largo Brambilla 50, 50139 Firenze, Italy
| | - Sara Pepe
- Istituto per la Ricerca, la Prevenzione e la rete Oncologica (ISPRO), viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Firenze, Italy;
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, via M. Bracci 16, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Milani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Florence, viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Firenze, Italy; (S.P.); (S.M.)
| | - Andrea Galli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Florence, viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Firenze, Italy; (S.P.); (S.M.)
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Guan X, Chen P, Zhao X, Hao X, Chen F, Ji M, Wen X, Lin H, Ye L, Chen H. Characterization of stem cells associated with seminiferous tubule of adult rat testis for their potential to form Leydig cells. Stem Cell Res 2019; 41:101593. [PMID: 31704538 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2019.101593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult testicular Leydig cells arise from stem cells in the neonatal and adult testis. The nature of these stem Leydig cells (SLCs) have not been well characterized. We have found previously that a group cells expressing CD90, a cell surface glycoprotein that may play roles in cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions and associated with the seminiferous tubule surface, have the ability to form Leydig cells. As yet, the relationship between this CD90+ cell population and SLCs reported previously by other groups is still unknown. In the present study, we systematically characterized these CD90+ cells by their ability to express multiple potential SLC markers and to proliferate and differentiate into Leydig cells in vitro. First, we have found by qPCR and immunohistochemical staining that the CD90+ cells do not express any of the markers of the common seminiferous tubular cells, including myoid, Sertoli, germ and Leydig cells, as well as macrophages. Moreover, when the CD90+ cells were isolated by fluorescent-sorting, the cells expressed high levels of all the potential SLC marker genes, including Nestin, Cd51, Coup-tf2, Arx, Pdgfra and Tcf21. Also, CD90-positive, but not -negative, cells were able to form Leydig cells in vitro with the proper inducing medium. Overall, the results indicated that the tubule-associated CD90+ cells represent a population of SLC in adult testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoju Guan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Panpan Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xingxing Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xinrui Hao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Fenfen Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Minpeng Ji
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xin Wen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Han Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Leping Ye
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, No.1 Xi'an Men Street, West District, Beijing, 100034, China.
| | - Haolin Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
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Directing differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells toward androgen-producing Leydig cells rather than adrenal cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:23274-23283. [PMID: 31591190 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1908207116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Reduced serum testosterone (T), or hypogonadism, affects millions of men and is associated with many pathologies, including infertility, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, and decreased libido and sexual function. Administering T-replacement therapy (TRT) reverses many of the symptoms associated with low T levels. However, TRT is linked to side effects such as infertility and increased risk of prostate cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Thus, there is a need to obtain T-producing cells that could be used to treat hypogonadism via transplantation and reestablishment of T-producing cell lineages in the body. T is synthesized by Leydig cells (LCs), proposed to derive from mesenchymal cells of mesonephric origin. Although mesenchymal cells have been successfully induced into LCs, the limited source and possible trauma to donors hinders their application to clinical therapies. Alternatively, human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), which are expandable in culture and have the potential to differentiate into all somatic cell types, have become the emerging source of autologous cell therapies. We have successfully induced the differentiation of hiPSCs into either human Leydig-like (hLLCs) or adrenal-like cells (hALCs) using chemically defined culture conditions. Factors critical for the development of LCs were added to both culture systems. hLLCs expressed all steroidogenic genes and proteins important for T biosynthesis, synthesized T rather than cortisol, secreted steroid hormones in response to dibutyryl-cAMP and 22(R)-hydroxycholesterol, and displayed ultrastructural features resembling LCs. By contrast, hALCs synthesized cortisol rather than T. The success in generating hiPSC-derived hLLCs with broad human LC (hLC) features supports the potential for hiPSC-based hLC regeneration.
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Mehanovic S, Mendoza-Villarroel RE, Viger RS, Tremblay JJ. The Nuclear Receptor COUP-TFII Regulates Amhr2 Gene Transcription via a GC-Rich Promoter Element in Mouse Leydig Cells. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:2236-2257. [PMID: 31723721 PMCID: PMC6839530 DOI: 10.1210/js.2019-00266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The nuclear receptor chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter–transcription factor type II (COUP-TFII)/NR2F2 is expressed in adult Leydig cells, and conditional deletion of the Coup-tfii/Nr2f2 gene impedes their differentiation. Steroid production is also reduced in COUP-TFII–depleted Leydig cells, supporting an additional role in steroidogenesis for this transcription factor. COUP-TFII action in Leydig cells remains to be fully characterized. In the present work, we report that COUP-TFII is an essential regulator of the gene encoding the anti-Müllerian hormone receptor type 2 (Amhr2), which participates in Leydig cell differentiation and steroidogenesis. We found that Amhr2 mRNA levels are reduced in COUP-TFII–depleted MA-10 Leydig cells. Consistent with this, COUP-TFII directly activates a −1486 bp fragment of the mouse Amhr2 promoter in transient transfection assays. The COUP-TFII responsive region was localized between −67 and −34 bp. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay confirmed COUP-TFII recruitment to the proximal Amhr2 promoter whereas DNA precipitation assay revealed that COUP-TFII associates with the −67/−34 bp region in vitro. Even though the −67/−34 bp region contains an imperfect nuclear receptor element, COUP-TFII–mediated activation of the Amhr2 promoter requires a GC-rich sequence at −39 bp known to bind the specificity protein (SP)1 transcription factor. COUP-TFII transcriptionally cooperates with SP1 on the Amhr2 promoter. Mutations that altered the GCGGGGCGG sequence at −39 bp abolished COUP-TFII–mediated activation, COUP-TFII/SP1 cooperation, and reduced COUP-TFII binding to the proximal Amhr2 promoter. Our data provide a better understanding of the mechanism of COUP-TFII action in Leydig cells through the identification and regulation of the Amhr2 promoter as a novel target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir Mehanovic
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Raifish E Mendoza-Villarroel
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Robert S Viger
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.,Centre for Research in Reproduction, Development and Intergenerational Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jacques J Tremblay
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.,Centre for Research in Reproduction, Development and Intergenerational Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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Chen P, Guan X, Zhao X, Chen F, Yang J, Wang Y, Hu Y, Lian Q, Chen H. Characterization and differentiation of CD51 + Stem Leydig cells in adult mouse testes. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 493:110449. [PMID: 31102608 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
It was reported previously that adult mouse stem Leydig cells (SLCs) express CD51 (integrin α-chain V). However, it is still unclear whether all CD51+ cells are SLCs. In the present study, we found that CD51+ cells can be classified into two sub-groups, a weakly-staining group (CD51+) and a strongly-staining group (CD51++). The CD51+ cells expressed common SLC marker genes, including Nestin, Pdgfra and Coup-tf2, while CD51++ cells did not express these genes. Instead, they expressed macrophage markers, such as F4/80, Cd115 and Tnfa. When these cells were induced to differentiate in vitro, the CD51+ cells, but not CD51++ cells, formed Leydig cells. Overall, our results showed that although SLCs expressed CD51, not all CD51-expressing cells are SLCs. The cells that expressed high levels of CD51 are actually macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xiaoju Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Xingxing Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Fenfen Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Jianying Yang
- College of Medical Technology and Engineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan, 471023, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Yue Hu
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Qingquan Lian
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Haolin Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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37
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Candelaria NR, Padmanabhan A, Stossi F, Ljungberg MC, Shelly KE, Pew BK, Solis M, Rossano AM, McAllister JM, Wu S, Richards JS. VCAM1 Is Induced in Ovarian Theca and Stromal Cells in a Mouse Model of Androgen Excess. Endocrinology 2019; 160:1377-1393. [PMID: 30951142 PMCID: PMC6507908 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian theca androgen production is regulated by the pituitary LH and intrafollicular factors. Enhanced androgen biosynthesis by theca cells contributes to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women, but the ovarian consequences of elevated androgens are not completely understood. Our study documents the molecular events that are altered in the theca and stromal cells of mice exposed to high androgen levels, using the nonaromatizable androgen DHT. Changes in ovarian morphology and function were observed not only in follicles, but also in the stromal compartment. Genome-wide microarray analyses revealed marked changes in the ovarian transcriptome of DHT-treated females within 1 week. Particularly striking was the increased expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (Vcam1) specifically in the NR2F2/COUPTF-II lineage theca cells, not granulosa cells, of growing follicles and throughout the stroma of the androgen-treated mice. This response was mediated by androgen receptors (ARs) present in theca and stromal cells. Human theca-derived cultures expressed both ARs and NR2F2 that were nuclear. VCAM1 mRNA and protein were higher in PCOS-derived theca cells compared with control theca and reduced markedly by the AR antagonist flutamide. In the DHT-treated mice, VCAM1 was transiently induced by equine chorionic gonadotropin, when androgen and estrogen biosynthesis peak in preovulatory follicles, and was potently suppressed by a superovulatory dose of human chorionic gonadotropin. High levels of VCAM1 in the theca and interstitial cells of DHT-treated mice and in adult Leydig cells indicate that there may be novel functions for VCAM1 in reproductive tissues, including the gonads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholes R Candelaria
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Correspondence: Nicholes R. Candelaria, PhD, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030. E-mail:
| | - Achuth Padmanabhan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Fabio Stossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Integrated Microscopy Core, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - M Cecilia Ljungberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurologic Research Institute at Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Katharine E Shelly
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Braden K Pew
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Minerva Solis
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Ayane M Rossano
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Jan M McAllister
- Department of Pathology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Sheng Wu
- Department of Pediatrics and Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - JoAnne S Richards
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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38
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Deciphering Cell Lineage Specification during Male Sex Determination with Single-Cell RNA Sequencing. Cell Rep 2019; 22:1589-1599. [PMID: 29425512 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The gonad is a unique biological system for studying cell-fate decisions. However, major questions remain regarding the identity of somatic progenitor cells and the transcriptional events driving cell differentiation. Using time-series single-cell RNA sequencing on XY mouse gonads during sex determination, we identified a single population of somatic progenitor cells prior to sex determination. A subset of these progenitors differentiates into Sertoli cells, a process characterized by a highly dynamic genetic program consisting of sequential waves of gene expression. Another subset of multipotent cells maintains their progenitor state but undergoes significant transcriptional changes restricting their competence toward a steroidogenic fate required for the differentiation of fetal Leydig cells. Our findings confirm the presence of a unique multipotent progenitor population in the gonadal primordium that gives rise to both supporting and interstitial lineages. These also provide the most granular analysis of the transcriptional events occurring during testicular cell-fate commitment.
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39
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A perivascular niche for multipotent progenitors in the fetal testis. Nat Commun 2018; 9:4519. [PMID: 30375389 PMCID: PMC6207726 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-06996-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens responsible for male sexual differentiation in utero are produced by Leydig cells in the fetal testicular interstitium. Leydig cells rarely proliferate and, hence, rely on constant differentiation of interstitial progenitors to increase their number during fetal development. The cellular origins of fetal Leydig progenitors and how they are maintained remain largely unknown. Here we show that Notch-active, Nestin-positive perivascular cells in the fetal testis are a multipotent progenitor population, giving rise to Leydig cells, pericytes, and smooth muscle cells. When vasculature is disrupted, perivascular progenitor cells fail to be maintained and excessive Leydig cell differentiation occurs, demonstrating that blood vessels are a critical component of the niche that maintains interstitial progenitor cells. Additionally, our data strongly supports a model in which fetal Leydig cell differentiation occurs by at least two different means, with each having unique progenitor origins and distinct requirements for Notch signaling to maintain the progenitor population. Leydig cells are steroidogenic cells in the testes and produce the androgens required for male development and spermatogenesis. Here the authors show that a multipotent progenitor population producing Leydig cells, pericytes and smooth muscle cells is maintained in a perivascular niche within the mouse fetal testis.
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40
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Rotgers E, Jørgensen A, Yao HHC. At the Crossroads of Fate-Somatic Cell Lineage Specification in the Fetal Gonad. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:739-759. [PMID: 29771299 PMCID: PMC6173476 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The reproductive endocrine systems are vastly different between males and females. This sexual dimorphism of the endocrine milieu originates from sex-specific differentiation of the somatic cells in the gonads during fetal life. Most gonadal somatic cells arise from the adrenogonadal primordium. After separation of the adrenal and gonadal primordia, the gonadal somatic cells initiate sex-specific differentiation during gonadal sex determination with the specification of the supporting cell lineages: Sertoli cells in the testis vs granulosa cells in the ovary. The supporting cell lineages then facilitate the differentiation of the steroidogenic cell lineages, Leydig cells in the testis and theca cells in the ovary. Proper differentiation of these cell types defines the somatic cell environment that is essential for germ cell development, hormone production, and establishment of the reproductive tracts. Impairment of lineage specification and function of gonadal somatic cells can lead to disorders of sexual development (DSDs) in humans. Human DSDs and processes for gonadal development have been successfully modeled using genetically modified mouse models. In this review, we focus on the fate decision processes from the initial stage of formation of the adrenogonadal primordium in the embryo to the maintenance of the somatic cell identities in the gonads when they become fully differentiated in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmi Rotgers
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Research and Research Training Center in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Humphrey Hung-Chang Yao
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
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41
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Hou YP, Zhang ZY, Xing XY, Zhou J, Sun J. Direct conversion of human fibroblasts into functional Leydig-like cells by SF-1, GATA4 and NGFI-B. Am J Transl Res 2018; 10:175-183. [PMID: 29423003 PMCID: PMC5801356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 12/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The reprogramming of fibroblasts to induced pluripotent stem cells raises the possibility that a somatic cell can be reprogrammed to an alternative, differentiated fate without first becoming a stem/progenitor cell. Recent work has shown that fibroblasts can be reprogrammed to other, terminally differentiated cells with a combination of several transcription factors. Here, we report that a combination of four developmental transcription factors; GATA4, SF-1, NGFI-B, and COUP TF2; efficiently reprogrammed human foreskin fibroblasts into functional induced Leydig-like cells (iLCs). The iLCs expressed Leydig-specific markers and secreted testosterone in vitro. We found that GATA4 and SF-1 were particularly critical for Leydig-specific markers expression and that GATA4, SF-1, and NGFI-B were necessary to generate functional iLCs that secreted testosterone. These findings demonstrate that fibroblasts can be directly converted into iLCs with a few, defined factors and may provide insight into potential therapies to treat testosterone deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ping Hou
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai, China
| | - Zhi-Yuan Zhang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Xing
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai, China
| | - Jin Zhou
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai, China
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42
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COUP-TFII is required for morphogenesis of the neural crest-derived tympanic ring. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12386. [PMID: 28959031 PMCID: PMC5620064 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-12665-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Chicken Ovalbumin Upstream Promoter-Transcription Factor II (COUP-TFII) plays pivotal roles in cell growth, cell differentiation, and cell fate determination. Although genome-wide studies have identified COUP-TFII binding on gene sets mainly involved in neural crest cell (NCC) development and craniofacial morphogenesis, the direct functional connection between COUP-TFII and NCCs in vivo has not been well characterized. In this study, we show that COUP-TFII is expressed in the subpopulation of NCCs and its derivatives, and targeted ablation of COUP-TFII in mouse NCCs results in markedly shortened and bifurcated tympanic rings, which in turn disturb the caudal direction of external acoustic meatus invagination. However, formation of the manubrium of the malleus (MM) in Wnt1-Cre/+;COUP-TFIIflox/flox mice is not perturbed, suggesting that the rostral half of the tympanic ring is sufficient to support proper MM development. Interestingly, we found that loss of COUP-TFII up-regulates Sox9 in the tympanic ring primordium and affects the distribution of preosteoblasts before mesenchymal condensation. Together, our results demonstrate that COUP-TFII plays an essential role in regulating the patterning of the NCC-derived tympanic ring.
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43
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Ye L, Li X, Li L, Chen H, Ge RS. Insights into the Development of the Adult Leydig Cell Lineage from Stem Leydig Cells. Front Physiol 2017; 8:430. [PMID: 28701961 PMCID: PMC5487449 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult Leydig cells (ALCs) are the steroidogenic cells in the testes that produce testosterone. ALCs develop postnatally from a pool of stem cells, referred to as stem Leydig cells (SLCs). SLCs are spindle-shaped cells that lack steroidogenic cell markers, including luteinizing hormone (LH) receptor and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. The commitment of SLCs into the progenitor Leydig cells (PLCs), the first stage in the lineage, requires growth factors, including Dessert Hedgehog (DHH) and platelet-derived growth factor-AA. PLCs are still spindle-shaped, but become steroidogenic and produce mainly androsterone. The next transition in the lineage is from PLC to the immature Leydig cell (ILC). This transition requires LH, DHH, and androgen. ILCs are ovoid cells that are competent for producing a different form of androgen, androstanediol. The final stage in the developmental lineage is ALC. The transition to ALC involves the reduced expression of 5α-reductase 1, a step that is necessary to make the cells to produce testosterone as the final product. The transitions along the Leydig cell lineage are associated with the progressive down-regulation of the proliferative activity, and the up-regulation of steroidogenic capacity, with each step requiring unique regulatory signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leping Ye
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoheng Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Haolin Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
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44
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Shima Y, Morohashi KI. Leydig progenitor cells in fetal testis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 445:55-64. [PMID: 27940302 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Revised: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Testicular Leydig cells play pivotal roles in masculinization of organisms by producing androgens. At least two distinct Leydig cell populations sequentially emerge in the mammalian testis. Leydig cells in the fetal testis (fetal Leydig cells) appear just after initial sex differentiation and induce masculinization of male fetuses. Although there has been a debate on the fate of fetal Leydig cells in the postnatal testis, it has been generally believed that fetal Leydig cells regress and are completely replaced by another Leydig cell population, adult Leydig cells. Recent studies revealed that gene expression patterns are different between fetal and adult Leydig cells and that the androgens produced in fetal Leydig cells are different from those in adult Leydig cells in mice. Although these results suggested that fetal and adult Leydig cells have distinct origins, several recent studies of mouse models support the hypothesis that fetal and adult Leydig cells arise from a common progenitor pool. In this review, we first provide an overview of previous knowledge, mainly from mouse studies, focusing on the cellular origins of fetal Leydig cells and the regulatory mechanisms underlying fetal Leydig cell differentiation. In addition, we will briefly discuss the functional differences of fetal Leydig cells between human and rodents. We will also discuss recent studies with mouse models that give clues for understanding how the progenitor cells in the fetal testis are subsequently destined to become fetal or adult Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuichi Shima
- Department of Anatomy, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama 701-0192, Japan.
| | - Ken-Ichirou Morohashi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
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45
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Chen H, Wang Y, Ge R, Zirkin BR. Leydig cell stem cells: Identification, proliferation and differentiation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 445:65-73. [PMID: 27743991 PMCID: PMC5346484 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2016] [Revised: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Adult Leydig cells develop from undifferentiated mesenchymal-like stem cells (stem Leydig cells, SLCs) present in the interstitial compartment of the early postnatal testis. Putative SLCs also have been identified in peritubular and perivascular locations of the adult testis. The latter cells, which normally are quiescent, are capable of regenerating new Leydig cells upon the loss of the adult cells. Recent studies have identified several protein markers to identify these cells, including nestin, PDGFRα, COUP-TFII, CD51 and CD90. We have shown that the proliferation of the SLCs is stimulated by DHH, FGF2, PDGFBB, activin and PDGFAA. Suppression of proliferation occurred with TGFβ, androgen and PKA signaling. The differentiation of the SLCs into testosterone-producing Leydig cells was found to be regulated positively by DHH (Desert hedgehog), lithium-induced signaling and activin; and negatively by TGFβ, PDGFBB, FGF2, Notch and Wnt signaling. DHH, by itself, was found to induce SLC differentiation into LH-responsive steroidogenic cells, suggesting that DHH plays a critical role in the commitment of SLC into the Leydig lineage. These studies, taken together, address the function and regulation of low turnover stem cells in a complex, adult organ, and also have potential application to the treatment of androgen deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolin Chen
- Center for Scientific Research, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Center for Scientific Research, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Renshan Ge
- Center for Scientific Research, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Barry R Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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46
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Chen H, Jin S, Huang S, Folmer J, Liu J, Ge R, Zirkin BR. Transplantation of alginate-encapsulated seminiferous tubules and interstitial tissue into adult rats: Leydig stem cell differentiation in vivo? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 436:250-8. [PMID: 27591121 PMCID: PMC5050555 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.08.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Revised: 08/09/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
In vivo and in vitro studies were conducted to determine whether testosterone-producing Leydig cells are able to develop from cells associated with rat seminiferous tubules, interstitium, or both. Adult rat seminiferous tubules and interstitium were isolated, encapsulated separately in alginate, and implanted subcutaneously into castrated rats. With implanted tubules, serum testosterone increased through two months. Tubules removed from the implanted rats and incubated with LH produced testosterone, and cells on the tubule surfaces expressed steroidogenic enzymes. With implanted interstitial tissue, serum levels of testosterone remained undetectable. However, co-culture of interstitium plus tubules in vitro resulted in the formation of Leydig cells by both compartments. These results indicate that seminiferous tubules contain both cellular and paracrine factors necessary for the differentiation of Leydig cells, and that the interstitial compartment contains precursor cells capable of forming testosterone-producing Leydig cells but requires stimulation by paracrine factors from the seminiferous tubules to do so.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolin Chen
- Center for Scientific Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shiying Jin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shengsong Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Putuo, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Janet Folmer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - June Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Renshan Ge
- Center for Scientific Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Barry R Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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47
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Wen Q, Cheng CY, Liu YX. Development, function and fate of fetal Leydig cells. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 59:89-98. [PMID: 26968934 PMCID: PMC5016207 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
During fetal testis development, fetal Leydig cells (FLCs) are found to be originated from multiple progenitor cells. FLC specification and function are under tight regulation of specific genes and signaling proteins. Furthermore, Sertoli cells play a crucial role to regulate FLC differentiation during fetal testis development. FLC progenitor- and FLC-produced biomolecules are also involved in the differentiation and activity of rodent FLCs. The main function of FLCs is to produce androgens to masculinize XY embryos. However, FLCs are capable of producing androstenedione but not testosterone due to the lack of 17β-HSD (17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase), but fetal Sertoli cells express 17β-HSD which thus transforms androstenedione to testosterone in the fetal testis. On the other hand, FLCs produce activin A to regulate Sertoli cell proliferation, and Sertoli cells in turn modulate testis cord expansion. It is now generally accepted that adult Leydig cells (ALCs) gradually replace FLCs during postnatal development to produce testosterone to support spermatogenesis as FLCs undergo degeneration in neonatal and pre-pubertal testes. However, based on studies using genetic tracing mouse models, FLCs are found to persist in adult testes, making up ∼20% of total Leydig cells. In this review, we evaluate the latest findings regarding the development, function and fate of FLCs during fetal and adult testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065, United States.
| | - Yi-Xun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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48
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Liu C, Rodriguez K, Yao HHC. Mapping lineage progression of somatic progenitor cells in the mouse fetal testis. Development 2016; 143:3700-3710. [PMID: 27621062 DOI: 10.1242/dev.135756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Testis morphogenesis is a highly orchestrated process involving lineage determination of male germ cells and somatic cell types. Although the origin and differentiation of germ cells are known, the developmental course specific for each somatic cell lineage has not been clearly defined. Here, we construct a comprehensive map of somatic cell lineage progression in the mouse testis. Both supporting and interstitial cell lineages arise from WT1+ somatic progenitor pools in the gonadal primordium. A subpopulation of WT1+ progenitor cells acquire SOX9 expression and become Sertoli cells that form testis cords, whereas the remaining WT1+ cells contribute to progenitor cells in the testis interstitium. Interstitial progenitor cells diversify through the acquisition of HES1, an indication of Notch activation, at the onset of sex determination. HES1+ interstitial progenitors, through the action of Sertoli cell-derived Hedgehog signals, become positive for GLI1. The GLI1+ interstitial cells eventually develop into two cell lineages: steroid-producing fetal Leydig cells and non-steroidogenic cells. The fetal Leydig cell population is restricted by Notch2 signaling from the neighboring somatic cells. The non-steroidogenic progenitor cells retain their undifferentiated state during fetal stage and become adult Leydig cells in post-pubertal testis. These results provide the first lineage progression map that illustrates the sequential establishment of somatic cell populations during testis morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Karina Rodriguez
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Humphrey H-C Yao
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC 27709, USA
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49
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Martin LJ. Cell interactions and genetic regulation that contribute to testicular Leydig cell development and differentiation. Mol Reprod Dev 2016; 83:470-87. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Luc J. Martin
- Department of Biology; Université de Moncton; Moncton New-Brunswick Canada
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50
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Inoue M, Shima Y, Miyabayashi K, Tokunaga K, Sato T, Baba T, Ohkawa Y, Akiyama H, Suyama M, Morohashi KI. Isolation and Characterization of Fetal Leydig Progenitor Cells of Male Mice. Endocrinology 2016; 157:1222-33. [PMID: 26697723 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Fetal and adult Leydig cells develop in mammalian prenatal and postnatal testes, respectively. In mice, fetal Leydig cells (FLCs) emerge in the interstitial space of the testis at embryonic day 12.5 and thereafter increase in number, possibly through differentiation from progenitor cells. However, the progenitor cells have not yet been identified. Previously, we established transgenic mice in which FLCs are labeled strongly with enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP). Interestingly, fluorescence-activated cell sorting provided us with weakly EGFP-labeled cells as well as strongly EGFP-labeled FLCs. In vitro reconstruction of fetal testes demonstrated that weakly EGFP-labeled cells contain FLC progenitors. Transcriptome from the 2 cell populations revealed, as expected, marked differences in the expression of genes required for growth factor/receptor signaling and steroidogenesis. In addition, genes for energy metabolisms such as glycolytic pathways and the citrate cycle were activated in strongly EGFP-labeled cells, suggesting that metabolism is activated during FLC differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miki Inoue
- Division of Molecular Life Science (M.I., Y.S., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Systems Life Science; Department of Molecular Biology (Y.S., K.M., K.T., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Medical Sciences; Division of Bioinformatics (T.S., M.S.), Medical Institute of Bioregulation; and Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives (Y.O.), Japan Science and Technology Agency-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; and Department of Orthopaedics (H.A.), Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Yuichi Shima
- Division of Molecular Life Science (M.I., Y.S., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Systems Life Science; Department of Molecular Biology (Y.S., K.M., K.T., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Medical Sciences; Division of Bioinformatics (T.S., M.S.), Medical Institute of Bioregulation; and Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives (Y.O.), Japan Science and Technology Agency-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; and Department of Orthopaedics (H.A.), Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Kanako Miyabayashi
- Division of Molecular Life Science (M.I., Y.S., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Systems Life Science; Department of Molecular Biology (Y.S., K.M., K.T., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Medical Sciences; Division of Bioinformatics (T.S., M.S.), Medical Institute of Bioregulation; and Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives (Y.O.), Japan Science and Technology Agency-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; and Department of Orthopaedics (H.A.), Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Kaori Tokunaga
- Division of Molecular Life Science (M.I., Y.S., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Systems Life Science; Department of Molecular Biology (Y.S., K.M., K.T., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Medical Sciences; Division of Bioinformatics (T.S., M.S.), Medical Institute of Bioregulation; and Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives (Y.O.), Japan Science and Technology Agency-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; and Department of Orthopaedics (H.A.), Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Sato
- Division of Molecular Life Science (M.I., Y.S., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Systems Life Science; Department of Molecular Biology (Y.S., K.M., K.T., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Medical Sciences; Division of Bioinformatics (T.S., M.S.), Medical Institute of Bioregulation; and Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives (Y.O.), Japan Science and Technology Agency-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; and Department of Orthopaedics (H.A.), Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Takashi Baba
- Division of Molecular Life Science (M.I., Y.S., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Systems Life Science; Department of Molecular Biology (Y.S., K.M., K.T., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Medical Sciences; Division of Bioinformatics (T.S., M.S.), Medical Institute of Bioregulation; and Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives (Y.O.), Japan Science and Technology Agency-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; and Department of Orthopaedics (H.A.), Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Ohkawa
- Division of Molecular Life Science (M.I., Y.S., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Systems Life Science; Department of Molecular Biology (Y.S., K.M., K.T., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Medical Sciences; Division of Bioinformatics (T.S., M.S.), Medical Institute of Bioregulation; and Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives (Y.O.), Japan Science and Technology Agency-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; and Department of Orthopaedics (H.A.), Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Akiyama
- Division of Molecular Life Science (M.I., Y.S., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Systems Life Science; Department of Molecular Biology (Y.S., K.M., K.T., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Medical Sciences; Division of Bioinformatics (T.S., M.S.), Medical Institute of Bioregulation; and Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives (Y.O.), Japan Science and Technology Agency-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; and Department of Orthopaedics (H.A.), Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Mikita Suyama
- Division of Molecular Life Science (M.I., Y.S., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Systems Life Science; Department of Molecular Biology (Y.S., K.M., K.T., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Medical Sciences; Division of Bioinformatics (T.S., M.S.), Medical Institute of Bioregulation; and Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives (Y.O.), Japan Science and Technology Agency-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; and Department of Orthopaedics (H.A.), Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Ken-ichirou Morohashi
- Division of Molecular Life Science (M.I., Y.S., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Systems Life Science; Department of Molecular Biology (Y.S., K.M., K.T., T.B., K.-i.M.), Graduate School of Medical Sciences; Division of Bioinformatics (T.S., M.S.), Medical Institute of Bioregulation; and Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives (Y.O.), Japan Science and Technology Agency-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; and Department of Orthopaedics (H.A.), Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
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