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Cao M, Xiong L, Wang X, Guo S, Hu L, Kang Y, Wu X, Bao P, Chu M, Liang C, Pei J, Guo X. Comprehensive analysis of differentially expressed mRNAs, circRNAs, and miRNAs and their ceRNA network in the testis of cattle-yak, yak, and cattle. Genomics 2024; 116:110872. [PMID: 38849017 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2024.110872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Cattle-yak is a hybrid offspring resulting from the crossbreeding of yak and cattle, and it exhibits substantial heterosis in production performance. However, male sterility in cattle-yak remains a concern. Reports suggest that noncoding RNAs are involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis. Therefore, in this study, we comprehensively compared testicular transcription profiles among cattle, yak, and cattle-yak. Numerous differentially expressed genes (DEGs), differentially expressed circRNAs (DECs), and differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) were identified in the intersection of two comparison groups, namely cattle versus cattle-yak and yak versus cattle-yak, with the number of DEGs, DECs, and DEMs being 4968, 360, and 59, respectively. The DEGs in cattle-yaks, cattle, and yaks were mainly associated with spermatogenesis, male gamete generation, and sexual reproduction. Concurrently, GO and KEGG analyses indicated that DEC host genes and DEM source genes were involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis. The construction of a potential competing endogenous RNA network revealed that some differentially expressed noncoding RNAs may be involved in regulating the expression of genes related to testicular spermatogenesis, including miR-423-5p, miR-449b, miR-34b/c, and miR-15b, as well as previously unreported miR-6123 and miR-1306, along with various miRNA-circRNA interaction pairs. This study serves as a valuable reference for further investigations into the mechanisms underlying male sterility in cattle-yaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengli Cao
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding in Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Lin Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding in Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Xingdong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding in Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Shaoke Guo
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding in Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Liyan Hu
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding in Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Yandong Kang
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding in Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wu
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding in Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Pengjia Bao
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding in Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Min Chu
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding in Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Chunnian Liang
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding in Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Jie Pei
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding in Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China.
| | - Xian Guo
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding in Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China.
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2
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Nadri P, Nadri T, Gholami D, Zahmatkesh A, Hosseini Ghaffari M, Savvulidi Vargova K, Georgijevic Savvulidi F, LaMarre J. Role of miRNAs in assisted reproductive technology. Gene 2024; 927:148703. [PMID: 38885817 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148703] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Cellular proteins and the mRNAs that encode them are key factors in oocyte and sperm development, and the mechanisms that regulate their translation and degradation play an important role during early embryogenesis. There is abundant evidence that expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) is crucial for embryo development and are highly involved in regulating translation during oocyte and early embryo development. MiRNAs are a group of short (18-24 nucleotides) non-coding RNA molecules that regulate post-transcriptional gene silencing. The miRNAs are secreted outside the cell by embryos during preimplantation embryo development. Understanding regulatory mechanisms involving miRNAs during gametogenesis and embryogenesis will provide insights into molecular pathways active during gamete formation and early embryo development. This review summarizes recent findings regarding multiple roles of miRNAs in molecular signaling, plus their transport during gametogenesis and embryo preimplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Nadri
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Touba Nadri
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran; Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Tehran University, Karaj, Iran.
| | - Dariush Gholami
- Department of Microbial Biotechniligy, Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
| | - Azadeh Zahmatkesh
- Department of Anaerobic Vaccine Research and Production, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute (RVSRI), Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | | | - Karin Savvulidi Vargova
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Filipp Georgijevic Savvulidi
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University, Prague, Kamýcká, Czech Republic
| | - Jonathan LaMarre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Canada
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3
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Tiwari P, Yadav A, Kaushik M, Dada R. Cancer risk and male Infertility: Unravelling predictive biomarkers and prognostic indicators. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 558:119670. [PMID: 38614420 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2024.119670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a global increase in cases of male infertility. There are about 30 million cases of male infertility worldwide and male reproductive health is showing rapid decline in last few decades. It is now recognized as a potential risk factor for developing certain types of cancer, particularly genitourinary malignancies like testicular and prostate cancer. Male infertility is considered a potential indicator of overall health and an early biomarker for cancer. Cases of unexplained male factor infertility have high levels of oxidative stress and oxidative DNA damage and this induces both denovo germ line mutations and epimutations due to build up of 8-hydroxy 2 deoxygunaosine abase which is highly mutagenic and also induces hypomethylation and genomic instability. Consequently, there is growing evidence to explore the various factors contributing to an increased cancer risk. Currently, the available prognostic and predictive biomarkers associated with semen characteristics and cancer risk are limited but gaining significant attention in clinical research for the diagnosis and treatment of elevated cancer risk in the individual and in offspring. The male germ cell being transcriptionally and translationally inert has a highly truncated repair mechanism and has minimal antioxidants and thus most vulnerable to oxidative injury due to environmental factors and unhealthy lifestyle and social habits. Therefore, advancing our understanding requires a thorough evaluation of the pathophysiologic mechanisms at the DNA, RNA, protein, and metabolite levels to identify key biomarkers that may underlie the pathogenesis of male infertility and associated cancer. Advanced methodologies such as genomics, epigenetics, proteomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics stand at the forefront of cutting-edge approaches for discovering novel biomarkers, spanning from infertility to associated cancer types. Henceforth, in this review, we aim to assess the role and potential of recently identified predictive and prognostic biomarkers, offering insights into the success of assisted reproductive technologies, causes of azoospermia and idiopathic infertility, the impact of integrated holistic approach and lifestyle modifications, and the monitoring of cancer susceptibility, initiation and progression. Comprehending these biomarkers is crucial for providing comprehensive counselling to infertile men and cancer patients, along with their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prabhakar Tiwari
- Lab for Molecular Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 110029, India.
| | - Anjali Yadav
- Lab for Molecular Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Meenakshi Kaushik
- Lab for Molecular Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Rima Dada
- Lab for Molecular Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 110029, India.
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Wang P, Liu Z, Zhang X, Huo H, Wang L, Dai H, Yang F, Zhao G, Huo J. Integrated analysis of lncRNA, miRNA and mRNA expression profiles reveals regulatory pathways associated with pig testis function. Genomics 2024; 116:110819. [PMID: 38432498 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2024.110819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and microRNA (miRNA) are known to play pivotal roles in mammalian testicular function and spermatogenesis. However, their impact on porcine male reproduction has yet to be well unraveled. Here, we sequenced and identified lncRNA and miRNA expressed in the testes of Chinese indigenous Banna mini-pig inbred line (BMI) and introduced Western Duroc (DU) and Large White (LW) pigs. By pairwise comparison (BMI vs DU, BMI vs LW, and DU vs LW), we found the gene expression differences in the testes between Chinese local pigs and introduced Western commercial breeds were more striking than those between introduced commercial breeds. Furthermore, we found 1622 co-differentially expressed genes (co-DEGs), 122 co-differentially expressed lncRNAs (co-DELs), 39 co-differentially expressed miRNAs (co-DEMs) in BMI vs introduced commercial breeds (DU and LW). Functional analysis revealed that these co-DEGs and co-DELs/co-DEMs target genes were enriched in male sexual function pathways, including MAPK, AMPK, TGF-β/Smad, Hippo, NF-kappa B, and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. Additionally, we established 10,536 lncRNA-mRNA, 11,248 miRNA-mRNA pairs, and 62 ceRNA (lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA) networks. The ssc-miR-1343 had the most interactive factors in the ceRNA network, including 20 mRNAs and 3 lncRNAs, consisting of 56 ceRNA pairs. These factors played extremely important roles in the regulation of testis function as key nodes in the interactive regulatory network. Our results provide insight into the functional roles of lncRNAs and miRNAs in porcine testis and offer a valuable resource for understanding the differences between Chinese indigenous and introduced Western pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Zhipeng Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- College of Life Science, Lyuliang University, Lvliang 033001, China
| | - Hailong Huo
- Yunnan Open University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Lina Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Hongmei Dai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Fuhua Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Guiying Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China.
| | - Jinlong Huo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China.
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5
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Sudhakaran G, Kesavan D, Kandaswamy K, Guru A, Arockiaraj J. Unravelling the epigenetic impact: Oxidative stress and its role in male infertility-associated sperm dysfunction. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 124:108531. [PMID: 38176575 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Male infertility is a multifactorial condition influenced by epigenetic regulation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Oxidative stress-induced damage leads to epigenetic modifications, disrupting gene expression crucial for spermatogenesis and fertilization. Paternal exposure to oxidative stress induces transgenerational epigenetic alterations, potentially impacting male fertility in offspring. Mitochondrial dysfunction impairs sperm function, while leukocytospermia exacerbates oxidative stress-related sperm dysfunction. Therefore, this review focuses on understanding these mechanisms as vital for developing preventive strategies, including targeting oxidative stress-induced epigenetic changes and implementing lifestyle modifications to prevent male infertility. This study investigates how oxidative stress affects the epigenome and sperm production, function, and fertilization. Unravelling the molecular pathways provides valuable insights that can advance our scientific understanding. Additionally, these findings have clinical implications and can help to address the significant global health issue of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gokul Sudhakaran
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu District, Kattankulathur 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - D Kesavan
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu District, Kattankulathur 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Karthikeyan Kandaswamy
- Department of Cariology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, SIMATS, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ajay Guru
- Department of Cariology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, SIMATS, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Jesu Arockiaraj
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu District, Kattankulathur 603203, Tamil Nadu, India.
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6
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Olotu O, Ahmedani A, Kotaja N. Small Non-Coding RNAs in Male Reproduction. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:213-225. [PMID: 38346711 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1779726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Male reproductive functions are strictly regulated in order to maintain sperm production and fertility. All processes are controlled by precise regulation of gene expression, which creates specific gene expression programs for different developmental stages and cell types, and forms the functional basis for the reproductive system. Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) are involved in gene regulation by targeting mRNAs for translational repression and degradation through complementary base pairing to recognize their targets. This review article summarizes the current knowledge on the function of different classes of sncRNAs, in particular microRNAs (miRNAs) and PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), during male germ cell differentiation, with the focus on sncRNAs expressed in the germline. Although transcriptionally inactive, mature spermatozoa contain a complex population of sncRNAs, and we also discuss the recently identified role of sperm sncRNAs in the intergenerational transmission of epigenetic information on father's environmental and lifestyle exposures to offspring. Finally, we summarize the current information on the utility of sncRNAs as potential biomarkers of infertility that may aid in the diagnosis and prediction of outcomes of medically assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Opeyemi Olotu
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Ammar Ahmedani
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Noora Kotaja
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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Lu L, Abbott AL. Male gonad-enriched microRNAs function to control sperm production in C. elegans. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.10.561762. [PMID: 37873419 PMCID: PMC10592766 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.10.561762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Germ cell development and gamete production in animals require small RNA pathways. While studies indicate that microRNAs (miRNAs) are necessary for normal sperm production and function, the specific roles for individual miRNAs are largely unknown. Here, we use small RNA sequencing of dissected gonads and functional analysis of new loss of function alleles to identify functions for miRNAs in the control of fecundity and sperm production in Caenorhabditis elegans males and hermaphrodites. We describe a set of 29 male gonad-enriched miRNAs and identify a set of 3 individual miRNAs (mir-58.1, mir-83, and mir-235) and a miRNA cluster (mir-4807-4810.1) that are required for optimal sperm production at 20°C and 5 additional miRNAs (mir-49, mir-57, mir-261, and mir-357/358) that are required for sperm production at 25°C. We observed defects in meiotic progression in mir-58.1, mir-83, mir-235, and mir-4807-4810.1 mutants that may contribute to the reduced number of sperm. Further, analysis of multiple mutants of these miRNAs suggested complex genetic interactions between these miRNAs for sperm production. This study provides insights on the regulatory roles of miRNAs that promote optimal sperm production and fecundity in males and hermaphrodites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Lu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, 53201 USA
| | - Allison L. Abbott
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, 53201 USA
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Chen J, Han C. In vivo functions of miRNAs in mammalian spermatogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1154938. [PMID: 37215089 PMCID: PMC10196063 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1154938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are believed to play important roles in mammalian spermatogenesis mainly because spermatogenesis is more or less disrupted when genes encoding key enzymes for miRNA biogenesis are mutated. However, it is challenging to study the functions of individual miRNAs due to their family-wise high sequence similarities and the clustered genomic distributions of their genes, both of which expose difficulties in using genetic methods. Accumulating evidence shows that a number of miRNAs indeed play important roles in mammalian spermatogenesis and the underlying mechanisms start to be understood. In this mini review, we focus on highlighting the roles of miRNAs in mammalian spermatogenesis elucidated mainly by using in vivo genetic methods and on discussing the underlying mechanisms. We propose that studies on the roles of miRNAs in spermatogenesis should and can be conducted in a more fruitful way given the progress in traditional methods and the birth of new technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chunsheng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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9
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Kasimanickam VR, Kasimanickam RK. In Silico Analysis of miRNA-Mediated Genes in the Regulation of Dog Testes Development from Immature to Adult Form. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13091520. [PMID: 37174557 PMCID: PMC10177090 DOI: 10.3390/ani13091520] [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: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
High-throughput in-silico techniques help us understand the role of individual proteins, protein-protein interaction, and their biological functions by corroborating experimental data as epitomized biological networks. The objective of this investigation was to elucidate the association of miRNA-mediated genes in the regulation of dog testes development from immature to adult form by in-silico analysis. Differentially expressed (DE) canine testis miRNAs between healthy immature (2.2 ± 0.13 months; n = 4) and mature (11 ± 1.0 months; n = 4) dogs were utilized in this investigation. In silico analysis was performed using miRNet, STRING, and ClueGo programs. The determination of mRNA and protein expressions of predicted pivotal genes and their association with miRNA were studied. The results showed protein-protein interaction for the upregulated miRNAs, which revealed 978 enriched biological processes GO terms and 127 KEGG enrichment pathways, and for the down-regulated miRNAs revealed 405 significantly enriched biological processes GO terms and 72 significant KEGG enrichment pathways (False Recovery Rate, p < 0.05). The in-silico analysis of DE-miRNA's associated genes revealed their involvement in the governing of several key biological functions (cell cycle, cell proliferation, growth, maturation, survival, and apoptosis) in the testis as they evolve from immature to adult forms, mediated by several key signaling pathways (ErbB, p53, PI3K-Akt, VEGF and JAK-STAT), cytokines and hormones (estrogen, GnRH, relaxin, thyroid hormone, and prolactin). Elucidation of DE-miRNA predicted genes' specific roles, signal transduction pathways, and mechanisms, by mimics and inhibitors, which could perhaps offer diagnostic and therapeutic targets for infertility, cancer, and birth control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanmathy R Kasimanickam
- Center for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Ramanathan K Kasimanickam
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
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10
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Zhong D, Zhang L, Huang K, Chen M, Chen Y, Liu Q, Shi D, Li H. circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network analysis to explore the pathogenesis of abnormal spermatogenesis due to aberrant m6A methylation. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 392:605-620. [PMID: 36656346 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03725-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Many studies have shown that circRNAs and miRNAs play important roles in many different life processes. However, the function of circRNAs in spermatogenesis remains unknown. Here, we aimed to explore the mechanisms whereby circRNA-miRNAs-mRNAs regulate abnormal m6A methylation in GC-1spg spermatogonia. We first reduced m6A methylation in GC-1spg whole cells after knocking down the m6A methyltransferase enzyme, METTL3. Then, we performed circRNA- and miRNA-seq on GC-1spg cells with low m6A methylation and identified 48 and 50 differentially expressed circRNAs and miRNAs, respectively. We also predicted the targets of the differentially expressed miRNAs by using Miranda software and further constructed the differentially expressed circRNA-differentially expressed miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network. GO analysis was performed on the differentially expressed circRNAs and miRNA-targeted mRNAs, and an interaction network between the proteins of interest was constructed using Cytoscape. The final GO analysis showed that the target mRNAs were involved in sperm formation. Therefore, a PPI network was subsequently constructed and 2 hub genes (H2afx and Dnmt3a) were identified. In this study, we constructed a ceRNA network and explored the regulatory roles of circRNAs and miRNAs in the pathogenesis of abnormal spermatogenesis caused by low levels of methylated m6A. Also, we identified two pivotal genes that may be key factors in infertility caused by abnormal m6A methylation. This may provide some ideas for the treatment of infertility resulting from abnormal spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Zhong
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Liyin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Kongwei Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Mengjie Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Yaling Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Qingyou Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, 528225, China
| | - Deshun Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Hui Li
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China. .,Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China.
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11
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Cason C, Lord T. RNA Interference as a Method of Gene Knockdown in Cultured Spermatogonia. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2656:161-177. [PMID: 37249871 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3139-3_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Maintenance and self-renewal of the spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) population in the testis are dictated by the expression of a unique suite of genes. In manipulating gene expression through loss-of-function approaches, we can identify important regulatory mechanisms that dictate spermatogonial fate decisions. One such approach is RNA interference (RNAi), which uses natural cellular responses to small interfering RNAs to decrease levels of a targeted transcript. RNAi is performed in primary cultures of undifferentiated spermatogonia, and can be paired with techniques such as spermatogonial transplantation to assess the functional consequences of downregulated expression of the target gene on stem cell maintenance. This approach provides an alternative or complementary strategy to the generation of knockout mouse lines / cell lines. Here, we describe the methodology of RNAi in undifferentiated spermatogonia, and outline its inherent advantages and disadvantages over other technologies in the study of gene regulation in these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor Cason
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Tessa Lord
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.
- Infertility and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.
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12
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Yahaya TO, Bashar DM, Oladele EO, Umar J, Anyebe D, Izuafa A. Epigenetics in the etiology and management of infertility. World J Med Genet 2022; 10:7-21. [DOI: 10.5496/wjmg.v10.i2.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic disruptions have been implicated in some cases of infertility and can serve as therapeutic targets. However, the involvement of epigenetics in infertility has not received adequate attention.
AIM This study aimed to determine the epigenetic basis of infertility in order to enhance public knowledge.
METHODS Relevant articles on the subject were collected from PubMed, RCA, Google Scholar, SpringerLink, and Scopus. The articles were pooled together and duplicates were removed using Endnote software.
RESULTS Available information shows that epigenetic mechanisms, mainly DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA interference are necessary for normal gametogenesis and embryogenesis. As a result, epigenetic disruptions in genes that control gametogenesis and embryogenesis, such as DDX3X, ADH4, AZF, PLAG1, D1RAS3, CYGB, MEST, JMJD1A, KCNQ1, IGF2, H19, and MTHFR may result in infertility. Aberrant DNA methylation during genomic imprinting and parental epigenetic mark erasures, in particular, may affect the DNA epigenomes of sperm and oocytes, resulting in reproductive abnormalities. Histone epigenetic dysregulation during oocyte development and histone-protamine replacement in the sperm may also cause reproductive abnormalities. Furthermore, overexpression or repression of certain microRNAs embedded in the ovary, testis, embryo, as well as granulosa cells and oocytes may impair reproduction. Male infertility is characterized by spermatogenesis failure, which includes oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, and teratozoospermia, while female infertility is characterized by polycystic ovary syndrome. Some epigenetic modifications can be reversed by deactivating the regulatory enzymes, implying that epigenetic reprogramming could help treat infertility in some cases. For some disorders, epigenetic drugs are available, but none have been formulated for infertility.
CONCLUSION Some cases of infertility have an epigenetic etiology and can be treated by reversing the same epigenetic mechanism that caused it. As a result, medical practitioners are urged to come up with epigenetic treatments for infertility that have an epigenetic cause.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Danlami M Bashar
- Department of Microbiology, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Esther O Oladele
- Biology Unit, Distance Learning Institute, University of Lagos, Lagos State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Ja'afar Umar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Daniel Anyebe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Abdulrazaq Izuafa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
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13
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Kyrgiafini MA, Sarafidou T, Mamuris Z. The Role of Long Noncoding RNAs on Male Infertility: A Systematic Review and In Silico Analysis. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11101510. [PMID: 36290414 PMCID: PMC9598197 DOI: 10.3390/biology11101510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility is a complex disorder affecting many couples worldwide. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate important cellular processes; however, a comprehensive understanding of their role in male infertility is limited. This systematic review investigates the differential expressions of lncRNAs in male infertility or variations in lncRNA regions associated with it. The PRISMA guidelines were used to search Pubmed and Web of Science (1 June 2022). Inclusion criteria were human participants, patients diagnosed with male infertility, and English language speakers. We also performed an in silico analysis investigating lncRNAs that are reported in many subtypes of male infertility. A total of 625 articles were found, and after the screening and eligibility stages, 20 studies were included in the final sample. Many lncRNAs are deregulated in male infertility, and interactions between lncRNAs and miRNAs play an important role. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding the impact of variants found in lncRNA regions. Furthermore, eight lncRNAs were identified as differentially expressed in many subtypes of male infertility. After in silico analysis, gene ontology (GO) and KEGG enrichment analysis of the genes targeted by them revealed their association with bladder and prostate cancer. However, pathways involved in general in tumorigenesis and cancer development of all types, such as p53 pathways, apoptosis, and cell death, were also enriched, indicating a link between cancer and male infertility. This evidence, however, is preliminary. Future research is needed to explore the exact mechanism of action of the identified lncRNAs and investigate the association between male infertility and cancer.
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14
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Griffin KN, Walters BW, Li H, Wang H, Biancon G, Tebaldi T, Kaya CB, Kanyo J, Lam TT, Cox AL, Halene S, Chung JJ, Lesch BJ. Widespread association of the Argonaute protein AGO2 with meiotic chromatin suggests a distinct nuclear function in mammalian male reproduction. Genome Res 2022; 32:gr.276578.122. [PMID: 36109149 PMCID: PMC9528986 DOI: 10.1101/gr.276578.122] [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: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Argonaute 2 (AGO2) is a ubiquitously expressed protein critical for regulation of mRNA translation and vital to animal development. AGO2 protein is found in both cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments, and although its cytoplasmic role is well studied, the biological relevance of nuclear AGO2 is unclear. Here, we address this problem in vivo using spermatogenic cells as a model. We find that AGO2 transiently binds both chromatin and nucleus-specific mRNA transcripts of hundreds of genes required for sperm production during male meiosis in mice, and that germline conditional knockout (cKO) of Ago2 causes depletion of the encoded proteins. Correspondingly, Ago2 cKO males show abnormal sperm head morphology and reduced sperm count, along with reduced postnatal viability of offspring. Together, our data reveal an unexpected nuclear role for AGO2 in enhancing expression of developmentally important genes during mammalian male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly N Griffin
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
| | | | - Haixin Li
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
| | - Huafeng Wang
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
| | - Giulia Biancon
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
- Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
| | - Toma Tebaldi
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
- Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Carolyn B Kaya
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
| | - Jean Kanyo
- Keck MS & Proteomics Resource, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
| | - TuKiet T Lam
- Keck MS & Proteomics Resource, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA
| | - Andy L Cox
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
| | - Stephanie Halene
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
- Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
- Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
- Yale Center for RNA Science and Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
- Department of Pathology, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
| | - Jean-Ju Chung
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
| | - Bluma J Lesch
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
- Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
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15
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Arya D, Balasinor N, Singh D. Varicocele associated male infertility: cellular and molecular perspectives of pathophysiology. Andrology 2022; 10:1463-1483. [PMID: 36040837 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13278] [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: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varicocele is a common risk factor associated with reduced male fertility potential. The current understanding of varicocele pathophysiology does not completely explain the clinical manifestation of infertility. The present treatment options such as antioxidant supplementation and varicocelectomy only helps ∼35% of men to achieve spontaneous pregnancy. OBJECTIVE This review aims to summarize the available knowledge on cellular and molecular alterations implicated to varicocele associated male infertility and also highlights the new knowledge generated by 'Omics' technologies. MATERIALS AND METHODS PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane and Google Scholar databases are searched using different combinations of keywords (varicocele, infertile/fertile men with varicocele, cellular changes, molecular mechanisms, proteome, epigenome, transcriptome and metabolome). A total of 229 relevant human and animal studies published till 2021 were included in this review. RESULTS Current understanding advocates oxidative stress (OS) as a major contributory factor to the varicocele associated male infertility. Excessive OS causes alteration in testicular microenvironment and sperm DNA fragmentation which further contributes to infertility. Molecular and omics studies have identified several promising biomarkers such as AAMP, SPINT1, MKI67 (genetic markers), sperm quality and function related protein markers, global sperm DNA methylation level (epigenetic marker), Hspa2, Protamine, Gadd7, Dynlt1 and Beclin1 (mRNA markers), PRDX2, HSPA, APOA2, YKL40 (seminal protein markers), total choline and PHGDH (metabolic markers). DISCUSSION Mature spermatozoa harbours a plethora of molecular information in form of proteome, epigenome and transcriptome; which could provide very important clues regarding pathophysiology of varicocele associated infertility. Recent molecular and omics studies in infertile men with varicocele have identified several promising biomarkers. Upon further validation with larger and well-defined studies, some of these biomarkers could aid in varicocele management. CONCLUSION The present evidences suggest inclusion of OS and sperm DNA fragmentation tests could be useful to the diagnostic workup for men with varicocele. Furthermore, including precise molecular markers may assist in diagnostics and prognostics of varicocele associated male infertility. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepshikha Arya
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Nafisa Balasinor
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Dipty Singh
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
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16
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Chen J, Gao C, Luo M, Zheng C, Lin X, Ning Y, Ma L, He W, Xie D, Liu K, Hong K, Han C. MicroRNA-202 safeguards meiotic progression by preventing premature SEPARASE-mediated REC8 cleavage. EMBO Rep 2022; 23:e54298. [PMID: 35712867 PMCID: PMC9346496 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202154298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are believed to play important roles in mammalian spermatogenesis but the in vivo functions of single miRNAs in this highly complex developmental process remain unclear. Here, we report that miR-202, a member of the let-7 family, plays an important role in spermatogenesis by phenotypic evaluation of miR-202 knockout (KO) mice. Loss of miR-202 results in spermatocyte apoptosis and perturbation of the zygonema-to-pachynema transition. Multiple processes during meiosis prophase I including synapsis and crossover formation are disrupted, and inter-sister chromatid synapses are detected. Moreover, we demonstrate that Separase mRNA is a miR-202 direct target and provides evidence that miR-202 upregulates REC8 by repressing Separase expression. Therefore, we have identified miR-202 as a new regulating noncoding gene that acts on the established SEPARASE-REC8 axis in meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Chenxu Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Mengcheng Luo
- Department of Tissue and EmbryologyHubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated DiseaseSchool of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Chunwei Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Xiwen Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Yan Ning
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Longfei Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Wei He
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Dan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Kui Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility RegulationCenter of Assisted Reproduction and EmbryologyThe University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Kai Hong
- Department of UrologyPeking University Third HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Chunsheng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
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17
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Carro MDLM, Grimson A, Cohen PE. Small RNAs and their protein partners in animal meiosis. Curr Top Dev Biol 2022; 151:245-279. [PMID: 36681472 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2022.06.001] [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] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Meiosis is characterized by highly regulated transitions in gene expression that require diverse mechanisms of gene regulation. For example, in male mammals, transcription undergoes a global shut-down in early prophase I of meiosis, followed by increasing transcriptional activity into pachynema. Later, as spermiogenesis proceeds, the histones bound to DNA are replaced with transition proteins, which are themselves replaced with protamines, resulting in a highly condensed nucleus with repressed transcriptional activity. In addition, two specialized gene silencing events take place during prophase I: meiotic silencing of unsynapsed chromatin (MSUC), and the sex chromatin specific mechanism, meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI). Notably, conserved roles for the RNA binding protein (RBP) machinery that functions with small non-coding RNAs have been described as participating in these meiosis-specific mechanisms, suggesting that RNA-mediated gene regulation is critical for fertility in many species. Here, we review roles of small RNAs and their associated RBPs in meiosis-related processes such as centromere function, silencing of unpaired chromatin and meiotic recombination. We will discuss the emerging evidence of non-canonical functions of these components in meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- María de Las Mercedes Carro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States; Cornell Reproductive Sciences Center (CoRe), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Andrew Grimson
- Cornell Reproductive Sciences Center (CoRe), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States; Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States.
| | - Paula E Cohen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States; Cornell Reproductive Sciences Center (CoRe), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States.
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18
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Chen H, Zhang M, Zhang J, Chen Y, Zuo Y, Xie Z, Zhou G, Chen S, Chen Y. Application of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Models for Investigating microRNA Regulation in Developmental Processes. Front Genet 2022; 13:899831. [PMID: 35719367 PMCID: PMC9204592 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.899831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) techniques have opened up new perspectives in research on developmental biology. Compared with other sources of human cellular models, iPSCs present a great advantage in hosting the unique genotype background of donors without ethical concerns. A wide spectrum of cellular and organoid models can be generated from iPSCs under appropriate in vitro conditions. The pluripotency of iPSCs is orchestrated by external signalling and regulated at the epigenetic, transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. Recent decades have witnessed the progress of studying tissue-specific expressions and functions of microRNAs (miRNAs) using iPSC-derived models. MiRNAs are a class of short non-coding RNAs with regulatory functions in various biological processes during development, including cell migration, proliferation and apoptosis. MiRNAs are key modulators of gene expression and promising candidates for biomarker in development; hence, research on the regulation of human development by miRNAs is expanding. In this review, we summarize the current progress in the application of iPSC-derived models to studies of the regulatory roles of miRNAs in developmental processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mimi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingzhi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yapei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yabo Zuo
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Clinical Rapid Diagnosis and Early Warning of Infectious Diseases, KingMed School of Laboratory Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhishen Xie
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Clinical Rapid Diagnosis and Early Warning of Infectious Diseases, KingMed School of Laboratory Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guanqing Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shehong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaoyong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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19
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Yokota S, Takeda K, Oshio S. Spatiotemporal Small Non-coding RNAs Expressed in the Germline as an Early Biomarker of Testicular Toxicity and Transgenerational Effects Caused by Prenatal Exposure to Nanosized Particles. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2022; 3:691070. [PMID: 35295114 PMCID: PMC8915876 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2021.691070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, an apparent decline in human sperm quality has been observed worldwide. One in every 5.5 couples suffers from infertility, with male reproductive problems contributing to nearly 40% of all infertility cases. Although the reasons for the increasing number of infertility cases are largely unknown, both genetic and environmental factors can be contributing factors. In particular, exposure to chemical substances during mammalian male germ cell development has been linked to an increased risk of infertility in later life owing to defective sperm production, reproductive tract obstruction, inflammation, and sexual disorders. Prenatal exposure to nanomaterials (NMs) is no exception. In animal experiments, maternal exposure to NMs has been reported to affect the reproductive health of male offspring. Male germ cells require multiple epigenetic reprogramming events during their lifespan to acquire reproductive capacity. Given that spermatozoa deliver the paternal genome to oocytes upon fertilization, we hypothesized that maternal exposure to NMs negatively affects male germ cells by altering epigenetic regulation, which may in turn affect embryo development. Small non-coding RNAs (including microRNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs, tRNA-derived small RNAs, and rRNA-derived small RNAs), which are differentially expressed in mammalian male germ cells in a spatiotemporal manner, could play important regulatory roles in spermatogenesis and embryogenesis. Thus, the evaluation of RNAs responsible for sperm fertility is of great interest in reproductive toxicology and medicine. However, whether the effect of maternal exposure to NMs on spermatogenesis in the offspring (intergenerational effects) really triggers multigenerational effects remains unclear, and infertility biomarkers for evaluating paternal inheritance have not been identified to date. In this review, existing lines of evidence on the effects of prenatal exposure to NMs on male reproduction are summarized. A working hypothesis of the transgenerational effects of sperm-derived epigenomic changes in the F1 generation is presented, in that such maternal exposure could affect early embryonic development followed by deficits in neurodevelopment and male reproduction in the F2 generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Yokota
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Toxicology, Center for Biological Safety and Research, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Ken Takeda
- Division of Toxicology and Health Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sanyo-Onoda City University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Shigeru Oshio
- Department of Hygiene Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ohu University, Koriyama, Japan
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20
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Diverse Roles and Targets of miRNA in the Pathogenesis of Testicular Germ Cell Tumour. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051190. [PMID: 35267498 PMCID: PMC8909779 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumour (TGCT) is the most common cancer type among young adults in many parts of the world. Although the pathogenesis of TGCT is not well understood, the involvement of heritable components is evident, and the risk is polygenic. Genome-wide association studies have so far found 78 susceptibility loci for TGCT, and many of the loci are in non-coding regions indicating the involvement of non-coding RNAs in TGCT pathogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of non-coding RNAs, have emerged as important gene regulators at the post-transcriptional level. They are crucial in controlling many cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, and an aberrant miRNA expression may contribute to the pathogenesis of several cancers, including TGCT. In support of this notion, several studies reported differential expression of miRNAs in TGCTs. We previously demonstrated that miRNAs were the most common group of small non-coding RNAs in TGCTs, and several functional studies of miRNAs in TGCTs suggest that they may act as either oncogene or tumour suppressors. Moreover, individual miRNA targets and downstream pathways in the context of TGCT development have been explored. In this review, we will focus on the diverse roles and targets of miRNAs in TGCT pathogenesis.
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21
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Walker WH. Regulation of mammalian spermatogenesis by miRNAs. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 121:24-31. [PMID: 34006455 PMCID: PMC8591147 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Male fertility requires the continual production of sperm by the process of spermatogenesis. This process requires the correct timing of regulatory signals to germ cells during each phase of their development. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) in germ cells and supporting Sertoli cells respond to regulatory signals and cause down- or upregulation of mRNAs and proteins required to produce proteins that act in various pathways to support spermatogenesis. The targets and functional consequences of altered miRNA expression in undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids and Sertoli cells are discussed. Mechanisms are reviewed by which miRNAs contribute to decisions that promote spermatogonia stem cell self-renewal versus differentiation, entry into and progression through meiosis, differentiation of spermatids, as well as the regulation of Sertoli cell proliferation and differentiation. Also discussed are miRNA actions providing the very first signals for the differentiation of spermatogonia stem cells in a non-human primate model of puberty initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H. Walker
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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22
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Chen J, Gao C, Lin X, Ning Y, He W, Zheng C, Zhang D, Yan L, Jiang B, Zhao Y, Hossen MA, Han C. The microRNA miR-202 prevents precocious spermatogonial differentiation and meiotic initiation during mouse spermatogenesis. Development 2021; 148:273742. [PMID: 34913465 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial differentiation and meiotic initiation during spermatogenesis are tightly regulated by a number of genes, including those encoding enzymes for miRNA biogenesis. However, whether and how single miRNAs regulate these processes remain unclear. Here, we report that miR-202, a member of the let-7 family, prevents precocious spermatogonial differentiation and meiotic initiation in spermatogenesis by regulating the timely expression of many genes, including those for key regulators such as STRA8 and DMRT6. In miR-202 knockout (KO) mice, the undifferentiated spermatogonial pool is reduced, accompanied by age-dependent decline of fertility. In KO mice, SYCP3, STRA8 and DMRT6 are expressed earlier than in wild-type littermates, and Dmrt6 mRNA is a direct target of miR-202-5p. Moreover, the precocious spermatogonial differentiation and meiotic initiation were also observed in KO spermatogonial stem cells when cultured and induced in vitro, and could be partially rescued by the knockdown of Dmrt6. Therefore, we have not only shown that miR-202 is a regulator of meiotic initiation but also identified a previously unknown module in the underlying regulatory network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Chenxu Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiwen Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yan Ning
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Wei He
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chunwei Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Daoqin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Lin Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601 Anhui, China
| | - Binjie Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yuting Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Md Alim Hossen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chunsheng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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23
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Gupta A, Mandal K, Singh P, Sarkar R, Majumdar SS. Declining levels of miR-382-3p at puberty trigger the onset of spermatogenesis. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 26:192-207. [PMID: 34513304 PMCID: PMC8413679 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
A major change in the transcriptome of testicular Sertoli cells (Scs) at the onset of puberty enables them to induce robust spermatogenesis. Through comprehensive literature mining, we generated a list of genes crucial for Sc functioning and computationally predicted the microRNAs regulating them. Differential expression analysis of microRNAs in infant and pubertal rat Scs showed that miR-382-3p levels decline significantly in pubertal Scs. Interestingly, miR-382-3p was found to regulate genes like Ar and Wt1, which are crucial for functional competence of Scs. We generated a transgenic (Tg) mouse model in which pubertal decline of miR-382-3p was prevented by its overexpression in pubertal Scs. Elevated miR-382-3p restricted the functional maturation of Scs at puberty, leading to infertility. Prevention of decline in miR-382-3p expression in pubertal Scs was responsible for defective blood-testis barrier (BTB) formation, severe testicular defects, low epididymal sperm counts and loss of fertility in these mice. This provided substantial evidence that decline in levels of miR-382-3p at puberty is the essential trigger for onset of robust spermatogenesis at puberty. Hence, sustained high levels of miR-382-3p in pubertal Scs could be one of the underlying causes of idiopathic male infertility and should be considered for diagnosis and treatment of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alka Gupta
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Kamal Mandal
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Parminder Singh
- Metabolic Research Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
| | - Rajesh Sarkar
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Subeer S. Majumdar
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
- Genes and Protein Engineering Laboratory, National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
- Corresponding author: Subeer S. Majumdar, Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India.
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24
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Sellem E, Jammes H, Schibler L. Sperm-borne sncRNAs: potential biomarkers for semen fertility? Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 34:160-173. [PMID: 35231268 DOI: 10.1071/rd21276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Semen infertility or sub-fertility, whether in humans or livestock species, remains a major concern for clinicians and technicians involved in reproduction. Indeed, they can cause tragedies in human relationships or have a dramatic overall negative impact on the sustainability of livestock breeding. Understanding and predicting semen fertility issues is therefore crucial and quality control procedures as well as biomarkers have been proposed to ensure sperm fertility. However, their predictive values appeared to be too limited and additional relevant biomarkers are still required to diagnose sub-fertility efficiently. During the last decade, the study of molecular mechanisms involved in spermatogenesis and sperm maturation highlighted the regulatory role of a variety of small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) and led to the discovery that sperm sncRNAs comprise both remnants from spermatogenesis and post-testicular sncRNAs acquired through interactions with extracellular vesicles along epididymis. This has led to the hypothesis that sncRNAs may be a source of relevant biomarkers, associated either with sperm functionality or embryo development. This review aims at providing a synthetic overview of the current state of knowledge regarding implication of sncRNA in spermatogenesis defects and their putative roles in sperm maturation and embryo development, as well as exploring their use as fertility biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli Sellem
- R&D Department, ALLICE, 149 rue de Bercy, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Hélène Jammes
- Université Paris Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France; and Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
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25
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Morgan M, Kumar L, Li Y, Baptissart M. Post-transcriptional regulation in spermatogenesis: all RNA pathways lead to healthy sperm. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:8049-8071. [PMID: 34748024 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04012-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Multiple RNA pathways are required to produce functional sperm. Here, we review RNA post-transcriptional regulation during spermatogenesis with particular emphasis on the role of 3' end modifications. From early studies in the 1970s, it became clear that spermiogenesis transcripts could be stored for days only to be translated at advanced stages of spermatid differentiation. The transition between the translationally repressed and active states was observed to correlate with the shortening of the transcripts' poly(A) tail, establishing a link between RNA 3' end metabolism and male germ cell differentiation. Since then, numerous RNA metabolic pathways have been implicated not only in the progression through spermatogenesis, but also in the maintenance of genomic integrity. Recent studies have characterized the elusive 3' biogenesis of Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), identified a critical role for messenger RNA (mRNA) 3' uridylation in meiotic progression, established the mechanisms that destabilize transcripts with long 3' untranslated regions (3'UTRs) in post-mitotic cells, and defined the physiological relevance of RNA exonucleases and deadenylases in male germ cells. In this review, we discuss RNA processing in the male germline in the light of the most recent findings. A brief recollection of different RNA-processing events will aid future studies exploring post-transcriptional regulation in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Morgan
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA.
| | - Lokesh Kumar
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Yin Li
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Marine Baptissart
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
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26
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Sellem E, Marthey S, Rau A, Jouneau L, Bonnet A, Le Danvic C, Guyonnet B, Kiefer H, Jammes H, Schibler L. Dynamics of cattle sperm sncRNAs during maturation, from testis to ejaculated sperm. Epigenetics Chromatin 2021; 14:24. [PMID: 34030709 PMCID: PMC8146655 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-021-00397-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background During epididymal transit, spermatozoa go through several functional maturation steps, resulting from interactions with epididymal secretomes specific to each region. In particular, the sperm membrane is under constant remodeling, with sequential attachment and shedding of various molecules provided by the epididymal lumen fluid and epididymosomes, which also deliver sncRNA cargo to sperm. As a result, the payload of sperm sncRNAs changes during the transit from the epididymis caput to the cauda. This work was designed to study the dynamics of cattle sperm sncRNAs from spermatogenesis to final maturation. Results Comprehensive catalogues of sperm sncRNAs were obtained from testicular parenchyma, epididymal caput, corpus and cauda, as well as ejaculated semen from three Holstein bulls. The primary cattle sncRNA sperm content is markedly remodeled as sperm mature along the epididymis. Expression of piRNAs, which are abundant in testis parenchyma, decreases dramatically at epididymis. Conversely, sperm progressively acquires miRNAs, rsRNAs, and tsRNAs along epididymis, with regional specificities. For instance, miRNAs and tsRNAs are enriched in epididymis cauda and ejaculated sperm, while rsRNA expression peaks at epididymis corpus. In addition, epididymis corpus contains mainly 20 nt long piRNAs, instead of 30 nt in all other locations. Beyond the bulk differences in abundance of sncRNAs classes, K-means clustering was performed to study their spatiotemporal expression profile, highlighting differences in specific sncRNAs and providing insights into their putative biological role at each maturation stage. For instance, Gene Ontology analyses using miRNA targets highlighted enriched processes such as cell cycle regulation, response to stress and ubiquitination processes in testicular parenchyma, protein metabolism in epididymal sperm, and embryonic morphogenesis in ejaculated sperm. Conclusions Our findings confirm that the sperm sncRNAome does not simply reflect a legacy of spermatogenesis. Instead, sperm sncRNA expression shows a remarkable level of plasticity resulting probably from the combination of multiple factors such as loss of the cytoplasmic droplet, interaction with epididymosomes, and more surprisingly, the putative in situ production and/or modification of sncRNAs by sperm. Given the suggested role of sncRNA in epigenetic trans-generational inheritance, our detailed spatiotemporal analysis may pave the way for a study of sperm sncRNAs role in embryo development. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13072-021-00397-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli Sellem
- R&D Department, ALLICE, 149 rue de Bercy, 75012, Paris, France.
| | - Sylvain Marthey
- AgroParisTech, INRAE, GABI, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,INRAE, MaIAGE, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Andrea Rau
- AgroParisTech, INRAE, GABI, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,BioEcoAgro Joint Research Unit, INRAE, Université de Liège, Université de Lille, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Estrées-Mons, France
| | - Luc Jouneau
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris Saclay, 78350, Jouy en Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire D'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Aurelie Bonnet
- R&D Department, ALLICE, 149 rue de Bercy, 75012, Paris, France
| | | | - Benoît Guyonnet
- R&D Department, Union Evolution, rue Eric Tabarly, 35538, Noyal-Sur-Vilaine, France
| | - Hélène Kiefer
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris Saclay, 78350, Jouy en Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire D'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Hélène Jammes
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris Saclay, 78350, Jouy en Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire D'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
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27
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Barbu MG, Thompson DC, Suciu N, Voinea SC, Cretoiu D, Predescu DV. The Roles of MicroRNAs in Male Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22062910. [PMID: 33805594 PMCID: PMC7998158 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22062910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs applications were vastly studied throughout the years, spanning from potential cancer biomarkers to targeted therapies for various diseases. Out of these utilizations, this paper focuses on their role in male infertility. Approximately 10–15% of worldwide couples are affected by infertility. Out of these, 50% are due to male determinants. The majority of cases still have an undetermined cause. Previous studies have found that the aberrant expression of microRNAs could be linked to certain reproductive dysfunctions in males. Further on, this study looked into the most recent literature published on this subject in order to assess the connection between the up-/down-regulation of various microRNAs and the roles they play in male infertility. MicroRNAs were found to be abundant and stable in the seminal liquid, which led to a facile identification using regular RNA detection methods. It was observed that the concentration of microRNAs in semen was modified in the case of patients suffering from asthenozoospermia and azoospermia. Moreover, idiopathic male infertility was associated with a single nucleotide polymorphism of the microRNA binding site. Future studies should focus their attention on discovering future treatments against male infertility targeting specific microRNAs and also on developing new and improved contraceptive methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madalina Gabriela Barbu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 020395 Bucharest, Romania; (M.G.B.); (D.C.T.); (D.C.)
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dana Claudia Thompson
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 020395 Bucharest, Romania; (M.G.B.); (D.C.T.); (D.C.)
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicolae Suciu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 020395 Bucharest, Romania; (M.G.B.); (D.C.T.); (D.C.)
- Division of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Neonatology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Polizu Clinical Hospital, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 011061 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (N.S.); (S.C.V.)
| | - Silviu Cristian Voinea
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Institute of Oncology Prof. Dr. Alexandru Trestioreanu, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (N.S.); (S.C.V.)
| | - Dragos Cretoiu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 020395 Bucharest, Romania; (M.G.B.); (D.C.T.); (D.C.)
- Department of Cell, Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dragos Valentin Predescu
- Department of General Surgery, Sf. Maria Clinical Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 011172 Bucharest, Romania;
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28
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Zhao W, Hussain Solangi T, Wu Y, Yang X, Xu C, Wang H, Zheng X, Cai X, Zhu J. Comparative rna-seq analysis of region-specific miRNA expression in the epididymis of cattleyak. Reprod Domest Anim 2021; 56:555-576. [PMID: 33438262 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The epididymis is the site of post-testicular sperm maturation, which constitutes the acquisition of sperm motility and the ability to recognize and fertilize oocytes. The role of miRNA in male reproductive system, including the control of different steps leading to proper fertilization such as gametogenesis, sperm maturation and maintenance of male fertility where the deletion of Dicer in mouse germ cells led to infertility, has been demonstrated. The identification of miRNA expression in a region-specific manner will therefore provide valuable insight into the functional differences between the regions of the epididymis. In this study, we employed RNA-seq technology to explore the expression pattern of miRNAs and establish some miRNAs of significant interest with regard to epididymal sperm maturation in the CY epididymis. We identified a total of 431 DE known miRNAs; 119, 185 and 127 DE miRNAs were detected for caput versus corpus, corpus versus cauda and caput versus cauda region pairs, respectively. Our results demonstrate region-specific miRNA expression in the CY epididymis. The GO and KEGG enrichment for the predicted target genes indicated the functional values of miRNAs. Furthermore, we observed that the expression of miR-200a was downregulated in the caput, compared with cauda. Since the family of miR-200 has previously been suggested to contribute to the distinct physiological function of sperm maturation in epididymis of adult rat, we speculate that the downregulation of miR-200a in CY caput epididymis may play an important role of sperm maturation in the epididymis of CY. Therefore, our findings may not only increase our understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulated by the miRNA functions in region-specific miRNA expression in the CY epididymis, it could provide a valuable information to understand the mechanism of male infertility of CY.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wangsheng Zhao
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Tajmal Hussain Solangi
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Yitao Wu
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Xiankang Yang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Chuanfei Xu
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Hongmei Wang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Xuxin Zheng
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Xin Cai
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization (Southwest Minzu University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China.,Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiangjiang Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization (Southwest Minzu University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China.,Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
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29
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Zhu L, Marjani SL, Jiang Z. The Epigenetics of Gametes and Early Embryos and Potential Long-Range Consequences in Livestock Species-Filling in the Picture With Epigenomic Analyses. Front Genet 2021; 12:557934. [PMID: 33747031 PMCID: PMC7966815 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.557934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The epigenome is dynamic and forged by epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNA species. Increasing lines of evidence support the concept that certain acquired traits are derived from environmental exposure during early embryonic and fetal development, i.e., fetal programming, and can even be "memorized" in the germline as epigenetic information and transmitted to future generations. Advances in technology are now driving the global profiling and precise editing of germline and embryonic epigenomes, thereby improving our understanding of epigenetic regulation and inheritance. These achievements open new avenues for the development of technologies or potential management interventions to counteract adverse conditions or improve performance in livestock species. In this article, we review the epigenetic analyses (DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNAs) of germ cells and embryos in mammalian livestock species (cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs) and the epigenetic determinants of gamete and embryo viability. We also discuss the effects of parental environmental exposures on the epigenetics of gametes and the early embryo, and evidence for transgenerational inheritance in livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linkai Zhu
- AgCenter, School of Animal Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Sadie L Marjani
- Department of Biology, Central Connecticut State University, New Britain, CT, United States
| | - Zongliang Jiang
- AgCenter, School of Animal Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
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30
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Neto FTL, Flannigan R, Goldstein M. Regulation of Human Spermatogenesis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:255-286. [PMID: 34453741 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human spermatogenesis (HS) is an intricate network of sequential processes responsible for the production of the male gamete, the spermatozoon. These processes take place in the seminiferous tubules (ST) of the testis, which are small tubular structures considered the functional units of the testes. Each human testicle contains approximately 600-1200 STs [1], and are capable of producing up to 275 million spermatozoa per day [2].
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan Flannigan
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Marc Goldstein
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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31
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Male Factors: the Role of Sperm in Preimplantation Embryo Quality. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:1788-1811. [DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00334-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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32
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Yadav RP, Mäkelä JA, Hyssälä H, Cisneros-Montalvo S, Kotaja N. DICER regulates the expression of major satellite repeat transcripts and meiotic chromosome segregation during spermatogenesis. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:7135-7153. [PMID: 32484548 PMCID: PMC7367195 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Constitutive heterochromatin at the pericentric regions of chromosomes undergoes dynamic changes in its epigenetic and spatial organization during spermatogenesis. Accurate control of pericentric heterochromatin is required for meiotic cell divisions and production of fertile and epigenetically intact spermatozoa. In this study, we demonstrate that pericentric heterochromatin is expressed during mouse spermatogenesis to produce major satellite repeat (MSR) transcripts. We show that the endonuclease DICER localizes to the pericentric heterochromatin in the testis. Furthermore, DICER forms complexes with MSR transcripts, and their processing into small RNAs is compromised in Dicer1 knockout mice leading to an elevated level of MSR transcripts in meiotic cells. We also show that defective MSR forward transcript processing in Dicer1 cKO germ cells is accompanied with reduced recruitment of SUV39H2 and H3K9me3 to the pericentric heterochromatin and meiotic chromosome missegregation. Altogether, our results indicate that the physiological role of DICER in maintenance of male fertility extends to the regulation of pericentric heterochromatin through direct targeting of MSR transcripts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram Prakash Yadav
- Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Juho-Antti Mäkelä
- Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Hanna Hyssälä
- Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Sheyla Cisneros-Montalvo
- Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Noora Kotaja
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +358 44 2539225;
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33
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Sun J, Niu L, Gao S, Yi X, Chen J. miR-509-5p Downregulation Is Associated With Male Infertility And Acts As A Suppressor In Testicular Germ Cell Tumor Cells Through Targeting MDM2. Onco Targets Ther 2019; 12:10515-10522. [PMID: 31819532 PMCID: PMC6897070 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s215998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) has been linked with male infertility. miR-509-5p is highly expressed in testis and exerts suppressive effects on multiple types of human cancers. Objectives Yet, whether miR-509-5p is connected with male infertility and plays a role in testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) have not been explored. Materials and methods This study detected miR-509-5p expression in germ cells from MA patients, and further characterize its functional roles in the proliferation and apoptosis of TGCT cells in vitro. Results We report that miR-509-5p is downregulated in germ cells from infertile men with maturation arrest (MA), which implies an inverse association between miR-509-5p level and male infertility. In addition, miR-509-5p suppresses proliferation and induces apoptosis of TGCT cells in vitro, suggesting that it exhibits tumor-suppressive effects on TGCT. Mechanistically, miR-509-5p targets the mouse double minute 2 (MDM2), an oncogenic factor in TGCT, and moreover, restored expression of MDM2 rescues miR-509-5p suppressive effects on TGCT cells, demonstrating that miR-509-5p suppresses TGCT cells through targeting MDM2. Conclusion Collectively, these results implicate that miR-509-5p may participate in the pathogenesis of male infertility and TGCT through regulating proliferation and apoptosis, two critical cellular activities for spermatogenesis and TGCT tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxia Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi City, Shandong Province 276400, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Niu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi City, Shandong Province 276400, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanxia Gao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi City, Shandong Province 276400, People's Republic of China
| | - Xijuan Yi
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi City, Shandong Province 276400, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianxia Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi City, Shandong Province 276400, People's Republic of China
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Behzadi Fard S, Mazaheri Z, Ghorbanmehr N, Movahedin M, Behzadi Fard M, Gholampour MA. Analysis of MiRNA-17 and MiRNA-146 Expression During Differentiation of Spermatogonial Stem Like Cells Derived from Mouse Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR MEDICINE 2019; 8:14-23. [PMID: 32195202 PMCID: PMC7073265 DOI: 10.22088/ijmcm.bums.8.1.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In vitro derivation of germ cells from different stem cell sources has been challenging in the treatment of male infertility. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have an essential role in gene expression at post-transcriptional level. The aim of this research was to find more about miRNA-17 and miRNA-146 expression during differentiation of spermatogonial stem cell like cells (SSC like cells) from mouse bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) through bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4) and retinoic acid (RA) induction. BMSCs were treated with BMP4 to produce primordial germ cell like cells (PGC like cells). The cells were differentiated into SSC like cells by an inducer cocktail including RA, leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). The PGC like cells and SSC like cells were evaluated for pluripotency (Nanog, Oct-4) and germ cell specific gene (Piwil2, Plzf, Dazl, and Stra8) expression, protein expression (Plzf, Stra8), and miRNA-17 and miRNA-146 mRNA expression. Our results showed that BMP4 leads to Dazl upregulation and Nanog downregulation expression in PGC like cells. RA upregulated Stra8 and Piwil2, and downregulated Nanog and Oct-4. MiRNA-17 and miRNA-146 expression decreased significantly in SSC like cells after RA treatment. This research indicated the aberrant miRNA-17 and miRNA-146 expression in SSC like cells in comparison with SSCs. Downregulation of the two miRNAs using RA in the stimulated undifferentiated state could probably be one of the key factors of SSC like cell arrest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Behzadi Fard
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zohreh Mazaheri
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasim Ghorbanmehr
- Biotechnology Department, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mansoureh Movahedin
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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35
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Alves MBR, de Arruda RP, De Bem THC, Florez-Rodriguez SA, Sá Filho MFD, Belleannée C, Meirelles FV, da Silveira JC, Perecin F, Celeghini ECC. Sperm-borne miR-216b modulates cell proliferation during early embryo development via K-RAS. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10358. [PMID: 31316130 PMCID: PMC6637201 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-46775-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Semen fertilizing potential is dependent upon the morphological, functional and molecular attributes of sperm. Sperm microRNAs (miRNAs) were recently shown to hold promise regarding their association with different fertility phenotypes. However, their role in fertility regulation remains to be determined. We postulated that sperm miRNAs might regulate early embryonic development. From this perspective, sperm quality and 380 sperm miRNAs were investigated in frozen–thawed semen from high (HF; 54.3 ± 1.0% pregnancy rate) and low (LF; 41.5 ± 2.3%) fertility bulls. Out of nine miRNAs that showed different levels in sperm cells, miR-216b was present at lower levels in HF sperm cells and zygotes. Among miR-216b target genes (K-RAS, BECN1 and JUN), K-RAS, related to cell proliferation, revealed a higher level in HF two-cell embryos. First cleavage rate, blastocyst cell number and division number were also higher in HF. In addition, by using a model based on polyspermy embryos, we demonstrated an increase in miR-216b levels in zygotes associated with sperm cell entry. Our results shed light on a possible mechanism of paternal contribution involving sperm-borne miR-216b that modulates levels of miR-216b in zygotes and K-RAS in two-cell embryos. This modulation might regulate early development by interfering with the first cleavage and blastocyst quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maíra Bianchi Rodrigues Alves
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rubens Paes de Arruda
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tiago Henrique Camara De Bem
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Shirley Andrea Florez-Rodriguez
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Manoel Francisco de Sá Filho
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.,Alta Genetics of Brazil, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Clémence Belleannée
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Quebec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliano Coelho da Silveira
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Perecin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eneiva Carla Carvalho Celeghini
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.
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36
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Zhang F, Zhang Y, Lv X, Xu B, Zhang H, Yan J, Li H, Wu L. Evolution of an X-Linked miRNA Family Predominantly Expressed in Mammalian Male Germ Cells. Mol Biol Evol 2019; 36:663-678. [PMID: 30649414 PMCID: PMC6445303 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msz001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression. However, comprehensive expression profiles of miRNAs during mammalian spermatogenesis are lacking. Herein, we sequenced small RNAs in highly purified mouse spermatogenic cells at different stages. We found that a family of X-linked miRNAs named spermatogenesis-related miRNAs (spermiRs) is predominantly expressed in the early meiotic phases and has a conserved testis-specific high expression pattern in different mammals. We identified one spermiR homolog in opossum; this homolog might originate from THER1, a retrotransposon that is active in marsupials but extinct in current placental mammals. SpermiRs have expanded rapidly with mammalian evolution and are diverged into two clades, spermiR-L and spermiR-R, which are likely to have been generated at least in part by tandem duplication mediated by flanking retrotransposable elements. Notably, despite having undergone highly frequent lineage-specific duplication events, the sequences encoding all spermiR family members are strictly located between two protein-coding genes, Slitrk2 and Fmr1. Moreover, spermiR-Ls and spermiR-Rs have evolved different expression patterns during spermatogenesis in different mammals. Intriguingly, the seed sequences of spermiRs, which are critical for the recognition of target genes, are highly divergent within and among mammals, whereas spermiR target genes largely overlap. When miR-741, the most highly expressed spermiR, is knocked out in cultured mouse spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), another spermiR, miR-465a-5p, is dramatically upregulated and becomes the most abundant miRNA. Notably, miR-741−/− SSCs grow normally, and the genome-wide expression levels of mRNAs remain unchanged. All these observations indicate functional compensation between spermiR family members and strong coevolution between spermiRs and their targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengjuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaolong Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Beiying Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongdao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Yan
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Haipeng Li
- Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS-MPG Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ligang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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37
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Khawar MB, Mehmood R, Roohi N. MicroRNAs: Recent insights towards their role in male infertility and reproductive cancers. Bosn J Basic Med Sci 2019; 19:31-42. [PMID: 30599090 DOI: 10.17305/bjbms.2018.3477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a tightly controlled, multi-step process in which mature spermatozoa are produced. Disruption of regulatory mechanisms in spermatogenesis can lead to male infertility, various diseases of male reproductive system, or even cancer. The spermatogenic impairment in infertile men can be associated with different etiologies, and the exact molecular mechanisms are yet to be determined. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a type of non-protein coding RNAs, about 22 nucleotides long, with an essential role in post-transcriptional regulation. miRNAs have been recognized as important regulators of various biological processes, including spermatogenesis. The aim of this review is to summarize the recent literature on the role of miRNAs in spermatogenesis, male infertility and reproductive cancers, and to evaluate their potential in diagnosis, prognosis and therapy of disease. Experimental evidence shows that aberrant expression of miRNAs affects spermatogenesis at multiple stages and in different cell types, most often resulting in infertility. In more severe cases, dysregulation of miRNAs leads to cancer. miRNAs have enormous potential to be used as diagnostic and prognostic markers as well as therapeutic targets in male infertility and reproductive system diseases. However, to exploit this potential fully, we need a better understanding of miRNA-mediated regulation of spermatogenesis, including the characterization of yet unidentified miRNAs and related regulatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Babar Khawar
- Molecular Physiology/Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan State Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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38
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Identification of the X-linked germ cell specific miRNAs (XmiRs) and their functions. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0211739. [PMID: 30707741 PMCID: PMC6358104 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in multiple aspects of biology. Dicer, an RNase III endonuclease, is essential for the biogenesis of miRNAs, and the germ cell-specific Dicer1 knockout mouse shows severe defects in gametogenesis. How miRNAs regulate germ cell development is still not fully understood. In this study, we identified germ cell-specific miRNAs (miR-741-3p, miR-871-3p, miR-880-3p) by analyzing published RNA-seq data of mouse. These miRNA genes are contiguously located on the X chromosome near other miRNA genes. We named them X chromosome-linked miRNAs (XmiRs). To elucidate the functions of XmiRs, we generated knockout mice of these miRNA genes using the CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing system. Although no histological abnormalities were observed in testes of F0 mice in which each miRNA gene was disrupted, a deletion covering miR-871 and miR-880 or covering all XmiRs (ΔXmiRs) resulted in arrested spermatogenesis in meiosis in a few seminiferous tubules, indicating their redundant functions in spermatogenesis. Among candidate targets of XmiRs, we found increased expression of a gene encoding a WNT receptor, FZD4, in ΔXmiRs testis compared with that in wildtype testis. miR-871-3p and miR-880-3p repressed the expression of Fzd4 via the 3′-untranslated region of its mRNA. In addition, downstream genes of the WNT/β-catenin pathway were upregulated in ΔXmiRs testis. We also found that miR-871, miR-880, and Fzd4 were expressed in spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids, and overexpression of miR-871 and miR-880 in germ stem cells in culture repressed their increase in number and Fzd4 expression. Previous studies indicated that the WNT/β-catenin pathway enhances and represses proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonia, respectively, and our results consistently showed that stable β-catenin enhanced GSC number. In addition, stable β-catenin partially rescued reduced GSC number by overexpression of miR-871 and miR-880. The results together suggest that miR-871 and miR-880 cooperatively regulate the WNT/β-catenin pathway during testicular germ cell development.
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39
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Nagirnaja L, Aston KI, Conrad DF. Genetic intersection of male infertility and cancer. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:20-26. [PMID: 29307395 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Recent epidemiological studies have identified an association between male factor infertility and increased cancer risk, however, the underlying etiology for the shared risk has not been investigated. It is likely that much of the association between the two disease states can be attributed to underlying genetic lesions. In this article we review the reported associations between cancer and spermatogenic defects, and through database searches we identify candidate genes and gene classes that could explain some of the observed shared genetic risk. We discuss the importance of fully characterizing the genetic basis for the relationship between cancer and male factor infertility and propose future studies to that end.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liina Nagirnaja
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Donald F Conrad
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri.
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40
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Mahabadi JA, Sabzalipoor H, Nikzad H, Seyedhosseini E, Enderami SE, Gheibi Hayat SM, Sahebkar A. The role of microRNAs in embryonic stem cell and induced pluripotent stem cell differentiation in male germ cells. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:12278-12289. [PMID: 30536380 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
New perspectives have been opened by advances in stem cell research for reproductive and regenerative medicine. Several different cell types can be differentiated from stem cells (SCs) under suitable in vitro and in vivo conditions. The differentiation of SCs into male germ cells has been reported by many groups. Due to their unlimited pluripotency and self-renewal, embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be used as valuable tools for drug delivery, disease modeling, developmental studies, and cell-based therapies in regenerative medicine. The unique features of SCs are controlled by a dynamic interplay between extrinsic signaling pathways, and regulations at epigenetic, transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. In recent years, significant progress has been made toward better understanding of the functions and expression of specific microRNAs (miRNAs) in the maintenance of SC pluripotency. miRNAs are short noncoding molecules, which play a functional role in the regulation of gene expression. In addition, the important regulatory role of miRNAs in differentiation and dedifferentiation has been recently demonstrated. A balance between differentiation and pluripotency is maintained by miRNAs in the embryo and stem cells. This review summarizes the recent findings about the role of miRNAs in the regulation of self-renewal and pluripotency of iPSCs and ESCs, as well as their impact on cellular reprogramming and stem cell differentiation into male germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad Amini Mahabadi
- Gametogenesis Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Hamed Sabzalipoor
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Nikzad
- Gametogenesis Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Elahe Seyedhosseini
- Gametogenesis Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Seyed Ehsan Enderami
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Gheibi Hayat
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Amirhosein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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41
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Ge S, Zhao P, Liu X, Zhao Z, Liu M. Necessity to Evaluate Epigenetic Quality of the Sperm for Assisted Reproductive Technology. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:315-322. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719118808907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shaoqin Ge
- Hebei University Health Science Center, Baoding, China
- The Institute for Reproductive Medicine of Hebei University, Baoding, China
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine of Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Penghui Zhao
- Hebei University Health Science Center, Baoding, China
| | - Xuanchen Liu
- Hebei University Health Science Center, Baoding, China
| | - Zhenghui Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Meiyun Liu
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine of Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, China
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42
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Fu H, Zhou F, Yuan Q, Zhang W, Qiu Q, Yu X, He Z. miRNA-31-5p Mediates the Proliferation and Apoptosis of Human Spermatogonial Stem Cells via Targeting JAZF1 and Cyclin A2. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2018; 14:90-100. [PMID: 30583099 PMCID: PMC6305686 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 11/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence highlight the important application of human spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in translational medicine. The fate decisions of SSCs are mainly mediated by genetic and epigenetic factors. We have recently demonstrated that PAK1 regulates the proliferation, DNA synthesis, and early apoptosis of human SSCs through the PDK1/KDR/ZNF367 and ERK1/2 and AKT pathway. However, the underlying epigenetic mechanism of PAK1 in human SSCs remains unknown. In this study, we found that the level of miRNA-31-5p was elevated by PAK1 knockdown. CCK-8, PCNA, and 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EDU) assays revealed that miRNA-31-5p mimics inhibited cell proliferation and DNA synthesis of human SSCs. Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining and flow cytometry showed that miRNA-31-5p increased the early and late apoptosis of human SSCs. Furthermore, JAZF1 was predicted and verified as a target of miRNA-31-5p, and the three-dimensional (3D) structure model of JAZF1 protein was illustrated. JAZF1 silencing led to a reduction of cell proliferation and DNA synthesis as well as an enhancement of the early and late apoptosis of human SSCs. Finally, miRNA-31-5p mimics decreased the level of cyclin A2 rather than cyclin D1 or cyclin E1, and JAZF1 knockdown led to the reduction of cyclin A2 in human SSCs. Collectively, miRNA-31-5p regulates the proliferation, DNA synthesis, and apoptosis of human SSCs by the PAK1-JAZF1-cyclin A2 pathway. This study thus offers a novel insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying the fate determinations of human SSCs and might provide novel targets for molecular therapy of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyong Fu
- Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pu Jian Road, Shanghai 200127, China; The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, 127 Dongming Road, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China
| | - Fan Zhou
- Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pu Jian Road, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Qingqing Yuan
- Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pu Jian Road, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Wenhui Zhang
- Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pu Jian Road, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Qianqian Qiu
- Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pu Jian Road, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Xing Yu
- Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Zuping He
- Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China; Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pu Jian Road, Shanghai 200127, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200127, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
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43
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Pradillo M, Santos JL. Genes involved in miRNA biogenesis affect meiosis and fertility. Chromosome Res 2018; 26:233-241. [PMID: 30343461 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-018-9588-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small (containing about 22 nucleotides) single-stranded non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level in plants and animals, being absent from unicellular organisms. They act on diverse key physiological and cellular processes, such as development and tissue differentiation, cell identity, cell cycle progression, and programmed cell death. They are also likely to be involved in a broad spectrum of human diseases. Particularly, this review examines and summarizes work characterizing the function of miRNAs in gametogenesis and fertility. Although numerous studies have elucidated the involvement of reproductive-specific small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) in regulating germ cell development and meiosis, less is known about the role of miRNAs in these processes. We focus on the study of hypomorphic and null alleles of genes encoding components of miRNA biogenesis in both plants (Arabidopsis thaliana) and mammals (Mus musculus). We compare the consequences of the presence of these mutations on male meiosis in both species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Pradillo
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Juan L Santos
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University, 28040, Madrid, Spain
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44
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Reza AMMT, Choi YJ, Han SG, Song H, Park C, Hong K, Kim JH. Roles of microRNAs in mammalian reproduction: from the commitment of germ cells to peri-implantation embryos. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2018; 94:415-438. [PMID: 30151880 PMCID: PMC7379200 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are active regulators of numerous biological and physiological processes including most of the events of mammalian reproduction. Understanding the biological functions of miRNAs in the context of mammalian reproduction will allow a better and comparative understanding of fertility and sterility in male and female mammals. Herein, we summarize recent progress in miRNA‐mediated regulation of mammalian reproduction and highlight the significance of miRNAs in different aspects of mammalian reproduction including the biogenesis of germ cells, the functionality of reproductive organs, and the development of early embryos. Furthermore, we focus on the gene expression regulatory feedback loops involving hormones and miRNA expression to increase our understanding of germ cell commitment and the functioning of reproductive organs. Finally, we discuss the influence of miRNAs on male and female reproductive failure, and provide perspectives for future studies on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abu Musa Md Talimur Reza
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Jung Choi
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Gu Han
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology of Animal Resources, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyuk Song
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Chankyu Park
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwonho Hong
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Hoi Kim
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
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RNA processing in the male germline: Mechanisms and implications for fertility. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2018; 79:80-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2017.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Harchegani AB, Shafaghatian H, Tahmasbpour E, Shahriary A. Regulatory Functions of MicroRNAs in Male Reproductive Health: A New Approach to Understanding Male Infertility. Reprod Sci 2018:1933719118765972. [PMID: 29587612 DOI: 10.1177/1933719118765972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a novel class of small noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) that play critical roles in regulation of gene expression, especially at posttranscriptional level. Over the past decade, the degree to which miRNAs are involved in male infertility has become clear. They are expressed in a cell- or phase-specific manner during spermatogenesis and play crucial role in male reproductive health. Therefore, dysregulation of miRNAs in testicular cells can be considered as a molecular basis for reproductive failure and male infertility. The abnormal expression pattern of miRNAs can be transmitted to the offspring via assisted reproductive techniques (ART) and results in the birth of children with a higher risk of infertility, congenital abnormalities, and morbidity. This review expounds on the miRNAs reported to play essential roles in somatic cells development, germ cells differentiation, steroidogenesis, normal spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, and male infertility, as well as emphasizes their importance as minimally invasive biomarkers of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asghar Beigi Harchegani
- 1 Chemical Injuries Research Center, System Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Shafaghatian
- 1 Chemical Injuries Research Center, System Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Eisa Tahmasbpour
- 2 Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Biomedical Innovations, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Shahriary
- 1 Chemical Injuries Research Center, System Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Laqqan M, Hammadeh ME. Aberrations in sperm DNA methylation patterns of males suffering from reduced fecundity. Andrologia 2017; 50. [PMID: 29072328 DOI: 10.1111/and.12913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the aberrations in sperm DNA methylation patterns of males suffering from reduced fecundity. A total of 108 males (65 males suffering from reduced fecundity as cases and 43 proven fertile males as a control) were included in the study. Thirty samples were subjected to 450K arrays as a screening phase, and then, three CpG sites located in the following genes: TYRO3, CGβ and FAM189A1 were selected to validate on 78 samples using deep bisulphite sequencing. A significant difference in the methylation level was found between cases and controls at all CpGs in TYRO3 gene-related amplicon (CpG1, p ≤ .003, CpG2, p ≤ .0001, CpG3, p ≤ .003 and CpG4, p ≤ .030) and CpG1 in CGβ gene-related amplicon (p ≤ .0001). Besides, a significant difference was found at two CpGs (CpG1, p ≤ .004 and CpG2, p ≤ .002) tested in the FAM189A1 gene-related amplicon. A significant correlation was found between the methylation level at CpG1 in the FAM189A1 gene and the different types of sperm motility. In conclusion, an alteration in the methylation levels of sperm DNA from males with reduced fecundity was showed. In addition, a relationship between variations in the methylation level of these CpGs and sperm motility has been observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Laqqan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Laboratory, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - M E Hammadeh
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Laboratory, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
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Skaftnesmo KO, Edvardsen RB, Furmanek T, Crespo D, Andersson E, Kleppe L, Taranger GL, Bogerd J, Schulz RW, Wargelius A. Integrative testis transcriptome analysis reveals differentially expressed miRNAs and their mRNA targets during early puberty in Atlantic salmon. BMC Genomics 2017; 18:801. [PMID: 29047327 PMCID: PMC5648517 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-017-4205-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our understanding of the molecular mechanisms implementing pubertal maturation of the testis in vertebrates is incomplete. This topic is relevant in Atlantic salmon aquaculture, since precocious male puberty negatively impacts animal welfare and growth. We hypothesize that certain miRNAs modulate mRNAs relevant for the initiation of puberty. To explore which miRNAs regulate mRNAs during initiation of puberty in salmon, we performed an integrated transcriptome analysis (miRNA and mRNA-seq) of salmon testis at three stages of development: an immature, long-term quiescent stage, a prepubertal stage just before, and a pubertal stage just after the onset of single cell proliferation activity in the testis. RESULTS Differentially expressed miRNAs clustered into 5 distinct expression profiles related to the immature, prepubertal and pubertal salmon testis. Potential mRNA targets of these miRNAs were predicted with miRmap and filtered for mRNAs displaying negatively correlated expression patterns. In summary, this analysis revealed miRNAs previously known to be regulated in immature vertebrate testis (miR-101, miR-137, miR-92b, miR-18a, miR-20a), but also miRNAs first reported here as regulated in the testis (miR-new289, miR-30c, miR-724, miR-26b, miR-new271, miR-217, miR-216a, miR-135a, miR-new194 and the novel predicted n268). By KEGG enrichment analysis, progesterone signaling and cell cycle pathway genes were found regulated by these differentially expressed miRNAs. During the transition into puberty we found differential expression of miRNAs previously associated (let7a/b/c), or newly associated (miR-15c, miR-2184, miR-145 and the novel predicted n7a and b) with this stage. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that mRNAs of the Wnt, Hedgehog and Apelin signaling pathways were potential regulated targets during the transition into puberty. Likewise, several regulated miRNAs in the pubertal stage had earlier been associated (miR-20a, miR-25, miR-181a, miR-202, let7c/d/a, miR-125b, miR-222a/b, miR-190a) or have now been found connected (miR-2188, miR-144, miR-731, miR-8157 and the novel n2) to the initiation of puberty. CONCLUSIONS This study has - for the first time - linked testis maturation to specific miRNAs and their inversely correlated expressed targets in Atlantic salmon. The study indicates a broad functional conservation of already known miRNAs and associated pathways involved in the transition into puberty in vertebrates. The analysis also reveals miRNAs not previously associated with testis tissue or its maturation, which calls for further functional studies in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- K O Skaftnesmo
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817, Bergen, Norway.
| | - R B Edvardsen
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817, Bergen, Norway
| | - T Furmanek
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817, Bergen, Norway
| | - D Crespo
- Reproductive Biology group, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - E Andersson
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817, Bergen, Norway
| | - L Kleppe
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817, Bergen, Norway
| | - G L Taranger
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817, Bergen, Norway
| | - J Bogerd
- Reproductive Biology group, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - R W Schulz
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817, Bergen, Norway.,Reproductive Biology group, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - A Wargelius
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817, Bergen, Norway
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Distinct Expression Profiles and Novel Targets of MicroRNAs in Human Spermatogonia, Pachytene Spermatocytes, and Round Spermatids between OA Patients and NOA Patients. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2017; 9:182-194. [PMID: 29246297 PMCID: PMC5645173 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Human spermatogenesis includes three main stages, namely, the mitosis of spermatogonia, meiosis of spermatocytes, and spermiogenesis of spermatids, which are precisely regulated by epigenetic and genetic factors. Abnormality of epigenetic and genetic factors can result in aberrant spermatogenesis and eventual male infertility. However, epigenetic regulators in controlling each stage of normal and abnormal human spermatogenesis remain unknown. Here, we have revealed for the first time the distinct microRNA profiles in human spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes, and round spermatids between obstructive azoospermia (OA) patients and non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) patients. Human spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes, and round spermatids from OA patients and NOA patients were isolated using STA-PUT velocity sedimentation and identified by numerous hallmarks for these cells. RNA deep sequencing showed that 396 microRNAs were differentially expressed in human spermatogonia between OA patients and NOA patients and 395 differentially expressed microRNAs were found in human pachytene spermatocytes between OA patients and NOA patients. Moreover, 378 microRNAs were differentially expressed in human round spermatids between OA patients and NOA patients. The differential expression of numerous microRNAs identified by RNA deep sequencing was verified by real-time PCR. Moreover, a number of novel targeting genes for microRNAs were predicted using various kinds of software and further verified by real-time PCR. This study thus sheds novel insights into epigenetic regulation of human normal spermatogenesis and the etiology of azoospermia, and it could offer new targets for molecular therapy to treat male infertility.
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Hilz S, Modzelewski AJ, Cohen PE, Grimson A. The roles of microRNAs and siRNAs in mammalian spermatogenesis. Development 2017; 143:3061-73. [PMID: 27578177 PMCID: PMC5047671 DOI: 10.1242/dev.136721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs and siRNAs, both of which are AGO-bound small RNAs, are essential for mammalian spermatogenesis. Although their precise germline roles remain largely uncharacterized, recent discoveries suggest that they function in mechanisms beyond microRNA-mediated post-transcriptional control, playing roles in DNA repair and transcriptional regulation within the nucleus. Here, we discuss the latest findings regarding roles for AGO proteins and their associated small RNAs in the male germline. We integrate genetic, clinical and genomics data, and draw upon findings from non-mammalian models, to examine potential roles for AGO-bound small RNAs during spermatogenesis. Finally, we evaluate the emerging and differing roles for AGOs and AGO-bound small RNAs in the male and female germlines, suggesting potential reasons for these sexual dimorphisms. Summary: This Review article summarizes the latest findings regarding roles for AGO proteins and their associated small RNAs in the male germline, with a particular focus on spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Hilz
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Andrew J Modzelewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Paula E Cohen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Andrew Grimson
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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