1
|
Liu W, Du L, Li J, He Y, Tang M. Microenvironment of spermatogonial stem cells: a key factor in the regulation of spermatogenesis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:294. [PMID: 39256786 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03893-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) play a crucial role in the male reproductive system, responsible for maintaining continuous spermatogenesis. The microenvironment or niche of SSCs is a key factor in regulating their self-renewal, differentiation and spermatogenesis. This microenvironment consists of multiple cell types, extracellular matrix, growth factors, hormones and other molecular signals that interact to form a complex regulatory network. This review aims to provide an overview of the main components of the SSCs microenvironment, explore how they regulate the fate decisions of SSCs, and discuss the potential impact of microenvironmental abnormalities on male reproductive health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University/Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Li Du
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, The Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Junjun Li
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University/Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Yan He
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University/Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China.
| | - Mengjie Tang
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University/Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Adami LNG, Moysés-Oliveira M, Souza-Cunha LA, Vasco MB, Tufik S, Andersen ML. Lipid metabolism and neuromuscular junction as common pathways underlying the genetic basis of erectile dysfunction and obstructive sleep apnea. Int J Impot Res 2024; 36:614-620. [PMID: 37990110 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-023-00795-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) incidence is higher in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Studies have suggested that ED and OSA may activate similar pathways; however, few have investigated the links between their underlying genotypic profiles. Therefore, we conducted an in-silico analysis to test whether ED and OSA share genetic variants of risk and to identify any molecular, cellular and biological interactions between them. Two gene lists were manually curated through a literature review based on a PUBMED search, which resulted in one gene list associated with ED (total of 205 genes) and the other with OSA (total of 2622 genes). Between those gene sets, 35 were common for both lists (Fisher exact test, p-value = 0.027). The Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis using the intersect list as input showed that 3 of them had direct interactions (LPL, DGKB and PLCB1). In addition, the biological function of the genes contained in the intersect list suggested that pathways related to lipid metabolism and the neuromuscular junction were commonly found in the genetic basis of ED and OSA. From the shared genes between both conditions, the biological pathways highlighted in this study may serve as preliminary findings for future functional investigations on OSA and ED association.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luana N G Adami
- Sleep Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Matheus Brandão Vasco
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Disciplina de Urologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sergio Tufik
- Sleep Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Monica L Andersen
- Sleep Institute, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wu J, Tan S, Zhou Y, Zhao H, Yu H, Zhong B, Yu C, Wang H, Yang Y, Li H, Li Y. Clinical and gonadal transcriptome analysis of 38,XX disorder of sex development pigs†. Biol Reprod 2024; 111:212-226. [PMID: 38531779 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Pigs serve as a robust animal model for the study of human diseases, notably in the context of disorders of sex development (DSD). This study aims to investigate the phenotypic characteristics and molecular mechanisms underlying the reproductive and developmental abnormalities of 38,XX ovotestis-DSD (OT-DSD) and 38,XX testis-DSD (T-DSD) in pigs. Clinical and transcriptome sequencing analyses were performed on DSD and normal female pigs. Cytogenetic and SRY analyses confirmed that OT/T-DSD pigs exhibited a 38,XX karyotype and lacked the SRY gene. The DSD pigs had higher levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and progesterone, but lower testosterone levels when compared with normal male pigs. The reproductive organs of OT/T-DSD pigs exhibit abnormal development, displaying both male and female characteristics, with an absence of germ cells in the seminiferous tubules. Sex determination and development-related differentially expressed genes shared between DSD pigs were identified in the gonads, including WT1, DKK1, CTNNB1, WTN9B, SHOC, PTPN11, NRG1, and NXK3-1. DKK1 is proposed as a candidate gene for investigating the regulatory mechanisms underlying gonadal phenotypic differences between OT-DSD and T-DSD pigs. Consequently, our findings provide insights into the molecular pathogenesis of DSD pigs and present an animal model for studying into DSD in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinhua Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Shuwen Tan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Haiquan Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Hui Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Bingzhou Zhong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Congying Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Haoming Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Yin Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Hua Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Yugu Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nguyen HT, Martin LJ. Classical cadherins in the testis: how are they regulated? Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 35:641-660. [PMID: 37717581 DOI: 10.1071/rd23084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cadherins (CDH) are crucial intercellular adhesion molecules, contributing to morphogenesis and creating tissue barriers by regulating cells' movement, clustering and differentiation. In the testis, classical cadherins such as CDH1, CDH2 and CDH3 are critical to gonadogenesis by promoting the migration and the subsequent clustering of primordial germ cells with somatic cells. While CDH2 is present in both Sertoli and germ cells in rodents, CDH1 is primarily detected in undifferentiated spermatogonia. As for CDH3, its expression is mainly found in germ and pre-Sertoli cells in developing gonads until the establishment of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). This barrier is made of Sertoli cells forming intercellular junctional complexes. The restructuring of the BTB allows the movement of early spermatocytes toward the apical compartment as they differentiate during a process called spermatogenesis. CDH2 is among many junctional proteins participating in this process and is regulated by several pathways. While cytokines promote the disassembly of the BTB by enhancing junctional protein endocytosis for degradation, testosterone facilitates the assembly of the BTB by increasing the recycling of endocytosed junctional proteins. Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are also mediators of the BTB kinetics in many chemically induced damages in the testis. In addition to regulating Sertoli cell functions, follicle stimulating hormone can also regulate the expression of CDH2. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on regulatory mechanisms of cadherin localisation and expression in the testis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ha Tuyen Nguyen
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Luc J Martin
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Xie Y, Wu C, Li Z, Wu Z, Hong L. Early Gonadal Development and Sex Determination in Mammal. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147500. [PMID: 35886859 PMCID: PMC9323860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex determination is crucial for the transmission of genetic information through generations. In mammal, this process is primarily regulated by an antagonistic network of sex-related genes beginning in embryonic development and continuing throughout life. Nonetheless, abnormal expression of these sex-related genes will lead to reproductive organ and germline abnormalities, resulting in disorders of sex development (DSD) and infertility. On the other hand, it is possible to predetermine the sex of animal offspring by artificially regulating sex-related gene expression, a recent research hotspot. In this paper, we reviewed recent research that has improved our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the development of the gonad and primordial germ cells (PGCs), progenitors of the germline, to provide new directions for the treatment of DSD and infertility, both of which involve manipulating the sex ratio of livestock offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanshe Xie
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Changhua Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Zicong Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Correspondence: (Z.W.); (L.H.)
| | - Linjun Hong
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Correspondence: (Z.W.); (L.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Understanding the Underlying Molecular Mechanisms of Meiotic Arrest during In Vitro Spermatogenesis in Rat Prepubertal Testicular Tissue. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23115893. [PMID: 35682573 PMCID: PMC9180380 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23115893] [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: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro spermatogenesis appears to be a promising approach to restore the fertility of childhood cancer survivors. The rat model has proven to be challenging, since germ cell maturation is arrested in organotypic cultures. Here, we report that, despite a meiotic entry, abnormal synaptonemal complexes were found in spermatocytes, and in vitro matured rat prepubertal testicular tissues displayed an immature phenotype. RNA-sequencing analyses highlighted up to 600 differentially expressed genes between in vitro and in vivo conditions, including genes involved in blood-testis barrier (BTB) formation and steroidogenesis. BTB integrity, the expression of two steroidogenic enzymes, and androgen receptors were indeed altered in vitro. Moreover, most of the top 10 predicted upstream regulators of deregulated genes were involved in inflammatory processes or immune cell recruitment. However, none of the three anti-inflammatory molecules tested in this study promoted meiotic progression. By analysing for the first time in vitro matured rat prepubertal testicular tissues at the molecular level, we uncovered the deregulation of several genes and revealed that defective BTB function, altered steroidogenic pathway, and probably inflammation, could be at the origin of meiotic arrest.
Collapse
|
8
|
Makoolati Z, Bahrami H, Zamanzadeh Z, Mahaldashtian M, Moulazadeh A, Ebrahimi L, Naghdi M. Efficacy of Ficus carica leaf extract on morphological and molecular behavior of mice germ stem cells. Anim Reprod 2022; 19:e20220036. [PMID: 36060818 PMCID: PMC9417092 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2022-0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is one of the most prevalent health disorders in reproductive-age males and females. Ficus carica (Fc), an herbal plant, has been used traditionally for the treatment of different diseases such as infertility especially in Iranian folk medicine. This study examined the effects of Fc leaf extract on the proliferation of mice spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Phenolic, flavonoid content, major polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant activity of the extract was evaluated respectively by Folin-Ciocateu, aluminum chloride, HPLC and the FRAP and DPPH methods. Testicular cells of neonate mice were extracted and their identity was confirmed using cytokeratin for Sertoli and Oct-4, CDHI and PLZF for SSCs. Effects of Fc (0.0875, 0.175, 0.35, 0.71 and 1.42 mg/ml) was evaluated at third, 7th, 9th and 14th days of culture by colony assay. The expression of the Mvh, GFRα1 and Oct-4 genes and the viability and proliferation of cultured cells was assessed at the end of the culture period. The extract has a rich phenolic and flavonoid content such as Rutin, Psoralen, Bergapten and Caffeoylmalic acid using HPLC analysis. It also had a potent reducing and radical scavenging activity. Morphology of colonies was similar in all groups. Higher viability, proliferation, colony number and diameter of SSCs was seen in the presence of Fc leaf extract in a dose-dependent manner so that higher number and diameter of colonies were observed in two higher doses of 0.71 and 1.42 mg/ml, separately for each time point relative to other groups. The Mvh, Oct-4 and GFRα1 genes expression had no significant differences between groups. It seems that Fc leaf extract not only had no any cytotoxic effects on the viability and proliferation of SSCs but also support their stemness state. So, this culture system can be employed for enrichment of germ stem cells for use in clinical applications.
Collapse
|
9
|
Mäkelä JA, Toppari J. Retinoblastoma-E2F Transcription Factor Interplay Is Essential for Testicular Development and Male Fertility. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:903684. [PMID: 35663332 PMCID: PMC9161260 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.903684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The retinoblastoma (RB) protein family members (pRB, p107 and p130) are key regulators of cell cycle progression, but also play crucial roles in apoptosis, and stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. RB proteins exert their effects through binding to E2F transcription factors, which are essential developmental and physiological regulators of tissue and organ homeostasis. According to the canonical view, phosphorylation of RB results in release of E2Fs and induction of genes needed for progress of the cell cycle. However, there are eight members in the E2F transcription factor family with both activator (E2F1-3a) and repressor (E2F3b-E2F8) roles, highlighting the functional diversity of RB-E2F pathway. In this review article we summarize the data showing that RB-E2F interaction is a key cell-autonomous mechanism responsible for establishment and maintenance of lifelong male fertility. We also review the expression pattern of RB proteins and E2F transcription factors in the testis and male germ cells. The available evidence supports that RB and E2F family members are widely and dynamically expressed in the testis, and they are known to have versatile roles during spermatogenesis. Knowledge of the function and significance of RB-E2F interplay for testicular development and spermatogenesis comes primarily from gene knock-out (KO) studies. Several studies conducted in Sertoli cell-specific pRB-KO mice have demonstrated that pRB-mediated inhibition of E2F3 is essential for Sertoli cell functional maturation and cell cycle exit, highlighting that RB-E2F interaction in Sertoli cells is paramount to male fertility. Similarly, ablation of either pRB or E2F1 in the germline results in progressive testicular atrophy due to germline stem cell (GSC) depletion, emphasizing the importance of proper RB-E2F interplay for germline maintenance and lifelong sperm production. In summary, while balanced RB-E2F interplay is essential for cell-autonomous maintenance of GSCs and, the pRB-E2F3 system in Sertoli cells is critical for providing GSC niche thus laying the basis for spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juho-Antti Mäkelä
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- *Correspondence: Jorma Toppari,
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Djari C, Sahut-Barnola I, Septier A, Plotton I, Montanier N, Dufour D, Levasseur A, Wilmouth J, Pointud JC, Faucz FR, Kamilaris C, Lopez AG, Guillou F, Swain A, Vainio SJ, Tauveron I, Val P, Lefebvre H, Stratakis CA, Martinez A, Lefrançois-Martinez AM. Protein kinase A drives paracrine crisis and WNT4-dependent testis tumor in Carney complex. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:146910. [PMID: 34850745 DOI: 10.1172/jci146910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Large-cell calcifying Sertoli cell tumors (LCCSCTs) are among the most frequent lesions occurring in male Carney complex (CNC) patients. Although they constitute a key diagnostic criterion for this rare multiple neoplasia syndrome resulting from inactivating mutations of the tumor suppressor PRKAR1A, leading to unrepressed PKA activity, LCCSCT pathogenesis and origin remain elusive. Mouse models targeting Prkar1a inactivation in all somatic populations or separately in each cell type were generated to decipher the molecular and paracrine networks involved in the induction of CNC testis lesions. We demonstrate that the Prkar1a mutation was required in both stromal and Sertoli cells for the occurrence of LCCSCTs. Integrative analyses comparing transcriptomic, immunohistological data and phenotype of mutant mouse combinations led to the understanding of human LCCSCT pathogenesis and demonstrated PKA-induced paracrine molecular circuits in which the aberrant WNT4 signal production is a limiting step in shaping intratubular lesions and tumor expansion both in a mouse model and in human CNC testes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cyril Djari
- iGReD, Université Clermont-Auvergne, CNRS6293, INSERM U1103, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Amandine Septier
- iGReD, Université Clermont-Auvergne, CNRS6293, INSERM U1103, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Ingrid Plotton
- UM Pathologies Endocriniennes Rénales Musculaires et Mucoviscidose, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Nathanaëlle Montanier
- iGReD, Université Clermont-Auvergne, CNRS6293, INSERM U1103, Clermont-Ferrand, France.,Université Clermont-Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Damien Dufour
- iGReD, Université Clermont-Auvergne, CNRS6293, INSERM U1103, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Adrien Levasseur
- iGReD, Université Clermont-Auvergne, CNRS6293, INSERM U1103, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - James Wilmouth
- iGReD, Université Clermont-Auvergne, CNRS6293, INSERM U1103, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Fabio R Faucz
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Crystal Kamilaris
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Antoine-Guy Lopez
- Normandie University, UNIROUEN, INSERM U1239, Rouen University Hospital, Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolic Diseases and CIC-CRB 140h4, Rouen, France
| | | | - Amanda Swain
- Division of Cancer Biology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Seppo J Vainio
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Igor Tauveron
- iGReD, Université Clermont-Auvergne, CNRS6293, INSERM U1103, Clermont-Ferrand, France.,Université Clermont-Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Pierre Val
- iGReD, Université Clermont-Auvergne, CNRS6293, INSERM U1103, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Hervé Lefebvre
- Normandie University, UNIROUEN, INSERM U1239, Rouen University Hospital, Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolic Diseases and CIC-CRB 140h4, Rouen, France
| | - Constantine A Stratakis
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Antoine Martinez
- iGReD, Université Clermont-Auvergne, CNRS6293, INSERM U1103, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Carroll PA, Freie BW, Cheng PF, Kasinathan S, Gu H, Hedrich T, Dowdle JA, Venkataramani V, Ramani V, Wu X, Raftery D, Shendure J, Ayer DE, Muller CH, Eisenman RN. The glucose-sensing transcription factor MLX balances metabolism and stress to suppress apoptosis and maintain spermatogenesis. PLoS Biol 2021; 19:e3001085. [PMID: 34669700 PMCID: PMC8528285 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Male germ cell (GC) production is a metabolically driven and apoptosis-prone process. Here, we show that the glucose-sensing transcription factor (TF) MAX-Like protein X (MLX) and its binding partner MondoA are both required for male fertility in the mouse, as well as survival of human tumor cells derived from the male germ line. Loss of Mlx results in altered metabolism as well as activation of multiple stress pathways and GC apoptosis in the testes. This is concomitant with dysregulation of the expression of male-specific GC transcripts and proteins. Our genomic and functional analyses identify loci directly bound by MLX involved in these processes, including metabolic targets, obligate components of male-specific GC development, and apoptotic effectors. These in vivo and in vitro studies implicate MLX and other members of the proximal MYC network, such as MNT, in regulation of metabolism and differentiation, as well as in suppression of intrinsic and extrinsic death signaling pathways in both spermatogenesis and male germ cell tumors (MGCTs).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick A. Carroll
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Brian W. Freie
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Pei Feng Cheng
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Sivakanthan Kasinathan
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Haiwei Gu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Theresa Hedrich
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - James A. Dowdle
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Vivek Venkataramani
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Vijay Ramani
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Xiaoying Wu
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Daniel Raftery
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Jay Shendure
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Brotman Baty Institute for Precision Medicine, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Donald E. Ayer
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Charles H. Muller
- Male Fertility Lab, Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Robert N. Eisenman
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pitzer LM, Moroney MR, Nokoff NJ, Sikora MJ. WNT4 Balances Development vs Disease in Gynecologic Tissues and Women's Health. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6272210. [PMID: 33963381 PMCID: PMC8197283 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The WNT family of proteins is crucial in numerous developmental pathways and tissue homeostasis. WNT4, in particular, is uniquely implicated in the development of the female phenotype in the fetus, and in the maintenance of müllerian and reproductive tissues. WNT4 dysfunction or dysregulation can drive sex-reversal syndromes, highlighting the key role of WNT4 in sex determination. WNT4 is also critical in gynecologic pathologies later in life, including several cancers, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and infertility. The role of WNT4 in normal decidualization, implantation, and gestation is being increasingly appreciated, while aberrant activation of WNT4 signaling is being linked both to gynecologic and breast cancers. Notably, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at the WNT4 gene locus are strongly associated with these pathologies and may functionally link estrogen and estrogen receptor signaling to upregulation and activation of WNT4 signaling. Importantly, in each of these developmental and disease states, WNT4 gene expression and downstream WNT4 signaling are regulated and executed by myriad tissue-specific pathways. Here, we review the roles of WNT4 in women's health with a focus on sex development, and gynecologic and breast pathologies, and our understanding of how WNT4 signaling is controlled in these contexts. Defining WNT4 functions provides a unique opportunity to link sex-specific signaling pathways to women's health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Pitzer
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - Marisa R Moroney
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - Natalie J Nokoff
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Endocrinology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - Matthew J Sikora
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
- Correspondence: Matthew J. Sikora, PhD; Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8104, Research Complex 1 South, Rm 5117, 12801 E 17th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA. . Twitter: @mjsikora
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Boyer A, Zhang X, Levasseur A, Abou Nader N, St-Jean G, Nagano MC, Boerboom D. Constitutive activation of CTNNB1 results in a loss of spermatogonial stem cell activity in mice. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251911. [PMID: 34015032 PMCID: PMC8136708 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis requires that a careful balance be maintained between the self-renewal of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and their commitment to the developmental pathway through which they will differentiate into spermatozoa. Recently, a series of studies employing various in vivo and in vitro models have suggested a role of the wingless-related MMTV integration site gene family/beta-catenin (WNT/CTNNB1) pathway in determining the fate of SSCs. However, conflicting data have suggested that CTNNB1 signaling may either promote SSC self-renewal or differentiation. Here, we studied the effects of sustained CTNNB1 signaling in SSCs using the Ctnnb1tm1Mmt/+; Ddx4-CreTr/+ (ΔCtnnb1) mouse model, in which a stabilized form of CTNNB1 is expressed in all germ cells. ΔCtnnb1 mice were found to have reduced testis weights and partial germ cell loss by 4 months of age. Germ cell transplantation assays showed a 49% reduction in total functional SSC numbers in 8 month-old transgenic mice. In vitro, Thy1-positive undifferentiated spermatogonia from ΔCtnnb1 mice formed 57% fewer clusters, which was associated with decreased cell proliferation. A reduction in mRNA levels of genes associated with SSC maintenance (Bcl6b, Gfra1, Plzf) and increased levels for markers associated with progenitor and differentiating spermatogonia (Kit, Rarg, Sohlh1) were detected in these cluster cells. Furthermore, RNAseq performed on these clusters revealed a network of more than 900 genes regulated by CTNNB1, indicating that CTNNB1 is an important regulator of spermatogonial fate. Together, our data support the notion that CTNNB1 signaling promotes the transition of SSCs to undifferentiated progenitor spermatogonia at the expense of their self-renewal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Boyer
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Xiangfan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Adrien Levasseur
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Nour Abou Nader
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Guillaume St-Jean
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Makoto C. Nagano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Derek Boerboom
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
SPATS1 (spermatogenesis-associated, serine-rich 1) is not essential for spermatogenesis and fertility in mouse. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251028. [PMID: 33945571 PMCID: PMC8096103 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
SPATS1 (spermatogenesis-associated, serine-rich 1) is an evolutionarily conserved, testis-specific protein that is differentially expressed during rat male meiotic prophase. Some reports have suggested a link between SPATS1 underexpression/mutation and human pathologies such as male infertility and testicular cancer. Given the absence of functional studies, we generated a Spats1 loss-of-function mouse model using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The phenotypic analysis showed no overt phenotype in Spats1-/- mice, with both males and females being fertile. Flow cytometry and histological analyses did not show differences in the testicular content and histology between WT and knockout mice. Moreover, no significant differences in sperm concentration, motility, and morphology, were observed between WT and KO mice. These results were obtained both for young adults and for aged animals. Besides, although an involvement of SPATS1 in the Wnt signaling pathway has been suggested, we did not detect changes in the expression levels of typical Wnt pathway-target genes in mutant individuals. Thus, albeit Spats1 alteration might be a risk factor for male testicular health, we hereby show that this gene is not individually essential for male fertility and spermatogenesis in mouse.
Collapse
|
15
|
Xue R, Lin W, Sun J, Watanabe M, Xu A, Araki M, Nasu Y, Tang Z, Huang P. The role of Wnt signaling in male reproductive physiology and pathology. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaaa085. [PMID: 33543289 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has shown that Wnt signaling is deeply involved in male reproductive physiology, and malfunction of the signal path can cause pathological changes in genital organs and sperm cells. These abnormalities are diverse in manifestation and have been constantly found in the knockout models of Wnt studies. Nevertheless, most of the research solely focused on a certain factor in the Wnt pathway, and there are few reports on the overall relation between Wnt signals and male reproductive physiology. In our review, Wnt findings relating to the reproductive system were sought and summarized in terms of Wnt ligands, Wnt receptors, Wnt intracellular signals and Wnt regulators. By sorting out and integrating relevant functions, as well as underlining the controversies among different reports, our review aims to offer an overview of Wnt signaling in male reproductive physiology and pathology for further mechanistic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruizhi Xue
- Department of Urology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wenfeng Lin
- Department of Urology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Jingkai Sun
- Department of Urology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Masami Watanabe
- Department of Urology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Abai Xu
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Motoo Araki
- Department of Urology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Yasutomo Nasu
- Department of Urology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Zhengyan Tang
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Peng Huang
- Department of Urology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Okayama Medical Innovation Center, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Jorgez CJ, Seth A, Wilken N, Bournat JC, Chen CH, Lamb DJ. E2F1 regulates testicular descent and controls spermatogenesis by influencing WNT4 signaling. Development 2021; 148:dev191189. [PMID: 33441379 PMCID: PMC7823160 DOI: 10.1242/dev.191189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cryptorchidism is the most common urologic birth defect in men and is a predisposing factor of male infertility and testicular cancer, yet the etiology remains largely unknown. E2F1 microdeletions and microduplications contribute to cryptorchidism, infertility and testicular tumors. Although E2f1 deletion or overexpression in mice causes spermatogenic failure, the mechanism by which E2f1 influences testicular function is unknown. This investigation revealed that E2f1-null mice develop cryptorchidism with severe gubernacular defects and progressive loss of germ cells resulting in infertility and, in rare cases, testicular tumors. It was hypothesized that germ cell depletion resulted from an increase in WNT4 levels. To test this hypothesis, the phenotype of a double-null mouse model lacking both Wnt4 and E2f1 in germ cells was analyzed. Double-null mice are fertile. This finding indicates that germ cell maintenance is dependent on E2f1 repression of Wnt4, supporting a role for Wnt4 in germ cell survival. In the future, modulation of WNT4 expression in men with cryptorchidism and spermatogenic failure due to E2F1 copy number variations may provide a novel approach to improve their spermatogenesis and perhaps their fertility potential after orchidopexy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina J Jorgez
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Abhishek Seth
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Nathan Wilken
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Juan C Bournat
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ching H Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Dolores J Lamb
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Brady Urology Department, Center for Reproductive Genomics and Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Shah W, Khan R, Shah B, Khan A, Dil S, Liu W, Wen J, Jiang X. The Molecular Mechanism of Sex Hormones on Sertoli Cell Development and Proliferation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:648141. [PMID: 34367061 PMCID: PMC8344352 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.648141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sustaining and maintaining the intricate process of spermatogenesis is liable upon hormones and growth factors acting through endocrine and paracrine pathways. The Sertoli cells (SCs) are the major somatic cells present in the seminiferous tubules and are considered to be the main regulators of spermatogenesis. As each Sertoli cell supports a specific number of germ cells, thus, the final number of Sertoli cells determines the sperm production capacity. Similarly, sex hormones are also major regulators of spermatogenesis and they can determine the proliferation of Sertoli cells. In the present review, we have critically and comprehensively discussed the role of sex hormones and some other factors that are involved in Sertoli cell proliferation, differentiation and maturation. Furthermore, we have also presented a model of Sertoli cell development based upon the recent advancement in the field of reproduction. Hence, our review article provides a general overview regarding the sex hormonal pathways governing Sertoli cell proliferation and development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ranjha Khan
- *Correspondence: Xiaohua Jiang, ; Ranjha Khan, ; Jie Wen,
| | | | | | | | | | - Jie Wen
- *Correspondence: Xiaohua Jiang, ; Ranjha Khan, ; Jie Wen,
| | - Xiaohua Jiang
- *Correspondence: Xiaohua Jiang, ; Ranjha Khan, ; Jie Wen,
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ziloochi Kashani M, Bagher Z, Asgari HR, Najafi M, Koruji M, Mehraein F. Differentiation of neonate mouse spermatogonial stem cells on three-dimensional agar/polyvinyl alcohol nanofiber scaffold. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2020; 66:202-215. [PMID: 32138551 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2020.1725927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Electrospun nanofiber matrices sufficiently mimic the structural morphology of natural extracellular matrix. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of agar/polyvinyl alcohol nanofiber (PVA) scaffold on the proliferation efficiency and differentiation potential of neonate mouse spermatogonial stem cells (SCCs). Testicular cells were isolated from testes of 40 mouse pups and were seeded in: 1) 2D cell culture plates in the absence (2D/-GF) or presence (2D/+GF) of growth factors and 2) onto agar/PVA scaffold in the absence (3D/-GF) or presence (3D/+GF) of growth factors. The cells were subsequently cultured for 4 weeks. First 2 weeks were dedicated to proliferative phase, whereas the next 2 weeks emphasized the differentiation phase. The identity of the SCCs was investigated at different time-points by flow cytometry and quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) analyses against the germ cell markers, including PLZF, Id-4, Gfrα-1, Tekt-1, and Sycp-3. After 2 weeks of culture, the 3D/+GF group showed the highest percentage of PLZF-positive cells among culture systems (P < 0.05). The expression levels of pre-meiotic markers (Id-4 and Gfrα-1) decreased significantly in all groups, particularly in 3D/+GF group after 28 days of culture. Additionally, the cells in the 3D/+GF group displayed the highest expression of meiotic (Sycp-3) and post-meiotic markers (Tekt-1) 14 days after differentiation induction. Seemingly, the combination of the agar/PVA scaffold and growth factor-supplemented medium synergistically increased the differentiation rate of mouse SSCs into meiotic and post-meiotic cells. Thus, agar/PVA nanofiber scaffolds may have the potential for applications in the restoration of infertility, especially in azoospermic males. ABBREVIATIONS 2D: two dimentional; 3D: three dimentional; bFGF: basic fibroblast growth factor; BMP-4: bone morphogenetic protein 4; DMEM: Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium; ECM: extracellular matrix; FCS: fetal calf serum; FTIR: Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy; GDNF: glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor; GF: growth factors; Gfrα-1, GDNF family co-receptor α1; Id-4, Inhibitor of DNA Binding 4; MTT: methylthiazoltetrazolium; PLZF: promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger; PVA: polyvinyl alcohol; qRT-PCR: quantitative reverse transcription PCR; RA: retinoic acid; SACS: soft agar culture system; SD: standard deviation; SEM: scanning electron microscope; SSCs: spermatogonial stem cells; Sycp-3, Synaptonemal complex protein 3; Tekt-1, Tektin 1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Ziloochi Kashani
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Zohreh Bagher
- ENT and Head & Neck Research Center and Department, the Five Senses Institute, Hazrat Rasoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Asgari
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Najafi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Mehraein
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran.,Minimally Invasive Surgery Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Harris KL, Myers MB, McKim KL, Elespuru RK, Parsons BL. Rationale and Roadmap for Developing Panels of Hotspot Cancer Driver Gene Mutations as Biomarkers of Cancer Risk. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2020; 61:152-175. [PMID: 31469467 PMCID: PMC6973253 DOI: 10.1002/em.22326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Cancer driver mutations (CDMs) are necessary and causal for carcinogenesis and have advantages as reporters of carcinogenic risk. However, little progress has been made toward developing measurements of CDMs as biomarkers for use in cancer risk assessment. Impediments for using a CDM-based metric to inform cancer risk include the complexity and stochastic nature of carcinogenesis, technical difficulty in quantifying low-frequency CDMs, and lack of established relationships between cancer driver mutant fractions and tumor incidence. Through literature review and database analyses, this review identifies the most promising targets to investigate as biomarkers of cancer risk. Mutational hotspots were discerned within the 20 most mutated genes across the 10 deadliest cancers. Forty genes were identified that encompass 108 mutational hotspot codons overrepresented in the COSMIC database; 424 different mutations within these hotspot codons account for approximately 63,000 tumors and their prevalence across tumor types is described. The review summarizes literature on the prevalence of CDMs in normal tissues and suggests such mutations are direct and indirect substrates for chemical carcinogenesis, which occurs in a spatially stochastic manner. Evidence that hotspot CDMs (hCDMs) frequently occur as tumor subpopulations is presented, indicating COSMIC data may underestimate mutation prevalence. Analyses of online databases show that genes containing hCDMs are enriched in functions related to intercellular communication. In its totality, the review provides a roadmap for the development of tissue-specific, CDM-based biomarkers of carcinogenic potential, comprised of batteries of hCDMs and can be measured by error-correct next-generation sequencing. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 61:152-175, 2020. Published 2019. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. Environmental and Molecular Mutagenesis published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Environmental Mutagen Society.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly L. Harris
- Division of Genetic and Molecular ToxicologyNational Center for Toxicological Research, US Food and Drug AdministrationJeffersonArkansas
| | - Meagan B. Myers
- Division of Genetic and Molecular ToxicologyNational Center for Toxicological Research, US Food and Drug AdministrationJeffersonArkansas
| | - Karen L. McKim
- Division of Genetic and Molecular ToxicologyNational Center for Toxicological Research, US Food and Drug AdministrationJeffersonArkansas
| | - Rosalie K. Elespuru
- Division of Biology, Chemistry and Materials ScienceCDRH/OSEL, US Food and Drug AdministrationSilver SpringMaryland
| | - Barbara L. Parsons
- Division of Genetic and Molecular ToxicologyNational Center for Toxicological Research, US Food and Drug AdministrationJeffersonArkansas
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Paduch DA, Hilz S, Grimson A, Schlegel PN, Jedlicka AE, Wright WW. Aberrant gene expression by Sertoli cells in infertile men with Sertoli cell-only syndrome. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216586. [PMID: 31071133 PMCID: PMC6508736 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cell-only (SCO) syndrome is a severe form of human male infertility seemingly characterized by the lack all spermatogenic cells. However, tubules of some SCO testes contain small patches of active spermatogenesis and thus spermatogonial stem cells. We hypothesized that these stem cells cannot replicate and seed spermatogenesis in barren areas of tubule because as-of-yet unrecognized deficits in Sertoli cell gene expression disable most stem cell niches. Performing the first thorough comparison of the transcriptomes of human testes exhibiting complete spermatogenesis with the transcriptomes of testes with SCO syndrome, we defined transcripts that are both predominantly expressed by Sertoli cells and expressed at aberrant levels in SCO testes. Some of these transcripts encode proteins required for the proper assembly of adherent and gap junctions at sites of contact with other cells, including spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Other transcripts encode GDNF, FGF8 and BMP4, known regulators of mouse SSCs. Thus, most SCO Sertoli cells can neither organize junctions at normal sites of cell-cell contact nor stimulate SSCs with adequate levels of growth factors. We propose that the critical deficits in Sertoli cell gene expression we have identified contribute to the inability of spermatogonial stem cells within small patches of spermatogenesis in some SCO testes to seed spermatogenesis to adjacent areas of tubule that are barren of spermatogenesis. Furthermore, we predict that one or more of these deficits in gene expression are primary causes of human SCO syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darius A. Paduch
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Stephanie Hilz
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Genomic Analysis and Sequencing Core Facility, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Andrew Grimson
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Peter N. Schlegel
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Anne E. Jedlicka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - William W. Wright
- Consulting Research Services, Inc, North Bergen, N.J., United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Faisal I, Cisneros-Montalvo S, Hamer G, Tuominen MM, Laurila PP, Tumiati M, Jauhiainen M, Kotaja N, Toppari J, Mäkelä JA, Kauppi L. Transcription Factor USF1 Is Required for Maintenance of Germline Stem Cells in Male Mice. Endocrinology 2019; 160:1119-1136. [PMID: 30759202 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-01088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
A prerequisite for lifelong sperm production is that spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) balance self-renewal and differentiation, yet factors required for this balance remain largely undefined. Using mouse genetics, we now demonstrate that the ubiquitously expressed transcription factor upstream stimulatory factor (USF)1 is critical for the maintenance of SSCs. We show that USF1 is not only detected in Sertoli cells as previously reported, but also in SSCs. Usf1-deficient mice display progressive spermatogenic decline as a result of age-dependent loss of SSCs. According to our data, the germ cell defect in Usf1-/- mice cannot be attributed to impairment of Sertoli cell development, maturation, or function, but instead is likely due to an inability of SSCs to maintain a quiescent state. SSCs of Usf1-/- mice undergo continuous proliferation, which provides an explanation for their age-dependent depletion. The proliferation-coupled exhaustion of SSCs in turn results in progressive degeneration of the seminiferous epithelium, gradual decrease in sperm production, and testicular atrophy. We conclude that the general transcription factor USF1 is indispensable for the proper maintenance of mammalian spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Imrul Faisal
- Genome-Scale Biology Research Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Biochemistry and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Doctoral Program in Biomedicine, Doctoral School in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sheyla Cisneros-Montalvo
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Turku Doctoral Program of Molecular Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Geert Hamer
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Minna M Tuominen
- Genome-Scale Biology Research Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pirkka-Pekka Laurila
- Genomics and Biomarkers Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Biomedicum, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Manuela Tumiati
- Genome-Scale Biology Research Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Matti Jauhiainen
- Genomics and Biomarkers Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Biomedicum, Helsinki, Finland
- Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Noora Kotaja
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Juho-Antti Mäkelä
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Liisa Kauppi
- Genome-Scale Biology Research Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Biochemistry and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Yang C, Yao C, Tian R, Zhu Z, Zhao L, Li P, Chen H, Huang Y, Zhi E, Gong Y, Xue Y, Wang H, Yuan Q, He Z, Li Z. miR-202-3p Regulates Sertoli Cell Proliferation, Synthesis Function, and Apoptosis by Targeting LRP6 and Cyclin D1 of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2018; 14:1-19. [PMID: 30513418 PMCID: PMC6280020 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2018.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in mammalian spermatogenesis, which is highly dependent on Sertoli cells. However, the functions and mechanisms of miRNAs in regulating human Sertoli cells remain largely unknown. Here, we report that hsa-miR-202-3p mediates the proliferation, apoptosis, and synthesis function of human Sertoli cells. miR-202-3p was upregulated in Sertoli cells of Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) patients compared with obstructive azoospermia (OA) patients with normal spermatogenesis. Overexpression of miR-202-3p induced Sertoli cell apoptosis and inhibited cell proliferation and synthesis, and the effects were opposite when miR-202-3p was knocked down. Lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) and Cyclin D1 of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway were identified as direct targets of miR-202-3p in Sertoli cells, which were validated by bioinformatics tools and dual-luciferase reporter assay. Differentially expressed LRP6 and Cyclin D1 between OA and SCOS Sertoli cells were also verified. LRP6 small interfering RNA (siRNA) interference not only mimicked the effects of miR-202-3p overexpression, but also antagonized the effects of miR-202-3p inhibition on Sertoli cells. Collectively, miR-202-3p controls the proliferation, apoptosis, and synthesis function of human Sertoli cells via targeting LRP6 and Cyclin D1 of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. This study thus provides a novel insight into fate determinations of human Sertoli cells and niche of human testis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Yang
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Dadao, Jiangning District, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Chencheng Yao
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ruhui Tian
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zijue Zhu
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Liangyu Zhao
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Huixing Chen
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Yuhua Huang
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Erlei Zhi
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Yuehua Gong
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Yunjing Xue
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Qingqing Yuan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Zuping He
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, 371 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China.
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Levasseur A, Paquet M, Boerboom D, Boyer A. Yes-associated protein and WW-containing transcription regulator 1 regulate the expression of sex-determining genes in Sertoli cells, but their inactivation does not cause sex reversal. Biol Reprod 2018. [PMID: 28637242 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Yes-associated protein (YAP) and WW-containing transcription regulator 1 (WWTR1) are two functionally redundant transcriptional regulators that are downstream effectors of the Hippo signaling pathway, and that act as major regulators of cell growth and differentiation. To elucidate their role in Sertoli cells, primary Sertoli cell culture from Yapflox/flox; Wwtr1flox/flox animals were infected with a Cre recombinase-expressing adenovirus. Concomitant inactivation of Yap and Wwtr1 resulted in a decrease in the mRNA levels of the male sex differentiation genes Dhh, Dmrt1, Sox9, and Wt1, whereas those of genes involved in female differentiation (Wnt4, Rspo1, and Foxl2) were induced. SOX9, FOXL2, and WNT4 proteins were regulated in the same manner as their mRNAs in response to loss of YAP and WWTR1. To further characterize the role of YAP and WWTR1 in Sertoli cells, we generated a mouse model (Yapflox/flox; Wwtr1flox/flox; Amhcre/+) in which Yap and Wwtr1 were conditionally deleted in Sertoli cells. An increase in the number of apoptotic cells was observed in the seminiferous tubules of 4 dpp mutant mice, leading to a reduction in testis weights and a decrease in the number of Sertoli cells in adult animals. Gene expression analyses of testes from 4 dpp Yapflox/flox; Wwtr1flox/flox; Amhcre/+ mice showed that Sertoli cell differentiation is initially altered, as Dhh, Dmrt1, and Sox9 mRNA levels were downregulated, whereas Wnt4 mRNA levels were increased. However, expression of these genes was not changed in older animals. Together, these results suggest a novel role of the Hippo signaling pathway in the mechanisms of sex differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrien Levasseur
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Marilène Paquet
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Derek Boerboom
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Alexandre Boyer
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Sahare MG, Suyatno, Imai H. Recent advances of in vitro culture systems for spermatogonial stem cells in mammals. Reprod Med Biol 2018; 17:134-142. [PMID: 29692670 PMCID: PMC5902468 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in the mammalian testis are unipotent stem cells for spermatozoa. They show unique cell characteristics as stem cells and germ cells after being isolated from the testis and cultured in vitro. This review introduces recent progress in the development of culture systems for the establishment of SSC lines in mammalian species, including humans. METHODS Based on the published reports, the isolation and purification of SSCs, identification and characteristics of SSCs, and culture system for mice, humans, and domestic animals have been summarized. RESULTS In mice, cell lines from SSCs are established and can be reprogrammed to show pluripotent stem cell potency that is similar to embryonic stem cells. However, it is difficult to establish cell lines for animals other than mice because of the dearth of understanding about species-specific requirements for growth factors and mechanisms supporting the self-renewal of cultured SSCs. Among the factors that are associated with the development of culture systems, the enrichment of SSCs that are isolated from the testis and the combination of growth factors are essential. CONCLUSION Providing an example of SSC culture in cattle, a rational consideration was made about how it can be possible to establish cell lines from neonatal and immature testes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahesh G Sahare
- National Facility for Gene Function in Health and Disease Indian Institute of Science, Education and Research Pune India
| | - Suyatno
- Indonesian Agency for Agricultural Research and Development Jakarta Indonesia
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology Graduate School of Agriculture Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Hiroshi Imai
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology Graduate School of Agriculture Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Fernández-Pérez D, Brieño-Enríquez MA, Isoler-Alcaraz J, Larriba E, Del Mazo J. MicroRNA dynamics at the onset of primordial germ and somatic cell sex differentiation during mouse embryonic gonad development. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2018; 24:287-303. [PMID: 29187591 PMCID: PMC5824349 DOI: 10.1261/rna.062869.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, commitment and specification of germ cell lines involves complex programs that include sex differentiation, control of proliferation, and meiotic initiation. Regulation of these processes is genetically controlled by fine-tuned mechanisms of gene regulation in which microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved. We have characterized, by small-RNA-seq and bioinformatics analyses, the miRNA expression patterns of male and female mouse primordial germ cells (PGCs) and gonadal somatic cells at embryonic stages E11.5, E12.5, and E13.5. Differential expression analyses revealed differences in the regulation of key miRNA clusters such as miR-199-214, miR-182-183-96, and miR-34c-5p, whose targets have defined roles during gonadal sexual determination in both germ and somatic cells. Extensive analyses of miRNA sequences revealed an increase in noncanonical isoforms on PGCs at E12.5 and dramatic changes of 3' isomiR expression and 3' nontemplate nucleotide additions in female PGCs at E13.5. Additionally, RT-qPCR analyses of genes encoding proteins involved in miRNA biogenesis and 3' nucleotide addition uncovered sexually and developmentally specific expression, characterized by the decay of Drosha, Dgcr8, and Xpo5 expression along gonadal development. These results demonstrate that miRNAs, their isomiRs, and miRNA machinery are differentially regulated and participate actively in gonadal sexual differentiation in both PGCs and gonadal somatic cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Fernández-Pérez
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Miguel A Brieño-Enríquez
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Javier Isoler-Alcaraz
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Eduardo Larriba
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Jesús Del Mazo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), Madrid 28040, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Cheng JM, Tang JX, Li J, Wang YQ, Wang XX, Zhang Y, Chen SR, Liu YX. Role of WNT signaling in epididymal sperm maturation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:229-236. [PMID: 29152689 PMCID: PMC5845038 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-017-1066-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Spermatozoa maturation, a process required for spermatozoa to acquire progressive motility and the ability to fertilize ova, primarily occurs in the caput and corpus of the epididymis. Despite considerable efforts, the factor(s) promoting epididymal sperm maturation remains unclear. Recently, WNT signaling has been implicated in epididymal sperm maturation. METHODS To further investigate WNT signaling function in epididymal sperm maturation, we generated Wntless conditional knockout mice (Wls cKO), Wls flox/flox ; Lcn5-Cre. RESULTS In these mice, WNTLESS (WLS), a conserved membrane protein required for all WNT protein secretion, was specifically disrupted in the principal cells of the caput epididymidis. Immunoblot analysis showed that WLS was significantly reduced in the caput epididymidis of Wls cKO mice. In the caput epididymidis of Wls cKO mice, WNT 10A and WNT 2b, which are typically secreted by the principal cells of the caput epididymis, were not secreted. Interestingly, sperm motility analysis showed that the WLS deficiency in the caput epididymidis had no effect on sperm motility. Moreover, fertility tests showed that Wls cKO male mice had normal fertility. CONCLUSION These results indicate that the disruption of WLS in principal cells of the caput epididymidis inhibits WNT protein secretion but has no effect on sperm motility and male fertility, suggesting that WNT signaling in the caput epididymidis may be dispensable for epididymal sperm maturation in mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Mei Cheng
- The State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ji-Xin Tang
- The State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jian Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yu-Qian Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiu-Xia Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Su-Ren Chen
- The State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yi-Xun Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Gautam M, Bhattacharya I, Rai U, Majumdar SS. Hormone induced differential transcriptome analysis of Sertoli cells during postnatal maturation of rat testes. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0191201. [PMID: 29342173 PMCID: PMC5771609 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0191201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells (Sc) are unique somatic cells of testis that are the target of both FSH and testosterone (T) and regulate spermatogenesis. Although Sc of neonatal rat testes are exposed to high levels of FSH and T, robust differentiation of spermatogonial cells becomes conspicuous only after 11-days of postnatal age. We have demonstrated earlier that a developmental switch in terms of hormonal responsiveness occurs in rat Sc at around 12 days of postnatal age during the rapid transition of spermatogonia A to B. Therefore, such “functional maturation” of Sc, during pubertal development becomes prerequisite for the onset of spermatogenesis. However, a conspicuous difference in robust hormone (both T and FSH) induced gene expression during the different phases of Sc maturation restricts our understanding about molecular events necessary for the spermatogenic onset and maintenance. Here, using microarray technology, we for the first time have compared the differential transcriptional profile of Sc isolated and cultured from immature (5 days old), maturing (12 days old) and mature (60 days old) rat testes. Our data revealed that immature Sc express genes involved in cellular growth, metabolism, chemokines, cell division, MAPK and Wnt pathways, while mature Sc are more specialized expressing genes involved in glucose metabolism, phagocytosis, insulin signaling and cytoskeleton structuring. Taken together, this differential transcriptome data provide an important resource to reveal the molecular network of Sc maturation which is necessary to govern male germ cell differentiation, hence, will improve our current understanding of the etiology of some forms of idiopathic male infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mukesh Gautam
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | | | - Umesh Rai
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Subeer S. Majumdar
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Underlying Mechanisms that Restore Spermatogenesis on Transplanting Healthy Niche Cells in Busulphan Treated Mouse Testis. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2017; 12:682-697. [PMID: 27663915 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-016-9685-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) exist among spermatogonial stem cells and survive chemotherapy in both mice and human testes because of their relatively quiescent nature. Our earlier study revealed that inter-tubular transplantation of niche (Sertoli or bone marrow derived mesenchymal) cells can restore spermatogenesis from endogenous surviving VSELs. Present study was undertaken to delineate the effect of busulphan on testicular stem/germ/Sertoli cells and to comprehend the underlying mechanisms of how transplanted niche cells restore spermatogenesis. Ploidy analysis showed an increase in diploid cells on D7 and VSELs (2-6 μm; LIN-/CD45-/SCA-1+) were detected at all time-points studied and were maximum on D15 after busulphan treatment. They were visualized in cell smears, expressed nuclear NANOG and SOX2 and BrdU uptake on D15 suggested they were proliferating in response to stress induced by busulphan. Verapamil-sensitive side population detected comprised SCA-1 positive stem cells (5 ± 0.02 % in normal and 8.6 ± 2.02 % in chemoablated testis). Adverse effects of busulphan on Sertoli cells by transcriptome analysis included altered expression of Gdnf, Scf, Fgf, Bmp4, androgen binding protein, components of blood-testis-barrier and also stem cells related signaling pathways including Wnt. GFP positive transplanted cells aligned themselves as 'neo-tubules' and were visualized adjacent to 'native' germ cells depleted tubules. 'Neo-tubules' provide paracrine support to endogenous VSELs to undergo spermatogenesis. Quantitative analysis was done to track proliferation (PCNA) and differentiation (MVH) of stem cells by immuno-localization studies at different time intervals. Results provide an alternative strategy to restore spermatogenesis in cancer survivors from endogenous stem cells which needs to be further researched.
Collapse
|
30
|
Navid S, Abbasi M, Hoshino Y. The effects of melatonin on colonization of neonate spermatogonial mouse stem cells in a three-dimensional soft agar culture system. Stem Cell Res Ther 2017; 8:233. [PMID: 29041987 PMCID: PMC5646105 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-017-0687-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melatonin is a pleiotropic hormone with powerful antioxidant activity both in vivo and in vitro. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of melatonin on the proliferation efficiency of neonatal mouse spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) using a three-dimensional soft agar culture system (SACS) which has the capacity to induce development of SSCs similar to in vivo conditions. METHODS SSCs were isolated from testes of neonate mice and their purities were assessed by flow cytometry using PLZF antibody. Isolated testicular cells were cultured in the upper layer of the SACS in αMEM medium in the absence or presence of melatonin extract for 4 weeks. RESULTS The identity of colonies was confirmed by alkaline phosphatase staining and immunocytochemistry using PLZF and α6 integrin antibodies. The number and diameter of colonies of SSCs in the upper layer were evaluated at days 14 and 28 of culture. The number and diameter of colonies of SSCs were significantly higher in the melatonin group compared with the control group. The levels of expression of ID-4 and Plzf, unlike c-kit, were significantly higher in the melatonin group than in the control group. CONCLUSIONS Results of the present study show that supplementation of the culture medium (SACS) with 100 μM melatonin significantly decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in the treated group compared with the control group, and increased SSC proliferation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shadan Navid
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Abbasi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yumi Hoshino
- Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Kagamiyama 1-4-4, Hiroshima 739-8528 Japan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Dietrich JE, Adeyemi O, Hakim J, Santos X, Bercaw-Pratt JL, Bournat JC, Chen CH, Jorgez CJ. Paratubal Cyst Size Correlates With Obesity and Dysregulation of the Wnt Signaling Pathway. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2017; 30:571-577. [PMID: 28456695 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2017.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Revised: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE Paratubal cysts (PTCs) occur in 7%-10% of women, regardless of age. Although common, PTCs often are found incidentally because of the potential for these cysts to be asymptomatic. The specific aims of the study were to determine if PTC number and size correlated with signs of hyperandrogenism and obesity, as well as to investigate the molecular profiles of these PTCs in samples derived from female adolescents. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, INTERVENTIONS, AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: A prospective cohort study was performed in a single children's hospital. Girls 18 years of age or younger who underwent surgery for PTC suspected on the basis of the presence of a persistent adnexal cyst on imaging or a concern for adnexal torsion involving a cyst were consented to participate in the study. RESULTS Nineteen patients met enrollment criteria with a mean age at menarche of 11.2 ± 1.3 years. Most of the patients (84%; n = 16/19) had adnexal torsion at the time of diagnosis of PTC. Irregular menses and hirsutism was found in 52.6% (n = 10/19) of the patients, among whom 36.8% (n = 7/19) were obese. The mean PTC size was 10.4 ± 4.3 cm with 57.9% (n = 11/19) of the cohort having more than 1 PTC. When patients were compared on the basis of their body mass index, the size of PTCs was significantly larger in the overweight/obese group. The wingless-type (WNT) signaling members catenin beta 1 (CTNBB1) and wingless-type MMTV integration site family, member 7A (WNT7A) were upregulated in 86% (n = 12/14) and 79% (n = 11/14) of the patients, respectively. WNT7A was significantly upregulated in girls with 1 cyst and low body mass index. CONCLUSION A correlation exists between obesity, cyst size, and hyperandrogenism. Activation of the WNT/CTNBB1 pathway via WNT7A might play a role in PTC development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E Dietrich
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Oluyemisi Adeyemi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Julie Hakim
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Xiomara Santos
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Jennifer L Bercaw-Pratt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Juan C Bournat
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Ching H Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Carolina J Jorgez
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Navid S, Rastegar T, Baazm M, Alizadeh R, Talebi A, Gholami K, Khosravi-Farsani S, Koruji M, Abbasi M. In vitroeffects of melatonin on colonization of neonate mouse spermatogonial stem cells. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2017; 63:370-381. [DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2017.1358774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shadan Navid
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tayebeh Rastegar
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Baazm
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Rafieh Alizadeh
- ENT and Head & Neck Research Center and Department, Hazrat Rasoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Talebi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Keykavos Gholami
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Khosravi-Farsani
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center & Department of Anatomical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Abbasi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Weng B, Ran M, Chen B, He C, Dong L, Peng F. Genome-wide analysis of long non-coding RNAs and their role in postnatal porcine testis development. Genomics 2017; 109:446-456. [PMID: 28746831 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 07/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
A comprehensive and systematic understanding of the roles of lncRNAs in the postnatal development of the pig testis has still not been achieved. In the present study, we obtained more than one billion clean reads and identified 15,528 lncRNA transcripts; these transcripts included 5032 known and 10,496 novel porcine lncRNA transcripts and corresponded to 10,041 lncRNA genes. Pairwise comparisons identified 449 known and 324 novel lncRNAs that showed differential expression patterns. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses revealed that the targeted genes were involved in metabolic pathways regulating testis development and spermatogenesis, such as the TGF-beta pathway, the PI3K-Akt pathway, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and the AMPK pathway. Using this information, we predicted some lncRNAs and coding gene pairs were predicted that may function in testis development and spermatogenesis; these are listed in detail. This study has provided the most comprehensive catalog to date of lncRNAs in the postnatal pig testis and will aid our understanding of their functional roles in testis development and spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Weng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agriculture University, Hunan, Changsha 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Maoliang Ran
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agriculture University, Hunan, Changsha 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Bin Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agriculture University, Hunan, Changsha 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Changsha 410128, China.
| | - Changqing He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agriculture University, Hunan, Changsha 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Lianhua Dong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agriculture University, Hunan, Changsha 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Fuzhi Peng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agriculture University, Hunan, Changsha 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Changsha 410128, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Crespo D, Assis LHC, Furmanek T, Bogerd J, Schulz RW. Expression profiling identifies Sertoli and Leydig cell genes as Fsh targets in adult zebrafish testis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 437:237-251. [PMID: 27566230 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells are quiescent, undergo self-renewal or differentiating divisions, thereby forming the cellular basis of spermatogenesis. This cellular development is orchestrated by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), through the production of Sertoli cell-derived factors, and by Leydig cell-released androgens. Here, we investigate the transcriptional events induced by Fsh in a steroid-independent manner on the restart of zebrafish (Danio rerio) spermatogenesis ex vivo, using testis from adult males where type A spermatogonia were enriched by estrogen treatment in vivo. Under these conditions, RNA sequencing preferentially detected differentially expressed genes in somatic/Sertoli cells. Fsh-stimulated spermatogonial proliferation was accompanied by modulating several signaling systems (i.e. Tgf-β, Hedgehog, Wnt and Notch pathways). In silico protein-protein interaction analysis indicated a role for Hedgehog family members potentially integrating signals from different pathways during fish spermatogenesis. Moreover, Fsh had a marked impact on metabolic genes, such as lactate and fatty acid metabolism, or on Sertoli cell barrier components. Fish Leydig cells express the Fsh receptor and one of the most robust Fsh-responsive genes was insulin-like 3 (insl3), a Leydig cell-derived growth factor. Follow-up work showed that recombinant zebrafish Insl3 mediated pro-differentiation effects of Fsh on spermatogonia in an androgen-independent manner. Our experimental approach allowed focusing on testicular somatic genes in zebrafish and showed that the activity of signaling systems known to be relevant in stem cells was modulated by Fsh, providing promising leads for future work, as exemplified by the studies on Insl3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Crespo
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Luiz H C Assis
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tomasz Furmanek
- Research Group Reproduction and Developmental Biology, Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jan Bogerd
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rüdiger W Schulz
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Research Group Reproduction and Developmental Biology, Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Boyer A, Girard M, Thimmanahalli DS, Levasseur A, Céleste C, Paquet M, Duggavathi R, Boerboom D. mTOR Regulates Gap Junction Alpha-1 Protein Trafficking in Sertoli Cells and Is Required for the Maintenance of Spermatogenesis in Mice. Biol Reprod 2016; 95:13. [PMID: 27281705 PMCID: PMC5029431 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.138016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Revised: 02/14/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (Mtor) gene encodes a serine/threonine kinase that acts as a master regulator of processes as diverse as cell growth, protein synthesis, cytoskeleton reorganization, and cell survival. In the testis, physiological roles for Mtor have been proposed in perinatal Sertoli cell proliferation and blood-testis barrier (BTB) remodeling during spermatogenesis, but no in vivo studies of Mtor function have been reported. Here, we used a conditional knockout approach to target Mtor in Sertoli cells. The resulting Mtor(flox/flox); Amhr2(cre/+) mice were characterized by progressive, adult-onset testicular atrophy associated with disorganization of the seminiferous epithelium, loss of Sertoli cell polarity, increased germ cell apoptosis, premature release of germ cells, decreased epididymal sperm counts, increased sperm abnormalities, and infertility. Histopathologic analysis and quantification of the expression of stage-specific markers showed a specific loss of pachytene spermatocytes and spermatids. Although the BTB and the ectoplasmic specializations did not appear to be altered in Mtor(flox/flox);Amhr2(cre/+) mice, a dramatic redistribution of gap junction alpha-1 (GJA1) was detected in their Sertoli cells. Phosphorylation of GJA1 at Ser373, which is associated with its internalization, was increased in the testes of Mtor(flox/flox); Amhr2(cre/+) mice, as was the expression and phosphorylation of AKT, which phosphorylates GJA1 at this site. Together, these results indicate that Mtor expression in Sertoli cells is required for the maintenance of spermatogenesis and the progression of germ cell development through the pachytene spermatocyte stage. One mechanism of mTOR action may be to regulate gap junction dynamics by inhibiting AKT, thereby decreasing GJA1 phosphorylation and internalization. mTOR regulates gap junction alpha-1 protein distribution in Sertoli cells and is necessary for progression through the pachytene spermatocyte stage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Boyer
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Meggie Girard
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Adrien Levasseur
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Christophe Céleste
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Marilène Paquet
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Rajesha Duggavathi
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Québec, Canada
| | - Derek Boerboom
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Does murine spermatogenesis require WNT signalling? A lesson from Gpr177 conditional knockout mouse models. Cell Death Dis 2016; 7:e2281. [PMID: 27362799 PMCID: PMC5108341 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2016.191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Revised: 05/17/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Wingless-related MMTV integration site (WNT) proteins and several other components of the WNT signalling pathway are expressed in the murine testes. However, mice mutant for WNT signalling effector β-catenin using different Cre drivers have phenotypes that are inconsistent with each other. The complexity and overlapping expression of WNT signalling cascades have prevented researchers from dissecting their function in spermatogenesis. Depletion of the Gpr177 gene (the mouse orthologue of Drosophila Wntless), which is required for the secretion of various WNTs, makes it possible to genetically dissect the overall effect of WNTs in testis development. In this study, the Gpr177 gene was conditionally depleted in germ cells (Gpr177flox/flox, Mvh-Cre; Gpr177flox/flox, Stra8-Cre) and Sertoli cells (Gpr177flox/flox, Amh-Cre). No obvious defects in fertility and spermatogenesis were observed in these three Gpr177 conditional knockout (cKO) mice at 8 weeks. However, late-onset testicular atrophy and fertility decline in two germ cell-specific Gpr177 deletion mice were noted at 8 months. In contrast, we did not observe any abnormalities of spermatogenesis and fertility, even in 8-month-old Gpr177flox/flox, Amh-Cre mice. Elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was detected in Gpr177 cKO germ cells and Sertoli cells and exhibited an age-dependent manner. However, significant increase in the activity of Caspase 3 was only observed in germ cells from 8-month-old germ cell-specific Gpr177 knockout mice. In conclusion, GPR177 in Sertoli cells had no apparent influence on spermatogenesis, whereas loss of GPR177 in germ cells disrupted spermatogenesis in an age-dependent manner via elevating ROS levels and triggering germ cell apoptosis.
Collapse
|
37
|
Mahaldashtian M, Naghdi M, Ghorbanian MT, Makoolati Z, Movahedin M, Mohamadi SM. In vitro effects of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) pollen on colonization of neonate mouse spermatogonial stem cells. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2016; 186:362-368. [PMID: 27084457 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2015] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) pollen (DPP) is widely used as a folk remedy for male infertility treatment, and has well known medicinal effects. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to determine the in vitro effects of DPP on the efficiency of neonate mouse spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) proliferation. MATERIAL AND METHODS Sertoli and SSCs were isolated from 6 to 10-days-old mouse testes, and their identity was confirmed using immunocytochemistry against cytokeratin for sertoli cells and PLZF, Oct-4 and CDH-1 for SSCs. Isolated testicular cells were cultured in the absence or presence of 0.06, 0.25 and 0.62mg/ml concentrations of DPP aqueous extract for 2 weeks. The number and diameter of SSC colonies were assessed during third, 7th, 9th and 14th day of culture, and the expression of the Mvh, GFRα-1 and Oct-4 was evaluated using quantitative PCR at the end of the culture period. The significance of the data was analyzed using ANOVA and paired samples t-test and Tukey and Bonferroni test as post hoc tests at the level of p≤0.05. RESULTS Pattern assay of colony formation showed that SSCs numbers increased in the present of 0.62mg/ml concentration of DPP extract with higher slop relative to other groups (P <0.05). Colony diameters had no significant difference between groups in 3th, 7th, 9th and 14th days after culture. The Mvh and Oct-4 genes expression had no significant difference between groups, while GFRα1 expression was increased significantly in cells treated with 0.06mg/ml concentration relative to other groups (P<0.05). CONCLUSION It seems that co-culture of SSCs with sertoli sells in the presence of low doses of DPP can increase SSCs proliferation and keep their stemness state, while higher concentrations can differentiate the treated cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Mahaldashtian
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Damghan University, Semnan, Iran.
| | - Majid Naghdi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran.
| | - Mohamad Taghi Ghorbanian
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Damghan University, Semnan, Iran.
| | - Zohreh Makoolati
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran.
| | - Mansoureh Movahedin
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Momeneh Mohamadi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Koch S, Acebron SP, Herbst J, Hatiboglu G, Niehrs C. Post-transcriptional Wnt Signaling Governs Epididymal Sperm Maturation. Cell 2015; 163:1225-1236. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2015.10.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
|
39
|
Wnt signaling in testis development: Unnecessary or essential? Gene 2015; 565:155-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2015.04.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Revised: 03/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
40
|
Naillat F, Yan W, Karjalainen R, Liakhovitskaia A, Samoylenko A, Xu Q, Sun Z, Shen B, Medvinsky A, Quaggin S, Vainio SJ. Identification of the genes regulated by Wnt-4, a critical signal for commitment of the ovary. Exp Cell Res 2015; 332:163-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2015.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Revised: 12/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
41
|
Abstract
Stem cells are endowed with the potential for self-renewal and multipotency. Pluripotent embryonic stem cells have an early role in the formation of the three germ layers (ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm), whereas adult tissue stem cells and progenitor cells are critical mediators of organ homeostasis. The adrenal cortex is an exceptionally dynamic endocrine organ that is homeostatically maintained by paracrine and endocrine signals throughout postnatal life. In the past decade, much has been learned about the stem and progenitor cells of the adrenal cortex and the multiple roles that these cell populations have in normal development and homeostasis of the adrenal gland and in adrenal diseases. In this Review, we discuss the evidence for the presence of adrenocortical stem cells, as well as the various signalling molecules and transcriptional networks that are critical for the embryological establishment and postnatal maintenance of this vital population of cells. The implications of these pathways and cells in the pathophysiology of disease are also addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth M Walczak
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Gary D Hammer
- Center for Organogenesis, Alfred Taubman Biomedical Sciences Research Building, Room 1528, 109 Zina Pitcher Place, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Jorgez CJ, Wilken N, Addai JB, Newberg J, Vangapandu HV, Pastuszak AW, Mukherjee S, Rosenfeld JA, Lipshultz LI, Lamb DJ. Genomic and genetic variation in E2F transcription factor-1 in men with nonobstructive azoospermia. Fertil Steril 2015; 103:44-52.e1. [PMID: 25439843 PMCID: PMC4282601 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Revised: 09/16/2014] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify gene dosage changes associated with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) using array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH). DESIGN Prospective study. SETTING Medical school. PATIENT(S) One hundred ten men with NOA and 78 fertile controls. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The study has four distinct analytic components: aCGH, a molecular karyotype that detects copy number variations (CNVs); Taqman CNV assays to validate CNVs; mutation identification by Sanger sequencing; and histological analyses of testicular tissues. RESULT(S) A microduplication at 20q11.22 encompassing E2F transcription factor-1 (E2F1) was identified in one of eight men with NOA analyzed using aCGH. CNVs were confirmed and in an additional 102 men with NOA screened using Taqman CNV assays, for a total of 110 NOA men analyzed for CNVs in E2F1. Eight of 110 (7.3%) NOA men had microduplications or microdeletions of E2F1 that were absent in fertile controls. CONCLUSION(S) E2F1 microduplications or microdeletions are present in men with NOA (7.3%). Duplications or deletions of E2F1 occur very rarely in the general population (0.011%), but E2F1 gene dosage changes, previously reported only in cancers, are present in a subset of NOA men. These results recapitulate the infertility phenotype seen in mice lacking or overexpressing E2f1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina J. Jorgez
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Nathan Wilken
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Josephine B. Addai
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Justin Newberg
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Hima V. Vangapandu
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Alexander W. Pastuszak
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | | | - Jill A. Rosenfeld
- Signature Genomic Laboratories, PerkinElmer, Inc., Spokane, WA, 99207
| | - Larry I. Lipshultz
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Dolores J. Lamb
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Bartel C, Meyer F, Schäfer-Somi S, Walter I. Expression of Steroid Hormone Receptors in the Genital Structures of a True Hermaphrodite Pug Dog. Reprod Domest Anim 2014; 50:164-7. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 10/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Bartel
- Department of Pathobiology; University of Veterinary Medicine; Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology; Vienna Austria
| | - F Meyer
- Department of Pathobiology; University of Veterinary Medicine; Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology; Vienna Austria
| | - S Schäfer-Somi
- Insemination and embryo transfer station; Clinic for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology; University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna; Vienna Austria
| | - I Walter
- Department of Pathobiology; University of Veterinary Medicine; Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology; Vienna Austria
- VetCore Facility for Research; University of Veterinary Medicine; Vienna Austria
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Lombardi APG, Royer C, Pisolato R, Cavalcanti FN, Lucas TFG, Lazari MFM, Porto CS. Physiopathological aspects of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in the male reproductive system. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 3:e23181. [PMID: 23687614 PMCID: PMC3644045 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.23181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway controls several biological processes throughout development and adult life. Dysregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling underlies a wide range of pathologies in animals and humans, including cancer in different tissues. In this review, we provide an update of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and the possible roles of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling in the biology of testis, epididymis and prostate. Data from our laboratory suggest the involvement of 17β-estradiol and estrogen receptors (ERs) on the regulation of β-catenin expression in rat Sertoli cells. We also provide emerging evidences of the involvement of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in testis and prostate cancer. Our understanding of the role of Wnt/β-Catenin signaling in male reproductive tissues is still evolving, and several questions are open to be addressed in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paola G Lombardi
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology; Department of Pharmacology; Escola Paulista de Medicina; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Xu Y, Lei H, Guan R, Gao Z, Li H, Wang L, Song W, Gao B, Xin Z. Studies on the mechanism of testicular dysfunction in the early stage of a streptozotocin induced diabetic rat model. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2014; 450:87-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2014.05.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2014] [Accepted: 05/17/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
46
|
Determination of the Granulosa Cell-Specific Endothelin Receptor A Deletion on Ovarian Function. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL REPRODUCTION AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.12750/jet.2014.29.2.195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
|
47
|
Das DS, Wadhwa N, Kunj N, Sarda K, Pradhan BS, Majumdar SS. Dickkopf homolog 3 (DKK3) plays a crucial role upstream of WNT/β-CATENIN signaling for Sertoli cell mediated regulation of spermatogenesis. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63603. [PMID: 23667645 PMCID: PMC3647036 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 04/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular Sertoli cells (Sc) are main somatic component of seminiferous tubules that govern the differentiation of germ cells (Gc) and provide them physical support. Sc are the target of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone (T) which are known to regulate spermatogenesis. FSH and T levels in human and sub-human male primates remain high during infancy (4–6 months post birth), similar to those during puberty. Subsequently, juvenile phase is marked with low levels of these hormones. In spite of prolonged hormonal exposure, spermatogenesis is not discerned during infancy unlike that during puberty. Situation during infancy is similar to certain idiopathic male infertility, where prolonged hormone supplementation fails to initiate spermatogenesis. In our quest to determine non hormonal causes of idiopathic infertility which may reside within the Sc, we investigated the association between spermatogenesis and Sc specific gene(s) expressed differentially during puberty and infancy. Although products of several genes may be necessary for quantitatively normal spermatogenesis, one needs to investigate their roles one by one. Differential display and real time PCR analysis revealed higher expression of a known tumor suppressor, Dickkopf homolog 3 (DKK3), by pubertal monkey Sc as compared to infant Sc. To evaluate role of DKK3 in spermatogenesis, we generated DKK3 knock down mice (DKDM) using shRNA construct targeted to DKK3. In testis of adult DKDM, expression of DKK3 mRNA and protein were significantly (p<0.05) low and was associated with elevated WNT-4/β-CATENIN activity. Elevated β-CATENIN activity is known to restrict Sc maturation. Abundant expression of infant Sc marker, Mullerian inhibiting substance (MIS), in the testes of adult DKDM confirmed lack of Sc maturation in DKDM. Gc differentiation and fertility was severely compromised in DKDM. This is the first report of role of DKK3 in the testis and DKK3 mediated regulation of spermatogenesis via WNT-4/β-CATENIN modulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Sharma Das
- Division of Cellular Endocrinology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Neerja Wadhwa
- Division of Embryo Biotechnology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Neetu Kunj
- Division of Embryo Biotechnology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Kanchan Sarda
- Division of Cellular Endocrinology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Bhola Shankar Pradhan
- Division of Cellular Endocrinology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Subeer S. Majumdar
- Division of Cellular Endocrinology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
- Division of Embryo Biotechnology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Doyle TJ, Bowman JL, Windell VL, McLean DJ, Kim KH. Transgenerational effects of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate on testicular germ cell associations and spermatogonial stem cells in mice. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:112. [PMID: 23536373 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.106104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence has linked human phthalate exposure to abnormal reproductive and hormonal effects. Phthalates are plasticizers that confer flexibility and transparency to plastics, but they readily contaminate the body and the environment. In this study, timed pregnant CD1 outbred mice were treated with di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) from Embryonic Day 7 (E7) to E14. The subsequent generation (F1) offspring were then bred to produce the F2, F3, and F4 offspring, without any further DEHP treatment. This exposure scheme disrupted testicular germ cell association and decreased sperm count and motility in F1 to F4 offspring. By spermatogonial transplantation techniques, the exposure scheme also disrupted spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) function of F3 offspring. The W/W(V) recipient testes transplanted with F3 offspring germ cells from the DEHP-treated group had a dramatically lower percentage of donor germ cell-derived spermatogenic recovery in seminiferous tubules when compared to the recipient testes transplanted with CD1 control germ cells. Further characterization showed that the major block of donor germ cell-derived spermatogenesis was before the appearance of undifferentiated spermatogonia. Interestingly, the testes transplanted with the F3 offspring germ cells from the DEHP-treated group, when regenerated, replicated testis morphology similar to that observed in the testes from the F1 to F3 offspring of the DEHP-treated group, suggesting that the germ cell disorganization phenotype originates from the stem cells of F3 offspring. In conclusion, embryonic exposure to DEHP was found to disrupt testicular germ cell organization and SSC function in a transgenerational manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Doyle
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Das PJ, McCarthy F, Vishnoi M, Paria N, Gresham C, Li G, Kachroo P, Sudderth AK, Teague S, Love CC, Varner DD, Chowdhary BP, Raudsepp T. Stallion sperm transcriptome comprises functionally coherent coding and regulatory RNAs as revealed by microarray analysis and RNA-seq. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56535. [PMID: 23409192 PMCID: PMC3569414 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Mature mammalian sperm contain a complex population of RNAs some of which might regulate spermatogenesis while others probably play a role in fertilization and early development. Due to this limited knowledge, the biological functions of sperm RNAs remain enigmatic. Here we report the first characterization of the global transcriptome of the sperm of fertile stallions. The findings improved understanding of the biological significance of sperm RNAs which in turn will allow the discovery of sperm-based biomarkers for stallion fertility. The stallion sperm transcriptome was interrogated by analyzing sperm and testes RNA on a 21,000-element equine whole-genome oligoarray and by RNA-seq. Microarray analysis revealed 6,761 transcripts in the sperm, of which 165 were sperm-enriched, and 155 were differentially expressed between the sperm and testes. Next, 70 million raw reads were generated by RNA-seq of which 50% could be aligned with the horse reference genome. A total of 19,257 sequence tags were mapped to all horse chromosomes and the mitochondrial genome. The highest density of mapped transcripts was in gene-rich ECA11, 12 and 13, and the lowest in gene-poor ECA9 and X; 7 gene transcripts originated from ECAY. Structural annotation aligned sperm transcripts with 4,504 known horse and/or human genes, rRNAs and 82 miRNAs, whereas 13,354 sequence tags remained anonymous. The data were aligned with selected equine gene models to identify additional exons and splice variants. Gene Ontology annotations showed that sperm transcripts were associated with molecular processes (chemoattractant-activated signal transduction, ion transport) and cellular components (membranes and vesicles) related to known sperm functions at fertilization, while some messenger and micro RNAs might be critical for early development. The findings suggest that the rich repertoire of coding and non-coding RNAs in stallion sperm is not a random remnant from spermatogenesis in testes but a selectively retained and functionally coherent collection of RNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pranab J Das
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Heim CN, Fanslow DA, Dann CT. Development of quantitative microscopy-based assays for evaluating dynamics of living cultures of mouse spermatogonial stem/progenitor cells. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:90. [PMID: 22933516 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.101717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) self-renewal and differentiation are required for continuous production of spermatozoa and long-term fertility. Studying SSCs in vivo remains challenging because SSCs are rare cells and definitive molecular markers for their identification are lacking. The development of a method for propagating SSCs in vitro greatly facilitated analysis of SSCs. The cultured cells grow as clusters of a dynamic mixture of "true" stem cells and differentiating progenitor cells. Cells in the stem/progenitor culture system share many properties with spermatogonia in vivo; however, to fully exploit it as a model for spermatogonial development, new assays are needed that account for the dynamic heterogeneity inherent in the culture system. Here, assays were developed for quantifying dynamics of cultures of stem/progenitor cells that expressed histone-green fluorescent protein (GFP). First, we built on published results showing that cluster formation in vitro reliably predicts the relative number of SSCs. The GFP-based in vitro cluster assay allows quantification of SSCs with significantly fewer resources than a transplantation assay. Second, we compared the dynamics of differentiation in two experimental paradigms by imaging over a 17-day time frame. Finally, we performed short-term live imaging and observed cell migration, coordinated cell proliferation, and cell death resembling that of spermatogonia in the testes. The methods that we present provide a foundation for the use of fluorescent reporters in future microscopy-based high-throughput screens by using living spermatogonial stem/progenitor cultures applicable to toxicology, contraceptive discovery, and identification of regulators of self-renewal and differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Crystal N Heim
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|