1
|
Nadri P, Nadri T, Gholami D, Zahmatkesh A, Hosseini Ghaffari M, Savvulidi Vargova K, Georgijevic Savvulidi F, LaMarre J. Role of miRNAs in assisted reproductive technology. Gene 2024; 927:148703. [PMID: 38885817 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Cellular proteins and the mRNAs that encode them are key factors in oocyte and sperm development, and the mechanisms that regulate their translation and degradation play an important role during early embryogenesis. There is abundant evidence that expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) is crucial for embryo development and are highly involved in regulating translation during oocyte and early embryo development. MiRNAs are a group of short (18-24 nucleotides) non-coding RNA molecules that regulate post-transcriptional gene silencing. The miRNAs are secreted outside the cell by embryos during preimplantation embryo development. Understanding regulatory mechanisms involving miRNAs during gametogenesis and embryogenesis will provide insights into molecular pathways active during gamete formation and early embryo development. This review summarizes recent findings regarding multiple roles of miRNAs in molecular signaling, plus their transport during gametogenesis and embryo preimplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Nadri
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Touba Nadri
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran; Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Tehran University, Karaj, Iran.
| | - Dariush Gholami
- Department of Microbial Biotechniligy, Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
| | - Azadeh Zahmatkesh
- Department of Anaerobic Vaccine Research and Production, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute (RVSRI), Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | | | - Karin Savvulidi Vargova
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Filipp Georgijevic Savvulidi
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University, Prague, Kamýcká, Czech Republic
| | - Jonathan LaMarre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Benedetti C, Pavani KC, Gansemans Y, Azari-Dolatabad N, Pascottini OB, Peelman L, Six R, Fan Y, Guan X, Deserranno K, Fernández-Montoro A, Hamacher J, Van Nieuwerburgh F, Fair T, Hendrix A, Smits K, Van Soom A. From follicle to blastocyst: microRNA-34c from follicular fluid-derived extracellular vesicles modulates blastocyst quality. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2024; 15:104. [PMID: 39097731 PMCID: PMC11298084 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-024-01059-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Within the follicular fluid, extracellular vesicles (EVs) guide oocyte growth through their cargo microRNAs (miRNAs). Here, we investigated the role of EVs and their cargo miRNAs by linking the miRNAs found in EVs, derived from the fluid of an individual follicle, to the ability of its oocyte to become a blastocyst (competent) or not (non-competent). METHODS Bovine antral follicles were dissected, categorized as small (2-4 mm) or large (5-8 mm) and the corresponding oocytes were subjected to individual maturation, fertilization and embryo culture to the blastocyst stage. Follicular fluid was pooled in 4 groups (4 replicates) based on follicle size and competence of the corresponding oocyte to produce a blastocyst. Follicular fluid-derived EVs were isolated, characterized, and subjected to miRNA-sequencing (Illumina Miseq) to assess differential expression (DE) in the 4 groups. Functional validation of the effect of miR-34c on embryo development was performed by supplementation of mimics and inhibitors during in vitro maturation (IVM). RESULTS We identified 16 DE miRNAs linked to oocyte competence when follicular size was not considered. Within the large and small follicles, 46 DE miRNAs were driving blastocyst formation in each group. Comparison of EVs from competent small and large follicles revealed 90 DE miRNAs. Cell regulation, cell differentiation, cell cycle, and metabolic process regulation were the most enriched pathways targeted by the DE miRNAs from competent oocytes. We identified bta-miR-34c as the most abundant in follicular fluid containing competent oocytes. Supplementation of miR-34c mimic and inhibitor during IVM did not affect embryo development. However, blastocyst quality, as evidenced by higher cell numbers, was significantly improved following oocyte IVM in the presence of miR-34c mimics, while miR-34c inhibitors resulted in the opposite effect. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the regulatory effect of miRNAs from follicular fluid-derived EVs on oocyte competence acquisition, providing a further basis for understanding the significance of miRNAs in oocyte maturation and embryonic development. Up-regulation of miR-34c in EVs from follicular fluid containing competent oocytes and the positive impact of miR-34c mimics added during IVM on the resulting blastocysts indicate its pivotal role in oocyte competence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Benedetti
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Krishna Chaitanya Pavani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Yannick Gansemans
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Osvaldo Bogado Pascottini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Luc Peelman
- Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rani Six
- Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Yuan Fan
- Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Xuefeng Guan
- Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Deserranno
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Andrea Fernández-Montoro
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Joachim Hamacher
- Institute of Crop Science and Resource Conservation, Plant Pathology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University of Bonn, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Filip Van Nieuwerburgh
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - An Hendrix
- Laboratory of Experimental Cancer Research, Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Smits
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Li M, Zhao Q, Wang S, Song Y, Zhai L, Zhao J. Differential Impairment Mechanism of Sperm Production via Induction of miR-34c-Activated Apoptosis and Spermatogenesis Pathway in Diet-Induced Obesity and Resistant Mice and GC-1 Spg Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7451. [PMID: 39000558 PMCID: PMC11242685 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Male reproductive dysfunction is a clinical disease, with a large number of cases being idiopathic. Reproductive disorders have been found in obese (diet-induced obesity and diet-induced obesity-resistant) mice, but the mechanism behind the male reproductive dysfunction between them may be different. The purpose of this study was to explore the possible role and mechanism of miR-34c on sperm production in high-fat-diet-induced obesity-resistant (DIO-R) mice and GC-1 spg cells, which may differ from those in high-fat-diet-induced obesity (DIO) mice. In vivo and in vitro experiments were performed. C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat diet for 10 weeks to establish the DIO and DIO-R mouse model. GC-1 spg cells were used to verify the mechanism of miR-34c on sperm production. During in vivo experiments, sperm production damage was found in both DIO and DIO-R male mice. Compared to the control mice, significantly decreased levels of testosterone, LH, activities of acrosome enzyme (ACE), HAse, and activating transcription factor 1 (ATF1) were found in both DIO and DIO-R male mice (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the ratio of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2)/bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) in the DIO group was significantly decreased, and the expression level of cleaved caspase-3 was significantly increased (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the Bcl-2 protein expression level in the testes of the DIO-R group significantly decreased (p < 0.05). However, the Bax expression level increased. Thus, the Bcl-2/Bax ratio significantly decreased (p < 0.01); however, the factor-related apoptosis (Fas), Fas ligand (FasLG), cleaved caspase-8, caspase-8, cleaved caspase-3, and caspase-3 protein expression levels significantly increased (p < 0.05). Compared with the DIO group, in DIO-R mice, the activities of ACE, ATF1, Bcl-2, and Bcl-2/Bax's spermatogenesis protein expression decreased, while the apoptosis-promoting protein expression significantly increased (p < 0.05). During the in vitro experiment, the late and early apoptotic ratio in the miR-34c over-expression group increased. MiR-34c over-expression enhanced the expression of apoptosis-related proteins Fas/FasLG and Bax/Bcl-2 while inhibiting the expression of ATF1 and the sperm-associated protein in GC-1 spg cells. DIO and DIO-R could harm sperm production. DIO-R could impair sperm production by inducing the miR-34c-activated apoptosis and spermatogenesis pathway, which may be different from that of DIO.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mujiao Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, No. 103, Wenhua Rd., Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China; (M.L.); (Q.Z.); (S.W.); (Y.S.)
| | - Qing Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, No. 103, Wenhua Rd., Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China; (M.L.); (Q.Z.); (S.W.); (Y.S.)
| | - Siyu Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, No. 103, Wenhua Rd., Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China; (M.L.); (Q.Z.); (S.W.); (Y.S.)
| | - Yangyang Song
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, No. 103, Wenhua Rd., Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China; (M.L.); (Q.Z.); (S.W.); (Y.S.)
| | - Lingling Zhai
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China;
| | - Jian Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, No. 103, Wenhua Rd., Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China; (M.L.); (Q.Z.); (S.W.); (Y.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Han Y, Shan TD, Huang HT, Song MQ, Chen L, Li Q. Activation of lncRNA DANCR by H3K27 acetylation regulates proliferation of colorectal cancer cells. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:249. [PMID: 38940959 PMCID: PMC11213841 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01124-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The long noncoding DANCR functions as a tumor oncogene in many cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the molecular mechanism of DANCR in CRC has not been explored. This study probed the function and potential mechanism by which DANCR contributes to the progression of CRC. The obtained data indicated that DANCR is overexpressed in CRC tissues and cell lines. Knockdown of DANCR hindered CRC cell proliferation, which was mediated by cyclin D1 and CDK4. Bioinformatic analysis, luciferase reporter assays and subcellular fractionation verified that DANCR directly binds to miR-508-5p. Moreover, DANCR acts as a miR-508-5p ceRNA to regulate expression of ATF1. In addition, upregulation of DANCR is attributed to H3K27 acetylation at the promoter region. In conclusion, our study confirmed that activation of lncRNA DANCR by H3K27 acetylation has an oncogenic role in CRC progression and provides a potential therapeutic target for CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Han
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, 16 Jiang Su Road, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ti-Dong Shan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, 16 Jiang Su Road, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hai-Tao Huang
- The International Medical Department, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, 262000, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Quan Song
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, 16 Jiang Su Road, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, 16 Jiang Su Road, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, 16 Jiang Su Road, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Klees C, Alexandri C, Demeestere I, Lybaert P. The Role of microRNA in Spermatogenesis: Is There a Place for Fertility Preservation Innovation? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:460. [PMID: 38203631 PMCID: PMC10778981 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010460] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Oncological treatments have dramatically improved over the last decade, and as a result, survival rates for cancer patients have also improved. Quality of life, including concerns about fertility, has become a major focus for both oncologists and patients. While oncologic treatments are often highly effective at suppressing neoplastic growth, they are frequently associated with severe gonadotoxicity, leading to infertility. For male patients, the therapeutic option to preserve fertility is semen cryopreservation. In prepubertal patients, immature testicular tissue can be sampled and stored to allow post-cure transplantation of the tissue, immature germ cells, or in vitro spermatogenesis. However, experimental techniques have not yet been proven effective for restoring sperm production for these patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as promising molecular markers and therapeutic tools in various diseases. These small regulatory RNAs possess the unique characteristic of having multiple gene targets. MiRNA-based therapeutics can, therefore, be used to modulate the expression of different genes involved in signaling pathways dysregulated by changes in the physiological environment (disease, temperature, ex vivo culture, pharmacological agents). This review discusses the possible role of miRNA as an innovative treatment option in male fertility preservation-restoration strategies and describes the diverse applications where these new therapeutic tools could serve as fertility protection agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Klees
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.K.); (C.A.); (I.D.)
| | - Chrysanthi Alexandri
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.K.); (C.A.); (I.D.)
| | - Isabelle Demeestere
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.K.); (C.A.); (I.D.)
- Fertility Clinic, HUB-Erasme Hospital, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pascale Lybaert
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.K.); (C.A.); (I.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Joshi M, Sethi S, Mehta P, Kumari A, Rajender S. Small RNAs, spermatogenesis, and male infertility: a decade of retrospect. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:106. [PMID: 37924131 PMCID: PMC10625245 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01155-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs), being the top regulators of gene expression, have been thoroughly studied in various biological systems, including the testis. Research over the last decade has generated significant evidence in support of the crucial roles of sncRNAs in male reproduction, particularly in the maintenance of primordial germ cells, meiosis, spermiogenesis, sperm fertility, and early post-fertilization development. The most commonly studied small RNAs in spermatogenesis are microRNAs (miRNAs), PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (ts-RNAs). Small non-coding RNAs are crucial in regulating the dynamic, spatial, and temporal gene expression profiles in developing germ cells. A number of small RNAs, particularly miRNAs and tsRNAs, are loaded on spermatozoa during their epididymal maturation. With regard to their roles in fertility, miRNAs have been studied most often, followed by piRNAs and tsRNAs. Dysregulation of more than 100 miRNAs has been shown to correlate with infertility. piRNA and tsRNA dysregulations in infertility have been studied in only 3-5 studies. Sperm-borne small RNAs hold great potential to act as biomarkers of sperm quality and fertility. In this article, we review the role of small RNAs in spermatogenesis, their association with infertility, and their potential as biomarkers of sperm quality and fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meghali Joshi
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shruti Sethi
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Poonam Mehta
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anamika Kumari
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Singh Rajender
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Olotu O, Ahmedani A, Kotaja N. Small Non-Coding RNAs in Male Reproduction. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:213-225. [PMID: 38346711 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1779726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Male reproductive functions are strictly regulated in order to maintain sperm production and fertility. All processes are controlled by precise regulation of gene expression, which creates specific gene expression programs for different developmental stages and cell types, and forms the functional basis for the reproductive system. Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) are involved in gene regulation by targeting mRNAs for translational repression and degradation through complementary base pairing to recognize their targets. This review article summarizes the current knowledge on the function of different classes of sncRNAs, in particular microRNAs (miRNAs) and PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), during male germ cell differentiation, with the focus on sncRNAs expressed in the germline. Although transcriptionally inactive, mature spermatozoa contain a complex population of sncRNAs, and we also discuss the recently identified role of sperm sncRNAs in the intergenerational transmission of epigenetic information on father's environmental and lifestyle exposures to offspring. Finally, we summarize the current information on the utility of sncRNAs as potential biomarkers of infertility that may aid in the diagnosis and prediction of outcomes of medically assisted reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Opeyemi Olotu
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Ammar Ahmedani
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Noora Kotaja
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dong Z, Ning Q, Liu Y, Wang S, Wang F, Luo X, Chen N, Lei C. Comparative transcriptomics analysis of testicular miRNA from indicine and taurine cattle. Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:1436-1446. [PMID: 35130471 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2022.2029466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies have shown that several microRNAs (miRNAs) are specifically expressed in testis, play an essential role in regulating testicular spermatogenesis. Hainan and Mongolian cattle are two representative Chinese native cattle breeds representing Bos indicus (indicine cattle) and Bos taurus (taurine cattle), respectively, which are distributed in hot Hainan and cold Inner Mongolia province. To study the functional differences of miRNA in spermatogenesis between indicine and taurine cattle, six mature testes samples from indicine cattle (n = 3) and taurine cattle (n = 3) were collected, respectively. We detected miRNA expression using small RNA sequencing technology following bioinformatic analysis. A total of 578 known miRNAs and 132 novel miRNAs were detected in the six libraries. Among the 710 miRNAs, 564 miRNAs were expressed in both indicine and taurine cattle, 73 miRNAs were found solely in indicine cattle and 73 miRNAs were found solely in taurine cattle. After further analysis, among the miRNAs were identified in both indicine and taurine cattle, 184 miRNAs were differentially expressed (|log2 fold change| ≥ 1 and corrected p-value <0.05). Among the miRNAs that were only expressed in indicine cattle, 10 miRNAs were differentially expressed, whereas, among the miRNAs that were only expressed in taurine cattle, six miRNAs were differentially expressed. The enrichment analysis result showed that predicted target genes of a total of 200 differentially expressed miRNAs were enriched on some testicular spermatogenesis-related Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, especially mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. These findings identify miRNAs as key factors to regulate spermatogenesis in both indicine and taurine cattle, which may also be helpful for improving cattle reproductive performance in future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Dong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Qingqing Ning
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yangkai Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Shikang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Fuwen Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Xiaoyu Luo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Ningbo Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Chuzhao Lei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bollwein H, Malama E. Review: Evaluation of bull fertility. Functional and molecular approaches. Animal 2023; 17 Suppl 1:100795. [PMID: 37567681 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
With the term "assisted reproduction technologies" in modern cattle farming, one could imply the collection of techniques that aim at the optimal use of bovine gametes to produce animals of high genetic value in a time- and cost-efficient manner. The accurate characterisation of sperm quality plays a critical role for the efficiency of several assisted reproduction-related procedures, such as sperm processing, in vitro embryo production and artificial insemination. Bull fertility is ultimately a collective projection of the ability of a series of ejaculates to endure sperm processing stress, and achieve fertilisation of the oocyte and production of a viable and well-developing embryo. In this concept, the assessment of sperm functional and molecular characteristics is key to bull fertility diagnostics and prognostics. Among others, functional features linked to sperm plasma membrane, acrosome and DNA integrity are usually assessed as a measure of the ability of sperm to express the phenotypes that will allow them to maintain their homeostasis and orchestrate-in a strict temporal manner-the course of events that will enable the delivery of their genetic content to the oocyte upon fertilisation. Nevertheless, measures of sperm functionality are not always adequate indicators of bull fertility. Nowadays, advancements in the field of molecular biology have facilitated the profiling of several biomolecules in male gametes. The molecular profiling of bovine sperm offers a deeper insight into the mechanisms underlying sperm physiology and, thus, can reveal novel candidate markers for bull fertility prognosis. In this review, the importance of three organelles (the nucleus, the plasma membrane and the acrosome) for the characterisation of sperm fertilising capacity and bull fertility is discussed at functional and molecular levels. In particular, information about sperm head morphometry, chromatin structure, viability as well as the ability of sperm to capacitate and undergo the acrosome reaction are presented in relation to the cryotolerance of male gametes and bull fertility. Finally, major spermatozoal coding and non-coding RNAs, and proteins that are involved in the above-mentioned aspects of sperm functionality are also summarised.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Bollwein
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Department for Farm Animals, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - E Malama
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Department for Farm Animals, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Naydenov M, Nikolova M, Apostolov A, Glogovitis I, Salumets A, Baev V, Yahubyan G. The Dynamics of miR-449a/c Expression during Uterine Cycles Are Associated with Endometrial Development. BIOLOGY 2022; 12:biology12010055. [PMID: 36671747 PMCID: PMC9855972 DOI: 10.3390/biology12010055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The human endometrium is a highly dynamic tissue. Increasing evidence has shown that microRNAs (miRs) play essential roles in human endometrium development. Our previous assay, based on small RNA-sequencing (sRNA-seq) indicated the complexity and dynamics of numerous sequence variants of miRs (isomiRs) that can act together to control genes of functional relevance to the receptive endometrium (RE). Here, we used a greater average depth of sRNA-seq to detect poorly expressed small RNAs. The sequencing data confirmed the up-regulation of miR-449c and uncovered other members of the miR-449 family up-regulated in RE-among them miR-449a, as well as several isoforms of both miR-449a and miR-449c, while the third family member, miR-449b, was not identified. Stem-looped RT-qPCR analysis of miR expression at four-time points of the endometrial cycle verified the increased expression of the miR-449a/c family members in RE, among which the 5' isoform of miR-449c-miR-449c.1 was the most strongly up-regulated. Moreover, we found in a case study that the expression of miR-449c.1 and its precursor correlated with the histological assessment of the endometrial phase and patient age. We believe this study will promote the clinical investigation and application of the miR-449 family in the diagnosis and prognosis of human reproductive diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mladen Naydenov
- Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv, Tzar Assen 24, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Nikolova
- Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv, Tzar Assen 24, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Center for Women’s Health, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Apostol Apostolov
- Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv, Tzar Assen 24, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, 50406 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ilias Glogovitis
- Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv, Tzar Assen 24, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andres Salumets
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, 50406 Tartu, Estonia
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, 50406 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Vesselin Baev
- Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv, Tzar Assen 24, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Galina Yahubyan
- Faculty of Biology, University of Plovdiv, Tzar Assen 24, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Amelkina O, da Silva AM, Silva AR, Comizzoli P. Feline microRNAome in ovary and testis: Exploration of in-silico miRNA-mRNA networks involved in gonadal function and cellular stress response. Front Genet 2022; 13:1009220. [PMID: 36226169 PMCID: PMC9548565 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1009220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to perform the first in-depth analysis of miRNAs in ovarian and testicular tissues of the domestic cat, a critical biomedical model. Specifically, potential miRNA involvement was explored in gonadal function, testis development, and cellular stress response to preservation protocols. We performed miRNA-sequencing on 20 ovarian and 20 testicular samples from 15 cats, including different ages and tissue treatments. Using fresh tissues (n = 15), we confirmed gonadal expression of 183 miRNA precursors and discovered additional 52 novel feline candidate precursors. We integrated the mRNA data from our previous study on the same age and treatment groups to create in-silico miRNA-mRNA networks and their functional enrichment, which allows comprehensive exploration into possible miRNA functions in cat gonads. Clusters of miRNAs united by shared differentially expressed mRNA targets are potentially involved in testicular development and spermatogenesis. MicroRNAs could play a significant role in ovarian tissue response to stress from microwave-assisted dehydration, with smaller roles in cellular response to vitrification in both ovary and testis. This new list of miRNAs with potential function in cat gonads is a major step towards understanding the gonadal biology, as well as optimizing fertility preservation protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olga Amelkina
- Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Andreia M. da Silva
- Laboratory of Animal Germplasm Conservation, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid—UFERSA, Mossoró, Brazil
| | - Alexandre R. Silva
- Laboratory of Animal Germplasm Conservation, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid—UFERSA, Mossoró, Brazil
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kim S, Han J, Ahn YH, Ha CH, Hwang JJ, Lee SE, Kim JJ, Kim N. Protective Role of miR-34c in Hypoxia by Activating Autophagy through BCL2 Repression. Mol Cells 2022; 45:403-412. [PMID: 35611688 PMCID: PMC9200661 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2022.2010] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia leads to significant cellular stress that has diverse pathological consequences such as cardiovascular diseases and cancers. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are one of regulators of the adaptive pathway in hypoxia. We identified a hypoxia-induced miRNA, miR-34c, that was significantly upregulated in hypoxic human umbilical cord vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and in murine blood vessels on day 3 of hindlimb ischemia (HLI). miR-34c directly inhibited BCL2 expression, acting as a toggle switch between apoptosis and autophagy in vitro and in vivo. BCL2 repression by miR-34c activated autophagy, which was evaluated by the expression of LC3-II. Overexpression of miR-34c inhibited apoptosis in HUVEC as well as in a murine model of HLI, and increased cell viability in HUVEC. Importantly, the number of viable cells in the blood vessels following HLI was increased by miR-34c overexpression. Collectively, our findings show that miR-34c plays a protective role in hypoxia, suggesting a novel therapeutic target for hypoxic and ischemic diseases in the blood vessels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soyoung Kim
- Department of Convergence Medicine & Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| | - Jaeseok Han
- Department of Convergence Medicine & Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
- Asan Medical Institute for Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| | - Young-Ho Ahn
- Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Korea
| | - Chang Hoon Ha
- Department of Convergence Medicine & Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| | - Jung Jin Hwang
- Department of Convergence Medicine & Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| | - Sang-Eun Lee
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| | - Jae-Joong Kim
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| | - Nayoung Kim
- Department of Convergence Medicine & Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yokota S, Takeda K, Oshio S. Spatiotemporal Small Non-coding RNAs Expressed in the Germline as an Early Biomarker of Testicular Toxicity and Transgenerational Effects Caused by Prenatal Exposure to Nanosized Particles. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2022; 3:691070. [PMID: 35295114 PMCID: PMC8915876 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2021.691070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, an apparent decline in human sperm quality has been observed worldwide. One in every 5.5 couples suffers from infertility, with male reproductive problems contributing to nearly 40% of all infertility cases. Although the reasons for the increasing number of infertility cases are largely unknown, both genetic and environmental factors can be contributing factors. In particular, exposure to chemical substances during mammalian male germ cell development has been linked to an increased risk of infertility in later life owing to defective sperm production, reproductive tract obstruction, inflammation, and sexual disorders. Prenatal exposure to nanomaterials (NMs) is no exception. In animal experiments, maternal exposure to NMs has been reported to affect the reproductive health of male offspring. Male germ cells require multiple epigenetic reprogramming events during their lifespan to acquire reproductive capacity. Given that spermatozoa deliver the paternal genome to oocytes upon fertilization, we hypothesized that maternal exposure to NMs negatively affects male germ cells by altering epigenetic regulation, which may in turn affect embryo development. Small non-coding RNAs (including microRNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs, tRNA-derived small RNAs, and rRNA-derived small RNAs), which are differentially expressed in mammalian male germ cells in a spatiotemporal manner, could play important regulatory roles in spermatogenesis and embryogenesis. Thus, the evaluation of RNAs responsible for sperm fertility is of great interest in reproductive toxicology and medicine. However, whether the effect of maternal exposure to NMs on spermatogenesis in the offspring (intergenerational effects) really triggers multigenerational effects remains unclear, and infertility biomarkers for evaluating paternal inheritance have not been identified to date. In this review, existing lines of evidence on the effects of prenatal exposure to NMs on male reproduction are summarized. A working hypothesis of the transgenerational effects of sperm-derived epigenomic changes in the F1 generation is presented, in that such maternal exposure could affect early embryonic development followed by deficits in neurodevelopment and male reproduction in the F2 generation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Yokota
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Toxicology, Center for Biological Safety and Research, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Ken Takeda
- Division of Toxicology and Health Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sanyo-Onoda City University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Shigeru Oshio
- Department of Hygiene Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ohu University, Koriyama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Walker WH. Regulation of mammalian spermatogenesis by miRNAs. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 121:24-31. [PMID: 34006455 PMCID: PMC8591147 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Male fertility requires the continual production of sperm by the process of spermatogenesis. This process requires the correct timing of regulatory signals to germ cells during each phase of their development. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) in germ cells and supporting Sertoli cells respond to regulatory signals and cause down- or upregulation of mRNAs and proteins required to produce proteins that act in various pathways to support spermatogenesis. The targets and functional consequences of altered miRNA expression in undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids and Sertoli cells are discussed. Mechanisms are reviewed by which miRNAs contribute to decisions that promote spermatogonia stem cell self-renewal versus differentiation, entry into and progression through meiosis, differentiation of spermatids, as well as the regulation of Sertoli cell proliferation and differentiation. Also discussed are miRNA actions providing the very first signals for the differentiation of spermatogonia stem cells in a non-human primate model of puberty initiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William H. Walker
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wang C, Jia Q, Guo X, Li K, Chen W, Shen Q, Xu C, Fu Y. microRNA-34 Family: From Mechanism to Potential Applications. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2022; 144:106168. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2022.106168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
16
|
He C, Wang K, Gao Y, Wang C, Li L, Liao Y, Hu K, Liang M. Roles of Noncoding RNA in Reproduction. Front Genet 2021; 12:777510. [PMID: 34956326 PMCID: PMC8695933 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.777510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization predicts that infertility will be the third major health threat after cancer and cardiovascular disease, and will become a hot topic in medical research. Studies have shown that epigenetic changes are an important component of gametogenesis and related reproductive diseases. Epigenetic regulation of noncoding RNA (ncRNA) is appropriate and is a research hotspot in the biomedical field; these include long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA). As vital members of the intracellular gene regulatory network, they affect various life activities of cells. LncRNA functions as a molecular bait, molecular signal and molecular scaffold in the body through molecular guidance. miRNAs are critical regulators of gene expression; they mainly control the stability or translation of their target mRNA after transcription. piRNA functions mainly through silencing genomic transposable elements and the post-transcriptional regulation of mRNAs in animal germ cells. Current studies have shown that these ncRNAs also play significant roles in the reproductive system and are involved in the regulation of essential cellular events in spermatogenesis and follicular development. The abnormal expression of ncRNA is closely linked to testicular germ cell tumors, poly cystic ovary syndrome and other diseases. This paper briefly presents the research on the reproductive process and reproductive diseases involving ncRNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ke Hu
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Meng Liang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ge Y, Zhang R, Feng Y, Lu J, Li H. Mbd2 deficiency alleviates retinal cell apoptosisvia the miR-345-5p/Atf1 axis in high glucoseinjury and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 26:1201-1214. [PMID: 34853720 PMCID: PMC8605293 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
DNA methylation is considered to play an important role in the development of diabetic retinopathy. Here, our goal was to investigate the precise role of methyl-CpG binding domain protein 2 (Mbd2) in the apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in the early diabetic retina. Mbd2 was significantly upregulated after high glucose (HG) treatment and played a proapoptotic role in RGCs during HG-induced apoptosis. Combining ChIP and gene microarray datasets, the results showed that Mbd2 possessed potential binding sites for miR-345-5p, thereby elevating the expression levels of miR-345-5p via the enhancement of promoter demethylation. Activating transcription factor 1 (Atf1) played an anti-apoptotic role during the process of apoptosis in RGCs and acted as the target gene for miR-345-5p. Furthermore, the number of surviving RGCs in the diabetic retina was increased in Mbd2-knockout mice when compared with wild-type mice and the visual function became better accordingly. Collectively, our data demonstrated that the HG-induced overexpression of Mbd2 in the retina was partly responsible for the apoptosis of retinal neuronal cells through the miR-345-5p/Atf1 axis. Therefore, the targeting of Mbd2 might represent a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of neurodegeneration in the early diabetic retina.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanni Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Ran Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Yuqing Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Jinfang Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Huiling Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sperm miR-34c-5p Transcript Content and Its Association with Sperm Parameters in Unexplained Infertile Men. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:84-90. [PMID: 34494232 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00733-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an essential role in regulatory functions during gametogenesis. There is evidence that dysregulation of miR-34c-5p is implicated in the pathogenesis of male infertility. Whether miR-34c-5p expression could represent the semen quality and be useful in prediction of the fertilizing ability in normozoospermic men was examined in this study. Normozoospermic infertile patients (n = 15) and fertile men (n = 15) were recruited from the Infertility Clinic of Ahvaz, Iran. Sperm contents of miR-34c-5p transcript in were assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. No significant differences were seen in semen characteristics between patients and fertile men. Infertile patients showed significant (p = 0.019) lower contents of sperm miR-34c-5p than fertile controls. Men with lower transcript contents of miR-34c-5p exhibit lower sperm motility and normal morphology. Sperm miR-34c-5p transcript with a relatively good diagnostic power discriminated unexplained infertile men (AUC = 0.751, 95% CI: 0.568-0.934; p = 0.019). Our findings show that sperm contents of miR-34c-5p transcript could reflect the quality of spermatozoa in etiology of unexplained male infertility and be helpful in predicting a successful pregnancy.
Collapse
|
19
|
Yildirim D, Bender O, Karagoz ZF, Helvacioglu F, Bilgic MA, Akcay A, Ruzgaresen NB. Role of autophagy and evaluation the effects of microRNAs 214, 132, 34c and prorenin receptor in a rat model of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. Life Sci 2021; 280:119671. [PMID: 34087284 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is the common cause of chronic renal disease worldwide. Although there are many etiologic factors which have common theme of podocyte injury conclusive etiology is not clearly understood. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of autophagy in the pathogenesis of podocyte injury, which is the key point in disease progression, and the roles of intrarenal microRNAs and the prorenin receptor (PRR) in the 5/6 nephrectomy and adriamycin nephropathy models of FSGS. MAIN METHODS For experimental FSGS model, 5/6 nephrectomy and adriamycin nephropathy models were created and characterized in adult Sprague Dawley rats. Microarray analysis was performed on FSGS and control groups that was confirmed by q-RT-PCR. Beclin1, LC3B, PRR, ATG7 and ATG5 expression were evaluated by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Also, Beclin1 and PRR expression were measured by ELISA. Glomerular podocyte isolation was performed and autophagic activity was evaluated in podocytes before and after transfection with miRNA mimic and antagonists. KEY FINDINGS Glomerular expression of Beclin1, LC3B, PRR, ATG7 and ATG5 were significantly lower in the 5/6 nephrectomy than adriamycin nephropathy group and in both groups lower when compared to control groups. Western blot results were consistent with immunohistochemical data. Electron microscopy revealed signs of impaired autophagy in FSGS. Autophagic activity decreased significantly after miR-214, miR-132 and miR-34c mimics and increased after transfection with antagonists. SIGNIFICANCE These results showed that the role of autophagic activity and decreased expression of PRR in FSGS pathogenesis and miR-34c, miR-132 and miR-214 could be a potential treatment strategy by regulating autophagy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Derya Yildirim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ankara Education and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Onur Bender
- Biotechnology Institute, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zehra Firat Karagoz
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Fatma Helvacioglu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Baskent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Ali Akcay
- Department of Nephrology, Koru Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Vashisht A, Gahlay GK. Using miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers for male infertility: opportunities and challenges. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:199-214. [PMID: 32084276 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The non-coding genome has been extensively studied for its role in human development and diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs, which can regulate the expression of hundreds of genes at the post-transcriptional level. Therefore, any defects in miRNA biogenesis or processing can affect the genes and have been linked to several diseases. Male infertility is a clinical disorder with a significant number of cases being idiopathic. Problems in spermatogenesis and epididymal maturation, testicular development, sperm maturation or migration contribute to male infertility, and many of these idiopathic cases are related to issues with the miRNAs which tightly regulate these processes. This review summarizes the recent research on various such miRNAs and puts together the candidate miRNAs that may be used as biomarkers for diagnosis. The development of strategies for male infertility treatment using anti-miRs or miRNA mimics is also discussed. Although promising, the development of miRNA diagnostics and therapeutics is challenging, and ways to overcome some of these challenges are also reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Vashisht
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab 143005 India
| | - G K Gahlay
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab 143005 India
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Barbu MG, Thompson DC, Suciu N, Voinea SC, Cretoiu D, Predescu DV. The Roles of MicroRNAs in Male Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22062910. [PMID: 33805594 PMCID: PMC7998158 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22062910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs applications were vastly studied throughout the years, spanning from potential cancer biomarkers to targeted therapies for various diseases. Out of these utilizations, this paper focuses on their role in male infertility. Approximately 10–15% of worldwide couples are affected by infertility. Out of these, 50% are due to male determinants. The majority of cases still have an undetermined cause. Previous studies have found that the aberrant expression of microRNAs could be linked to certain reproductive dysfunctions in males. Further on, this study looked into the most recent literature published on this subject in order to assess the connection between the up-/down-regulation of various microRNAs and the roles they play in male infertility. MicroRNAs were found to be abundant and stable in the seminal liquid, which led to a facile identification using regular RNA detection methods. It was observed that the concentration of microRNAs in semen was modified in the case of patients suffering from asthenozoospermia and azoospermia. Moreover, idiopathic male infertility was associated with a single nucleotide polymorphism of the microRNA binding site. Future studies should focus their attention on discovering future treatments against male infertility targeting specific microRNAs and also on developing new and improved contraceptive methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madalina Gabriela Barbu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 020395 Bucharest, Romania; (M.G.B.); (D.C.T.); (D.C.)
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dana Claudia Thompson
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 020395 Bucharest, Romania; (M.G.B.); (D.C.T.); (D.C.)
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicolae Suciu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 020395 Bucharest, Romania; (M.G.B.); (D.C.T.); (D.C.)
- Division of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Neonatology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Polizu Clinical Hospital, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 011061 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (N.S.); (S.C.V.)
| | - Silviu Cristian Voinea
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Institute of Oncology Prof. Dr. Alexandru Trestioreanu, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (N.S.); (S.C.V.)
| | - Dragos Cretoiu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 020395 Bucharest, Romania; (M.G.B.); (D.C.T.); (D.C.)
- Department of Cell, Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dragos Valentin Predescu
- Department of General Surgery, Sf. Maria Clinical Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 011172 Bucharest, Romania;
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Neto FTL, Flannigan R, Goldstein M. Regulation of Human Spermatogenesis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:255-286. [PMID: 34453741 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human spermatogenesis (HS) is an intricate network of sequential processes responsible for the production of the male gamete, the spermatozoon. These processes take place in the seminiferous tubules (ST) of the testis, which are small tubular structures considered the functional units of the testes. Each human testicle contains approximately 600-1200 STs [1], and are capable of producing up to 275 million spermatozoa per day [2].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan Flannigan
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Marc Goldstein
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Pantos K, Grigoriadis S, Tomara P, Louka I, Maziotis E, Pantou A, Nitsos N, Vaxevanoglou T, Kokkali G, Agarwal A, Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M. Investigating the Role of the microRNA-34/449 Family in Male Infertility: A Critical Analysis and Review of the Literature. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:709943. [PMID: 34276570 PMCID: PMC8281345 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.709943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a great body of evidence suggesting that in both humans and animal models the microRNA-34/449 (miR-34/449) family plays a crucial role for normal testicular functionality as well as for successful spermatogenesis, regulating spermatozoa maturation and functionality. This review and critical analysis aims to summarize the potential mechanisms via which miR-34/449 dysregulation could lead to male infertility. Existing data indicate that miR-34/449 family members regulate ciliogenesis in the efferent ductules epithelium. Upon miR-34/449 dysregulation, ciliogenesis in the efferent ductules is significantly impaired, leading to sperm aggregation and agglutination as well as to defective reabsorption of the seminiferous tubular fluids. These events in turn cause obstruction of the efferent ductules and thus accumulation of the tubular fluids resulting to high hydrostatic pressure into the testis. High hydrostatic pressure progressively leads to testicular dysfunction as well as to spermatogenic failure and finally to male infertility, which could range from severe oligoasthenozoospermia to azoospermia. In addition, miR-34/449 family members act as significant regulators of spermatogenesis with an essential role in controlling expression patterns of several spermatogenesis-related proteins. It is demonstrated that these microRNAs are meiotic specific microRNAs as their expression is relatively higher at the initiation of meiotic divisions during spermatogenesis. Moreover, data indicate that these molecules are essential for proper formation as well as for proper function of spermatozoa per se. MicroRNA-34/449 family seems to exert significant anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic properties and thus contribute to testicular homeostatic regulation. Considering the clinical significance of these microRNAs, data indicate that the altered expression of the miR-34/449 family members is strongly associated with several aspects of male infertility. Most importantly, miR-34/449 levels in spermatozoa, in testicular tissues as well as in seminal plasma seem to be directly associated with severity of male infertility, indicating that these microRNAs could serve as potential sensitive biomarkers for an accurate individualized differential diagnosis, as well as for the assessment of the severity of male factor infertility. In conclusion, dysregulation of miR-34/449 family detrimentally affects male reproductive potential, impairing both testicular functionality as well as spermatogenesis. Future studies are needed to verify these conclusions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Penelope Tomara
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioanna Louka
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Nitsos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Georgia Kokkali
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | | | - Mara Simopoulou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- *Correspondence: Mara Simopoulou,
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Mokánszki A, Molnár Z, Varga Tóthné E, Bodnár B, Jakab A, Bálint BL, Balogh I. Altered microRNAs expression levels of sperm and seminal plasma in patients with infertile ejaculates compared with normozoospermic males. HUM FERTIL 2020; 23:246-255. [PMID: 30632823 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2018.1562241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 15% of couples are unable to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse. Because sperm can be accessed with ease, it is reasonable to search for non-invasive biomarkers in semen. MicroRNAs are a family of short single-stranded non-coding RNA molecules that are capable of regulating gene expression and causing mRNA degradation. We studied the most common 11 spermatogenesis-related microRNAs expression levels in sperm and seminal plasma from patients with oligozoospermic or asthenozoospermic ejaculates, and in men with normozoospermic ejaculates. Five of these miRNAs were significantly upregulated and three were downregulated in infertile males compared to men with normozoospermic ejaculates. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between the sperm concentration and several microRNA expression level (let-7a, miR-7-1-3p, miR-141, miR-200a, and miR-429, p < 0.0001) both in sperm and in seminal plasma. We also found positive correlation between sperm concentration and some miRNA expression levels (miR-15b, miR-34b, and miR-122, p < 0.001) in sperm and in seminal plasma. This is the first study to demonstrate differences between sperm and seminal plasma miRNA expression level and to identify a correlation between the sperm concentration and miRNAs expression level. Therefore, these MiRNAs could have the potential be used as non-invasive biomarkers to diagnose males with impaired sperm production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Attila Mokánszki
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Genetics, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsanna Molnár
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Genetics, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Emese Varga Tóthné
- Assisted Reproduction Center, Kaali Institute, Clinical Centre, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Béla Bodnár
- Assisted Reproduction Center, Kaali Institute, Clinical Centre, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Attila Jakab
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Bálint L Bálint
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - István Balogh
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Genetics, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Zhang HT, Zhang Z, Hong K, Tang WH, Liu DF, Mao JM, Yang YZ, Lin HC, Jiang H. Altered microRNA profiles of testicular biopsies from patients with nonobstructive azoospermia. Asian J Androl 2020; 22:100-105. [PMID: 31134916 PMCID: PMC6958976 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_35_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Many studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) play vital roles during the spermatogenesis. However, little is known about the altered miRNA profiles of testicular tissues in nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). Using microarray technology, the miRNA expression profiles of testicular biopsies from patients with NOA and of normal testicular tissues were determined. Bioinformatics analyses were conducted to predict the enriched biological processes and functions of identified miRNAs. The microarray data were validated by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), the results of which were then validated with a larger sample size. Correlations between the miRNA expression levels and clinical characteristics were analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic ability of miRNAs for azoospermia. Hierarchical clustering showed that 129 miRNAs were significantly differentially expressed between the NOA and control groups. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that the differentially expressed miRNAs were involved in spermatogenesis, cell cycle, and mitotic prometaphase. In the subsequent qRT-PCR assays, the selected miRNA expression levels were consistent with the microarray results, and similar validated results were obtained with a larger sample size. Some clinical characteristics were significantly associated with the expression of certain miRNAs. In particular, we identified a combination of two miRNAs (miR-10b-3p and miR-34b-5p) that could serve as a predictive biomarker of azoospermia. This study provides altered miRNA profiles of testicular biopsies from NOA patients and examines the roles of miRNAs in spermatogenesis. These profiles may be useful for predicting and diagnosing the presence of testicular sperm in individuals with azoospermia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Tao Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Andrology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Andrology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Kai Hong
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Andrology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Wen-Hao Tang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Andrology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Human Sperm Bank, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - De-Feng Liu
- Department of Andrology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jia-Ming Mao
- Department of Andrology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yu-Zhuo Yang
- Department of Andrology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Human Sperm Bank, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hao-Cheng Lin
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Andrology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Andrology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Human Sperm Bank, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhao X, Weng W, Long Y, Pan W, Li Z, Sun F. LINC00665/miR-9-5p/ATF1 is a novel axis involved in the progression of colorectal cancer. Hum Cell 2020; 33:1142-1154. [PMID: 32776307 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-020-00393-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are abnormally expressed in many malignant tumors and involved in regulating the malignant phenotypes of cancer cells. However, the role of LINC00665 in colorectal cancer (CRC) and its regulatory mechanism remain unclear. In this study, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to detect the expressions of LINC00665, miR-9-5p and activating transcription factor 1 (ATF1) mRNA in CRC tissues. The expression of ATF1 in CRC tissues was also detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. CCK-8 and colony formation assays were employed to detect cell proliferation. Cell cycle and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry analysis. Scratch healing assay and Transwell test were exploited to detect cell migration and invasion. The targeting relationships between LINC00665 and miR-9-5p, and miR-9-5p and ATF1 were validated by dual luciferase reporter assay. We found that LINC00665 was significantly overexpressed in CRC tissues, and it was also negatively correlated with the expression of miR-9-5p and positively associated with the expression of ATF1. Besides, LINC00665 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of CRC cells, and inhibited cell apoptosis by sponging miR-9-5p. ATF1 was proved to be the downstream target of miR-9-5p and was indirectly regulated by LINC00665. Collectively, it is concluded that LINC00665 contributes to the progression of CRC by regulating miR-9-5p/ATF1 axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuhong Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenhao Weng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, People's Republic of China
| | - Yin Long
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, People's Republic of China
| | - Weijie Pan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, People's Republic of China.
| | - Fenyong Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai 10th People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Shi S, Shi Q, Sun Y. The effect of sperm miR-34c on human embryonic development kinetics and clinical outcomes. Life Sci 2020; 256:117895. [PMID: 32502545 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
AIMS We aimed to investigate the effect of sperm miR-34c on early human embryonic development kinetics and clinical outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF) patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS After oocyte insemination, residual sperm specimens were collected from 58 patients undergoing IVF. miR-34c expression levels in sperm, oocytes, zygotes, and embryos/blastocysts were detected with qRT-PCR, and embryonic development kinetics were observed using time-lapse technology. To confirm the role of miR-34c in regulation of early embryonic development, miR-34c siRNA was injected into zygotes obtained from in vitro-matured oocytes. A ROC curve was used to determine the cutoff value. Comparisons of embryonic development kinetics and clinical outcomes were performed according to the cutoff value. KEY FINDINGS The miR-34c expression level was highest in 3PN zygotes, but was not expressed in human oocytes. In the miR-34c siRNA group, embryonic development kinetic parameters t2, t3, t4, and t5 were significantly prolonged, but the cleavage rate and high-quality embryo rate were lower than in the control group. The levels of sperm miR-34c were negatively correlated with t5 and positively correlated with rates of blastocyst formation, high-quality blastocysts, and pregnancy. The miR-34c levels and the blastocyst formation rate were higher in the pregnancy group (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that sperm miR-34c level was significantly correlated with pregnancy (OR: 5.056, 95% CI: 1.560-16.384; p = 0.007). SIGNIFICANCE The sperm miR-34c expression level is associated with embryonic development kinetics and clinical outcomes. Thus, miR-34c expression is beneficial to embryonic development and may be used as an indicator of IVF outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Senlin Shi
- Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Province Key Laboratory for Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Qiongyao Shi
- Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Province Key Laboratory for Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Yingpu Sun
- Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Province Key Laboratory for Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Finocchi F, Pelloni M, Balercia G, Pallotti F, Radicioni AF, Lenzi A, Lombardo F, Paoli D. Seminal plasma miRNAs in Klinefelter syndrome and in obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:4373-4382. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05552-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
|
29
|
Menezes ESB, Badial PR, El Debaky H, Husna AU, Ugur MR, Kaya A, Topper E, Bulla C, Grant KE, Bolden-Tiller O, Moura AA, Memili E. Sperm miR-15a and miR-29b are associated with bull fertility. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13412. [PMID: 31671225 DOI: 10.1111/and.13412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs modulate male fertility by regulating gene expression. In this study, dynamics of sperm miR-15a, miR-29b and miR-34a from high fertility (HF) and low fertility (LF) bulls using RT-qPCR were evaluated. Bioinformatic tools were employed to ascertain genes of interest of the sperm miRNAs. The expression levels of p53, BCL2, BAX and DNMT1 in bull spermatozoa were determined by immunoblotting. MicroRNA levels of miR-15a and miR-29 were higher in LF sires when compared with those present in HF bulls. Expression levels of miR-34a did not differ between the two groups. We found an inverse correlation between miR-15a and bull fertility. MiR29-b was also negatively associated with fertility scores. BCL2 and DNMT1 were higher in HF bulls while BAX was higher in the LF group. Our data showed a positive correlation between BCL2 and bull fertility. In addition, DNMT1 was positively associated with bull fertility. Furthermore, levels of BAX were negatively linked with bull fertility scores. Identification of miRNAs found in the spermatozoa of sires with different in vivo fertility helps understand the alterations in the fertilising capacity from cattle and other mammals. These potential biomarkers can be used in reproductive biotechnology as fertility markers to assess semen quality and predict male fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erika S B Menezes
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA.,Department of Animal Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Peres Ramos Badial
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Hazem El Debaky
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA.,National Research Center, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Asma Ul Husna
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA.,Department of Zoology, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammet Rasit Ugur
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Abdullah Kaya
- URUS Group LP, Madison, WI, USA.,Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | | | - Camilo Bulla
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Kamilah E Grant
- Center for Biotechnology and Department of Agriculture School of Agriculture & Applied Sciences, Alcorn State University, Lorman, MS, USA
| | - Olga Bolden-Tiller
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL, USA
| | - Arlindo A Moura
- Department of Animal Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Erdoğan Memili
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Mohammad RM, Li Y, Muqbil I, Aboukameel A, Senapedis W, Baloglu E, Landesman Y, Philip PA, Azmi AS. Targeting Rho GTPase effector p21 activated kinase 4 (PAK4) suppresses p-Bad-microRNA drug resistance axis leading to inhibition of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma proliferation. Small GTPases 2019; 10:367-377. [PMID: 28641032 PMCID: PMC6748371 DOI: 10.1080/21541248.2017.1329694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive and therapy resistant malignancy. Mutant K-Ras, found in >90% of refractory PDAC, acts as a molecular switch activating Rho GTPase signaling that in turn promotes a plethora of pro-survival molecules and oncogenic microRNAs. We investigated the impact of Rho GTPase effector protein p21 activated kinase 4 (PAK4) inhibition on pro-survival p-Bad and oncogenic miRNA signaling. We demonstrate that the dual NAMPT and PAK4 modulators (KPT-9274 and KPT-9307) inhibit PDAC cell proliferation through downregulation of Bad phosphorylation and upregulation of tumor suppressive miRNAs (miR-145, let-7c, let-7d, miR-34c, miR320 and miR-100). These results suggest that targeting PAK4 could become a promising approach to restore pro-apoptotic function of Bad and simultaneously activate tumor suppressive miRNAs in therapy resistant PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramzi M. Mohammad
- Department of Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Yiwei Li
- Department of Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Irfana Muqbil
- Department of Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Amro Aboukameel
- Department of Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | | | | | - Philip A. Philip
- Department of Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Asfar S. Azmi
- Department of Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Che Q, Wang W, Duan P, Fang F, Liu C, Zhou T, Li H, Xiong C, Zhao K. Downregulation of miR-322 promotes apoptosis of GC-2 cell by targeting Ddx3x. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:63. [PMID: 31382975 PMCID: PMC6683552 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0506-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberrant DNA damage of germ cells, which impairs spermatogenesis and lowers fertility, is an important factor contributing to male infertility. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a significant role in the expression and regulation of multiple genes during spermatogenesis. Our previous study found much lower miR-424 (murine homologue miR-322) levels in the seminal plasma of infertile patients with high DFI(DNA Fragmentation Index)than in the fertile group. However, the mechanism by which miR-322 regulates germ cells during spermatogenesis remains unknown. METHODS In this study, we successfully established a GC-2 cell model of miR-322 downregulation resulting in impaired spermatogenesis. And the cell viability were measured using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8; Dojindo, Japan) and MTT (Sigma Aldrich, USA). Immunofluorescence assay was used to detect cell damage and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins were measured using real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis. Target genes were predicted and verified by online database retrieval and Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. RESULTS We observed evident decreases in the cell viability of GC-2 cells along with remarkable increases in apoptosis after miR-322 inhibition. While the expression of apoptosis-related genes, including Bax and caspases 3, 9, and 8 greatly increased in GC-2 cells after miR-322 downregulation, that of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 gene decreased. Ddx3x was found to be the direct target of miR-322. MiR-424 was then detected in the seminal plasma of infertile patients with high DFI(DNA Fragmentation Index); this miRNA was down-regulated but Ddx3x was upregulated in the infertile group. CONCLUSION MiR-322 plays a key role in promoting GC-2 cell apoptosis by directly regulating Ddx3x expression. MiR-424 downregulation in infertile men may induce spermatogenic cell apoptosis and sperm DNA damage by directly acting on the target gene locus Ddx3x, resulting in male infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Che
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Peng Duan
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ting Zhou
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, 430014, China
| | - Chengling Xiong
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, 430014, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Zhang F, Zhang Y, Lv X, Xu B, Zhang H, Yan J, Li H, Wu L. Evolution of an X-Linked miRNA Family Predominantly Expressed in Mammalian Male Germ Cells. Mol Biol Evol 2019; 36:663-678. [PMID: 30649414 PMCID: PMC6445303 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msz001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression. However, comprehensive expression profiles of miRNAs during mammalian spermatogenesis are lacking. Herein, we sequenced small RNAs in highly purified mouse spermatogenic cells at different stages. We found that a family of X-linked miRNAs named spermatogenesis-related miRNAs (spermiRs) is predominantly expressed in the early meiotic phases and has a conserved testis-specific high expression pattern in different mammals. We identified one spermiR homolog in opossum; this homolog might originate from THER1, a retrotransposon that is active in marsupials but extinct in current placental mammals. SpermiRs have expanded rapidly with mammalian evolution and are diverged into two clades, spermiR-L and spermiR-R, which are likely to have been generated at least in part by tandem duplication mediated by flanking retrotransposable elements. Notably, despite having undergone highly frequent lineage-specific duplication events, the sequences encoding all spermiR family members are strictly located between two protein-coding genes, Slitrk2 and Fmr1. Moreover, spermiR-Ls and spermiR-Rs have evolved different expression patterns during spermatogenesis in different mammals. Intriguingly, the seed sequences of spermiRs, which are critical for the recognition of target genes, are highly divergent within and among mammals, whereas spermiR target genes largely overlap. When miR-741, the most highly expressed spermiR, is knocked out in cultured mouse spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), another spermiR, miR-465a-5p, is dramatically upregulated and becomes the most abundant miRNA. Notably, miR-741−/− SSCs grow normally, and the genome-wide expression levels of mRNAs remain unchanged. All these observations indicate functional compensation between spermiR family members and strong coevolution between spermiRs and their targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fengjuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaolong Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Beiying Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongdao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Yan
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Haipeng Li
- Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS-MPG Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ligang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Robles V, Valcarce DG, Riesco MF. Non-coding RNA regulation in reproduction: Their potential use as biomarkers. Noncoding RNA Res 2019; 4:54-62. [PMID: 31193491 PMCID: PMC6531869 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are crucial regulatory elements in most biological processes and reproduction is also controlled by them. The different types of ncRNAs, as well as the high complexity of these regulatory pathways, present a complex scenario; however, recent studies have shed some light on these questions, discovering the regulatory function of specific ncRNAs on concrete reproductive biology processes. This mini review will focus on the role of ncRNAs in spermatogenesis and oogenesis, and their potential use as biomarkers for reproductive diseases or for reproduction success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa Robles
- Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO) Santander, Spain
- MODCELL GROUP, Department of Molecular Biology, Universidad de León, 24071, León, Spain
- Corresponding author. Planta de Cultivos el Bocal, IEO, Barrio Corbanera, Monte, Santander, 39012, Spain.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Morgan M, Kabayama Y, Much C, Ivanova I, Di Giacomo M, Auchynnikava T, Monahan JM, Vitsios DM, Vasiliauskaitė L, Comazzetto S, Rappsilber J, Allshire RC, Porse BT, Enright AJ, O’Carroll D. A programmed wave of uridylation-primed mRNA degradation is essential for meiotic progression and mammalian spermatogenesis. Cell Res 2019; 29:221-232. [PMID: 30617251 PMCID: PMC6420129 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-018-0128-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Several developmental stages of spermatogenesis are transcriptionally quiescent which presents major challenges associated with the regulation of gene expression. Here we identify that the zygotene to pachytene transition is not only associated with the resumption of transcription but also a wave of programmed mRNA degradation that is essential for meiotic progression. We explored whether terminal uridydyl transferase 4- (TUT4-) or TUT7-mediated 3' mRNA uridylation contributes to this wave of mRNA degradation during pachynema. Indeed, both TUT4 and TUT7 are expressed throughout most of spermatogenesis, however, loss of either TUT4 or TUT7 does not have any major impact upon spermatogenesis. Combined TUT4 and TUT7 (TUT4/7) deficiency results in embryonic growth defects, while conditional gene targeting revealed an essential role for TUT4/7 in pachytene progression. Loss of TUT4/7 results in the reduction of miRNA, piRNA and mRNA 3' uridylation. Although this reduction does not greatly alter miRNA or piRNA expression, TUT4/7-mediated uridylation is required for the clearance of many zygotene-expressed transcripts in pachytene cells. We find that TUT4/7-regulated transcripts in pachytene spermatocytes are characterized by having long 3' UTRs with length-adjusted enrichment for AU-rich elements. We also observed these features in TUT4/7-regulated maternal transcripts whose dosage was recently shown to be essential for sculpting a functional maternal transcriptome and meiosis. Therefore, mRNA 3' uridylation is a critical determinant of both male and female germline transcriptomes. In conclusion, we have identified a novel requirement for 3' uridylation-programmed zygotene mRNA clearance in pachytene spermatocytes that is essential for male meiotic progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Morgan
- 0000 0004 1936 7988grid.4305.2MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU UK ,0000 0004 0627 3632grid.418924.2European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Via Ramarini 32, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy ,0000 0004 1936 7988grid.4305.2Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF UK
| | - Yuka Kabayama
- 0000 0004 1936 7988grid.4305.2MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU UK ,0000 0004 1936 7988grid.4305.2Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF UK
| | - Christian Much
- 0000 0004 1936 7988grid.4305.2MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU UK ,0000 0004 0627 3632grid.418924.2European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Via Ramarini 32, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Ivayla Ivanova
- 0000 0004 1936 7988grid.4305.2MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU UK
| | - Monica Di Giacomo
- 0000 0004 0627 3632grid.418924.2European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Via Ramarini 32, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Tatsiana Auchynnikava
- 0000 0004 1936 7988grid.4305.2Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF UK
| | - Jack Michael Monahan
- 0000 0000 9709 7726grid.225360.0European Bioinformatics Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD UK
| | | | - Lina Vasiliauskaitė
- 0000 0004 1936 7988grid.4305.2MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU UK ,0000 0004 0627 3632grid.418924.2European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Via Ramarini 32, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Stefano Comazzetto
- 0000 0004 0627 3632grid.418924.2European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Via Ramarini 32, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Juri Rappsilber
- 0000 0004 1936 7988grid.4305.2Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF UK ,0000 0001 2292 8254grid.6734.6Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, 13355 Germany
| | - Robin Campbell Allshire
- 0000 0004 1936 7988grid.4305.2Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF UK
| | - Bo Torben Porse
- 0000 0001 0674 042Xgrid.5254.6Biotech Research and Innovation Center (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200 Denmark ,0000 0001 0674 042Xgrid.5254.6The Finsen Laboratory, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200 Denmark ,0000 0001 0674 042Xgrid.5254.6Danish Stem Cell Centre (DanStem), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200 Denmark
| | - Anton James Enright
- 0000 0000 9709 7726grid.225360.0European Bioinformatics Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD UK
| | - Dónal O’Carroll
- 0000 0004 1936 7988grid.4305.2MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU UK ,0000 0004 1936 7988grid.4305.2Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF UK
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Identification of the X-linked germ cell specific miRNAs (XmiRs) and their functions. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0211739. [PMID: 30707741 PMCID: PMC6358104 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in multiple aspects of biology. Dicer, an RNase III endonuclease, is essential for the biogenesis of miRNAs, and the germ cell-specific Dicer1 knockout mouse shows severe defects in gametogenesis. How miRNAs regulate germ cell development is still not fully understood. In this study, we identified germ cell-specific miRNAs (miR-741-3p, miR-871-3p, miR-880-3p) by analyzing published RNA-seq data of mouse. These miRNA genes are contiguously located on the X chromosome near other miRNA genes. We named them X chromosome-linked miRNAs (XmiRs). To elucidate the functions of XmiRs, we generated knockout mice of these miRNA genes using the CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing system. Although no histological abnormalities were observed in testes of F0 mice in which each miRNA gene was disrupted, a deletion covering miR-871 and miR-880 or covering all XmiRs (ΔXmiRs) resulted in arrested spermatogenesis in meiosis in a few seminiferous tubules, indicating their redundant functions in spermatogenesis. Among candidate targets of XmiRs, we found increased expression of a gene encoding a WNT receptor, FZD4, in ΔXmiRs testis compared with that in wildtype testis. miR-871-3p and miR-880-3p repressed the expression of Fzd4 via the 3′-untranslated region of its mRNA. In addition, downstream genes of the WNT/β-catenin pathway were upregulated in ΔXmiRs testis. We also found that miR-871, miR-880, and Fzd4 were expressed in spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids, and overexpression of miR-871 and miR-880 in germ stem cells in culture repressed their increase in number and Fzd4 expression. Previous studies indicated that the WNT/β-catenin pathway enhances and represses proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonia, respectively, and our results consistently showed that stable β-catenin enhanced GSC number. In addition, stable β-catenin partially rescued reduced GSC number by overexpression of miR-871 and miR-880. The results together suggest that miR-871 and miR-880 cooperatively regulate the WNT/β-catenin pathway during testicular germ cell development.
Collapse
|
36
|
Beneficial treatment effects of dietary nitrate supplementation on testicular injury in streptozotocin-induced diabetic male rats. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 39:357-371. [PMID: 30952494 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Do low doses of dietary nitrate help to attenuate the progression of diabetic reproductive disorders in streptozotocin-induced diabetic male rats? DESIGN Fifty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: controls receiving distilled water; controls receiving 100 mg/l nitrate in distilled water; diabetic rats receiving distilled water; diabetic rats receiving insulin 2-4 U/day of neutral protamine hagedorn insulin; and diabetic rats receiving 100 mg/l nitrate in distilled water. Diabetes was induced by 45 mg/kg streptozotocin. Nitrate and insulin treatment were started 4 weeks after diabetes induction for 8 weeks. Serum insulin, nitrogen oxide, stereology of testis, apoptosis, sperm parameters, and mRNA expression of Pdcd4, Pacs2, p53 and miR-449a were assessed at the end of the study. RESULTS Blood glucose, apoptotic index of seminiferous tubules and expression of p53, Pdcd4, and Pacs2 mRNA were significantly higher in the diabetic rats (P < 0.001). Decreased body weight, serum insulin and nitrogen oxide level, and miR-449a were observed in the diabetic group (P < 0.01 for insulin; P < 0.001 for others). Most sperm parameters and stereological results differed between diabetic and control rats; nitrate recovered almost all these alterations, including dead spermatozoa, sperm motility grade, sperm deformity index, spermatozoa with damaged DNA, malformations in abnormal spermatozoa, total volume of seminiferous tubule, germinal epithelium, capsule, lumen, interstitial tissue, seminiferous tubule diameter, germinal epithelium height, the number of spermatogenic, Sertoli and Leydig cells. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with sodium nitrate could modulate apoptosis, which is a major cause of diabetic testicular disorder. These experiments suggest that nitric oxide plays an important role in the function of the reproductive system.
Collapse
|
37
|
Ge S, Zhao P, Liu X, Zhao Z, Liu M. Necessity to Evaluate Epigenetic Quality of the Sperm for Assisted Reproductive Technology. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:315-322. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719118808907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shaoqin Ge
- Hebei University Health Science Center, Baoding, China
- The Institute for Reproductive Medicine of Hebei University, Baoding, China
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine of Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Penghui Zhao
- Hebei University Health Science Center, Baoding, China
| | - Xuanchen Liu
- Hebei University Health Science Center, Baoding, China
| | - Zhenghui Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Meiyun Liu
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine of Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Huang Z, Tang D, Gao J, Dou X, Cheng P, Peng D, Zhang Y, Mao J, Zhang L, Zhang X. miR-34c disrupts spermatogonial stem cell homeostasis in cryptorchid testes by targeting Nanos2. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:97. [PMID: 30322389 PMCID: PMC6190564 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0417-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptorchidism as a common genitourinary malformation with the serious complication of male infertility draws widespread attention. With several reported miRNAs playing critical roles in spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), we aimed to explore the fundamental function of the highly conserved miR-34c in cryptorchidism. METHODS To explore whether miR-34c participates in spermatogenesis by regulating Nanos2, we examined the effect of overexpression and inhibition for miR-34c on Nanos2 expression in GC-1 cells. Moreover, the expression levels of miR-34c and Nanos2 with cryptorchidism in humans and mice were examined. Furthermore, the homeostasis of SSCs was evaluated through counting the number of promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (PLZF) positive spermatogonia in murine cryptorchid testes. RESULTS In the present study, we show that miR-34c could inhibit the expression of Nanos2 in GC-1 cells. Meanwhile, miR-34c significantly decreased in both the testicular tissues of patients with cryptorchidism and surgery-induced murine model of cryptorchidism. Western blot revealed that the protein level of Nanos2 was up-regulated and showed to be negatively correlated to the expression of miR-34c in our model. The abnormal expression of miR-34c/Nanos2 disrupted the balance between SSC self-renewal and differentiation, eventually damaging the spermatogenesis of cryptorchid testes. CONCLUSIONS The miR-34c/Nanos2 pathway provides new insight into the mechanism of male infertility caused by cryptorchidism. Our results indicate that miR-34c may serve as a biological marker for treatment of infertility caused by cryptorchidism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Huang
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022 China
| | - Dongdong Tang
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fReproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022 China
- 0000 0000 9490 772Xgrid.186775.aAnhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032 China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, 230022 China
| | - Jingjing Gao
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022 China
| | - Xianming Dou
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022 China
| | - Peng Cheng
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022 China
| | - Dangwei Peng
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022 China
| | - Yao Zhang
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022 China
| | - Jun Mao
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022 China
| | - Li Zhang
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022 China
| | - Xiansheng Zhang
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022 China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Zhou M, Jia X, Wan H, Wang S, Zhang X, Zhang Z, Wang Y. miR-34 regulates reproduction by inhibiting the expression of MIH, CHH, EcR, and FAMeT genes in mud crab Scylla paramamosain. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 86:122-131. [PMID: 30286264 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mud crab Scylla paramamosain is a commercially important species widely cultured in China. It is well known that the eyestalk regulates reproductive activities in crustaceans. In our previous research, we found that the miR-34 expression level in male eyestalk was significantly higher than that in females. Thus, we assumed that it may play an important role in regulating reproduction. In this study, we used bioinformatic tools to identify the target genes of miR-34 in eyestalk. Six reproduction-related genes with an intact 3'-untranslated region (UTR), including molt-inhibiting hormone (MIH), crustacean hyperglycemic hormone (CHH), vitellogenesis-inhibiting hormone, red pigment concentrating hormone, ecdysone receptor (EcR), and farnesoic acid methyltransferase (FAMeT) were identified. When the 3'-UTR plasmid vectors of the six genes were cotransfected with miR-34 mimics into 293FT cells, respectively, the luciferase activities of four genes (MIH, CHH, EcR, and FAMeT) were significantly decreased compared with that in the control group; on the contrary, when the six plasmid vectors were cotransfected with the miR-34 inhibitor respectively, the luciferase activities of four genes (MIH, CHH, EcR, and FAMeT) were significantly higher than that in the control group. When agomiR-34 and antagomiR-34 were injected into the eyestalk respectively in vivo, the expression levels of the MIH, CHH, EcR, and FAMeT genes were detected by a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that agomiR-34 suppressed the expression of the four genes, whereas antagomiR-34 enhanced their expression. These experimental results confirmed our hypothesis that miR-34 may indirectly regulate reproduction via binding to the 3'-UTRs of MIH, CHH, EcR, and FAMeT genes and suppressing their expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingcan Zhou
- Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xiwei Jia
- Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen, China
| | - Haifu Wan
- Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen, China
| | - Shuhong Wang
- Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- College of Animal Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ziping Zhang
- College of Animal Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yilei Wang
- Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhao J, Zhao J, Xu G, Wang Z, Gao J, Cui S, Liu J. Deletion of Spata2 by CRISPR/Cas9n causes increased inhibin alpha expression and attenuated fertility in male mice. Biol Reprod 2018; 97:497-513. [PMID: 29025062 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
As somatic cells in the testis seminiferous tubule, Sertoli cells provide the medium for spermatogenesis. One of the important functions of Sertoli cells is synthesizing and secreting cell factors to affect the production of sperm; however, much of those molecular regulation mechanisms remain unknown. Here, we confirm the localization of protein SPATA2 (spermatogenesis-associated protein 2), which had previously been shown to be highly expressed in Sertoli cells of the adult mouse testis. To further conduct a functional study, we generated SPATA2 global knockout mice via use of the CRISPR/Cas9n gene editing technology. The 120-day-old knockout mice testes showed almost a 40% decrease in size and weight and variations in the histomorphology of the seminiferous epithelium, with a 40% decrease in sperm count. Further examination revealed that the proliferation of germ cells in the seminiferous tubules was attenuated by 28%. In addition, we found that SPATA2 deletion led to an approximately 70% increase in the inhibin alpha-subunit mRNA and protein level in the testes compared to that of wild-type mice. Our data revealed the impact of SPATA2 on male fertility and suggested that SPATA2 ensures the normal secretory function of Sertoli cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianjun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guojin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhijuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Sheng Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiali Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Wang H, Zhong J, Chai Z, Zhu J, Xin J. Comparative expression profile of microRNAs and piRNAs in three ruminant species testes using next-generation sequencing. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53:963-970. [PMID: 29752750 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
microRNA (miRNA) and piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA) are two classes small non-coding regulatory RNAs that play crucial roles in multiple biological processes such as spermatogenesis. However, there are no published studies on conjoint analysis of miRNA and piRNA profiles among cattle, yak and their interspecies (the dzo) using sequencing technology. Next-generation sequencing technology was used to profile miRNAs and piRNAs among those three ruminants to elucidate their functions. A total of 119, 14 and six differentially expressed miRNAs were obtained in cattle vs. dzo, cattle vs. yak and yak vs. dzo comparison groups, while there were 873, 1,065 and 1,158 differentially expressed piRNAs in those three comparison groups. The expression of three miRNAs was validated in the three ruminants, and the results suggested that the miRNA expression profiles data could represent actual miRNA expression levels. Moreover, the putative targets of differentially expressed miRNAs were predicted by their own genome, it is worth to note that both the cattle and yak genome were used for dzo, then the targets were subjected to GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis, revealing the likely roles for these differentially expressed miRNAs in spermatogenesis. In conclusion, this study provided a useful resource for further elucidation of the miRNAs and piRNAs regulatory roles in spermatogenesis. It may also facilitate the development of therapeutic strategies for dzo reproduction research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding, State Ethnic Affairs Commission and Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - J Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding, State Ethnic Affairs Commission and Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Z Chai
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding, State Ethnic Affairs Commission and Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - J Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding, State Ethnic Affairs Commission and Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - J Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Barley and Yak Germplasm Resources and Genetic Improvement, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Sciences, Lhasa, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
He Y, Zhang Y, Li H, Zhang H, Li Z, Xiao L, Hu J, Ma Y, Zhang Q, Zhao X. Comparative Profiling of MicroRNAs Reveals the Underlying Toxicological Mechanism in Mice Testis Following Carbon Ion Radiation. Dose Response 2018; 16:1559325818778633. [PMID: 29977176 PMCID: PMC6024298 DOI: 10.1177/1559325818778633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the toxicity of heavy ion radiation to mice testis by microRNA (miRNA) sequencing and bioinformatics analyses. Testicular indices and histology were measured following enterocoelia irradiation with a 2 Gy carbon ion beam, with the testes exhibiting the most serious injuries at 4 weeks after carbon ion radiation (CIR) exposure. Illumina sequencing technology was used to sequence small RNA libraries of the control and irradiated groups at 4 weeks after CIR. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses implicated differential miRNAs in the regulation of target genes involved in metabolism, development, and reproduction. Here, 8 miRNAs, including miR-34c-5p, miR-138, and 6 let-7 miRNA family members previously reported in testis after radiation, were analyzed by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to validate miRNA sequencing data. The differentially expressed miRNAs described here provided a novel perspective for the role of miRNAs in testis toxicity following CIR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zongshuai Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Longfei Xiao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Junjie Hu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Youji Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Quanwei Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xingxu Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Tang L, Zhao B, Zhang H, Du Q, Zhu J, Zhao Z, Chen C, Luo C, Kang Q, Yuan W, Bian S, Bi H, Sun H, Li Y. Regulation of nonylphenol-induced reproductive toxicity in mouse spermatogonia cells by miR-361-3p. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:1257-1270. [PMID: 29024157 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Liyan Tang
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| | - Bo Zhao
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| | - Qiao Du
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| | - Jiang Zhu
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| | - Zhijiang Zhao
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| | - Ce Chen
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| | - Cheng Luo
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| | - Qiyuan Kang
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| | - Wenbing Yuan
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| | - Shaohua Bian
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| | - Hang Bi
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| | - Huimin Sun
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital; the Fourth Military Medical University; Xi'an Shananxi China
| | - Yingyi Li
- Department of Urology; Baoji People's Hospital; Baoji Shananxi China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Ning JZ, Li W, Cheng F, Yu WM, Rao T, Ruan Y, Yuan R, Zhang XB, Zhuo D, Du Y, Xiao CC. MiR-29a Suppresses Spermatogenic Cell Apoptosis in Testicular Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury by Targeting TRPV4 Channels. Front Physiol 2017; 8:966. [PMID: 29238305 PMCID: PMC5712590 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as gene expression regulators in the progression of ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Accumulating evidences have indicated miR-29a play roles in myocardial and cerebral IRI. However, the role of miR-29a in testicular IRI has not been elucidated. Methods: Changes in expression of miR-29a and Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) in animal samples and GC-1 spermatogenic cells were examined. The effects of miR-29a on spermatogenic cell apoptosis in testicular IRI were analyzed both in vitro and in vivo. Results: The expression of MiR-29a was negatively correlated with the expression of TRPV4 and significantly downregulated in animal samples and GC-1 cells as testicular IRI progressed. Further studies revealed TRPV4 as a downstream target of miR-29a. Inhibition of miR-29a expression increased the expression of TRPV4 and promoted spermatogenic cell apoptosis, whereas overexpression of miR-29a downregulated TRPV4 expression and suppressed spermatogenic cell apoptosis caused by testicular IRI in vitro and in vivo. Conclusion: Our results suggest that miR-29a suppresses apoptosis induced by testicular IRI by directly targeting TRPV4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Zhuo Ning
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Fan Cheng
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei-Min Yu
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ting Rao
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan Ruan
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Run Yuan
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao-Bin Zhang
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dong Zhuo
- Department of Urology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Yang Du
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Cheng-Cheng Xiao
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Guan Y, Martin GB. Cellular and molecular responses of adult testis to changes in nutrition: novel insights from the sheep model. Reproduction 2017; 154:R133-R141. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 08/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
This review explores the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate spermatogenesis in the post-pubertal testis that is regressing in response to mild undernutrition, using the sexually mature male sheep as a model. Testis regression leads to reductions in daily sperm production and in the quality of ejaculated spermatozoa (poorer movement, DNA damage). There is also a reduction in spermatogenic efficiency that appears to be caused, at least partially, by increases in germ cell apoptosis. Sertoli cell number does not change with testis regression, although about 1% of Sertoli cells do appear to retain proliferative ability after puberty. On the other hand, Sertoli cell function is disrupted during testis regression, as evidenced by a disorganization of tight junctions and indications that cell differentiation and maturation are reversed. Disrupted Sertoli cell function can explain, at least partially, the increase in germ cell apoptosis and any decrease in the rate of spermatogenesis, the two major contributors to spermatogenic efficiency. These outcomes seem to be mediated by changes in two RNA-based processes: (i) the expression of small non-coding RNAs that are involved in the regulation of Sertoli cell function, spermatogenesis and germ cell apoptosis and (ii) alternative pre-mRNA splicing that affects the regulation of spermatogenesis but does not appear to affect germ cell apoptosis, at least during testis progression induced by undernutrition in the male sheep. These research outcomes can be extended to other animal models and are relevant to issues in human male fertility.
Collapse
|
46
|
Hao Q, Zhao X, Zhang Y, Dong Z, Hu T, Chen P. Targeting Overexpressed Activating Transcription Factor 1 (ATF1) Inhibits Proliferation and Migration and Enhances Sensitivity to Paclitaxel In Esophageal Cancer Cells. Med Sci Monit Basic Res 2017; 23:304-312. [PMID: 28912415 PMCID: PMC5612263 DOI: 10.12659/msmbr.906289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous reports showed that Activating Transcription Factor 1 (ATF1) plays an important role in tumor progression in a tumor-specific manner. However, little is known about the expression and role of ATF1 in esophageal cancer. Material/Methods The expression of ATF1 was examined by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. The correlation between the expression of ATF1 and clinical characteristics of esophageal squamous cell carcinomas (ESCC) patients was analyzed by Fisher’s exact test. The role of cell proliferation, clonogenic survival, migration, and invasion in vitro, as well as the sensitization to paclitaxel, were determined after knockdown of ATF1 by siRNA. Results ATF1 was overexpressed in ESCC tissues, which was positively correlated with lymph node metastasis, poor differentiation, and early tumor invasion of esophageal cancer patients. Knockdown of ATF1 effectively reduced cell proliferation, induced S phase cell cycle arrest, and inhibited cell migration and invasion. Moreover, silencing of ATF1 significantly enhanced the sensitivity of esophageal cancer cells to paclitaxel. Conclusions These findings suggest that ATF1 is a promising drug target for esophageal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qianyun Hao
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University; Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, Henan, China (mainland)
| | - Xuesong Zhao
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University; Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, Henan, China (mainland)
| | - Yi Zhang
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University; Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, Henan, China (mainland)
| | - Ziming Dong
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University; Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, Henan, China (mainland)
| | - Tao Hu
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University; Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, Henan, China (mainland)
| | - Ping Chen
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University; Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, Henan, China (mainland)
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Hilz S, Modzelewski AJ, Cohen PE, Grimson A. The roles of microRNAs and siRNAs in mammalian spermatogenesis. Development 2017; 143:3061-73. [PMID: 27578177 PMCID: PMC5047671 DOI: 10.1242/dev.136721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs and siRNAs, both of which are AGO-bound small RNAs, are essential for mammalian spermatogenesis. Although their precise germline roles remain largely uncharacterized, recent discoveries suggest that they function in mechanisms beyond microRNA-mediated post-transcriptional control, playing roles in DNA repair and transcriptional regulation within the nucleus. Here, we discuss the latest findings regarding roles for AGO proteins and their associated small RNAs in the male germline. We integrate genetic, clinical and genomics data, and draw upon findings from non-mammalian models, to examine potential roles for AGO-bound small RNAs during spermatogenesis. Finally, we evaluate the emerging and differing roles for AGOs and AGO-bound small RNAs in the male and female germlines, suggesting potential reasons for these sexual dimorphisms. Summary: This Review article summarizes the latest findings regarding roles for AGO proteins and their associated small RNAs in the male germline, with a particular focus on spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Hilz
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Andrew J Modzelewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Paula E Cohen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Andrew Grimson
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Weng B, Ran M, Chen B, Wu M, Peng F, Dong L, He C, Zhang S, Li Z. Systematic identification and characterization of miRNAs and piRNAs from porcine testes. Genes Genomics 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s13258-017-0573-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
49
|
Gai Y, Zhang J, Wei C, Cao W, Cui Y, Cui S. miR-375 negatively regulates the synthesis and secretion of catecholamines by targeting Sp1 in rat adrenal medulla. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2017; 312:C663-C672. [PMID: 28356269 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00345.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The adrenal gland is an important endocrine gland in balancing homeostasis and the response to stress by synthesizing and secreting catecholamines (CATs), and it has been confirmed that microRNA-375 (miR-375) is highly expressed in adrenal medulla. However, up to now there are few reports about the functions and related mechanisms in adrenal medulla. The present study was thus designed to study the roles and related mechanisms in rat adrenal medulla. Our results showed that miR-375 was specifically expressed in rat adrenal medulla chromaffin cells, and its expression was downregulated when rats were exposed to stress. The further functional studies demonstrated that the inhibition of endogenous miR-375 induced the secretion of CATs in primary rat medulla chromaffin cells and PC12 cells, whereas miR-375 overexpression resulted in a decline of CAT secretion. In addition, our results showed that miR-375 negatively regulated tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and dopamine-β-hydroxylase (DBH) and mediated adrenomedullary CAT biosynthesis. These functions of miR-375 were accomplished by its binding to the 3'-untranslated region of Sp1, which was involved in the regulation of TH and DBH expressions. These novel findings suggest that miR-375 acts as a potent negative mediator in regulating the synthesis and secretion of CATs in the adrenal medulla during the maintenance of homeostasis under stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yedan Gai
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; and
| | - Jinglin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; and
| | - Chao Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; and
| | - Wei Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; and
| | - Yan Cui
- The 306th Hospital of People's Liberation Army, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Sheng Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; and
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Wang M, Liu C, Su Y, Zhang K, Zhang Y, Chen M, Ge M, Gu L, Lu T, Li N, Yu Z, Meng Q. miRNA-34c inhibits myoblasts proliferation by targeting YY1. Cell Cycle 2017; 16:1661-1672. [PMID: 28125315 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2017.1281479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
miRNAs are increasingly being implicated as key regulators of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation. miRNA-34c appears to play a crucial role in cancer pathogenesis wherein it exerts its effect as a tumor suppressor. However, the role of miR-34c in myoblast proliferation remains poorly understood. Here, we found that overexpression miR-34c inhibited myoblasts proliferation by reducing the protein and mRNA expression of cell cycle genes. In contrast, blocking the function of miR-34c promoted myoblasts proliferation and increased the protein and mRNA expression of cell cycle genes. Moreover, miR-34c directly targeted YY1 and inhibited its expression. Similar to overexpression miR-34c, knockdown of YY1 by siRNA suppressed myoblasts proliferation. Our study provides novel evidence for a role of miR-34c in inhibiting myoblasts proliferation by repressing YY1. Thus, miR-34c has the potential to be used to enhance skeletal muscle development and regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- a The State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University , Beijing , China
| | - Chuncheng Liu
- a The State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University , Beijing , China
| | - Yang Su
- a The State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University , Beijing , China
| | - Kuo Zhang
- a The State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University , Beijing , China
| | - Yuying Zhang
- a The State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University , Beijing , China
| | - Min Chen
- a The State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University , Beijing , China
| | - Mengxu Ge
- a The State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University , Beijing , China
| | - Lijie Gu
- a The State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University , Beijing , China
| | - Tianyu Lu
- a The State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University , Beijing , China
| | - Ning Li
- a The State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University , Beijing , China
| | - Zhengquan Yu
- a The State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University , Beijing , China
| | - Qingyong Meng
- a The State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University , Beijing , China
| |
Collapse
|