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Gao Y, Wang Z, Long Y, Yang L, Jiang Y, Ding D, Teng B, Chen M, Yuan J, Gao F. Unveiling the roles of Sertoli cells lineage differentiation in reproductive development and disorders: a review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1357594. [PMID: 38699384 PMCID: PMC11063913 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1357594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In mammals, gonadal somatic cell lineage differentiation determines the development of the bipotential gonad into either the ovary or testis. Sertoli cells, the only somatic cells in the spermatogenic tubules, support spermatogenesis during gonadal development. During embryonic Sertoli cell lineage differentiation, relevant genes, including WT1, GATA4, SRY, SOX9, AMH, PTGDS, SF1, and DMRT1, are expressed at specific times and in specific locations to ensure the correct differentiation of the embryo toward the male phenotype. The dysregulated development of Sertoli cells leads to gonadal malformations and male fertility disorders. Nevertheless, the molecular pathways underlying the embryonic origin of Sertoli cells remain elusive. By reviewing recent advances in research on embryonic Sertoli cell genesis and its key regulators, this review provides novel insights into sex determination in male mammals as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying the genealogical differentiation of Sertoli cells in the male reproductive ridge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Gao
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Zican Wang
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Yue Long
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Lici Yang
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Yongjian Jiang
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Dongyu Ding
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Baojian Teng
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Min Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jinxiang Yuan
- The Collaborative Innovation Center, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
- Lin He’s Academician Workstation of New Medicine and Clinical Translation, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- The Collaborative Innovation Center, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
- Lin He’s Academician Workstation of New Medicine and Clinical Translation, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
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2
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Ayers KL, Eggers S, Rollo BN, Smith KR, Davidson NM, Siddall NA, Zhao L, Bowles J, Weiss K, Zanni G, Burglen L, Ben-Shachar S, Rosensaft J, Raas-Rothschild A, Jørgensen A, Schittenhelm RB, Huang C, Robevska G, van den Bergen J, Casagranda F, Cyza J, Pachernegg S, Wright DK, Bahlo M, Oshlack A, O'Brien TJ, Kwan P, Koopman P, Hime GR, Girard N, Hoffmann C, Shilon Y, Zung A, Bertini E, Milh M, Ben Rhouma B, Belguith N, Bashamboo A, McElreavey K, Banne E, Weintrob N, BenZeev B, Sinclair AH. Variants in SART3 cause a spliceosomopathy characterised by failure of testis development and neuronal defects. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3403. [PMID: 37296101 PMCID: PMC10256788 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39040-0] [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: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinoma antigen recognized by T cells 3 (SART3) is an RNA-binding protein with numerous biological functions including recycling small nuclear RNAs to the spliceosome. Here, we identify recessive variants in SART3 in nine individuals presenting with intellectual disability, global developmental delay and a subset of brain anomalies, together with gonadal dysgenesis in 46,XY individuals. Knockdown of the Drosophila orthologue of SART3 reveals a conserved role in testicular and neuronal development. Human induced pluripotent stem cells carrying patient variants in SART3 show disruption to multiple signalling pathways, upregulation of spliceosome components and demonstrate aberrant gonadal and neuronal differentiation in vitro. Collectively, these findings suggest that bi-allelic SART3 variants underlie a spliceosomopathy which we tentatively propose be termed INDYGON syndrome (Intellectual disability, Neurodevelopmental defects and Developmental delay with 46,XY GONadal dysgenesis). Our findings will enable additional diagnoses and improved outcomes for individuals born with this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie L Ayers
- The Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Stefanie Eggers
- The Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ben N Rollo
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Alfred Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Katherine R Smith
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nadia M Davidson
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
- School of BioSciences, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nicole A Siddall
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Liang Zhao
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Josephine Bowles
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Karin Weiss
- Genetics Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ginevra Zanni
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders and Unit of Developmental Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Lydie Burglen
- Centre de Référence des Malformations et Maladies Congénitales du Cervelet, Et Laboratoire de Neurogénétique Moléculaire, Département de Génétique et Embryologie Médicale, APHP. Sorbonne Université, Hôpital Trousseau, Paris, France
- Developmental Brain Disorders Laboratory, Imagine Institute, INSERM UMR 1163, Paris, France
| | - Shay Ben-Shachar
- Genetic Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Jenny Rosensaft
- Genetics Institute, Kaplan Medical Center, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| | - Annick Raas-Rothschild
- Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ralf B Schittenhelm
- Monash Proteomics and Metabolomics Facility, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Cheng Huang
- Monash Proteomics and Metabolomics Facility, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | | | | | - Franca Casagranda
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Justyna Cyza
- The Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Svenja Pachernegg
- The Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David K Wright
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Alfred Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Melanie Bahlo
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alicia Oshlack
- The Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Terrence J O'Brien
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Alfred Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Patrick Kwan
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Alfred Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter Koopman
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Gary R Hime
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nadine Girard
- Aix-Marseille Université, APHM. Department of Pediatric Neurology, Timone Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Chen Hoffmann
- Radiology Department, Sheba medical Centre, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yuval Shilon
- Kaplan Medical Center, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| | - Amnon Zung
- Pediatrics Department, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Enrico Bertini
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders and Unit of Developmental Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Mathieu Milh
- Aix-Marseille Université, APHM. Department of Pediatric Neurology, Timone Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Bochra Ben Rhouma
- Higher Institute of Nursing Sciences of Gabes, University of Gabes, Gabes, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Human Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, Sfax University, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Neila Belguith
- Laboratory of Human Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, Sfax University, Sfax, Tunisia
- Department of Congenital and Hereditary Diseases, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Anu Bashamboo
- Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, CNRS UMR3738, Human Developmental Genetics, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Kenneth McElreavey
- Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, CNRS UMR3738, Human Developmental Genetics, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Ehud Banne
- Genetics Institute, Kaplan Medical Center, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
- The Rina Mor Genetic Institute, Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, 58100, Israel
| | - Naomi Weintrob
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Andrew H Sinclair
- The Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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3
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Bird AD, Frost ER, Bagheri-Fam S, Croft BM, Ryan JM, Zhao L, Koopman P, Harley VR. Somatic FGFR2 is Required for Germ Cell Maintenance in the Mouse Ovary. Endocrinology 2023; 164:7036407. [PMID: 36786658 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
During sex determination in the mouse, fibroblast growth factor 9 signals through the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2c isoform (FGFR2c) to trigger Sertoli cell and testis development from 11.5 days post coitum (dpc). In the XX gonad, the FOXL2 and WNT4/RSPO1 pathways drive granulosa cell and ovarian development. The function of FGFR2 in the developing ovary, and whether FGFR2 is required in the testis after sex determination, is not clear. In fetal mouse gonads from 12.5 dpc, FGFR2 shows sexually dimorphic expression. In XX gonads, FGFR2c is coexpressed with FOXL2 in pregranulosa cells, whereas XY gonads show FGFR2b expression in germ cells. Deletion of Fgfr2c in XX mice led to a marked decrease/absence of germ cells by 13.5 dpc in the ovary. This indicates that FGFR2c in the somatic pregranulosa cells is required for the maintenance of germ cells. Surprisingly, on the Fgfr2c-/- background, the germ cell phenotype could be rescued by ablation of Foxl2, suggesting a novel mechanism whereby FGFR2 and FOXL2 act antagonistically during germ cell development. Consistent with low/absent FGFR2 expression in the Sertoli cells of 12.5 and 13.5 dpc XY gonads, XY AMH:Cre; Fgfr2flox/flox mice showed normal testis morphology and structures during fetal development and in adulthood. Thus, FGFR2 is not essential for maintaining Sertoli cell fate after sex determination. Combined, these data show that FGFR2 is not necessary for Sertoli cell function after sex determination but does play an important role in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony D Bird
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, Australia
- Sex Development Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, 3168, Australia
| | - Emily R Frost
- Sex Development Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Stefan Bagheri-Fam
- Sex Development Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Brittany M Croft
- Sex Development Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Janelle M Ryan
- Sex Development Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Liang Zhao
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072, Australia
| | - Peter Koopman
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072, Australia
| | - Vincent R Harley
- Sex Development Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
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4
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Ornitz DM, Itoh N. New developments in the biology of fibroblast growth factors. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1549. [PMID: 35142107 PMCID: PMC10115509 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family is composed of 18 secreted signaling proteins consisting of canonical FGFs and endocrine FGFs that activate four receptor tyrosine kinases (FGFRs 1-4) and four intracellular proteins (intracellular FGFs or iFGFs) that primarily function to regulate the activity of voltage-gated sodium channels and other molecules. The canonical FGFs, endocrine FGFs, and iFGFs have been reviewed extensively by us and others. In this review, we briefly summarize past reviews and then focus on new developments in the FGF field since our last review in 2015. Some of the highlights in the past 6 years include the use of optogenetic tools, viral vectors, and inducible transgenes to experimentally modulate FGF signaling, the clinical use of small molecule FGFR inhibitors, an expanded understanding of endocrine FGF signaling, functions for FGF signaling in stem cell pluripotency and differentiation, roles for FGF signaling in tissue homeostasis and regeneration, a continuing elaboration of mechanisms of FGF signaling in development, and an expanding appreciation of roles for FGF signaling in neuropsychiatric diseases. This article is categorized under: Cardiovascular Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Neurological Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Congenital Diseases > Stem Cells and Development Cancer > Stem Cells and Development.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Ornitz
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Nobuyuki Itoh
- Kyoto University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sakyo, Kyoto, Japan
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5
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Mammalian X-chromosome inactivation: proposed role in suppression of the male programme in genetic females. J Genet 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12041-022-01363-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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6
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Gómez-Redondo I, Planells B, Navarrete P, Gutiérrez-Adán A. Role of Alternative Splicing in Sex Determination in Vertebrates. Sex Dev 2021; 15:381-391. [PMID: 34583366 DOI: 10.1159/000519218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During the process of sex determination, a germ-cell-containing undifferentiated gonad is converted into either a male or a female reproductive organ. Both the composition of sex chromosomes and the environment determine sex in vertebrates. It is assumed that transcription level regulation drives this cascade of mechanisms; however, transcription factors can alter gene expression beyond transcription initiation by controlling pre-mRNA splicing and thereby mRNA isoform production. Using the key time window in sex determination and gonad development in mice, it has been reported that new non-transcriptional events, such as alternative splicing, could play a key role in sex determination in mammals. We know the role of key regulatory factors, like WT1(+/-KTS) or FGFR2(b/c) in pre-mRNA splicing and sex determination, indicating that important steps in the vertebrate sex determination process probably operate at a post-transcriptional level. Here, we discuss the role of pre-mRNA splicing regulators in sex determination in vertebrates, focusing on the new RNA-seq data reported from mice fetal gonadal transcriptome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamín Planells
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA, Madrid, Spain.,School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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7
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Huang K, Wang Y, Zhu J, Xiong Y, Lin Y. Regulation of fibroblast growth factor 9 on the differentiation of goat intramuscular adipocytes. Anim Sci J 2021; 92:e13627. [PMID: 34477270 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
It has been found that fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGF-FGFR) signaling can regulate the expression of adipocyte differentiation genes. FGF9 is one of the members of FGFs that mainly binds receptors FGFR2 and FGFR3. FGF9 is highly expressed in the adipose tissue of humans and mice, but there are few reports on the role of FGF9 in goat intramuscular adipocyte differentiation. Therefore, this study explored the effect of FGF9 on adipocyte differentiation through cell culture, interference, and overexpression. The expression of receptors FGFR1-FGFR4 in adipocyte differentiation and their effects on differentiation were detected to screen receptor gene of FGF9. Finally, the interaction between FGF9 and the receptor was tested by cotransfection. Our results showed that FGF9 interacts with FGFR2 to inhibit goat intramuscular adipocyte differentiation by regulating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and preadipocyte factor 1 (Pref1), which is a data support for subsequent pathway research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Huang
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization of Education Ministry, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China.,Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization of Sichuan Province, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization of Education Ministry, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China.,Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization of Sichuan Province, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiangjiang Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization of Education Ministry, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China.,Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization of Sichuan Province, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization of Education Ministry, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China.,Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization of Sichuan Province, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yaqiu Lin
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization of Education Ministry, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China.,Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization of Sichuan Province, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
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8
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Li YH, Chen TM, Huang BM, Yang SH, Wu CC, Lin YM, Chuang JI, Tsai SJ, Sun HS. FGF9 is a downstream target of SRY and sufficient to determine male sex fate in ex vivo XX gonad culture. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:1300-1313. [PMID: 32886743 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) is an autocrine/paracrine growth factor that plays critical roles in embryonic and organ developments and is involved in diverse physiological events. Loss of function of FGF9 exhibits male-to-female sex reversal in the transgenic mouse model and gain of FGF9 copy number was found in human 46, XX sex reversal patient with disorders of sex development. These results suggested that FGF9 plays a vital role in male sex development. Nevertheless, how FGF9/Fgf9 expression is regulated during testis determination remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that human and mouse SRY bind to -833 to -821 of human FGF9 and -1010 to -998 of mouse Fgf9, respectively, and control FGF9/Fgf9 mRNA expression. Interestingly, we showed that mouse SRY cooperates with SF1 to regulate Fgf9 expression, whereas human SRY-mediated FGF9 expression is SF1 independent. Furthermore, using an ex vivo gonadal culture system, we showed that FGF9 expression is sufficient to switch cell fate from female to male sex development in 12-16 tail somite XX mouse gonads. Taken together, our findings provide evidence to support the SRY-dependent, fate-determining role of FGF9 in male sex development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Han Li
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Ming Chen
- Department and Graduate Institute of Aquaculture, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Bu-Miin Huang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Hsun Yang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ching Wu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Ming Lin
- Department of Urology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jih-Ing Chuang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shaw-Jenq Tsai
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - H Sunny Sun
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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9
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Gammerdinger WJ, Conte MA, Sandkam BA, Ziegelbecker A, Koblmüller S, Kocher TD. Novel Sex Chromosomes in 3 Cichlid Fishes from Lake Tanganyika. J Hered 2019; 109:489-500. [PMID: 29444291 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esy003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
African cichlids are well known for their adaptive radiations, but it is now apparent that they also harbor an extraordinary diversity of sex chromosome systems. In this study, we sequenced pools of males and females from species in 3 different genera of cichlids from Lake Tanganyika. We then searched for regions that were differentiated following the patterns expected for sex chromosomes. We report 2 novel sex chromosomes systems, an XY system on LG19 in Tropheus sp. "black" and a ZW system on LG7 in Hemibates stenosoma. We also identify a ZW system on LG5 in Cyprichromis leptosoma that may be convergent with a system previously described in Lake Malawi cichlids. Our data also identify candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms for the blue/yellow tail color polymorphism observed among male C. leptosoma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew A Conte
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Stephan Koblmüller
- Institute of Zoology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz, Graz, Austria
| | - Thomas D Kocher
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
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10
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Nagaraja MR, Gubbala SP, Delphine Silvia CRW, Amanchy R. Molecular diagnostics of disorders of sexual development: an Indian survey and systems biology perspective. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 65:105-120. [PMID: 30550360 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1549619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to survey the monogenic causes of disorders of sex development (DSD) and thereby its prevalence in India. This study revealed mutations resulting in androgen insensitivity syndrome, 5α-reductase type 2 deficiency, and gonadal dysgenesis were commonly reported. Intriguingly, AR deficits were the most prevalent (32 mutations) and of 11/26 missense mutations were in exons 4-8 (encoding ligand binding domain). The unique features of SRD5A2 defects were p.R246Q (most prevalent) and p.G196S could be mutational hotspots, dual gene defects (p.A596T in AR and p.G196S in SRD5A2) in a patient with hypospadias and novel 8 nucleotide deletion (exon 1) found in a patient with perineal hypospadias. Deficits in SRY, WT1, DHH, NR5A1, and DMRT1 caused 46,XY gonadal dysgenesis. Notably, mutations in AR, SRD5A2, MAMLD1, WT1, and MAP3K1 have led to hypospadias and only one CYP19A1 mutation caused aromatase deficiency was reported to date. Data mining from various databases has not only reinforced the role of well-established genes (e.g., SRY, WT1, DHH, NR5A1, DMRT1, AR, SRD5A2, MAMLD1) involved in DSD but also provided us 12 more potential candidate genes (ACVR1, AMHR2, CTNNB1, CYP11A1, CYP19A1, FGFR2, FGF9, PRKACA, PRKACG, SMAD9, TERT, ZFPM2), which benefit from a close association with the well-established genes involved in DSD and might be useful to screen owing to their direct gene-phenotype relationship or through direct functional interaction. As more genes have been revealed in relation to DSD, we believe ultimately it holds a better scenario for therapeutic regimen. Despite the advances in translational medicine, hospitals are yet to adopt genetic testing and counseling facilities in India that shall have potential impact on clinical diagnosis. Abbreviations: 5α-RD2: 5α-Reductase type 2; AIS: androgen insensitivity syndrome; AMH: antimullerian hormone; AMHR: antimullerian hormone receptor; AR: androgen receptor gene; CAH: congenital adrenal hyperplasia; CAIS: complete AIS; CAH: congenital adrenal hyperplasia; CHH: congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism; CXORF6: chromosome X open reading frame 6 gene; CYP19A1: cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1 gene; DHT: dihydrotestosterone; DMRT1: double sex and mab-3 related transcription factor 1 gene; DSD: disorders of sexual development; GD: gonadal dysgenesis; HGMD: human gene mutation database; IH: isolated hypospadias; MAMLD1: mastermind like domain containing 1 gene; MIS: mullerian inhibiting substance; NTD: N-terminal domain; OT DSD: ovotesticular DSD; PAIS: partial AIS; SOX9: SRY-related HMG-box 9 gene; SRY: sex-determining region Y gene; STAR: steroidogenic acute regulatory protein gene; SRD5A2: steroid 5 alpha-reductase 2 gene; T DSD: testicular DSD; T: testosterone; WNT4: Wnt family member 4 gene; WT1: Wilms tumor 1 gene; Δ4: androstenedione.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Nagaraja
- a Department of Biochemistry , Akash Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre , Bangalore , India
| | - Satya Prakash Gubbala
- b Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology , CSIR- Indian Institute of Chemical Technology , Hyderabad , India
| | - C R Wilma Delphine Silvia
- a Department of Biochemistry , Akash Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre , Bangalore , India
| | - Ramars Amanchy
- b Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology , CSIR- Indian Institute of Chemical Technology , Hyderabad , India
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11
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Bagheri-Fam S, Bird AD, Zhao L, Ryan JM, Yong M, Wilhelm D, Koopman P, Eswarakumar VP, Harley VR. Testis Determination Requires a Specific FGFR2 Isoform to Repress FOXL2. Endocrinology 2017; 158:3832-3843. [PMID: 28938467 PMCID: PMC5695826 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Male sex determination in mammals relies on sex determining region Y-mediated upregulation of sex determining region-box 9 (SOX9) expression in XY gonads, whereas Wnt family member (WNT)/R-spondin 1 signaling and forkhead box L2 (FOXL2) drive female sex determination in XX gonads. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 9 signaling ensures sustained SOX9 expression through repression of one of the ovarian pathways (WNT signaling), whereas the significance of FGF-mediated repression of the FOXL2 pathway has not been studied. Previously, we demonstrated that FGFR2 is the receptor for FGF9 in the XY gonad. Whether a specific isoform (FGFR2b or FGFR2c) is required was puzzling. Here, we show that FGFR2c is required for male sex determination. Initially, in developing mouse embryos at 12.5 to 13.5 days postcoitum (dpc), XY Fgfr2c-/- gonads appear as ovotestes, with SOX9 and FOXL2 expression predominantly localized to the posterior and anterior gonadal poles, respectively. However, by 15.5 dpc, XY Fgfr2c-/- gonads show complete male-to-female sex reversal, evident by the lack of SOX9 and ectopic expression of FOXL2 throughout the gonads. Furthermore, ablation of the Foxl2 gene leads to partial or complete rescue of gonadal sex reversal in XY Fgfr2c-/- mice. Together with previous findings, our data suggest that testis determination involves FGFR2c-mediated repression of both the WNT4- and FOXL2-driven ovarian-determining pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Bagheri-Fam
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Anthony D. Bird
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Liang Zhao
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Janelle M. Ryan
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Meiyun Yong
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Dagmar Wilhelm
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Peter Koopman
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Veraragavan P. Eswarakumar
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520
| | - Vincent R. Harley
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia
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12
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Mishra M, Tiwari S, Gomes AV. Protein purification and analysis: next generation Western blotting techniques. Expert Rev Proteomics 2017; 14:1037-1053. [PMID: 28974114 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2017.1388167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Western blotting is one of the most commonly used techniques in molecular biology and proteomics. Since western blotting is a multistep protocol, variations and errors can occur at any step reducing the reliability and reproducibility of this technique. Recent reports suggest that a few key steps, such as the sample preparation method, the amount and source of primary antibody used, as well as the normalization method utilized, are critical for reproducible western blot results. Areas covered: In this review, improvements in different areas of western blotting, including protein transfer and antibody validation, are summarized. The review discusses the most advanced western blotting techniques available and highlights the relationship between next generation western blotting techniques and its clinical relevance. Expert commentary: Over the last decade significant improvements have been made in creating more sensitive, automated, and advanced techniques by optimizing various aspects of the western blot protocol. New methods such as single cell-resolution western blot, capillary electrophoresis, DigiWest, automated microfluid western blotting and microchip electrophoresis have all been developed to reduce potential problems associated with the western blotting technique. Innovative developments in instrumentation and increased sensitivity for western blots offer novel possibilities for increasing the clinical implications of western blot.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Mishra
- a Department of Physiology , University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine , Saskatoon , SK , Canada
| | - Shuchita Tiwari
- b Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior , University of California , Davis , CA , USA
| | - Aldrin V Gomes
- b Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior , University of California , Davis , CA , USA.,c Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology , University of California , Davis , CA , USA
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13
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Lai MS, Wang CY, Yang SH, Wu CC, Sun HS, Tsai SJ, Chuang JI, Chen YC, Huang BM. The expression profiles of fibroblast growth factor 9 and its receptors in developing mice testes. Organogenesis 2016; 12:61-77. [PMID: 27078042 DOI: 10.1080/15476278.2016.1171448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
An expressional lack of fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) would cause male-to-female sex reversal in the mouse, implying the essential role of FGF9 in testicular organogenesis and maturation. However, the temporal expression of FGF9 and its receptors during testicular development remains elusive. In this study, immunohistochemistry was used to identify the localization of FGF9 and its receptors at different embryonic and postnatal stages in mice testes. Results showed that FGF9 continuously expressed in the testis during development. FGF9 had highest expression in the interstitial region at 17-18 d post coitum (dpc) and in the spermatocytes, spermatids and Leydig cell on postnatal days (pnd) 35-65. Regarding receptor expression, FGFR1 and FGFR4 were evenly expressed in the whole testis during the embryonic and postnatal stages. However, FGFR2 and FGFR3 were widely expressed during the embryonic testis development with higher FGFR2 expression in seminiferous tubules at 16-18 dpc and higher FGFR3 expression in interstitial region at 17-18 dpc. In postnatal stage, FGFR2 extensively expressed with higher expression at spermatids and Leydig cells on 35-65 pnd and FGFR3 widely expressed in the whole testis. Taken together, these results strongly suggest that FGF9 is correlated with the temporal expression profiles of FGFR2 and FGFR3 and possibly associated with testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Shao Lai
- a Institute of Basic Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China
| | - Chia-Yih Wang
- a Institute of Basic Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China.,b Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy , College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China
| | - Shang-Hsun Yang
- a Institute of Basic Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China.,c Department of Physiology , College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China
| | - Chia-Ching Wu
- a Institute of Basic Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China.,b Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy , College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China
| | - H Sunny Sun
- a Institute of Basic Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China.,d Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China
| | - Shaw-Jenq Tsai
- a Institute of Basic Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China.,c Department of Physiology , College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China
| | - Jih-Ing Chuang
- a Institute of Basic Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China.,c Department of Physiology , College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China
| | - Yung-Chia Chen
- e Department of Anatomy , School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University , Kaohsiung , Taiwan , Republic of China
| | - Bu-Miin Huang
- a Institute of Basic Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China.,b Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy , College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Tainan , Taiwan , Republic of China
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14
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Windley SP, Wilhelm D. Signaling Pathways Involved in Mammalian Sex Determination and Gonad Development. Sex Dev 2016; 9:297-315. [PMID: 26905731 DOI: 10.1159/000444065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of any organ system requires a complex interplay of cellular signals to initiate the differentiation and development of the heterogeneous cell and tissue types required to carry out the organs' functions. In this way, an extracellular stimulus is transmitted to an intracellular target through an array of interacting protein intermediaries, ultimately enabling the target cell to elicit a response. Surprisingly, only a small number of signaling pathways are implicated throughout embryogenesis and are used over and over again. Gonadogenesis is a unique process in that 2 morphologically distinct organs, the testes and ovaries, arise from a common precursor, the bipotential genital ridge. Accordingly, most of the signaling pathways observed throughout embryogenesis also have been shown to be important for mammalian sex determination and gonad development. Here, we review the mechanisms of signal transduction within these pathways and the importance of these pathways throughout mammalian gonad development, mainly concentrating on data obtained in mouse but including other species where appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon P Windley
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
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15
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Parker A, Cross SH, Jackson IJ, Hardisty-Hughes R, Morse S, Nicholson G, Coghill E, Bowl MR, Brown SDM. The goya mouse mutant reveals distinct newly identified roles for MAP3K1 in the development and survival of cochlear sensory hair cells. Dis Model Mech 2015; 8:1555-68. [PMID: 26542706 PMCID: PMC4728324 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.023176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinase, MAP3K1, plays an important role in a number of cellular processes, including epithelial migration during eye organogenesis. In addition, studies in keratinocytes indicate that MAP3K1 signalling through JNK is important for actin stress fibre formation and cell migration. However, MAP3K1 can also act independently of JNK in the regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis. We have identified a mouse mutant, goya, which exhibits the eyes-open-at-birth and microphthalmia phenotypes. In addition, these mice also have hearing loss. The goya mice carry a splice site mutation in the Map3k1 gene. We show that goya and kinase-deficient Map3k1 homozygotes initially develop supernumerary cochlear outer hair cells (OHCs) that subsequently degenerate, and a progressive profound hearing loss is observed by 9 weeks of age. Heterozygote mice also develop supernumerary OHCs, but no cellular degeneration or hearing loss is observed. MAP3K1 is expressed in a number of inner-ear cell types, including outer and inner hair cells, stria vascularis and spiral ganglion. Investigation of targets downstream of MAP3K1 identified an increase in p38 phosphorylation (Thr180/Tyr182) in multiple cochlear tissues. We also show that the extra OHCs do not arise from aberrant control of proliferation via p27KIP1. The identification of the goya mutant reveals a signalling molecule involved with hair-cell development and survival. Mammalian hair cells do not have the ability to regenerate after damage, which can lead to irreversible sensorineural hearing loss. Given the observed goya phenotype, and the many diverse cellular processes that MAP3K1 is known to act upon, further investigation of this model might help to elaborate upon the mechanisms underlying sensory hair cell specification, and pathways important for their survival. In addition, MAP3K1 is revealed as a new candidate gene for human sensorineural hearing loss. Summary: The ENU-derived mouse mutant goya, reveals, for the first time, multiple roles of MAP3K1 in cochlear development and correct auditory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Parker
- MRC Mammalian Genetics Unit, MRC Harwell, Oxford, OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Sally H Cross
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC IGMM, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Ian J Jackson
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC IGMM, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, EH25 9RG, UK
| | | | - Susan Morse
- MRC Mammalian Genetics Unit, MRC Harwell, Oxford, OX11 0RD, UK
| | - George Nicholson
- MRC Mammalian Genetics Unit, MRC Harwell, Oxford, OX11 0RD, UK Department of Statistics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3TG, UK
| | - Emma Coghill
- MRC Mammalian Genetics Unit, MRC Harwell, Oxford, OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Michael R Bowl
- MRC Mammalian Genetics Unit, MRC Harwell, Oxford, OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Steve D M Brown
- MRC Mammalian Genetics Unit, MRC Harwell, Oxford, OX11 0RD, UK
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16
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Sargent KM, McFee RM, Spuri Gomes R, Cupp AS. Vascular endothelial growth factor A: just one of multiple mechanisms for sex-specific vascular development within the testis? J Endocrinol 2015; 227:R31-50. [PMID: 26562337 PMCID: PMC4646736 DOI: 10.1530/joe-15-0342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Testis development from an indifferent gonad is a critical step in embryogenesis. A hallmark of testis differentiation is sex-specific vascularization that occurs as endothelial cells migrate from the adjacent mesonephros into the testis to surround Sertoli-germ cell aggregates and induce seminiferous cord formation. Many in vitro experiments have demonstrated that vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) is a critical regulator of this process. Both inhibitors to VEGFA signal transduction and excess VEGFA isoforms in testis organ cultures impaired vascular development and seminiferous cord formation. However, in vivo models using mice which selectively eliminated all VEGFA isoforms: in Sertoli and germ cells (pDmrt1-Cre;Vegfa(-/-)); Sertoli and Leydig cells (Amhr2-Cre;Vegfa(-/-)) or Sertoli cells (Amh-Cre;Vegfa(-/-) and Sry-Cre;Vegfa(-/-)) displayed testes with observably normal cords and vasculature at postnatal day 0 and onwards. Embryonic testis development may be delayed in these mice; however, the postnatal data indicate that VEGFA isoforms secreted from Sertoli, Leydig or germ cells are not required for testis morphogenesis within the mouse. A Vegfa signal transduction array was employed on postnatal testes from Sry-Cre;Vegfa(-/-) versus controls. Ptgs1 (Cox1) was the only upregulated gene (fivefold). COX1 stimulates angiogenesis and upregulates, VEGFA, Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and PGD2. Thus, other gene pathways may compensate for VEGFA loss, similar to multiple independent mechanisms to maintain SOX9 expression. Multiple independent mechanism that induce vascular development in the testis may contribute to and safeguard the sex-specific vasculature development responsible for inducing seminiferous cord formation, thus ensuring appropriate testis morphogenesis in the male.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Sargent
- Department of Animal ScienceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln, Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68583-0908, USA
| | - Renee M McFee
- Department of Animal ScienceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln, Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68583-0908, USA
| | - Renata Spuri Gomes
- Department of Animal ScienceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln, Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68583-0908, USA
| | - Andrea S Cupp
- Department of Animal ScienceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln, Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68583-0908, USA
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17
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Understanding sex determination in the mouse: genetics, epigenetics and the story of mutual antagonisms. J Genet 2015; 94:585-90. [DOI: 10.1007/s12041-015-0565-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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18
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Bagheri-Fam S, Ono M, Li L, Zhao L, Ryan J, Lai R, Katsura Y, Rossello FJ, Koopman P, Scherer G, Bartsch O, Eswarakumar JVP, Harley VR. FGFR2 mutation in 46,XY sex reversal with craniosynostosis. Hum Mol Genet 2015; 24:6699-710. [PMID: 26362256 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with 46,XY gonadal dysgenesis (GD) exhibit genital anomalies, which range from hypospadias to complete male-to-female sex reversal. However, a molecular diagnosis is made in only 30% of cases. Heterozygous mutations in the human FGFR2 gene cause various craniosynostosis syndromes including Crouzon and Pfeiffer, but testicular defects were not reported. Here, we describe a patient whose features we would suggest represent a new FGFR2-related syndrome, craniosynostosis with XY male-to-female sex reversal or CSR. The craniosynostosis patient was chromosomally XY, but presented as a phenotypic female due to complete GD. DNA sequencing identified the FGFR2c heterozygous missense mutation, c.1025G>C (p.Cys342Ser). Substitution of Cys342 by Ser or other amino acids (Arg/Phe/Try/Tyr) has been previously reported in Crouzon and Pfeiffer syndrome. We show that the 'knock-in' Crouzon mouse model Fgfr2c(C342Y/C342Y) carrying a Cys342Tyr substitution displays XY gonadal sex reversal with variable expressivity. We also show that despite FGFR2c-Cys342Tyr being widely considered a gain-of-function mutation, Cys342Tyr substitution in the gonad leads to loss of function, as demonstrated by sex reversal in Fgfr2c(C342Y/-) mice carrying the knock-in allele on a null background. The rarity of our patient suggests the influence of modifier genes which exacerbated the testicular phenotype. Indeed, patient whole exome analysis revealed several potential modifiers expressed in Sertoli cells at the time of testis determination in mice. In summary, this study identifies the first FGFR2 mutation in a 46,XY GD patient. We conclude that, in certain rare genetic contexts, maintaining normal levels of FGFR2 signaling is important for human testis determination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Bagheri-Fam
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology,
| | - Makoto Ono
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Li Li
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Liang Zhao
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Janelle Ryan
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Raymond Lai
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yukako Katsura
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, USA
| | - Fernando J Rossello
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Koopman
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Gerd Scherer
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany and
| | - Oliver Bartsch
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jacob V P Eswarakumar
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Vincent R Harley
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology,
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Chen JQ, Wakefield LM, Goldstein DJ. Capillary nano-immunoassays: advancing quantitative proteomics analysis, biomarker assessment, and molecular diagnostics. J Transl Med 2015; 13:182. [PMID: 26048678 PMCID: PMC4467619 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-015-0537-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an emerging demand for the use of molecular profiling to facilitate biomarker identification and development, and to stratify patients for more efficient treatment decisions with reduced adverse effects. In the past decade, great strides have been made to advance genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic approaches to address these demands. While there has been much progress with these large scale approaches, profiling at the protein level still faces challenges due to limitations in clinical sample size, poor reproducibility, unreliable quantitation, and lack of assay robustness. A novel automated capillary nano-immunoassay (CNIA) technology has been developed. This technology offers precise and accurate measurement of proteins and their post-translational modifications using either charge-based or size-based separation formats. The system not only uses ultralow nanogram levels of protein but also allows multi-analyte analysis using a parallel single-analyte format for increased sensitivity and specificity. The high sensitivity and excellent reproducibility of this technology make it particularly powerful for analysis of clinical samples. Furthermore, the system can distinguish and detect specific protein post-translational modifications that conventional Western blot and other immunoassays cannot easily capture. This review will summarize and evaluate the latest progress to optimize the CNIA system for comprehensive, quantitative protein and signaling event characterization. It will also discuss how the technology has been successfully applied in both discovery research and clinical studies, for signaling pathway dissection, proteomic biomarker assessment, targeted treatment evaluation and quantitative proteomic analysis. Lastly, a comparison of this novel system with other conventional immuno-assay platforms is performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Qiu Chen
- Collaborative Protein Technology Resource, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Building 37, Room 2140, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - Lalage M Wakefield
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - David J Goldstein
- Office of Science and Technology Resources, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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20
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Lin YT, Capel B. Cell fate commitment during mammalian sex determination. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2015; 32:144-52. [PMID: 25841206 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2015.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Revised: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The gonads form bilaterally as bipotential organs that can develop as testes or ovaries. All secondary sex characteristics that we associate with 'maleness' or 'femaleness' depend on whether testes or ovaries form. The fate of the gonads depends on a cell fate decision that occurs in a somatic cell referred to as the 'supporting cell lineage'. Once supporting cell progenitors commit to Sertoli (male) or granulosa (female) fate, they propagate this decision to the other cells within the organ. In this review, we will describe what is known about the bipotential state of somatic and germ cell lineages in the gonad and the transcriptional and antagonistic signaling networks that lead to commitment, propagation, and maintenance of testis or ovary fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Tzu Lin
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Blanche Capel
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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Abstract
Protein Simple© has taken a well-known protein detection method, the western blot, and revolutionized it. The Simple Western™ system uses capillary electrophoresis to identify and quantitate a protein of interest. Protein Simple© provides multiple detection apparatuses (Wes, Sally Sue, or Peggy Sue) that are suggested to save scientists valuable time by allowing the researcher to prepare the protein sample, load it along with necessary antibodies and substrates, and walk away. Within 3-5 h the protein will be separated by size, or charge, immuno-detection of target protein will be accurately quantitated, and results will be immediately made available. Using the Peggy Sue instrument, one study recently examined changes in MAPK signaling proteins in the sex-determining stage of gonadal development. Here the methodology is described.
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