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Shin BJ, Kim BJ, Paeng EJ, Rifkin JT, Moon SH, Shin SH, Ryu BY. N-Acetyl-L-cysteine attenuates titanium dioxide nanoparticle (TiO 2 NP)-induced autophagy in male germ cells. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 108:104466. [PMID: 38759847 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2024.104466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) are widely used in consumer products, raising concerns about their impact on human health. This study investigates the effects of TiO2 NPs on male germ cells while focusing on cell proliferation inhibition and underlying mechanisms. This was done by utilizing mouse GC-1 spermatogonia cells, an immortalized spermatogonia cell line. TiO2 NPs induced a concentration-dependent proliferation inhibition with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Notably, TiO2 NPs induced autophagy and decreased ERK phosphorylation. Treatment with the ROS inhibitor N-Acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) alleviated TiO2 NPs-induced autophagy, restored ERK phosphorylation, and promoted cell proliferation. These findings call attention to the reproductive risks posed by TiO2 NPs while also highlighting NAC as a possible protective agent against reproductive toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beom-Jin Shin
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-Do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Bang-Jin Kim
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Sciences, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Eun-Ji Paeng
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-Do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Jack Tyler Rifkin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Sciences, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Sung-Hwan Moon
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-Do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hee Shin
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-Do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Buom-Yong Ryu
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-Do 17546, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Mottola F, Palmieri I, Carannante M, Barretta A, Roychoudhury S, Rocco L. Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Male Infertility: Established Methodologies and Future Perspectives. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:539. [PMID: 38790168 PMCID: PMC11121722 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Male fertility can be affected by oxidative stress (OS), which occurs when an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's ability to neutralize them arises. OS can damage cells and influence sperm production. High levels of lipid peroxidation have been linked to reduced sperm motility and decreased fertilization ability. This literature review discusses the most commonly used biomarkers to measure sperm damage caused by ROS, such as the high level of OS in seminal plasma as an indicator of imbalance in antioxidant activity. The investigated biomarkers include 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine acid (8-OHdG), a marker of DNA damage caused by ROS, and F2 isoprostanoids (8-isoprostanes) produced by lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, this review focuses on recent methodologies including the NGS polymorphisms and differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis, as well as the epigenetic mechanisms linked to ROS during spermatogenesis along with new methodologies developed to evaluate OS biomarkers. Finally, this review addresses a valuable insight into the mechanisms of male infertility provided by these advances and how they have led to new treatment possibilities. Overall, the use of biomarkers to evaluate OS in male infertility has supplied innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, enhancing our understanding of male infertility mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Mottola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (F.M.); (I.P.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Ilaria Palmieri
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (F.M.); (I.P.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Maria Carannante
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (F.M.); (I.P.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Angela Barretta
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (F.M.); (I.P.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
| | | | - Lucia Rocco
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (F.M.); (I.P.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
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3
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Lin X, Li L, Luo J, Chen D, Tan J, Li P. Cobalt-induced apoptosis of cochlear organotypic cultures and HEI-OC1 cells is mediated by Dicer. Neurotoxicology 2024; 100:85-99. [PMID: 38101458 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2023.12.009] [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: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Cobalt is widely used in the medical industry, mainly including cobalt alloy joint implants and cobalt-chromium porcelain crowns. However, unexplained ototoxicity and neurotoxicity often occur in the clinical use of cobalt agents at present, which limits the development of the cobalt industry. In this study, based on the clinical problem of cobalt ototoxicity, we first conducted an extensive search and collation of related theories, and on this basis, prepared an HEI-OC1 cell model and basilar membrane organotypic cultures after cobalt treatment. We used immunofluorescence staining, western blot, CCK8, and si-RNA to investigate the mechanism of cobalt ototoxicity, to discover its potential therapeutic targets. After comparing the reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial transmembrane potential, apoptosis-related protein expression, and cell viability of different treatment groups, the following conclusions were drawn: cobalt causes oxidative stress in the inner ear, which leads to apoptosis of inner ear cells; inhibition of oxidative stress and apoptosis can alleviate the damage of cobalt on inner ear cells; and the Dicer protein plays a role in the mechanism of inner ear damage and is a potential target for the treatment of cobalt-induced inner ear damage. Taken together, these results suggest that cobalt-induced ototoxicity triggered by oxidative stress activates a cascade of apoptotic events where cCaspase-3 decreases Dicer levels and amplifies this apoptotic pathway. It may be possible to prevent and treat cobalt ototoxicity by targeting this mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuexin Lin
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liling Li
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia Luo
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingqian Tan
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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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.
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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.
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Olotu O, Ahmedani A, Kotaja N. Small Non-Coding RNAs in Male Reproduction. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:213-225. [PMID: 38346711 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1779726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Male reproductive functions are strictly regulated in order to maintain sperm production and fertility. All processes are controlled by precise regulation of gene expression, which creates specific gene expression programs for different developmental stages and cell types, and forms the functional basis for the reproductive system. Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) are involved in gene regulation by targeting mRNAs for translational repression and degradation through complementary base pairing to recognize their targets. This review article summarizes the current knowledge on the function of different classes of sncRNAs, in particular microRNAs (miRNAs) and PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), during male germ cell differentiation, with the focus on sncRNAs expressed in the germline. Although transcriptionally inactive, mature spermatozoa contain a complex population of sncRNAs, and we also discuss the recently identified role of sperm sncRNAs in the intergenerational transmission of epigenetic information on father's environmental and lifestyle exposures to offspring. Finally, we summarize the current information on the utility of sncRNAs as potential biomarkers of infertility that may aid in the diagnosis and prediction of outcomes of medically assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Opeyemi Olotu
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Ammar Ahmedani
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Noora Kotaja
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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6
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Lu L, Abbott AL. Male gonad-enriched microRNAs function to control sperm production in C. elegans. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.10.561762. [PMID: 37873419 PMCID: PMC10592766 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.10.561762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Germ cell development and gamete production in animals require small RNA pathways. While studies indicate that microRNAs (miRNAs) are necessary for normal sperm production and function, the specific roles for individual miRNAs are largely unknown. Here, we use small RNA sequencing of dissected gonads and functional analysis of new loss of function alleles to identify functions for miRNAs in the control of fecundity and sperm production in Caenorhabditis elegans males and hermaphrodites. We describe a set of 29 male gonad-enriched miRNAs and identify a set of 3 individual miRNAs (mir-58.1, mir-83, and mir-235) and a miRNA cluster (mir-4807-4810.1) that are required for optimal sperm production at 20°C and 5 additional miRNAs (mir-49, mir-57, mir-261, and mir-357/358) that are required for sperm production at 25°C. We observed defects in meiotic progression in mir-58.1, mir-83, mir-235, and mir-4807-4810.1 mutants that may contribute to the reduced number of sperm. Further, analysis of multiple mutants of these miRNAs suggested complex genetic interactions between these miRNAs for sperm production. This study provides insights on the regulatory roles of miRNAs that promote optimal sperm production and fecundity in males and hermaphrodites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Lu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, 53201 USA
| | - Allison L. Abbott
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, 53201 USA
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7
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Wang X, Li W, Feng X, Li J, Liu GE, Fang L, Yu Y. Harnessing male germline epigenomics for the genetic improvement in cattle. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2023; 14:76. [PMID: 37277852 PMCID: PMC10242889 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-023-00874-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm is essential for successful artificial insemination in dairy cattle, and its quality can be influenced by both epigenetic modification and epigenetic inheritance. The bovine germline differentiation is characterized by epigenetic reprogramming, while intergenerational and transgenerational epigenetic inheritance can influence the offspring's development through the transmission of epigenetic features to the offspring via the germline. Therefore, the selection of bulls with superior sperm quality for the production and fertility traits requires a better understanding of the epigenetic mechanism and more accurate identifications of epigenetic biomarkers. We have comprehensively reviewed the current progress in the studies of bovine sperm epigenome in terms of both resources and biological discovery in order to provide perspectives on how to harness this valuable information for genetic improvement in the cattle breeding industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, National Engineering Laboratory of Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- Konge Larsen ApS, Kongens Lyngby, 2800, Denmark
- Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Wenlong Li
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, National Engineering Laboratory of Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xia Feng
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, National Engineering Laboratory of Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jianbing Li
- Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - George E Liu
- Animal Genomics and Improvement Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, Henry A. Wallace Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, USDA, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
| | - Lingzhao Fang
- Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark.
| | - Ying Yu
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, National Engineering Laboratory of Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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Chen J, Han C. In vivo functions of miRNAs in mammalian spermatogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1154938. [PMID: 37215089 PMCID: PMC10196063 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1154938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are believed to play important roles in mammalian spermatogenesis mainly because spermatogenesis is more or less disrupted when genes encoding key enzymes for miRNA biogenesis are mutated. However, it is challenging to study the functions of individual miRNAs due to their family-wise high sequence similarities and the clustered genomic distributions of their genes, both of which expose difficulties in using genetic methods. Accumulating evidence shows that a number of miRNAs indeed play important roles in mammalian spermatogenesis and the underlying mechanisms start to be understood. In this mini review, we focus on highlighting the roles of miRNAs in mammalian spermatogenesis elucidated mainly by using in vivo genetic methods and on discussing the underlying mechanisms. We propose that studies on the roles of miRNAs in spermatogenesis should and can be conducted in a more fruitful way given the progress in traditional methods and the birth of new technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chunsheng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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9
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Zhong D, Zhang L, Huang K, Chen M, Chen Y, Liu Q, Shi D, Li H. circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network analysis to explore the pathogenesis of abnormal spermatogenesis due to aberrant m6A methylation. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 392:605-620. [PMID: 36656346 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03725-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Many studies have shown that circRNAs and miRNAs play important roles in many different life processes. However, the function of circRNAs in spermatogenesis remains unknown. Here, we aimed to explore the mechanisms whereby circRNA-miRNAs-mRNAs regulate abnormal m6A methylation in GC-1spg spermatogonia. We first reduced m6A methylation in GC-1spg whole cells after knocking down the m6A methyltransferase enzyme, METTL3. Then, we performed circRNA- and miRNA-seq on GC-1spg cells with low m6A methylation and identified 48 and 50 differentially expressed circRNAs and miRNAs, respectively. We also predicted the targets of the differentially expressed miRNAs by using Miranda software and further constructed the differentially expressed circRNA-differentially expressed miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network. GO analysis was performed on the differentially expressed circRNAs and miRNA-targeted mRNAs, and an interaction network between the proteins of interest was constructed using Cytoscape. The final GO analysis showed that the target mRNAs were involved in sperm formation. Therefore, a PPI network was subsequently constructed and 2 hub genes (H2afx and Dnmt3a) were identified. In this study, we constructed a ceRNA network and explored the regulatory roles of circRNAs and miRNAs in the pathogenesis of abnormal spermatogenesis caused by low levels of methylated m6A. Also, we identified two pivotal genes that may be key factors in infertility caused by abnormal m6A methylation. This may provide some ideas for the treatment of infertility resulting from abnormal spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Zhong
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Liyin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Kongwei Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Mengjie Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Yaling Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Qingyou Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, 528225, China
| | - Deshun Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Hui Li
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China. .,Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China.
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10
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Kyrgiafini MA, Sarafidou T, Mamuris Z. The Role of Long Noncoding RNAs on Male Infertility: A Systematic Review and In Silico Analysis. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11101510. [PMID: 36290414 PMCID: PMC9598197 DOI: 10.3390/biology11101510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility is a complex disorder affecting many couples worldwide. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate important cellular processes; however, a comprehensive understanding of their role in male infertility is limited. This systematic review investigates the differential expressions of lncRNAs in male infertility or variations in lncRNA regions associated with it. The PRISMA guidelines were used to search Pubmed and Web of Science (1 June 2022). Inclusion criteria were human participants, patients diagnosed with male infertility, and English language speakers. We also performed an in silico analysis investigating lncRNAs that are reported in many subtypes of male infertility. A total of 625 articles were found, and after the screening and eligibility stages, 20 studies were included in the final sample. Many lncRNAs are deregulated in male infertility, and interactions between lncRNAs and miRNAs play an important role. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding the impact of variants found in lncRNA regions. Furthermore, eight lncRNAs were identified as differentially expressed in many subtypes of male infertility. After in silico analysis, gene ontology (GO) and KEGG enrichment analysis of the genes targeted by them revealed their association with bladder and prostate cancer. However, pathways involved in general in tumorigenesis and cancer development of all types, such as p53 pathways, apoptosis, and cell death, were also enriched, indicating a link between cancer and male infertility. This evidence, however, is preliminary. Future research is needed to explore the exact mechanism of action of the identified lncRNAs and investigate the association between male infertility and cancer.
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11
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Chen J, Gao C, Luo M, Zheng C, Lin X, Ning Y, Ma L, He W, Xie D, Liu K, Hong K, Han C. MicroRNA-202 safeguards meiotic progression by preventing premature SEPARASE-mediated REC8 cleavage. EMBO Rep 2022; 23:e54298. [PMID: 35712867 PMCID: PMC9346496 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202154298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are believed to play important roles in mammalian spermatogenesis but the in vivo functions of single miRNAs in this highly complex developmental process remain unclear. Here, we report that miR-202, a member of the let-7 family, plays an important role in spermatogenesis by phenotypic evaluation of miR-202 knockout (KO) mice. Loss of miR-202 results in spermatocyte apoptosis and perturbation of the zygonema-to-pachynema transition. Multiple processes during meiosis prophase I including synapsis and crossover formation are disrupted, and inter-sister chromatid synapses are detected. Moreover, we demonstrate that Separase mRNA is a miR-202 direct target and provides evidence that miR-202 upregulates REC8 by repressing Separase expression. Therefore, we have identified miR-202 as a new regulating noncoding gene that acts on the established SEPARASE-REC8 axis in meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Chenxu Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Mengcheng Luo
- Department of Tissue and EmbryologyHubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated DiseaseSchool of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Chunwei Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Xiwen Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Yan Ning
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Longfei Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Wei He
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Dan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Kui Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility RegulationCenter of Assisted Reproduction and EmbryologyThe University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Kai Hong
- Department of UrologyPeking University Third HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Chunsheng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
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12
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Carro MDLM, Grimson A, Cohen PE. Small RNAs and their protein partners in animal meiosis. Curr Top Dev Biol 2022; 151:245-279. [PMID: 36681472 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2022.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Meiosis is characterized by highly regulated transitions in gene expression that require diverse mechanisms of gene regulation. For example, in male mammals, transcription undergoes a global shut-down in early prophase I of meiosis, followed by increasing transcriptional activity into pachynema. Later, as spermiogenesis proceeds, the histones bound to DNA are replaced with transition proteins, which are themselves replaced with protamines, resulting in a highly condensed nucleus with repressed transcriptional activity. In addition, two specialized gene silencing events take place during prophase I: meiotic silencing of unsynapsed chromatin (MSUC), and the sex chromatin specific mechanism, meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI). Notably, conserved roles for the RNA binding protein (RBP) machinery that functions with small non-coding RNAs have been described as participating in these meiosis-specific mechanisms, suggesting that RNA-mediated gene regulation is critical for fertility in many species. Here, we review roles of small RNAs and their associated RBPs in meiosis-related processes such as centromere function, silencing of unpaired chromatin and meiotic recombination. We will discuss the emerging evidence of non-canonical functions of these components in meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- María de Las Mercedes Carro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States; Cornell Reproductive Sciences Center (CoRe), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Andrew Grimson
- Cornell Reproductive Sciences Center (CoRe), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States; Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States.
| | - Paula E Cohen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States; Cornell Reproductive Sciences Center (CoRe), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States.
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13
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Small Noncoding RNAs Contribute to Sperm Oxidative Stress-Induced Programming of Behavioral and Metabolic Phenotypes in Offspring. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:6877283. [PMID: 35707281 PMCID: PMC9192199 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6877283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that paternal environmental information alters small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) in sperm and in turn can induce alterations of metabolic and behavioral phenotypes of the next generation. However, the potential mediators of the effects remain to be elucidated. A great diversity of environmental insults and stresses can convergently induce the elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in sperm; nonetheless, it remains unclear whether ROS mediates the biogenesis of sncRNAs in sperm and participates in the reprogramming of offspring phenotypes. Here, we show that ROS could induce the alteration of sncRNA profiles in sperm, especially for transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) and ribosomal RNA-derived small RNAs (rsRNAs). Zygotic injection of 29-34 nt RNA fractions (predominantly tsRNAs and rsRNAs) from oxidative stress (OS) sperm could induce depressive-like and anxiety-like behaviors in male offspring. Moreover, zygotic injection with synthetic RNAs partially resembled OS sperm-induced depressive-like and anxiety-like behaviors in offspring. Male offspring maintained on a chow diet was found to develop impaired glucose tolerance and hyperactive hepatic gluconeogenesis, accompanied by the upregulation of hepatic gluconeogenic and lipolytic genes. Together, our results have shown that ROS-induced alteration of sncRNA profiles in sperm contributes to the alterations of behavioral and metabolic phenotypes of the offspring.
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14
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Walker WH. Regulation of mammalian spermatogenesis by miRNAs. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 121:24-31. [PMID: 34006455 PMCID: PMC8591147 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Male fertility requires the continual production of sperm by the process of spermatogenesis. This process requires the correct timing of regulatory signals to germ cells during each phase of their development. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) in germ cells and supporting Sertoli cells respond to regulatory signals and cause down- or upregulation of mRNAs and proteins required to produce proteins that act in various pathways to support spermatogenesis. The targets and functional consequences of altered miRNA expression in undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids and Sertoli cells are discussed. Mechanisms are reviewed by which miRNAs contribute to decisions that promote spermatogonia stem cell self-renewal versus differentiation, entry into and progression through meiosis, differentiation of spermatids, as well as the regulation of Sertoli cell proliferation and differentiation. Also discussed are miRNA actions providing the very first signals for the differentiation of spermatogonia stem cells in a non-human primate model of puberty initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H. Walker
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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15
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Chen J, Gao C, Lin X, Ning Y, He W, Zheng C, Zhang D, Yan L, Jiang B, Zhao Y, Hossen MA, Han C. The microRNA miR-202 prevents precocious spermatogonial differentiation and meiotic initiation during mouse spermatogenesis. Development 2021; 148:273742. [PMID: 34913465 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial differentiation and meiotic initiation during spermatogenesis are tightly regulated by a number of genes, including those encoding enzymes for miRNA biogenesis. However, whether and how single miRNAs regulate these processes remain unclear. Here, we report that miR-202, a member of the let-7 family, prevents precocious spermatogonial differentiation and meiotic initiation in spermatogenesis by regulating the timely expression of many genes, including those for key regulators such as STRA8 and DMRT6. In miR-202 knockout (KO) mice, the undifferentiated spermatogonial pool is reduced, accompanied by age-dependent decline of fertility. In KO mice, SYCP3, STRA8 and DMRT6 are expressed earlier than in wild-type littermates, and Dmrt6 mRNA is a direct target of miR-202-5p. Moreover, the precocious spermatogonial differentiation and meiotic initiation were also observed in KO spermatogonial stem cells when cultured and induced in vitro, and could be partially rescued by the knockdown of Dmrt6. Therefore, we have not only shown that miR-202 is a regulator of meiotic initiation but also identified a previously unknown module in the underlying regulatory network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Chenxu Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiwen Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yan Ning
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Wei He
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chunwei Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Daoqin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Lin Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601 Anhui, China
| | - Binjie Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yuting Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Md Alim Hossen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chunsheng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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16
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Small Noncoding RNAs in Reproduction and Infertility. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121884. [PMID: 34944700 PMCID: PMC8698561 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility has been reported as one of the most common reproductive impairments, affecting nearly one in six couples worldwide. A large proportion of infertility cases are diagnosed as idiopathic, signifying a deficit in information surrounding the pathology of infertility and necessity of medical intervention such as assisted reproductive therapy. Small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) are well-established regulators of mammalian reproduction. Advanced technologies have revealed the dynamic expression and diverse functions of sncRNAs during mammalian germ cell development. Mounting evidence indicates sncRNAs in sperm, especially microRNAs (miRNAs) and transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), are sensitive to environmental changes and mediate the inheritance of paternally acquired metabolic and mental traits. Here, we review the critical roles of sncRNAs in mammalian germ cell development. Furthermore, we highlight the functions of sperm-borne sncRNAs in epigenetic inheritance. We also discuss evidence supporting sncRNAs as promising biomarkers for fertility and embryo quality in addition to the present limitations of using sncRNAs for infertility diagnosis and treatment.
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17
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Ramakrishna NB, Murison K, Miska EA, Leitch HG. Epigenetic Regulation during Primordial Germ Cell Development and Differentiation. Sex Dev 2021; 15:411-431. [PMID: 34847550 DOI: 10.1159/000520412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Germline development varies significantly across metazoans. However, mammalian primordial germ cell (PGC) development has key conserved landmarks, including a critical period of epigenetic reprogramming that precedes sex-specific differentiation and gametogenesis. Epigenetic alterations in the germline are of unique importance due to their potential to impact the next generation. Therefore, regulation of, and by, the non-coding genome is of utmost importance during these epigenomic events. Here, we detail the key chromatin changes that occur during mammalian PGC development and how these interact with the expression of non-coding RNAs alongside broader epitranscriptomic changes. We identify gaps in our current knowledge, in particular regarding epigenetic regulation in the human germline, and we highlight important areas of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navin B Ramakrishna
- Wellcome/CRUK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Genome Institute of Singapore, A*STAR, Biopolis, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Keir Murison
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Eric A Miska
- Wellcome/CRUK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Harry G Leitch
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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18
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Morgan M, Kumar L, Li Y, Baptissart M. Post-transcriptional regulation in spermatogenesis: all RNA pathways lead to healthy sperm. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:8049-8071. [PMID: 34748024 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04012-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Multiple RNA pathways are required to produce functional sperm. Here, we review RNA post-transcriptional regulation during spermatogenesis with particular emphasis on the role of 3' end modifications. From early studies in the 1970s, it became clear that spermiogenesis transcripts could be stored for days only to be translated at advanced stages of spermatid differentiation. The transition between the translationally repressed and active states was observed to correlate with the shortening of the transcripts' poly(A) tail, establishing a link between RNA 3' end metabolism and male germ cell differentiation. Since then, numerous RNA metabolic pathways have been implicated not only in the progression through spermatogenesis, but also in the maintenance of genomic integrity. Recent studies have characterized the elusive 3' biogenesis of Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), identified a critical role for messenger RNA (mRNA) 3' uridylation in meiotic progression, established the mechanisms that destabilize transcripts with long 3' untranslated regions (3'UTRs) in post-mitotic cells, and defined the physiological relevance of RNA exonucleases and deadenylases in male germ cells. In this review, we discuss RNA processing in the male germline in the light of the most recent findings. A brief recollection of different RNA-processing events will aid future studies exploring post-transcriptional regulation in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Morgan
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA.
| | - Lokesh Kumar
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Yin Li
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Marine Baptissart
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
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19
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Burgos M, Hurtado A, Jiménez R, Barrionuevo FJ. Non-Coding RNAs: lncRNAs, miRNAs, and piRNAs in Sexual Development. Sex Dev 2021; 15:335-350. [PMID: 34614501 DOI: 10.1159/000519237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a group of RNAs that do not encode functional proteins, including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), and short interfering RNAs (siRNAs). In the last 2 decades an effort has been made to uncover the role of ncRNAs during development and disease, and nowadays it is clear that these molecules have a regulatory function in many of the developmental and physiological processes where they have been studied. In this review, we provide an overview of the role of ncRNAs during gonad determination and development, focusing mainly on mammals, although we also provide information from other species, in particular when there is not much information on the function of particular types of ncRNAs during mammalian sexual development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Burgos
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Lab. 127, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Alicia Hurtado
- Epigenetics and Sex Development Group, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rafael Jiménez
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Lab. 127, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Francisco J Barrionuevo
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Lab. 127, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
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20
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Saebnia N, Neshati Z, Bahrami AR. Role of microRNAs in etiology of azoospermia and their application as non-invasive biomarkers in diagnosis of azoospermic patients. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 50:102207. [PMID: 34407467 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Azoospermia is a common cause of male infertility without any sperm in the semen and consists of ∼1% of all males and ∼15% of infertile ones. Currently, no accurate non-invasive diagnostic method exists for patients with azoospermia and testis biopsy is mandatory to determine if any spermatozoa exist in the testes. Studies have clarified that the expression of some distinct microRNAs shows alterations in azoospermic patients. MicroRNAs play critical roles during spermatogenesis and their dysregulation can defect this process. Here, we review studied microRNAs involved in the pathogenesis of azoospermia and their target genes. Moreover, we will imply the utility of seminal plasma microRNAs as non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers for azoospermia. We hope such studies could help patients with azoospermia in both diagnosis and treatment, in order that they could father their own biological children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Saebnia
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zeinab Neshati
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran; Novel Diagnostics and Therapeutics Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Ahmad Reza Bahrami
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran; Industrial Biotechnology Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
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21
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Integrated Analysis of Long Non-Coding RNA and mRNA Expression Profiles in Testes of Calves and Sexually Mature Wandong Bulls ( Bos taurus). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11072006. [PMID: 34359134 PMCID: PMC8300165 DOI: 10.3390/ani11072006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs axes are playing a vital role in the regulating of post-transcriptional gene expression. Thereby, elucidating the expression pattern of mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs underlying testis development is crucial. In this study, mRNA and long non-coding RNAs expression profiles were investigated in 3-month-old calves and 3-year-old mature bulls' testes by total RNA sequencing. Additionally, during the gene level analysis, 21,250 mRNAs and 20,533 long non-coding RNAs were identified. As a result, 7908 long non-coding RNAs (p-adjust < 0.05) and 5122 mRNAs (p-adjust < 0.05) were significantly differentially expressed between the distinct age groups. In addition, gene ontology and biological pathway analyses revealed that the predicted target genes are enriched in the lysine degradation, cell cycle, propanoate metabolism, adherens junction and cell adhesion molecules pathways. Correspondingly, the RT-qPCR validation results showed a strong consistency with the sequencing data. The source genes for the mRNAs (CCDC83, DMRTC2, HSPA2, IQCG, PACRG, SPO11, EHHADH, SPP1, NSD2 and ACTN4) and the long non-coding RNAs (COX7A2, COX6B2, TRIM37, PRM2, INHBA, ERBB4, SDHA, ATP6VOA2, FGF9 and TCF21) were found to be actively associated with bull sexual maturity and spermatogenesis. This study provided a comprehensive catalog of long non-coding RNAs in the bovine testes and also offered useful resources for understanding the differences in sexual development caused by the changes in the mRNA and long non-coding RNA interaction expressions between the immature and mature stages.
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22
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Werner A, Clark JE, Samaranayake C, Casement J, Zinad HS, Sadeq S, Al-Hashimi S, Smith M, Kotaja N, Mattick JS. Widespread formation of double-stranded RNAs in testis. Genome Res 2021; 31:1174-1186. [PMID: 34158368 PMCID: PMC8256860 DOI: 10.1101/gr.265603.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The testis transcriptome is highly complex and includes RNAs that potentially hybridize to form double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). We isolated dsRNA using the monoclonal J2 antibody and deep-sequenced the enriched samples from testes of juvenile Dicer1 knockout mice, age-matched controls, and adult animals. Comparison of our data set with recently published data from mouse liver revealed that the dsRNA transcriptome in testis is markedly different from liver: In testis, dsRNA-forming transcripts derive from mRNAs including promoters and immediate downstream regions, whereas in somatic cells they originate more often from introns and intergenic transcription. The genes that generate dsRNA are significantly expressed in isolated male germ cells with particular enrichment in pachytene spermatocytes. dsRNA formation is lower on the sex (X and Y) chromosomes. The dsRNA transcriptome is significantly less complex in juvenile mice as compared to adult controls and, possibly as a consequence, the knockout of Dicer1 has only a minor effect on the total number of transcript peaks associated with dsRNA. The comparison between dsRNA-associated genes in testis and liver with a reported set of genes that produce endogenous siRNAs reveals a significant overlap in testis but not in liver. Testis dsRNAs also significantly associate with natural antisense genes-again, this feature is not observed in liver. These findings point to a testis-specific mechanism involving natural antisense transcripts and the formation of dsRNAs that feed into the RNA interference pathway, possibly to mitigate the mutagenic impacts of recombination and transposon mobilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Werner
- Biosciences Institute, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle, NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
| | - James E Clark
- Biosciences Institute, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle, NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
| | - Calum Samaranayake
- Biosciences Institute, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle, NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
| | - John Casement
- Bioinformatics Support Unit, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle, NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
| | - Hany S Zinad
- Biosciences Institute, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle, NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
| | - Shaymaa Sadeq
- Biosciences Institute, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle, NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
- Fallujah College of Medicine, Al-Fallujah University, Al-Fallujah, 9Q4V+H3, Iraq
| | - Surar Al-Hashimi
- Biosciences Institute, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle, NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Smith
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Centre, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Noora Kotaja
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, FIN-20520, Finland
| | - John S Mattick
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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23
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Xu Z, Hu Q, Zang X, Zhou C, Liu D, Liu G, Hong L. Analysis of Transcripts of Uncertain Coding Potential Using RNA Sequencing During the Preattachment Phase in Goat Endometrium. DNA Cell Biol 2021; 40:998-1008. [PMID: 34115954 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2020.6463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcripts of uncertain coding potential (TUCP) are part of long noncoding RNAs, which include short open reading frames and could be translated into small peptides. In recent years, a growing number of TUCPs has been implicated in multiple biological activities, such as embryogenesis and transcriptional regulation. However, the abundance of TUCPs and their roles in goat endometrium during pregnancy recognition (day 16) remain undocumented. In this study, bioinformatics analyses were conducted to identify the differentially expressed (DE) TUCPs between pregnant animals and corresponding nonpregnant controls. A total of 5551 TUCPs were identified; 114 TUCPs were DE in goat endometrium, of which 74 TUCPs were upregulated in pregnant endometrium, whereas 40 TUCPs were downregulated. The related genes of TUCP were predicted by using coexpression and colocalization methods. In summary, 419 genes were predicted by colocalization, and 9464 genes were predicted by coexpression. The kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) and gene ontology (GO) analysis showed that TUCPs, which are highly expressed in pregnant endometrium, were mainly associated with endometrial remodeling, nutrient synthesis, and transportation. However, TUCPs that were lowly expressed in pregnant endometrium were mainly associated with immune tolerance, which is necessary for the protection and development of the embryo in the uterus. These findings may be used for the comparative analysis of TUCP transcripts in endometrium and assist in the selection of applicable candidate genes associated with embryo implantation for further functional analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Xu
- College of Animal Science, and South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qun Hu
- College of Animal Science, and South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xupeng Zang
- College of Animal Science, and South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chen Zhou
- College of Animal Science, and South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dewu Liu
- College of Animal Science, and South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guangbin Liu
- College of Animal Science, and South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Linjun Hong
- College of Animal Science, and South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poultry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
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24
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Gui Y, Yuan S. Epigenetic regulations in mammalian spermatogenesis: RNA-m 6A modification and beyond. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:4893-4905. [PMID: 33835194 PMCID: PMC11073063 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03823-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Emerging evidence shows that m6A, one of the most abundant RNA modifications in mammals, is involved in the entire process of spermatogenesis, including mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. "Writers" catalyze m6A formation on stage-specific transcripts during male germline development, while "erasers" remove m6A modification to maintain a balance between methylation and demethylation. The different functions of RNA-m6A transcripts depend on their recognition by "readers". m6A modification mediates RNA metabolism, including mRNA splicing, translation, and degradation, as well as the maturity and biosynthesis of non-coding RNAs. Sperm RNA profiles are easily affected by environmental exposure and can even be inherited for several generations, similar to epigenetic inheritance. Here, we review and summarize the critical role of m6A in different developmental stages of male germ cells, to understand of the mechanisms and epigenetic regulation of m6A modifications. In addition, we also outline and discuss the important role of non-coding RNAs in spermatogenesis and RNA modifications in epigenetic inheritance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqian Gui
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
- Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China.
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25
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Lidak T, Baloghova N, Korinek V, Sedlacek R, Balounova J, Kasparek P, Cermak L. CRL4-DCAF12 Ubiquitin Ligase Controls MOV10 RNA Helicase during Spermatogenesis and T Cell Activation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5394. [PMID: 34065512 PMCID: PMC8161014 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Multisubunit cullin-RING ubiquitin ligase 4 (CRL4)-DCAF12 recognizes the C-terminal degron containing acidic amino acid residues. However, its physiological roles and substrates are largely unknown. Purification of CRL4-DCAF12 complexes revealed a wide range of potential substrates, including MOV10, an "ancient" RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) complex RNA helicase. We show that DCAF12 controls the MOV10 protein level via its C-terminal motif in a proteasome- and CRL-dependent manner. Next, we generated Dcaf12 knockout mice and demonstrated that the DCAF12-mediated degradation of MOV10 is conserved in mice and humans. Detailed analysis of Dcaf12-deficient mice revealed that their testes produce fewer mature sperms, phenotype accompanied by elevated MOV10 and imbalance in meiotic markers SCP3 and γ-H2AX. Additionally, the percentages of splenic CD4+ T and natural killer T (NKT) cell populations were significantly altered. In vitro, activated Dcaf12-deficient T cells displayed inappropriately stabilized MOV10 and increased levels of activated caspases. In summary, we identified MOV10 as a novel substrate of CRL4-DCAF12 and demonstrated the biological relevance of the DCAF12-MOV10 pathway in spermatogenesis and T cell activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Lidak
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 252 42 Vestec, Czech Republic; (T.L.); (N.B.); (V.K.)
- Faculty of Science, Charles University, 128 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Nikol Baloghova
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 252 42 Vestec, Czech Republic; (T.L.); (N.B.); (V.K.)
| | - Vladimir Korinek
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 252 42 Vestec, Czech Republic; (T.L.); (N.B.); (V.K.)
- Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 252 42 Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Radislav Sedlacek
- Czech Centre for Phenogenomics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; (R.S.); (J.B.); (P.K.)
| | - Jana Balounova
- Czech Centre for Phenogenomics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; (R.S.); (J.B.); (P.K.)
| | - Petr Kasparek
- Czech Centre for Phenogenomics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; (R.S.); (J.B.); (P.K.)
| | - Lukas Cermak
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 252 42 Vestec, Czech Republic; (T.L.); (N.B.); (V.K.)
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Barbu MG, Thompson DC, Suciu N, Voinea SC, Cretoiu D, Predescu DV. The Roles of MicroRNAs in Male Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22062910. [PMID: 33805594 PMCID: PMC7998158 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22062910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs applications were vastly studied throughout the years, spanning from potential cancer biomarkers to targeted therapies for various diseases. Out of these utilizations, this paper focuses on their role in male infertility. Approximately 10–15% of worldwide couples are affected by infertility. Out of these, 50% are due to male determinants. The majority of cases still have an undetermined cause. Previous studies have found that the aberrant expression of microRNAs could be linked to certain reproductive dysfunctions in males. Further on, this study looked into the most recent literature published on this subject in order to assess the connection between the up-/down-regulation of various microRNAs and the roles they play in male infertility. MicroRNAs were found to be abundant and stable in the seminal liquid, which led to a facile identification using regular RNA detection methods. It was observed that the concentration of microRNAs in semen was modified in the case of patients suffering from asthenozoospermia and azoospermia. Moreover, idiopathic male infertility was associated with a single nucleotide polymorphism of the microRNA binding site. Future studies should focus their attention on discovering future treatments against male infertility targeting specific microRNAs and also on developing new and improved contraceptive methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madalina Gabriela Barbu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 020395 Bucharest, Romania; (M.G.B.); (D.C.T.); (D.C.)
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dana Claudia Thompson
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 020395 Bucharest, Romania; (M.G.B.); (D.C.T.); (D.C.)
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicolae Suciu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 020395 Bucharest, Romania; (M.G.B.); (D.C.T.); (D.C.)
- Division of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Neonatology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Polizu Clinical Hospital, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 011061 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (N.S.); (S.C.V.)
| | - Silviu Cristian Voinea
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Institute of Oncology Prof. Dr. Alexandru Trestioreanu, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (N.S.); (S.C.V.)
| | - Dragos Cretoiu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, 020395 Bucharest, Romania; (M.G.B.); (D.C.T.); (D.C.)
- Department of Cell, Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dragos Valentin Predescu
- Department of General Surgery, Sf. Maria Clinical Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 011172 Bucharest, Romania;
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Chukrallah LG, Badrinath A, Seltzer K, Snyder EM. Of rodents and ruminants: a comparison of small noncoding RNA requirements in mouse and bovine reproduction. J Anim Sci 2021; 99:6156131. [PMID: 33677580 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skaa388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Ruminants are major producers of meat and milk, thus managing their reproductive potential is a key element in cost-effective, safe, and efficient food production. Of particular concern, defects in male germ cells and female germ cells may lead to significantly reduced live births relative to fertilization. However, the underlying molecular drivers of these defects are unclear. Small noncoding RNAs, such as piRNAs and miRNAs, are known to be important regulators of germ-cell physiology in mouse (the best-studied mammalian model organism) and emerging evidence suggests that this is also the case in a range of ruminant species, in particular bovine. Similarities exist between mouse and bovids, especially in the case of meiotic and postmeiotic male germ cells. However, fundamental differences in small RNA abundance and metabolism between these species have been observed in the female germ cell, differences that likely have profound impacts on their physiology. Further, parentally derived small noncoding RNAs are known to influence early embryos and significant species-specific differences in germ-cell born small noncoding RNAs have been observed. These findings demonstrate the mouse to be an imperfect model for understanding germ-cell small noncoding RNA biology in ruminants and highlight the need to increase research efforts in this underappreciated aspect of animal reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aditi Badrinath
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Kelly Seltzer
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
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28
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Zhu L, Marjani SL, Jiang Z. The Epigenetics of Gametes and Early Embryos and Potential Long-Range Consequences in Livestock Species-Filling in the Picture With Epigenomic Analyses. Front Genet 2021; 12:557934. [PMID: 33747031 PMCID: PMC7966815 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.557934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The epigenome is dynamic and forged by epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNA species. Increasing lines of evidence support the concept that certain acquired traits are derived from environmental exposure during early embryonic and fetal development, i.e., fetal programming, and can even be "memorized" in the germline as epigenetic information and transmitted to future generations. Advances in technology are now driving the global profiling and precise editing of germline and embryonic epigenomes, thereby improving our understanding of epigenetic regulation and inheritance. These achievements open new avenues for the development of technologies or potential management interventions to counteract adverse conditions or improve performance in livestock species. In this article, we review the epigenetic analyses (DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNAs) of germ cells and embryos in mammalian livestock species (cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs) and the epigenetic determinants of gamete and embryo viability. We also discuss the effects of parental environmental exposures on the epigenetics of gametes and the early embryo, and evidence for transgenerational inheritance in livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linkai Zhu
- AgCenter, School of Animal Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Sadie L Marjani
- Department of Biology, Central Connecticut State University, New Britain, CT, United States
| | - Zongliang Jiang
- AgCenter, School of Animal Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
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29
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Neto FTL, Flannigan R, Goldstein M. Regulation of Human Spermatogenesis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:255-286. [PMID: 34453741 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human spermatogenesis (HS) is an intricate network of sequential processes responsible for the production of the male gamete, the spermatozoon. These processes take place in the seminiferous tubules (ST) of the testis, which are small tubular structures considered the functional units of the testes. Each human testicle contains approximately 600-1200 STs [1], and are capable of producing up to 275 million spermatozoa per day [2].
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan Flannigan
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Marc Goldstein
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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30
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Alves MBR, Celeghini ECC, Belleannée C. From Sperm Motility to Sperm-Borne microRNA Signatures: New Approaches to Predict Male Fertility Potential. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:791. [PMID: 32974342 PMCID: PMC7471662 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to the paternal genome, spermatozoa carry several intrinsic factors, including organelles (e.g., centrioles and mitochondria) and molecules (e.g., proteins and RNAs), which are involved in important steps of reproductive biology such as spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, oocyte fertilization and embryo development. These factors constitute potential biomarkers of "viable sperm" and male fertility status and may become major assets for diagnosing instances of idiopathic male infertility in both humans and livestock animals. A better understanding of the mechanism of action of these sperm intrinsic factors in the regulation of reproductive and developmental processes still presents a major challenge that must be addressed. This review assembles the main data regarding morpho-functional and intrinsic sperm features that are associated with male infertility, with a particular focus on microRNA (miRNA) molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maíra Bianchi Rodrigues Alves
- CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Animal Reproduction, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | | | - Clémence Belleannée
- CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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31
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Babakhanzadeh E, Khodadadian A, Nazari M, Dehghan Tezerjani M, Aghaei SM, Ghasemifar S, Hosseinnia M, Mazaheri M. Deficient Expression of DGCR8 in Human Testis is Related to Spermatogenesis Dysfunction, Especially in Meiosis I. Int J Gen Med 2020; 13:185-192. [PMID: 32523370 PMCID: PMC7237130 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s255431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 8 (DGCR8) contributes to miRNA biogenesis, and defects in its expression could lead to defects in spermatogenesis. Methods Here, we assess gene and protein expression levels of DGCR8 in the testicular biopsy specimens obtained from men with obstructive azoospermia (OA, n = 19) and various types of non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) including maturation arrest (MA, n = 17), Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS, n = 20) and hypospermatogenesis (HYPO, 18). Also, samples of men with NOA were divided into two groups based on successful and unsuccessful sperm recovery, NOA+ in 21 patients and NOA− in 34 patients. Results Examinations disclosed a severe decrease in DGCR8 in samples with MA and SCOS in comparison to OA samples (P < 0.001). Also, the results showed DGCR8 has significantly lower expression in testis tissues of NOA− group in comparison to NOA+ group (p<0.05). Western blot analysis confirmed that the DGCR8 protein was not expressed in SCOS samples and had a very low expression in MA and HYPO samples. Discussion The results of this survey showed that DGCR8 is an important gene for the entire spermatogenesis pathway. Moreover, DGCR8 gene plays an important role in the diagnosis of NOA subgroups, and also the expression changes in it might contribute to SCOS or MA phenotypes. This gene with considering other related genes can also be a predictor of sperm retrieval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad Babakhanzadeh
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Medical Genetics Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ali Khodadadian
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Majid Nazari
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | | | - Seyed Mohsen Aghaei
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Sina Ghasemifar
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mehdi Hosseinnia
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| | - Mahta Mazaheri
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Mother and Newborn Health Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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32
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Yang H, Wang F, Li F, Ren C, Pang J, Wan Y, Wang Z, Feng X, Zhang Y. Comprehensive analysis of long noncoding RNA and mRNA expression patterns in sheep testicular maturation. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:650-661. [PMID: 29668837 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) have been identified as important regulators of testis development; however, their expression patterns and roles in sheep are not yet clear. Thus, we used stranded specific RNA-seq to profile the testis transcriptome (lncRNAs and mRNAs) in premature and mature sheep. Hormone levels and the testis index were examined, and histological analyses were performed at five stages of testis development, 5-day-old (D5), 3-month-old (3M), 6-month-old (6M), 9-month-old (9M), and 2-year-old (2Y), the results of which indicate a significant difference in hormone levels and testis morphometries between the 3M and 9M stages (P < 0.05). Based on the comparison between 3M and 9M samples, we found 1,118 differentially expressed (DE) lncRNAs and 7,253 DE mRNAs in the testes, and qRT-PCR analysis showed that the results correlated well with the transcriptome data. Furthermore, we constructed lncRNA-protein-coding gene interaction networks. Forty-seven DE lncRNA-targeted genes enriched for male reproduction were obtained by cis- and trans-acting; 51 DE lncRNAs and 45 cis-targets, 2 DE lncRNAs and 2 trans-targets were involved in this network. Of these, 5 lncRNAs and their targets, PRKCD, NANOS3, SERPINA5, and CYP19A1, were enriched for spermatogenesis and male gonad development signaling pathways. We further examined the expression levels of 5 candidate lncRNAs and their target genes during testis development. Lastly, the interaction of lncRNA TCONS__00863147 and its target gene PRKCD was validated in vitro in sheep Leydig cells. This study provides a valuable resource for further study of lncRNA function in sheep testis development and spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Yang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, NO. 1 Weigang, Nanjing, 210095, P.R. China
| | - Feng Wang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, NO. 1 Weigang, Nanjing, 210095, P.R. China
| | - Fengzhe Li
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, NO. 1 Weigang, Nanjing, 210095, P.R. China
| | - Caifang Ren
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, NO. 1 Weigang, Nanjing, 210095, P.R. China
| | - Jing Pang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, NO. 1 Weigang, Nanjing, 210095, P.R. China
| | - Yongjie Wan
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, NO. 1 Weigang, Nanjing, 210095, P.R. China
| | - Ziyu Wang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, NO. 1 Weigang, Nanjing, 210095, P.R. China
| | - Xu Feng
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, NO. 1 Weigang, Nanjing, 210095, P.R. China
| | - Yanli Zhang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, NO. 1 Weigang, Nanjing, 210095, P.R. China
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Abstract
Having been debated for many years, the presence and role of spermatozoal RNAs is resolving, and their contribution to development is now appreciated. Data from different species continue show that sperm contain a complex suite of coding and noncoding RNAs that play a role in an individual's life course. Mature sperm RNAs provide a retrospective of spermatogenesis, with their presence and abundance reflecting sperm maturation, fertility potential, and the paternal contribution to the developmental path the offspring may follow.Sperm RNAs delivered upon fertilization provide some of the initial contacts with the oocyte, directly confront the maternal with the paternal contribution as a prelude to genome consolidation. Following syngamy, early embryo development may in part be modulated by paternal RNAs that can include epidydimal passengers. This provides a direct path to relay an experience and then initiate a paternal response to the environment to the oocyte and beyond. Their epigenetic impact is likely felt prior to embryonic genome activation when the population of sperm delivered transcripts markedly changes. Here, we review the insights gained from sperm RNAs over the years, the subtypes, and the caveats of the RNAs described. We discuss the role of sperm RNAs in fertilization and embryo development, and their possible mechanism(s) influencing offspring phenotype. Approaches to meet the future challenges as the study of sperm RNAs continues, include, elucidating the potential mechanisms underlying how paternal allostatic load, the constant adaptation of health to external conditions, may be relayed by sperm RNAs to affect future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Gòdia
- Animal Genomics Group, Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) (CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB), Cerdanyola del Vallès (Barcelona), Catalonia, Spain
| | - Grace Swanson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Stephen A Krawetz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA.,C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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34
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Guo WT, Wang Y. Dgcr8 knockout approaches to understand microRNA functions in vitro and in vivo. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:1697-1711. [PMID: 30694346 PMCID: PMC11105204 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03020-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Biologic function of the majority of microRNAs (miRNAs) is still unknown. Uncovering the function of miRNAs is hurdled by redundancy among different miRNAs. The deletion of Dgcr8 leads to the deficiency in producing all canonical miRNAs, therefore, overcoming the redundancy issue. Dgcr8 knockout strategy has been instrumental in understanding the function of miRNAs in a variety of cells in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we will first give a brief introduction about miRNAs, miRNA biogenesis pathway and the role of Dgcr8 in miRNA biogenesis. We will then summarize studies performed with Dgcr8 knockout cell models with a focus on embryonic stem cells. After that, we will summarize results from various in vivo Dgcr8 knockout models. Given significant phenotypic differences in various tissues between Dgcr8 and Dicer knockout, we will also briefly review current progresses on understanding miRNA-independent functions of miRNA biogenesis factors. Finally, we will discuss the potential use of a new strategy to stably express miRNAs in Dgcr8 knockout cells. In future, Dgcr8 knockout approaches coupled with innovations in miRNA rescue strategy may provide further insights into miRNA functions in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ting Guo
- Central Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Beijing, 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Yangming Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, People's Republic of China.
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35
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Khawar MB, Mehmood R, Roohi N. MicroRNAs: Recent insights towards their role in male infertility and reproductive cancers. Bosn J Basic Med Sci 2019; 19:31-42. [PMID: 30599090 DOI: 10.17305/bjbms.2018.3477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a tightly controlled, multi-step process in which mature spermatozoa are produced. Disruption of regulatory mechanisms in spermatogenesis can lead to male infertility, various diseases of male reproductive system, or even cancer. The spermatogenic impairment in infertile men can be associated with different etiologies, and the exact molecular mechanisms are yet to be determined. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a type of non-protein coding RNAs, about 22 nucleotides long, with an essential role in post-transcriptional regulation. miRNAs have been recognized as important regulators of various biological processes, including spermatogenesis. The aim of this review is to summarize the recent literature on the role of miRNAs in spermatogenesis, male infertility and reproductive cancers, and to evaluate their potential in diagnosis, prognosis and therapy of disease. Experimental evidence shows that aberrant expression of miRNAs affects spermatogenesis at multiple stages and in different cell types, most often resulting in infertility. In more severe cases, dysregulation of miRNAs leads to cancer. miRNAs have enormous potential to be used as diagnostic and prognostic markers as well as therapeutic targets in male infertility and reproductive system diseases. However, to exploit this potential fully, we need a better understanding of miRNA-mediated regulation of spermatogenesis, including the characterization of yet unidentified miRNAs and related regulatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Babar Khawar
- Molecular Physiology/Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan State Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Fu H, Zhou F, Yuan Q, Zhang W, Qiu Q, Yu X, He Z. miRNA-31-5p Mediates the Proliferation and Apoptosis of Human Spermatogonial Stem Cells via Targeting JAZF1 and Cyclin A2. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2018; 14:90-100. [PMID: 30583099 PMCID: PMC6305686 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 11/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence highlight the important application of human spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in translational medicine. The fate decisions of SSCs are mainly mediated by genetic and epigenetic factors. We have recently demonstrated that PAK1 regulates the proliferation, DNA synthesis, and early apoptosis of human SSCs through the PDK1/KDR/ZNF367 and ERK1/2 and AKT pathway. However, the underlying epigenetic mechanism of PAK1 in human SSCs remains unknown. In this study, we found that the level of miRNA-31-5p was elevated by PAK1 knockdown. CCK-8, PCNA, and 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EDU) assays revealed that miRNA-31-5p mimics inhibited cell proliferation and DNA synthesis of human SSCs. Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining and flow cytometry showed that miRNA-31-5p increased the early and late apoptosis of human SSCs. Furthermore, JAZF1 was predicted and verified as a target of miRNA-31-5p, and the three-dimensional (3D) structure model of JAZF1 protein was illustrated. JAZF1 silencing led to a reduction of cell proliferation and DNA synthesis as well as an enhancement of the early and late apoptosis of human SSCs. Finally, miRNA-31-5p mimics decreased the level of cyclin A2 rather than cyclin D1 or cyclin E1, and JAZF1 knockdown led to the reduction of cyclin A2 in human SSCs. Collectively, miRNA-31-5p regulates the proliferation, DNA synthesis, and apoptosis of human SSCs by the PAK1-JAZF1-cyclin A2 pathway. This study thus offers a novel insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying the fate determinations of human SSCs and might provide novel targets for molecular therapy of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyong Fu
- Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pu Jian Road, Shanghai 200127, China; The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, 127 Dongming Road, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China
| | - Fan Zhou
- Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pu Jian Road, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Qingqing Yuan
- Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pu Jian Road, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Wenhui Zhang
- Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pu Jian Road, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Qianqian Qiu
- Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pu Jian Road, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Xing Yu
- Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Zuping He
- Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China; Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pu Jian Road, Shanghai 200127, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200127, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
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37
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Pradillo M, Santos JL. Genes involved in miRNA biogenesis affect meiosis and fertility. Chromosome Res 2018; 26:233-241. [PMID: 30343461 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-018-9588-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small (containing about 22 nucleotides) single-stranded non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level in plants and animals, being absent from unicellular organisms. They act on diverse key physiological and cellular processes, such as development and tissue differentiation, cell identity, cell cycle progression, and programmed cell death. They are also likely to be involved in a broad spectrum of human diseases. Particularly, this review examines and summarizes work characterizing the function of miRNAs in gametogenesis and fertility. Although numerous studies have elucidated the involvement of reproductive-specific small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) in regulating germ cell development and meiosis, less is known about the role of miRNAs in these processes. We focus on the study of hypomorphic and null alleles of genes encoding components of miRNA biogenesis in both plants (Arabidopsis thaliana) and mammals (Mus musculus). We compare the consequences of the presence of these mutations on male meiosis in both species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Pradillo
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Juan L Santos
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University, 28040, Madrid, Spain
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38
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Balhorn R, Steger K, Bergmann M, Schuppe HC, Neuhauser S, Balhorn MC. New monoclonal antibodies specific for mammalian protamines P1 and P2. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 64:424-447. [DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1510063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rod Balhorn
- Briar Patch Biosciences LLC, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Klaus Steger
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Section Molecular Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Martin Bergmann
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Stefanie Neuhauser
- Pferdezentrum Bad Saarow, Veterinary Faculty of the University, Berlin, Germany
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39
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Che D, Wang Y, Bai W, Li L, Liu G, Zhang L, Zuo Y, Tao S, Hua J, Liao M. Dynamic and modular gene regulatory networks drive the development of gametogenesis. Brief Bioinform 2017; 18:712-721. [PMID: 27373733 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbw056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gametogenesis is a complex process, which includes mitosis and meiosis and results in the production of ovum and sperm. The development of gametogenesis is dynamic and needs many different genes to work synergistically, but it is lack of global perspective research about this process. In this study, we detected the dynamic process of gametogenesis from the perspective of systems biology based on protein-protein interaction networks (PPINs) and functional analysis. Results showed that gametogenesis genes have strong synergistic effects in PPINs within and between different phases during the development. Addition to the synergistic effects on molecular networks, gametogenesis genes showed functional consistency within and between different phases, which provides the further evidence about the dynamic process during the development of gametogenesis. At last, we detected and provided the core molecular modules of different phases about gametogenesis. The gametogenesis genes and related modules can be obtained from our Web site Gametogenesis Molecule Online (GMO, http://gametsonline.nwsuaflmz.com/index.php), which is freely accessible. GMO may be helpful for the reference and application of these genes and modules in the future identification of key genes about gametogenesis. Summary, this work provided a computational perspective and frame to the analysis of the gametogenesis dynamics and modularity in both human and mouse.
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40
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Choi YJ, Jeong S, Yoon KA, Sung HJ, Cho HS, Kim DW, Cho JY. Deficiency of DGCR8 increases bone formation through downregulation of miR-22 expression. Bone 2017; 103:287-294. [PMID: 28739418 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2017.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Revised: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNA) significantly contribute to bone formation by post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Mature miRNAs are generated following sequential cleavage by DROSHA/DGCR8 and DICER. However, recent studies have identified that some miRNAs require only one of these enzymes. Most studies seeking to clarify the role of miRNA during bone formation have been performed using DICER deletion strategies, but little is known regarding the role of DGCR8. To study the function of DGCR8 in osteogenesis, we generated mice in which Dgcr8 is conditionally deleted in osteoprogenitor cells by Col1a1-Cre. Dgcr8-cKO mice showed increased bone volume (BV/TV), trabecular number (Tb/N), and trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), but decreased trabecular separation (Tb.Sp) in the femur. Von Kossa, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining, and calcein double labeling identified that osteoblast activity is increased in Dgcr8-cKO mice. In an effort to elucidate a detailed cellular mechanism, we found that miR-22 was downregulated in Dgcr8-cKO mice, leading to upregulation of the osteocalcin transcript, a key marker of osteoblasts. Interestingly, the mRNA expression level of Dgcr8 was decreased during osteoblast differentiation. Taken together, these results strongly indicate that DGCR8-dependent generation of miR-22 is essential for bone formation and that miR-22 could be a therapeutic target for individuals with bone disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Jin Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sujin Jeong
- Department of Biochemistry, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Ae Yoon
- Department of Biochemistry, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hye-Jin Sung
- Department of Biochemistry, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hye-Sim Cho
- ProtAnBio, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dong Wook Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Je-Yoel Cho
- Department of Biochemistry, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.
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41
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Distinct Expression Profiles and Novel Targets of MicroRNAs in Human Spermatogonia, Pachytene Spermatocytes, and Round Spermatids between OA Patients and NOA Patients. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2017; 9:182-194. [PMID: 29246297 PMCID: PMC5645173 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Human spermatogenesis includes three main stages, namely, the mitosis of spermatogonia, meiosis of spermatocytes, and spermiogenesis of spermatids, which are precisely regulated by epigenetic and genetic factors. Abnormality of epigenetic and genetic factors can result in aberrant spermatogenesis and eventual male infertility. However, epigenetic regulators in controlling each stage of normal and abnormal human spermatogenesis remain unknown. Here, we have revealed for the first time the distinct microRNA profiles in human spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes, and round spermatids between obstructive azoospermia (OA) patients and non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) patients. Human spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes, and round spermatids from OA patients and NOA patients were isolated using STA-PUT velocity sedimentation and identified by numerous hallmarks for these cells. RNA deep sequencing showed that 396 microRNAs were differentially expressed in human spermatogonia between OA patients and NOA patients and 395 differentially expressed microRNAs were found in human pachytene spermatocytes between OA patients and NOA patients. Moreover, 378 microRNAs were differentially expressed in human round spermatids between OA patients and NOA patients. The differential expression of numerous microRNAs identified by RNA deep sequencing was verified by real-time PCR. Moreover, a number of novel targeting genes for microRNAs were predicted using various kinds of software and further verified by real-time PCR. This study thus sheds novel insights into epigenetic regulation of human normal spermatogenesis and the etiology of azoospermia, and it could offer new targets for molecular therapy to treat male infertility.
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Hilz S, Modzelewski AJ, Cohen PE, Grimson A. The roles of microRNAs and siRNAs in mammalian spermatogenesis. Development 2017; 143:3061-73. [PMID: 27578177 PMCID: PMC5047671 DOI: 10.1242/dev.136721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs and siRNAs, both of which are AGO-bound small RNAs, are essential for mammalian spermatogenesis. Although their precise germline roles remain largely uncharacterized, recent discoveries suggest that they function in mechanisms beyond microRNA-mediated post-transcriptional control, playing roles in DNA repair and transcriptional regulation within the nucleus. Here, we discuss the latest findings regarding roles for AGO proteins and their associated small RNAs in the male germline. We integrate genetic, clinical and genomics data, and draw upon findings from non-mammalian models, to examine potential roles for AGO-bound small RNAs during spermatogenesis. Finally, we evaluate the emerging and differing roles for AGOs and AGO-bound small RNAs in the male and female germlines, suggesting potential reasons for these sexual dimorphisms. Summary: This Review article summarizes the latest findings regarding roles for AGO proteins and their associated small RNAs in the male germline, with a particular focus on spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Hilz
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Andrew J Modzelewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Paula E Cohen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Andrew Grimson
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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43
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Moghbelinejad S, Najafipour R, Momeni A. Association of rs1057035polymorphism in microRNA biogenesis pathway gene (DICER1) with azoospermia among Iranian population. Genes Genomics 2017; 40:17-24. [DOI: 10.1007/s13258-017-0605-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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44
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Chen J, Cai T, Zheng C, Lin X, Wang G, Liao S, Wang X, Gan H, Zhang D, Hu X, Wang S, Li Z, Feng Y, Yang F, Han C. MicroRNA-202 maintains spermatogonial stem cells by inhibiting cell cycle regulators and RNA binding proteins. Nucleic Acids Res 2017; 45:4142-4157. [PMID: 27998933 PMCID: PMC5397178 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkw1287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
miRNAs play important roles during mammalian spermatogenesis. However, the function of most miRNAs in spermatogenesis and the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Here, we report that miR-202 is highly expressed in mouse spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), and is oppositely regulated by Glial cell-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (GDNF) and retinoic acid (RA), two key factors for SSC self-renewal and differentiation. We used inducible CRISPR-Cas9 to knockout miR-202 in cultured SSCs, and found that the knockout SSCs initiated premature differentiation accompanied by reduced stem cell activity and increased mitosis and apoptosis. Target genes were identified with iTRAQ-based proteomic analysis and RNA sequencing, and are enriched with cell cycle regulators and RNA-binding proteins. Rbfox2 and Cpeb1 were found to be direct targets of miR-202 and Rbfox2 but not Cpeb1, is essential for the differentiation of SSCs into meiotic cells. Accordingly, an SSC fate-regulatory network composed of signaling molecules of GDNF and RA, miR-202 and diverse downstream effectors has been identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,The Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Tanxi Cai
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,The Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Chunwei Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,The Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiwen Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Guojun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Shangying Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiuxia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Haiyun Gan
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Daoqin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,The Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiangjing Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,The Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Si Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yanmin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,The Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Fuquan Yang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,The Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Chunsheng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,The Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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45
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Tam C, Wong JH, Cheung RCF, Zuo T, Ng TB. Therapeutic potentials of short interfering RNAs. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2017; 101:7091-7111. [PMID: 28791440 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-017-8433-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Short interfering RNA (siRNA) is one of the members of the family of RNA interference (RNAi). Coupled with the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), siRNA is able to trigger the cleavage of target RNAs which serve as a defensive system against pathogens. Meanwhile, siRNA in gene silencing opens a new avenue for the treatment of various diseases. SiRNA can effectively inhibit viral infection and replication and suppress tumorigenesis and various inflammation-associated diseases and cardiovascular diseases by inactivation of viral genes and downregulation of oncogene expression. Recently, endogenous siRNAs (endo-siRNAs) were discovered in the reproductive cells of animals which may be associated with regulation of cell division. Structural modification of siRNA enhances the delivery, specificity and efficacy and bioavailability to the target cells. There are at least five categories of siRNA delivery systems including viral vectors, lipid-based nanoparticles, peptide-based nanoparticles, polymer-based nanoparticles and inorganic small molecules like metal ions, silica and carbon. Sufficient preclinical and clinical studies supported that siRNA may be a potential medicine for targeted therapy of various diseases in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chit Tam
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Lo Kwee-Seong Integrated Biomedical Sciences Building, Area 39, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Jack Ho Wong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Lo Kwee-Seong Integrated Biomedical Sciences Building, Area 39, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Randy Chi Fai Cheung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Lo Kwee-Seong Integrated Biomedical Sciences Building, Area 39, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tao Zuo
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tzi Bun Ng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Lo Kwee-Seong Integrated Biomedical Sciences Building, Area 39, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China.
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46
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Li G, Iqbal F, Wang L, Xu Z, Che X, Yu W, Shi L, Guo T, Zhou G, Jiang X, Zhang H, Zhang Y, Yu D. Meiotic defects and decreased expression of genes located around the chromosomal breakpoint in the testis of a patient with a novel 46,X,t(Y;1)(p11.3;p31) translocation. Int J Mol Med 2017. [PMID: 28627638 PMCID: PMC5504999 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.3029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Balanced translocations are known to be associated with infertility, spontaneous abortions and birth defects in mammals. Spermatocyte spreading and immunostaining were applied to detect meiotic prophase I progression, homologous chromosome pairing, synapsis and recombination in an azoospermic reciprocal translocation 46,X,t(Y;1)(p11.3;p31) carrier. Histological examination of testicular sections revealed a severely reduced number of germ cells with no spermatids or sperm in the carrier. A significant reduction in XY recombination was observed in the patient. The number of MLH1 foci on autosomes that are not involved in the translocation per cell was also significantly decreased in our patient as compared to the controls, which indicates an inter-chromosomal effect (ICE) of the translocation on recombination. An increase in leptotene (P<0.001) and zygotene (P<0.001) and a decrease in pachytene spermatocytes (P<0.001) were observed in the carrier when compared with the controls, indicating disturbed meiotic progression in the patient. Increased RAD51 foci during pachytene (P=0.02) in the spermatocytes of the patient were noted. A decreased expression of the genes (USP1, INSL5, LEPR and MSH4) critical for meiosis/spermatogenesis and located around the breakpoint region of chromosome 1 was observed in the 46,X,t(Y;1) carrier, which may further exacerbate the meiotic failure such as reduced recombination on autosomes and ultimately cause spermatogenesis arrest. In summary, we report a series of events that may have caused infertility in our 46,X,t(Y;1) carrier. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report shedding light on how, possibly, a reciprocal translocation affects meiosis at the molecular level in azoospermia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangyuan Li
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, P.R. China
| | - Furhan Iqbal
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale and School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230022, P.R. China
| | - Liu Wang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale and School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230022, P.R. China
| | - Zhipeng Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Che
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, P.R. China
| | - Wen Yu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, P.R. China
| | - Liang Shi
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, P.R. China
| | - Tonghang Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, P.R. China
| | - Guixiang Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohua Jiang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale and School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230022, P.R. China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale and School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230022, P.R. China
| | - Yuanwei Zhang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale and School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230022, P.R. China
| | - Dexin Yu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, P.R. China
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47
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Piatek MJ, Henderson V, Fearn A, Chaudhry B, Werner A. Ectopically expressed Slc34a2a sense-antisense transcripts cause a cerebellar phenotype in zebrafish embryos depending on RNA complementarity and Dicer. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178219. [PMID: 28542524 PMCID: PMC5436864 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural antisense transcripts (NATs) are complementary to protein coding genes and potentially regulate their expression. Despite widespread occurrence of NATs in the genomes of higher eukaryotes, their biological role and mechanism of action is poorly understood. Zebrafish embryos offer a unique model system to study sense-antisense transcript interplay at whole organism level. Here, we investigate putative antisense transcript-mediated mechanisms by ectopically co-expressing the complementary transcripts during early zebrafish development. In zebrafish the gene Slc34a2a (Na-phosphate transporter) is bi-directionally transcribed, the NAT predominantly during early development up to 48 hours after fertilization. Declining levels of the NAT, Slc34a2a(as), coincide with an increase of the sense transcript. At that time, sense and antisense transcripts co-localize in the endoderm at near equal amounts. Ectopic expression of the sense transcript during embryogenesis leads to specific failure to develop a cerebellum. The defect is RNA-mediated and dependent on sense-antisense complementarity. Overexpression of a Slc34a2a paralogue (Slc34a2b) or the NAT itself had no phenotypic consequences. Knockdown of Dicer rescued the brain defect suggesting that RNA interference is required to mediate the phenotype. Our results corroborate previous reports of Slc34a2a-related endo-siRNAs in two days old zebrafish embryos and emphasize the importance of coordinated expression of sense-antisense transcripts. Our findings suggest that RNAi is involved in gene regulation by certain natural antisense RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica J. Piatek
- RNA Interest Group, Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Henderson
- RNA Interest Group, Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Fearn
- RNA Interest Group, Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Bill Chaudhry
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, International Centre for Life, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Andreas Werner
- RNA Interest Group, Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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48
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Chen X, Li X, Guo J, Zhang P, Zeng W. The roles of microRNAs in regulation of mammalian spermatogenesis. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2017; 8:35. [PMID: 28469844 PMCID: PMC5410700 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-017-0166-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis contains three continuous and organized processes, by which spermatogonia undergo mitosis and differentiate to spermatocytes, follow on meiosis to form haploid spermatids and ultimately transform into spermatozoa. These processes require an accurately, spatially and temporally regulated gene expression patterns. The microRNAs are a novel class of post-transcriptional regulators. Cumulating evidences have demonstrated that microRNAs are expressed in a cell-specific or stage-specific manner during spermatogenesis. In this review, we focus on the roles of microRNAs in spermatogenesis. We highlight that N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is involved in the biogenesis of microRNAs and miRNA regulates the m6A modification on mRNA, and that specific miRNAs have been exploited as potential biomarkers for the male factor infertility, which will provide insightful understanding of microRNA roles in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxu Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100 China
| | - Xueliang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100 China
| | - Jiayin Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100 China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100 China
| | - Wenxian Zeng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100 China
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Si H, Cao Y, Zhu H, Li D, Lv Z, Sheng Q, Nie Z. Transposable Element Bm1645 is a Source of BmAGO2-associated Small RNAs that affect its expression in Bombyx mori. BMC Genomics 2017; 18:201. [PMID: 28231766 PMCID: PMC5324241 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-017-3598-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A transposable element (TE) is a DNA fragment that can change its position within a genome. Transposable elements play important roles in maintaining the stability and diversity of organisms by transposition. Recent studies have shown that approximately half of the genes in Bombyx mori are TEs. Results We systematically identified and analyzed the BmAGO2-associated TEs, which exceed 100 in the B. mori genome. Additionally, we also mapped the small RNAs associated with BmAGO2 in B.mori. The transposon Bm1645 is the most abundant TE associated with BmAGO2, and Bm1645-derived small RNAs represent a small RNA pool. We determined the expression patterns of several Bm1645-derived small RNAs by northern blotting, and the results showed there was differential expression of multiple small RNAs in normal and BmNPV-infected BmN cells and silkworms from various developmental stages. We confirmed that four TE-siRNAs could bind to BmAGO2 using EMSA and also validated the recognition sites of these four TE-siRNAs in Bm1645 by dual-luciferase reporter assays. Furthermore, qRT-PCR analysis revealed the overexpression of the four TE-siRNAs could downregulate the expression of Bm1645 in BmN cells, and the transcription of Bm1645 was upregulated by the downregulation of BmAGO2. Conclusions Our results suggest Bm1645 functions as a source of small RNAs pool and this pool can produce many BmAGO2-associated small RNAs that regulate TE’s expression. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-017-3598-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongqiang Si
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunjie Cao
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Honglin Zhu
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhengbing Lv
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qing Sheng
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zuoming Nie
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China. .,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Hilz S, Fogarty EA, Modzelewski AJ, Cohen PE, Grimson A. Transcriptome profiling of the developing male germ line identifies the miR-29 family as a global regulator during meiosis. RNA Biol 2016; 14:219-235. [PMID: 27981880 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2016.1270002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are essential for spermatogenesis. However, the stage-specific requirements for particular miRNAs in the male mammalian germ line remain largely uncharacterized. The miR-34 family is, to date, the only miRNA proven to be necessary for the production of sperm in mammals, though its germline roles are poorly understood. Here, we generate and analyze paired small RNA and mRNA profiles across different stages of germline development in male mice, focusing on time points shortly before and during meiotic prophase I. We show that in addition to miR-34, miR-29 also mediates widespread repression of mRNA targets during meiotic prophase I in the male mouse germline. Furthermore, we demonstrate that predicted miR-29 target mRNAs in meiotic cells are largely distinct from those of miR-34, indicating that miR-29 performs a regulatory function independent of miR-34. Prior to this work, no germline role has been attributed to miR-29. To begin to understand roles for miR-29 in the germ line, we identify targets of miR-29 undergoing post transcriptional downregulation during meiotic prophase I, which likely correspond to the direct targets of miR-29. Interestingly, candidate direct targets of miR-29 are enriched in transcripts encoding extracellular matrix components. Our results implicate the miR-29 family as an important regulatory factor during male meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Hilz
- a Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics , Cornell University , Ithaca , NY , USA.,b Department of Neurological Surgery , University of California San Francisco , San Francisco , CA , USA
| | - Elizabeth A Fogarty
- a Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics , Cornell University , Ithaca , NY , USA
| | - Andrew J Modzelewski
- c Department of Biomedical Sciences , Cornell University , Ithaca , NY , USA.,d Department of Molecular and Cell Biology , University of California Berkeley , Berkeley , CA , USA
| | - Paula E Cohen
- c Department of Biomedical Sciences , Cornell University , Ithaca , NY , USA
| | - Andrew Grimson
- a Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics , Cornell University , Ithaca , NY , USA
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