1
|
Piechka A, Sparanese S, Witherspoon L, Hach F, Flannigan R. Molecular mechanisms of cellular dysfunction in testes from men with non-obstructive azoospermia. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:67-90. [PMID: 38110528 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00837-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Male factor infertility affects 50% of infertile couples worldwide; the most severe form, non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), affects 10-15% of infertile males. Treatment for individuals with NOA is limited to microsurgical sperm extraction paired with in vitro fertilization intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Unfortunately, spermatozoa are only retrieved in ~50% of patients, resulting in live birth rates of 21-46%. Regenerative therapies could provide a solution; however, understanding the cell-type-specific mechanisms of cellular dysfunction is a fundamental necessity to develop precision medicine strategies that could overcome these abnormalities and promote regeneration of spermatogenesis. A number of mechanisms of cellular dysfunction have been elucidated in NOA testicular cells. These mechanisms include abnormalities in both somatic cells and germ cells in NOA testes, such as somatic cell immaturity, aberrant growth factor signalling, increased inflammation, increased apoptosis and abnormal extracellular matrix regulation. Future cell-type-specific investigations in identifying modulators of cellular transcription and translation will be key to understanding upstream dysregulation, and these studies will require development of in vitro models to functionally interrogate spermatogenic niche dysfunction in both somatic and germ cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arina Piechka
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sydney Sparanese
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Luke Witherspoon
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Faraz Hach
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ryan Flannigan
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xu X, Wang Y, Chen J, Du X, Yao L, Xu J, Zhang Y, Huang Y, Wang Y. Mutation of Serine protease 1 Induces Male Sterility in Bombyx mori. Front Physiol 2022; 13:828859. [PMID: 35222089 PMCID: PMC8867212 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.828859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Serine proteases are important in reproduction, embryonic development, cell differentiation, apoptosis, and immunity. The genes encoding some serine proteases are essential for male fertility in both humans and rodents and are functionally conserved among metazoan. For example, the Serine protease 1 (Ser1) gene determines male reproductive success in the model lepidopteran insect Bombyx mori. In this study, we explored the function of BmSer1 through transgenic CRISPR/Cas9 technology-mediated mutations in silkworm. We found that the mutation of BmSer1 gene resulted in male sterility but had no effect on female fertility. Male mutants produce normal eupyrene sperm bundles, but the sperm bundles do not dissociate into single sperm. Male sterility caused by the BmSer1 gene mutation was inherited stably through female individuals. Therefore, the serine protease encoded by BmSer1 is essential for male reproductive success in lepidopterans and is a potential target gene for biological reproductive regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xia Xu
- Institute of Sericulture and Tea, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yaohui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jine Chen
- Institute of Sericulture and Tea, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xin Du
- Institute of Sericulture and Tea, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lusong Yao
- Institute of Sericulture and Tea, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Institute of Sericulture and Tea, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongping Huang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yongping Huang,
| | - Yongqiang Wang
- Institute of Sericulture and Tea, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- Yongqiang Wang,
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lamichhaney S, Catullo R, Keogh JS, Clulow S, Edwards SV, Ezaz T. A bird-like genome from a frog: Mechanisms of genome size reduction in the ornate burrowing frog, Platyplectrum ornatum. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2011649118. [PMID: 33836564 PMCID: PMC7980411 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2011649118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The diversity of genome sizes across the tree of life is of key interest in evolutionary biology. Various correlates of variation in genome size, such as accumulation of transposable elements (TEs) or rate of DNA gain and loss, are well known, but the underlying molecular mechanisms driving or constraining genome size are poorly understood. Here, we study one of the smallest genomes among frogs characterized thus far, that of the ornate burrowing frog (Platyplectrum ornatum) from Australia, and compare it to other published frog and vertebrate genomes to examine the forces driving reduction in genome size. At ∼1.06 gigabases (Gb), the P. ornatum genome is like that of birds, revealing four major mechanisms underlying TE dynamics: reduced abundance of all major classes of TEs; increased net deletion bias in TEs; drastic reduction in intron lengths; and expansion via gene duplication of the repertoire of TE-suppressing Piwi genes, accompanied by increased expression of Piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA)-based TE-silencing pathway genes in germline cells. Transcriptomes from multiple tissues in both sexes corroborate these results and provide insight into sex-differentiation pathways in Platyplectrum Genome skimming of two closely related frog species (Lechriodus fletcheri and Limnodynastes fletcheri) confirms a reduction in TEs as a major driver of genome reduction in Platyplectrum and supports a macroevolutionary scenario of small genome size in frogs driven by convergence in life history, especially rapid tadpole development and tadpole diet. The P. ornatum genome offers a model for future comparative studies on mechanisms of genome size reduction in amphibians and vertebrates generally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sangeet Lamichhaney
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
- Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - Renee Catullo
- Division of Ecology and Evolution, Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Acton, ACT, Australia 2601
- Australian National Insect Collection and Future Science Platform Environomics, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization, Acton, ACT, Australia 2601
| | - J Scott Keogh
- Division of Ecology and Evolution, Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Acton, ACT, Australia 2601
| | - Simon Clulow
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia 2109
| | - Scott V Edwards
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138;
- Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - Tariq Ezaz
- Institute for Applied Ecology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia 2617
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Erukainure OL, Atolani O, Banerjee P, Abel R, Pooe OJ, Adeyemi OS, Preissner R, Chukwuma CI, Koorbanally NA, Islam MS. Oxidative testicular injury: effect of l-leucine on redox, cholinergic and purinergic dysfunctions, and dysregulated metabolic pathways. Amino Acids 2021; 53:359-380. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-021-02954-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
5
|
Xiong W, Wang Z, Shen C. An update of the regulatory factors of sperm migration from the uterus into the oviduct by genetically manipulated mice. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:935-955. [PMID: 31131960 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental MedicineShanghai Rui‐Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
- School of Life Sciences and BiochemistryShanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai China
| | - Zhugang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental MedicineShanghai Rui‐Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | - Chunling Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental MedicineShanghai Rui‐Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Thélie A, Rehault-Godbert S, Poirier JC, Govoroun M, Fouchécourt S, Blesbois E. The seminal acrosin-inhibitor ClTI1/SPINK2 is a fertility-associated marker in the chicken. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:762-775. [PMID: 31033055 PMCID: PMC6767445 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The seminal plasma is a very complex fluid, which surrounds sperm in semen. It contains numerous proteins including proteases and protease inhibitors that regulate proteolytic processes associated with protein activation and degradation. We previously identified a seminal protein, chicken liver trypsin inhibitor 1 (ClTI-1) over expressed in semen of roosters with high fertility, suggesting a role in male fertility. In the present study, we showed that ClTI-1 gene is actually SPINK2. Using normal healthy adult roosters, we showed that SPINK2 amount in seminal plasma was positively correlated with male fertility in chicken lines with highly contrasted genetic backgrounds (broiler and layer lines). Using affinity chromatography combined to mass spectrometry analysis and kinetic assays, we demonstrated for the first time that two chicken acrosin isoforms (acrosin and acrosin-like proteins) are the physiological serine protease targets of SPINK2 inhibitor. SPINK2 transcript was overexpressed all along the male tract, and the protein was present in the lumen as expected for secreted proteins. Altogether, these data emphasize the role of seminal SPINK2 Kazal-type inhibitor as an important actor of fertility in birds through its inhibitory action on acrosin isoforms proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aurore Thélie
- PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | | | | | - Marina Govoroun
- PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chen L, Huang R, Zhu D, Wang Y, Mehjabin R, Li Y, Liao L, He L, Zhu Z, Wang Y. Cloning of six serpin genes and their responses to GCRV infection in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella). FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 86:93-100. [PMID: 30439497 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2018.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2018] [Revised: 09/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Grass carp, an economically important aquaculture fish, is very sensitive to Grass Carp Reovirus (GCRV). Haemorrhagic disease caused by GCRV infection can cause large-scale death of first-year grass carp, thereby severely restricting the intensive culture. Serpins (serine protease inhibitors) belong to the protease inhibitor gene family and are involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes, particularly coagulation and anticoagulation. Reports on grass carp serpins are scarce. Thus, we cloned six grass carp serpin genes (serpinb1, serpinc1, serpind1, serpinf1, serpinf2b and serping1) in this study. Molecular evolution showed that serpins between grass carp and zebrafish or carp are the closest relatives. SERPIN domains in these 6 serpins and reactive centre loop (RCL) along with their cleavage sites of 5 serpins (serpinb1, serpinc1, serpind1, serpinf2b and serping1) were predicted. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) showed that these serpins displayed tissue significance. Among them, serpinc1, serpind1, serpinf2b and serping1 had the highest expression levels in the liver. After GCRV infection, RT-qPCR showed that the liver-enriched serpins were significantly changed. Key procoagulant factor genes (kng-1, f2, f3a, f3b and f7) and anticoagulant genes (tpa, plg, thbd, proc and pros) also showed significant changes on the mRNA level. Comprehensive comparative analysis showed that the up-regulated expression of key clotting factor genes was more prominent than that of main anti-coagulation factor genes. Thus, the function of coagulation may be more dominant in grass carp during the GCRV infection, which may cause overproduction of thrombi. The serpins were involved in GCRV infection and liver-enriched serpins participate in the interaction between coagulation and anticoagulation. This study provided new insights into further research on the biological functions of grass carp serpins and clarifying the molecular mechanism of GCRV affecting the homeostasis of grass carp blood environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liangming Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Rong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China.
| | - Denghui Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | | | - Rumana Mehjabin
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yongming Li
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Lanjie Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Libo He
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Zuoyan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Yaping Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Martinez-Soto JC, Landeras J, Mollá M, Mondejar I, Nicolás M, Fernández-Olmedilla L, Trabalón M, Coy P, Gadea J. Total urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) levels in seminal plasma are associated with positive assisted reproductive technology outcomes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:1091-1101. [PMID: 29572694 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1164-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The plasminogen/plasmin system is an important extracellular protease system whose function has been implicated in male reproductive function. However, its clinical relevance to fertility in human assisted reproduction technologies has not been systematically investigated. Here, we examined whether total and active populations of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) in human seminal plasma and spermatozoa are predictive of pregnancy outcome in couples undergoing insemination or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). METHODS Seminal samples from 182 men, 5 donors, 21 patients attending the clinic for infertility screening, and 156 for assisted reproduction technology (ART) treatment (insemination and ICSI), were evaluated. Total uPA in seminal plasma and spermatozoa as well as active uPA in seminal plasma were measured by ELISA. Sperm quality parameters and fertility outcomes following insemination or ICSI were correlated with the uPA values. RESULTS Active uPA in seminal plasma was positively correlated to the volume of the ejaculate, total number of spermatozoa in the ejaculate, and total motility. However, these values were not prognostic of fertility outcomes. Total uPA in spermatozoa was inversely related to sperm concentration, total sperm in ejaculate, morphology, and total and progressive motility, and this measure was not related to fertility. Importantly, however, higher values of total uPA in seminal plasma were detected in cases that resulted in pregnancy compared to those that did not follow insemination and ICSI treatment. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these findings lay the foundation for further understanding the mechanism by which total uPA in seminal plasma affects fertility and how this marker can be used as a predictor of ART outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos Martinez-Soto
- IVI Murcia, 30008, Murcia, Spain.,Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - José Landeras
- IVI Murcia, 30008, Murcia, Spain.,Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Marta Mollá
- IVI Murcia, 30008, Murcia, Spain.,Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Irene Mondejar
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.,Department of Physiology, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Pilar Coy
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.,Department of Physiology, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Joaquín Gadea
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain. .,Department of Physiology, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Shin WJ, Seong BL. Type II transmembrane serine proteases as potential target for anti-influenza drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2017; 12:1139-1152. [DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2017.1372417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Woo-Jin Shin
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Baik Lin Seong
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
- Vaccine Translational Research Center, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
McLennan IS, Pankhurst MW. Anti-Müllerian hormone is a gonadal cytokine with two circulating forms and cryptic actions. J Endocrinol 2015; 226:R45-57. [PMID: 26163524 DOI: 10.1530/joe-15-0206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a multi-faceted gonadal cytokine. It is present in all vertebrates with its original function in phylogeny being as a regulator of germ cells in both sexes, and as a prime inducer of the male phenotype. Its ancient functions appear to be broadly conserved in mammals, but with this being obscured by its overt role in triggering the regression of the Müllerian ducts in male embryos. Sertoli and ovarian follicular cells primarily release AMH as a prohormone (proAMH), which forms a stable complex (AMHN,C) after cleavage by subtilisin/kexin-type proprotein convertases or serine proteinases. Circulating AMH is a mixture of proAMH and AMHN,C, suggesting that proAMH is activated within the gonads and putatively by its endocrine target-cells. The gonadal expression of the cleavage enzymes is subject to complex regulation, and the preliminary data suggest that this influences the relative proportions of proAMH and AMHN,C in the circulation. AMH shares an intracellular pathway with the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and growth differentiation factor (GDF) ligands. AMH is male specific during the initial stage of development, and theoretically should produce male biases throughout the body by adding a male-specific amplification of BMP/GDF signalling. Consistent with this, some of the male biases in neuron number and the non-sexual behaviours of mice are dependent on AMH. After puberty, circulating levels of AMH are similar in men and women. Putatively, the function of AMH in adulthood maybe to add a gonadal influence to BMP/GDF-regulated homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian S McLennan
- Department of AnatomyUniversity of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Michael W Pankhurst
- Department of AnatomyUniversity of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Holembowski L, Kramer D, Riedel D, Sordella R, Nemajerova A, Dobbelstein M, Moll UM. TAp73 is essential for germ cell adhesion and maturation in testis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 204:1173-90. [PMID: 24662569 PMCID: PMC3971741 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201306066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The p53 family member TAp73 is required for sperm maturation through promotion of adhesion between developing germ cells and Sertoli nurse cells. A core evolutionary function of the p53 family is to protect the genomic integrity of gametes. However, the role of p73 in the male germ line is unknown. Here, we reveal that TAp73 unexpectedly functions as an adhesion and maturation factor of the seminiferous epithelium orchestrating spermiogenesis. TAp73 knockout (TAp73KO) and p73KO mice, but not ΔNp73KO mice, display a “near-empty seminiferous tubule” phenotype due to massive premature loss of immature germ cells. The cellular basis of this phenotype is defective cell–cell adhesions of developing germ cells to Sertoli nurse cells, with likely secondary degeneration of Sertoli cells, including the blood–testis barrier, which leads to disruption of the adhesive integrity and maturation of the germ epithelium. At the molecular level, TAp73, which is produced in germ cells, controls a coordinated transcriptional program of adhesion- and migration-related proteins including peptidase inhibitors, proteases, receptors, and integrins required for germ–Sertoli cell adhesion and dynamic junctional restructuring. Thus, we propose the testis as a unique organ with strict division of labor among all family members: p63 and p53 safeguard germ line fidelity, whereas TAp73 ensures fertility by enabling sperm maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lena Holembowski
- Department of Molecular Oncology, University of Göttingen, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Dzyuba B, Cosson J, Boryshpolets S, Bondarenko O, Dzyuba V, Prokopchuk G, Gazo I, Rodina M, Linhart O. In vitro sperm maturation in sterlet, Acipenser ruthenus. Reprod Biol 2014; 14:160-3. [PMID: 24856476 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2014.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to examine sperm maturation in sturgeon and to establish the localization of the maturation. We demonstrated that sperm maturation occurs in sturgeon outside the testes via dilution of sperm by urine. The process involves the participation of high molecular weight (>10kDa) substances and calcium ions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Borys Dzyuba
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zatisi 728/II, 38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic.
| | - Jacky Cosson
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zatisi 728/II, 38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Sergii Boryshpolets
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zatisi 728/II, 38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Olga Bondarenko
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zatisi 728/II, 38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Viktoriya Dzyuba
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zatisi 728/II, 38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic; Institute of Biology, V.N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Kharkiv, Ukraine
| | - Galina Prokopchuk
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zatisi 728/II, 38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Ievgeniia Gazo
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zatisi 728/II, 38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Rodina
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zatisi 728/II, 38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Otomar Linhart
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zatisi 728/II, 38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yoneda R, Takahashi T, Matsui H, Takano N, Hasebe Y, Ogiwara K, Kimura AP. Three testis-specific paralogous serine proteases play different roles in murine spermatogenesis and are involved in germ cell survival during meiosis. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:118. [PMID: 23536369 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.106328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process that generates spermatozoa; its molecular mechanisms are not completely understood. Here we focused on the functions of three testis-specific serine proteases: Prss42/Tessp-2, Prss43/Tessp-3, and Prss44/Tessp-4. These protease genes, which constitute a gene cluster on chromosome 9F2-F3, were presumed to be paralogs and were expressed only in the testis. By investigating their mRNA distribution, we found that all three genes were expressed in primary and secondary spermatocytes. However, interestingly, the translated proteins were produced at different locations. Prss42/Tessp-2 was found in the membranes and cytoplasm of secondary spermatocytes and spermatids, whereas Prss43/Tessp-3 was present only in the membranes of spermatocytes and spermatids. Prss44/Tessp-4 was detected in the cytoplasm of spermatocytes and spermatids. To assess the roles of these proteases in spermatogenesis, we used organ culture of mouse testis fragments. Adding antibodies against Prss42/Tessp-2 and Prss43/Tessp-3 resulted in meiotic arrest at the stage when each protease was beginning to be translated. Furthermore, the number of apoptotic cells dramatically increased after the addition of these antibodies. These results strongly suggest that the three paralogous Prss/Tessp proteases play different roles in spermatogenesis and that Prss42/Tessp-2 and Prss43/Tessp-3 are required for germ cell survival during meiosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryoma Yoneda
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Shen C, Kuang Y, Liu J, Feng J, Chen X, Wu W, Chi J, Tang L, Wang Y, Fei J, Wang Z. Prss37 Is Required for Male Fertility in the Mouse1. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:123. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.107086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
|
15
|
In vivo and in vitro expression of the plasminogen activators and urokinase type plasminogen activator receptor (u-PAR) in the pig oviduct. Anim Reprod Sci 2012; 136:90-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2012.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2011] [Revised: 09/17/2012] [Accepted: 09/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
16
|
Silva EJR, Patrão MTCC, Tsuruta JK, O'Rand MG, Avellar MCW. Epididymal protease inhibitor (EPPIN) is differentially expressed in the male rat reproductive tract and immunolocalized in maturing spermatozoa. Mol Reprod Dev 2012; 79:832-42. [PMID: 23070980 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2012] [Accepted: 09/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
EPPIN (epididymal protease inhibitor; SPINLW1), an antimicrobial cysteine-rich protein containing both Kunitz and whey acidic protein (WAP)-type four disulfide core protease inhibitor consensus sequences, is a target for male contraception because of its critical role in sperm motility. Here, we characterized EPPIN's expression and cellular distribution in rat tissues and its in vivo regulation by androgens in the epididymis. EPPIN (mRNA and protein) was abundantly expressed in the rat testis and epididymis; we also found that the vas deferens, seminal vesicles, and brain were novel sites of EPPIN expression. PCR studies demonstrated that in addition to Sertoli cells, spermatogenic cells expressed Eppin mRNA. EPPIN was immunolocalized in Sertoli cells and spermatogenic cells (pachytene spermatocytes and round and elongated spermatids) and in epithelial cells and spermatozoa from efferent ductules and epididymis. EPPIN staining was observed on the middle and principal pieces of the flagellum of testicular spermatozoa. Epididymal spermatozoa had more intense EPPIN staining on the flagellum, and the EPPIN staining became apparent on the head and neck regions. This suggested that the EPPIN found on maturing spermatozoa was secreted primarily by the epithelial cells of the epididymis. Surgical castration down-regulated EPPIN expression levels (mRNA and protein) in the caput and cauda epididymis, an effect reversed by testosterone replacement. Altogether, our data suggested that EPPIN expression in rats is more widespread than in humans and mice, and is androgen-dependent in the epididymis. This species could be used as an experimental model to further study EPPIN's role in male fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erick J R Silva
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - Escola Paulista de Medicina, SP, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Spermiation--the release of mature spermatozoa from Sertoli cells into the seminiferous tubule lumen--occurs by the disruption of an anchoring device known as the apical ectoplasmic specialization (apical ES). At the same time, the blood-testis barrier (BTB) undergoes extensive restructuring to facilitate the transit of preleptotene spermatocytes. While these two cellular events take place at opposite ends of the Sertoli cell epithelium, the events are in fact tightly coordinated, as any disruption in either process will lead to infertility. A local regulatory axis exists between the apical ES and the BTB in which biologically active laminin fragments produced at the apical ES by the action of matrix metalloproteinase 2 can regulate BTB restructuring directly or indirectly via the hemidesmosome. Equally important, polarity proteins play a crucial part in coordinating cellular events within this apical ES-BTB-hemidesmosome axis. Additionally, testosterone and cytokines work in concert to facilitate BTB restructuring, which enables the transit of spermatocytes while maintaining immunological barrier function. Herein, we will discuss this important autocrine-based cellular axis that parallels the hormonal-based hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis that regulates spermatogenesis. This local regulatory axis is the emerging target for male contraception.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Hermo L, Pelletier RM, Cyr DG, Smith CE. Surfing the wave, cycle, life history, and genes/proteins expressed by testicular germ cells. Part 5: intercellular junctions and contacts between germs cells and Sertoli cells and their regulatory interactions, testicular cholesterol, and genes/proteins associated with more than one germ cell generation. Microsc Res Tech 2010; 73:409-94. [PMID: 19941291 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.20786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In the testis, cell adhesion and junctional molecules permit specific interactions and intracellular communication between germ and Sertoli cells and apposed Sertoli cells. Among the many adhesion family of proteins, NCAM, nectin and nectin-like, catenins, and cadherens will be discussed, along with gap junctions between germ and Sertoli cells and the many members of the connexin family. The blood-testis barrier separates the haploid spermatids from blood borne elements. In the barrier, the intercellular junctions consist of many proteins such as occludin, tricellulin, and claudins. Changes in the expression of cell adhesion molecules are also an essential part of the mechanism that allows germ cells to move from the basal compartment of the seminiferous tubule to the adluminal compartment thus crossing the blood-testis barrier and well-defined proteins have been shown to assist in this process. Several structural components show interactions between germ cells to Sertoli cells such as the ectoplasmic specialization which are more closely related to Sertoli cells and tubulobulbar complexes that are processes of elongating spermatids embedded into Sertoli cells. Germ cells also modify several Sertoli functions and this also appears to be the case for residual bodies. Cholesterol plays a significant role during spermatogenesis and is essential for germ cell development. Lastly, we list genes/proteins that are expressed not only in any one specific generation of germ cells but across more than one generation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louis Hermo
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 2B2.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Variants in the Eppin gene show association with semen quality in Han-Chinese population. Reprod Biomed Online 2010; 20:125-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2009.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2009] [Revised: 04/14/2009] [Accepted: 10/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
20
|
Davidová N, Jonáková V, Maňásková-Postlerová P. Expression and localization of acrosin inhibitor in boar reproductive tract. Cell Tissue Res 2009; 338:303-11. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-009-0876-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2009] [Accepted: 09/02/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
21
|
Bian ZH, Zhang J, Ding XL, Zhang B, Wang ZJ, Lu CC, Song L, Wang SL, Wang XR. Localization of epididymal protease inhibitor in adult rat and its transcription profile in testis during postnatal development. Asian J Androl 2009; 11:731-9. [PMID: 19801999 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2009.66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate the expression pattern of rat Eppin (epididymal protease inhibitor; official symbol Spinlw1), we detected mRNA transcripts and subsequent protein translation of Eppin in several sorts of tissues by RT-PCR and western blotting. Then immunohistochemistry was performed for more detailed observation. The testicular transcription level was monitored by real-time PCR throughout postnatal development. We found that rat Eppin was specifically expressed in the testis and epididymis. The testicular transcription was slight in neonatal (1-day) and infantile stages (5-, 7- and 10-day). It increased sharply thereafter, with maximum expression level (about 38-fold compared with that of 1-day old rat) detected in prepubertal stage (15-day). Then a slightly declined but stable level (about 20-fold compared with that of 1-day old rat) was kept in pubertal-early adult (30-day) and adult (60-day) stages of postnatal maturation. In the adult rat, EPPIN protein was mainly localized in the elongated spermatids and epididymal epithelial cells. Sperm in the epididymal duct were all covered with EPPIN and its level kept constant during incubation under conditions used to achieve capacitation. Its stage-specific expression in the testis suggests that EPPIN may be important during spermatogenesis especially for the spermatid elongation. The abundant production of epididymal EPPIN indicated indirectly that it might play a role in the function of the epididymis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeng-Hui Bian
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Mazaud-Guittot S, Meugnier E, Pesenti S, Wu X, Vidal H, Gow A, Le Magueresse-Battistoni B. Claudin 11 deficiency in mice results in loss of the Sertoli cell epithelial phenotype in the testis. Biol Reprod 2009; 82:202-13. [PMID: 19741204 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.078907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue integrity relies on barriers formed between epithelial cells. In the testis, the barrier is formed at the initiation of puberty by a tight junction complex between adjacent Sertoli cells, thereby defining an adluminal compartment where meiosis and spermiogenesis occur. Claudin 11 is an obligatory protein for tight junction formation and barrier integrity in the testis. It is expressed by Sertoli cells, and spermatogenesis does not proceed beyond meiosis in its absence, resulting in male sterility. Sertoli cell maturation--arrest of proliferation and expression of proteins to support germ cell development--parallels tight junction assembly; however, the pathophysiology underlying the loss of tight junctions in the mature testis remains largely undefined. Here, using immunohistochemistry and microarrays we demonstrate that adult Cldn11(-/-) mouse Sertoli cells can proliferate while maintaining expression of mature markers. Sertoli cells detach from the basement membrane, acquire a fibroblast cell shape, are eliminated through the lumen together with apoptotic germ cells, and are found in epididymis. These changes are associated with tight junction regulation as well as actin-related and cell cycle gene expression. Thus, Cldn11(-/-) Sertoli cells exhibit a unique phenotype whereby loss of tight junction integrity results in loss of the epithelial phenotype.
Collapse
|
23
|
Dubois V, Van Ginneken C, De Cock H, Lambeir AM, Van der Veken P, Augustyns K, Chen X, Scharpé S, De Meester I. Enzyme activity and immunohistochemical localization of dipeptidyl peptidase 8 and 9 in male reproductive tissues. J Histochem Cytochem 2009; 57:531-41. [PMID: 19188489 PMCID: PMC2690406 DOI: 10.1369/jhc.2009.952739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2008] [Accepted: 01/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The mRNA expression pattern of dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP) 8 and DPP9, two DPP4 homologs, was studied previously and showed a broad tissue distribution. In this study, protein expression and activity of DPP8 and DPP9 were investigated in male reproductive tissues of different mammals. Based on specific DPP activities and inhibition profiles, the proline-selective DPP activity in the bovine and rat testis could predominantly be attributed to DPP8/9 and not to DPP4. This is in contrast to the epididymis, where most of the activity was caused by DPP4. Bovine sperm preparations had very low or undetectable DPP8/9 activity. After characterization of polyclonal antibodies specific for DPP8 or DPP9, we could localize both enzymes in seminiferous tubules of the testis. A specific staining for DPP9 was found associated with spermatozoids embedded in the epithelium, just before their release into the lumen, and in spermatids. DPP8 was localized in spermatozoids in an earlier stage of maturation. These findings help to provide insight into the physiological role of DPP4-like enzymes in the male reproductive system. This manuscript contains online supplemental material at http://www.jhc.org. Please visit this article online to view these materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Véronique Dubois
- Laboratory of Medical Biochemistry, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Young JS, Guttman JA, Vaid KS, Vogl AW. Tubulobulbar complexes are intercellular podosome-like structures that internalize intact intercellular junctions during epithelial remodeling events in the rat testis. Biol Reprod 2008; 80:162-74. [PMID: 18799754 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.070623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Tubulobulbar complexes are actin-related double-membrane projections that resemble podosomes in other systems and form at intercellular junctions in the seminiferous epithelium of the mammalian testis. They are proposed to internalize intact junctions during sperm release and during the translocation of spermatocytes through basal junction complexes between neighboring Sertoli cells. In this study we probe apical tubulobulbar complexes in fixed epithelial fragments and fixed frozen sections of rat and mouse testes for junction molecules reported to be present at apical sites of attachment (ectoplasmic specializations) between Sertoli cells and spermatids. The adhesion molecules nectin 2 (PVRL2), nectin 3 (PVRL3) and alpha 6 integrin (ITGA6) are present in the elongate parts of tubulobulbar complexes and concentrated at their distal ends. Tubulobulbar complexes contain cortactin (CTTN), a key component of podosomes, and vesicles at the distal ends of tubulobulbar complexes that contain junction molecules are related to early endosome antigen (EEA1). N-cadherin (CDH2), a protein reported to be present at ectoplasmic specializations, is not localized to these unique junctions or to tubulobulbar complexes but, rather, is primarily concentrated at desmosomes in basal regions of the epithelium. Our results are consistent with the conclusion that tubulobulbar complexes are podosome-like structures that are responsible for internalizing intact intercellular junctions during spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J'Nelle S Young
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Life Sciences Centre, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z3
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Mazaud Guittot S, Vérot A, Odet F, Chauvin MA, le Magueresse-Battistoni B. A comprehensive survey of the laminins and collagens type IV expressed in mouse Leydig cells and their regulation by LH/hCG. Reproduction 2008; 135:479-88. [PMID: 18367508 DOI: 10.1530/rep-07-0561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins have been shown to alter Leydig cell steroidogenesis in vitro, substantiating the hypothesis that Leydig cell steroidogenic activity and matrix environment are interdependent events. However, the nature of the ECM components synthesized by Leydig cells and their regulation by LH/human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) remain unknown. Here, we examine the occurrence of the 11 laminin subunits and the 6 alpha chains of collagen IV (COL4A1-6) by RT-PCR in Leydig cells cultured with or without LH/hCG. Leydig cells were a tumor Leydig cell line (mLTC-1) or 8-week-old mice Leydig cells. Based on PCR data, it is suggested that normal Leydig cells may synthesize a maximum of 11 laminin heterotrimers and the 6 alpha chains of collagen IV. They also may synthesize various proteases and inhibitors of the metzincin family. The mLTC-1 cells have a limited repertoire as compared with normal Leydig cells. Interestingly, none of the ten proteases and inhibitors monitored is under LH-hCG regulation whereas every protease and inhibitor of the serine protease family yet identified in Leydig cells is under gonadotropin regulation. In addition, a few laminin and collagen subunit genes are regulated by LH/hCG. These are laminins alpha3 and gamma3 (Lama3 and Lamc3), Col4a3, and Col4a6, which are negatively regulated by LH/hCG in both Leydig cell types, and Col4a4, which was downregulated in primary cultures but not in mLTC-1 cells. Collectively, the present study suggests that Leydig cells modulate in a selective fashion their matrix environment in response to their trophic hormone. This may alter the steroidogenic outcome of Leydig cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Séverine Mazaud Guittot
- Inserm U418, UCBL1, UMR INRA 1245, Hopital Debrousse, 29 rue soeur Bouvier, 69322 Lyon Cedex 05, France.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|