1
|
Kitaoka M, Yamashita YM. Running the gauntlet: challenges to genome integrity in spermiogenesis. Nucleus 2024; 15:2339220. [PMID: 38594652 PMCID: PMC11005813 DOI: 10.1080/19491034.2024.2339220] [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: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Species' continuity depends on gametogenesis to produce the only cell types that can transmit genetic information across generations. Spermiogenesis, which encompasses post-meiotic, haploid stages of male gametogenesis, is a process that leads to the formation of sperm cells well-known for their motility. Spermiogenesis faces three major challenges. First, after two rounds of meiotic divisions, the genome lacks repair templates (no sister chromatids, no homologous chromosomes), making it incredibly vulnerable to any genomic insults over an extended time (typically days-weeks). Second, the sperm genome becomes transcriptionally silent, making it difficult to respond to new perturbations as spermiogenesis progresses. Third, the histone-to-protamine transition, which is essential to package the sperm genome, counterintuitively involves DNA break formation. How spermiogenesis handles these challenges remains poorly understood. In this review, we discuss each challenge and their intersection with the biology of protamines. Finally, we discuss the implication of protamines in the process of evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maiko Kitaoka
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Yukiko M. Yamashita
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Fang Y, Zhang F, Zhao F, Wang J, Cheng X, Ye F, He J, Zhao L, Su Y. RpL38 modulates germ cell differentiation by controlling Bam expression in Drosophila testis. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024:10.1007/s11427-024-2646-3. [PMID: 39187660 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-024-2646-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Switching from mitotic spermatogonia to meiotic spermatocytes is critical to producing haploid sperms during male germ cell differentiation. However, the underlying mechanisms of this switch remain largely unexplored. In Drosophila melanogaster, the gene RpL38 encodes the ribosomal protein L38, one component of the 60S subunit of ribosomes. We found that its depletion in spermatogonia severely diminished the production of mature sperms and thus led to the infertility of male flies. By examining the germ cell differentiation in testes, we found that RpL38-knockdown blocked the transition from spermatogonia to spermatocytes and accumulated spermatogonia in the testis. To understand the intrinsic reason for this blockage, we conducted proteomic analysis for these spermatogonia populations. Differing from the control spermatogonia, the accumulated spermatogonia in RpL38-knockdown testes already expressed many spermatocyte markers but lacked many meiosis-related proteins, suggesting that spermatogonia need to prepare some important proteins for meiosis to complete their switch into spermatocytes. Mechanistically, we found that the expression of bag of marbles (bam), a crucial determinant in the transition from spermatogonia to spermatocytes, was inhibited at both the mRNA and protein levels upon RpL38 depletion. We also confirmed that the bam loss phenocopied RpL38 RNAi in the testis phenotype and transcriptomic profiling. Strikingly, overexpressing bam was able to fully rescue the testis abnormality and infertility of RpL38-knockdown flies, indicating that bam is the key effector downstream of RpL38 to regulate spermatogonia differentiation. Overall, our data suggested that germ cells start to prepare meiosis-related proteins as early as the spermatogonial stage, and RpL38 in spermatogonia is required to regulate their transition toward spermatocytes in a bam-dependent manner, providing new knowledge for our understanding of the transition process from spermatogonia to spermatocytes in Drosophila spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Fang
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Fengchao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Fangzhen Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Jiajia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Xinkai Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
- Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Fei Ye
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Jiayu He
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Long Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China.
- Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China.
| | - Ying Su
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China.
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Duan X, Wang H, Cao Z, Su N, Wang Y, Zheng Y. Deficiency of ValRS-m Causes Male Infertility in Drosophila melanogaster. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7489. [PMID: 39000597 PMCID: PMC11242588 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Drosophila spermatogenesis involves the renewal of germline stem cells, meiosis of spermatocytes, and morphological transformation of spermatids into mature sperm. We previously demonstrated that Ocnus (ocn) plays an essential role in spermatogenesis. The ValRS-m (Valyl-tRNA synthetase, mitochondrial) gene was down-regulated in ocn RNAi testes. Here, we found that ValRS-m-knockdown induced complete sterility in male flies. The depletion of ValRS-m blocked mitochondrial behavior and ATP synthesis, thus inhibiting the transition from spermatogonia to spermatocytes, and eventually, inducing the accumulation of spermatogonia during spermatogenesis. To understand the intrinsic reason for this, we further conducted transcriptome-sequencing analysis for control and ValRS-m-knockdown testes. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between these two groups were selected with a fold change of ≥2 or ≤1/2. Compared with the control group, 4725 genes were down-regulated (dDEGs) and 2985 genes were up-regulated (uDEGs) in the ValRS-m RNAi group. The dDEGs were mainly concentrated in the glycolytic pathway and pyruvate metabolic pathway, and the uDEGs were primarily related to ribosomal biogenesis. A total of 28 DEGs associated with mitochondria and 6 meiosis-related genes were verified to be suppressed when ValRS-m was deficient. Overall, these results suggest that ValRS-m plays a wide and vital role in mitochondrial behavior and spermatogonia differentiation in Drosophila.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Duan
- School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China; (X.D.); (H.W.); (Z.C.); (Y.W.)
| | - Haolin Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China; (X.D.); (H.W.); (Z.C.); (Y.W.)
| | - Zhixian Cao
- School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China; (X.D.); (H.W.); (Z.C.); (Y.W.)
| | - Na Su
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, China;
| | - Yufeng Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China; (X.D.); (H.W.); (Z.C.); (Y.W.)
| | - Ya Zheng
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, China;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gao X, Liu S, Lv Y, Dai Q, Zhu L, Hu Z, Lu J, Zhou H, Jin J. Screening of Reference Genes for Quantitative Real-Time PCR Analysis in Tissues and during Testis Development, and Application to Analyze the Expression of kifc1 in Hemibarbus labeo (Teleostei, Cypriniformes, Cyprinidae). Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2006. [PMID: 38998118 PMCID: PMC11240434 DOI: 10.3390/ani14132006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The selection of proper reference genes is vital for ensuring precise quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assays. This study evaluates the stability of the expression of nine candidate reference genes in different tissues and during testicular development in H. labeo. The results show that eef1a is recommended as a reference gene for qPCR analysis in tissues and during testicular development. Furthermore, we evaluated the optimal number of reference genes needed when calculating gene expression levels using the geomean method, revealing that two reference genes are sufficient. Specifically, eef1a and rps27 are recommended for analysis of gene expression in tissues, whereas eef1a and actb are advised for evaluating gene expression during testicular development. In addition, we examined the expression pattern of kifc1, a kinesin involved in the reshaping of spermatids. We detected peak expression levels of kifc1 in testes, with its expression initially increasing before decreasing throughout testicular development. The highest expression of kifc1 was observed in stage IV testes, the active period of spermiogenesis, suggesting a possible role for kifc1 in the regulation of the reshaping of spermatids and hence testicular development. This study represents the first investigation of reference genes for H. labeo, providing a foundation for studying gene expression patterns and investigating gene expression regulation during testicular development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinming Gao
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Siqi Liu
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Yaoping Lv
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Qingmin Dai
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Ling Zhu
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Zehui Hu
- Zhejiang Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Zhoushan 316100, China
| | - Junkai Lu
- Cixi Fisheries Technology Extension Center, Ningbo 315300, China
| | - Haidong Zhou
- Suichang Fisheries and Agricultural Machinery Technology Extension Station, Lishui 323399, China
| | - Jing Jin
- Zhejiang Fisheries Technology Extension Center, Hangzhou 311100, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cheng X, Jiang T, Huang Q, Ji L, Li J, Kong X, Zhu X, He X, Deng X, Wu T, Yu H, Shi Y, Liu L, Zhao X, Wang X, Chen H, Yu J. Exposure to Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Leads to Specific Disorders of Spermatid Elongation via Multiple Metabolic Pathways in Drosophila Testes. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:23613-23623. [PMID: 38854533 PMCID: PMC11154731 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c01140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) have been extensively utilized in various applications. However, the regulatory mechanism behind the reproductive toxicity induced by TiO2 NP exposure remains largely elusive. In this study, we employed a Drosophila model to assess potential testicular injuries during spermatogenesis and conducted bulk RNA-Seq analysis to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Our results reveal that while prolonged exposure to lower concentrations of TiO2 NPs (0.45 mg/mL) for 30 days did not manifest reproductive toxicity, exposure at concentrations of 0.9 and 1.8 mg/mL significantly impaired spermatid elongation in Drosophila testes. Notably, bulk RNA-seq analysis revealed that TiO2 NP exposure affected multiple metabolic pathways including carbohydrate metabolism and cytochrome P450. Importantly, the intervention of glutathione (GSH) significantly protected against reproductive toxicity induced by TiO2 NP exposure, as it restored the number of Orb-positive spermatid clusters in Drosophila testes. Our study provides novel insights into the specific detrimental effects of TiO2 NP exposure on spermatid elongation through multiple metabolic alterations in Drosophila testes and highlights the protective role of GSH in countering this toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinmeng Cheng
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Ting Jiang
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Qiuru Huang
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Li Ji
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Jiaxin Li
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xiuwen Kong
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xiaoqi Zhu
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xuxin He
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xiaonan Deng
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Hao Yu
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Yi Shi
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xinyuan Zhao
- Department
of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key
Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Xiaorong Wang
- Center
for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Maternity
and Child Health Care Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226018, China
- Nantong
Institute of Genetics and Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226018, China
- Nantong
Key Laboratory of Genetics and Reproductive Medicine, Nantong 226018, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute
of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Xu D, Pan J, Fang Y, Zhao L, Su Y. RpS25 is required for sperm elongation and individualization during Drosophila spermatogenesis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 702:149633. [PMID: 38341921 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Ribosomal protein 25 (RPS25) has been related to male fertility diseases in humans. However, the role of RPS25 in spermatogenesis has yet to be well understood. RpS25 is evolutionarily highly conserved from flies to humans through sequence alignment and phylogenetic tree construction. In this study, we found that RpS25 plays a critical role in Drosophila spermatogenesis and its knockdown leads to male sterility. Examination of each stage of spermatogenesis from RpS25-knockdown flies showed that RpS25 was not required for initial germline cell divisions, but was required for spermatid elongation and individualization. In RpS25-knockdown testes, the average length of cyst elongation was shortened, the spermatid nuclei bundling was disrupted, and the assembly of individualization complex from actin cones failed, resulting in the failure of mature sperm production. Our data revealed an essential role of RpS25 during Drosophila spermatogenesis through regulating spermatid elongation and individualization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Xu
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China; College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Jiahui Pan
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China; College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Yang Fang
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China; College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Long Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China; Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China.
| | - Ying Su
- Key Laboratory of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education) and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China; College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Eslahi M, Nematbakhsh N, Dastmalchi N, Teimourian S, Safaralizadeh R. Signaling Pathways in Drosophila gonadal Stem Cells. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 19:154-165. [PMID: 36788694 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x18666230213144531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
The stem cells' ability to divide asymmetrically to produce differentiating and self-renewing daughter cells is crucial to maintain tissue homeostasis and development. Stem cell maintenance and differentiation rely on their regulatory microenvironment termed 'niches'. The mechanisms of the signal transduction pathways initiated from the niche, regulation of stem cell maintenance and differentiation were quite challenging to study. The knowledge gained from the study of Drosophila melanogaster testis and ovary helped develop our understanding of stem cell/niche interactions and signal pathways related to the regulatory mechanisms in maintaining homeostasis of adult tissue. In this review, we discuss the role of signaling pathways in Drosophila gonadal stem cell regeneration, competition, differentiation, dedifferentiation, proliferation, and fate determination. Furthermore, we present the current knowledge on how these signaling pathways are implicated in cancer, and how they contribute as potential candidates for effective cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maede Eslahi
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Negin Nematbakhsh
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Narges Dastmalchi
- Department of Biology, University College of Nabi Akram, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shahram Teimourian
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Safaralizadeh
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Peng Q, Wang Y, Xiao Y, Chang H, Luo S, Wang D, Rong YS. Drosophila Amus and Bin3 methylases functionally replace mammalian MePCE for capping and the stabilization of U6 and 7SK snRNAs. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadj9359. [PMID: 38100593 PMCID: PMC10848712 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj9359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
U6 and 7SK snRNAs have a 5' cap, believed to be essential for their stability and maintained by mammalian MePCE or Drosophila Bin3 enzymes. Although both proteins are required for 7SK stability, loss of neither destabilizes U6, casting doubts on the function of capping U6. Here, we show that the Drosophila Amus protein, homologous to both proteins, is essential for U6 but not 7SK stability. The loss of U6 is rescued by the expression of an Amus-MePCE hybrid protein harboring the methyltransferase domain from MePCE, highlighting the conserved function of the two proteins as the U6 capping enzyme. Our investigations in human cells establish a dependence of both U6 and 7SK stability on MePCE, resolving a long-standing uncertainty. While uncovering a division of labor of Bin3/MePCE/Amus proteins, we found a "Bin3-Box" domain present only in enzymes associated with 7SK regulation. Targeted mutagenesis confirms its importance for Bin3 function, revealing a possible conserved element in 7SK but not U6 biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiu Peng
- MOE Key Lab of Rare Pediatric Diseases, Hengyang College of Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yiqing Wang
- MOE Key Lab of Rare Pediatric Diseases, Hengyang College of Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ying Xiao
- MOE Key Lab of Rare Pediatric Diseases, Hengyang College of Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Hua Chang
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shishi Luo
- MOE Key Lab of Rare Pediatric Diseases, Hengyang College of Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Danling Wang
- MOE Key Lab of Rare Pediatric Diseases, Hengyang College of Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yikang S. Rong
- MOE Key Lab of Rare Pediatric Diseases, Hengyang College of Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hernández G, Vazquez-Pianzola P. eIF4E as a molecular wildcard in metazoans RNA metabolism. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2023; 98:2284-2306. [PMID: 37553111 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13005] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
The evolutionary origin of eukaryotes spurred the transition from prokaryotic-like translation to a more sophisticated, eukaryotic translation. During this process, successive gene duplication of a single, primordial eIF4E gene encoding the mRNA cap-binding protein eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) gave rise to a plethora of paralog genes across eukaryotes that underwent further functional diversification in RNA metabolism. The ability to take different roles is due to eIF4E promiscuity in binding many partner proteins, rendering eIF4E a highly versatile and multifunctional player that functions as a molecular wildcard. Thus, in metazoans, eIF4E paralogs are involved in various processes, including messenger RNA (mRNA) processing, export, translation, storage, and decay. Moreover, some paralogs display differential expression in tissues and developmental stages and show variable biochemical properties. In this review, we discuss recent advances shedding light on the functional diversification of eIF4E in metazoans. We emphasise humans and two phylogenetically distant species which have become paradigms for studies on development, namely the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster and the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Greco Hernández
- mRNA and Cancer Laboratory, Unit of Biomedical Research on Cancer, National Institute of Cancer (Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, INCan), 22 San Fernando Ave., Tlalpan, Mexico City, 14080, Mexico
| | - Paula Vazquez-Pianzola
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Baltzerstrasse 4, Berne, 3012, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Anderson JT, Henikoff S, Ahmad K. Chromosome-specific maturation of the epigenome in the Drosophila male germline. eLife 2023; 12:RP89373. [PMID: 38032818 PMCID: PMC10688970 DOI: 10.7554/elife.89373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis in the Drosophila male germline proceeds through a unique transcriptional program controlled both by germline-specific transcription factors and by testis-specific versions of core transcriptional machinery. This program includes the activation of genes on the heterochromatic Y chromosome, and reduced transcription from the X chromosome, but how expression from these sex chromosomes is regulated has not been defined. To resolve this, we profiled active chromatin features in the testes from wildtype and meiotic arrest mutants and integrate this with single-cell gene expression data from the Fly Cell Atlas. These data assign the timing of promoter activation for genes with germline-enriched expression throughout spermatogenesis, and general alterations of promoter regulation in germline cells. By profiling both active RNA polymerase II and histone modifications in isolated spermatocytes, we detail widespread patterns associated with regulation of the sex chromosomes. Our results demonstrate that the X chromosome is not enriched for silencing histone modifications, implying that sex chromosome inactivation does not occur in the Drosophila male germline. Instead, a lack of dosage compensation in spermatocytes accounts for the reduced expression from this chromosome. Finally, profiling uncovers dramatic ubiquitinylation of histone H2A and lysine-16 acetylation of histone H4 across the Y chromosome in spermatocytes that may contribute to the activation of this heterochromatic chromosome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James T Anderson
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Steven Henikoff
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
- Howard Hughes Medical InstituteChevy ChaseUnited States
| | - Kami Ahmad
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Yamazoe K, Inoue YH. Cyclin B Export to the Cytoplasm via the Nup62 Subcomplex and Subsequent Rapid Nuclear Import Are Required for the Initiation of Drosophila Male Meiosis. Cells 2023; 12:2611. [PMID: 37998346 PMCID: PMC10670764 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1)-cyclin B (CycB) complex plays critical roles in cell-cycle regulation. Before Drosophila male meiosis, CycB is exported from the nucleus to the cytoplasm via the nuclear porin 62kD (Nup62) subcomplex of the nuclear pore complex. When this export is inhibited, Cdk1 is not activated, and meiosis does not initiate. We investigated the mechanism that controls the cellular localization and activation of Cdk1. Cdk1-CycB continuously shuttled into and out of the nucleus before meiosis. Overexpression of CycB, but not that of CycB with nuclear localization signal sequences, rescued reduced cytoplasmic CycB and inhibition of meiosis in Nup62-silenced cells. Full-scale Cdk1 activation occurred in the nucleus shortly after its rapid nuclear entry. Cdk1-dependent centrosome separation did not occur in Nup62-silenced cells, whereas Cdk1 interacted with Cdk-activating kinase and Twine/Cdc25C in the nuclei of Nup62-silenced cells, suggesting the involvement of another suppression mechanism. Silencing of roughex rescued Cdk1 inhibition and initiated meiosis. Nuclear export of Cdk1 ensured its escape from inhibition by a cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor. The complex re-entered the nucleus via importin β at the onset of meiosis. We propose a model regarding the dynamics and activation mechanism of Cdk1-CycB to initiate male meiosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Yoshihiro H. Inoue
- Biomedical Research Center, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Matsugasaki, Sakyo, Kyoto 606-0962, Japan;
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
François CM, Pihl T, Dunoyer de Segonzac M, Hérault C, Hudry B. Metabolic regulation of proteome stability via N-terminal acetylation controls male germline stem cell differentiation and reproduction. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6737. [PMID: 37872135 PMCID: PMC10593830 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42496-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms connecting cellular metabolism with differentiation remain poorly understood. Here, we find that metabolic signals contribute to stem cell differentiation and germline homeostasis during Drosophila melanogaster spermatogenesis. We discovered that external citrate, originating outside the gonad, fuels the production of Acetyl-coenzyme A by germline ATP-citrate lyase (dACLY). We show that this pathway is essential during the final spermatogenic stages, where a high Acetyl-coenzyme A level promotes NatB-dependent N-terminal protein acetylation. Using genetic and biochemical experiments, we establish that N-terminal acetylation shields key target proteins, essential for spermatid differentiation, from proteasomal degradation by the ubiquitin ligase dUBR1. Our work uncovers crosstalk between metabolism and proteome stability that is mediated via protein post-translational modification. We propose that this system coordinates the metabolic state of the organism with gamete production. More broadly, modulation of proteome turnover by circulating metabolites may be a conserved regulatory mechanism to control cell functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte M François
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Nice, 06108, France
| | - Thomas Pihl
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Nice, 06108, France
| | | | - Chloé Hérault
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Nice, 06108, France
| | - Bruno Hudry
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Nice, 06108, France.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Santos IB, Wainman A, Garrido-Maraver J, Pires V, Riparbelli MG, Kovács L, Callaini G, Glover DM, Tavares ÁA. Mob4 is essential for spermatogenesis in Drosophila melanogaster. Genetics 2023; 224:iyad104. [PMID: 37259670 PMCID: PMC10411562 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyad104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Gamete formation is essential for sexual reproduction in metazoans. Meiosis in males gives rise to spermatids that must differentiate and individualize into mature sperm. In Drosophila melanogaster, individualization of interconnected spermatids requires the formation of individualization complexes that synchronously move along the sperm bundles. Here, we show that Mob4, a member of the Mps-one binder family, is essential for male fertility but has no detectable role in female fertility. We show that Mob4 is required for proper axonemal structure and its loss leads to male sterility associated with defective spermatid individualization and absence of mature sperm in the seminal vesicles. Transmission electron micrographs of developing spermatids following mob4RNAi revealed expansion of the outer axonemal microtubules such that the 9 doublets no longer remained linked to each other and defective mitochondrial organization. Mob4 is a STRIPAK component, and male fertility is similarly impaired upon depletion of the STRIPAK components, Strip and Cka. Expression of the human Mob4 gene rescues all phenotypes of Drosophila mob4 downregulation, indicating that the gene is evolutionarily and functionally conserved. Together, this suggests that Mob4 contributes to the regulation of the microtubule- and actin-cytoskeleton during spermatogenesis through the conserved STRIPAK complex. Our study advances the understanding of male infertility by uncovering the requirement for Mob4 in sperm individualization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inês B Santos
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR), University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Alan Wainman
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Juan Garrido-Maraver
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR), University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Vanessa Pires
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR), University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | | | - Levente Kovács
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 91125 Pasadena, California
| | - Giuliano Callaini
- University of Siena, Department of Life Sciences, Via Aldo Moro, 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - David M Glover
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 91125 Pasadena, California
| | - Álvaro A Tavares
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR), University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zheng Y, Mao B, Wang Q, Duan X, Chen MY, Shen W, Li C, Wang YF. Quantitative proteomics and phosphoproteomics reveal insights into mechanisms of ocnus function in Drosophila testis development. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:283. [PMID: 37237333 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09386-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testis is the only organ supporting sperm production and with the largest number of proteins and tissue-specific proteins in animals. In our previous studies, we have found that knockdown of ocnus (ocn), a testis-specific gene, resulted in much smaller testis with no germ cells in Drosophila melanogaster. However, the molecular consequences of ocn knockdown in fly testes are unknown. RESULTS In this study, through iTRAQ quantitative proteomics sequencing, 606 proteins were identified from fly abdomens as having a significant and at least a 1.5-fold change in expression after ocn knockdown in fly testes, of which 85 were up-regulated and 521 were down-regulated. Among the differential expressed proteins (DEPs), apart from those proteins involved in spermatogenesis, the others extensively affected biological processes of generation of precursor metabolites and energy, metabolic process, and mitochondrial transport. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analyses of DEPs showed that several kinases and/or phosphatases interacted with Ocn. Re-analyses of the transcriptome revealed 150 differential expressed genes (DEGs) appeared in the DEPs, and their changing trends in expressions after ocn knockdown were consistent. Many common down-regulated DEGs and DEPs were testis-specific or highly expressed in the testis of D. melanogaster. Quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) confirmed 12 genes appeared in both DEGs and DEPs were significantly down-regulated after ocn knockdown in fly testes. Furthermore, 153 differentially expressed phosphoproteins (DEPPs), including 72 up-regulated and 94 down-regulated phosphorylated proteins were also identified (13 phosphoproteins appeared in both up- and down-regulated groups due to having multiple phosphorylation sites). In addition to those DEPPs associated with spermatogenesis, the other DEPPs were enriched in actin filament-based process, protein folding, and mesoderm development. Some DEPs and DEPPs were involved in Notch, JAK/STAT, and cell death pathways. CONCLUSIONS Given the drastic effect of the ocn knockdown on tissue development and testis cells composition, the differences in protein abundance in the ocn knockdown flies might not necessarily be the direct result of differential gene regulation due to the inactivation of ocn. Nevertheless, our results suggest that the expression of ocn is essential for Drosophila testis development and that its down-regulation disturbs key signaling pathways related to cell survival and differentiation. These DEPs and DEPPs identified may provide significant candidate set for future studies on the mechanism of male reproduction of animals, including humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya Zheng
- School of Life Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Bin Mao
- School of Life Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Qian Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Xin Duan
- School of Life Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Meng-Yan Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Wei Shen
- School of Life Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Chao Li
- School of Life Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Feng Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yu J, Fu Y, Li Z, Huang Q, Tang J, Sun C, Zhou P, He L, Sun F, Cheng X, Ji L, Yu H, Shi Y, Gu Z, Sun F, Zhao X. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals cell landscape following antimony exposure during spermatogenesis in Drosophila testes. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:86. [PMID: 36894529 PMCID: PMC9998446 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01391-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimony (Sb), is thought to induce testicular toxicity, although this remains controversial. This study investigated the effects of Sb exposure during spermatogenesis in the Drosophila testis and the underlying transcriptional regulatory mechanism at single-cell resolution. Firstly, we found that flies exposed to Sb for 10 days led to dose-dependent reproductive toxicity during spermatogenesis. Protein expression and RNA levels were measured by immunofluorescence and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed to characterize testicular cell composition and identify the transcriptional regulatory network after Sb exposure in Drosophila testes. scRNA-seq analysis revealed that Sb exposure influenced various testicular cell populations, especially in GSCs_to_Early_Spermatogonia and Spermatids clusters. Importantly, carbon metabolism was involved in GSCs/early spermatogonia maintenance and positively related with SCP-Containing Proteins, S-LAPs, and Mst84D signatures. Moreover, Seminal Fluid Proteins, Mst57D, and Serpin signatures were highly positively correlated with spermatid maturation. Pseudotime trajectory analysis revealed three novel states for the complexity of germ cell differentiation, and many novel genes (e.g., Dup98B) were found to be expressed in state-biased manners during spermatogenesis. Collectively, this study indicates that Sb exposure negatively impacts GSC maintenance and spermatid elongation, damaging spermatogenesis homeostasis via multiple signatures in Drosophila testes and therefore supporting Sb-mediated testicular toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Yangbo Fu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Zhiran Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Qiuru Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Juan Tang
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Chi Sun
- Department of Geriatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Peiyao Zhou
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Lei He
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Feiteng Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Xinmeng Cheng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Li Ji
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Hao Yu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Yi Shi
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Zhifeng Gu
- Department of Rheumatology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China.
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China.
| | - Xinyuan Zhao
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Shao L, Fingerhut JM, Falk BL, Han H, Maldonado G, Qiao Y, Lee V, Hall E, Chen L, Polevoy G, Hernández G, Lasko P, Brill JA. Eukaryotic translation initiation factor eIF4E-5 is required for spermiogenesis in Drosophila melanogaster. Development 2023; 150:286752. [PMID: 36695474 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Drosophila sperm development is characterized by extensive post-transcriptional regulation whereby thousands of transcripts are preserved for translation during later stages. A key step in translation initiation is the binding of eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) to the 5' mRNA cap. In addition to canonical eIF4E-1, Drosophila has multiple eIF4E paralogs, including four (eIF4E-3, -4, -5, and -7) that are highly expressed in the testis. Among these, only eIF4E-3 has been characterized genetically. Here, using CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis, we determined that eIF4E-5 is essential for male fertility. eIF4E-5 protein localizes to the distal ends of elongated spermatid cysts, and eIF4E-5 mutants exhibit defects during post-meiotic stages, including a mild defect in spermatid cyst polarization. eIF4E-5 mutants also have a fully penetrant defect in individualization, resulting in failure to produce mature sperm. Indeed, our data indicate that eIF4E-5 regulates non-apoptotic caspase activity during individualization by promoting local accumulation of the E3 ubiquitin ligase inhibitor Soti. Our results further extend the diversity of non-canonical eIF4Es that carry out distinct spatiotemporal roles during spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Shao
- Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, PGCRL Building, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 0A4, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Jaclyn M Fingerhut
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Brook L Falk
- Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, PGCRL Building, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 0A4, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Hong Han
- Department of Biology, McGill University, 3649 Promenade Sir William Osler, Montréal, Quebec, H3G 0B1, Canada
| | - Giovanna Maldonado
- Laboratory of Translation and Cancer, Unit of Biomedical Research on Cancer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan), Av San Fernando 22, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Yuemeng Qiao
- Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, PGCRL Building, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 0A4, Canada
- Human Biology Program, University of Toronto, 300 Huron Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3J6, Canada
| | - Vincent Lee
- Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, PGCRL Building, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 0A4, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Hall
- Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, PGCRL Building, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 0A4, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Liang Chen
- Department of Biology, McGill University, 3649 Promenade Sir William Osler, Montréal, Quebec, H3G 0B1, Canada
| | - Gordon Polevoy
- Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, PGCRL Building, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Greco Hernández
- Laboratory of Translation and Cancer, Unit of Biomedical Research on Cancer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan), Av San Fernando 22, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Paul Lasko
- Department of Biology, McGill University, 3649 Promenade Sir William Osler, Montréal, Quebec, H3G 0B1, Canada
| | - Julie A Brill
- Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, PGCRL Building, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 0A4, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Fu X, Yang Y, Yan Z, Liu M, Wang X. Transcriptomic Study of Spermatogenesis in the Testis of Hu Sheep and Tibetan Sheep. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13122212. [PMID: 36553478 PMCID: PMC9778047 DOI: 10.3390/genes13122212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous genes involved in male reproduction regulate testis development and spermatogenesis. In this study, the testis tissue transcriptome was used to identify candidate genes and key pathways associated with fecundity in sheep. Histological analysis of testis tissue using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) routine staining was performed for two sheep breeds. Overall, 466 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between Hu sheep (HS) and Tibetan sheep (TS) through RNA sequencing technology (RNA-Seq), including 226 upregulated and 240 downregulated genes. Functional analysis showed that several terms and pathways, such as "protein digestion and absorption", "cAMP signaling pathway", "focal adhesion", and "p53 signaling pathway" were closely related to testis development and spermatogenesis. Several genes (including COL1A1, COL1A2, COL3A1, SOX9, BCL2, HDC, and GGT5) were significantly enriched in these terms and pathways and might affect the reproduction of sheep by regulating the migration of spermatogenic cells, apoptosis of spermatogenic cells, and secretion of sterol hormones via testicular interstitial cells. Our results provide a theoretical basis for better understanding the molecular mechanisms of reproduction in sheep.
Collapse
|
18
|
Romanov SE, Shloma VV, Koryakov DE, Belyakin SN, Laktionov PP. Insulator Protein CP190 Regulates Expression оf Spermatocyte Differentiation Genes in Drosophila melanogaster Male Germline. Mol Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893323010120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
19
|
Gap junctions mediate discrete regulatory steps during fly spermatogenesis. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010417. [PMID: 36174062 PMCID: PMC9578636 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Gametogenesis requires coordinated signaling between germ cells and somatic cells. We previously showed that Gap junction (GJ)-mediated soma-germline communication is essential for fly spermatogenesis. Specifically, the GJ protein Innexin4/Zero population growth (Zpg) is necessary for somatic and germline stem cell maintenance and differentiation. It remains unknown how GJ-mediated signals regulate spermatogenesis or whether the function of these signals is restricted to the earliest stages of spermatogenesis. Here we carried out comprehensive structure/function analysis of Zpg using insights obtained from the protein structure of innexins to design mutations aimed at selectively perturbing different regulatory regions as well as the channel pore of Zpg. We identify the roles of various regulatory sites in Zpg in the assembly and maintenance of GJs at the plasma membrane. Moreover, mutations designed to selectively disrupt, based on size and charge, the passage of cargos through the Zpg channel pore, blocked different stages of spermatogenesis. Mutations were identified that progressed through early germline and soma development, but exhibited defects in entry to meiosis or sperm individualisation, resulting in reduced fertility or sterility. Our work shows that specific signals that pass through GJs regulate the transition between different stages of gametogenesis.
Collapse
|
20
|
Microtubule and Actin Cytoskeletal Dynamics in Male Meiotic Cells of Drosophila melanogaster. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040695. [PMID: 35203341 PMCID: PMC8870657 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Drosophila dividing spermatocytes offer a highly suitable cell system in which to investigate the coordinated reorganization of microtubule and actin cytoskeleton systems during cell division of animal cells. Like male germ cells of mammals, Drosophila spermatogonia and spermatocytes undergo cleavage furrow ingression during cytokinesis, but abscission does not take place. Thus, clusters of primary and secondary spermatocytes undergo meiotic divisions in synchrony, resulting in cysts of 32 secondary spermatocytes and then 64 spermatids connected by specialized structures called ring canals. The meiotic spindles in Drosophila males are substantially larger than the spindles of mammalian somatic cells and exhibit prominent central spindles and contractile rings during cytokinesis. These characteristics make male meiotic cells particularly amenable to immunofluorescence and live imaging analysis of the spindle microtubules and the actomyosin apparatus during meiotic divisions. Moreover, because the spindle assembly checkpoint is not robust in spermatocytes, Drosophila male meiosis allows investigating of whether gene products required for chromosome segregation play additional roles during cytokinesis. Here, we will review how the research studies on Drosophila male meiotic cells have contributed to our knowledge of the conserved molecular pathways that regulate spindle microtubules and cytokinesis with important implications for the comprehension of cancer and other diseases.
Collapse
|
21
|
Rapid Divergence of Key Spermatogenesis Genes in nasuta-Subgroup of Drosophila. J Mol Evol 2021; 90:2-16. [PMID: 34807291 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-021-10037-x] [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: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The crosses between closely related Drosophila species usually produce sterile hybrid males with spermatogenesis disrupted at post-meiotic phase, especially in sperm individualization stage than the pre-meiotic stage. This is possibly due to the rapid interspecies divergence of male sex and reproduction-related genes. Here we annotated 11 key spermatogenesis genes in 35 strains of species belonging to nasuta-subgroup of Drosophila, where many interspecies crosses produce sterile males. We characterized the divergence and polymorphism in the protein coding regions by employing gene-wide, codon-wide, and lineage-specific selection analysis to test the mode and strength of selection acting on these genes. Our analysis showed signature of positive selection at bag of marbles (bam) and benign gonial cell neoplasma (bgcn) despite the selection constrains and the absence of endosymbiont infection which could potentially drive rapid divergence due to an arms race while roughex (rux) showed lineage-specific rapid divergence in frontal sheen complex of nasuta-subgroup. cookie monster (comr) showed rapid divergence consistent with the possibility of meiotic arrest observed in sterile hybrids of Drosophila species. Rapid divergence observed at don juan (dj) and Mst98Ca-like was consistent with fused sperm-tail abnormality observed in the hybrids of Drosophila nasuta and Drosophila albomicans. These findings highlight the potential role of rapid nucleotide divergence in bringing about hybrid incompatibility in the form of male sterility; however, additional genetic manipulation studies can widen our understanding of hybrid incompatibilities. Furthermore, our study emphasizes the importance of young species belonging to nasuta-subgroup of Drosophila in studying post-zygotic reproductive isolation mechanisms.
Collapse
|
22
|
Xia S, Ventura IM, Blaha A, Sgromo A, Han S, Izaurralde E, Long M. Rapid Gene evolution in an ancient post-transcriptional and translational regulatory system compensates for meiotic X chromosomal inactivation. Mol Biol Evol 2021; 39:6385248. [PMID: 34626117 PMCID: PMC8763131 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msab296] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It is conventionally assumed that conserved pathways evolve slowly with little participation of gene evolution. Nevertheless, it has been recently observed that young genes can take over fundamental functions in essential biological processes, for example, development and reproduction. It is unclear how newly duplicated genes are integrated into ancestral networks and reshape the conserved pathways of important functions. Here, we investigated origination and function of two autosomal genes that evolved recently in Drosophila: Poseidon and Zeus, which were created by RNA-based duplications from the X-linked CAF40, a subunit of the conserved CCR4–NOT deadenylase complex involved in posttranscriptional and translational regulation. Knockdown and knockout assays show that the two genes quickly evolved critically important functions in viability and male fertility. Moreover, our transcriptome analysis demonstrates that the three genes have a broad and distinct effect in the expression of hundreds of genes, with almost half of the differentially expressed genes being perturbed exclusively by one paralog, but not the others. Co-immunoprecipitation and tethering assays show that the CAF40 paralog Poseidon maintains the ability to interact with the CCR4–NOT deadenylase complex and might act in posttranscriptional mRNA regulation. The rapid gene evolution in the ancient posttranscriptional and translational regulatory system may be driven by evolution of sex chromosomes to compensate for the meiotic X chromosomal inactivation (MXCI) in Drosophila.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengqian Xia
- Department of Ecology & Evolution, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Iuri M Ventura
- Department of Ecology & Evolution, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Brasília, DF, 70040-020, Brazil
| | - Andreas Blaha
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Annamaria Sgromo
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Shuaibo Han
- Department of Ecology & Evolution, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Elisa Izaurralde
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Manyuan Long
- Department of Ecology & Evolution, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Rivard EL, Ludwig AG, Patel PH, Grandchamp A, Arnold SE, Berger A, Scott EM, Kelly BJ, Mascha GC, Bornberg-Bauer E, Findlay GD. A putative de novo evolved gene required for spermatid chromatin condensation in Drosophila melanogaster. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009787. [PMID: 34478447 PMCID: PMC8445463 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Comparative genomics has enabled the identification of genes that potentially evolved de novo from non-coding sequences. Many such genes are expressed in male reproductive tissues, but their functions remain poorly understood. To address this, we conducted a functional genetic screen of over 40 putative de novo genes with testis-enriched expression in Drosophila melanogaster and identified one gene, atlas, required for male fertility. Detailed genetic and cytological analyses showed that atlas is required for proper chromatin condensation during the final stages of spermatogenesis. Atlas protein is expressed in spermatid nuclei and facilitates the transition from histone- to protamine-based chromatin packaging. Complementary evolutionary analyses revealed the complex evolutionary history of atlas. The protein-coding portion of the gene likely arose at the base of the Drosophila genus on the X chromosome but was unlikely to be essential, as it was then lost in several independent lineages. Within the last ~15 million years, however, the gene moved to an autosome, where it fused with a conserved non-coding RNA and evolved a non-redundant role in male fertility. Altogether, this study provides insight into the integration of novel genes into biological processes, the links between genomic innovation and functional evolution, and the genetic control of a fundamental developmental process, gametogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily L. Rivard
- College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Andrew G. Ludwig
- College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Prajal H. Patel
- College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | | | - Sarah E. Arnold
- College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | | | - Emilie M. Scott
- College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Brendan J. Kelly
- College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Grace C. Mascha
- College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Erich Bornberg-Bauer
- University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Geoffrey D. Findlay
- College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Palacios V, Kimble GC, Tootle TL, Buszczak M. Importin-9 regulates chromosome segregation and packaging in Drosophila germ cells. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:237786. [PMID: 33632744 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.258391] [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: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cells undergo distinct nuclear processes as they differentiate into gametes. Although these events must be coordinated to ensure proper maturation, the stage-specific transport of proteins in and out of germ cell nuclei remains incompletely understood. Our efforts to genetically characterize Drosophila genes that exhibit enriched expression in germ cells led to the finding that loss of the highly conserved Importin β/karyopherin family member Importin-9 (Ipo9, herein referring to Ranbp9) results in female and male sterility. Immunofluorescence and fluorescent in situ hybridization revealed that Ipo9KO mutants display chromosome condensation and segregation defects during meiosis. In addition, Ipo9KO mutant males form abnormally structured sperm and fail to properly exchange histones for protamines. Ipo9 physically interacts with proteasome proteins, and Ipo9 mutant males exhibit disruption of the nuclear localization of several proteasome components. Thus, Ipo9 coordinates the nuclear import of functionally related factors necessary for the completion of gametogenesis. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor Palacios
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Garrett C Kimble
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Tina L Tootle
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Michael Buszczak
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.,Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Santiago JC, Boylan JM, Lemieux FA, Gruppuso PA, Sanders JA, Rand DM. Mitochondrial genotype alters the impact of rapamycin on the transcriptional response to nutrients in Drosophila. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:213. [PMID: 33761878 PMCID: PMC7992956 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07516-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In addition to their well characterized role in cellular energy production, new evidence has revealed the involvement of mitochondria in diverse signaling pathways that regulate a broad array of cellular functions. The mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) encodes essential components of the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) pathway whose expression must be coordinated with the components transcribed from the nuclear genome. Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with disorders including cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, yet the role of the complex interactions between the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes are poorly understood. RESULTS Using a Drosophila model in which alternative mtDNAs are present on a common nuclear background, we studied the effects of this altered mitonuclear communication on the transcriptomic response to altered nutrient status. Adult flies with the 'native' and 'disrupted' genotypes were re-fed following brief starvation, with or without exposure to rapamycin, the cognate inhibitor of the nutrient-sensing target of rapamycin (TOR). RNAseq showed that alternative mtDNA genotypes affect the temporal transcriptional response to nutrients in a rapamycin-dependent manner. Pathways most greatly affected were OXPHOS, protein metabolism and fatty acid metabolism. A distinct set of testis-specific genes was also differentially regulated in the experiment. CONCLUSIONS Many of the differentially expressed genes between alternative mitonuclear genotypes have no direct interaction with mtDNA gene products, suggesting that the mtDNA genotype contributes to retrograde signaling from mitochondria to the nucleus. The interaction of mitochondrial genotype (mtDNA) with rapamycin treatment identifies new links between mitochondria and the nutrient-sensing mTORC1 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1) signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John C. Santiago
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Molecular Biology, Cellular Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912 USA ,grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912 USA
| | - Joan M. Boylan
- grid.240588.30000 0001 0557 9478Department of Pediatrics, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - Faye A. Lemieux
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912 USA
| | - Philip A. Gruppuso
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Molecular Biology, Cellular Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912 USA ,grid.240588.30000 0001 0557 9478Department of Pediatrics, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - Jennifer A. Sanders
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912 USA
| | - David M. Rand
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Molecular Biology, Cellular Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912 USA ,grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912 USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Nandi A, Chowdhuri DK. Cadmium mediated redox modulation in germline stem cells homeostasis affects reproductive health of Drosophila males. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 402:123737. [PMID: 33254766 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Maintenance of male germline stem cells (GSCs) homeostasis is crucial for successful reproductive life of adults. New insights gained on dysfunction in stem cell maintenance could be the basis of stem cell dependent ailment during adulthood. Cadmium (Cd), a reported male reproductive toxicant, has been explored inadequately for its impact on male GSCs maintenance. The present study, therefore, has been aimed to evaluate the adverse effect of Cd on the homeostasis of GSCs by using Drosophila testis as an in vivo model. Following developmental exposure of environmentally relevant concentrations of Cd (5.0, 10.0 and 20.0 μg/mL) to Drosophila, we showed that a significantly increased level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at 20.0 μg/mL of Cd resulted in alteration of GSCs number accompanied by inappropriate differentiation leading to reduced sperm number and eventually poor reproductive performance in exposed organism. Rescuing effect was evident by overexpressing sod in the early germ cell stage. The study suggests that an alteration in GSCs homeostasis due to redox imbalance plays a pivotal role in Cd induced failure in male fertility. The study further advocates for the use of Drosophila as an alternative animal model for in vivo evaluation of male GSCs toxicity with minimal ethical concern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abik Nandi
- Embryotoxicology Laboratory, Environmental Toxicology Group, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Vishvigyan Bhavan, 31, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow 226 001, Uttar Pradesh, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201 002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Debapratim Kar Chowdhuri
- Embryotoxicology Laboratory, Environmental Toxicology Group, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Vishvigyan Bhavan, 31, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow 226 001, Uttar Pradesh, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201 002, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Kaufman RS, Price KL, Mannix KM, Ayers KM, Hudson AM, Cooley L. Drosophila sperm development and intercellular cytoplasm sharing through ring canals do not require an intact fusome. Development 2020; 147:dev.190140. [PMID: 33033119 DOI: 10.1242/dev.190140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Animal germ cells communicate directly with each other during gametogenesis through intercellular bridges, often called ring canals (RCs), that form as a consequence of incomplete cytokinesis during cell division. Developing germ cells in Drosophila have an additional specialized organelle connecting the cells called the fusome. Ring canals and the fusome are required for fertility in Drosophila females, but little is known about their roles during spermatogenesis. With live imaging, we directly observe the intercellular movement of GFP and a subset of endogenous proteins through RCs during spermatogenesis, from two-cell diploid spermatogonia to clusters of 64 post-meiotic haploid spermatids, demonstrating that RCs are stable and open to intercellular traffic throughout spermatogenesis. Disruption of the fusome, a large cytoplasmic structure that extends through RCs and is important during oogenesis, had no effect on spermatogenesis or male fertility under normal conditions. Our results reveal that male germline RCs allow the sharing of cytoplasmic information that might play a role in quality control surveillance during sperm development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ronit S Kaufman
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Kari L Price
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Katelynn M Mannix
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Kathleen M Ayers
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Andrew M Hudson
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Lynn Cooley
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA .,Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.,Department of Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ray M, Larschan E. Getting started: altering promoter choice as a mechanism for cell type differentiation. Genes Dev 2020; 34:619-620. [PMID: 32358039 PMCID: PMC7197355 DOI: 10.1101/gad.338723.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In this issue of Genes & Development, Lu and colleagues (pp. 663-677) have discovered a key new mechanism of alternative promoter choice that is involved in differentiation of spermatocytes. Promoter choice has strong potential as mechanism for differentiation of many different cell types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mukulika Ray
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cellular Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, USA
| | - Erica Larschan
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cellular Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Cheng L, Zhang Y, Zhang Y, Chen T, Xu YZ, Rong YS. Loss of the RNA trimethylguanosine cap is compatible with nuclear accumulation of spliceosomal snRNAs but not pre-mRNA splicing or snRNA processing during animal development. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1009098. [PMID: 33085660 PMCID: PMC7605716 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The 2,2,7-trimethylguanosine (TMG) cap is one of the first identified modifications on eukaryotic RNAs. TMG, synthesized by the conserved Tgs1 enzyme, is abundantly present on snRNAs essential for pre-mRNA splicing. Results from ex vivo experiments in vertebrate cells suggested that TMG ensures nuclear localization of snRNAs. Functional studies of TMG using tgs1 mutations in unicellular organisms yield results inconsistent with TMG being indispensable for either nuclear import or splicing. Utilizing a hypomorphic tgs1 mutation in Drosophila, we show that TMG reduction impairs germline development by disrupting the processing, particularly of introns with smaller sizes and weaker splice sites. Unexpectedly, loss of TMG does not disrupt snRNAs localization to the nucleus, disputing an essential role of TMG in snRNA transport. Tgs1 loss also leads to defective 3' processing of snRNAs. Remarkably, stronger tgs1 mutations cause lethality without severely disrupting splicing, likely due to the preponderance of TMG-capped snRNPs. Tgs1, a predominantly nucleolar protein in Drosophila, likely carries out splicing-independent functions indispensable for animal development. Taken together, our results suggest that nuclear import is not a conserved function of TMG. As a distinctive structure on RNA, particularly non-coding RNA, we suggest that TMG prevents spurious interactions detrimental to the function of RNAs that it modifies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Cheng
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Hengyang College of Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, United States of America
| | - Tao Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Hengyang College of Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yong-Zhen Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yikang S. Rong
- Hengyang College of Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Developmental regulation of cell type-specific transcription by novel promoter-proximal sequence elements. Genes Dev 2020; 34:663-677. [PMID: 32217666 PMCID: PMC7197356 DOI: 10.1101/gad.335331.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Here, Lu et al. use Drosophila to show that opening of promoters from their closed state in precursor cells requires function of the spermatocyte-specific tMAC complex, localized at the promoters. Their findings provide novel insight into how promoter-proximal sequence elements that recruit and are acted on by cell type-specific chromatin-binding complexes help establish a robust, cell type-specific transcription program for terminal differentiation. Cell type-specific transcriptional programs that drive differentiation of specialized cell types are key players in development and tissue regeneration. One of the most dramatic changes in the transcription program in Drosophila occurs with the transition from proliferating spermatogonia to differentiating spermatocytes, with >3000 genes either newly expressed or expressed from new alternative promoters in spermatocytes. Here we show that opening of these promoters from their closed state in precursor cells requires function of the spermatocyte-specific tMAC complex, localized at the promoters. The spermatocyte-specific promoters lack the previously identified canonical core promoter elements except for the Inr. Instead, these promoters are enriched for the binding site for the TALE-class homeodomain transcription factors Achi/Vis and for a motif originally identified under tMAC ChIP-seq peaks. The tMAC motif resembles part of the previously identified 14-bp β2UE1 element critical for spermatocyte-specific expression. Analysis of downstream sequences relative to transcription start site usage suggested that ACA and CNAAATT motifs at specific positions can help promote efficient transcription initiation. Our results reveal how promoter-proximal sequence elements that recruit and are acted upon by cell type-specific chromatin binding complexes help establish a robust, cell type-specific transcription program for terminal differentiation.
Collapse
|
31
|
The Drosophila RNA Helicase Belle (DDX3) Non-Autonomously Suppresses Germline Tumorigenesis Via Regulation of a Specific mRNA Set. Cells 2020; 9:cells9030550. [PMID: 32111103 PMCID: PMC7140462 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
DDX3 subfamily DEAD-box RNA helicases are essential developmental regulators of RNA metabolism in eukaryotes. belle, the single DDX3 ortholog in Drosophila, is required for fly viability, fertility, and germline stem cell maintenance. Belle is involved both in translational activation and repression of target mRNAs in different tissues; however, direct targets of Belle in the testes are essentially unknown. Here we showed that belle RNAi knockdown in testis cyst cells caused a disruption of adhesion between germ and cyst cells and generation of tumor-like clusters of stem-like germ cells. Ectopic expression of β-integrin in cyst cells rescued early stages of spermatogenesis in belle knockdown testes, indicating that integrin adhesion complexes are required for the interaction between somatic and germ cells in a cyst. To address Belle functions in spermatogenesis in detail we performed cross-linking immunoprecipitation and sequencing (CLIP-seq) analysis and identified multiple mRNAs that interacted with Belle in the testes. The set of Belle targets includes transcripts of proteins that are essential for preventing the tumor-like clusters of germ cells and for sustaining spermatogenesis. By our hypothesis, failures in the translation of a number of mRNA targets additively contribute to developmental defects observed in the testes with belle knockdowns both in cyst cells and in the germline.
Collapse
|
32
|
Montooth KL, Dhawanjewar AS, Meiklejohn CD. Temperature-Sensitive Reproduction and the Physiological and Evolutionary Potential for Mother's Curse. Integr Comp Biol 2020; 59:890-899. [PMID: 31173136 PMCID: PMC6797906 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icz091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Strict maternal transmission of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is hypothesized to permit the accumulation of mitochondrial variants that are deleterious to males but not females, a phenomenon called mother’s curse. However, direct evidence that mtDNA mutations exhibit such sexually antagonistic fitness effects is sparse. Male-specific mutational effects can occur when the physiological requirements of the mitochondria differ between the sexes. Such male-specific effects could potentially occur if sex-specific cell types or tissues have energy requirements that are differentially impacted by mutations affecting energy metabolism. Here we summarize findings from a model mitochondrial–nuclear incompatibility in the fruit fly Drosophila that demonstrates sex-biased effects, but with deleterious effects that are generally larger in females. We present new results showing that the mitochondrial–nuclear incompatibility does negatively affect male fertility, but only when males are developed at high temperatures. The temperature-dependent male sterility can be partially rescued by diet, suggesting an energetic basis. Finally, we discuss fruitful paths forward in understanding the physiological scope for sex-specific effects of mitochondrial mutations in the context of the recent discovery that many aspects of metabolism are sexually dimorphic and downstream of sex-determination pathways in Drosophila. A key parameter of these models that remains to be quantified is the fraction of mitochondrial mutations with truly male-limited fitness effects across extrinsic and intrinsic environments. Given the energy demands of reproduction in females, only a small fraction of the mitochondrial mutational spectrum may have the potential to contribute to mother’s curse in natural populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristi L Montooth
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 1104 T Street, Lincoln, NE 68502, USA
| | - Abhilesh S Dhawanjewar
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 1104 T Street, Lincoln, NE 68502, USA
| | - Colin D Meiklejohn
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 1104 T Street, Lincoln, NE 68502, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Okazaki R, Yamazoe K, Inoue YH. Nuclear Export of Cyclin B Mediated by the Nup62 Complex Is Required for Meiotic Initiation in Drosophila Males. Cells 2020; 9:E270. [PMID: 31979075 PMCID: PMC7072204 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The central channel of the nuclear pore complex plays an important role in the selective transport of proteins between the nucleus and cytoplasm. Previous studies have demonstrated that the depletion of the Nup62 complex, constructing the nuclear pore channel in premeiotic Drosophila cells, resulted in the absence of meiotic cells. We attempted to understand the mechanism underlying the cell cycle arrest before meiosis. METHODS We induced dsRNAs against the nucleoporin mRNAs using the Gal4/UAS system in Drosophila. RESULTS The cell cycle of the Nup62-depleted cells was arrested before meiosis without CDK1 activation. The ectopic over-expression of CycB, but not constitutively active CDK1, resulted in partial rescue from the arrest. CycB continued to exist in the nuclei of Nup62-depleted cells and cells depleted of exportin encoded by emb. Protein complexes containing CycB, Emb, and Nup62 were observed in premeiotic spermatocytes. CycB, which had temporally entered the nucleus, was associated with Emb, and the complex was transported back to the cytoplasm through the central channel, interacting with the Nup62 complex. Conclusion: We proposed that CycB is exported with Emb through the channel interacting with the Nup62 complex before the onset of meiosis. The nuclear export ensures the modification and formation of sufficient CycB-CDK1 in the cytoplasm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yoshihiro H. Inoue
- Department of Insect Biomedical Research, Center for Advanced Insect Research Promotion, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Kyoto, Japan; (R.O.); (K.Y.)
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Mills WK, Lee YCG, Kochendoerfer AM, Dunleavy EM, Karpen GH. RNA from a simple-tandem repeat is required for sperm maturation and male fertility in Drosophila melanogaster. eLife 2019; 8:48940. [PMID: 31687931 PMCID: PMC6879302 DOI: 10.7554/elife.48940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Tandemly-repeated DNAs, or satellites, are enriched in heterochromatic regions of eukaryotic genomes and contribute to nuclear structure and function. Some satellites are transcribed, but we lack direct evidence that specific satellite RNAs are required for normal organismal functions. Here, we show satellite RNAs derived from AAGAG tandem repeats are transcribed in many cells throughout Drosophila melanogaster development, enriched in neurons and testes, often localized within heterochromatic regions, and important for viability. Strikingly, we find AAGAG transcripts are necessary for male fertility, and that AAGAG RNA depletion results in defective histone-protamine exchange, sperm maturation and chromatin organization. Since these events happen late in spermatogenesis when the transcripts are not detected, we speculate that AAGAG RNA in primary spermatocytes ‘primes’ post-meiosis steps for sperm maturation. In addition to demonstrating essential functions for AAGAG RNAs, comparisons between closely related Drosophila species suggest that satellites and their transcription evolve quickly to generate new functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wilbur Kyle Mills
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, United States.,Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, United States
| | - Yuh Chwen G Lee
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, United States.,Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, United States.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, United States
| | | | - Elaine M Dunleavy
- Centre for Chromosome Biology, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Gary H Karpen
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, United States
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Witt E, Benjamin S, Svetec N, Zhao L. Testis single-cell RNA-seq reveals the dynamics of de novo gene transcription and germline mutational bias in Drosophila. eLife 2019; 8:e47138. [PMID: 31418408 PMCID: PMC6697446 DOI: 10.7554/elife.47138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The testis is a peculiar tissue in many respects. It shows patterns of rapid gene evolution and provides a hotspot for the origination of genetic novelties such as de novo genes, duplications and mutations. To investigate the expression patterns of genetic novelties across cell types, we performed single-cell RNA-sequencing of adult Drosophila testis. We found that new genes were expressed in various cell types, the patterns of which may be influenced by their mode of origination. In particular, lineage-specific de novo genes are commonly expressed in early spermatocytes, while young duplicated genes are often bimodally expressed. Analysis of germline substitutions suggests that spermatogenesis is a highly reparative process, with the mutational load of germ cells decreasing as spermatogenesis progresses. By elucidating the distribution of genetic novelties across spermatogenesis, this study provides a deeper understanding of how the testis maintains its core reproductive function while being a hotbed of evolutionary innovation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evan Witt
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Genetics and GenomicsThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Sigi Benjamin
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Genetics and GenomicsThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Nicolas Svetec
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Genetics and GenomicsThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Li Zhao
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Genetics and GenomicsThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Mageeney CM, Ware VC. Specialized eRpL22 paralogue-specific ribosomes regulate specific mRNA translation in spermatogenesis in Drosophila melanogaster. Mol Biol Cell 2019; 30:2240-2253. [PMID: 31188709 PMCID: PMC6743460 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e19-02-0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The functional significance of ribosome heterogeneity in development and differentiation is relatively unexplored. We present the first in vivo evidence of ribosome heterogeneity playing a role in specific mRNA translation in a multicellular eukaryote. Eukaryotic-specific ribosomal protein paralogues eRpL22 and eRpL22-like are essential in development and required for sperm maturation and fertility in Drosophila. eRpL22 and eRpL22-like roles in spermatogenesis are not completely interchangeable. Flies depleted of eRpL22 and rescued by eRpL22-like overexpression have reduced fertility, confirming that eRpL22-like cannot substitute fully for eRpL22 function, and that paralogues have functionally distinct roles, not yet defined. We investigated the hypothesis that specific RNAs differentially associate with eRpL22 or eRpL22-like ribosomes, thereby establishing distinct ribosomal roles. RNA-seq identified 12,051 transcripts (mRNAs/noncoding RNAs) with 50% being enriched on specific polysome types. Analysis of ∼10% of the most abundant mRNAs suggests ribosome specialization for translating groups of mRNAs expressed at specific stages of spermatogenesis. Further, we show enrichment of “model” eRpL22-like polysome-associated testis mRNAs can occur outside the germline within S2 cells transfected with eRpL22-like, indicating that germline-specific factors are not required for selective translation. This study reveals specialized roles in translation for eRpL22 and eRpL22-like ribosomes in germline differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Vassie C Ware
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Levings DC, Nakato H. Loss of heparan sulfate in the niche leads to tumor-like germ cell growth in the Drosophila testis. Glycobiology 2018; 28:32-41. [PMID: 29069438 PMCID: PMC5993100 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/cwx090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The stem cell niche normally prevents aberrant stem cell behaviors that lead to cancer formation. Recent studies suggest that some cancers are derived from endogenous populations of adult stem cells that have somehow escaped from normal control by the niche. However, the molecular mechanisms by which the niche retains stem cells locally and tightly controls their divisions are poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that the presence of heparan sulfate (HS), a class glygosaminoglycan chains, in the Drosophila germline stem cell niche prevents tumor formation in the testis. Loss of HS in the niche, called the hub, led to gross changes in the morphology of testes as well as the formation of both somatic and germline tumors. This loss of hub HS resulted in ectopic signaling events in the Jak/Stat pathway outside the niche. This ectopic Jak/Stat signaling disrupted normal somatic cell differentiation, leading to the formation of tumors. Our finding indicates a novel non-autonomous role for niche HS in ensuring the integrity of the niche and preventing tumor formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Levings
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, The University of Minnesota, 6-160 Jackson Hall, 321 Church St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Hiroshi Nakato
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, The University of Minnesota, 6-160 Jackson Hall, 321 Church St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
Gametogenesis represents the most dramatic cellular differentiation pathways in both female and male flies. At the genome level, meiosis ensures that diploid germ cells become haploid gametes. At the epigenome level, extensive changes are required to turn on and shut off gene expression in a precise spatiotemporally controlled manner. Research applying conventional molecular genetics and cell biology, in combination with rapidly advancing genomic tools have helped us to investigate (1) how germ cells maintain lineage specificity throughout their adult reproductive lifetime; (2) what molecular mechanisms ensure proper oogenesis and spermatogenesis, as well as protect genome integrity of the germline; (3) how signaling pathways contribute to germline-soma communication; and (4) if such communication is important. In this chapter, we highlight recent discoveries that have improved our understanding of these questions. On the other hand, restarting a new life cycle upon fertilization is a unique challenge faced by gametes, raising questions that involve intergenerational and transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. Therefore, we also discuss new developments that link changes during gametogenesis to early embryonic development-a rapidly growing field that promises to bring more understanding to some fundamental questions regarding metazoan development.
Collapse
|
39
|
Zheng Y, Bi J, Hou MY, Shen W, Zhang W, Ai H, Yu XQ, Wang YF. Ocnus is essential for male germ cell development in Drosophila melanogaster. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 27:545-555. [PMID: 29732657 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The ocnus (ocn) gene encodes a protein abundant in the testes, implying its role in testis development. When Drosophila melanogaster is infected with the endosymbiont wMel Wolbachia, which affects the spermatogenesis of its hosts, ocn is downregulated in the third-instar larval testes, suggesting a role of ocn in spermatogenesis. In this study, we knocked down ocn in the testes and found that the hatch rates of embryos derived from ocn-knockdown males were significantly decreased, and 84.38% of the testes were much smaller in comparison to controls. Analysis of the smaller testes showed no germ cells but they had an extended hub. Using RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq), we identified 69 genes with at least a twofold change (q-value < 5%) in their expression after ocn knockdown; of these, eight testes-specific and three reproduction-related genes were verified to be significantly downregulated using quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. Three genes (orientation disruptor, p24-2 and CG13541) were also significantly downregulated in the presence of Wolbachia. Furthermore, 98 genes were not expressed when ocn was knocked down in testes. These results suggest that ocn plays a crucial role in male germ cell development in Drosophila, possibly by regulating the expression of multiple spermatogenesis-related genes. Our data provide important information to help understand the molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Zheng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - J Bi
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - M-Y Hou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - W Shen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - W Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - H Ai
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - X-Q Yu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Y-F Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Abstract
Background The formation of matured and individual sperm involves a series of molecular and spectacular morphological changes of the developing cysts in Drosophila melanogaster testis. Recent advances in RNA Sequencing (RNA-Seq) technology help us to understand the complexity of eukaryotic transcriptomes by dissecting different tissues and developmental stages of organisms. To gain a better understanding of cellular differentiation of spermatogenesis, we applied RNA-Seq to analyse the testis-specific transcriptome, including coding and non-coding genes. Results We isolated three different parts of the wild-type testis by dissecting and cutting the different regions: 1.) the apical region, which contains stem cells and developing spermatocytes 2.) the middle region, with enrichment of meiotic cysts 3.) the basal region, which contains elongated post-meiotic cysts with spermatids. Total RNA was isolated from each region and analysed by next-generation sequencing. We collected data from the annotated 17412 Drosophila genes and identified 5381 genes with significant transcript accumulation differences between the regions, representing the main stages of spermatogenesis. We demonstrated for the first time the presence and region specific distribution of 2061 lncRNAs in testis, with 203 significant differences. Using the available modENCODE RNA-Seq data, we determined the tissue specificity indices of Drosophila genes. Combining the indices with our results, we identified genes with region-specific enrichment in testis. Conclusion By multiple analyses of our results and integrating existing knowledge about Drosophila melanogaster spermatogenesis to our dataset, we were able to describe transcript composition of different regions of Drosophila testis, including several stage-specific transcripts. We present searchable visualizations that can facilitate the identification of new components that play role in the organisation and composition of different stages of spermatogenesis, including the less known, but complex regulation of post-meiotic stages. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-018-5085-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
|
41
|
Uno T, Ozakiya Y, Furutani M, Sakamoto K, Uno Y, Kajiwara H, Kanamaru K, Mizoguchi A. Functional characterization of insect-specific RabX6 of Bombyx mori. Histochem Cell Biol 2018; 151:187-198. [DOI: 10.1007/s00418-018-1710-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
|
42
|
Kachaev ZM, Lebedeva LA, Kozlov EN, Toropygin IY, Schedl P, Shidlovskii YV. Paip2 is localized to active promoters and loaded onto nascent mRNA in Drosophila. Cell Cycle 2018; 17:1708-1720. [PMID: 29995569 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2018.1496738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Paip2 (Poly(A)-binding protein - interacting protein 2) is a conserved metazoan-specific protein that has been implicated in regulating the translation and stability of mRNAs. However, we have found that Paip2 is not restricted to the cytoplasm but is also found in the nucleus in Drosophila embryos, salivary glands, testes, and tissue culture cells. Nuclear Paip2 is associated with chromatin, and in chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments it maps to the promoter regions of active genes. However, this chromatin association is indirect, as it is RNA-dependent. Thus, Paip2 is one more item in the growing list of translation factors that are recruited to mRNAs co-transcriptionally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zaur M Kachaev
- a Laboratory of Gene Expression Regulation in Development , Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia
| | - Lyubov A Lebedeva
- a Laboratory of Gene Expression Regulation in Development , Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia
| | - Eugene N Kozlov
- a Laboratory of Gene Expression Regulation in Development , Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia
| | - Ilya Y Toropygin
- d Center of Common Use "Human Proteome" , V.I. Orekhovich Research Institute of Biomedical Chemistry , Moscow , Russia
| | - Paul Schedl
- a Laboratory of Gene Expression Regulation in Development , Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia.,b Department of Molecular Biology , Princeton University , Princeton , NJ , USA
| | - Yulii V Shidlovskii
- a Laboratory of Gene Expression Regulation in Development , Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia.,c Department of Biology and General Genetics , I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University , Moscow , Russia
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Ma WJ, Veltsos P, Toups MA, Rodrigues N, Sermier R, Jeffries DL, Perrin N. Tissue Specificity and Dynamics of Sex-Biased Gene Expression in a Common Frog Population with Differentiated, Yet Homomorphic, Sex Chromosomes. Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:E294. [PMID: 29895802 PMCID: PMC6027210 DOI: 10.3390/genes9060294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex-biased genes are central to the study of sexual selection, sexual antagonism, and sex chromosome evolution. We describe a comprehensive de novo assembled transcriptome in the common frog Rana temporaria based on five developmental stages and three adult tissues from both sexes, obtained from a population with karyotypically homomorphic but genetically differentiated sex chromosomes. This allows the study of sex-biased gene expression throughout development, and its effect on the rate of gene evolution while accounting for pleiotropic expression, which is known to negatively correlate with the evolutionary rate. Overall, sex-biased genes had little overlap among developmental stages and adult tissues. Late developmental stages and gonad tissues had the highest numbers of stage- or tissue-specific genes. We find that pleiotropic gene expression is a better predictor than sex bias for the evolutionary rate of genes, though it often interacts with sex bias. Although genetically differentiated, the sex chromosomes were not enriched in sex-biased genes, possibly due to a very recent arrest of XY recombination. These results extend our understanding of the developmental dynamics, tissue specificity, and genomic localization of sex-biased genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Juan Ma
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, CH 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Paris Veltsos
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, CH 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Jordan Hall, 1001 East Third Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
| | - Melissa A Toups
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, CH 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria, Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria.
| | - Nicolas Rodrigues
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, CH 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Roberto Sermier
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, CH 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Daniel L Jeffries
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, CH 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Nicolas Perrin
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, CH 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Spermiogenesis and Male Fertility Require the Function of Suppressor of Hairy-Wing in Somatic Cyst Cells of Drosophila. Genetics 2018; 209:757-772. [PMID: 29739818 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.118.301088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Drosophila Suppressor of Hairy-wing [Su(Hw)] protein is an example of a multivalent transcription factor. Although best known for its role in establishing the chromatin insulator of the gypsy retrotransposon, Su(Hw) functions as an activator and repressor at non-gypsy genomic sites. It remains unclear how the different regulatory activities of Su(Hw) are utilized during development. Motivated from observations of spatially restricted expression of Su(Hw) in the testis, we investigated the role of Su(Hw) in spermatogenesis to advance an understanding of its developmental contributions as an insulator, repressor, and activator protein. We discovered that Su(Hw) is required for sustained male fertility. Although dynamics of Su(Hw) expression coincide with changes in nuclear architecture and activation of coregulated testis-specific gene clusters, we show that loss of Su(Hw) does not disrupt meiotic chromosome pairing or transcription of testis-specific genes, suggesting that Su(Hw) has minor architectural or insulator functions in the testis. Instead, Su(Hw) has a prominent role as a repressor of neuronal genes, consistent with suggestions that Su(Hw) is a functional homolog of mammalian REST, a repressor of neuronal genes in non-neuronal tissues. We show that Su(Hw) regulates transcription in both germline and somatic cells. Surprisingly, the essential spermatogenesis function of Su(Hw) resides in somatic cyst cells, implying context-specific consequences due to loss of this transcription factor. Together, our studies highlight that Su(Hw) has a major developmental function as a transcriptional repressor, with the effect of its loss dependent upon the cell-specific factors.
Collapse
|
45
|
Laktionov PP, Maksimov DA, Romanov SE, Antoshina PA, Posukh OV, White-Cooper H, Koryakov DE, Belyakin SN. Genome-wide analysis of gene regulation mechanisms during Drosophila spermatogenesis. Epigenetics Chromatin 2018; 11:14. [PMID: 29609617 PMCID: PMC5879934 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-018-0183-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During Drosophila spermatogenesis, testis-specific meiotic arrest complex (tMAC) and testis-specific TBP-associated factors (tTAF) contribute to activation of hundreds of genes required for meiosis and spermiogenesis. Intriguingly, tMAC is paralogous to the broadly expressed complex Myb-MuvB (MMB)/dREAM and Mip40 protein is shared by both complexes. tMAC acts as a gene activator in spermatocytes, while MMB/dREAM was shown to repress gene activity in many cell types. RESULTS Our study addresses the intricate interplay between tMAC, tTAF, and MMB/dREAM during spermatogenesis. We used cell type-specific DamID to build the DNA-binding profiles of Cookie monster (tMAC), Cannonball (tTAF), and Mip40 (MMB/dREAM and tMAC) proteins in male germline cells. Incorporating the whole transcriptome analysis, we characterized the regulatory effects of these proteins and identified their gene targets. This analysis revealed that tTAFs complex is involved in activation of achi, vis, and topi meiosis arrest genes, implying that tTAFs may indirectly contribute to the regulation of Achi, Vis, and Topi targets. To understand the relationship between tMAC and MMB/dREAM, we performed Mip40 DamID in tTAF- and tMAC-deficient mutants demonstrating meiosis arrest phenotype. DamID profiles of Mip40 were highly dynamic across the stages of spermatogenesis and demonstrated a strong dependence on tMAC in spermatocytes. Integrative analysis of our data indicated that MMB/dREAM represses genes that are not expressed in spermatogenesis, whereas tMAC recruits Mip40 for subsequent gene activation in spermatocytes. CONCLUSIONS Discovered interdependencies allow to formulate a renewed model for tMAC and tTAFs action in Drosophila spermatogenesis demonstrating how tissue-specific genes are regulated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petr P Laktionov
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology SB RAS, 8/2 Lavrentyev Ave, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090
| | - Daniil A Maksimov
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology SB RAS, 8/2 Lavrentyev Ave, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090
| | - Stanislav E Romanov
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology SB RAS, 8/2 Lavrentyev Ave, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090
| | - Polina A Antoshina
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology SB RAS, 8/2 Lavrentyev Ave, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090
| | - Olga V Posukh
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology SB RAS, 8/2 Lavrentyev Ave, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090
| | | | - Dmitry E Koryakov
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology SB RAS, 8/2 Lavrentyev Ave, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090.,Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090
| | - Stepan N Belyakin
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology SB RAS, 8/2 Lavrentyev Ave, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090. .,Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Shonouda M, Osman W. Ultrastructural alterations in sperm formation of the beetle, Blaps polycresta (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) as a biomonitor of heavy metal soil pollution. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:7896-7906. [PMID: 29299863 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-1172-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about ultrastructural alterations induced by heavy metals pollution in insects. Therefore, the main objective of the present study is to elucidate ultrastructural changes in sperm formation of the tenebrionid beetle, Blaps polycresta as a biomonitor of heavy metal soil pollution. Metal percentages in testicular tissues of adult insects collected from reference and polluted sites were estimated using energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX). Only cadmium, among eight detected metals, showed significantly higher percentages in the polluted testes compared with the reference ones. Ultrastructure investigation revealed severe alterations both in spermatogenic and spermiogenic stages of the polluted insects. Some cells were totally eroded. No spermatozoa were observed in all the examined cysts. Most degenerations were confined to the flagella of spermatids having enlarged vacuolated cytoplasm and malformed mitochondrial derivatives. Groups of multiple axial filaments were appeared in the form of bi-and tetra-flagellate spermatids. Electron dense vesicles were observed in almost all stages of the polluted testes. It is a novel trend in which ultrastructural alterations in sperm formation of insects could be used as a promising biomonitoring and risk assessment tool for heavy metal soil pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mourad Shonouda
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Wafaa Osman
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Jiang M, Gao Z, Wang J, Nurminsky DI. Evidence for a hierarchical transcriptional circuit in Drosophila male germline involving testis-specific TAF and two gene-specific transcription factors, Mod and Acj6. FEBS Lett 2017; 592:46-59. [PMID: 29235675 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
To analyze transcription factors involved in gene regulation by testis-specific TAF (tTAF), tTAF-dependent promoters were mapped and analyzed in silico. Core promoters show decreased AT content, paucity of classical promoter motifs, and enrichment with translation control element CAAAATTY. Scanning of putative regulatory regions for known position frequency matrices identified 19 transcription regulators possibly contributing to tTAF-driven gene expression. Decreased male fertility associated with mutation in one of the regulators, Acj6, indicates its involvement in male reproduction. Transcriptome study of testes from male mutants for tTAF, Acj6, and previously characterized tTAF-interacting factor Modulo implies the existence of a regulatory hierarchy of tTAF, Modulo and Acj6, in which Modulo and/or Acj6 regulate one-third of tTAF-dependent genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mei Jiang
- Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Zhengliang Gao
- Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Advanced Institute of Translational Medicine, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Aquaculture Resources and Utilization, Ministry of Education, College of Fisheries and Life Science, Shanghai Ocean University, China
| | - Dmitry I Nurminsky
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Maksimov DA, Laktionov PP, Posukh OV, Belyakin SN, Koryakov DE. Genome-wide analysis of SU(VAR)3-9 distribution in chromosomes of Drosophila melanogaster. Chromosoma 2017; 127:85-102. [DOI: 10.1007/s00412-017-0647-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
49
|
Trost M, Blattner AC, Leo S, Lehner CF. Drosophila dany is essential for transcriptional control and nuclear architecture in spermatocytes. Development 2017; 143:2664-76. [PMID: 27436041 DOI: 10.1242/dev.134759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The terminal differentiation of adult stem cell progeny depends on transcriptional control. A dramatic change in gene expression programs accompanies the transition from proliferating spermatogonia to postmitotic spermatocytes, which prepare for meiosis and subsequent spermiogenesis. More than a thousand spermatocyte-specific genes are transcriptionally activated in early Drosophila spermatocytes. Here we describe the identification and initial characterization of dany, a gene required in spermatocytes for the large-scale change in gene expression. Similar to tMAC and tTAFs, the known major activators of spermatocyte-specific genes, dany has a recent evolutionary origin, but it functions independently. Like dan and danr, its primordial relatives with functions in somatic tissues, dany encodes a nuclear Psq domain protein. Dany associates preferentially with euchromatic genome regions. In dany mutant spermatocytes, activation of spermatocyte-specific genes and silencing of non-spermatocyte-specific genes are severely compromised and the chromatin no longer associates intimately with the nuclear envelope. Therefore, as suggested recently for Dan/Danr, we propose that Dany is essential for the coordination of change in cell type-specific expression programs and large-scale spatial chromatin reorganization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Trost
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences (IMLS), University of Zurich, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Ariane C Blattner
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences (IMLS), University of Zurich, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Stefano Leo
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences (IMLS), University of Zurich, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Christian F Lehner
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences (IMLS), University of Zurich, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Kogan GL, Akulenko NV, Abramov YA, Sokolova OA, Fefelova EA, Gvozdev VA. Nascent polypeptide-associated complex as tissue-specific cofactor during germinal cell differentiation in Drosophila testes. Mol Biol 2017. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893317040112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|