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Aponte PM, Gutierrez-Reinoso MA, Garcia-Herreros M. Bridging the Gap: Animal Models in Next-Generation Reproductive Technologies for Male Fertility Preservation. Life (Basel) 2023; 14:17. [PMID: 38276265 PMCID: PMC10820126 DOI: 10.3390/life14010017] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
This review aims to explore advanced reproductive technologies for male fertility preservation, underscoring the essential role that animal models have played in shaping these techniques through historical contexts and into modern applications. Rising infertility concerns have become more prevalent in human populations recently. The surge in male fertility issues has prompted advanced reproductive technologies, with animal models playing a pivotal role in their evolution. Historically, animal models have aided our understanding in the field, from early reproductive basic research to developing techniques like artificial insemination, multiple ovulation, and in vitro fertilization. The contemporary landscape of male fertility preservation encompasses techniques such as sperm cryopreservation, testicular sperm extraction, and intracytoplasmic sperm injection, among others. The relevance of animal models will undoubtedly bridge the gap between traditional methods and revolutionary next-generation reproductive techniques, fortifying our collective efforts in enhancing male fertility preservation strategies. While we possess extensive knowledge about spermatogenesis and its regulation, largely thanks to insights from animal models that paved the way for human infertility treatments, a pressing need remains to further understand specific infertility issues unique to humans. The primary aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive analysis of how animal models have influenced the development and refinement of advanced reproductive technologies for male fertility preservation, and to assess their future potential in bridging the gap between current practices and cutting-edge fertility techniques, particularly in addressing unique human male factor infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro M. Aponte
- Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales (COCIBA), Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Quito 170901, Ecuador
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Biomedicina “One-Health”, Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Campus Cumbayá, Quito 170901, Ecuador
| | - Miguel A. Gutierrez-Reinoso
- Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias y Recursos Naturales, Carrera de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Técnica de Cotopaxi (UTC), Latacunga 050150, Ecuador;
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Animal, Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción (UdeC), Chillán 3780000, Chile
| | - Manuel Garcia-Herreros
- Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária (INIAV), 2005-048 Santarém, Portugal
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2
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Bhat RA, Rafi H, Tardiolo G, Fazio F, Aragona F, Zumbo A, Coelho C, D'Alessandro E. The role of embryonic stem cells, transcription and growth factors in mammals: A review. Tissue Cell 2023; 80:102002. [PMID: 36549226 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2022.102002] [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: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Mammals represent a relevant species in worldwide cultures with significant commercial value. These animals are considered an attractive large animal model for biomedical and biotechnology research. The development of large animal experimental models may open alternative strategies for investigating stem cells (SCs) physiology and potential application in the veterinary field. The embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are known to possess natural pluripotency that confers the ability to differentiate into various tissues in vivo and in vitro. These notable characteristics can be useful for research and innovative applications, including biomedicine, agriculture and industry. Transcription factors play a crucial role in preserving stem cell self-renewal, whereas growth factors are involved in both growth and differentiation. However, to date, many questions concerning pluripotency, cellular differentiation regulator genes, and other molecules such as growth factors and their interactions in many mammalian species remain unresolved. The purpose of this review is to provide an overall review regarding the study of ESCs in mammals and briefly discuss the role of transcription and growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayees Ahmad Bhat
- Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra 136119, India
| | - Humera Rafi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Gujrat, Pakistan
| | - Giuseppe Tardiolo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci snc, Messina 98168, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci snc, Messina 98168, Italy.
| | - Francesca Aragona
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci snc, Messina 98168, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zumbo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci snc, Messina 98168, Italy
| | - Clarisse Coelho
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias (ULHT), Campo Grande 376, Lisboa 1749-024, Portugal
| | - Enrico D'Alessandro
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci snc, Messina 98168, Italy
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Xie Y, Wu C, Li Z, Wu Z, Hong L. Early Gonadal Development and Sex Determination in Mammal. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147500. [PMID: 35886859 PMCID: PMC9323860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex determination is crucial for the transmission of genetic information through generations. In mammal, this process is primarily regulated by an antagonistic network of sex-related genes beginning in embryonic development and continuing throughout life. Nonetheless, abnormal expression of these sex-related genes will lead to reproductive organ and germline abnormalities, resulting in disorders of sex development (DSD) and infertility. On the other hand, it is possible to predetermine the sex of animal offspring by artificially regulating sex-related gene expression, a recent research hotspot. In this paper, we reviewed recent research that has improved our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the development of the gonad and primordial germ cells (PGCs), progenitors of the germline, to provide new directions for the treatment of DSD and infertility, both of which involve manipulating the sex ratio of livestock offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshe Xie
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Changhua Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Zicong Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Correspondence: (Z.W.); (L.H.)
| | - Linjun Hong
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Correspondence: (Z.W.); (L.H.)
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4
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Lawlor M, Zigo M, Kerns K, Cho IK, Easley IV CA, Sutovsky P. Spermatozoan Metabolism as a Non-Traditional Model for the Study of Huntington’s Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137163. [PMID: 35806166 PMCID: PMC9266437 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington’s Disease (HD) is a fatal autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease manifested through motor dysfunction and cognitive deficits. Decreased fertility is also observed in HD animal models and HD male patients, due to altered spermatogenesis and sperm function, thus resulting in reduced fertilization potential. Although some pharmaceuticals are currently utilized to mitigate HD symptoms, an effective treatment that remedies the pathogenesis of the disease is yet to be approved by the FDA. Identification of genes and relevant diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic target pathways including glycolysis and mitochondrial complex-I-dependent respiration may be advantageous for early diagnosis, management, and treatment of the disease. This review addresses the HD pathway in neuronal and sperm metabolism, including relevant gene and protein expression in both neurons and spermatozoa, indicated in the pathogenesis of HD. Furthermore, zinc-containing and zinc-interacting proteins regulate and/or are regulated by zinc ion homeostasis in both neurons and spermatozoa. Therefore, this review also aims to explore the comparative role of zinc in both neuronal and sperm function. Ongoing studies aim to characterize the products of genes implicated in HD pathogenesis that are expressed in both neurons and spermatozoa to facilitate studies of future treatment avenues in HD and HD-related male infertility. The emerging link between zinc homeostasis and the HD pathway could lead to new treatments and diagnostic methods linking genetic sperm defects with somatic comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan Lawlor
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
| | - Michal Zigo
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
| | - Karl Kerns
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - In Ki Cho
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (I.K.C.); (C.A.E.IV)
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Charles A. Easley IV
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (I.K.C.); (C.A.E.IV)
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(573)-882-3329
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5
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Feeding role of mouse embryonic fibroblast cells is influenced by genetic background, cell passage and day of isolation. ZYGOTE 2022; 30:550-560. [PMID: 35485762 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199421000083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells are commonly used as feeder cells to maintain the pluripotent state of stem cells. MEFs produce growth factors and provide adhesion molecules and extracellular matrix (ECM) compounds for cellular binding. In the present study, we compared the expression levels of Fgf2, Bmp4, ActivinA, Lif and Tgfb1 genes at the mRNA level and the level of Fgf2 protein secretion and Lif cytokine secretion at passages one, three and five of MEFs isolated from 13.5-day-old and 15.5-day-old embryos of NMRI and C57BL/6 mice using real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We observed differences in the expression levels of the studied genes and secretion of the two growth factors in the three passages of MEFs isolated from 13.5-day-old and 15.5-day-old embryos, respectively. These differences were also observed between the NMRI and C57BL/6 strains. The results of this study suggested that researchers should use mice embryos that have different genetic backgrounds and ages, in addition to different MEF passages, when producing MEFs based on the application and type of their study.
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Jahanbani Y, Shafiee S, Davaran S, Roshangar L, Ahmadian E, Eftekhari A, Dolati S, Yousefi M. Stem cells technology as a platform for generating reproductive system organoids and treatment of infertility-related diseases. Cell Biol Int 2022; 46:512-522. [PMID: 34918417 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, stem cells have known as a helpful biological tool for the accurate diagnosis, treatment and recognition of diseases. Using stem cells as biomarkers have presented high potential in the early detection of many diseases. Another advancement in stem cell technology includes stem cell derived organoids model that could be a promising platform for diagnosis and modeling different diseases. Furthermore, therapeutic capabilities of stem cell therapy have increased hope in the face of different disability managements. All of these technologies are also widely used in reproductive related diseases especially in today's world that many couples encounter infertility problems. However, with the aid of numerous improvements in the treatment of infertility, over 80% of couples who dreamed of having children could now have children. Due to the fact that infertility has many negative effects on personal and social lives of young couples, many researchers have focused on the treatment of male and female reproductive system abnormalities with different types of stem cells, including embryonic stem cells, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and umbilical cord-derived MSCs. Also, design and formation of reproductive system organoids provide a fascinating window into disease modeling, drug screening, personalized therapy, and regeneration medicine. Utilizing these techniques to study, model and treat the infertility-related diseases has drawn attention of many scientists. This review explains different applications of stem cells in generating reproductive system organoids and stem cell-based therapies for male and female infertility related diseases treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalda Jahanbani
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Samira Shafiee
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Soodabeh Davaran
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Leila Roshangar
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Elham Ahmadian
- Kidney Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aziz Eftekhari
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Russian Institute for Advanced Study, Moscow State Pedagogical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Sanam Dolati
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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7
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Wu JX, Xia T, She LP, Lin S, Luo XM. Stem Cell Therapies for Human Infertility: Advantages and Challenges. Cell Transplant 2022; 31:9636897221083252. [PMID: 35348026 PMCID: PMC8969497 DOI: 10.1177/09636897221083252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Physical and mental health and hormonal imbalance are associated with the problems related to infertility and reproductive disorders. The rate of infertility has increased globally over the years, due to various reasons. Given the psychosocial implications of infertility and its effects on the life of the affected people, there has been an increased focus on its treatment over the last several years. Assisted reproductive technology can only solve about 50% of the cases. Moreover, it contains significant risks and does not solve the fundamental problem of infertility. As pluripotent stem cells have the potential to differentiate into almost any type of cell, they have been widely regarded as a promising option in the development of stem cell-based fertility treatments, which could even correct genetic diseases in offspring. These advancements in reproductive biotechnology present both challenges and possibilities for solving infertility problems caused by various unexplainable factors. This review briefly presents the different types of infertility disorders and the potential applications of stem cells in the treatment of these reproductive diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Xiang Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Tian Xia
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Li-Ping She
- New England Fertility Institute, Stamford, CT, USA
| | - Shu Lin
- Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
- Diabetes and Metabolism Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Xiang-Min Luo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
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8
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Hajiesmailpoor A, Emami P, Kondori BJ, Ghorbani M. Stem cell therapy as a recent advanced approach in male infertility. Tissue Cell 2021; 73:101634. [PMID: 34481231 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Infertility is one of the most common problems in the world that has negative effects on society and infertile people. Among the various causes of infertility, male infertility accounts for almost half of all infertility cases. Despite advances in medicine, current male infertility treatments such as assisted reproductive technology (ART) have not been successful in treating all types of male infertility. Recently, stem cells have been considered as therapeutic targets for many diseases, including infertility, due to their self-renewing and high differentiation. The purpose of this review is to discuss different types of male infertility and the effect of various stem cells against the treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayshe Hajiesmailpoor
- Department of Emergency Medical Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
| | - Payam Emami
- Department of Emergency Medical Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
| | - Bahman Jalali Kondori
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Masoud Ghorbani
- Applied Biotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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9
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Martin-Inaraja M, Ferreira M, Taelman J, Eguizabal C, Chuva De Sousa Lopes SM. Improving In Vitro Culture of Human Male Fetal Germ Cells. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082033. [PMID: 34440801 PMCID: PMC8393746 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Male human fetal germ cells (hFGCs) give rise to spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), which are the adult precursors of the male gametes. Human SSCs are a promising (autologous) source of cells for male fertility preservation; however, in contrast to mouse SSCs, we are still unable to culture them in the long term. Here, we investigated the effect of two different culture media and four substrates (laminin, gelatin, vitronectin and matrigel) in the culture of dissociated second trimester testes, enriched for hFGCs. After 6 days in culture, we quantified the presence of POU5F1 and DDX4 expressing hFGCs. We observed a pronounced difference in hFGC number in different substrates. The combination of gelatin-coated substrate and medium containing GDNF, LIF, FGF2 and EGF resulted in the highest percentage of hFGCs (10% of the total gonadal cells) after 6 days of culture. However, the vitronectin-coated substrate resulted in a comparable percentage of hFGCs regardless of the media used (3.3% of total cells in Zhou-medium and 4.8% of total cells in Shinohara-medium). We provide evidence that not only the choices of culture medium but also choices of the adequate substrate are crucial for optimizing culture protocols for male hFGCs. Optimizing culture conditions in order to improve the expansion of hFGCs will benefit the development of gametogenesis assays in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Martin-Inaraja
- Cell Therapy, Stem Cells and Tissues Group, Basque Centre for Blood Transfusion and Human Tissues, 48960 Galdakao, Spain; (M.M.-I.); (C.E.)
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cell Therapy, Stem Cells and Tissues Group, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Monica Ferreira
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands; (M.F.); (J.T.)
| | - Jasin Taelman
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands; (M.F.); (J.T.)
| | - Cristina Eguizabal
- Cell Therapy, Stem Cells and Tissues Group, Basque Centre for Blood Transfusion and Human Tissues, 48960 Galdakao, Spain; (M.M.-I.); (C.E.)
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cell Therapy, Stem Cells and Tissues Group, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Susana M. Chuva De Sousa Lopes
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands; (M.F.); (J.T.)
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-71-526-9350
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10
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Doungkamchan C, Orwig KE. Recent advances: fertility preservation and fertility restoration options for males and females. Fac Rev 2021; 10:55. [PMID: 34195694 PMCID: PMC8204761 DOI: 10.12703/r/10-55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation is the process of saving gametes, embryos, gonadal tissues and/or gonadal cells for individuals who are at risk of infertility due to disease, medical treatments, age, genetics, or other circumstances. Adult patients have the options to preserve eggs, sperm, or embryos that can be used in the future to produce biologically related offspring with assisted reproductive technologies. These options are not available to all adults or to children who are not yet producing mature eggs or sperm. Gonadal cells/tissues have been frozen for several thousands of those patients worldwide with anticipation that new reproductive technologies will be available in the future. Therefore, the fertility preservation medical and research communities are obligated to responsibly develop next-generation reproductive technologies and translate them into clinical practice. We briefly describe standard options to preserve and restore fertility, but the emphasis of this review is on experimental options, including an assessment of readiness for translation to the human fertility clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chatchanan Doungkamchan
- Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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11
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Regenerative Medicine Approaches in Bioengineering Female Reproductive Tissues. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:1573-1595. [PMID: 33877644 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00548-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Diseases, disorders, and dysfunctions of the female reproductive tract tissues can result in either infertility and/or hormonal imbalance. Current treatment options are limited and often do not result in tissue function restoration, requiring alternative therapeutic approaches. Regenerative medicine offers potential new therapies through the bioengineering of female reproductive tissues. This review focuses on some of the current technologies that could address the restoration of functional female reproductive tissues, including the use of stem cells, biomaterial scaffolds, bio-printing, and bio-fabrication of tissues or organoids. The use of these approaches could also be used to address issues in infertility. Strategies such as cell-based hormone replacement therapy could provide a more natural means of restoring normal ovarian physiology. Engineering of reproductive tissues and organs could serve as a powerful tool for correcting developmental anomalies. Organ-on-a-chip technologies could be used to perform drug screening for personalized medicine approaches and scientific investigations of the complex physiological interactions between the female reproductive tissues and other organ systems. While some of these technologies have already been developed, others have not been translated for clinical application. The continuous evolution of biomaterials and techniques, advances in bioprinting, along with emerging ideas for new approaches, shows a promising future for treating female reproductive tract-related disorders and dysfunctions.
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12
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Advances in Female Germ Cell Induction from Pluripotent Stem Cells. Stem Cells Int 2021; 2021:8849230. [PMID: 33510796 PMCID: PMC7822693 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8849230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cells are capable of maintaining species continuity through passing genetic and epigenetic information across generations. Female germ cells mainly develop during the embryonic stage and pass through subsequent developmental stages including primordial germ cells, oogonia, and oocyte. However, due to the limitation of using early human embryos as in vivo research model, in vitro research models are needed to reveal the early developmental process and related mechanisms of female germ cells. After birth, the number of follicles gradually decreases with age. Various conditions which damage ovarian functions would cause premature ovarian failure. Alternative treatments to solve these problems need to be investigated. Germ cell differentiation from pluripotent stem cells in vitro can simulate early embryonic development of female germ cells and clarify unresolved issues during the development process. In addition, pluripotent stem cells could potentially provide promising applications for female fertility preservation after proper in vitro differentiation. Mouse female germ cells have been successfully reconstructed in vitro and delivered to live offspring. However, the derivation of functional human female germ cells has not been fully achieved due to technical limitations and ethical issues. To provide an updated and comprehensive information, this review centers on the major studies on the differentiation of mouse and human female germ cells from pluripotent stem cells and provides references to further studies of developmental mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications of female germ cells.
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13
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Li L, Yang R, Yin C, Kee K. Studying human reproductive biology through single-cell analysis and in vitro differentiation of stem cells into germ cell-like cells. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:670-688. [PMID: 32464645 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of human reproductive development has been limited by the scarcity of human samples and ethical constraints. Recently, in vitro differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into germ cells and single-cell analyses have opened new avenues to directly study human germ cells and identify unique mechanisms in human reproductive development. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The goal of this review is to collate novel findings and insightful discoveries with these new methodologies, aiming at introducing researchers and clinicians to the use of these tools to study human reproductive biology and develop treatments for infertility. SEARCH METHODS PubMed was used to search articles and reviews with the following main keywords: in vitro differentiation, human stem cells, single-cell analysis, spermatogenesis, oogenesis, germ cells and other key terms related to these subjects. The search period included all publications from 2000 until now. OUTCOMES Single-cell analyses of human gonads have identified many important gene markers at different developmental stages and in subpopulations of cells. To validate the functional roles of these gene markers, researchers have used the in vitro differentiation of human pluripotent cells into germ cells and confirmed that some genetic requirements are unique in human germ cells and are not conserved in mouse models. Moreover, transcriptional regulatory networks and the interaction of germ and somatic cells in gonads were elucidated in these studies. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Single-cell analyses allow researchers to identify gene markers and potential regulatory networks using limited clinical samples. On the other hand, in vitro differentiation methods provide clinical researchers with tools to examine these newly identify gene markers and study the causative effects of mutations previously associated with infertility. Combining these two methodologies, researchers can identify gene markers and networks which are essential and unique in human reproductive development, thereby producing more accurate diagnostic tools for assessing reproductive disorders and developing treatments for infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Risako Yang
- Department of Biology, Colgate University, Hamilton, NY 13346, USA
| | - Chenghong Yin
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Kehkooi Kee
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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Abdyyev VK, Sant DW, Kiseleva EV, Spangenberg VE, Kolomiets OL, Andrade NS, Dashinimaev EB, Vorotelyak EA, Vasiliev AV. In vitro derived female hPGCLCs are unable to complete meiosis in embryoid bodies. Exp Cell Res 2020; 397:112358. [PMID: 33160998 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2020.112358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The fundamental question about the functionality of in vitro derived human primordial germ cell-like cells remains unanswered, despite ongoing research in this area. Attempts have been made to imitate the differentiation of human primordial germ cells (hPGCs) and meiocytes in vitro from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). A defined system for developing human haploid cells in vitro is the challenge that scientists face to advance the knowledge of human germ cell development. To develop human primordial germ cell-like cells (hPGCLCs) from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) that are capable of giving rise to haploid cells, we applied a sequential induction protocol via the early mesodermal push of female human embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells. BMP4-induced early mesoderm-like cells showed significant alterations in their expression profiles toward early (PRDM1 and NANOS3) and late (VASA and DAZL) germ cell markers. Furthermore, using retinoic acid (RA), we induced hPGCLCs in embryoid bodies and identified positive staining for the meiotic initiation marker STRA8. Efforts to find the cells exhibiting progression to meiosis were unsuccessful. The validation by the expression of SCP3 did not correspond to the natural pattern. Regarding the 20-day meiotic induction, the derived hPGCLCs containing two X-chromosomes were unable to complete the meiotic division. We observed the expression of the oocyte marker PIWIL1 and PIWIL4. RNAseq analysis and cluster dendrogram showed a similar clustering of hPGCLC groups and meiotic like cell groups as compared to previously published data. This reproducible in vitro model for deriving hPGCLCs provides opportunities for studying the molecular mechanisms involved in the specification of hPGCs. Moreover, our results will support a further elucidation of gametogenesis and meiosis of female hPGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vepa K Abdyyev
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia; Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.
| | - David W Sant
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Ekaterina V Kiseleva
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Victor E Spangenberg
- Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, The Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Oksana L Kolomiets
- Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, The Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nadja S Andrade
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Studies, Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Erdem B Dashinimaev
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia; Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University (RNRMU), Moscow, Russia
| | - Ekaterina A Vorotelyak
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia; Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrei V Vasiliev
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia; Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
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15
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Xu H, Yang M, Tian R, Wang Y, Liu L, Zhu Z, Yang S, Yuan Q, Niu M, Yao C, Zhi E, Li P, Zhou C, He Z, Li Z, Gao WQ. Derivation and propagation of spermatogonial stem cells from human pluripotent cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:408. [PMID: 32967715 PMCID: PMC7509941 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-01896-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study is designed to generate and propagate human spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). METHODS hPSCs were differentiated into SSC-like cells (SSCLCs) by a three-step strategy. The biological characteristics of SSCLCs were detected by immunostaining with antibodies against SSC markers. The ability of self-renewal was measured by propagating for a long time and still maintaining SSCs morphological property. The differentiation potential of SSCLCs was determined by the generation of spermatocytes and haploid cells, which were identified by immunostaining and flow cytometry. The transcriptome analysis of SSCLCs was performed by RNA sequencing. The biological function of SSCLCs was assessed by xeno-transplantation into busulfan-treated mouse testes. RESULTS SSCLCs were efficiently generated by a 3-step strategy. The SSCLCs displayed a grape-like morphology and expressed SSC markers. Moreover, SSCLCs could be propagated for approximately 4 months and still maintained their morphological properties. Furthermore, SSCLCs could differentiate into spermatocytes and haploid cells. In addition, SSCLCs displayed a similar gene expression pattern as human GPR125+ spermatogonia derived from human testicular tissues. And more, SSCLCs could survive and home at the base membrane of seminiferous tubules. CONCLUSION SSCLCs were successfully derived from hPSCs and propagated for a long time. The SSCLCs resembled their counterpart human GPR125+ spermatogonia, as evidenced by the grape-like morphology, transcriptome, homing, and functional characteristics. Therefore, hPSC-derived SSCLCs may provide a reliable cell source for studying human SSCs biological properties, disease modeling, and drug toxicity screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiming Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China. .,School of Biomedical Engineering & Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Mengbo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Ruhui Tian
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Yonghui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Linhong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Zijue Zhu
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Shi Yang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, China
| | - Qingqing Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Minghui Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Chencheng Yao
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Erlei Zhi
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Chenhao Zhou
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Zuping He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China.
| | - Wei-Qiang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China. .,School of Biomedical Engineering & Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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16
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Zuo Q, Jin J, Jin K, Zhou J, Sun C, Song J, Chen G, Zhang Y, Li B. P53 and H3K4me2 activate N6-methylated LncPGCAT-1 to regulate primordial germ cell formation via MAPK signaling. J Cell Physiol 2020; 235:9895-9909. [PMID: 32458486 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29805] [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: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) participate in the formation of primordial germ cells (PGCs); however, the identity of the key lncRNAs and the molecular mechanisms responsible for the formation of PGCs remain unknown. Here, we identify a key candidate lncRNA (lncRNA PGC transcript-1, LncPGCAT-1) via RNA sequencing of embryonic stem cells, PGCs, and Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Functional experiments confirmed that LncPGCAT-1 positively regulated the formation of PGCs by elevating the expression of Cvh and C-kit while downregulating the pluripotency(Nanog) in vitro and in vivo; PAS staining of genital ridges in vivo also showed that interference with LncPGCAT-1 can significantly reduce the number of PGCs in genital ridges, while overexpression of LncPGCAT-1 had the opposite result. The result of luciferase reporter assay combined with CHIP-qPCR showed that the expression of LncPGCAT-1 was promoted by the transcription factor P53 and high levels of H3K4me2. Mechanistically, the luciferase reporter assay confirmed that mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 (MAPK1) was the target gene of LncPGCAT-1 and gga-mir-1591. In the ceRNA system, high levels of N6 methylation of LncPGCAT-1 enhanced the adsorption capacity of LncPGCAT-1 for gga-mir-1591. Adsorption of gga-mir-1591 activated the MAPK1/ERK signaling cascade by relieving the gga-mir-1591-dependent inhibition of MAPK1 expression. Moreover, LncPGCAT-1 interacted with interleukin enhancer binding factor 3 (ILF3) to regulate the ubiquitination of P53 and phosphorylation of JNK. Interaction with ILF3 resulted in positive self-feedback regulation of LncPGCAT-1 and activation of JNK signaling, ultimately promoting PGC formation. Altogether, the study expands our knowledge of the function and molecular mechanisms of lncRNAs in PGC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qisheng Zuo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Jin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kai Jin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Changhua Sun
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiuzhou Song
- Department of Animal & Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Guohong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yani Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bichun Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
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17
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Kurek M, Albalushi H, Hovatta O, Stukenborg JB. Human Pluripotent Stem Cells in Reproductive Science-a Comparison of Protocols Used to Generate and Define Male Germ Cells from Pluripotent Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21031028. [PMID: 32033159 PMCID: PMC7038013 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, fertility-related issues affect around 15% of couples. In 20%–30% of cases men are solely responsible, and they contribute in around 50% of all cases. Hence, understanding of in vivo germ-cell specification and exploring different angles of fertility preservation and infertility intervention are considered hot topics nowadays, with special focus on the use of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) as a source of in vitro germ-cell generation. However, the generation of male germ cells from hPSCs can currently be considered challenging, making a judgment on the real perspective of these innovative approaches difficult. Ever since the first spontaneous germ-cell differentiation studies, using human embryonic stem cells, various strategies, including specific co-cultures, gene over-expression, and addition of growth factors, have been applied for human germ-cell derivation. In line with the variety of differentiation methods, the outcomes have ranged from early and migratory primordial germ cells up to post-meiotic spermatids. This variety of culture approaches and cell lines makes comparisons between protocols difficult. Considering the diverse strategies and outcomes, we aim in this mini-review to summarize the literature regarding in vitro derivation of human male germ cells from hPSCs, while keeping a particular focus on the culture methods, growth factors, and cell lines used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Kurek
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, 17164 Solna, Sweden; (M.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Halima Albalushi
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, 17164 Solna, Sweden; (M.K.); (H.A.)
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, 123 Muscat, Oman
| | - Outi Hovatta
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital Karolinska Institutet, 141 52 Huddinge, Sweden;
| | - Jan-Bernd Stukenborg
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, 17164 Solna, Sweden; (M.K.); (H.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-8524-82788
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18
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Bahmanpour S, Talaei Khozani T, Soleimani A, Zareifard N. Germ cell differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells can be influenced by the culture medium. Biotech Histochem 2019; 95:210-218. [PMID: 31617423 DOI: 10.1080/10520295.2019.1665711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Although embryonic stem (ES) cells can differentiate into germ cells, little is known about the influence of culture media on this process. We investigated the effect of two culture media on the capacity of ES cells to differentiate into germ cells using embryoid body (EB) and monolayer culture protocols. Germ cell differentiation was induced in mouse ES cells under four experimental conditions: EB/Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (EB/DMEM), EB/knockout Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (EB/KO-DMEM), monolayer/Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (monolayer/DMEM), and monolayer/knockout Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (monolayer/KO-DMEM). After incubation for 6 days, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to assess expression of the germ cell markers, Mvh, Oct4, Rec8, Scp1, Scp3 and Stra8. Also, Oct4 and Mvh expressions at the protein level were assessed using immunocytochemistry; we evaluated alkaline phosphatase activity in addition to cell number and viability. Germ cell-specific marker expression was increased significantly in cells differentiated in KO-DMEM for both EB and monolayer protocols; the highest level was in cultures using the EB protocol. The highest cell proliferation rate was observed using the monolayer/KO-DMEM protocol and the lowest using the EB/DMEM protocol. Generally, KO-DMEM exhibited the greatest impact on germ cell differentiation and cell proliferation. Optimization of germ cell differentiation of ES cells requires careful selection of culture medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soghra Bahmanpour
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Research, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Tahereh Talaei Khozani
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Research, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Azam Soleimani
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Research, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nehleh Zareifard
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Research, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Abdyyev VK, Dashinimayev EB, Neklyudova IV, Vorotelyak EA, Vasiliev AV. Modern Technologies Deriving Human Primordial Germ Cells in vitro. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2019; 84:220-231. [PMID: 31221060 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297919030040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are a unique type of stem cells capable of giving rise to totipotent stem cells and ensuring the fertility of an organism and the transfer of its genome to the next generation. PGC research is an important perspective research field of developmental biology that handles many questions of embryogenesis and holds promise for treatments of infertility in the future. Considering ethical concerns related to human embryos, the main research approach in understanding the biology of human PGCs is in vitro studies. In this review, we consider the historical perspective of human PGC studies in vitro, the main existing models, and further outlooks and applications in medicine and science.
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Affiliation(s)
- V K Abdyyev
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Biology, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
| | - E B Dashinimayev
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334, Russia.,Pirogov Russian Research Medical University, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - I V Neklyudova
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Biology, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - E A Vorotelyak
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Biology, Moscow, 119991, Russia. .,Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334, Russia.,Pirogov Russian Research Medical University, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - A V Vasiliev
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Biology, Moscow, 119991, Russia.,Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334, Russia
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20
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Gomes Fernandes M, Bialecka M, Salvatori DCF, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM. Characterization of migratory primordial germ cells in the aorta-gonad-mesonephros of a 4.5-week-old human embryo: a toolbox to evaluate in vitro early gametogenesis. Mol Hum Reprod 2019. [PMID: 29528446 PMCID: PMC6018722 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gay011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Which set of antibodies can be used to identify migratory and early post-migratory human primordial germ cells (hPGCs)? STUDY FINDING We validated the specificity of 33 antibodies for 31 markers, including POU5F1, NANOG, PRDM1 and TFAP2C as specific markers of hPGCs at 4.5 weeks of development of Carnegie stage (CS12–13), whereas KIT and SOX17 also marked the intra-aortic hematopoietic stem cell cluster in the aorta-gonad-mesonephros (AGM). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The dynamics of gene expression during germ cell development in mice is well characterized and this knowledge has proved crucial to allow the development of protocols for the in vitro derivation of functional gametes. Although there is a great interest in generating human gametes in vitro, it is still unclear which markers are expressed during the early stages of hPGC development and many studies use markers described in mouse to benchmark differentiation of human PGC-like cells (hPGCLCs). Early post-implantation development differs significantly between mice and humans, and so some germ cells markers, including SOX2, SOX17, IFITM3 and ITGA6 may not identify mPGCs and hPGCs equally well. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This immunofluorescence study investigated the expression of putative hPGC markers in the caudal part of a single human embryo at 4.5 weeks of development. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We have investigated by immunofluorescence the expression of a set of 33 antibodies for 31 markers, including pluripotency, germ cell, adhesion, migration, surface, mesenchymal and epigenetic markers on paraffin sections of the caudal part, including the AGM region, of a single human embryo (CS12–13). The human material used was anonymously donated with informed consent from elective abortions without medical indication. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We observed germ cell specific expression of NANOG, TFAP2C and PRDM1 in POU5F1+ hPGCs in the AGM. The epigenetic markers H3K27me3 and 5mC were sufficient to distinguish hPGCs from the surrounding somatic cells. Some mPGC-markers were not detected in hPGCs, but marked other tissues; whereas other markers, such as ALPL, SOX17, KIT, TUBB3, ITGA6 marked both POU5F1+ hPGCs and other cells in the AGM. We used a combination of multiple markers, immunostaining different cellular compartments when feasible, to decrease the chance of misidentifying hPGCs. LARGE SCALE DATA Non-applicable. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Material to study early human development is unique and very rare thus restricting the sample size. We have used a combination of antibodies limited by the number of paraffin sections available. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Most of our knowledge on early gametogenesis has been obtained from model organisms such as mice and is extrapolated to humans. However, since there is a dedicated effort to produce human artificial gametes in vitro, it is of great importance to determine the expression and specificity of human-specific germ cell markers. We provide a systematic analysis of the expression of 31 different markers in paraffin sections of a CS12–13 embryo. Our results will help to set up a toolbox of markers to evaluate protocols to induce hPGCLCs in vitro. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) M.G.F. was funded by Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT) [SFRH/BD/78689/2011] and S.M.C.S.L. was funded by the Interuniversity Attraction Poles (IAP, P7/07) and the European Research Council Consolidator (ERC-CoG-725722-OVOGROWTH). The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gomes Fernandes
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333-ZC, The Netherlands
| | - Monika Bialecka
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333-ZC, The Netherlands
| | - Daniela C F Salvatori
- Central Laboratory Animal Facility, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333-ZC, The Netherlands
| | - Susana M Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333-ZC, The Netherlands.,Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent 9000, Belgium
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21
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Eguizabal C, Aran B, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM, Geens M, Heindryckx B, Panula S, Popovic M, Vassena R, Veiga A. Two decades of embryonic stem cells: a historical overview. Hum Reprod Open 2019; 2019:hoy024. [PMID: 30895264 PMCID: PMC6396646 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoy024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How did the field of stem cell research develop in the years following the derivation of the first human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line? SUMMARY ANSWER Supported by the increasing number of clinical trials to date, significant technological advances in the past two decades have brought us ever closer to clinical therapies derived from pluripotent cells. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Since their discovery 20 years ago, the use of human pluripotent stem cells has progressed tremendously from bench to bedside. Here, we provide a concise review of the main keystones of this journey and focus on ongoing clinical trials, while indicating the most relevant future research directions. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is a historical narrative, including relevant publications in the field of pluripotent stem cells (PSC) derivation and differentiation, recounted both through scholarly research of published evidence and interviews of six pioneers who participated in some of the most relevant discoveries in the field. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The authors all contributed by researching the literature and agreed upon body of works. Portions of the interviews of the field pioneers have been integrated into the review and have also been included in full for advanced reader interest. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The stem cell field is ever expanding. We find that in the 20 years since the derivation of the first hESC lines, several relevant developments have shaped the pluripotent cell field, from the discovery of different states of pluripotency, the derivation of induced PSC, the refinement of differentiation protocols with several clinical trials underway, as well as the recent development of organoids. The challenge for the years to come will be to validate and refine PSCs for clinical use, from the production of highly defined cell populations in clinical grade conditions to the possibility of creating replacement organoids for functional, if not anatomical, function restoration. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is a non-systematic review of current literature. Some references may have escaped the experts’ analysis due to the exceedingly diverse nature of the field. As the field of regenerative medicine is rapidly advancing, some of the most recent developments may have not been captured entirely. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The multi-disciplinary nature and tremendous potential of the stem cell field has important implications for basic as well as translational research. Recounting these activities will serve to provide an in-depth overview of the field, fostering a further understanding of human stem cell and developmental biology. The comprehensive overview of clinical trials and expert opinions included in this narrative may serve as a valuable scientific resource, supporting future efforts in translational approaches. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) ESHRE provided funding for the authors’ on-site meeting and discussion during the preparation of this manuscript. S.M.C.S.L. is funded by the European Research Council Consolidator (ERC-CoG-725722-OVOGROWTH). M.P. is supported by the Special Research Fund, Bijzonder Onderzoeksfonds (BOF01D08114). M.G. is supported by the Methusalem grant of Vrije Universiteit Brussel, in the name of Prof. Karen Sermon and by Innovation by Science and Technology in Flanders (IWT, Project Number: 150042). A.V. and B.A. are supported by the Plataforma de Proteomica, Genotipado y Líneas Celulares (PT1770019/0015) (PRB3), Instituto de Salud Carlos III. Research grant to B.H. by the Research Foundation—Flanders (FWO) (FWO.KAN.2016.0005.01 and FWO.Project G051516N). There are no conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable. ESHRE Pages are not externally peer reviewed. This article has been approved by the Executive Committee of ESHRE.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Eguizabal
- Cell Therapy and Stem Cell Group, Basque Center for Blood Transfusion and Human Tissues, Barrio Labeaga S/N, Galdakao, Spain
| | - B Aran
- Barcelona Stem Cell Bank, Centre of Regenerative Medicine in Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - S M Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Ghent Fertility and Stem cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - M Geens
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Univeristeit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Jette (Brussels), Belgium
| | - B Heindryckx
- Ghent Fertility and Stem cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Panula
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - M Popovic
- Ghent Fertility and Stem cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - A Veiga
- Barcelona Stem Cell Bank, Centre of Regenerative Medicine in Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
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Okada K, Fujisawa M. Recovery of Spermatogenesis Following Cancer Treatment with Cytotoxic Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy. World J Mens Health 2018; 37:166-174. [PMID: 30588779 PMCID: PMC6479085 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.180043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 06/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The survival rates of boys and men with cancer have increased due to advances in cancer treatments; however, maintenance of quality of life, including fertility preservation, remains a major issue. Fertile male patients who receive radiation and/or chemotherapy face temporary, long-term, or permanent gonadal damage, particularly with exposure to alkylating agents and whole-body irradiation, which sometimes induce critical germ cell damage. These cytotoxic treatments have a significant impact on a patient's ability to have their own biological offspring, which is of particular concern to cancer patients of reproductive age. Therefore, various strategies are needed in order to preserve male fertility. Sperm cryopreservation is an effective method for preserving spermatozoa. Advances have also been achieved in pre-pubertal germ cell storage and research to generate differentiated male germ cells from various types of stem cells, including embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, and spermatogonial stem cells. These approaches offer hope to many patients in whom germ cell loss is associated with sterility, but are still experimental and preliminary. This review examines the current understanding of the effects of chemotherapy and radiation on male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Okada
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery Related, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan.
| | - Masato Fujisawa
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery Related, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
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Bothun AM, Gao Y, Takai Y, Ishihara O, Seki H, Karger B, Tilly JL, Woods DC. Quantitative Proteomic Profiling of the Human Ovary from Early to Mid-Gestation Reveals Protein Expression Dynamics of Oogenesis and Folliculogenesis. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 27:723-735. [PMID: 29631484 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The in vivo gene networks involved in coordinating human fetal ovarian development remain obscure. In this study, quantitative mass spectrometry was conducted on ovarian tissue collected at key stages during the first two trimesters of human gestational development, confirming the expression profiling data using immunofluorescence, as well as in vitro modeling with human oogonial stem cells (OSCs) and human embryonic stem cells (ESCs). A total of 3,837 proteins were identified in samples spanning developmental days 47-137. Bioinformatics clustering and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis identified DNA mismatch repair and base excision repair as major pathways upregulated during this time. In addition, MAEL and TEX11, two key meiosis-related proteins, were identified as highly expressed during the developmental window associated with fetal oogenesis. These findings were confirmed and extended using in vitro differentiation of OSCs into in vitro derived oocytes and of ESCs into primordial germ cell-like cells and oocyte-like cells, as models. In conclusion, the global protein expression profiling data generated by this study have provided novel insights into human fetal ovarian development in vivo and will serve as a valuable new resource for future studies of the signaling pathways used to orchestrate human oogenesis and folliculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisha M Bothun
- 1 Department of Biology, Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yuanwei Gao
- 2 Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, The Barnett Institute for Chemical and Biological Analysis, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yasushi Takai
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University , Saitama, Japan
| | - Osamu Ishihara
- 4 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University , Saitama, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Seki
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University , Saitama, Japan
| | - Barry Karger
- 2 Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, The Barnett Institute for Chemical and Biological Analysis, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jonathan L Tilly
- 1 Department of Biology, Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dori C Woods
- 1 Department of Biology, Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts
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Pourmoghadam Z, Aghebati‐Maleki L, Motalebnezhad M, Yousefi B, Yousefi M. Current approaches for the treatment of male infertility with stem cell therapy. J Cell Physiol 2018; 233:6455-6469. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Pourmoghadam
- Stem Cell Research Center Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
- Immunology Research Center Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
- Drug Applied Research Center Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
- Student Research Committee Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Leili Aghebati‐Maleki
- Immunology Research Center Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
- Department of Immunology Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | | | - Bahman Yousefi
- Drug Applied Research Center Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Drug Applied Research Center Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
- Department of Immunology Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
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de Souza AF, Pieri NCG, Roballo KCS, Bressan FF, Casals JB, Ambrósio CE, Perecin F, Martins DS. Dynamics of male canine germ cell development. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0193026. [PMID: 29489867 PMCID: PMC5831030 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0193026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are precursors of gametes that can generate new individuals throughout life in both males and females. Additionally, PGCs have been shown to differentiate into embryonic germ cells (EGCs) after in vitro culture. Most studies investigating germinative cells have been performed in rodents and humans but not dogs (Canis lupus familiaris). Here, we elucidated the dynamics of the expression of pluripotent (POU5F1 and NANOG), germline (DDX4, DAZL and DPPA3), and epigenetic (5mC, 5hmC, H3K27me3 and H3K9me2) markers that are important for the development of male canine germ cells during the early (22-30 days post-fertilization (dpf)), middle (35-40 dpf) and late (45-50 dpf) gestational periods. We performed sex genotype characterization, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analyses. Furthermore, in a preliminary study, we evaluated the capacity of canine embryo PGCs (30 dpf) to differentiate into EGCs. To confirm the canine EGCs phenotype, we performed alkaline phosphatase detection, immunohistochemistry, electron and transmission scanning microscopy and RT-qPCR analyses. The PGCs were positive for POU5F1 and H3K27me3 during all assessed developmental periods, including all periods between the gonadal tissue stage and foetal testes development. The number of NANOG, DDX4, DAZL, DPPA3 and 5mC-positive cells increased along with the developing cords from 35-50 dpf. Moreover, our results demonstrate the feasibility of inducing canine PGCs into putative EGCs that present pluripotent markers, such as POU5F1 and the NANOG gene, and exhibit reduced expression of germinative genes and increased expression of H3K27me3. This study provides new insight into male germ cell development mechanisms in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline F. de Souza
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Naira C. Godoy Pieri
- Department of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Kelly C. S. Roballo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Fabiana F. Bressan
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana B. Casals
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Carlos E. Ambrósio
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe Perecin
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniele S. Martins
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
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Cheng T, Zhai K, Chang Y, Yao G, He J, Wang F, Kong H, Xin H, Wang H, Jin M, Gong B, Gu L, Yang Z, Wu Y, Ji G, Sun Y. CHIR99021 combined with retinoic acid promotes the differentiation of primordial germ cells from human embryonic stem cells. Oncotarget 2018; 8:7814-7826. [PMID: 27999196 PMCID: PMC5352363 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.13958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) represent as a desirable experimental model as well as a potential strategy for treating male infertility. Here, we developed a simple and feasible method for differentiation of PGCs from hESCs by using CHIR99021 (an inhibitor of glycogen synthase kinase 3) and retinoic acid (RA). We firstly found that the deleted in azoospermia-like (DAZL) protein can be detected in 3 d CHIR99021 plus 9 d retinoic acid treated cultures and 12 d CHIR99021 plus retinoic acid co-treated cultures, but not expressed in single CHIR99021 treated cultures, single retinoic acid treated cultures, as well as 3 d retinoic acid plus 9 d CHIR99021 treated cultures. Next, we showed that several PGCs’ markers were expressed in the 12 d CHIR99021 and retinoic acid co-treated cultures or 3 d CHIR99021 plus 9 d retinoic acid treated cultures. Moreover, meiosis was initiated in CHIR99021 and retinoic acid co-treated cultures as evidenced by a significant expression of the punctate synaptonemal complex protein 3 (SCP3). Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis indicated that a small percentage of putative 1N populations were formed. Mechanically, we found that β-catenin relocated into nucleus after the treatment of 3 d CHIR99021 suggesting that Wnt signaling pathway was activated. Furthermore, blockade of Wnt signaling pathway by IWR-1 can reverse CHIR99021 and retinoic acid mediated-effects. Taken together, our results indicate that CHIR99021 combined with retinoic acid can effectively differentiate hESCs into PGCs via activating Wnt signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Kui Zhai
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Chang
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guidong Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiahuan He
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huijuan Kong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hang Xin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huiwen Wang
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Jin
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bing Gong
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Gu
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiguang Yang
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanyun Wu
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guangju Ji
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yingpu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Rombaut C, Mertes H, Heindryckx B, Goossens E. Human in vitro spermatogenesis from pluripotent stem cells: in need of a stepwise differentiation protocol? Mol Hum Reprod 2017; 24:47-54. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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28
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Retinoic acid induces differentiation of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) embryonic stem cells into germ cells. Gene 2017; 631:54-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2017.07.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Gebel J, Tuppi M, Krauskopf K, Coutandin D, Pitzius S, Kehrloesser S, Osterburg C, Dötsch V. Control mechanisms in germ cells mediated by p53 family proteins. J Cell Sci 2017:jcs.204859. [PMID: 28794013 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.204859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cells are totipotent and, in principle, immortal as they are the source for new germ cells in each generation. This very special role requires tight quality control systems. The p53 protein family constitutes one of the most important quality surveillance systems in cells. Whereas p53 has become famous for its role as the guardian of the genome in its function as the most important somatic tumor suppressor, p63 has been nicknamed 'guardian of the female germ line'. p63 is strongly expressed in resting oocytes and responsible for eliminating those that carry DNA double-strand breaks. The third family member, p73, acts later during oocyte and embryo development by ensuring correct assembly of the spindle assembly checkpoint. In addition to its role in the female germ line, p73 regulates cell-cell contacts between developing sperm cells and supporting somatic cells in the male germ line. Here, we review the involvement of the p53 protein family in the development of germ cells with a focus on quality control in the female germ line and discuss medical implications for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Gebel
- Institute of Biophysical Chemistry and Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Goethe University, Max von Laue-Str. 9, Frankfurt am Main 60438, Germany
| | - Marcel Tuppi
- Institute of Biophysical Chemistry and Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Goethe University, Max von Laue-Str. 9, Frankfurt am Main 60438, Germany
| | - Katharina Krauskopf
- Institute of Biophysical Chemistry and Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Goethe University, Max von Laue-Str. 9, Frankfurt am Main 60438, Germany
| | - Daniel Coutandin
- Institute of Biophysical Chemistry and Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Goethe University, Max von Laue-Str. 9, Frankfurt am Main 60438, Germany
| | - Susanne Pitzius
- Institute of Biophysical Chemistry and Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Goethe University, Max von Laue-Str. 9, Frankfurt am Main 60438, Germany
| | - Sebastian Kehrloesser
- Institute of Biophysical Chemistry and Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Goethe University, Max von Laue-Str. 9, Frankfurt am Main 60438, Germany
| | - Christian Osterburg
- Institute of Biophysical Chemistry and Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Goethe University, Max von Laue-Str. 9, Frankfurt am Main 60438, Germany
| | - Volker Dötsch
- Institute of Biophysical Chemistry and Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Goethe University, Max von Laue-Str. 9, Frankfurt am Main 60438, Germany
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Abstract
The germ cell lineage originates early in development and undergoes a series of complex developmental processes that culminate in the generation of fully matured gametes, the spermatozoa and the oocytes. Remarkably, researchers have been recapitulating these developmental pathways using mouse and human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). With further studies, including those involving non-human primate models, human gametogenesis may be fully reconstituted from PSCs, which would profoundly facilitate our understanding of human germ cell development and infertility. Here we discuss groundbreaking studies that lay the foundation for this achievement, the current state of the field, and challenges for deriving gametes from hPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitinori Saitou
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan; JST, ERATO, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan; Center for Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan.
| | - Hidetaka Miyauchi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
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Retinoic acid induces differentiation of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) embryonic stem cells into germ cells. Gene 2017; 626:358-366. [PMID: 28526652 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2017.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Development of precise and reproducible culture system for in vitro differentiation of embryonic stem (ES) cells into germ cells counts as a major leap forward for understanding not only the remarkable process of gametogenesis, otherwise obscured by limited availability of precursor primordial germ cells (PGCs), but in finally treating the catastrophic infertility. Taking into account the significant role of retinoic acid (RA) during in vivo gametogenesis, we designed the present study to investigate the effects of its stimulation on directing the differentiation of ES cells into germ cells. The effects of RA were analyzed across dose-and-time upon various stages of gametogenesis like PGC induction, meiosis initiation and completion, haploid cell formation and development of the final gamete (oocyte and spermatozoa). Out of the series of RA doses (2, 4, 8, 16, 20 and 30μM), 16μM RA for 8day culture interval was found to induce highest expression of PGC- and meiosis-associated genes like DAZL, VASA, SYCP3, MLH1, TNP1/2 and PRM2, while mature germ cell genes like BOULE and TEKT1 (Spermatocyte markers), GDF9 and ZP2 (Oocyte markers) showed higher expression at 2μM RA dose, suggesting functional concentration-gradient of RA activity. Immunocytochemistry revealed expression of germ lineage-specific markers like: c-KIT, DAZL and VASA (PGC-markers); SYCP3, MLH1 and PROTAMINE1 (Meiotic-markers); ACROSIN and HAPRIN (Spermatocyte-markers); and GDF9 and ZP4 (Oocyte-markers) in optimally differentiated embryoid bodies (EBs) and adherent cultures. We observed significantly reduced (p<0.05) concentration of 5-methyl-2-deoxycytidine in RA-differentiated EBs which is suggestive of the occurrence of methylation erasure. FACS analysis of optimally differentiated cultures detected 3.07% haploid cell population, indicating completion of meiosis. Oocyte-like structures (OLS) were obtained in adherent differentiated cultures. They had a big nucleus and a zona pellucida (ZP4) coat. They showed progression through 2-cell, 4-cell, 8-cell, morula and blastocyst-like structures upon extended culture beyond 14days.
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Vanni VS, Viganò P, Papaleo E, Mangili G, Candiani M, Giorgione V. Advances in improving fertility in women through stem cell-based clinical platforms. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2017; 17:585-593. [PMID: 28351161 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2017.1305352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Due to their regenerative ability, stem cells are looked at as a promising tool for improving infertility treatments in women. As the main limiting factor in female fertility is represented by the decrease of ovarian reserve, the main goals of stem cell-based clinical platforms would be to obtain in vitro or in vivo neo-oogenesis. Refractory endometrial factor infertility also represents an obstacle for female reproduction for which stem cells might provide novel treatment strategies. Areas covered: A systematic search of the literature was performed on MEDLINE/PubMed database to identify relevant articles using stem-cell based clinical or research platforms in the field of female infertility. Expert opinion: In vitro oogenesis has not so far developed beyond the stage of oocyte-like cells whose normal progression to mature oocytes and ability to be fertilized was not proved. Extensive epigenetic programming of gamete precursors and the complex interactions between somatic and germ cells required for human oogenesis likely represent the main obstacles in stem-cell-based neo-oogenesis. Also resuming oogenesis in vivo in adulthood still appears a distant hypothesis, as there is still a lack of consensus about the existence and functionality of adult ovarian stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Stella Vanni
- a Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit , IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital , Milano , Italy.,b Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit , Vita-Salute San Raffaele University , Milano , Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- c Division of Genetics and Cell Biology , IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital , Milano , Italy
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- a Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit , IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital , Milano , Italy
| | - Giorgia Mangili
- a Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit , IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital , Milano , Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- a Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit , IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital , Milano , Italy.,b Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit , Vita-Salute San Raffaele University , Milano , Italy
| | - Veronica Giorgione
- a Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit , IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital , Milano , Italy.,b Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit , Vita-Salute San Raffaele University , Milano , Italy
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Shah SM, Saini N, Ashraf S, Singh MK, Manik RS, Singla SK, Palta P, Chauhan MS. Cumulus cell-conditioned medium supports embryonic stem cell differentiation to germ cell-like cells. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:679-693. [DOI: 10.1071/rd15159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cumulus cells provide cellular interactions and growth factors required for oogenesis. In vitro studies of oogenesis are limited primarily because of the paucity of their source, first trimester fetal gonads, and the small number of germ lineage precursor cells present within these tissues. In order to understand this obscure but vitally important process, the present study was designed to direct differentiation of embryonic stem (ES) cells into germ lineage cells. For this purpose, buffalo ES cells were differentiated, as embryoid bodies (EBs) and monolayer adherent cultures, in the presence of different concentrations of cumulus-conditioned medium (CCM; 10%, 20% and 40%) for different periods of culture (4, 8 and 14 days) to identify the optimum differentiation-inducing concentration and time. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that 20%–40% CCM induced the highest expression of primordial germ cell-specific (deleted in Azoospermia- like (Dazl), dead (Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp) box polypeptide 4 (Vasa also known as DDX4) and promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger protein (Plzf)); meiotic (synaptonemal complex protein 3 (Sycp3), mutl homolog I (Mlh1), transition protein 1/2 (Tnp1/2) and protamine 2 (Prm2); spermatocyte-specific boule-like RNA binding protein (Boule) and tektin 1 (Tekt1)) and oocyte-specific growth differentiation factor 9 (Gdf9) and zona pellucida 2 /3 (Zp2/3)) genes over 8–14 days in culture. Immunocytochemical analysis revealed expression of primordial germ cell (c-KIT, DAZL and VASA), meiotic (SYCP3, MLH1 and PROTAMINE 1), spermatocyte (ACROSIN and HAPRIN) and oocyte (GDF9 and ZP4) markers in both EBs and monolayer differentiation cultures. Western blotting revealed germ lineage-specific protein expression in Day 14 EBs. The significantly lower (P < 0.05) concentration of 5-methyl-2-deoxycytidine in differentiated EBs compared to undifferentiated EBs suggests that methylation erasure may have occurred. Oocyte-like structures obtained in monolayer differentiation stained positive for ZONA PELLUCIDA protein 4 and progressed through various embryo-like developmental stages in extended cultures.
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Mouka A, Tachdjian G, Dupont J, Drévillon L, Tosca L. In Vitro Gamete Differentiation from Pluripotent Stem Cells as a Promising Therapy for Infertility. Stem Cells Dev 2016; 25:509-21. [PMID: 26873432 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2015.0230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Generation of gametes derived in vitro from pluripotent stem cells holds promising prospects for future reproductive applications. Indeed, it provides information on molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying germ cell (GC) development and could offer a new potential treatment for infertility. Great progress has been made in derivation of gametes from embryonic stem cells, despite ethical issues. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) technology allows the reprogramming of a differentiated somatic cell, possibly emanating from the patient, into a pluripotent state. With the emergence of iPSCs, several studies created primordial GC stage to mature gamete-like cells in vitro in mice and humans. Recent findings in GC derivation suggest that in mice, functional gametes can be generated in vitro. This strengthens the idea that it might be possible in the future to generate functional human sperm and oocytes from pluripotent stem cells in culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Mouka
- 1 AP-HP, Service d'Histologie, Embryologie et Cytogénétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Sud , Clamart, France .,2 Université Paris-Sud , Le Kremlin-Bicêtre Cedex, France
| | - Gérard Tachdjian
- 1 AP-HP, Service d'Histologie, Embryologie et Cytogénétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Sud , Clamart, France .,2 Université Paris-Sud , Le Kremlin-Bicêtre Cedex, France
| | - Joëlle Dupont
- 3 Unité de Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique , Nouzilly, France
| | - Loïc Drévillon
- 1 AP-HP, Service d'Histologie, Embryologie et Cytogénétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Sud , Clamart, France
| | - Lucie Tosca
- 1 AP-HP, Service d'Histologie, Embryologie et Cytogénétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Sud , Clamart, France .,2 Université Paris-Sud , Le Kremlin-Bicêtre Cedex, France
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Lai D, Guo Y, Zhang Q, Chen Y, Xiang C. Differentiation of human menstrual blood-derived endometrial mesenchymal stem cells into oocyte-like cells. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2016; 48:998-1005. [PMID: 27590065 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmw090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Human endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (EnSCs) derived from menstrual blood are a unique stem cell source. Evidence suggests that EnSCs exhibit a multi-lineage potential and have attracted extensive attention in regenerative medicine. However, the potential of EnSCs to differentiate into germline cells in vitro remains unclear. In this study, EnSCs were induced to differentiate into germ cells in a differentiation medium supplemented with 20% human follicular fluid. Our results demonstrated that EnSCs derived from human menstrual blood form oocyte-like cells and express germ cell markers. The induced cell aggregates contained not only oocyte-like structures but also cells expressing follicle stimulating hormone receptor and luteotropic hormone receptor, and produced estrogen and progesterone regulated by gonodatropin, suggesting that granulosa-like and theca-like cells were also induced. We further found that granulosa cells promote the development of oocyte-like cells and activate the induction of blastocyst-like structures derived from EnSCs. In conclusion, EnSCs may potentially represent an in vitro system for the investigation of human folliculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei Lai
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Ying Guo
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Qiuwan Zhang
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Yifei Chen
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Charlie Xiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
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Shah SM, Saini N, Singh MK, Manik R, Singla SK, Palta P, Chauhan MS. Testicular cell–conditioned medium supports embryonic stem cell differentiation toward germ lineage and to spermatocyte- and oocyte-like cells. Theriogenology 2016; 86:715-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2015] [Revised: 01/31/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Sadeghian-Nodoushan F, Aflatoonian R, Borzouie Z, Akyash F, Fesahat F, Soleimani M, Aghajanpour S, Moore HD, Aflatoonian B. Pluripotency and differentiation of cells from human testicular sperm extraction: An investigation of cell stemness. Mol Reprod Dev 2016; 83:312-23. [PMID: 27077675 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Human male germ-line stem cells (hmGSCs) and human testis-derived embryonic stem cell-like (htESC-like) cells are claimed to be in vitro pluripotent counterparts of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), but the origin and pluripotency of human testis-derived cell cultures are still under debate. The aim of this study was to generate putative pluripotent stem cells in vitro from human testicular sperm-extracted (TESE) samples of infertile men, and to assess their pluripotency and capacity to differentiate. TESE samples were minced, enzymatically disaggregated and dispersed into single-cell or cluster suspensions, and then cultured. Initially, cell clusters resembled those described for hmGSCs and htESC-like cells, and were positive for markers such as OCT4/POU5F1, NANOG, and TRA-2-54. Prolonged propagation of cell clusters expressing pluripotency markers did not thrive; instead, the cells that emerged possessed characteristics of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) such as STRO-1, CD105/EGLN1, CD13/ANPEP, SOX9, vimentin, and fibronectin. KIT, SOX2, and CD44 were not expressed by these MSCs. The multipotential differentiation capacity of these cells was confirmed using Oil Red-O and Alizarin Red staining after induction with specific culture conditions. It is therefore concluded that pluripotent stem cells could not be derived using the conditions previously reported to be successful for TESE samples.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Borzouie
- Stem Cell Biology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Akyash
- Stem Cell Biology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Fesahat
- Stem Cell Biology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Soleimani
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Samaneh Aghajanpour
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Harry D Moore
- Centre for Stem Cell Biology (CSCB), Department of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Alfred Denny Building, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Behrouz Aflatoonian
- Stem Cell Biology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Jung D, Kee K. Insights into female germ cell biology: from in vivo development to in vitro derivations. Asian J Androl 2016; 17:415-20. [PMID: 25652637 PMCID: PMC4430939 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.148077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms of human germ cell biology is important for developing infertility treatments. However, little is known about the mechanisms that regulate human gametogenesis due to the difficulties in collecting samples, especially germ cells during fetal development. In contrast to the mitotic arrest of spermatogonia stem cells in the fetal testis, female germ cells proceed into meiosis and began folliculogenesis in fetal ovaries. Regulations of these developmental events, including the initiation of meiosis and the endowment of primordial follicles, remain an enigma. Studying the molecular mechanisms of female germ cell biology in the human ovary has been mostly limited to spatiotemporal characterizations of genes or proteins. Recent efforts in utilizing in vitro differentiation system of stem cells to derive germ cells have allowed researchers to begin studying molecular mechanisms during human germ cell development. Meanwhile, the possibility of isolating female germline stem cells in adult ovaries also excites researchers and generates many debates. This review will mainly focus on presenting and discussing recent in vivo and in vitro studies on female germ cell biology in human. The topics will highlight the progress made in understanding the three main stages of germ cell developments: namely, primordial germ cell formation, meiotic initiation, and folliculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kehkooi Kee
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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Malaver-Ortega LF, Sumer H, Jain K, Verma PJ. Bone morphogenetic protein 4 and retinoic acid trigger bovine VASA homolog expression in differentiating bovine induced pluripotent stem cells. Mol Reprod Dev 2016; 83:149-61. [PMID: 26660942 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are the earliest identifiable and completely committed progenitors of female and male gametes. They are obvious targets for genome editing because they assure the transmission of desirable or introduced traits to future generations. PGCs are established at the earliest stages of embryo development and are difficult to propagate in vitro--two characteristics that pose a problem for their practical application. One alternative method to enrich for PGCs in vitro is to differentiate them from pluripotent stem cells derived from adult tissues. Here, we establish a reporter system for germ cell identification in bovine pluripotent stem cells based on green fluorescent protein expression driven by the minimal essential promoter of the bovine Vasa homolog (BVH) gene, whose regulatory elements were identified by orthologous modelling of regulatory units. We then evaluated the potential of bovine induced pluripotent stem cell (biPSC) lines carrying the reporter construct to differentiate toward the germ cell lineage. Our results showed that biPSCs undergo differentiation as embryoid bodies, and a fraction of the differentiating cells expressed BVH. The rate of differentiation towards BVH-positive cells increased up to tenfold in the presence of bone morphogenetic protein 4 or retinoic acid. Finally, we determined that the expression of key PGC genes, such as BVH or SOX2, can be modified by pre-differentiation cell culture conditions, although this increase is not necessarily mirrored by an increase in the rate of differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Huseyin Sumer
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
| | - Kanika Jain
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul J Verma
- South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), Turretfield Research Centre, Rosedale, SA, Australia
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RETRACTED: Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) induces buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) embryonic stem cell differentiation into germ cells. Biochimie 2015; 119:113-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2015.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Nikolic A, Volarevic V, Armstrong L, Lako M, Stojkovic M. Primordial Germ Cells: Current Knowledge and Perspectives. Stem Cells Int 2015; 2016:1741072. [PMID: 26635880 PMCID: PMC4655300 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1741072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a condition that occurs very frequently and understanding what defines normal fertility is crucial to helping patients. Causes of infertility are numerous and the treatment often does not lead to desired pregnancy especially when there is a lack of functional gametes. In humans, the primordial germ cell (PGC) is the primary undifferentiated stem cell type that will differentiate towards gametes: spermatozoa or oocytes. With the development of stem cell biology and differentiation protocols, PGC can be obtained from pluripotent stem cells providing a new therapeutic possibility to treat infertile couples. Recent studies demonstrated that viable mouse pups could be obtained from in vitro differentiated stem cells suggesting that translation of these results to human is closer. Therefore, the aim of this review is to summarize current knowledge about PGC indicating the perspective of their use in both research and medical application for the treatment of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar Nikolic
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 69 Svetozara Markovica Street, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Vladislav Volarevic
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 69 Svetozara Markovica Street, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Lyle Armstrong
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, The International Centre for Life, Central Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Majlinda Lako
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, The International Centre for Life, Central Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Miodrag Stojkovic
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 69 Svetozara Markovica Street, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
- Spebo Medical, Norvezanska 16, 16 000 Leskovac, Serbia
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Saito S, Lin YC, Murayama Y, Nakamura Y, Eckner R, Niemann H, Yokoyama KK. Retracted article: In vitro derivation of mammalian germ cells from stem cells and their potential therapeutic application. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:4545-60. [PMID: 26439925 PMCID: PMC4628088 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-2020-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2015] [Revised: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are a unique type of cells because they
exhibit the characteristics of self-renewal and pluripotency. PSCs may be induced to
differentiate into any cell type, even male and female germ cells, suggesting their
potential as novel cell-based therapeutic treatment for infertility problems.
Spermatogenesis is an intricate biological process that starts from self-renewal of
spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and leads to differentiated haploid spermatozoa.
Errors at any stage in spermatogenesis may result in male infertility. During the
past decade, much progress has been made in the derivation of male germ cells from
various types of progenitor stem cells. Currently, there are two main approaches for
the derivation of functional germ cells from PSCs, either the induction of in vitro
differentiation to produce haploid cell products, or combination of in vitro
differentiation and in vivo transplantation. The production of mature and fertile
spermatozoa from stem cells might provide an unlimited source of autologous gametes
for treatment of male infertility. Here, we discuss the current state of the art
regarding the differentiation potential of SSCs, embryonic stem cells, and induced
pluripotent stem cells to produce functional male germ cells. We also discuss the
possible use of livestock-derived PSCs as a novel option for animal reproduction and
infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeo Saito
- Saito Laboratory of Cell Technology, Yaita, Tochigi, 329-1571, Japan. .,SPK Co., Ltd., Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima, 965-0025, Japan. .,College of Engineering, Nihon University, Koriyama, Fukushima, 963-8642, Japan.
| | - Ying-Chu Lin
- School of Dentistry, College of Dental Medicine, Kaoshiung Medical University, 100 Shin-Chuan 1st Road, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Yoshinobu Murayama
- College of Engineering, Nihon University, Koriyama, Fukushima, 963-8642, Japan
| | - Yukio Nakamura
- Cell Engineering Division, RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, 3050074, Japan
| | - Richard Eckner
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, 07101, USA
| | - Heiner Niemann
- Institute of Farm Animal Genetics, Friedrich-Löffler-Institut, Mariensee, 31535, Neustadt, Germany.
| | - Kazunari K Yokoyama
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Center of Stem Cell Research, Center of Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Shih-Chuan 1st Rd, San Ming District, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan. .,Faculty of Science and Engineering, Tokushima Bunri University, Sanuki, 763-2193, Japan. .,Department of Molecular Preventive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
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Vassena R, Eguizabal C, Heindryckx B, Sermon K, Simon C, van Pelt AMM, Veiga A, Zambelli F. Stem cells in reproductive medicine: ready for the patient? Hum Reprod 2015. [PMID: 26202914 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are there effective and clinically validated stem cell-based therapies for reproductive diseases? SUMMARY ANSWER At the moment, clinically validated stem cell treatments for reproductive diseases and alterations are not available. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Research in stem cells and regenerative medicine is growing in scope, and its translation to the clinic is heralded by the recent initiation of controlled clinical trials with pluripotent derived cells. Unfortunately, stem cell 'treatments' are currently offered to patients outside of the controlled framework of scientifically sound research and regulated clinical trials. Both physicians and patients in reproductive medicine are often unsure about stem cells therapeutic options. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION An international working group was assembled to review critically the available scientific literature in both the human species and animal models. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS This review includes work published in English until December 2014, and available through Pubmed. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A few areas of research in stem cell and reproductive medicine were identified: in vitro gamete production, endometrial regeneration, erectile dysfunction amelioration, vaginal reconstruction. The stem cells studied range from pluripotent (embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells) to monopotent stem cells, such as spermatogonial stem cells or mesenchymal stem cells. The vast majority of studies have been carried out in animal models, with data that are preliminary at best. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This review was not conducted in a systematic fashion, and reports in publications not indexed in Pubmed were not analyzed. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS A much broader clinical knowledge will have to be acquired before translation to the clinic of stem cell therapies in reproductive medicine; patients and physicians should be wary of unfounded claims of improvement of existing medical conditions; at the moment, effective stem cell treatment for reproductive diseases and alterations is not available. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS None. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - C Eguizabal
- Cell Therapy and Stem Cell Laboratory, Basque Center for Transfusion and Human Tissues, Galdakao, Spain
| | - B Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - K Sermon
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universtiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Simon
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), and Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Valencia University & INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - A M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A Veiga
- Reproductive Medicine Service, Hospital Universitari Quiron Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain Stem Cell Bank, Centre for Regenerative Medicine of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Zambelli
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universtiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium S.I.S.Me.R. Reproductive Medicine Unit, Bologna, Italy
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CHEN HUI, TANG QIULING, WU XIAOYING, XIE LICHUN, LIN LIMIN, HO GUYU, MA LIAN. Differentiation of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells into germ-like cells in mouse seminiferous tubules. Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:819-28. [PMID: 25815600 PMCID: PMC4438948 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.3528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2013] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Our previous study demonstrated that human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSCs) were capable of differentiation into germ cells in vitro. To assess this potential in vivo, HUMSCs were microinjected into the lumen of seminiferous tubules of immunocompetent mice, which were treated with busulfan to destroy endogenous spermatogenesis. Bromodeoxyuridine labeling studies demonstrated that HUMSCs survived in the tubule for at least 120 days, exhibited a round cell shape typical of proliferating or differentiating germ cells, migrated to the basement of the tubule, where proliferating spermatogonia reside and returned to the luminal compartment, where differentiating spermatids and spermatozoa reside. The migration pattern resembled that of germ cell development in vivo. Immunohistochemical and colocalization studies revealed that transplanted HUMSCs expressed the germ cell markers octamer-binding transcription factor 4, α6 integrin, C-kit and VASA, confirming the germ cell differentiation. In addition, it was observed that tubules transplanted with HUMSCs exhibited marked improvement in the histological features damaged by the chemotherapeutic busulfan, as judged by morphology and quantitative histology. Taken together, these data demonstrated the capacity of HUMSCs to form germ cells in the testes and to repair testicular tissue. These findings suggest a potential utility of HUMSCs to treat the infertility and testicular insufficiency caused by cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- HUI CHEN
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - QIU-LING TANG
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - XIAO-YING WU
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - LI-CHUN XIE
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - LI-MIN LIN
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - GU-YU HO
- Department of Transformation Medical Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - LIAN MA
- Department of Pediatrics, Shenzhen Pingshan Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518122, P.R. China
- Correspondence to: Professor Lian Ma, Department of Pediatrics, Shenzhen Pingshan Maternal and Child Health Hospital, 6 Longxing South Road, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518122, P.R. China, E-mail:
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Moreno I, Míguez-Forjan JM, Simón C. Artificial gametes from stem cells. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2015; 42:33-44. [PMID: 26161331 PMCID: PMC4496429 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2015.42.2.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Revised: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The generation of artificial gametes is a real challenge for the scientific community today. In vitro development of human eggs and sperm will pave the way for the understanding of the complex process of human gametogenesis and will provide with human gametes for the study of infertility and the onset of some inherited disorders. However, the great promise of artificial gametes resides in their future application on reproductive treatments for all these people wishing to have genetically related children and for which gamete donation is now their unique option of parenthood. This is the case of infertile patients devoid of suitable gametes, same sex couples, singles and those fertile couples in a high risk of transmitting serious diseases to their progeny. In the search of the best method to obtain artificial gametes, many researchers have successfully obtained human germ cell-like cells from stem cells at different stages of differentiation. In the near future, this field will evolve to new methods providing not only viable but also functional and safe artificial germ cells. These artificial sperm and eggs should be able to recapitulate all the genetic and epigenetic processes needed for the correct gametogenesis, fertilization and embryogenesis leading to the birth of a healthy and fertile newborn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inmaculada Moreno
- Department of Research and Development, Igenomix S.L., Paternam, Spain
| | | | - Carlos Simón
- Department of Research and Development, Igenomix S.L., Paternam, Spain. ; Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Valencia, Spain. ; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Bahmanpour S, Zarei Fard N, Talaei-Khozani T, Hosseini A, Esmaeilpour T. Effect of BMP4 preceded by retinoic acid and co-culturing ovarian somatic cells on differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells into oocyte-like cells. Dev Growth Differ 2015; 57:378-388. [PMID: 26041547 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2014] [Revised: 04/12/2015] [Accepted: 04/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) and retinoic acid (RA) signaling are the key regulators for germ cell and meiosis induction, respectively. Gonadal tissue also provides an appropriate microenvironment for oocyte differentiation in vivo. The current study aimed to determine whether mimicking in vivo niche is more efficient for oocyte differentiation from embryonic stem (ES) cells. Here, differentiation of mouse ES cells toward oocyte-like cells using embryoid body (EB) and monolayer protocols was induced in the presence (+BMP4) or absence (-BMP4) of BMP4. On day 5, each group was co-cultured with ovarian somatic cells in the presence or absence of RA (+RA or -RA) for an additional 14 days. Our results showed a significant increase in expression of meiotic markers in the +BMP4 condition in EB differentiation protocol. Further differentiation with ovarian somatic cells led to a subpopulation of oocyte-like cell formation. Compared to the controls, the +RA condition resulted in a significant elevation of the meiotic gene expression in contrast to Oct4 that significantly decreased in both protocols. In the cells pre-treated with BMP4 and then exposed to RA in the monolayer differentiation protocol, the gene expression levels of germ cell, Mvh, and maturation markers, Cx37, Zp2, and Gdf9, were also upregulated significantly. Therefore, it can be concluded that +BMP4 and +RA along with ovarian somatic cell co-culture improved the rate of in vitro oocyte differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soghra Bahmanpour
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nehleh Zarei Fard
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Tahereh Talaei-Khozani
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ahmad Hosseini
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Tahereh Esmaeilpour
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Easley CA, Bradner JM, Moser A, Rickman CA, McEachin ZT, Merritt MM, Hansen JM, Caudle WM. Assessing reproductive toxicity of two environmental toxicants with a novel in vitro human spermatogenic model. Stem Cell Res 2015; 14:347-55. [PMID: 25863443 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2015.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Revised: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental influences and insults by reproductive toxicant exposure can lead to impaired spermatogenesis or infertility. Understanding how toxicants disrupt spermatogenesis is critical for determining how environmental factors contribute to impaired fertility. While current animal models are available, understanding of the reproductive toxic effects on human fertility requires a more robust model system. We recently demonstrated that human pluripotent stem cells can differentiate into spermatogonial stem cells/spermatogonia, primary and secondary spermatocytes, and haploid spermatids; a model that mimics many aspects of human spermatogenesis. Here, using this model system, we examine the effects of 2-bromopropane (2-BP) and 1,2,dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP) on in vitro human spermatogenesis. 2-BP and DBCP are non-endocrine disrupting toxicants that are known to impact male fertility. We show that acute treatment with either 2-BP or DBCP induces a reduction in germ cell viability through apoptosis. 2-BP and DBCP affect viability of different cell populations as 2-BP primarily reduces spermatocyte viability, whereas DBCP exerts a much greater effect on spermatogonia. Acute treatment with 2-BP or DBCP also reduces the percentage of haploid spermatids. Both 2-BP and DBCP induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation leading to an oxidized cellular environment. Taken together, these results suggest that acute exposure with 2-BP or DBCP causes human germ cell death in vitro by inducing ROS formation. This system represents a unique platform for assessing human reproductive toxicity potential of various environmental toxicants in a rapid, efficient, and unbiased format.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles A Easley
- Laboratory of Translational Cell Biology, Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Joshua M Bradner
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Heath, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Center for Neurodegenerative Disease, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Amber Moser
- Laboratory of Translational Cell Biology, Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Chelsea A Rickman
- Laboratory of Translational Cell Biology, Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Zachary T McEachin
- Laboratory of Translational Cell Biology, Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Tech College of Engineering, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Megan M Merritt
- Laboratory of Translational Cell Biology, Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Jason M Hansen
- Division of Pulmonology, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - W Michael Caudle
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Heath, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Center for Neurodegenerative Disease, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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48
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Zeng F, Huang F, Guo J, Hu X, Liu C, Wang H. Emerging methods to generate artificial germ cells from stem cells. Biol Reprod 2015; 92:89. [PMID: 25715792 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.124800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cells are responsible for the transmission of genetic and epigenetic information across generations. At present, the number of infertile couples is increasing worldwide; these infertility problems can be traced to environmental pollutions, infectious diseases, cancer, psychological or work-related stress, and other factors, such as lifestyle and genetics. Notably, lack of germ cells and germ cell loss present real obstacles in infertility treatment. Recent research aimed at producing gametes through artificial germ cell generation from stem cells may offer great hope for affected couples to treat infertility in the future. Therefore, this rapidly emerging area of artificial germ cell generation from nongermline cells has gained considerable attention from basic and clinical research in the fields of stem cell biology, developmental biology, and reproductive biology. Here, we review the state of the art in artificial germ cell generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanhui Zeng
- The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, China
| | - Fajun Huang
- School of Medical Science, Hubei University for Nationalities, Enshi, China
| | - Jingjing Guo
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xingchang Hu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Changbai Liu
- The Institute of Molecular Biology, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Hu Wang
- Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
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Duggal G, Heindryckx B, Warrier S, Taelman J, Van der Jeught M, Deforce D, Chuva de Sousa Lopes S, De Sutter P. Exogenous supplementation of Activin A enhances germ cell differentiation of human embryonic stem cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2015; 21:410-23. [PMID: 25634576 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) derived in the presence of Activin A (ActA) demonstrate an increased differentiation propensity toward the germ cell lineage. In addition, mouse epiblast stem cells and mouse epiblast-like cells are poised toward germ cell differentiation and are derived in the presence of ActA. We therefore investigated whether supplementation with ActA enhances in vitro hESC differentiation toward germ cell lineage. ActA up-regulated early primordial germ cell (PGC) genes STELLA/DPPA3 (developmental pluripotency associated 3) and tyrosine kinase receptor cKIT in both ActA-derived and standard-derived hESCs indicating its role in priming hESCs toward the PGC lineage. Indeed, ActA plus bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4) strongly increased germ cell differentiation potential of hESCs based on the high expression of late PGC markers DAZL (deleted in azoospermia-like) and VASA/DDX4 (DEAD-box polypeptide 4) at mRNA and protein level. Hence, the combination of ActA with BMP4 provides an additional boost for hESCs to develop into postmigratory germ cells. Together with increased VASA expression in the presence of ActA and BMP4, we also observed up-regulation of endoderm-specific genes GATA4 (GATA binding protein 4) and GATA6. Finally, we were able to further mature these in vitro-derived PGC-like cells (PGCLCs) by culturing them in in vitro maturation (IVM) medium, resulting in the formation of germ cell-like clusters and induction of meiotic gene expression. In conclusion, we demonstrate for the first time a synergism between ActA and BMP4 in facilitating germ cell-directed differentiation of hESCs, which is enhanced by extended culture in IVM medium, as shown by cytoplasmic VASA-expressing PGCLCs. We propose a novel relationship between the endoderm and germ cell lineage during hESC differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galbha Duggal
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sharat Warrier
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jasin Taelman
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Margot Van der Jeught
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dieter Deforce
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Harelbekestraat 72, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Susana Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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50
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Hendriks S, Dancet EA, van Pelt AM, Hamer G, Repping S. Artificial gametes: a systematic review of biological progress towards clinical application. Hum Reprod Update 2015; 21:285-96. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2013] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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