1
|
Yi H, Chen T, He G, Liu L, Zhao J, Guo K, Cao Y, Sun P, Zhou X, Zhang B, Li C, Wang H. Retinoic acid mitigates the NSC319726-induced spermatogenesis dysfunction through cuproptosis-independent mechanisms. Cell Biol Toxicol 2024; 40:26. [PMID: 38691186 PMCID: PMC11062974 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-024-09857-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Copper ionophore NSC319726 has attracted researchers' attention in treating diseases, particularly cancers. However, its potential effects on male reproduction during medication are unclear. This study aimed to determine whether NSC319726 exposure affected the male reproductive system. The reproductive toxicity of NSC319726 was evaluated in male mice following a continuous exposure period of 5 weeks. The result showed that NSC319726 exposure caused testis index reduction, spermatogenesis dysfunction, and architectural damage in the testis and epididymis. The exposure interfered with spermatogonia proliferation, meiosis initiation, sperm count, and sperm morphology. The exposure also disturbed androgen synthesis and blood testis barrier integrity. NSC319726 treatment could elevate the copper ions in the testis to induce cuproptosis in the testis. Copper chelator rescued the elevated copper ions in the testis and partly restored the spermatogenesis dysfunction caused by NSC319726. NSC319726 treatment also decreased the level of retinol dehydrogenase 10 (RDH10), thereby inhibiting the conversion of retinol to retinoic acid, causing the inability to initiate meiosis. Retinoic acid treatment could rescue the meiotic initiation and spermatogenesis while not affecting the intracellular copper ion levels. The study provided an insight into the bio-safety of NSC319726. Retinoic acid could be a potential therapy for spermatogenesis impairment in patients undergoing treatment with NSC319726.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haisheng Yi
- Department of Andrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Tong Chen
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Guitian He
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Lingyun Liu
- Department of Andrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Jiantao Zhao
- Department of Andrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Kaimin Guo
- Department of Andrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Yin Cao
- Department of Andrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Penghao Sun
- Department of Andrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Xu Zhou
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
| | - Boqi Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
| | - Chunjin Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
| | - Hongliang Wang
- Department of Andrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xiong YW, Zhu HL, Zhang J, Geng H, Tan LL, Zheng XM, Li H, Fan LL, Wang XR, Zhang XD, Wang KW, Chang W, Zhang YF, Yuan Z, Duan ZL, Cao YX, He XJ, Xu DX, Wang H. Multigenerational paternal obesity enhances the susceptibility to male subfertility in offspring via Wt1 N6-methyladenosine modification. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1353. [PMID: 38355624 PMCID: PMC10866985 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45675-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
There is strong evidence that obesity is a risk factor for poor semen quality. However, the effects of multigenerational paternal obesity on the susceptibility to cadmium (a reproductive toxicant)-induced spermatogenesis disorders in offspring remain unknown. Here, we show that, in mice, spermatogenesis and retinoic acid levels become progressively lower as the number of generations exposed to a high-fat diet increase. Furthermore, exposing several generations of mice to a high fat diet results in a decrease in the expression of Wt1, a transcription factor upstream of the enzymes that synthesize retinoic acid. These effects can be rescued by injecting adeno-associated virus 9-Wt1 into the mouse testes of the offspring. Additionally, multigenerational paternal high-fat diet progressively increases METTL3 and Wt1 N6-methyladenosine levels in the testes of offspring mice. Mechanistically, treating the fathers with STM2457, a METTL3 inhibitor, restores obesity-reduced sperm count, and decreases Wt1 N6-methyladenosine level in the mouse testes of the offspring. A case-controlled study shows that human donors who are overweight or obese exhibit elevated N6-methyladenosine levels in sperm and decreased sperm concentration. Collectively, these results indicate that multigenerational paternal obesity enhances the susceptibility of the offspring to spermatogenesis disorders by increasing METTL3-mediated Wt1 N6-methyladenosine modification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Wei Xiong
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Hua-Long Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Hao Geng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Lu-Lu Tan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Xin-Mei Zheng
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Long-Long Fan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Xin-Run Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Xu-Dong Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Kai-Wen Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Chang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Yu-Feng Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Zhi Yuan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Zong-Liu Duan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yun-Xia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Jin He
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China.
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - De-Xiang Xu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China.
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China.
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Khalil A, Daradkeh M, Alrabie A, Abo Siam H. Assessment of the In Vivo Reprotoxicity of Isotretinoin in Sprague-Dawley Male Rat. Curr Drug Discov Technol 2024; 21:e160823219865. [PMID: 37587808 DOI: 10.2174/1570163820666230816155855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Isotretinoin (ISO) belongs to a family of drugs called retinoids. It is the most effective drug prescribed by dermatologists for the treatment of the inflammatory disease, acne vulgaris. A significant barrier to the use of ISO has worries regarding its adverse effect profile. Despite the well-recognized reproductive toxicity and teratogenicity in females, there is no warning related to the use by male patients in the medication prospectus. Current data on the effects on human male fertility is contradictory and inconclusive. OBJECTIVES This study was undertaken to investigate the potential effects of ISO oral doses in the Sprague-Dawley male rat germ cells using the sperm morphology assay. Also, the serum levels of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone were measured. METHODS The rat groups were given varying ISO doses via gastric gavage for seven consecutive days. The epididymis sperm specimens were microscopically examined for the following reproductive toxicity parameters: sperm concentration, examined viability, motility, and morphology. The serum FSH, LH, and testosterone levels were measured by using the corresponding enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. The data were analyzed statistically by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by the Tukey test at P ≤ 0.05 significance level. RESULTS The results indicated that the drug did not significantly increase the sex hormone levels but notably affected both the sperm quantity and quality. CONCLUSION These observations suggest that ISO was reprotoxic, and future therapies should be further reassessed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Khalil
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mai Daradkeh
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Amneh Alrabie
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Hasan Abo Siam
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mazini F, Abdollahifar MA, Niknejad H, Manzari-Tavakoli A, Zhaleh M, Asadi-Golshan R, Ghanbari A. Retinoic acid loaded with chitosan nanoparticles improves spermatogenesis in scrotal hyperthermia in mice. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2023; 50:230-243. [PMID: 37995751 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2023.06149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE High temperatures can trigger cellular oxidative stress and disrupt spermatogenesis, potentially leading to male infertility. We investigated the effects of retinoic acid (RA), chitosan nanoparticles (CHNPs), and retinoic acid loaded with chitosan nanoparticles (RACHNPs) on spermatogenesis in mice induced by scrotal hyperthermia (Hyp). METHODS Thirty mice (weighing 25 to 30 g) were divided into five experimental groups of six mice each. The groups were as follows: control, Hyp induced by a water bath (43 °C for 30 minutes/day for 5 weeks), Hyp+RA (2 mg/kg/day), Hyp+CHNPs (2 mg/kg/72 hours), and Hyp+RACHNPs (4 mg/kg/72 hours). The mice were treated for 35 days. After the experimental treatments, the animals were euthanized. Sperm samples were collected for analysis of sperm parameters, and blood serum was isolated for testosterone measurement. Testis samples were also collected for histopathology assessment, reactive oxygen species (ROS) evaluation, and RNA extraction, which was done to compare the expression levels of the bax, bcl2, p53, Fas, and FasL genes among groups. Additionally, immunohistochemical staining was performed. RESULTS Treatment with RACHNPs significantly increased stereological parameters such as testicular volume, seminiferous tubule length, and testicular cell count. Additionally, it increased testosterone concentration and improved sperm parameters. We observed significant decreases in ROS production and caspase-3 immunostaining in the RACHNP group. Moreover, the expression levels of bax, p53, Fas, and FasL significantly decreased in the groups treated with RACHNPs and RA. CONCLUSION RACHNPs can be considered a potent antioxidative and antiapoptotic agent for therapeutic strategies in reproductive and regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Mazini
- Department of Anatomical Science, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Amin Abdollahifar
- Urogenital Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hassan Niknejad
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Asma Manzari-Tavakoli
- ATMP Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Zhaleh
- Department of Anatomical Science, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Reza Asadi-Golshan
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Ghanbari
- Department of Anatomical Science, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhang Q, Zhang W, Wu X, Ke H, Qin Y, Zhao S, Guo T. Homozygous missense variant in MEIOSIN causes premature ovarian insufficiency. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:ii47-ii56. [PMID: 37982418 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are variants of genes involved in meiosis initiation responsible for premature ovarian insufficiency (POI)? SUMMARY ANSWER A MEIOSIN variant participates in the pathogenesis of human POI by impairing meiosis due to insufficient transcriptional activation of essential meiotic genes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Meiosis is the key event for the establishment of the ovarian reserve, and several gene defects impairing meiotic homologous recombination have been found to contribute to the pathogenesis of POI. Although STRA8 and MEIOISN variants have been found to associate with POI in a recent study, the condition of other meiosis initiation genes is unknown and direct evidence of variants participating in the pathogenesis of POI is still lacking. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a retrospective genetic study. An in-house whole exome sequencing (WES) database of 1030 idiopathic POI patients was screened for variations of meiosis initiation genes. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Homozygous or compound heterozygous variations of genes involved in meiosis initiation were screened in the in-house WES database. The pathogenicity of the variation was verified by in vitro experiments, including protein structure prediction and dual-luciferase reporter assay. The effect of the variant on ovarian function and meiosis was demonstrated through histological analyses in a point mutation mouse model. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE One homozygous variant in MEIOSIN (c.1735C>T, p.R579W) and one in STRA8 (c.258 + 1G>A), which initiates meiosis via the retinoic acid-dependent pathway, were identified in a patient with idiopathic POI respectively. The STRA8 variation has been reported in the recently published work. For the MEIOSIN variation, the dual-luciferase reporter assay revealed that the variant adversely affected the transcriptional function of MEIOSIN in upregulating meiotic genes. Furthermore, knock-in mice with the homologous mutation confirmed that the variation impacted the meiotic prophase I program and accelerated oocyte depletion. Moreover, the variant p.R579W localizing in the high-mobility group (HMG) box domain disrupted the nuclear localization of the MEIOSIN protein but was dispensable for the cell-cycle switch of oocytes, suggesting a unique role of the MEIOSIN HMG box domain in meiosis initiation. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Further studies are needed to explore the role of other meiosis initiation genes in the pathogenesis of POI. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The MEIOSIN variant was verified to cause POI by impaired transcriptional regulation of meiotic genes and was inherited by a recessive mode. The function of HMG box domain in MEIOSIN protein was also expanded by this study. Although causative variations in meiotic initiation genes are rare in POI, our study confirmed the pathogenicity of a MEIOSIN variant and elucidated another mechanism of human infertility. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Key Research & Developmental Program of China (2022YFC2703800, 2022YFC2703000), National Natural Science Foundation for Distinguished Young Scholars (82125014), National Natural Science Foundation of China (32070847, 32170867, 82071609), Basic Science Center Program of NSFC (31988101), Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province for Grand Basic Projects (ZR2021ZD33), Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province for Excellent Young Scholars (ZR2022YQ69), Taishan Scholars Program for Young Experts of Shandong Province (tsqn202211371), and Qilu Young Scholars Program of Shandong University. The authors declare no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wenzhe Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xinyi Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Hanni Ke
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shidou Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ting Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Louwagie EJ, Quinn GFL, Pond KL, Hansen KA. Male contraception: narrative review of ongoing research. Basic Clin Androl 2023; 33:30. [PMID: 37940863 PMCID: PMC10634021 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-023-00204-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the release of the combined oral contraceptive pill in 1960, women have shouldered the burden of contraception and family planning. Over 60 years later, this is still the case as the only practical, effective contraceptive options available to men are condoms and vasectomy. However, there are now a variety of promising hormonal and non-hormonal male contraceptive options being studied. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide clinicians and laypeople with focused, up-to-date descriptions of novel strategies and targets for male contraception. We include a cautiously optimistic discussion of benefits and potential drawbacks, highlighting several methods in preclinical and clinical stages of development. RESULTS As of June 2023, two hormonal male contraceptive methods are undergoing phase II clinical trials for safety and efficacy. A large-scale, international phase IIb trial investigating efficacy of transdermal segesterone acetate (Nestorone) plus testosterone gel has enrolled over 460 couples with completion estimated for late 2024. A second hormonal method, dimethandrolone undecanoate, is in two clinical trials focusing on safety, pharmacodynamics, suppression of spermatogenesis and hormones; the first of these two is estimated for completion in December 2024. There are also several non-hormonal methods with strong potential in preclinical stages of development. CONCLUSIONS There exist several hurdles to novel male contraception. Therapeutic development takes decades of time, meticulous work, and financial investment, but with so many strong candidates it is our hope that there will soon be several safe, effective, and reversible contraceptive options available to male patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eli J Louwagie
- University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, 1400 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA.
| | - Garrett F L Quinn
- University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, 1400 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA
| | - Kristi L Pond
- University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, 1400 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA
| | - Keith A Hansen
- Chair and Professor, Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine; Reproductive Endocrinologist, Sanford Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, 1500 W 22nd St Suite 102, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Faix A, Methorst C, Hupertan V, Huyghe E. [Male contraception]. Prog Urol 2023; 33:718-732. [PMID: 38012914 DOI: 10.1016/j.purol.2023.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Contraception is a major global health issue, which is still dominated by female contraception. Developments in male contraception could help redistribute the contraceptive burden. METHODS A literature search was carried out to review the existing options and the criteria for optimal contraception, to establish the principles of a male pre-contraception consultation, and to review the various research avenues with their advantages and disadvantages. RESULTS The new male contraception options are detailed, whether hormonal (androgen therapy, combination of progestins and testosterone) or non-hormonal, particularly thermal, with current results and avenues for improvement. Condom use and vasectomy remain the only 2 validated options. The recent development of minimally invasive vasectomy without the need for a scalpel and of occlusion techniques has simplified the procedure, minimised the risk of complications (pain, haematomas, post-vasectomy pain syndrome) and improved efficacy. The issues of regret and the possibility of repermeabilisation are also raised. CONCLUSION The question of male contraception will become increasingly important in consultations with urologists. The urologist will have to inform the patient, as required by law, before the vasectomy is performed, and provide the best possible advice on the technique, which will often be minimally invasive without the need for a scalpel. New reversible options should also broaden the range of options available on a routine basis, with a view to gradually moving towards contraceptive equity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Faix
- Clinique Saint-Roch, 560, avenue du colonel Pavelet dit Villars, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - C Methorst
- Service de médecine de la reproduction, hôpital des 4 villes, Saint-Cloud, France
| | - V Hupertan
- « Urologie Paris Opéra », cabinet médical, 82, boulevard de Courcelles, 75017 Paris, France
| | - E Huyghe
- Département d'urologie, CHU de Toulouse, hôpital de Rangueil, Toulouse, France; Service de médecine de la reproduction, CHU de Toulouse, hôpital Paule-de-Viguier, Toulouse, France; Inserm 1203, UMR DEFE, université de Toulouse, université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Xiong YW, Li DX, Ling ZJ, Tan LL, Zhang YF, Zhang J, Li H, Chang W, Zhu HL, Zhang J, Gao L, Xu DX, Yang L, Wang H. Loss of Atg5 in Sertoli cells enhances the susceptibility of cadmium-impaired testicular spermatogenesis in mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 179:113967. [PMID: 37506864 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd), one of the most common contaminants in diet and drinking water, impairs testicular germ cell development and spermatogenesis. Autophagy is essential for maintaining Sertoli cell function and Sertoli-germ cell communication. However, the role of Sertoli cell autophagy in Cd-caused spermatogenesis disorder remains unclear. Here, the mice of autophagy-related gene 5 (Atg5) knockouts in Sertoli cells were used to investigate the effect of autophagy deficiency on Cd-impaired spermatogenesis and its underlying mechanisms. Results showed that Sertoli cell-specific knockout of Atg5 exacerbated Cd-reduced sperm count and MVH (a specific marker for testicular germ cells) level in mice. Additionally, Sertoli cell Atg5 deficiency reduced the number of spermatocytes and decreased the level of meiosis-related proteins (SYCP3 and STRA8) in Cd-treated mouse testes. Loss of Atg5 in Sertoli cell exacerbated Cd-reduced the level of retinoic acid (RA) and retinal dehydrogenase (ALDH1A1 and ALDH1A) in mouse testes. Meanwhile, we found that the level of transcription factor WT1 was significantly downregulated in Atg5-/- plus Cd-treated testes. Further experiments showed that Wt1 overexpression restored Cd-decreased the levels of ALDH1A1 in Sertoli cells. Collectively, the above data suggest that knockout of Atg5 in Sertoli cell enhances the susceptibility of Cd-impaired testicular spermatogenesis. These findings provide new insights into autophagy of Sertoli cell preventing environmental toxicants-impaired testicular spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Wei Xiong
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Dai-Xin Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Zheng-Jia Ling
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, 214002, Wuxi, China
| | - Lu-Lu Tan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Yu-Feng Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Wei Chang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hua-Long Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Lan Gao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - De-Xiang Xu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, China
| | - Lan Yang
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, 214002, Wuxi, China.
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zheng N, Zhang W, Zhang X, Li B, Wu Z, Weng Y, Wang W, Miao J, Yang J, Zhang M, Xia W. RA-RAR signaling promotes mouse vaginal opening through increasing β-catenin expression and vaginal epithelial cell apoptosis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:36. [PMID: 37041518 PMCID: PMC10088237 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01084-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinoic acid (RA) plays important role in the maintenance and differentiation of the Müllerian ducts during the embryonic stage via RA receptors (RARs). However, the function and mechanism of RA-RAR signaling in the vaginal opening are unknown. METHOD We used the Rarα knockout mouse model and the wild-type ovariectomized mouse models with subcutaneous injection of RA (2.5 mg/kg) or E2 (0.1 µg/kg) to study the role and mechanism of RA-RAR signaling on the vaginal opening. The effects of Rarα deletion on Ctnnb1 mRNA levels and cell apoptosis in the vaginas were analyzed by real-time PCR and immunofluorescence, respectively. The effects of RA on the expression of β-catenin and apoptosis in the vaginas were analyzed by real-time PCR and western blotting. The effects of E2 on RA signaling molecules were analyzed by real-time PCR and western blotting. RESULTS RA signaling molecules were expressed in vaginal epithelial cells, and the mRNA and/or protein levels of RALDH2, RALDH3, RARα and RARγ reached a peak at the time of vaginal opening. The deletion of Rarα resulted in 25.0% of females infertility due to vaginal closure, in which the mRNA (Ctnnb1, Bak and Bax) and protein (Cleaved Caspase-3) levels were significantly decreased, and Bcl2 mRNA levels were significantly increased in the vaginas. The percentage of vaginal epithelium with TUNEL- and Cleaved Caspase-3-positive signals were also significantly decreased in Rarα-/- females with vaginal closure. Furthermore, RA supplementation of ovariectomized wild-type (WT) females significantly increased the expression of β-catenin, active β-catenin, BAK and BAX, and significantly decreased BCL2 expression in the vaginas. Thus, the deletion of Rarα prevents vaginal opening by reducing the vaginal β-catenin expression and epithelial cell apoptosis. The deletion of Rarα also resulted in significant decreases in serum estradiol (E2) and vagina Raldh2/3 mRNA levels. E2 supplementation of ovariectomized WT females significantly increased the expression of RA signaling molecules in the vaginas, suggesting that the up-regulation of RA signaling molecules in the vaginas is dependent on E2 stimulation. CONCLUSION Taken together, we propose that RA-RAR signaling in the vaginas promotes vaginal opening through increasing β-catenin expression and vaginal epithelial cell apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nana Zheng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Centre, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510180, China
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Wenbo Zhang
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xiaodan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Biao Li
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zhanying Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yashuang Weng
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Weiyong Wang
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jingjing Miao
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jing Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Meijia Zhang
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Wei Xia
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Centre, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510180, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Manna PR, Reddy AP, Pradeepkiran JA, Kshirsagar S, Reddy PH. Regulation of retinoid mediated StAR transcription and steroidogenesis in hippocampal neuronal cells: Implications for StAR in protecting Alzheimer's disease. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166596. [PMID: 36356843 PMCID: PMC9772146 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Retinoids (vitamin A and its derivatives) play pivotal roles in diverse processes, ranging from homeostasis to neurodegeneration, which are also influenced by steroid hormones. The rate-limiting step in steroid biosynthesis is mediated by the steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein. In the present study, we demonstrate that retinoids enhanced StAR expression and pregnenolone biosynthesis, and these parameters were markedly augmented by activation of the PKA pathway in mouse hippocampal neuronal HT22 cells. Deletion and mutational analyses of the 5'-flanking regions of the StAR gene revealed the importance of a retinoic acid receptor (RAR)/retinoid X receptor (RXR)-liver X receptor (LXR) heterodimeric motif at -200/-185 bp region in retinoid responsiveness. The RAR/RXR-LXR sequence motif can bind RARα and RXRα, and retinoid regulated transcription of the StAR gene was found to be influenced by the LXR pathway, representing signaling cross-talk in hippocampal neurosteroid biosynthesis. Steroidogenesis decreases during senescence due to declines in the central nervous system and the endocrine system, and results in hormone deficiencies, inferring the need for hormonal balance for healthy aging. Loss of neuronal cells, involving accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) and/or phosphorylated Tau within the brain, is the pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). HT22 cells overexpressing either mutant APP (mAPP) or mutant Tau (mTau), conditions mimetic to AD, enhanced toxicities, and resulted in attenuation of both basal and retinoid-responsive StAR and pregnenolone levels. Co-expression of StAR with either mAPP or mTau diminished cytotoxicity, and concomitantly elevated neurosteroid biosynthesis, pointing to a protective role of StAR in AD. These findings provide insights into the molecular events by which retinoid signaling upregulates StAR and steroid levels in hippocampal neuronal cells, and StAR, by rescuing mAPP and/or mTau-induced toxicities, modulates neurosteroidogenesis and restores hormonal balance, which may have important implications in protecting AD and age-related complications and diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pulak R Manna
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Arubala P Reddy
- Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, 1301 Akron Ave, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | | | - Sudhir Kshirsagar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - P Hemachandra Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, 1301 Akron Ave, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA; Neurology, Departments of School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Public Health Department of Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, School Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Laronda MM. Factors within the Developing Embryo and Ovarian Microenvironment That Influence Primordial Germ Cell Fate. Sex Dev 2023; 17:134-144. [PMID: 36646055 PMCID: PMC10349905 DOI: 10.1159/000528209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primordial germ cell (PGC) fate is dictated by the designation, taxis, and influence of the surrounding embryonic somatic cells. Whereas gonadal sex determination results from a balance of factors within the tissue microenvironment. SUMMARY Our understanding of mammalian ovary development is formed in large part from developmental time courses established using murine models. Genomic tools where genes implicated in the PGC designation or gonadal sex determination have been modulated through complete or conditional knockouts in vivo, and studies in in situ models with inhibitors or cultures that alter the native gonadal environment have pieced together the interplay of pioneering transcription factors, co-regulators and chromosomes critical for the progression of PGCs to oocytes. Tools such as pluripotent stem cell derivation, genomic modifications, and aggregate differentiation cultures have yielded some insight into the human condition. Additional understanding of sex determination, both gonadal and anatomical, may be inferred from phenotypes that arise from de novo or inherited gene variants in humans who have differences in sex development. KEY MESSAGES This review highlights major factors critical for PGC specification and migration, and in ovarian gonad specification by reviewing seminal murine models. These pathways are compared to what is known about the human condition from expression profiles of fetal gonadal tissue, use of human pluripotent stem cells, or disorders resulting from disease variants. Many of these pathways are challenging to decipher in human tissues. However, the impact of new single-cell technologies and whole-genome sequencing to reveal disease variants of idiopathic reproductive tract phenotypes will help elucidate the mechanisms involved in human ovary development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica M. Laronda
- Department of Endocrinology and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, (IL,) USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, (IL,) USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Service CA, Puri D, Hsieh TC, Patel DP. Emerging concepts in male contraception: a narrative review of novel, hormonal and non-hormonal options. Ther Adv Reprod Health 2023; 17:26334941221138323. [PMID: 36909934 PMCID: PMC9996746 DOI: 10.1177/26334941221138323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Access to reliable contraception is a pillar of modern society. The burden of unintended pregnancy has fallen disproportionately on the mother throughout human history; however, recent legal developments surrounding abortion have sparked a renewed interest in male factor contraceptives beyond surgical sterilization and condoms. Modern efforts to develop reversible male birth control date back nearly a century and initially focused on altering the hypothalamic-pituitary-testes axis. These hormonal contraceptives faced multiple barriers, including systemic side effects, challenging dosing regimens, unfavorable routes of delivery, and the public stigma surrounding steroid use. Novel hormonal agents are seeking to overcome these barriers by limiting the side effects and simplifying use. Non-hormonal contraceptives are agents that target various stages of spermatogenesis; such as inhibitors of retinoic acid, Sertoli cell-germ cell interactions, sperm ion channels, and other small molecular targets. The identification of reproductive tract-specific genes associated with male infertility has led to more targeted drug development, made possible by advances in CRISPR and proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs). Despite multiple human trials, no male birth control agents have garnered regulatory approval in the United States or abroad. This narrative review examines current and emerging male contraceptives, including hormonal and non-hormonal agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Austin Service
- Department of Urology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Dhruv Puri
- Department of Urology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Tung-Chin Hsieh
- Department of Urology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Darshan P Patel
- Department of Urology, University of California San Diego, 9333 Genesee Avenue, Suite 320, La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bahmanpour S, Moasses Z, Zarei-Fard N. Comparative effects of retinoic acid, granulosa cells conditioned medium or forskolin in combination with granulosa cell co-culturing on mouse germ cell differentiation. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:631-640. [PMID: 36371553 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07920-1] [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: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Devising of an appropriate in vitro culture method for germ cells differentiation in the presence of soluble factors has attracted considerable attention, which results will provide new insight into reproductive biology. In this study, we compared the effects of forskolin, retinoic acid (RA) or granulosa cell-conditioned medium in the presence or absence of granulosa cell co-culturing on germ cell differentiation from embryonic stem cells (ESCs). METHODS AND RESULTS Embryonic stem cells were differentiated using embryoid bodies (EBs) for 5 days, and then EB-derived cells were co-cultured with or without adult mouse granulosa cells using monolayer protocol and treated with 50 µM forskolin, 1 µM RA and 50% granulosa cell-conditioned medium for 4 days. Granulosa cell-conditioned medium significantly increased the levels of Scp3, Rec8, Mvh and Gdf9 expression in the granulosa cell co-culture method compared to untreated cells. A significant elevation of Stra8, Rec8 and Mvh was observed after treatment with RA in the absence of granulosa cells and there was no significant increase in the levels of expression of germ cell-specific genes after treatment with forskolin compared to control. Furthermore, forskolin and RA significantly increased viability and proliferation of germ-like cells, compared with granulosa cell-conditioned medium. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed that granulosa cell-conditioned medium and RA effectively can induce germ cell differentiation from ESCs, however combined application of granulosa cell-conditioned medium and co-culturing with granulosa cells had synergic effect on germ cell development in vitro as optimized protocol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soghra Bahmanpour
- Laboratory for stem cell research, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zia Moasses
- Laboratory for stem cell research, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nehleh Zarei-Fard
- Laboratory for stem cell research, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. .,Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cai H, Cao X, Qin D, Liu Y, Liu Y, Hua J, Peng S. Gut microbiota supports male reproduction via nutrition, immunity, and signaling. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:977574. [PMID: 36060736 PMCID: PMC9434149 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.977574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota (GM) is a major component of the gastrointestinal tract. Growing evidence suggests that it has various effects on many distal organs including the male reproductive system in mammals. GM and testis form the gut-testis axis involving the production of key molecules through microbial metabolism or de novo synthesis. These molecules have nutrition, immunity, and hormone-related functions and promote the male reproductive system via the circulatory system. GM helps maintain the integral structure of testes and regulates testicular immunity to protect the spermatogenic environment. Factors damaging GM negatively impact male reproductive function, however, the related mechanism is unknown. Also, the correlation between GM and testis remains to be yet investigated. This review discusses the complex influence of GM on the male reproductive system highlighting the impact on male fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Cai
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xuanhong Cao
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dezhe Qin
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular and Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yundie Liu
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jinlian Hua
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sha Peng
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
- *Correspondence: Sha Peng,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lundgaard Riis M, Jørgensen A. Deciphering Sex-Specific Differentiation of Human Fetal Gonads: Insight From Experimental Models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:902082. [PMID: 35721511 PMCID: PMC9201387 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.902082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex-specific gonadal differentiation is initiated by the expression of SRY in male foetuses. This promotes a signalling pathway directing testicular development, while in female foetuses the absence of SRY and expression of pro-ovarian factors promote ovarian development. Importantly, in addition to the initiation of a sex-specific signalling cascade the opposite pathway is simultaneously inhibited. The somatic cell populations within the gonads dictates this differentiation as well as the development of secondary sex characteristics via secretion of endocrine factors and steroid hormones. Opposing pathways SOX9/FGF9 (testis) and WNT4/RSPO1 (ovary) controls the development and differentiation of the bipotential mouse gonad and even though sex-specific gonadal differentiation is largely considered to be conserved between mice and humans, recent studies have identified several differences. Hence, the signalling pathways promoting early mouse gonad differentiation cannot be directly transferred to human development thus highlighting the importance of also examining this signalling in human fetal gonads. This review focus on the current understanding of regulatory mechanisms governing human gonadal sex differentiation by combining knowledge of these processes from studies in mice, information from patients with differences of sex development and insight from manipulation of selected signalling pathways in ex vivo culture models of human fetal gonads.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malene Lundgaard Riis
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Research and Research Training Centre in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Research and Research Training Centre in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Anne Jørgensen,
| |
Collapse
|