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Liu S, Wu J, Zhao X, Yu M, Taniguchi M, Bao H, Kang K. Recent Progress of Induced Spermatogenesis In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8524. [PMID: 39126092 PMCID: PMC11313507 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158524] [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: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Sperm, a crucial gamete for reproduction in sexual reproduction, is generated through the proliferation, differentiation, and morphological transformations of spermatogonial stem cells within the specialized microenvironment of the testes. Replicating this environment artificially presents challenges. However, interdisciplinary advancements in physics, materials science, and cell engineering have facilitated the utilization of innovative materials, technologies, and structures for inducing in vitro sperm production. This article offers a comprehensive overview of research progress on inducing in vitro sperm production by categorizing techniques into two major systems based on matrix-based and non-matrix-based approaches, respectively. Detailed discussions are provided for both types of technology systems through comparisons of their similarities and differences, as well as research advancements. The aim is to provide researchers in this field with a comprehensive panoramic view while presenting our own perspectives and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Liu
- College of Coastal Agriculture Science, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (S.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Jiang Wu
- College of Coastal Agriculture Science, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (S.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Xin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Mechanical Behavior of Materials, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
| | - Meng Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Mechanical Behavior of Materials, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
| | - Masayasu Taniguchi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi 753-0841, Japan
| | - Huimingda Bao
- College of Coastal Agriculture Science, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (S.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Kai Kang
- College of Coastal Agriculture Science, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (S.L.); (J.W.)
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Qian GQ, Wang XC, Zhang X, Shen B, Liu Q. Pyruvate kinase M in germ cells is essential for sperm motility and male fertility but not spermatogenesis. Asian J Androl 2024; 26:212-219. [PMID: 37902871 PMCID: PMC10919421 DOI: 10.4103/aja202350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Male germ cells employ specific metabolic pathways throughout their developmental stages. In a previous study, we discovered heightened expression of pyruvate kinase M (PKM), a pivotal glycolytic enzyme, in spermatogonia and spermatids. To gain deeper insights into PKM's roles in spermatogenesis, sperm function, and male fertility, we engineered a conditional-knockout mouse model ( Pkm -vKO mice) to selectively disrupt the Pkm gene within germ cells. Despite maintaining regular testicular histology and sperm morphology, the male Pkm -vKO mice were infertility, characterized by significant impairments in sperm motility and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generation. In addition, Pkm -null spermatozoa exhibited similar deficits in protein tyrosine phosphorylation linked to capacitation, as well as compromised performance in in vitro fertilization experiments. To conclude, PKM's presence is not obligatory for the entirety of spermatogenesis in male germ cells; however, it emerges as a critical factor influencing sperm motility and overall male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gao-Qing Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Xiao-Chen Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histoembryology, Genetics and Developmental Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Bin Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histoembryology, Genetics and Developmental Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
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Hingu J, Galdon G, Deebel NA, Sadri-Ardekani H. Isolation and In Vitro Propagation of Human Spermatogonial Stem Cells (SSCs). Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2770:27-36. [PMID: 38351444 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3698-5_3] [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] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Preservation of human spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) may be suitable for young male patients at risk of male infertility due to various causes, such as gonadotoxic treatment or genetic diseases. With optimal cryopreservation, cell viability can be retained to reestablish spermatogenesis in the future through autologous transplantation or in vitro differentiation of SSCs. This protocol outlines techniques to optimize the SSCs isolation and in vitro culture. With particular emphasis on the microscopic characteristics encountered, this protocol outlines a broader approach to processing tissues with varying morphologies among patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janmejay Hingu
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Guillermo Galdon
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Nicholas A Deebel
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Hooman Sadri-Ardekani
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
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Cheng H, Shang D, Zhou R. Germline stem cells in human. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:345. [PMID: 36184610 PMCID: PMC9527259 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01197-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The germline cells are essential for the propagation of human beings, thus essential for the survival of mankind. The germline stem cells, as a unique cell type, generate various states of germ stem cells and then differentiate into specialized cells, spermatozoa and ova, for producing offspring, while self-renew to generate more stem cells. Abnormal development of germline stem cells often causes severe diseases in humans, including infertility and cancer. Primordial germ cells (PGCs) first emerge during early embryonic development, migrate into the gentile ridge, and then join in the formation of gonads. In males, they differentiate into spermatogonial stem cells, which give rise to spermatozoa via meiosis from the onset of puberty, while in females, the female germline stem cells (FGSCs) retain stemness in the ovary and initiate meiosis to generate oocytes. Primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs) can be induced in vitro from embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells. In this review, we focus on current advances in these embryonic and adult germline stem cells, and the induced PGCLCs in humans, provide an overview of molecular mechanisms underlying the development and differentiation of the germline stem cells and outline their physiological functions, pathological implications, and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanhua Cheng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, China.
| | - Dantong Shang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, China
| | - Rongjia Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, China.
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Establishment of a Spermatogonial Stem Cell Line with Potential of Meiosis in a Hermaphroditic Fish, Epinephelus coioides. Cells 2022; 11:cells11182868. [PMID: 36139441 PMCID: PMC9496998 DOI: 10.3390/cells11182868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are unique adult stem cells capable of self-renewal and differentiation into sperm. Grouper is a protogynous hermaphroditic fish farmed widely in the tropical and subtropical seas. In this study, we established an SSC line derived from adult testis of orange-spotted grouper, Epinephelus coioides. In the presence of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), the cells could be maintained with proliferation and self-renewal over 20 months and 120 passages under in vitro culture conditions. The cells exhibited strong alkaline phosphatase activity and the characteristics of SSCs with the expression of germ cell markers, including Vasa, Dazl, and Plzf, as well as the stem cell markers Nanog, Oct4, and Ssea1. Furthermore, the cultured cells could be induced by 11-ketotestosterone treatment to highly express the meiotic markers Rec8, Sycp3, and Dmc1, and produce some spherical cells, and even sperm-like cells with a tail. The findings of this study suggested that the cultured grouper SSC line would serve as an excellent tool to study the molecular mechanisms behind SSCs self-renewal and differentiation, meiosis during spermatogenesis, and sex reversal in hermaphroditic vertebrates. Moreover, this SSC line has great application value in grouper fish aquaculture, such as germ cell transplantation, genetic manipulation, and disease research.
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Petrusová J, Manning J, Kubovčiak J, Kolář M, Filipp D. Two complementary approaches for efficient isolation of Sertoli cells for transcriptomic analysis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:972017. [PMID: 36158203 PMCID: PMC9495933 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.972017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs) are the only somatic cells that reside in seminiferous tubules of testis. They directly interact with and support the development of germ cells, thus have an indispensable role in the process of spermatogenesis. SCs first appear in a proliferative state and then, with the initiation of the first wave of spermatogenesis, progress to a mature “nurturing” state which supports lifelong continuous sperm production. During this development, the SC transcriptome must adapt rapidly as obstacles in SC maturation often result in deficiencies in male fertility. Due to its importance in spermatogenesis, a reliable, rapid, and precise method for the isolation of high purity, viable and unadulterated SC has been largely missing. We have developed an improved method for the preparation of a testicular single cell suspension comprised of two alternative protocols to separate SCs from the rest of the testicular cells by FACS. The first sorting scheme is based on their co-expression of surface specific markers, FSHr and Occludin-1, while the second focuses on the co-staining of SCs with FSHr-specific antibody and Hoechst 33342, which discriminates DNA content of testicular cells. The entire procedure can be completed in less than 3 h which permits the analysis of the development-related transcriptional profile of these cells. Notably, our comparative study showed that this method resulted in a SC transcriptome that is largely comparable to SCs which were briskly isolated due to their cell-specific expression of fluorescent protein. Interestingly, we also show that SCs sorted as FSHr+Occludin+ cells contained a tangible portion of transcripts from all types of testicular germ cells. Sorting of SCs according to their 2C DNA content significantly reduced the presence of these transcripts, thus seems to be the most suitable approach for accurate determination of the SC transcriptome. We believe that these novel approaches for the isolation of SCs will assist researchers in the elucidation of their function as well as their role in spermatogenesis and disorders related to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Petrusová
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jasper Manning
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jan Kubovčiak
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Michal Kolář
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Dominik Filipp
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Dominik Filipp,
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Diao L, Turek PJ, John CM, Fang F, Reijo Pera RA. Roles of Spermatogonial Stem Cells in Spermatogenesis and Fertility Restoration. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:895528. [PMID: 35634498 PMCID: PMC9135128 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.895528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are a group of adult stem cells in the testis that serve as the foundation of continuous spermatogenesis and male fertility. SSCs are capable of self-renewal to maintain the stability of the stem cell pool and differentiation to produce mature spermatozoa. Dysfunction of SSCs leads to male infertility. Therefore, dissection of the regulatory network of SSCs is of great significance in understanding the fundamental molecular mechanisms of spermatogonial stem cell function in spermatogenesis and the pathogenesis of male infertility. Furthermore, a better understanding of SSC biology will allow us to culture and differentiate SSCs in vitro, which may provide novel stem cell-based therapy for assisted reproduction. This review summarizes the latest research progress on the regulation of SSCs, and the potential application of SSCs for fertility restoration through in vivo and in vitro spermatogenesis. We anticipate that the knowledge gained will advance the application of SSCs to improve male fertility. Furthermore, in vitro spermatogenesis from SSCs sets the stage for the production of SSCs from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and subsequent spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Diao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | | | | | - Fang Fang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Fang Fang, ; Renee A. Reijo Pera,
| | - Renee A. Reijo Pera
- McLaughlin Research Institute, Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine – Montana (TouroCOM-MT), Great Falls, MT, United States
- Research Division, Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine – Montana (TouroCOM-MT), Great Falls, MT, United States
- *Correspondence: Fang Fang, ; Renee A. Reijo Pera,
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