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López-González I, Oseguera-López I, Castillo R, Darszon A. Influence of extracellular ATP on mammalian sperm physiology. Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD23227. [PMID: 38870344 DOI: 10.1071/rd23227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
In addition to its central role in cellular metabolism, adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) is an important extracellular signalling molecule involved in various physiological processes. In reproduction, extracellular ATP participates in both autocrine and paracrine paths regulating gametogenesis, gamete maturation and fertilisation. This review focusses on how extracellular ATP modulates sperm physiology with emphasis on the mammalian acrosome reaction. The presence of extracellular ATP in the reproductive tract is primarily determined by the ion channels and transporters that influence its movement within the cells comprising the tract. The main targets of extracellular ATP in spermatozoa are its own transporters, particularly species-specific sperm purinergic receptors. We also discuss notable phenotypes from knock-out mouse models and human Mendelian inheritance related to ATP release mechanisms, along with immunological, proteomic, and functional observations regarding sperm purinergic receptors and their involvement in sperm signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- I López-González
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad # 2001, Col. Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos CP 62210, México
| | - I Oseguera-López
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad # 2001, Col. Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos CP 62210, México
| | - R Castillo
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad # 2001, Col. Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos CP 62210, México
| | - A Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad # 2001, Col. Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos CP 62210, México
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Papadakos SP, Chatzikalil E, Arvanitakis K, Vakadaris G, Stergiou IE, Koutsompina ML, Argyrou A, Lekakis V, Konstantinidis I, Germanidis G, Theocharis S. Understanding the Role of Connexins in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Molecular and Prognostic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1533. [PMID: 38672615 PMCID: PMC11048329 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081533] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Connexins, a family of tetraspan membrane proteins forming intercellular channels localized in gap junctions, play a pivotal role at the different stages of tumor progression presenting both pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects. Considering the potential role of connexins as tumor suppressors through multiple channel-independent mechanisms, their loss of expression may be associated with tumorigenic activity, while it is hypothesized that connexins favor the clonal expansion of tumor cells and promote cell migration, invasion, and proliferation, affecting metastasis and chemoresistance in some cases. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), characterized by unfavorable prognosis and limited responsiveness to current therapeutic strategies, has been linked to gap junction proteins as tumorigenic factors with prognostic value. Notably, several members of connexins have emerged as promising markers for assessing the progression and aggressiveness of HCC, as well as the chemosensitivity and radiosensitivity of hepatocellular tumor cells. Our review sheds light on the multifaceted role of connexins in HCC pathogenesis, offering valuable insights on recent advances in determining their prognostic and therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Elena Chatzikalil
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.V.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Vakadaris
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.V.)
| | - Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (I.E.S.); (M.-L.K.)
| | - Maria-Loukia Koutsompina
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (I.E.S.); (M.-L.K.)
| | - Alexandra Argyrou
- Academic Department of Gastroenterology, Laikon General Hospital, Athens University Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (V.L.)
| | - Vasileios Lekakis
- Academic Department of Gastroenterology, Laikon General Hospital, Athens University Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (V.L.)
| | | | - Georgios Germanidis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.V.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (E.C.)
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Zhang M, Li H, Ma J, Yang C, Yang Y, Zhao B, Tie Y, Wang S. Effects of Zinc Combined with Metformin on Zinc Homeostasis, Blood-Epididymal Barrier, and Epididymal Absorption in Male Diabetic Mice. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024:10.1007/s12011-024-04171-y. [PMID: 38589680 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-024-04171-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Diabetes increases the likelihood of germ cell damage, hypogonadism, and male infertility. Diabetes leads to lower zinc (Zn) levels, an important micronutrient for maintaining male fertility, and zinc deficiency can lead to decreased male fertility through multiple mechanisms. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of combined metformin and zinc administration on epididymis in diabetic mice; 10 of 50 male mice were randomly selected as the control group (group C), and the remaining 40 mice were randomly divided into untreated diabetes group (group D), diabetes + zinc group (group Z), diabetes + metformin group (group M), and diabetes + metformin + zinc group (group ZM) with 10 mice each. Diabetic mice in group Z received oral zinc (10 mg/kg) once daily for 4 weeks; diabetic mice in group M received oral metformin (200 mg/kg) once daily for 4 weeks; diabetic mice in group ZM received oral metformin and zinc once daily for 4 weeks; and groups C and D received the same amount of sterile water by gavage. Overnight fasted mice were sacrificed, and blood samples, mouse epididymides, and sperm were collected for further experiments. In group D, fasting blood glucose and insulin resistance index increased significantly, semen quality, serum insulin, and testosterone decreased, and epididymal structure was disordered. In group D, epididymal tissue zinc, free zinc ions in the caput, and cauda of epididymis and zinc transporter (ZnT2) decreased significantly, while ZIP12, metallothionein (MT), and metal transcription factor (MTF1) increased significantly. In addition, the expressions of blood-epididymal barrier (BEB)-related molecules (including ZO-1 β-catenin and N-cadherin) and aquaporins (AQPs, including AQP3, AQP9, and AQP11) in the epididymis of mice in group D were significantly decreased. In addition, compared with groups D, Z, and M, in the ZM group, the expression of BEB-related molecules (including ZO-1, β-catenin, and N-cadherin) and aquaporins (AQP3, AQP9, and AQP11) in epididymis tissue were significantly increased, and sperm motility and serum testosterone were significantly increased. It was concluded that male diabetic mice have a disturbed epididymal structure and decreased semen quality by causing an imbalance in epididymal zinc homeostasis, BEB, and impaired absorptive function. The combination of zinc and metformin is an effective and safe alternative treatment and provides additional benefits over metformin alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghui Zhang
- Graduate School, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, China
| | - Huanhuan Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Jing Ma
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Chaoju Yang
- Department of Laboratory, Hebei Provincial People's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050051, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Bangrong Zhao
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Yanqing Tie
- Graduate School, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, China.
- Department of Laboratory, Hebei Provincial People's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050051, China.
| | - Shusong Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China.
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Gomes-Silva AP, Cunha de Medeiros PD, Silva LN, Da Silva Araújo Santiago M, Perobelli JE. Exposure to manganese during sertoli cell formation and proliferation disturbs early testicular development in rats. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 120:108447. [PMID: 37499885 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108447] [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: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Manganese (Mn) is a metal and important micronutrient. However, exposure to supraphysiological levels of Mn, which occur through fungicides, atmospheric emissions, drainages, and spills, has been related to health risks, including morphometric changes in the male reproductive organs and impairment on gametogenesis and sperm quality, impacting the fertile ability of adult animals. Despite the relevance of the fetal/perinatal period for toxicological studies on Mn, previous data only deal with the physical and neurological development of the offspring, without mentioning their reproductive development. The present study investigated whether exposure to Mn during fetal/perinatal phase, specifically during the period of formation and proliferation of Sertoli cells, impairs the reproductive development of male offspring in early postnatal life. Therefore, pregnant Wistar rats were randomly distributed into 3 experimental groups: Ctl (received saline solution), Mn-9 (received 9 mg/kg of MnCl2), and Mn-90 (received 90 mg/kg of MnCl2). The female rats received the experimental treatment by gavage from gestational day 13 to lactational day 15, i.e., postnatal day (PND) 15 of the pups. Oxidative damage to the genetic material of germ and Sertoli cells, together with a decrease in connexin 43 immunolabeling were observed in the testis of male pups evaluated at PND 15. In addition, an increase in the seminiferous tubules presenting slight epithelium vacuolization and cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm were observed, without apparent epididymal changes. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that Mn perturbed the initial testicular development by altering Sertoli cell integrity through oxidative insult, which may compromise the spermatogenesis in the long-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Priscila Gomes-Silva
- Laboratory of Experimental Toxicology - LATOEX, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Instituto do Mar, Carvalho de Mendonça, 144, 11070-100 Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Paloma da Cunha de Medeiros
- Laboratory of Experimental Toxicology - LATOEX, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Instituto do Mar, Carvalho de Mendonça, 144, 11070-100 Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Laís Nogueira Silva
- Laboratory of Experimental Toxicology - LATOEX, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Instituto do Mar, Carvalho de Mendonça, 144, 11070-100 Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcella Da Silva Araújo Santiago
- Laboratory of Experimental Toxicology - LATOEX, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Instituto do Mar, Carvalho de Mendonça, 144, 11070-100 Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana Elaine Perobelli
- Laboratory of Experimental Toxicology - LATOEX, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Instituto do Mar, Carvalho de Mendonça, 144, 11070-100 Santos, SP, Brazil.
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da Silva AAS, de Santi F, Hinton BT, Cerri PS, Sasso-Cerri E. Venlafaxine increases aromatization, reduces apical V-ATPase in clear cells and induces increased number of mast cells and smooth muscle cells death in rat cauda epididymis. Life Sci 2023; 315:121329. [PMID: 36584913 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121329] [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: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Depressive disorders (DD) have affected millions of people worldwide. Venlafaxine, antidepressant of the class of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, has been prescribed for the treatment of DD. In rat testes, venlafaxine induces testosterone (T) aromatization and increases estrogen levels. Aromatase is a key enzyme for the formation of estrogen in the epididymis, an essential organ for male fertility. We investigated the impact of serotonergic/noradrenergic venlafaxine effect on the epididymal cauda region, focusing on aromatase, V-ATPase and EGF epithelial immunoexpression, smooth muscle (SM) integrity and mast cells number (MCN). Male rats were distributed into control (CG; n = 10) and venlafaxine (VFG, n = 10) groups. VFG received 30 mg/kg b.w. of venlafaxine for 35 days. The epididymal cauda was processed for light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The expression of connexin 43 (Cx43) and estrogen alpha (Esr1), adrenergic (Adra1a) and serotonergic (Htr1b) receptors were analyzed. Clear cells (CCs) area, SM thickness, viable spermatozoa (VS) and MCN were evaluated. Apoptosis was confirmed by TUNEL and TEM. The following immunoreactions were performed: T, aromatase, T/aromatase co-localization, V-ATPase, EGF, Cx43 and PCNA. The increased Adra1a and reduced Htr1b expressions confirmed the noradrenergic and serotonergic venlafaxine effects, respectively, corroborating the increased MCN, apoptosis and atrophy of SM. In VFG, the epithelial EGF increased, explaining Cx43 overexpression and basal cells mitotic activity. T aromatization and Esr1 downregulation indicate high estrogen levels, explaining CCs hypertrophy and changes in the V-ATPase localization, corroborating VS reduction. Thus, in addition to serotonergic/noradrenergic effects, T/estrogen imbalance, induced by venlafaxine, impairs epididymal structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Acácio Souza da Silva
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Dentistry, Department of Morphology, Genetics, Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Fabiane de Santi
- Federal University of São Paulo, Department of Morphology and Genetics, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Barry T Hinton
- University of Virginia, School of Medicine, Department of Cell Biology, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Paulo Sérgio Cerri
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Dentistry, Department of Morphology, Genetics, Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Estela Sasso-Cerri
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Dentistry, Department of Morphology, Genetics, Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, Araraquara, Brazil.
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Gap junctions mediate discrete regulatory steps during fly spermatogenesis. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010417. [PMID: 36174062 PMCID: PMC9578636 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Gametogenesis requires coordinated signaling between germ cells and somatic cells. We previously showed that Gap junction (GJ)-mediated soma-germline communication is essential for fly spermatogenesis. Specifically, the GJ protein Innexin4/Zero population growth (Zpg) is necessary for somatic and germline stem cell maintenance and differentiation. It remains unknown how GJ-mediated signals regulate spermatogenesis or whether the function of these signals is restricted to the earliest stages of spermatogenesis. Here we carried out comprehensive structure/function analysis of Zpg using insights obtained from the protein structure of innexins to design mutations aimed at selectively perturbing different regulatory regions as well as the channel pore of Zpg. We identify the roles of various regulatory sites in Zpg in the assembly and maintenance of GJs at the plasma membrane. Moreover, mutations designed to selectively disrupt, based on size and charge, the passage of cargos through the Zpg channel pore, blocked different stages of spermatogenesis. Mutations were identified that progressed through early germline and soma development, but exhibited defects in entry to meiosis or sperm individualisation, resulting in reduced fertility or sterility. Our work shows that specific signals that pass through GJs regulate the transition between different stages of gametogenesis.
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Najih M, Nguyen HT, Martin LJ. Involvement of calmodulin-dependent protein kinase I in the regulation of the expression of connexin 43 in MA-10 tumor Leydig cells. Mol Cell Biochem 2022; 478:791-805. [PMID: 36094721 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04553-7] [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: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Connexin 43 (Cx43, also known as Gja1) is the most abundant testicular gap junction protein. It has a crucial role in the support of spermatogenesis by Sertoli cells in the seminiferous tubules as well as in androgen synthesis by Leydig cells. The multifunctional family of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinases (CaMK) is composed of CaMK I, II, and IV and each can serve as a mediator of nuclear Ca2+ signals. These kinases can control gene expression by phosphorylation of key regulatory sites on transcription factors. Among these, AP-1 members cFos and cJun are interesting candidates that seem to cooperate with CaMKs to regulate Cx43 expression in Leydig cells. In this study, the Cx43 promoter region important for CaMK-dependent activation is characterized using co-transfection of plasmid reporter-constructs with different plasmids coding for CaMKs and/or AP-1 members in MA-10 Leydig cells. Here we report that the activation of Cx43 expression by cFos and cJun is increased by CaMKI. Furthermore, results from chromatin immunoprecipitation suggest that the recruitment of AP-1 family members to the proximal region of the Cx43 promoter may involve another uncharacterized AP-1 DNA regulatory element and/or protein-protein interactions with other partners. Thus, our data provide new insights into the molecular regulatory mechanisms that control mouse Cx43 transcription in testicular Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustapha Najih
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, 18, avenue Antonine Maillet, Moncton, NB, E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Ha Tuyen Nguyen
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, 18, avenue Antonine Maillet, Moncton, NB, E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Luc J Martin
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, 18, avenue Antonine Maillet, Moncton, NB, E1A 3E9, Canada.
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Omolaoye TS, Jalaleddine N, Cardona Maya WD, du Plessis SS. Mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 and Male Infertility: Could Connexin and Pannexin Play a Role? Front Physiol 2022; 13:866675. [PMID: 35721552 PMCID: PMC9205395 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.866675] [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: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on male infertility has lately received significant attention. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in humans, has been shown to impose adverse effects on both the structural components and function of the testis, which potentially impact spermatogenesis. These adverse effects are partially explained by fever, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and an increased immune response leading to impaired blood-testis barrier. It has been well established that efficient cellular communication via gap junctions or functional channels is required for tissue homeostasis. Connexins and pannexins are two protein families that mediate autocrine and paracrine signaling between the cells and the extracellular environment. These channel-forming proteins have been shown to play a role in coordinating cellular communication in the testis and epididymis. Despite their role in maintaining a proper male reproductive milieu, their function is disrupted under pathological conditions. The involvement of these channels has been well documented in several physiological and pathological conditions and their designated function in infectious diseases. However, their role in COVID-19 and their meaningful contribution to male infertility remains to be elucidated. Therefore, this review highlights the multivariate pathophysiological mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 involvement in male reproduction. It also aims to shed light on the role of connexin and pannexin channels in disease progression, emphasizing their unexplored role and regulation of SARS-CoV-2 pathophysiology. Finally, we hypothesize the possible involvement of connexins and pannexins in SARS-CoV-2 inducing male infertility to assist future research ideas targeting therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temidayo S. Omolaoye
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nour Jalaleddine
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Walter D. Cardona Maya
- Reproduction Group, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Stefan S. du Plessis
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Stefan S. du Plessis,
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Kim B, Breton S. The MAPK/ERK signaling pathway regulates the expression and localization of Cx43 in mouse proximal epididymis†. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:919-927. [PMID: 35156117 PMCID: PMC9113436 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to clarify the functional role of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2)-signaling pathway in the expression and localization of connexin 43 (Cx43). Mice were treated with the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK1/2) inhibitor, PD325901, which induced a progressive decrease in ERK1/2 phosphorylation (pERK) in the proximal epididymis of the mice, without affecting total ERK level. Cx43 staining with punctuated reactive sites was observed in the basolateral membranes in the initial segment (IS) of mouse epididymis. However, PD325901 induced a significant decrease in Cx43 labeling in the basolateral membranes. Interestingly, Cx43, which was undetectable in the apical region of epididymis under control conditions, showed a significant increase in the apical region after PD 325901 treatment. To confirm whether Cx43 was present in tight junctions (TJs) after PD 325901 treatment, PD325901-treated epididymis samples were double-labeled with Cx43 and zonula occludens (ZO)-1 (a TJ protein marker). Thereafter, confocal microscopy showed the colocalization of Cx43 and ZO-1 in the epididymis after PD325901 treatment. Collectively, our results indicated that PD325901 treatment induced a significant increase in Cx43 localization on TJs, where it was colocalized with ZO-1. Therefore, the study suggested that ERK phosphorylation is essential for the proper expression and localization of the gap junction (GJ) protein, and that the relationship between GJs and TJs could play an important role in establishing and maintaining microenvironmental homeostasis for sperm maturation in the IS of mouse epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bongki Kim
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan, Chungcheongnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Greifová H, Jambor T, Tokárová K, Knížatová N, Lukáč N. In Vitro Effect of Resveratrol Supplementation on Oxidative Balance and Intercellular Communication of Leydig Cells Subjected to Induced Oxidative Stress. Folia Biol (Praha) 2022. [DOI: 10.3409/fb_70-1.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Many studies have revealed that oxidative stress is a primary factor in the pathogenesis of male reproductive system dysfunctions. The strong antioxidant and cytoprotective effects of resveratrol have previously been demonstrated, but its effect in the context of the male reproduction
remains unconvincing. To observe the biological activity of resveratrol in protecting the male reproductive function, hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in Leydig cells was used as a cell model. The aim of the present study was to examine if resveratrol could induce changes in the
gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC), nitric oxide production, total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in TM3 Leydig cells subjected to H2O2. The Leydig cells were exposed to a resveratrol treatment (5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 μM) in the
presence or absence of H2O2 (300/600 μM) during a 24 h in vitro culture. The cell lysates to assess TOS and TAC, NO production were quantified in a culture medium using the Griess method, and the Scrape Loading/Dye Transfer (SL/DT) technique was used for the
determination of GJIC in the exposed TM3 Leydig cells. Treatment with higher doses of resveratrol alone led to a significantly increased TOS (p<0.05 with 100 μM) and NO production (p<0.05 with 50 μM and 100 μM), but significantly reduced TAC (p<0.01 with 100 μM) and GJIC
(p<0.05 with 100 μM), while the SL/DT evaluation in the cells exposed to resveratrol at concentrations 5 μM (p<0.05) and 10 μM (p<0.01) revealed a significant stimulation of GJIC. The most potent cytoprotective or stimulatory effect of resveratrol in the cells co-exposed
to oxidative stress (300 μM H2O2) was observed at a concentration of 10 μM in the case of GJIC, which was manifested by a significant increase in the values (p<0.05) compared to the control group treated with H2O2 alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Greifová
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Tomáš Jambor
- BioFood Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Katarína Tokárová
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Nikola Knížatová
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Norbert Lukáč
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
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Manfrevola F, Martinez G, Coutton C, Rocco D, Reynaud K, Le Vern Y, Froment P, Beauclair L, Aubert D, Pierantoni R, Chianese R, Guillou F. Ankrd31 in Sperm and Epididymal Integrity. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:741975. [PMID: 34820371 PMCID: PMC8607815 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.741975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ankyrin proteins (ANKRD) are key mediators linking membrane and sub-membranous cytoskeletal proteins. Recent findings have highlighted a new role of ANKRD31 during spermatogenesis, elucidating its involvement in meiotic recombination and male germ cell progression. Following testicular differentiation, spermatozoa (SPZ) enter into the epididymis, where they undergo several biochemical and enzymatic changes. The epididymal epithelium is characterized by cell-to-cell junctions that are able to form the blood-epididymal barrier (BEB). This intricate epithelial structure provides the optimal microenvironment needed for epididymal sperm maturation. To date, no notions have been reported regarding a putative role of ANKRD31 in correct BEB formation. In our work, we generated an Ankrd31 knockout male mouse model (Ankrd31–/–) and characterized its reproductive phenotype. Ankrd31–/– mice were infertile and exhibited oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia (a low number of immotile SPZ with abnormal morphological features). In addition, a complete deregulation of BEB was found in Ankrd31–/–, due to cell-to-cell junction anomalies. In order to suggest that BEB deregulation may depend on Ankrd31 gene deletion, we showed the physical interaction among ANKRD31 and some epithelial junction proteins in wild-type (WT) epididymides. In conclusion, the current work shows a key role of ANKRD31 in the control of germ cell progression as well as sperm and epididymal integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Manfrevola
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Guillaume Martinez
- Hôpital Couple-Enfant, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, UM de Génétique Chromosomique, Grenoble, France.,Genetic Epigenetic and Therapies of Infertility, Institute for Advanced Biosciences INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Charles Coutton
- Hôpital Couple-Enfant, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, UM de Génétique Chromosomique, Grenoble, France.,Genetic Epigenetic and Therapies of Infertility, Institute for Advanced Biosciences INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Domenico Rocco
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Karine Reynaud
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - Yves Le Vern
- INRAE, Université de Tours, ISP, Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Froment
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - Linda Beauclair
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - Denise Aubert
- Univ Lyon, ENS de Lyon, INRAE, CNRS, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosanna Chianese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Florian Guillou
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
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12
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Couture R, Martin LJ. The transcription factors SF-1 and SOX8 cooperate to upregulate Cx43 expression in mouse TM4 sertoli cells. Biochem Biophys Rep 2020; 24:100828. [PMID: 33088929 PMCID: PMC7558832 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2020.100828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions made by connexins within the adult testis are essential for communication between Sertoli cells and for spermatogenesis. Sertoli cells play an important role in supporting germ cells differentiation and maturation into spermatozoa. Connexin43 (Cx43) is the most abundant and important connexin of the testis. We have shown previously that the expression of Cx43 is being regulated by SOX and AP-1 transcription factors in Sertoli cells. However, additional regulatory elements being able to recruit orphan nuclear receptors may be involved. Since SOX and SF-1 transcription factors have been shown to cooperate to regulate gene expression in Sertoli cells, we wondered if such mechanism could be involved in the activation of Cx43 expression. Thus, the activity of the Cx43 promoter was measured by co-transfections of luciferase reporter plasmid constructs with different expression vectors for transcription factors in the TM4 Sertoli cell line. The recruitment of SF-1 to the proximal region of the Cx43 promoter was evaluated by chromatin immunoprecipitation. Our results indicate that SOX8 and SF-1, as well as SOX9 and Nur77, cooperate to activate the expression of Cx43 and that SF-1 is being recruited to the −132 to −26 bp region of the Cx43 promoter. These results allow us to have a better understanding of the mechanisms regulating Cx43 expression and could explain some disturbances in communication between Sertoli cells responsible for impaired fertility. SF-1 and SOX8 cooperate to activate Cx43 expression in TM4 Sertoli cells. SF-1 is being recruited to the proximal region of the Cx43 promoter. LRH-1 and Nur77 also cooperate with SOX factors to activate Cx43 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne Couture
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New-Brunswick, E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Luc J Martin
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New-Brunswick, E1A 3E9, Canada
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13
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Yawer A, Sychrová E, Labohá P, Raška J, Jambor T, Babica P, Sovadinová I. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals rapidly affect intercellular signaling in Leydig cells. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2020; 404:115177. [PMID: 32739526 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2020.115177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
A decline in male fertility possibly caused by environmental contaminants, namely endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), is a topic of public concern and scientific interest. This study addresses a specific role of testicular gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) between adjacent prepubertal Leydig cells in endocrine disruption and male reproductive toxicity. Organochlorine pesticides (lindane, methoxychlor, DDT), industrial chemicals (PCB153, bisphenol A, nonylphenol and octylphenol) as well as personal care product components (triclosan, triclocarban) rapidly dysregulated GJIC in murine Leydig TM3 cells. The selected GJIC-inhibiting EDCs (methoxychlor, triclosan, triclocarban, lindane, DDT) caused the immediate GJIC disruption by the relocation of gap junctional protein connexin 43 (Cx43) from the plasma membrane and the alternation of Cx43 phosphorylation pattern (Ser368, Ser279, Ser282) of its full-length and two N-truncated isoforms. After more prolonged exposure (24 h), EDCs decreased steady-state levels of full-length Cx43 protein and its two N-truncated isoforms, and eventually (triclosan, triclocarban) also tight junction protein Tjp-1. The disturbance of GJIC was accompanied by altered activity of mitogen-activated protein kinases MAPK-Erk1/2 and MAPK-p38, and a decrease in stimulated progesterone production. Our results indicate that EDCs might disrupt testicular homeostasis and development via disruption of testicular GJIC, a dysregulation of junctional and non-junctional functions of Cx43, activation of MAPKs, and disruption of an early stage of steroidogenesis in prepubertal Leydig cells. These critical disturbances of Leydig cell development and functions during a prepubertal period might be contributing to impaired male reproduction health later on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Affiefa Yawer
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eliška Sychrová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Labohá
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Raška
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Jambor
- BioFood Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovac Republic
| | - Pavel Babica
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Iva Sovadinová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic.
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14
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Girardet L, Bernet A, Calvo E, Soulet D, Joly-Beauparlant C, Droit A, Cyr DG, Belleannée C. Hedgehog signaling pathway regulates gene expression profile of epididymal principal cells through the primary cilium. FASEB J 2020; 34:7593-7609. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000328r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Girardet
- Faculty of Medicine Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL) Quebec City QC Canada
| | - Agathe Bernet
- Faculty of Medicine Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL) Quebec City QC Canada
| | - Ezéquiel Calvo
- Faculty of Medicine Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL) Quebec City QC Canada
| | - Denis Soulet
- Faculty of Pharmacy Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL) Quebec City QC Canada
| | - Charles Joly-Beauparlant
- Computational Biology Laboratory Research Centre Faculty of Medicine Laval University Quebec City QC Canada
| | - Arnaud Droit
- Computational Biology Laboratory Research Centre Faculty of Medicine Laval University Quebec City QC Canada
| | - Daniel G. Cyr
- Faculty of Medicine Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL) Quebec City QC Canada
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology INRS‐Institut Armand‐Frappier Université du Québec Laval QC Canada
| | - Clémence Belleannée
- Faculty of Medicine Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL) Quebec City QC Canada
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15
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Gregory M, Cyr DG. Effects of prostaglandin E2 on gap junction protein alpha 1 in the rat epididymis. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:123-132. [PMID: 30060123 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions are responsible for intercellular communication. In the adult mammalian epididymis, gap junction protein alpha 1 (GJA1) is localized between basal and either principal or clear cells. GJA1 levels and localization change during the differentiation of basal cells. The present objective was to determine the role of basal cells and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on GJA1 in the rat epididymis. Prior to basal cell differentiation, GJA1 is colocalized with TJP1 at the apical lateral margins between adjacent epithelial cells. When basal cells are present, GJA1 becomes associated between basal and principal cells, where it is primarily immunolocalized until adulthood. Basal cells express TP63, differentiate from epithelial cells, and produce prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 1 by 21 days of age. Prior to day 21, GJA1and TP63 are not strongly associated at the apical region. However, by day 28, TP63-positive basal cells migrate to the base of the epithelium, and also express GJA1. To assess effects of PGE2 on GJA1, rat caput epididymal (RCE) cells were exposed to PGE2 (50 μM) for 3 h. PGE2 increased levels of Gja1 mRNA in RCE cells, while levels of Gjb1, Gjb2, Gjb4, and GjB5 were unaltered. Furthermore, PGE2 increased protein levels of GJA1, phospho-GJA1, phospho-AKT, CTNNB1, and phospho-CTNNB1. Total AKT and the tight junction protein claudin1 were also not altered by PGE2. Data suggest that development of the epididymal epithelium and differentiation of epididymal basal cells regulate the targeting of GJA1, and that this appears to be mediated by PGE2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Gregory
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, University of Quebec, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, University of Quebec, Laval, Quebec, Canada
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16
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Pardyak L, Kaminska A, Brzoskwinia M, Hejmej A, Kotula-Balak M, Jankowski J, Ciereszko A, Bilinska B. Differential expression of cell-cell junction proteins in the testis, epididymis, and ductus deferens of domestic turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) with white and yellow semen. Poult Sci 2020; 99:555-566. [PMID: 32416842 PMCID: PMC7587856 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pez494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tight, adherens, and gap junctions are involved in the regulation of reproductive tissue function in male mammals. In birds, including domestic turkeys, intercellular interactions performed by junctional networks have not yet been studied. Furthermore, the cellular and molecular basis of yellow semen syndrome (YSS) in the turkey population remains poorly understood. Thus, the aim of the present study was 2-fold: first, to provide new information on the localization and expression of cell-cell junction proteins in the testis, epididymis, and ductus deferens of domestic turkeys and second, to compare expression of junctional protein genes between 2 turkey population, one that produces white normal semen (WNS) and the other that produces yellow abnormal semen. Expression of occludin, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), connexin 43 (Cx43), N- and E-cadherin, and β-catenin genes were investigated using 3 complementary techniques: quantitative real-time PCR, western blot, and immunohistochemistry. Compared to WNS testis, epididymis, and ductus deferens, YSS tissues exhibited downregulation of occludin and β-catenin mRNA (P < 0.05) and protein (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) and upregulation of N- and E-cadherin mRNA (P < 0.001, P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively) and protein (P < 0.01, P < 0.05, and P < 0.05, respectively). In contrast, ZO-1 and Cx43 mRNA and protein were upregulated in YSS testis (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively) but not in epididymis and ductus deferens; both mRNAs and proteins were downregulated (P < 0.05) compared to the respective WNS epididymis and ductus deferens. Altered staining intensity of immunoreactive proteins in YSS vs. WNS reproductive tissue sections confirmed the gene expression results. The present study is the first to demonstrate altered levels of junctional protein gene expression in reproductive tissues of male YSS turkeys. These findings may suggest that subtle changes in junctional protein expression affect the microenvironment in which spermatozoa develop and mature and thus may have an impact on the appearance of yellow semen in domestic turkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Pardyak
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - A Kaminska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - M Brzoskwinia
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - A Hejmej
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - M Kotula-Balak
- University Centre of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
| | - J Jankowski
- Department of Poultry Science, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-957 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - A Ciereszko
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, 10-243 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - B Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland.
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17
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Stafuzza NB, Costa E Silva EVD, Silva RMDO, Costa Filho LCCD, Barbosa FB, Macedo GG, Lobo RB, Baldi F. Genome-wide association study for age at puberty in young Nelore bulls. J Anim Breed Genet 2019; 137:234-244. [PMID: 31515857 DOI: 10.1111/jbg.12438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Selection for bulls that would reach puberty early reduces the generation interval and increases fertility and herd productivity. Despite its economic importance, there are few QTL associated with age at puberty described in the literature. In this study, a weighted single-step genome-wide association study was performed to detect genomic regions and putative candidate genes related to age at puberty in young Nelore bulls. Several protein-coding genes related to spermatogenesis functions were identified within the genomic regions that explain more than 0.5% of the additive genetic variance for age at puberty in Nelore bulls, such as ADAM11, BRCA1, CSNK2A, CREBBP, MEIOC, NDRG2, NECTIN3, PARP2, PARP9, PRSS21, RAD51C, RNASE4, SLX4, SPA17, TEX14, TIMP2 and TRIP13 gene. Enrichment analysis by DAVID also revealed several GO terms related to spermatogenesis such as DNA replication (GO:0006260), male meiosis I (GO:0007141), double-strand break repair (GO:0006302), base excision repair (GO:0006284), apoptotic process (GO:0006915), cell-cell adhesion (GO: 0098609) and focal adhesion (GO:0005925). The heritability for age at puberty shows that this trait can be improved based on traditional EBV selection. Adding genomic information to the system helps to elucidate genes and molecular mechanisms controlling the sexual precocity and could help to predict sexual precocity in Nelore bulls with greater accuracy at younger age, which would speed up the breeding programme for this breed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eliane Vianna da Costa E Silva
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FAMEZ), Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), Campo Grande, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz Carlos Cesar da Costa Filho
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FAMEZ), Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), Campo Grande, Brazil.,PROCRIAR Assistência Veterinária, Campo Grande, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Battistotti Barbosa
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FAMEZ), Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), Campo Grande, Brazil.,PROCRIAR Assistência Veterinária, Campo Grande, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Guerino Macedo
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FAMEZ), Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), Campo Grande, Brazil
| | - Raysildo B Lobo
- Associação Nacional dos Criadores e Pesquisadores (ANCP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Fernando Baldi
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV), Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
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18
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Kempinas WG, Borges CS, Leite GAA, Figueiredo TM, Gregory M, Cyr DG. Prenatal exposure to betamethasone causes intergenerational impairment of epididymal development in the rat. Andrology 2019; 7:719-729. [PMID: 31250541 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies on epididymal toxicology are scarce. Betamethasone (BM) is a glucocorticoid used in clinical practice for antenatal therapy. We previously reported changes to testicular morphology, altered sperm quality, and fertility in adult rats following intrauterine administration of BM. OBJECTIVES Given that high levels of corticosteroids during gestation lead to fetal androgen depletion, and the essential role of testosterone during epididymal development, here we investigated epididymal morphology and physiology in the F1 and F2 male offspring of female rats treated with BM during gestation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Pregnant rats were randomly divided into two experimental groups: control (saline vehicle, n = 11) and BM-treated group (0.1 mg/kg betamethasone 21-phosphate disodium, n = 13). Rats received an intramuscular injection of vehicle or BM on gestational days 12, 13, 18, and 19. This encompasses the beginning of the critical window of male rat reproductive tract development. A subset of three males from each litter (n = 5 litters/group) was used: One rat per litter was euthanized at puberty, one was euthanized at adulthood, while the others were mated with a non-treated female to obtain the F2 generation. The same protocol described for the F1 was applied for F2, except for the mating protocol. RESULTS In both F1 and F2 generations, prenatal BM exposure resulted in delayed differentiation of the cauda epididymal epithelium, characterized by increased cribriform appearance on PND 45, and displayed weaker or non-detectable Cx43 immunostaining. Furthermore, in the F1 generation only, immunostaining of TP63, a transcription factor expressed in basal cells, appeared more intense with a greater number of TP63-positive cells observed in the cauda epididymis. In adults, the epithelial area was reduced in the F1 BM rats. The contractile activity of isolated epididymal ducts was comparable between groups. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Prenatal BM exposure leads to intergenerational impairment in the development and structure of the rat epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- W G Kempinas
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Morphology Department, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - C S Borges
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Morphology Department, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - G A A Leite
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Morphology Department, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - T M Figueiredo
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Morphology Department, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - M Gregory
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, University of Quebec, Laval, QC, Canada
| | - D G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, University of Quebec, Laval, QC, Canada
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19
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Sullivan R, Légaré C, Lamontagne‐Proulx J, Breton S, Soulet D. Revisiting structure/functions of the human epididymis. Andrology 2019; 7:748-757. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Sullivan
- Department Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Faculty Medicine Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
- Reproduction, Mother and Youth Health Division Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec‐Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
| | - C. Légaré
- Department Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Faculty Medicine Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
- Reproduction, Mother and Youth Health Division Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec‐Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
| | - J. Lamontagne‐Proulx
- Faculty Pharmacy Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
- Neurosciences Division Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec‐Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
| | - S. Breton
- Massachusetts General Hospital Harvard Medical School Boston MA USA
| | - D. Soulet
- Faculty Pharmacy Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
- Neurosciences Division Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec‐Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
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20
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Kolasa-Wołosiuk A, Misiakiewicz-Has K, Baranowska-Bosiacka I, Gutowska I, Tarnowski M, Tkacz M, Wiszniewska B. Connexin 43 expression in the testes during postnatal development of finasteride-treated male rat offspring. Arch Med Sci 2018; 14:1471-1479. [PMID: 30393503 PMCID: PMC6209711 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2016.63022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hormone-dependent events that occur throughout the first wave of spermatogenesis, such as cellular communication within seminiferous epithelium during early postnatal testis maturation, are important for adult male fertility. Any changes in the T/DHT ratio in male progeny born from females fertilized by finasteride-treated male rats can result in impairment of testicular physiology. The aim of the study was to verify whether finasteride has a transgenerational effect on the expression of connexin 43 (Cx43), a gap junction protein in testes of the F1 generation. MATERIAL AND METHODS The subjects of the study were 7, 14, 21/22, 28, and 90-day-old Wistar male rats born by females fertilized by finasteride-treated rats (F1:Fin). The offspring born by untreated rats were used as controls (F1:Control). Connexin 43 was evaluated in the seminiferous epithelium by immunohistochemistry, and in the testis homogenates by Western blot and qRT-PCR. The Cx43 mRNA and protein expression was correlated with intratesticular levels of T and DHT by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. RESULTS We observed a difference in the Cx43 expression in the testis of male rats born by female rats fertilized by finasteride-treated male rats, as compared to the control on following PND (7, 22 and 28 PND, p < 0.001; 14 PND, p < 0.01); and a strong, positive correlation between Cx43 with DHT was only in the F1:Fin group (mRNA: rs = +0.51, p = 0.004; protein: rs = +0.54, p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS Finasteride treatment of male adult rats may cause changes in the communication between the testicular cells of their offspring, leading to a defective course of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Izabela Gutowska
- Department of Biochemistry and Human Nutrition, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Maciej Tarnowski
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Marta Tkacz
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Barbara Wiszniewska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
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21
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Cyr DG, Gregory M. A special issue on the effects of toxicants on cellular junctions in development and reproduction. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 83:80-81. [PMID: 30172850 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, 531 boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 1B7 Canada.
| | - Mary Gregory
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, 531 boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 1B7 Canada
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22
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Ghouili F, Roumaud P, Martin LJ. Gja1 expression is regulated by cooperation between SOX8/SOX9 and cJUN transcription factors in TM4 and 15P-1 Sertoli cell lines. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 85:875-886. [PMID: 30080944 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Within the seminiferous tubules of the testis, Gja1-encoded connexin43 plays a critical role in intercellular communication between Sertoli cells. These cells nurture, protect and stimulate the developing germ cells and spermatids. SOX transcription factors are known to play an important role in male fertility and sex determination; however, their physiological function and the identity of their target genes in postnatal Sertoli cells remain to be defined. Members of the activating protein-1 (AP-1) family have been shown to regulate Gja1 expression in myometrial and testicular cells and to physically interact with SOX members, suggesting that these transcription factors may regulate its expression within the testis. Hence, we performed co-transfections of expression plasmids encoding SOX4, SOX8, SOX9 and cJUN with different mouse Gja1 promoter/luciferase reporter constructs within TM4 and 15P-1 Sertoli cells. We showed that a functional cooperation between cJUN and SOX8 or SOX9 regulates Gja1 expression and may involve DNA regulatory elements located between -132 and -26 bp. Such synergy relies on the recruitment of cJUN to the -47 base pair (bp) AP-1 DNA regulatory element of the mouse Gja1 promoter. Hence, SOX and AP-1 members cooperate to regulate Gja1 within testicular Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firas Ghouili
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New-Brunswick, Canada
| | - Pauline Roumaud
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New-Brunswick, Canada
| | - Luc J Martin
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New-Brunswick, Canada
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Cyr DG, Dufresne J, Gregory M. Cellular junctions in the epididymis, a critical parameter for understanding male reproductive toxicology. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 81:207-219. [PMID: 30130578 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Epididymal sperm maturation is a critical aspect of male reproduction in which sperm acquire motility and the ability to fertilize an ovum. Sperm maturation is dependent on the creation of a specific environment that changes along the epididymis and which enables the maturation process. The blood-epididymis barrier creates a unique luminal micro-environment, different from blood, by limiting paracellular transport and forcing receptor-mediated transport of macromolecules across the epididymal epithelium. Direct cellular communication between cells allows coordinated function of the epithelium. A limited number of studies have directly examined the effects of toxicants on junctional proteins and barrier function in the epididymis. Effects on the integrity of the blood-epididymis barrier have resulted in decreased fertility and, in some cases, the development of sperm granulomas. Studies have shown that in addition to tight junctions, proteins implicated in the maintenance of adherens junctions and gap junctions alter epididymal functions. This review will provide an overview of the types and roles of cellular junctions in the epididymis, and how these are targeted by different toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, Québec, H7V 1B7, Canada.
| | - Julie Dufresne
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, Québec, H7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Mary Gregory
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, Québec, H7V 1B7, Canada
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24
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Hejmej A, Bilinska B. The effects of flutamide on cell-cell junctions in the testis, epididymis, and prostate. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 81:1-16. [PMID: 29958919 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we summarize recent findings on the effect of the anti-androgen flutamide on cell-cell junctions in the male reproductive system. We outline developmental aspects of flutamide action on the testis, epididymis, and prostate, and describe changes in junction protein expression and organization of junctional complexes in the adult boar following prenatal and postnatal exposure. We also discuss findings on the mechanisms by which flutamide induces alterations in cell-cell junctions in reproductive tissues of adult males, with special emphasis on cytoplasmic effects. Based on the results from in vivo and in vitro studies in the rat, we propose that flutamide affects the expression of junction proteins and junction complex structure not only by inhibiting androgen receptor activity, but equally important by modulating protein kinase-dependent signaling in testicular cells. Additionally, results from studies on prostate cancer cell lines point to a role for the cellular molecular outfit in response to flutamide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hejmej
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Barbara Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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25
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Lee KH, Kim NH. Expressional Patterns of Connexin Isoforms in the Rat Epididymal Fat during Postnatal Development. Dev Reprod 2018; 22:29-38. [PMID: 29707682 PMCID: PMC5915765 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2018.22.1.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 03/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In the multicellular tissue, cell-cell interaction is important for a precise
control of its function. The exchange of signaling molecules between adjacent
cells via connexon allows the functional harmony of cells in the tissue. The
present research was to determine the presence and expressional patterns of
connexin (Cx) isoforms in the rat epididymal fat during
postnatal development using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction
(PCR) analysis. Of 13 Cx isoforms examined, expression of 11
Cx isoforms in the epididymal fat during postnatal
development was detected. These Cx isoforms include
Cx26, Cx31, Cx31.1,
Cx32, Cx33, Cx36,
Cx37, Cx40, Cx43,
Cx45, and Cx50. Expressional levels of all
Cx isoforms at 1 and 2 years of age were significantly
higher than those at the early postnatal ages, such as 7 days, 14 days, and 24
days of ages. Except Cx33 and Cx43, the
transcript levels of rest Cx isoforms at 1 year of age were
significantly lower than that at 2 years of age. In addition, expressional
patterns of Cx isoforms between 7 days and 5 months of ages
generally varied according to the isoform. The existence of various
Cx isoforms in the rat epididymal fat has been identified
and expression of each Cx isoform in the epididymal fat during
postnatal development has shown a particular pattern, distinguishable from the
others. To our knowledges, this is the first report showing expressional
patterns of Cx isoforms at transcript level in the epididymal
fat at various postnatal ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Ho Lee
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 34824, Korea
| | - Nan Hee Kim
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 34824, Korea
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26
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Hernandez A. Thyroid Hormone Role and Economy in the Developing Testis. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2018; 106:473-500. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2017.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Fang F, Ni K, Cai Y, Zhao Q, Shang J, Zhang X, Shen S, Xiong C. Busulfan administration produces toxic effects on epididymal morphology and inhibits the expression of ZO-1 and vimentin in the mouse epididymis. Biosci Rep 2017; 37:BSR20171059. [PMID: 29101242 PMCID: PMC5725615 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20171059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Revised: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Busulfan is an alkane sulphonate currently used as an anticancer drug and to prepare azoospermic animal models, because it selectively destroys differentiated spermatogonia in the testes. However, few studies have focussed on the exact effects of busulfan treatment on the epididymis currently. The present study assessed the effect of busulfan on epididymal morphology and the blood-epididymis barrier in mice. We treated mice with a single injection of busulfan and detected the effect at different time points. We showed that busulfan was toxic to the morphological structure and function of the epididymis. Furthermore, busulfan treatment down-regulated the epididymal expression of vimentin and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) at the mRNA and protein levels. In addition, there was an increase in total androgen receptor (AR) levels, whereas the estrogen receptor-α (ER-α) levels were reduced, both in the caput and cauda regions after busulfan treatment, which may be secondary to the testicular damage. In conclusion, our study describes the effects of busulfan administration on the mouse epididymis and also provides a potential understanding of male infertility arising from chemotherapy-related defects in the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Fang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ke Ni
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yiting Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- Family Planning Research Institute, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jin Shang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoke Zhang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shiliang Shen
- Department of Pathology, Zhong Shen Bioscience Inc., Wuhan, China
| | - Chengliang Xiong
- Family Planning Research Institute, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
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28
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Ghouili F, Martin LJ. Cooperative regulation of Gja1 expression by members of the AP-1 family cJun and cFos in TM3 Leydig and TM4 Sertoli cells. Gene 2017; 635:24-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2017.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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29
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Lee KH. Effects of Exposure to Estradiol Benzoate or Flutamide at the Weaning Age on Expression of Connexins in the Caudal Epididymis of Adult Rat. Dev Reprod 2016; 20:349-357. [PMID: 28144639 PMCID: PMC5270609 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2016.20.4.349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The present research was chiefly designed to determine the effect of the treatment of estrogenic
agonist, estradiol benzoate (EB), or antiandrogenic compound, flutamide (Flu), at the weaning age on
the expression of connexin (Cx) isoforms in the caudal epididymis of adult male
rat. Animals were subcutaneously administrated with a single shot of either EB at a low-dose (0.015
µg of EB/kg body weight (BW)) or a high-dose (1.5 µg of EB/kg BW) or Flu at a low-dose (500 µg of
EB/kg BW) or a high-dose (5 mg of EB/kg BW). Expressional changes of Cx isoforms in
the adult caudal epididymis were examined by quantitative real-time PCR analysis. The treatment of a
low-dose EB caused significant increases of Cx30.3, Cx31,
Cx32, and Cx43 transcript levels but reduction of
Cx31.1, Cx37, and Cx45 expression. Exposure
to a high-dose EB resulted in very close responses observed in a low-dose EB treatment, except no
significant expressional change of Cx37 and a significant induction of
Cx40. Expression of all Cx isoforms, except
Cx45, was significantly increased by a low-dose Flu treatment. Expressional
increases of all Cx isoforms were detected by a high-dose Flu treatment. The
current study demonstrates that a single exposure to estrogenic or antiandrogenic compound during
the early postnatal developmental period is sufficient to disrupt normal expression of
Cx isoforms in the adult caudal epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Ho Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 301-746, Korea
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30
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The Protective Effect of Selenium on Chronic Zearalenone-Induced Reproductive System Damage in Male Mice. Molecules 2016; 21:molecules21121687. [PMID: 27941626 PMCID: PMC6274099 DOI: 10.3390/molecules21121687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Revised: 12/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to explore the protective effect of selenium (Se) on chronic zearalenone (ZEN)-induced reproductive system damage in male mice and the possible protective molecular mechanism against this. The chronic ZEN-induced injury mouse model was established with the continuous intragastric administration of 40 mg/kg body mass (B.M.) ZEN for 28 days. Then, interventions with different doses (0.1, 0.2, and 0.4 mg/kg B.M.) of Se were conducted on mice to analyse the changes in organ indexes of epididymis and testis, antioxidant capability of testis, serum level of testosterone, sperm concentration and motility parameters, and the expression levels of apoptosis-associated genes and blood testis barrier- (BTB) related genes. Our results showed that Se could greatly improve the ZEN-induced decrease of epididymis indexes and testis indexes. Results also showed that the decrease in sperm concentration, sperm normality rate, and sperm motility parameters, including percentage of motile sperm (motile), tropism percentage (progressive) and sperm average path velocity (VAP), caused by ZEN were elevated upon administration of the higher dose (0.4 mg/kg) and intermediate dose (0.2 mg/kg) of Se. Selenium also significantly reduced the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) but enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in the testis tissue. Further research demonstrated that ZEN increased the level of mRNA expression of BCL2-associated X protein (Bax) and caspase 3 (Casp3), decreased the level of mRNA expression of B cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (Bcl2), vimentin (Vim) and cadherin 2 (Cdh2), whereas the co-administration of Se reversed these gene expression levels. Our results indicated that high levels of Se could protect against reproductive system damage in male mice caused by ZEN and the mechanism might such be that Se improved mice antioxidant ability, inhibited reproductive cell apoptosis, and increased the decrease of BTB integrity-related genes caused by ZEN.
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31
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Zhang J, Jin S, Zhao J, Li H. Effect of dibutyl phthalate on expression of connexin 43 and testosterone production of leydig cells in adult rats. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2016; 47:131-135. [PMID: 27676332 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2016.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Revised: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the adverse effect of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) on Leydig cells and its mechanism related to gap junction, Leydig cells isolated from adult rats were treated with 0.1% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), 50mg/L DBP, 50mg/L DBP+10μM prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and 40μM flutamide respectively. Radioimmunoassay, semi-quantitative RT-PCR, immunofluorescence and Western blot were applied to determine the expression of testosterone and Connexin 43 (Cx43) in Leydig cells. The expression of testosterone and Cx43 were both decreased in DBP group (P<0.05). While Cx43 was up-regulated after administered to PGE2, there was no significant change in testosterone. However, testosterone was down-regulated with a significant decrease of Cx43 in flutamide group. The results indicated that the inhibitory effect of DBP on testosterone production was not through the down-regulation of Cx43. On the contrary, the change of testosterone can influence the expression of Cx43 in Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Department of Environmental Hygiene, School of Public Health, Beihua University, Jilin 132013, China
| | - Shuguang Jin
- Department of Environmental Hygiene, School of Public Health, Beihua University, Jilin 132013, China
| | - Jinchang Zhao
- Department of Environmental Hygiene, School of Public Health, Beihua University, Jilin 132013, China
| | - Huan Li
- Department of Environmental Hygiene, School of Public Health, Beihua University, Jilin 132013, China.
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32
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Adam C, Cyr DG. Role of Specificity Protein-1 and Activating Protein-2 Transcription Factors in the Regulation of the Gap Junction Protein Beta-2 Gene in the Epididymis of the Rat. Biol Reprod 2016; 94:120. [PMID: 27053364 PMCID: PMC6702783 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.133702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In prepubertal rats, connexin 26 (GJB2) is expressed between adjacent columnar cells of the epididymis. At 28 days of age, when columnar cells differentiate into adult epithelial cell types, Gjb2 mRNA levels decrease to barely detectable levels. There is no information on the regulation of GJB2 in the epididymis. The present study characterized regulation of the Gjb2 gene promoter in the epididymis. A single transcription start site at position −3829 bp relative to the ATG was identified. Computational analysis revealed several TFAP2A, SP1, and KLF4 putative binding sites. A 1.5-kb fragment of the Gjb2 promoter was cloned into a vector containing a luciferase reporter gene. Transfection of the construct into immortalized rat caput epididymal (RCE-1) cells indicated that the promoter contained sufficient information to drive expression of the reporter gene. Deletion constructs showed that the basal activity of the promoter resides in the first −230 bp of the transcriptional start site. Two response elements necessary for GJB2 expression were identified: an overlapping TFAP2A/SP1 site (−136 to −126 bp) and an SP1 site (−50 bp). Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and electrophoretic mobility shift assays confirmed that SP1 and TFAP2A were bound to the promoter. ChIP analysis of chromatin from young and pubertal rats indicated that TFAP2A and SP1 binding decreased with age. SP1 and TFAP2A knockdown indicated that SP1 is necessary for Gjb2 expression. DNA methylation did not appear to be involved in the regulation of Gjb2 expression. Results indicate that SP1 and TFAP2A regulate Gjb2 promoter activity during epididymal differentiation in rat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Adam
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Québec, Canada
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Lee KH. Modification of Gene Expression of Connexins in the Rat Corpus Epididymis by Estradiol Benzoate or Flutamide Exposure at the Early Neonatal Age. Dev Reprod 2016; 19:69-77. [PMID: 27004263 PMCID: PMC4801050 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2015.19.2.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Cell-cell direct communication through channel-forming molecules, connexin (Cx), is essential for a tissue to exchange signaling molecules between neighboring cells and establish unique functional characteristics during postnatal development. The corpus epididymis is a well-known androgen-responsive tissue and involves in proper sperm maturation. In the present research, it was attempted to determine if expression of Cx isoforms in the corpus epididymis in the adult is modulated by exposure to estrogenic or anti-androgenic compound during the early postnatal period. The neonatal male rats at 7 days of age were subcutaneously injected by estradiol benzoate (EB) at low-dose (0.015 mg/kg body weight) or high-dose (1.5 mg/kg body weight) or flutamide (Flu) at low-dose (500 mg/kg body weight) or high-dose (50 mg/kg body weight). The corpus epididymis collected at 4 months of age was subjected to evaluate expressional changes of Cx isoforms by quantitative real-time PCR. Treatment of low-dose EB resulted in increases of Cx32, Cx37, and Cx45 transcript levels, while exposure to high-dose EB decreased expression of Cx26, Cx30.3, Cx31, Cx31.1, Cx32, Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45. Treatments of Flu caused significant decreases of expression of all examined Cx isoforms, except Cx37 and Cx43 shown no expressional change with high-dose Flu treatment. These findings imply that expression of most Cx isoforms present in the corpus epididymis would be transcriptionally regulated by actions of androgen and/or estrogen during postnatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Ho Lee
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 301-746, Korea
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34
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Lee SK, Lee KH. Aberrant Expression of Connexin Isoforms in the Corpus Epididymis of the Adult Rat by Exposure to Estradiol Benzoate or Flutamide at the Weaning Age. Dev Reprod 2016; 19:217-26. [PMID: 26973973 PMCID: PMC4786483 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2015.19.4.217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
A proper development of the epididymis during the early postnatal development is required for successful fertility in the adult male. Direct cell-cell communication via connexin (Cx) molecules is a common way of cellular interactions to achieve normal development of a given tissue consisting of different cell types. The present research was attempted to determine the effect of exogenous exposure to estrogenic agonist or antiandrogen at the weaning age on expression of Cx isoforms in the adult corpus epididymis. Male rats were subcutaneously administrated with estradiol benzoate (EB) or flutamide (Flu) at the weaning age. The tissue was collected at 4 months of age. Expressional levels of Cx isoforms were determined by a quantitative real-time PCR. Statistical comparison showed significant increases of Cxs31, 32, 37, 40, and 43 transcript amounts by a treatment of 0.015 mg of EB /kg body weight (BW). A treatment of 1.5 μg of EB /kg BW caused a significant decrease of Cx43 gene expression but increases of Cxs26, 31, 32, 37, and 40 transcript levels. Exposure to 500 mg of Flu/kg BW induced an increase of Cx37 expression but significant decreases of Cxs43 and 45 mRNA levels. Expression of Cx37 was increased by a treatment of 5 mg of Flu/kg BW, while transcript levels of Cxs26, 30.3, 31, 31.1, 32, and 43 were significantly decreased by same treatment. These results demonstrate that exposure to steroidal compounds at the early developmental age alters expression of Cx isoforms in the adult corpus epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong-Kyu Lee
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 301-746, Korea
| | - Ki-Ho Lee
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 301-746, Korea
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35
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Tyrosine kinase-mediated axial motility of basal cells revealed by intravital imaging. Nat Commun 2016; 7:10666. [PMID: 26868824 PMCID: PMC4754344 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial cells are generally considered to be static relative to their neighbours. Basal cells in pseudostratified epithelia display a single long cytoplasmic process that can cross the tight junction barrier to reach the lumen. Using in vivo microscopy to visualize the epididymis, a model system for the study of pseudostratified epithelia, we report here the surprising discovery that these basal cell projections--which we call axiopodia--periodically extend and retract over time. We found that axiopodia extensions and retractions follow an oscillatory pattern. This movement, which we refer to as periodic axial motility (PAM), is controlled by c-Src and MEK1/2-ERK1/2. Therapeutic inhibition of tyrosine kinase activity induces a retraction of these projections. Such unexpected cell motility may reflect a novel mechanism by which specialized epithelial cells sample the luminal environment.
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36
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Kidder GM, Cyr DG. Roles of connexins in testis development and spermatogenesis. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 50:22-30. [PMID: 26780117 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2015.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The development and differentiation of cells involved in spermatogenesis requires highly regulated and coordinated interactions between cells. Intercellular communication, particularly via connexin43 (Cx43) gap junctions, plays a critical role in the development of germ cells during fetal development and during spermatogenesis in the adult. Loss of Cx43 in the fetus results in a decreased number of germ cells, while the loss of Cx43 in the adult Sertoli cells results in complete inhibition of spermatogenesis. Connexins 26, 32, 33, 36, 45, 46 and 50 have also been localized to specific compartments of the testis in various mammals. Loss of Cx46 is associated with an increase in germ cell apoptosis and loss of the integrity of the blood-testis barrier, while loss of other connexins appears to have more subtle effects within the seminiferous tubule. Outside the seminiferous tubule, the interstitial Leydig cells express connexins 36 and 45 along with Cx43; deletion of the latter connexin did not reveal it to be crucial for steroidogenesis or for the development and differentiation of Leydig cells. In contrast, loss of Cx43 from Sertoli cells results in Leydig cell hyperplasia, suggesting important cross-talk between Sertoli and Leydig cells. In the epididymis connexins 26, 30.3, Cx31.1, 32, and 43 have been identified and differentiation of the epithelium is associated with dramatic changes in their expression. Decreased expression of Cx43 results in decreased sperm motility, a function acquired by spermatozoa during epididymal transit. Clearly, intercellular gap junctional communication within the testis and epididymis represents a critical aspect of male reproductive function and fertility. The implications of this mode of intercellular communication for male fertility remains a poorly understood but important facet of male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald M Kidder
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada.
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, University of Québec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, Québec H7V 1B7, Canada
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Hayrabedyan S, Todorova K, Jabeen A, Metodieva G, Toshkov S, Metodiev MV, Mincheff M, Fernández N. Sertoli cells have a functional NALP3 inflammasome that can modulate autophagy and cytokine production. Sci Rep 2016; 6:18896. [PMID: 26744177 PMCID: PMC4705529 DOI: 10.1038/srep18896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells, can function as non-professional tolerogenic antigen-presenting cells, and sustain the blood-testis barrier formed by their tight junctions. The NOD-like receptor family members and the NALP3 inflammasome play a key role in pro-inflammatory innate immunity signalling pathways. Limited data exist on NOD1 and NOD2 expression in human and mouse Sertoli cells. Currently, there is no data on inflammasome expression or function in Sertoli cells. We found that in primary pre-pubertal Sertoli cells and in adult Sertoli line, TLR4\NOD1 and NOD2 crosstalk converged in NFκB activation and elicited a NALP3 activation, leading to de novo synthesis and inflammasome priming. This led to caspase-1 activation and IL-1β secretion. We demonstrated this process was controlled by mechanisms linked to autophagy. NOD1 promoted pro-IL-1β restriction and autophagosome maturation arrest, while NOD2 promoted caspase-1 activation, IL-1β secretion and autophagy maturation. NALP3 modulated NOD1 and pro-IL-1β expression, while NOD2 inversely promoted IL-1β. This study is proof of concept that Sertoli cells, upon specific stimulation, could participate in male infertility pathogenesis via inflammatory cytokine induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soren Hayrabedyan
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Laboratory of Reproductive Omics Technologies, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Krassimira Todorova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Laboratory of Reproductive Omics Technologies, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Asma Jabeen
- School of Biological Sciences, Wivenhoe Park, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Gergana Metodieva
- School of Biological Sciences, Wivenhoe Park, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Stavri Toshkov
- Cellular and Gene Therapy Ward, National Specialized Haematology Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Metodi V Metodiev
- School of Biological Sciences, Wivenhoe Park, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Milcho Mincheff
- Cellular and Gene Therapy Ward, National Specialized Haematology Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Nelson Fernández
- School of Biological Sciences, Wivenhoe Park, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
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Mosaed S, Jacobsen BH, Lin KY. Case report: imaging and treatment of ophthalmic manifestations in oculodentodigital dysplasia. BMC Ophthalmol 2016; 16:5. [PMID: 26743931 PMCID: PMC4705587 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-015-0173-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diagnostic and surgical management of severe chronic angle- closure glaucoma secondary to ciliary body cysts can be difficult to manage in a patient with oculodentodigital dysplasia. Case presentation A 6-year old girl with oculodentodigital dysplasia, with progressive chronic angle- closure glaucoma secondary to ciliary body cysts presented to our clinic. The initial examination revealed counting fingers vision in the left eye. Intraocular pressure (IOP), as assessed by tonopen, was 31 mm Hg. Ultrasound biomicroscopy revealed ciliary body cysts in the left eye, and gonioscopy confirmed chronic angle closure. A tube shunt was placed to control the elevated IOP. A year after her tube shunt placement in the left eye, ultrasound biomiscropy was performed on her right eye and showed no ciliary body cysts. Gonioscopy in the right eye revealed an open angle to the ciliary body band. Subsequent serial gonioscopy every 3 months showed gradual narrowing of the right eye angle and finally three-and-a-half years after tube placement of the left eye, her right eye IOP became uncontrolled with medications alone and a tube shunt was similarly placed in the right eye. Intraoperative ultrasound biomicroscopy performed at the time of the right eye tube shunt revealed extensive ciliary body cysts in the right eye. Her IOP in both eyes have been well controlled since the placement of tube shunts. Conclusions This is one of the first reported cases of severe chronic angle- closure glaucoma secondary to ciliary body cysts in a patient with oculodentodigital dysplasia. We believe that early screening for ciliary body cysts is important in patients with oculodentodigital dysplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh Mosaed
- The Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, 850 Health Sciences Rd, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
| | - Bradley H Jacobsen
- University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, 252 Irvine Hall, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
| | - Ken Young Lin
- The Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, 850 Health Sciences Rd, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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Mandon M, Hermo L, Cyr DG. Isolated Rat Epididymal Basal Cells Share Common Properties with Adult Stem Cells. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:115. [PMID: 26400399 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.133967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
There is little information on the function of epididymal basal cells. These cells secrete prostaglandins, can metabolize radical oxygen species, and have apical projections that are components of the blood-epididymis barrier. The objective of this study was to develop a reproducible protocol to isolate rat epididymal basal cells and to characterize their function by gene expression profiling. Integrin-alpha6 was used to isolate a highly purified population of basal cells. Microarray analysis indicated that expression levels of 552 genes were enriched in basal cells relative to other cell types. Among these genes, 45 were expressed at levels of 5-fold or greater. These highly expressed genes coded for proteins implicated in cell adhesion, cytoskeletal function, ion transport, cellular signaling, and epidermal function, and included proteases and antiproteases, signal transduction, and transcription factors. Several highly expressed genes have been reported in adult stem cells, suggesting that basal cells may represent an epididymal stem cell population. A basal cell culture was established that showed that these basal cells can differentiate in vitro from keratin (KRT) 5-positive cells to cells that express KRT8 and connexin 26, a marker of columnar cells. These data provide novel information on epididymal basal cell gene expression and suggest that these cells can act as adult stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Mandon
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Louis Hermo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Quebec, Canada Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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40
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Mahi N, Kumar A, Jaggi AS, Singh N, Dhawan R. Possible role of pannexin 1/P2x7 purinoceptor in neuroprotective mechanism of ischemic postconditioning in mice. J Surg Res 2015; 196:190-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2015.02.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2014] [Revised: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Lee KH. Expressional Modulation of Connexin Isoforms in the Initial Segment of Male Rat treated with Estradiol Benzoate or Flutamide. Dev Reprod 2015. [PMID: 25949200 PMCID: PMC4415647 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2014.18.4.293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Direct cell-cell communication through connexin (Cx) complexes is a way to achieve functional accordance of cells within a tissue or an organ. The initial segment (IS), a part of the epididymis, plays important roles in sperm maturation. Steroid hormones influence on expression of a number of genes in the IS of adult animals. However, developmental effect of sex hormones on the gene expression in the IS has not been examined. In this study, estradiol benzoate (EB, an estrogen agonist) or flutamide (Flu, an andevrepogen antagonist) was exogenously administrated at 1 week of postnatal age, and expressional changes of Cx genes in the IS were determined at 4 months of age by a quantitative real-time PCR analysis. Treatment of EB at 0.015 μg/kg body weight (BW) increased expression of Cx30.3, 31.1, and 43 genes. However, treatment of 1.5 μg EB/kg BW resulted in expressional decreases of Cx31, 32, and 45 genes and caused increases of Cx30.3 and 43 gene expression. Significant decreases of Cx31, 31.1, 32, 37, and 45 gene expression were detected with a treatment of 500 μg Flu/kg BW, while expression of Cx43 gene was significantly increased with a treatment of 500 μg Flu/kg BW. A treatment of 50 mg Flu/kg BW led to significant increases of Cx30.3, 32, 37, 40, and 43 gene expression. These findings imply that exogenous exposure of steroidal hormones during the early developmental period would result in aberrant expression of Cx genes in the adult IS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Ho Lee
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 301-746, Korea
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42
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Lee KH. Expressional Modulation of Connexin Isoforms in the Initial Segment of Male Rat treated with Estradiol Benzoate or Flutamide. Dev Reprod 2015; 18:293-300. [PMID: 25949200 DOI: 10.12717/devrep.2014.18.4.293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Revised: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Direct cell-cell communication through connexin (Cx) complexes is a way to achieve functional accordance of cells within a tissue or an organ. The initial segment (IS), a part of the epididymis, plays important roles in sperm maturation. Steroid hormones influence on expression of a number of genes in the IS of adult animals. However, developmental effect of sex hormones on the gene expression in the IS has not been examined. In this study, estradiol benzoate (EB, an estrogen agonist) or flutamide (Flu, an andevrepogen antagonist) was exogenously administrated at 1 week of postnatal age, and expressional changes of Cx genes in the IS were determined at 4 months of age by a quantitative real-time PCR analysis. Treatment of EB at 0.015 μg/kg body weight (BW) increased expression of Cx30.3, 31.1, and 43 genes. However, treatment of 1.5 μg EB/kg BW resulted in expressional decreases of Cx31, 32, and 45 genes and caused increases of Cx30.3 and 43 gene expression. Significant decreases of Cx31, 31.1, 32, 37, and 45 gene expression were detected with a treatment of 500 μg Flu/kg BW, while expression of Cx43 gene was significantly increased with a treatment of 500 μg Flu/kg BW. A treatment of 50 mg Flu/kg BW led to significant increases of Cx30.3, 32, 37, 40, and 43 gene expression. These findings imply that exogenous exposure of steroidal hormones during the early developmental period would result in aberrant expression of Cx genes in the adult IS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Ho Lee
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 301-746, Korea
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43
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Kim B, Roy J, Shum WWC, Da Silva N, Breton S. Role of testicular luminal factors on Basal cell elongation and proliferation in the mouse epididymis. Biol Reprod 2014; 92:9. [PMID: 25411392 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.123943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A subset of basal cells (BCs) in the initial segment (IS) of the mouse epididymis has a slender body projection between adjacent epithelial cells. We show here that these projections occasionally cross the apical tight junctions and are in contact with the luminal environment. Luminal testicular factors are critical for the establishment of the IS epithelium, and we investigated their role in the regulation of this luminal sensing property. Efferent duct ligation (EDL) was performed to block luminal flow from the testis without affecting blood flow. Cytokeratin 5 (KRT5) labeling showed a time-dependent reduction of the percentage of BCs with intercellular projections from 1 to 5 days after EDL, compared to controls. Double labeling for caspase-3 and KRT5 showed that a subset of BCs undergoes apoptosis 1 day after EDL. Ki67/KRT5 double labeling showed a low rate of BC proliferation under basal conditions. However, EDL induced a marked increase in the proliferation rate of a subset of BCs 2 days after EDL. A 2-wk treatment with the androgen receptor antagonist flutamide did not affect the number of BCs with intercellular projections, but reduced BC proliferation. Flutamide treatment also reduced the increase in BC proliferation induced 2 days after EDL. We conclude that, in the adult mouse IS, 1) luminal testicular factors play an important role in the ability of BCs to extend their body projection towards the lumen, and are essential for the survival of a subset of BCs; 2) androgens play an important role in the proliferation of some of the BCs that survive the initial insult induced by EDL; and 3) the formation and elongation of BC intercellular projections do not depend on androgens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bongki Kim
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jeremy Roy
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Winnie W C Shum
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nicolas Da Silva
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Abstract
Pannexins (PANXs) are channel-forming proteins implicated in cellular communication through the secretion of biomolecules, such as ATP and glutamate. PANX1 and PANX3 are expressed in the male rat reproductive tract and their levels are regulated by androgens in the epididymis. There is currently no information on the regulation of the Panx1 promoter. The objective of the present study was to characterize the Panx1 promoter in order to understand its regulation in the epididymis. RNA ligase-mediated rapid amplification of cDNA ends identified three transcriptional start sites, at positions -443, -429, and -393. In silico analysis revealed that transcription was initiated downstream of binding sites for CREB and ETV4 transcription factors, in a CpG island context. To determine the importance of this region in gene transactivation, a 2-kb fragment of the promoter was cloned into a vector containing a luciferase reporter gene. Deletion constructs indicated that the highest transactivation levels were achieved with shorter constructs (-973 to -346 and -550 to -346). Electrophoretic mobility shift assay and supershifts indicated that both transcription factors were able to bind to the promoter region. Chromatin immunoprecipitation using rat caput epididymis cells confirmed the binding of ETV4 and CREB on the Panx1 promoter. Site mutation of either the ETV4 or CREB binding site decreased the transactivation of the reporter gene. Previous studies indicated that orchidectomy increased epididymal PANX1 levels. Likewise, we observed an increase in both ETV4 and CREB in orchidectomized rats. These results indicate that ETV4 and cAMP response elements play a role in the transcriptional regulation of Panx1 in the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Dufresne
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Québec, Canada
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45
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Feswick A, Ings JS, Doyle MA, Bosker T, Munkittrick KR, Martyniuk CJ. Transcriptomics profiling and steroid production in mummichog (Fundulus heteroclitus) testes after treatment with 5α-dihydrotestosterone. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 203:106-19. [PMID: 24447443 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2013] [Revised: 12/20/2013] [Accepted: 01/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
5α-Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a potent androgen in mammals with multiple roles; however the physiological actions of DHT in male fishes are not well known. To address this knowledge gap, male mummichog (Fundulus heteroclitus) were continuously exposed to 0, 5, and 50 μg/L DHT for 21 days. Following exposure, testes were separated for histology, ex vivo incubation to measure steroidogenic capacity, and gene expression analyses (real-time PCR and microarray). DHT significantly decreased ex vivo 11-ketotestosterone (11KT) production in males exposed to 50 μg/L DHT but not 5 μg/L DHT, and DHT exposure did not affect ex vivo testosterone production. Histological examination revealed that the amount of interlobular and connective tissue present in the testes was increased in the 50 μg/L DHT treatment. Despite reductions in the production of 11KT, DHT did not affect the expression of targeted genes in the steroidogenic pathway such as steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (star), P450 side chain cleavage (cyp11a1) and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (hsd11b3). Microarray analysis in the testes of individuals from control and 50 μg/L DHT revealed that males exposed to 50 μg/L DHT showed regulated transcriptional sub-networks that were related to immunity, regulation of blood flow, lipids and xenobiotic clearance, suggesting that DHT may be involved in the physiological regulation of these processes in the fish testes. A second objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of measuring mRNA levels in tissues used for ex vivo steroid production by comparing RNA integrity and transcript levels in testes of both immediately flash frozen tissue and incubated tissue. There was no significant difference in RNA quality between the two time points, indicating RNA integrity can remain intact for at least 18 h in ex vivo assays, thereby providing a viable option for researchers assessing multi-level biological reproductive endpoints when limited tissue is available. While the gene expression levels of actb, efla, rps12, rps18, star, and hsd11b3 remained unchanged, esr2a (esrba), esr2b (esrbb) and cyp11a1 were significantly lower in incubated tissue compared to flash frozen tissue. Therefore caution must be used as the steady-state levels of select genes may change over time. This study improves our understanding of DHT action in the teleostean testis and generates new hypotheses regarding cell processes that are regulated by this underexplored and potent androgen.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Feswick
- Canadian Rivers Institute and Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick E2L 4L5, Canada
| | - J S Ings
- Canadian Rivers Institute and Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick E2L 4L5, Canada
| | - M A Doyle
- Canadian Rivers Institute and Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick E2L 4L5, Canada
| | - T Bosker
- Canadian Rivers Institute and Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick E2L 4L5, Canada
| | - K R Munkittrick
- Canadian Rivers Institute and Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick E2L 4L5, Canada
| | - C J Martyniuk
- Canadian Rivers Institute and Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick E2L 4L5, Canada.
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Xiao X, Mruk DD, Tang EI, Massarwa R, Mok KW, Li N, Wong CKC, Lee WM, Snapper SB, Shilo BZ, Schejter ED, Cheng CY. N-wasp is required for structural integrity of the blood-testis barrier. PLoS Genet 2014; 10:e1004447. [PMID: 24967734 PMCID: PMC4072540 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1004447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
During spermatogenesis, the blood-testis barrier (BTB) segregates the adluminal (apical) and basal compartments in the seminiferous epithelium, thereby creating a privileged adluminal environment that allows post-meiotic spermatid development to proceed without interference of the host immune system. A key feature of the BTB is its continuous remodeling within the Sertoli cells, the major somatic component of the seminiferous epithelium. This remodeling is necessary to allow the transport of germ cells towards the seminiferous tubule interior, while maintaining intact barrier properties. Here we demonstrate that the actin nucleation promoting factor Neuronal Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein (N-WASP) provides an essential function necessary for BTB restructuring, and for maintaining spermatogenesis. Our data suggests that the N-WASP-Arp2/3 actin polymerization machinery generates branched-actin arrays at an advanced stage of BTB remodeling. These arrays are proposed to mediate the restructuring process through endocytic recycling of BTB components. Disruption of N-WASP in Sertoli cells results in major structural abnormalities to the BTB, including mis-localization of critical junctional and cytoskeletal elements, and leads to disruption of barrier function. These impairments result in a complete arrest of spermatogenesis, underscoring the critical involvement of the somatic compartment of the seminiferous tubules in germ cell maturation. Mammalian spermatogenesis takes place within a sheltered environment, whereby somatic Sertoli cells protect and guide germ cells as they mature and differentiate. A key structure generated by the protective Sertoli cell epithelium is the blood-testis barrier (BTB), a composite of junctional and cytoskeletal elements, which prevents exposure of post-meiotic spermatids to the immune system. The BTB is a highly dynamic structure, which needs to be dismantled and rapidly rebuilt, in order to allow passage of maturing preleptotene spermatocytes, without compromising their isolation. Here we show that N-WASP, a conserved facilitator of formation of branched actin microfilament arrays, provides a function that is essential for maintenance of an intact BTB. Genetic disruption of N-WASP in mouse Sertoli cells leads to loss of BTB impermeability, resulting in a complete arrest of spermatogenesis at early and post-meiotic stages. Based on the localization patterns of key elements, we propose that branched-actin filaments participate in recycling of BTB materials to ensure the dynamic and efficient maintenance of this structure, one of a series of blood-tissue barriers that preserve privileged organ environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Xiao
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Dolores D. Mruk
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth I. Tang
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - R'ada Massarwa
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ka Wai Mok
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Nan Li
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Chris K. C. Wong
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Will M. Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Scott B. Snapper
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Ben-Zion Shilo
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Eyal D. Schejter
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- * E-mail: (EDS); (CYC)
| | - C. Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail: (EDS); (CYC)
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Cai C, Zhao D, Ma C, Zhang Y, Wu X, Wei G, He D. Connexin 43 expression in Sprague-Dawley rat seminiferous epithelium afterin uteroexposure to flutamide. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2014; 60:257-62. [DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2014.921738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Arrighi S. Are the basal cells of the mammalian epididymis still an enigma? Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 26:1061-71. [DOI: 10.1071/rd13301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Basal cells are present in the columnar pseudostratified epithelium covering the epididymis of all mammalian species, which regulates the microenvironment where the functionally incompetent germ cells produced by the testis are matured and stored. Striking novelties have come from investigations on epididymal basal cells in the past 30–40 years. In addition to an earlier hypothesised scavenger role for basal cells, linked to their proven extratubular origin and the expression of macrophage antigens, basal cells have been shown to be involved in cell–cell cross-talk, as well as functioning as luminal sensors to regulate the activity of principal and clear cells. Involvement of basal cells in the regulation of electrolyte and water transport by principal cells was hypothesised. This control is suggested to be mediated by the local formation of prostaglandins. Members of the aquaporin (AQP) and/or aquaglyceroporin family (AQP3, AQP7 and AQP8) are also specifically expressed in the rat epididymal basal cells. Transport of glycerol and glycerylphosphorylcholine from the epithelium of the epididymis to the lumen in relation to sperm maturation may be mediated by AQP. Most probably basal cells collaborate to the building up of the blood–epididymis barrier through cell adhesion molecules, implying an involvement in immune control exerted towards sperm cells, which are foreigners in the environment in which they were produced.
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Cai J, Wang C, Huang L, Chen M, Zuo Z. A Novel Effect of Polychlorinated Biphenyls: Impairment of the Tight Junctions in the Mouse Epididymis. Toxicol Sci 2013; 134:382-90. [DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kft106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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