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Hau RK, Wright SH, Cherrington NJ. In Vitro and In Vivo Models for Drug Transport Across the Blood-Testis Barrier. Drug Metab Dispos 2023; 51:1157-1168. [PMID: 37258305 PMCID: PMC10449102 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.123.001288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is a selectively permeable membrane barrier formed by adjacent Sertoli cells (SCs) in the seminiferous tubules of the testes that develops intercellular junctional complexes to protect developing germ cells from external pressures. However, due to this inherent defense mechanism, the seminiferous tubule lumen can act as a pharmacological sanctuary site for latent viruses (e.g., Ebola, Zika) and cancers (e.g., leukemia). Therefore, it is critical to identify and evaluate BTB carrier-mediated drug delivery pathways to successfully treat these viruses and cancers. Many drugs are unable to effectively cross cell membranes without assistance from carrier proteins like transporters because they are large, polar, and often carry a charge at physiologic pH. SCs express transporters that selectively permit endogenous compounds, such as carnitine or nucleosides, across the BTB to support normal physiologic activity, although reproductive toxicants can also use these pathways, thereby circumventing the BTB. Certain xenobiotics, including select cancer therapeutics, antivirals, contraceptives, and environmental toxicants, are known to accumulate within the male genital tract and cause testicular toxicity; however, the transport pathways by which these compounds circumvent the BTB are largely unknown. Consequently, there is a need to identify the clinically relevant BTB transport pathways in in vitro and in vivo BTB models that recapitulate human pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics for these xenobiotics. This review summarizes the various in vitro and in vivo models of the BTB reported in the literature and highlights the strengths and weaknesses of certain models for drug disposition studies. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Drug disposition to the testes is influenced by the physical, physiological, and immunological components of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). But many compounds are known to cross the BTB by transporters, resulting in pharmacological and/or toxicological effects in the testes. Therefore, models that assess drug transport across the human BTB must adequately account for these confounding factors. This review identifies and discusses the benefits and limitations of various in vitro and in vivo BTB models for preclinical drug disposition studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond K Hau
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, (R.K.H., N.J.C.) and College of Medicine, Department of Physiology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (S.H.W.)
| | - Stephen H Wright
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, (R.K.H., N.J.C.) and College of Medicine, Department of Physiology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (S.H.W.)
| | - Nathan J Cherrington
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, (R.K.H., N.J.C.) and College of Medicine, Department of Physiology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (S.H.W.)
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2
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Meng Z, Liu Y, Zhou J, Zheng B, Lv J. Drug transport across the blood-testis barrier. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:6412-6423. [PMID: 36247247 PMCID: PMC9556450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier transfers nutrients to spermatogenic tubules to ensure the normal physiological function of the testes. It also restricts the "entry and exit" of biological macromolecules in the testicular lumen and provides a unique microenvironment for spermatogenesis. This makes the testes a safe place for some viruses and tumors, as immune factors cannot function and drugs fail to reach therapeutic concentrations in the testes. This review aimed to describe the factors regulating the structure and physiological function of the blood-testis barrier. By understanding therapeutic mechanisms of action, drugs can be developed to function in the testicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixiang Meng
- Suzhou Dushu Lake Hospital (Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University)Suzhou 215124, China
| | - Yawei Liu
- Suzhou Dushu Lake Hospital (Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University)Suzhou 215124, China
| | - Jian Zhou
- Suzhou Dushu Lake Hospital (Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University)Suzhou 215124, China
| | - Bo Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical UniversitySuzhou 215002, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 211166, China
| | - Jinxing Lv
- Suzhou Dushu Lake Hospital (Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University)Suzhou 215124, China
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Wang L, Bu T, Wu X, Gao S, Li X, De Jesus AB, Wong CKC, Chen H, Chung NPY, Sun F, Cheng CY. Cell-Cell Interaction-Mediated Signaling in the Testis Induces Reproductive Dysfunction—Lesson from the Toxicant/Pharmaceutical Models. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040591. [PMID: 35203242 PMCID: PMC8869896 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence has shown that cell-cell interactions between testicular cells, in particular at the Sertoli cell-cell and Sertoli-germ cell interface, are crucial to support spermatogenesis. The unique ultrastructures that support cell-cell interactions in the testis are the basal ES (ectoplasmic specialization) and the apical ES. The basal ES is found between adjacent Sertoli cells near the basement membrane that also constitute the blood-testis barrier (BTB). The apical ES is restrictively expressed at the Sertoli-spermatid contact site in the apical (adluminal) compartment of the seminiferous epithelium. These ultrastructures are present in both rodent and human testes, but the majority of studies found in the literature were done in rodent testes. As such, our discussion herein, unless otherwise specified, is focused on studies in testes of adult rats. Studies have shown that the testicular cell-cell interactions crucial to support spermatogenesis are mediated through distinctive signaling proteins and pathways, most notably involving FAK, Akt1/2 and Cdc42 GTPase. Thus, manipulation of some of these signaling proteins, such as FAK, through the use of phosphomimetic mutants for overexpression in Sertoli cell epithelium in vitro or in the testis in vivo, making FAK either constitutively active or inactive, we can modify the outcome of spermatogenesis. For instance, using the toxicant-induced Sertoli cell or testis injury in rats as study models, we can either block or rescue toxicant-induced infertility through overexpression of p-FAK-Y397 or p-FAK-Y407 (and their mutants), including the use of specific activator(s) of the involved signaling proteins against pAkt1/2. These findings thus illustrate that a potential therapeutic approach can be developed to manage toxicant-induced male reproductive dysfunction. In this review, we critically evaluate these recent findings, highlighting the direction for future investigations by bringing the laboratory-based research through a translation path to clinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Wang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Tiao Bu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Sheng Gao
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Xinyao Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | | | - Chris K. C. Wong
- Department of Biology, Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Hao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Nancy P. Y. Chung
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (C.Y.C.)
| | - C. Yan Cheng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (C.Y.C.)
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Rato L, Sousa ACA. The Impact of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals in Male Fertility: Focus on the Action of Obesogens. J Xenobiot 2021; 11:163-196. [PMID: 34940512 PMCID: PMC8709303 DOI: 10.3390/jox11040012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The current scenario of male infertility is not yet fully elucidated; however, there is increasing evidence that it is associated with the widespread exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), and in particular to obesogens. These compounds interfere with hormones involved in the regulation of metabolism and are associated with weight gain, being also able to change the functioning of the male reproductive axis and, consequently, the testicular physiology and metabolism that are pivotal for spermatogenesis. The disruption of these tightly regulated metabolic pathways leads to adverse reproductive outcomes. The permanent exposure to obesogens has raised serious health concerns. Evidence suggests that obesogens are one of the leading causes of the marked decline of male fertility and key players in shaping the future health outcomes not only for those who are directly exposed but also for upcoming generations. In addition to the changes that lead to inefficient functioning of the male gametes, obesogens induce alterations that are “imprinted” on the genes of the male gametes, establishing a link between generations and contributing to the transmission of defects. Unveiling the molecular mechanisms by which obesogens induce toxicity that may end-up in epigenetic modifications is imperative. This review describes and discusses the suggested molecular targets and potential mechanisms for obesogenic–disrupting chemicals and the subsequent effects on male reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís Rato
- Health School of the Polytechnic Institute of Guarda, 6300-035 Guarda, Portugal
- Correspondence: (L.R.); (A.C.A.S.)
| | - Ana C. A. Sousa
- Department of Biology, School of Science and Technology, University of Évora, 7006-554 Évora, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), University of Évora, 7000-671 Évora, Portugal
- Correspondence: (L.R.); (A.C.A.S.)
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Cen C, Wang F, Xiong K, Jiang L, Hou X. Protective effects of Coridius chinensis extracts on rat reproductive damage induced by manganese. Andrologia 2021; 54:e14326. [PMID: 34820869 PMCID: PMC9285684 DOI: 10.1111/and.14326] [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: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Manganese (Mn2+ ) is an environmental pollutant, and testis is one of the main target organs. Coridius chinensis (C. chinensis), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been shown widely used in treating various kinds of pain, nephropathy and erectile dysfunction. In our recent study, we found that Mn2+ exposure caused testicular injury could be rescued in part by the antioxidant activity of C. chinensis extracts (CcE). However, there is dearth of extensive knowledge on the therapeutic effects of C. chinensis on manganese-induced reproductive toxicity. In the present study, Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were administered manganese chloride alone or co-treated with CcE for 30 consecutive days. Results indicated that C. chinensis mediated suppression of spermatogenic dysfunction, and the number of apoptotic cells was significantly decreased in CcE-treated groups. Furthermore, the disintegrated testicular ultrastructural structure caused by Mn2+ was partially repaired in CcE-treated groups. C. chinensis significantly inhibited Mn2+ -induced decline in biomarkers of blood-testis barrier (BTB) including occludin, claudin1, zonula occludens-1 and junctional adhesion molecule 1, whereas it decreased the expression of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and c-Src. This study demonstrated that c-Src and FAK might be involved in the repair of Mn2+ -induced testicular injury by C. chinensis, but further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changhuo Cen
- Department of Cell Biology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Fengyue Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Keyi Xiong
- Department of Cell Biology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Lin Jiang
- Department of Cell Biology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Xiaohui Hou
- Department of Cell Biology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
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Horri E, Esmaeilnejad Moghadam A, Talebpour Amiri F, Ebrahimzadeh MA. Protective effect of Feijoa sellowianan fruit on testicular toxicity-induced by cadmium chloride. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13926. [PMID: 33355948 DOI: 10.1111/and.13926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the protective potential of Feijoa fruit extract on cadmium chloride (CdCl2 )-induced testicular injury and pituitary-gonadal axis. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: (a) control (normal saline, orally), (b) cadmium chloride (0.1 mg/kg, single dose, intraperitoneally), (c) Feijoa fruit extract (400 mg/kg, orally for 30 consecutive days) and (d) CdCl2 + Feijoa fruit extract. One day after receiving the last medicine, the LH, FSH, prolactin and testosterone concentration were assayed. Also, sperm parameters and tissue structure of the testis were evaluated. Administration of Feijoa fruit extract after CdCl2 injection in rats ameliorated sperm parameters such as sperm count, morphology, motility and sperm viability, increased levels of LH, FSH, prolactin and testosterone and improved testicular histology. According to the results of this study, it was shown that Feijoa can reduce the destructive side effects of CdCl2 on testicular tissue and sex hormones of the pituitary-gonadal pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elahe Horri
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Amir Esmaeilnejad Moghadam
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Talebpour Amiri
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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Fang Y, Xiang Y, Lu X, Dong X, Zhang J, Zhong S. Epigenetic dysregulation of Mdr1b in the blood-testis barrier contributes to dyszoospermia in mice exposed to cadmium. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2020; 190:110142. [PMID: 31911389 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.110142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) has been reported to induce reproductive toxicity. Recent study indicated that aberrant epigenetic regulation of Multidrug resistance 1b (Mdr1b) causes xenobiotic efflux failure at the blood-testis barrier (BTB). However, whether Mdr1b dysregulation is involved in Cd-mediated dyszoospermia and the underlying mechanism remain unknown. In this study, mice were intragastrically administered 0 or 2.5 mg/kg CdCl2 every other day for 2 months to investigate changes in spermatogenesis and epigenetic regulation of Mdr1b. Mouse Leydig cells TM3 were cultured to detect Mdr1b expression localization. We found that the Cd group revealed BTB disruption concomitant with obvious sperm abnormity and dynamic impairment. Hypermethylation and decreased nuclear factor Ya (Nfya) recruitment to the Mdr1b promoter were correlated with low sperm motility in response to Cd. In conclusion, these findings provide in vivo evidence that epigenetic dysregulation of Mdr1b in the BTB is a potential cause of dyszoospermia upon Cd exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Fang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Ying Xiang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xing Lu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Biodiversity Conservation and Utilization of Ministry of Agriculture, Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan, 430223, Hubei, China.
| | - Xin Dong
- Department of Medical Genetics, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Jiexin Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Shan Zhong
- Department of Medical Genetics, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China; Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
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Wang Y, Ni C, Li X, Lin Z, Zhu Q, Li L, Ge RS. Phthalate-Induced Fetal Leydig Cell Dysfunction Mediates Male Reproductive Tract Anomalies. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:1309. [PMID: 31780936 PMCID: PMC6851233 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Male fetal Leydig cells in the testis secrete androgen and insulin-like 3, determining the sexual differentiation. The abnormal development of fetal Leydig cells could lead to the reduction of androgen and insulin-like 3, thus causing the male reproductive tract anomalies in male neonates, including cryptorchidism and hypospadias. Environmental pollutants, such as phthalic acid esters (phthalates), can perturb the development and differentiated function of Leydig cells, thereby contributing to the reproductive toxicity in the male. Here, we review the epidemiological studies in humans and experimental investigations in rodents of various phthalates. Most of phthalates disturb the expression of various genes encoded for steroidogenesis-related proteins and insulin-like 3 in fetal Leydig cells and the dose-additive effects are exerted after exposure in a mixture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chaobo Ni
- Department of Anesthesiology The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoheng Li
- Department of Anesthesiology The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhenkun Lin
- Center of Scientific Research, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qiqi Zhu
- Center of Scientific Research, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Linxi Li
- Center of Scientific Research, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Center of Scientific Research, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Jin M, Lou J, Yu H, Miao M, Wang G, Ai H, Huang Y, Han S, Han D, Yu G. Exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin promotes inflammation in mouse testes: The critical role of Klotho in Sertoli cells. Toxicol Lett 2018; 295:134-143. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2018.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 06/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Liu L, Chang X, Zhang Y, Wu C, Li R, Tang L, Zhou Z. Fluorochloridone induces primary cultured Sertoli cells apoptosis: Involvement of ROS and intracellular calcium ions-mediated ERK1/2 activation. Toxicol In Vitro 2017; 47:228-237. [PMID: 29248592 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2017.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Revised: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fluorochloridone (FLC) is a widely used pyrrolidone selective herbicide and reported to induce testis injuries in male rats, but the underlying mechanism is largely unknown. In the present study, primary-cultured Sertoli cells were exposed to FLC at the concentration of 0-10.00μM to study the mechanism of FLC-induced apoptosis. The roles of ROS, intracellular calcium, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and ERK1/2 were looked at with ROS scavenger N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), intracellular calcium chelator BAPTA-AM, ER calcium depleting agent thapsigargin (TG), and ERK1/2 inhibitor U0126, respectively. FLC induced dose-dependent apoptosis increase as well as the elevation in levels of ROS, intracellular calcium, and ERK1/2 activation. FLC treatment led to constantly increasing apoptotic rates and ERK1/2 activation over time, while inversed-V shaped change tendencies of ROS and intracellular calcium levels were observed. FLC-induced ROS generation disrupted the intracellular calcium homeostasis by attacking the ER, and the elevated intracellular calcium levels resulted in ERK1/2 over-phosphorylation and consequently promoted Sertoli cell apoptosis. Taken together, ROS and intracellular calcium-mediated ERK1/2 activation led to FLC-induced Sertoli cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luqing Liu
- School of Public Health/MOE Key Laboratory for Public Health Safety/Collaborative Innovation Center of Social Risks Governance in Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiuli Chang
- School of Public Health/MOE Key Laboratory for Public Health Safety/Collaborative Innovation Center of Social Risks Governance in Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yubin Zhang
- School of Public Health/MOE Key Laboratory for Public Health Safety/Collaborative Innovation Center of Social Risks Governance in Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Chunhua Wu
- School of Public Health/MOE Key Laboratory for Public Health Safety/Collaborative Innovation Center of Social Risks Governance in Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Rui Li
- School of Public Health/MOE Key Laboratory for Public Health Safety/Collaborative Innovation Center of Social Risks Governance in Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Shanghai Institute for Food and Drug Control, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Liming Tang
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Shanghai Institute for Food and Drug Control, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zhijun Zhou
- School of Public Health/MOE Key Laboratory for Public Health Safety/Collaborative Innovation Center of Social Risks Governance in Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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11
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Male reproductive toxicity of CrVI: In-utero exposure to CrVI at the critical window of testis differentiation represses the expression of Sertoli cell tight junction proteins and hormone receptors in adult F 1 progeny rats. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 69:84-98. [PMID: 28192182 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The effect of gestational exposure to CrVI (occupational/environmental pollutant and target to Sertoli cells(SC)) was tested in a rat model during the testicular differentiation from the bipotential gonad may interrupt spermatogenesis by disrupting SC tight junctions(TJ) and it's proteins and hormone receptors. Pregnant Wistar rats were exposed to 50/100/200ppm CrVI through drinking water during embryonic days 9-14. On Postnatal day 120, testes were subjected to ion exchange chromatographic analysis and revealed increased level of CrIII in SCs and germ cells, serum and testicular interstitial fluid(TIF). Microscopic analyses showed seminiferous tubules atrophy and disruption of SC TJ, which also recorded decreased testosterone in TIF. mRNA and Protein expression analyses attested decreased level of Fshr, Ar, occludin and claudin-11 in SCs. Immunofluorescent detection revealed weak signal of TJ proteins. Taken together, we concluded that gestational exposure to CrVI interferes with the expression of SC TJ proteins due to attenuated expression of hormone receptors.
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12
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Li N, Mruk DD, Lee WM, Wong CKC, Cheng CY. Is toxicant-induced Sertoli cell injury in vitro a useful model to study molecular mechanisms in spermatogenesis? Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 59:141-156. [PMID: 26779951 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells isolated from rodents or humans and cultured in vitro are known to establish a functional tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier that mimics the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in vivo. This model has been widely used by investigators to study the biology of the TJ and the BTB. Studies have shown that environmental toxicants (e.g., perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), bisphenol A (BPA) and cadmium) that exert their disruptive effects to induce Sertoli cell injury using this in vitro model are reproducible in studies in vivo. Thus, this in vitro system provides a convenient approach to probe the molecular mechanism(s) underlying toxicant-induced testis injury but also to provide new insights in understanding spermatogenesis, such as the biology of cell adhesion, BTB restructuring that supports preleptotene spermatocyte transport, and others. Herein, we provide a brief and critical review based on studies using this in vitro model of Sertoli cell cultures using primary cells isolated from rodent testes vs. humans to monitor environmental toxicant-mediated Sertoli cell injury. In short, recent findings have shown that environmental toxicants exert their effects on Sertoli cells to induce testis injury through their action on Sertoli cell actin- and/or microtubule-based cytoskeleton. These effects are mediated via their disruptive effects on actin- and/or microtubule-binding proteins. Sertoli cells also utilize differential spatiotemporal expression of these actin binding proteins to confer plasticity to the BTB to regulate germ cell transport across the BTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Li
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Dolores D Mruk
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Will M Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States.
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Gao Y, Mruk DD, Cheng CY. Sertoli cells are the target of environmental toxicants in the testis - a mechanistic and therapeutic insight. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2015; 19:1073-90. [PMID: 25913180 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2015.1039513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sertoli cells support germ cell development in the testis via an elaborate network of cell junctions that confers structural, communicating, and signaling support. However, Sertoli cell junctions and cytoskeletons are the target of environmental toxicants. Because germ cells rely on Sertoli cells for the provision of structural/functional/nutritional support, exposure of males to toxicants leads to germ cell exfoliation due to Sertoli cell injuries. Interestingly, the molecular mechanism(s) by which toxicants induce cytoskeletal disruption that leads to germ cell exfoliation is unclear, until recent years, which are discussed herein. This information can possibly be used to therapeutically manage toxicant-induced infertility/subfertility in human males. AREAS COVERED In this review, we provide a brief update on the use of Sertoli cell system developed for rodents and humans in vitro, which can be deployed in any research laboratory with minimal upfront setup costs. These systems can be used to collect reliable data applicable to studies in vivo. We also discuss the latest findings on the mechanisms by which toxicants induce Sertoli cell injury, in particular cytoskeletal disruption. We also identify candidate molecules that are likely targets of toxicants. EXPERT OPINION We provide two hypothetical models delineating the mechanism by which toxicants induce germ cell exfoliation and blood-testis barrier disruption. We also discuss molecules that are the targets of toxicants as therapeutic candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Gao
- Population Council, Center for Biomedical Research , 1230 York Ave, New York, NY, 10065 , USA
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Reis MMS, Moreira AC, Sousa M, Mathur PP, Oliveira PF, Alves MG. Sertoli cell as a model in male reproductive toxicology: Advantages and disadvantages. J Appl Toxicol 2015; 35:870-83. [DOI: 10.1002/jat.3122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Revised: 12/21/2014] [Accepted: 12/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana M. S. Reis
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, UMIB-FCT, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS); University of Porto; Porto Portugal
| | - Ana C. Moreira
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, UMIB-FCT, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS); University of Porto; Porto Portugal
| | - Mário Sousa
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, UMIB-FCT, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS); University of Porto; Porto Portugal
| | - Premendu P. Mathur
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences; Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, India & KIIT University; Bhubaneswar India
| | - Pedro F. Oliveira
- CICS - UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre; University of Beira Interior; Covilhã Portugal
| | - Marco G. Alves
- CICS - UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre; University of Beira Interior; Covilhã Portugal
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Xiao X, Mruk DD, Tang EI, Wong CKC, Lee WM, John CM, Turek PJ, Silvestrini B, Cheng CY. Environmental toxicants perturb human Sertoli cell adhesive function via changes in F-actin organization mediated by actin regulatory proteins. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:1279-91. [PMID: 24532171 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can human Sertoli cells cultured in vitro and that have formed an epithelium be used as a model to monitor toxicant-induced junction disruption and to better understand the mechanism(s) by which toxicants disrupt cell adhesion at the Sertoli cell blood-testis barrier (BTB)? SUMMARY ANSWER Our findings illustrate that human Sertoli cells cultured in vitro serve as a reliable system to monitor the impact of environmental toxicants on the BTB function. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Suspicions of a declining trend in semen quality and a concomitant increase in exposures to environmental toxicants over the past decades reveal the need of an in vitro system that efficiently and reliably monitors the impact of toxicants on male reproductive function. Furthermore, studies in rodents have confirmed that environmental toxicants impede Sertoli cell BTB function in vitro and in vivo. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE AND DURATION We examined the effects of two environmental toxicants: cadmium chloride (0.5-20 µM) and bisphenol A (0.4-200 µM) on human Sertoli cell function. Cultured Sertoli cells from three men were used in this study, which spanned an 18-month period. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human Sertoli cells from three subjects were cultured in F12/DMEM containing 5% fetal bovine serum. Changes in protein expression were monitored by immunoblotting using specific antibodies. Immunofluorescence analyses were used to assess changes in the distribution of adhesion proteins, F-actin and actin regulatory proteins following exposure to two toxicants: cadmium chloride and bisphenol A (BPA). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Human Sertoli cells were sensitive to cadmium and BPA toxicity. Changes in the localization of cell adhesion proteins were mediated by an alteration of the actin-based cytoskeleton. This alteration of F-actin network in Sertoli cells as manifested by truncation and depolymerization of actin microfilaments at the Sertoli cell BTB was caused by mislocalization of actin filament barbed end capping and bundling protein Eps8, and branched actin polymerization protein Arp3. Besides impeding actin dynamics, endocytic vesicle-mediated trafficking and the proper localization of actin regulatory proteins c-Src and annexin II in Sertoli cells were also affected. Results of statistical analysis demonstrate that these findings were not obtained by chance. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION (i) This study was done in vitro and might not extrapolate to the in vivo state, (ii) conclusions are based on the use of Sertoli cell samples from three men and (iii) it is uncertain if the concentrations of toxicants used in the experiments are reached in vivo. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Human Sertoli cells cultured in vitro provide a robust model to monitor environmental toxicant-mediated disruption of Sertoli cell BTB function and to study the mechanism(s) of toxicant-induced testicular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Xiao
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
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Wan HT, Mruk DD, Wong CKC, Cheng CY. The apical ES-BTB-BM functional axis is an emerging target for toxicant-induced infertility. Trends Mol Med 2013; 19:396-405. [PMID: 23643465 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2013.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2013] [Revised: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 03/29/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Testes are sensitive to toxicants, such as cadmium and phthalates, which disrupt a local functional axis in the seminiferous epithelium known as the 'apical ectoplasmic specialization (apical ES)-blood-testis barrier (BTB)-basement membrane (BM)'. Following exposure, toxicants contact the basement membrane and activate the Sertoli cell, which perturbs its signaling function. Thus, toxicants can modulate signaling and/or cellular events at the apical ES-BTB-BM axis, perturbing spermatogenesis without entering the epithelium. Toxicants also enter the epithelium via drug transporters to potentiate their damaging effects, and downregulation of efflux transporters by toxicants impedes BTB function such that toxicants remain in the epithelium and efficiently disrupt spermatogenesis. These findings support a novel model of toxicant-induced disruption of spermatogenesis that could be interfered with using small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hin-Ting Wan
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
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Wan HT, Mruk DD, Wong CKC, Cheng CY. Targeting testis-specific proteins to inhibit spermatogenesis: lesson from endocrine disrupting chemicals. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2013; 17:839-55. [PMID: 23600530 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2013.791679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) has recently been linked to declining fertility in men in both developed and developing countries. Since many EDCs possess intrinsic estrogenic or androgenic activities, thus, the gonad is one of the major targets of EDCs. AREAS COVERED For the past 2 decades, studies found in the literature regarding the disruptive effects of these EDCs on reproductive function in human males and also rodents were mostly focused on oxidative stress-induced germ cell apoptosis, disruption of steroidogenesis, abnormal sperm production and disruption of spermatogenesis in particular cell adhesion function and the blood-testis-barrier (BTB) function. Herein, we highlight recent findings in the field illustrating testis-specific proteins are also targets of EDCs. EXPERT OPINION This information should be helpful in developing better therapeutic approach to manage ECD-induced reproductive toxicity. This information is also helpful to identify potential targets for male contraceptive development.
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Affiliation(s)
- H T Wan
- Center for Biomedical Research, The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
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