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Bashiri Z, Hosseini SJ, Salem M, Koruji M. In vivo and in vitro sperm production: an overview of the challenges and advances in male fertility restoration. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2024; 51:171-180. [PMID: 38525520 PMCID: PMC11372308 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2023.06569] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Male infertility can be caused by genetic anomalies, endocrine disorders, inflammation, and exposure to toxic chemicals or gonadotoxic treatments. Therefore, several recent studies have concentrated on the preservation and restoration of fertility to enhance the quality of life for affected individuals. It is currently recommended to biobank the tissue extracted from testicular biopsies to provide a later source of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Another successful approach has been the in vitro production of haploid male germ cells. The capacity of SSCs to transform into sperm, as in testicular tissue transplantation, SSC therapy, and in vitro or ex vivo spermatogenesis, makes them ideal candidates for in vivo fertility restoration. The transplantation of SSCs or testicular tissue to regenerate spermatogenesis and create embryos has been achieved in nonhuman mammal species. Although the outcomes of human trials have yet to be released, this method may soon be approved for clinical use in humans. Furthermore, regenerative medicine techniques that develop tissue or cells on organic or synthetic scaffolds enriched with bioactive molecules have also gained traction. All of these methods are now in different stages of experimentation and clinical trials. However, thanks to rigorous studies on the safety and effectiveness of SSC-based reproductive treatments, some of these techniques may be clinically available in upcoming decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Bashiri
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Omid Fertility and Infertility Clinic, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Seyed Jamal Hosseini
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomaterials and Medical Biomaterials Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Salem
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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von Rohden E, Jensen CFS, Andersen CY, Sønksen J, Fedder J, Thorup J, Ohl DA, Fode M, Hoffmann ER, Mamsen LS. Male fertility restoration: in vivo and in vitro stem cell-based strategies using cryopreserved testis tissue: a scoping review. Fertil Steril 2024:S0015-0282(24)00603-4. [PMID: 38992744 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2024.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Advances in the treatment of childhood cancer have significantly improved survival rates, with more than 80% of survivors reaching adulthood. However, gonadotoxic cancer treatments endanger future fertility, and prepubertal males have no option to preserve fertility by sperm cryopreservation. In addition, boys with cryptorchidism are at risk of compromised fertility in adulthood. OBJECTIVE To investigate current evidence for male fertility restoration strategies, explore barriers to clinical implementation, and outline potential steps to overcome these barriers, a scoping review was conducted. This knowledge synthesis is particularly relevant for prepubertal male cancer survivors and boys with cryptorchidism. EVIDENCE REVIEW The review was conducted after the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews criteria and previously published guidelines and examined studies using human testis tissue of prepubertal boys or healthy male adults. A literature search in PubMed was conducted, and 72 relevant studies were identified, including in vivo and in vitro approaches. FINDINGS In vivo strategies, such as testis tissue engraftment and spermatogonial stem cell transplantation, hold promise for promoting cell survival and differentiation. Yet, complete spermatogenesis has not been achieved. In vitro approaches focus on the generation of male germ cells from direct germ cell maturation in various culture systems, alongside human induced pluripotent stem cells and embryonic stem cells. These approaches mark significant advancements in understanding and promoting spermatogenesis, but achieving fully functional spermatozoa in vitro remains a challenge. Barriers to clinical implementation include the risk of reintroducing malignant cells and introduction of epigenetic changes. CONCLUSION Male fertility restoration is an area in rapid development. On the basis of the reviewed studies, the most promising and advanced strategy for restoring male fertility using cryopreserved testis tissue is direct testis tissue transplantation. RELEVANCE This review identifies persistent barriers to the clinical implementation of male fertility restoration. However, direct transplantation of frozen-thawed testis tissue remains a promising strategy that is on the verge of clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena von Rohden
- Department of Urology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Herlev, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Sønksen
- Department of Urology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Herlev, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Fedder
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Centre of Andrology & Fertility Clinic, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Research Unit of Human Reproduction, Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Thorup
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Pediatric Surgery, Surgical Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dana A Ohl
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Mikkel Fode
- Department of Urology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Herlev, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva R Hoffmann
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, DNRF Center for Chromosome Stability, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Linn Salto Mamsen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Mohammadi A, Bashiri Z, Rafiei S, Asgari H, Shabani R, Hosseini S, Koruji M. Testicular niche repair after gonadotoxic treatments: Current knowledge and future directions. Biol Cell 2024; 116:e2300123. [PMID: 38470182 DOI: 10.1111/boc.202300123] [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: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
The testicular niche, which includes the germ cells, somatic cells, and extracellular matrix, plays a crucial role in maintaining the proper functions of the testis. Gonadotoxic treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, have significantly improved the survival rates of cancer patients but have also been shown to have adverse effects on the testicular microenvironment. Therefore, repairing the testicular niche after gonadotoxic treatments is essential to restore its function. In recent years, several approaches, such as stem cell transplantation, gene therapy, growth factor therapy, and pharmacological interventions have been proposed as potential therapeutic strategies to repair the testicular niche. This comprehensive review aims to provide an overview of the current understanding of testis damage and repair mechanisms. We will cover a range of topics, including the mechanism of gonadotoxic action, repair mechanisms, and treatment approaches. Overall, this review highlights the importance of repairing the testicular niche after gonadotoxic treatments and identifies potential avenues for future research to improve the outcomes for cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Mohammadi
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Bashiri
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Omid Fertility & Infertility Clinic, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Sara Rafiei
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Asgari
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ronak Shabani
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - SeyedJamal Hosseini
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomaterials and Medical Biomaterials Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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van Maaren J, Alves LF, van Wely M, van Pelt AMM, Mulder CL. Favorable culture conditions for spermatogonial propagation in human and non-human primate primary testicular cell cultures: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1330830. [PMID: 38259514 PMCID: PMC10800969 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1330830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Autologous transplantation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) isolated from cryopreserved testicular biopsies obtained before oncological treatment could restore fertility in male childhood cancer survivors. There is a clear necessity for in vitro propagation of the limited SSCs from the testicular biopsy prior to transplantation due to limited numbers of spermatogonia in a cryopreserved testicular biopsy. Still, there is no consensus regarding their optimal culture method. Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies reporting primary testicular cell cultures of human and non-human primate origin through use of Pubmed, EMBASE, and Web of Science core collection databases. Of 760 records, we included 42 articles for qualitative and quantitative analysis. To quantify in vitro spermatogonial propagation, spermatogonial colony doubling time (CDT) was calculated, which measures the increase in the number of spermatogonial colonies over time. A generalized linear mixed model analysis was used to assess the statistical effect of various culture conditions on CDT. Results: Our analysis indicates decreased CDTs, indicating faster spermatogonial propagation in cultures with a low culture temperature (32°C); with use of non-cellular matrices; use of StemPro-34 medium instead of DMEM; use of Knockout Serum Replacement; and when omitting additional growth factors in the culture medium. Discussion: The use of various methods and markers to detect the presence of spermatogonia within the reported cultures could result in detection bias, thereby potentially influencing comparability between studies. However, through use of CDT in the quantitative analysis this bias was reduced. Our results provide insight into critical culture conditions to further optimize human spermatogonial propagation in vitro, and effectively propagate and utilize these cells in a future fertility restoration therapy and restore hope of biological fatherhood for childhood cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillis van Maaren
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Luis F. Alves
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Madelon van Wely
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ans M. M. van Pelt
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Callista L. Mulder
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Bashiri Z, Moghaddaszadeh A, Falak R, Khadivi F, Afzali A, Abbasi M, Sharifi AM, Asgari HR, Ghanbari F, Koruji M. Generation of Haploid Spermatids on Silk Fibroin-Alginate-Laminin-Based Porous 3D Scaffolds. Macromol Biosci 2023; 23:e2200574. [PMID: 37116215 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202200574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
In vitro production of sperm is a desirable idea for fertility preservation in azoospermic men and prepubertal boys suffering from cancer. In this study, a biocompatible porous scaffold based on a triad mixture of silk fibroin (SF), alginate (Alg), and laminin (LM) is developed to facilitate the differentiation of mouse spermatogonia stem cells (SSCs). Following SF extraction, the content is analyzed by SDS-PAGE and stable porous 3D scaffolds are successfully prepared by merely Alg, SF, and a combination of Alg-SF, or Alg-SF-LM through freeze-drying. Then, the biomimetic scaffolds are characterized regarding the structural and biological properties, water absorption capacity, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical behavior. Neonatal mice testicular cells are seeded on three-dimensional scaffolds and their differentiation efficiency is evaluated using real-time PCR, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry. Blend matrices showed uniform porous microstructures with interconnected networks, which maintained long-term stability and mechanical properties better than homogenous structures. Molecular analysis of the cells after 21 days of culture showed that the expression of differentiation-related proteins in cells that are developed in composite scaffolds is significantly higher than in other groups. The application of a composite system can lead to the differentiation of SSCs, paving the way for a novel infertility treatment landscape in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Bashiri
- Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
- Omid Fertility & Infertility Clinic, Hamedan, 6516796198, Iran
| | - Ali Moghaddaszadeh
- Departement of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, 1477893855, Iran
| | - Reza Falak
- Immunology Research Center (IRC), Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
| | - Farnaz Khadivi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, 8815713471, Iran
| | - Azita Afzali
- Hajar hospital, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, 8816854633, Iran
| | - Mehdi Abbasi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1417653761, Iran
| | - Ali Mohammad Sharifi
- Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
- Tissue Engineering Group (NOCERAL), Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Hamid Reza Asgari
- Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
| | - Farid Ghanbari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
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Munyoki SK, Orwig KE. Perspectives: Methods for Evaluating Primate Spermatogonial Stem Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2656:341-364. [PMID: 37249880 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3139-3_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a complex, highly productive process generating millions of sperm per day. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are at the foundation of spermatogenesis and can either self-renew, producing more SSCs, or differentiate to initiate spermatogenesis and produce sperm. The biological potential of SSCs to produce and maintain spermatogenesis makes them a promising tool for the treatment of male infertility. However, translating knowledge from rodents to higher primates (monkeys and humans) is challenged by different vocabularies that are used to describe stem cells and spermatogenic lineage development in those species. Furthermore, while rodent SSCs are defined by their biological potential to produce and maintain spermatogenesis in a transplant assay, there is no equivalent routine and accessible bioassay to test monkey and human SSCs or replicate their functions in vitro. This chapter describes progress characterizing, isolating, culturing, and transplanting SSCs in higher primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Munyoki
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Integrative Systems Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Integrative Systems Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Rahbar M, Asadpour R, Azami M, Mazaheri Z, Hamali H. Improving the process of spermatogenesis in azoospermic mice using spermatogonial stem cells co-cultured with epididymosomes in three-dimensional culture system. Life Sci 2022; 310:121057. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Cortez J, Leiva B, Torres CG, Parraguez VH, De los Reyes M, Carrasco A, Peralta OA. Generation and Characterization of Bovine Testicular Organoids Derived from Primary Somatic Cell Populations. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12172283. [PMID: 36078004 PMCID: PMC9455065 DOI: 10.3390/ani12172283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Organoids are 3D-culture systems composed of tissue-specific primary cells that self-organize and self-renew, creating structures similar to those of their tissue of origin. Testicular organoids (TOs) may recreate conditions of the testicular niche in domestic and wild cattle; however, no previous TO studies have been reported in the bovine species. Thus, in the present study, we sought to generate and characterize bovine TOs derived from primary testicular cell populations including Leydig, Sertoli and peritubular myoid cells. Testicular cells were isolated from bovine testes and cultured in ultra-low attachment (ULA) plates and Matrigel. TOs were cultured in media supplemented from day 3 with 100 ng/mL of BMP4 and 10 ng/mL of FGF2 and from day 7 with 15 ng/mL of GDNF. Testicular cells were able to generate TOs after 3 days of culture. The cells positive for STAR (Leydig) and COL1A (peritubular myoid) decreased (p < 0.05), whereas cells positive for WT1 (Sertoli) increased (p < 0.05) in TOs during a 28-day culture period. The levels of testosterone in media increased (p < 0.05) at day 28 of culture. Thus, testicular cells isolated from bovine testes were able to generate TOs under in vitro conditions. These bovine TOs have steroidogenic activity characterized by the production of testosterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jahaira Cortez
- Department of Animal Production Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Chile, Santa Rosa 11735, Santiago 8820808, Chile
- Doctorate Program of Forestry, Agriculture, and Veterinary Sciences (DCSAV), University of Chile, Santa Rosa 11315, Santiago 8820808, Chile
| | - Barbara Leiva
- Department of Animal Production Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Chile, Santa Rosa 11735, Santiago 8820808, Chile
| | - Cristian G. Torres
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Chile, Santa Rosa 11735, Santiago 8820808, Chile
| | - Víctor H. Parraguez
- Department of Biological Sciences, Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Chile, Santa Rosa 11735, Santiago 8820808, Chile
| | - Mónica De los Reyes
- Department of Animal Production Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Chile, Santa Rosa 11735, Santiago 8820808, Chile
| | - Albert Carrasco
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology, Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán 3780000, Chile
| | - Oscar A. Peralta
- Department of Animal Production Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Chile, Santa Rosa 11735, Santiago 8820808, Chile
- Correspondence:
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Tran KTD, Valli-Pulaski H, Colvin A, Orwig KE. Male fertility preservation and restoration strategies for patients undergoing gonadotoxic therapies†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:382-405. [PMID: 35403667 PMCID: PMC9382377 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical treatments for cancers or other conditions can lead to permanent infertility. Infertility is an insidious disease that impacts not only the ability to have a biological child but also the emotional well-being of the infertile individuals, relationships, finances, and overall health. Therefore, all patients should be educated about the effects of their medical treatments on future fertility and about fertility preservation options. The standard fertility preservation option for adolescent and adult men is sperm cryopreservation. Sperms can be frozen and stored for a long period, thawed at a later date, and used to achieve pregnancy with existing assisted reproductive technologies. However, sperm cryopreservation is not applicable for prepubertal patients who do not yet produce sperm. The only fertility preservation option available to prepubertal boys is testicular tissue cryopreservation. Next-generation technologies are being developed to mature those testicular cells or tissues to produce fertilization-competent sperms. When sperm and testicular tissues are not available for fertility preservation, inducing pluripotent stem cells derived from somatic cells, such as blood or skin, may provide an alternative path to produce sperms through a process call in vitro gametogenesis. This review describes standard and experimental options to preserve male fertility as well as the experimental options to produce functional spermatids or sperms from immature cryopreserved testicular tissues or somatic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kien T D Tran
- Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Hanna Valli-Pulaski
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Amanda Colvin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Correspondence: Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA. Tel: 412-641-2460; E-mail:
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Sanou I, van Maaren J, Eliveld J, Lei Q, Meißner A, de Melker AA, Hamer G, van Pelt AMM, Mulder CL. Spermatogonial Stem Cell-Based Therapies: Taking Preclinical Research to the Next Level. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:850219. [PMID: 35444616 PMCID: PMC9013905 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.850219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation via biobanking of testicular tissue retrieved from testicular biopsies is now generally recommended for boys who need to undergo gonadotoxic treatment prior to the onset of puberty, as a source of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). SSCs have the potential of forming spermatids and may be used for therapeutic fertility approaches later in life. Although in the past 30 years many milestones have been reached to work towards SSC-based fertility restoration therapies, including transplantation of SSCs, grafting of testicular tissue and various in vitro and ex vivo spermatogenesis approaches, unfortunately, all these fertility therapies are still in a preclinical phase and not yet available for patients who have become infertile because of their treatment during childhood. Therefore, it is now time to take the preclinical research towards SSC-based therapy to the next level to resolve major issues that impede clinical implementation. This review gives an outline of the state of the art of the effectiveness and safety of fertility preservation and SSC-based therapies and addresses the hurdles that need to be taken for optimal progression towards actual clinical implementation of safe and effective SSC-based fertility treatments in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Sanou
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jillis van Maaren
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jitske Eliveld
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Qijing Lei
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Andreas Meißner
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Urology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Annemieke A de Melker
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Geert Hamer
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Callista L Mulder
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Xing K, Chen Y, Wang L, Lv X, Li Z, Qi X, Wang X, Xiao L, Ni H, Guo Y, Sheng X. Epididymal mRNA and miRNA transcriptome analyses reveal important genes and miRNAs related to sperm motility in roosters. Poult Sci 2022; 101:101558. [PMID: 34844112 PMCID: PMC8633681 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm motility is a crucial trait in chicken production, and the epididymis is an essential organ in the reproductive system. Currently, the molecular mechanisms underlying sperm motility in the epididymis are unclear. In this study, 8 cDNA libraries and eight miRNA libraries were constructed from roosters (4 chickens per group) with diverse sperm motility. After a comparative analysis of epididymal transcriptomes, we detected 84 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using the edgeR package. Integrated interpretation of DEGs indicated that MMP9, SLN, WT1, PLIN1, and LRRIQ1 are the most promising candidate genes affecting sperm motility in the epididymis of roosters. MiR-146a, mir-135b, and mir-205 could play important regulatory roles in sperm maturation, capacitation, and motility. Additionally, a comprehensive analysis of the mRNA and miRNAs transcriptomes in silico identified a promising gene-miRNA pair miR-135b-HPS5, which may be a vital regulator of sperm motility in the epididymis. Our findings provide novel integrated information of miRNAs and genes that shed light on the regulatory mechanisms of fertility in roosters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Xing
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Beijing General Station of Animal Husbandry, Beijing 100107, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Beijing General Station of Animal Husbandry, Beijing 100107, China
| | - Xueze Lv
- Beijing General Station of Animal Husbandry, Beijing 100107, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Beijing Institute of Feed Control, Beijing 100107, China
| | - Xiaolong Qi
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xiangguo Wang
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Longfei Xiao
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Hemin Ni
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yong Guo
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xihui Sheng
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China.
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12
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Advances in stem cell research for the treatment of primary hypogonadism. Nat Rev Urol 2021; 18:487-507. [PMID: 34188209 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-021-00480-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In Leydig cell dysfunction, cells respond weakly to stimulation by pituitary luteinizing hormone, and, therefore, produce less testosterone, leading to primary hypogonadism. The most widely used treatment for primary hypogonadism is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). However, TRT causes infertility and has been associated with other adverse effects, such as causing erythrocytosis and gynaecomastia, worsening obstructive sleep apnoea and increasing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality risks. Stem-cell-based therapy that re-establishes testosterone-producing cell lineages in the body has, therefore, become a promising prospect for treating primary hypogonadism. Over the past two decades, substantial advances have been made in the identification of Leydig cell sources for use in transplantation surgery, including the artificial induction of Leydig-like cells from different types of stem cells, for example, stem Leydig cells, mesenchymal stem cells, and pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). PSC-derived Leydig-like cells have already provided a powerful in vitro model to study the molecular mechanisms underlying Leydig cell differentiation and could be used to treat men with primary hypogonadism in a more specific and personalized approach.
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13
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Doungkamchan C, Orwig KE. Recent advances: fertility preservation and fertility restoration options for males and females. Fac Rev 2021; 10:55. [PMID: 34195694 PMCID: PMC8204761 DOI: 10.12703/r/10-55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation is the process of saving gametes, embryos, gonadal tissues and/or gonadal cells for individuals who are at risk of infertility due to disease, medical treatments, age, genetics, or other circumstances. Adult patients have the options to preserve eggs, sperm, or embryos that can be used in the future to produce biologically related offspring with assisted reproductive technologies. These options are not available to all adults or to children who are not yet producing mature eggs or sperm. Gonadal cells/tissues have been frozen for several thousands of those patients worldwide with anticipation that new reproductive technologies will be available in the future. Therefore, the fertility preservation medical and research communities are obligated to responsibly develop next-generation reproductive technologies and translate them into clinical practice. We briefly describe standard options to preserve and restore fertility, but the emphasis of this review is on experimental options, including an assessment of readiness for translation to the human fertility clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chatchanan Doungkamchan
- Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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14
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Isolation, identification and differentiation of human spermatogonial cells on three-dimensional decellularized sheep testis. Acta Histochem 2020; 122:151623. [PMID: 32992121 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2020.151623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Improvement of in vitro culture methods of Spermatogonial Stem Cells (SSCs) is known to be an effective procedure for further study of the process of spermatogenesis and can offer effective therapeutic modality for male infertility. Tissue decellularization by providing natural 3D and extracellular matrix (ECM) conditions for cell growth can be an alternative procedure to enhance in vitro culture conditions. In the present study, the testicular tissues were taken from brain death donors. After enzymatic digestion, the tissue cells were isolated and cultured for four weeks. Then the identity of the SSCs was confirmed using anti-GFRα1 and anti-PLZF antibodies via immunocytochemistry (ICC). The differentiation capacity of SSCs were evaluated by culture of them on a layer of decellularized testicular matrix (DTM) prepared from sheep testis, as well as under two-dimensional (2D) culture with differentiation medium. After four and six weeks of the initiation of differentiation culture, the pre-meiotic, meiotic and post- meiotic genes at the mRNA and protein levels was examined via qPCR and ICC methods, respectively. The results showed that pre-meiotic, meiotic and post-meiotic genes expressions were significantly higher in the cells cultured in DTM substrate (P ≤ 0.01).The present study indicated that, the natural structure of ECM prepare the suitable conditions for further study of the spermatogenesis process in the in vitro and contributes to the maintenance and treatment of male infertility.
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15
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Gul M, Hildorf S, Dong L, Thorup J, Hoffmann ER, Jensen CFS, Sønksen J, Cortes D, Fedder J, Andersen CY, Goossens E. Review of injection techniques for spermatogonial stem cell transplantation. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:368-391. [PMID: 32163572 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the prognosis of childhood cancer survivors has increased dramatically during recent years, chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancer and other conditions may lead to permanent infertility in prepubertal boys. Recent developments have shown that spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) transplantation may be a hope for restoring fertility in adult survivors of childhood cancers. For this reason, several centres around the world are collecting and cryopreserving testicular tissue or cells anticipating that, in the near future, some patients will return for SSC transplantation. This review summarizes the current knowledge and utility of SSC transplantation techniques. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the currently used experimental injection techniques for SSC transplantation in animal and human testes. This is crucial in understanding and determining the role of the different techniques necessary for successful transplantation. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed publications on this topic was performed using the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The search was limited to English language work and studies between 1994 (from the first study on SSC transplantation) and April 2019. Key search terms included mouse, rat, boar, ram, dog, sheep, goat, cattle, monkey, human, cadaver, testes, SSC transplantation, injection and technique. OUTCOMES This review provides an extensive clinical overview of the current research in the field of human SSC transplantation. Rete testis injection with ultrasonography guidance currently seems the most promising injection technique thus far; however, the ability to draw clear conclusions is limited due to long ischemia time of cadaver testis, the relatively decreased volume of the testis, the diminishing size of seminiferous tubules, a lack of intratesticular pressure and leakage into the interstitium during the injection on human cadaver testis. Current evidence does not support improved outcomes from multiple infusions through the rete testes. Overall, further optimization is required to increase the efficiency and safety of the infusion method. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Identifying a favourable injection method for SSC transplantation will provide insight into the mechanisms of successful assisted human reproduction. Future research could focus on reducing leakage and establishing the optimal infusion cell concentrations and pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Gul
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Urology, Selcuk University School of Medicine, 42250 Konya, Turkey
| | - Simone Hildorf
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lihua Dong
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jorgen Thorup
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva R Hoffmann
- DNRF Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Jens Sønksen
- Department of Urology, Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital, 2930 Herlev, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dina Cortes
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Pediatrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Jens Fedder
- Centre of Andrology & Fertility Clinic, Department D, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark.,Research Unit of Human Reproduction, Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ellen Goossens
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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16
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Silk Nanofibrous Electrospun Scaffold Amplifies Proliferation and Stemness Profile of Mouse Spermatogonial Stem Cells. REGENERATIVE ENGINEERING AND TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40883-020-00189-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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17
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Struijk RB, Mulder CL, van Daalen SKM, de Winter-Korver CM, Jongejan A, Repping S, van Pelt AMM. ITGA6+ Human Testicular Cell Populations Acquire a Mesenchymal Rather than Germ Cell Transcriptional Signature during Long-Term Culture. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218269. [PMID: 33158248 PMCID: PMC7672582 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autologous spermatogonial stem cell transplantation is an experimental technique aimed at restoring fertility in infertile men. Although effective in animal models, in vitro propagation of human spermatogonia prior to transplantation has proven to be difficult. A major limiting factor is endogenous somatic testicular cell overgrowth during long-term culture. This makes the culture both inefficient and necessitates highly specific cell sorting strategies in order to enrich cultured germ cell fractions prior to transplantation. Here, we employed RNA-Seq to determine cell type composition in sorted integrin alpha-6 (ITGA6+) primary human testicular cells (n = 4 donors) cultured for up to two months, using differential gene expression and cell deconvolution analyses. Our data and analyses reveal that long-term cultured ITGA6+ testicular cells are composed mainly of cells expressing markers of peritubular myoid cells, (progenitor) Leydig cells, fibroblasts and mesenchymal stromal cells and only a limited percentage of spermatogonial cells as compared to their uncultured counterparts. These findings provide valuable insights into the cell type composition of cultured human ITGA6+ testicular cells during in vitro propagation and may serve as a basis for optimizing future cell sorting strategies as well as optimizing the current human testicular cell culture system for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B. Struijk
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
| | - Callista L. Mulder
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
| | - Saskia K. M. van Daalen
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
| | - Cindy M. de Winter-Korver
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
| | - Aldo Jongejan
- Department of Epidemiology & Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Ans M. M. van Pelt
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-20-56-67837
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18
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McClusky LM. Simple, once-off mapping of various, recurrent immunostaining patterns of proliferating cell nuclear antigen in spermatogonia at the immature pole of the testis of adult wild-caught blue shark, Prionace glauca: Correlations with changes in testicular status. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:1111-1123. [PMID: 33104292 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
This study was a single time-point mapping of various immunostaining patterns revealed with the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) PC10 antibody in spermatogonia at the immature pole of the testis of the Blue shark (Prionace glauca). Scattered in the stroma of the germinal ridge that demarcates the immature pole's outer boundary were nests of variously immunoreactive A-spermatogonia, each flanked by a fusiform cell. Spermatocysts were assembled from niche-derived stromal cells, displaced A-progenitors, and their progeny, which showed one of two main immunostaining patterns (i.e., an uneven light brown/globular and homogeneous dark [hod] brown appearance). The testes of wild-caught Prionace showed two conditions, namely, extensive multinucleate cell death (MNC) near the mitosis-meiosis transition or an early recovery phase from the latter showing vacuolated areas. Both the proportion of cysts with immature Bhod -spermatogonia and the frequency of mitotic figures in such cysts in the early recovery testis condition were significantly higher than the comparable parameters in MNC testis condition. Moreover, the post-MNC recovery phase revealed a decrease in the proportion of immature cysts with uneven light brown/globular-like spermatogonia. The protracted spread of a cell cycle signal in an anatomically discrete, syncytially connected spermatogonial clone manifests as different PCNA immunoreactivities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon M McClusky
- Department of Health and Care, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Narvik, Norway
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19
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Suzuki S, Diaz VD, Hermann BP. What has single-cell RNA-seq taught us about mammalian spermatogenesis? Biol Reprod 2020; 101:617-634. [PMID: 31077285 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a complex developmental program that transforms mitotic testicular germ cells (spermatogonia) into mature male gametes (sperm) for production of offspring. For decades, it has been known that this several-weeks-long process involves a series of highly ordered and morphologically recognizable cellular changes as spermatogonia proliferate, spermatocytes undertake meiosis, and spermatids develop condensed nuclei, acrosomes, and flagella. Yet, much of the underlying molecular logic driving these processes has remained opaque because conventional characterization strategies often aggregated groups of cells to meet technical requirements or due to limited capability for cell selection. Recently, a cornucopia of single-cell transcriptome studies has begun to lift the veil on the full compendium of gene expression phenotypes and changes underlying spermatogenic development. These datasets have revealed the previously obscured molecular heterogeneity among and between varied spermatogenic cell types and are reinvigorating investigation of testicular biology. This review describes the extent of available single-cell RNA-seq profiles of spermatogenic and testicular somatic cells, how those data were produced and evaluated, their present value for advancing knowledge of spermatogenesis, and their potential future utility at both the benchtop and bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinnosuke Suzuki
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Victoria D Diaz
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Brian P Hermann
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
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20
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Xu H, Yang M, Tian R, Wang Y, Liu L, Zhu Z, Yang S, Yuan Q, Niu M, Yao C, Zhi E, Li P, Zhou C, He Z, Li Z, Gao WQ. Derivation and propagation of spermatogonial stem cells from human pluripotent cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:408. [PMID: 32967715 PMCID: PMC7509941 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-01896-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study is designed to generate and propagate human spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). METHODS hPSCs were differentiated into SSC-like cells (SSCLCs) by a three-step strategy. The biological characteristics of SSCLCs were detected by immunostaining with antibodies against SSC markers. The ability of self-renewal was measured by propagating for a long time and still maintaining SSCs morphological property. The differentiation potential of SSCLCs was determined by the generation of spermatocytes and haploid cells, which were identified by immunostaining and flow cytometry. The transcriptome analysis of SSCLCs was performed by RNA sequencing. The biological function of SSCLCs was assessed by xeno-transplantation into busulfan-treated mouse testes. RESULTS SSCLCs were efficiently generated by a 3-step strategy. The SSCLCs displayed a grape-like morphology and expressed SSC markers. Moreover, SSCLCs could be propagated for approximately 4 months and still maintained their morphological properties. Furthermore, SSCLCs could differentiate into spermatocytes and haploid cells. In addition, SSCLCs displayed a similar gene expression pattern as human GPR125+ spermatogonia derived from human testicular tissues. And more, SSCLCs could survive and home at the base membrane of seminiferous tubules. CONCLUSION SSCLCs were successfully derived from hPSCs and propagated for a long time. The SSCLCs resembled their counterpart human GPR125+ spermatogonia, as evidenced by the grape-like morphology, transcriptome, homing, and functional characteristics. Therefore, hPSC-derived SSCLCs may provide a reliable cell source for studying human SSCs biological properties, disease modeling, and drug toxicity screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiming Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China. .,School of Biomedical Engineering & Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Mengbo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Ruhui Tian
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Yonghui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Linhong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Zijue Zhu
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Shi Yang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, China
| | - Qingqing Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Minghui Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Chencheng Yao
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Erlei Zhi
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Chenhao Zhou
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Zuping He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China.
| | - Wei-Qiang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China. .,School of Biomedical Engineering & Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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21
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Zhou S, Feng S, Qin W, Wang X, Tang Y, Yuan S. Epigenetic Regulation of Spermatogonial Stem Cell Homeostasis: From DNA Methylation to Histone Modification. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2020; 17:562-580. [PMID: 32939648 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-020-10044-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells(SSCs)are the ultimate germline stem cells with the potential of self-renewal and differentiation, and a dynamic balance of SSCs play an essential role in spermatogenesis. During the gene expression process, genomic DNA and nuclear protein, working together, contribute to SSC homeostasis. Recently, emerging studies have shown that epigenome-related molecules such as chromatin modifiers play an important role in SSC homeostasis through regulating target gene expression. Here, we focus on two types of epigenetic events, including DNA methylation and histone modification, and summarize their function in SSC homeostasis. Understanding the molecular mechanism during SSC homeostasis will promote the recognition of epigenetic biomarkers in male infertility, and bring light into therapies of infertile patients.Graphical Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shumin Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430030, Wuhan, China
| | - Shenglei Feng
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430030, Wuhan, China
| | - Weibing Qin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Family Planning Research Institute of Guangdong Province, 510500, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430030, Wuhan, China
| | - Yunge Tang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Family Planning Research Institute of Guangdong Province, 510500, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430030, Wuhan, China. .,Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China.
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22
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Silva HVR, da Silva AM, Lee PC, Brito BF, Silva AR, da Silva LDM, Comizzoli P. Influence of Microwave-Assisted Drying on Structural Integrity and Viability of Testicular Tissues from Adult and Prepubertal Domestic Cats. Biopreserv Biobank 2020; 18:415-424. [PMID: 32780644 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2020.0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Anhydrous preservation is a promising approach for storage of living biomaterials at nonfreezing temperatures. Using the domestic cat model, the objectives of this study were to characterize changes in histology, DNA integrity, and viability of testicular tissues from adult versus prepubertal individuals during microwave-assisted drying. Testes from each age group were cut into small pieces before reversible membrane permeabilization, exposure to trehalose, and microwave-assisted drying during different time periods. In Experiment 1, water content was monitored for up to 40 minutes of drying. Tissues from adult or prepubertal cats experienced similar decreases of water content during the first 10 minutes. Desiccation progressed slowly between 10 and 20 minutes and then remained stable. In Experiment 2, structural properties were explored at 5, 10, and 20 minutes of desiccation. Percentages of normal seminiferous tubules were lower after 20 minutes drying in adult (43%) than in prepubertal tissues (61%). At the same time point, the proportion of cell degeneration was higher in adult (53%) than prepubertal tissues (28%). Percentages of intact DNA in tissues remained above 85% regardless of the microwave time in both age groups. Lastly, adult and prepubertal tissues only lost 33% of viability in both age groups. Collective results demonstrated for the first time that normal morphology, incidence of degeneration, DNA integrity, and viability of testicular tissues remained at acceptable levels during microwave-assisted drying for 20 minutes. Overall, prepubertal testicular tissues appeared to be more resilient to microwave-assisted desiccations than adult tissues. Importantly, water loss in the presence of trehalose after 20 minutes of desiccation already is compatible with long-term storage of testicular tissues at temperatures above -20°C, which is one step closer to future storage at supra-zero temperatures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andréia Maria da Silva
- Laboratory of Animal Germplasm Conservation, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid, Mossoró, Brazil
| | - Pei-Chih Lee
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Bruna Farias Brito
- Laboratory of Carnivores Reproduction, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | | | | | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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23
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Goossens E, Jahnukainen K, Mitchell RT, van Pelt A, Pennings G, Rives N, Poels J, Wyns C, Lane S, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Rives A, Valli-Pulaski H, Steimer S, Kliesch S, Braye A, Andres MM, Medrano J, Ramos L, Kristensen SG, Andersen CY, Bjarnason R, Orwig KE, Neuhaus N, Stukenborg JB. Fertility preservation in boys: recent developments and new insights †. Hum Reprod Open 2020; 2020:hoaa016. [PMID: 32529047 PMCID: PMC7275639 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoaa016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is an important side effect of treatments used for cancer and other non-malignant conditions in males. This may be due to the loss of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and/or altered functionality of testicular somatic cells (e.g. Sertoli cells, Leydig cells). Whereas sperm cryopreservation is the first-line procedure to preserve fertility in post-pubertal males, this option does not exist for prepubertal boys. For patients unable to produce sperm and at high risk of losing their fertility, testicular tissue freezing is now proposed as an alternative experimental option to safeguard their fertility. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE With this review, we aim to provide an update on clinical practices and experimental methods, as well as to describe patient management inclusion strategies used to preserve and restore the fertility of prepubertal boys at high risk of fertility loss. SEARCH METHODS Based on the expertise of the participating centres and a literature search of the progress in clinical practices, patient management strategies and experimental methods used to preserve and restore the fertility of prepubertal boys at high risk of fertility loss were identified. In addition, a survey was conducted amongst European and North American centres/networks that have published papers on their testicular tissue banking activity. OUTCOMES Since the first publication on murine SSC transplantation in 1994, remarkable progress has been made towards clinical application: cryopreservation protocols for testicular tissue have been developed in animal models and are now offered to patients in clinics as a still experimental procedure. Transplantation methods have been adapted for human testis, and the efficiency and safety of the technique are being evaluated in mouse and primate models. However, important practical, medical and ethical issues must be resolved before fertility restoration can be applied in the clinic.Since the previous survey conducted in 2012, the implementation of testicular tissue cryopreservation as a means to preserve the fertility of prepubertal boys has increased. Data have been collected from 24 co-ordinating centres worldwide, which are actively offering testis tissue cryobanking to safeguard the future fertility of boys. More than 1033 young patients (age range 3 months to 18 years) have already undergone testicular tissue retrieval and storage for fertility preservation. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The review does not include the data of all reproductive centres worldwide. Other centres might be offering testicular tissue cryopreservation. Therefore, the numbers might be not representative for the entire field in reproductive medicine and biology worldwide. The key ethical issue regarding fertility preservation in prepubertal boys remains the experimental nature of the intervention. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The revised procedures can be implemented by the multi-disciplinary teams offering and/or developing treatment strategies to preserve the fertility of prepubertal boys who have a high risk of fertility loss. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The work was funded by ESHRE. None of the authors has a conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Goossens
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - K Jahnukainen
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden.,Division of Haematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, New Children's Hospital, Pediatric Research Center, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - R T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh; and the Edinburgh Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Amm van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G Pennings
- Bioethics Institute Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - N Rives
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, Biology of Reproduction-CECOS Laboratory, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - J Poels
- Department of Gynecology and Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Wyns
- Department of Gynecology and Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - S Lane
- Department of Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Children's Hospital Oxford, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - K A Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Oncology Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden.,Section of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Rives
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, Biology of Reproduction-CECOS Laboratory, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - H Valli-Pulaski
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - S Steimer
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - S Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - A Braye
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - M M Andres
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - J Medrano
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - L Ramos
- Departement of Obstetrics and Gynacology, Division Reproductive Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - S G Kristensen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C Y Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - R Bjarnason
- Children's Medical Center, Landspítali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland and Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - K E Orwig
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - N Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - J B Stukenborg
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden
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24
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Abstract
Infertility caused by chemotherapy or radiation treatments negatively impacts patient-survivor quality of life. The only fertility preservation option available to prepubertal boys who are not making sperm is cryopreservation of testicular tissues that contain spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) with potential to produce sperm and/or restore fertility. SSC transplantation to regenerate spermatogenesis in infertile adult survivors of childhood cancers is a mature technology. However, the number of SSCs obtained in a biopsy of a prepubertal testis may be small. Therefore, methods to expand SSC numbers in culture before transplantation are needed. Here we review progress with human SSC culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherin David
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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25
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Murdock MH, David S, Swinehart IT, Reing JE, Tran K, Gassei K, Orwig KE, Badylak SF. Human Testis Extracellular Matrix Enhances Human Spermatogonial Stem Cell Survival In Vitro. Tissue Eng Part A 2019; 25:663-676. [PMID: 30311859 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2018.0147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT This study developed and characterized human testis extracellular matrix (htECM) and porcine testis ECM (ptECM) for testing in human spermatogonial stem cell (hSSC) culture. Results confirmed the hypothesis that ECM from the homologous species (human) and homologous tissue (testis) is optimal for maintaining hSSCs. We describe a simplified feeder-free, serum-free condition for future iterative testing to achieve the long-term goal of stable hSSC cultures. To facilitate analysis and understand the fate of hSSCs in culture, we describe a multiparameter, high-throughput, quantitative flow cytometry approach to rapidly count undifferentiated spermatogonia, differentiated spermatogonia, apoptotic spermatogonia, and proliferative spermatogonia in hSSC cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark H Murdock
- 1 McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Sherin David
- 2 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Ilea T Swinehart
- 1 McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Janet E Reing
- 1 McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kien Tran
- 2 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kathrin Gassei
- 2 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- 2 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Stephen F Badylak
- 1 McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- 3 Department of Surgery, and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- 4 Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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26
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Gauthier-Fisher A, Kauffman A, Librach CL. Potential use of stem cells for fertility preservation. Andrology 2019; 8:862-878. [PMID: 31560823 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility and gonadal dysfunction can result from gonadotoxic therapies, environmental exposures, aging, or genetic conditions. In men, non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) results from defects in the spermatogenic process that can be attributed to spermatogonial stem cells (SSC) or their niche, or both. While assisted reproductive technologies and sperm banking can enable fertility preservation (FP) in men of reproductive age who are at risk for infertility, FP for pre-pubertal patients remains experimental. Therapeutic options for NOA are limited. The rapid advance of stem cell research and of gene editing technologies could enable new FP options for these patients. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), SSC, and testicular niche cells, as well as mesenchymal stromal cells (aka medicinal signaling cells, MSCs), have been investigated for their potential use in male FP strategies. OBJECTIVE Here, we review the benefits and challenges for three types of stem cell-based approaches under investigation for male FP, focusing on the role that promising sources of MSC derived from human umbilical cord, specifically human umbilical cord perivascular cells (HUCPVC), could fulfill. These approaches are as follows: 1. isolation and ex vivo expansion of autologous SSC for in vivo transplantation or in vitro spermatogenesis; 2. in vitro differentiation toward germ cell and testicular somatic cell lineages using autologous SSC, or stem cells such iPSC or MSC; and 3. protection or regeneration of the spermatogenic niche after gonadotoxic insults in vivo. CONCLUSION Our studies suggest that HUCPVC are promising sources of cells that could be utilized in multiple aspects of male FP strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A Kauffman
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - C L Librach
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Gynecology, Women's College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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27
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Guan X, Chen P, Zhao X, Hao X, Chen F, Ji M, Wen X, Lin H, Ye L, Chen H. Characterization of stem cells associated with seminiferous tubule of adult rat testis for their potential to form Leydig cells. Stem Cell Res 2019; 41:101593. [PMID: 31704538 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2019.101593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult testicular Leydig cells arise from stem cells in the neonatal and adult testis. The nature of these stem Leydig cells (SLCs) have not been well characterized. We have found previously that a group cells expressing CD90, a cell surface glycoprotein that may play roles in cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions and associated with the seminiferous tubule surface, have the ability to form Leydig cells. As yet, the relationship between this CD90+ cell population and SLCs reported previously by other groups is still unknown. In the present study, we systematically characterized these CD90+ cells by their ability to express multiple potential SLC markers and to proliferate and differentiate into Leydig cells in vitro. First, we have found by qPCR and immunohistochemical staining that the CD90+ cells do not express any of the markers of the common seminiferous tubular cells, including myoid, Sertoli, germ and Leydig cells, as well as macrophages. Moreover, when the CD90+ cells were isolated by fluorescent-sorting, the cells expressed high levels of all the potential SLC marker genes, including Nestin, Cd51, Coup-tf2, Arx, Pdgfra and Tcf21. Also, CD90-positive, but not -negative, cells were able to form Leydig cells in vitro with the proper inducing medium. Overall, the results indicated that the tubule-associated CD90+ cells represent a population of SLC in adult testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoju Guan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Panpan Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xingxing Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xinrui Hao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Fenfen Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Minpeng Ji
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xin Wen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Han Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Leping Ye
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, No.1 Xi'an Men Street, West District, Beijing, 100034, China.
| | - Haolin Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
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28
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Vermeulen M, Giudice MG, Del Vento F, Wyns C. Role of stem cells in fertility preservation: current insights. STEM CELLS AND CLONING-ADVANCES AND APPLICATIONS 2019; 12:27-48. [PMID: 31496751 PMCID: PMC6689135 DOI: 10.2147/sccaa.s178490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
While improvements made in the field of cancer therapy allow high survival rates, gonadotoxicity of chemo- and radiotherapy can lead to infertility in male and female pre- and postpubertal patients. Clinical options to preserve fertility before starting gonadotoxic therapies by cryopreserving sperm or oocytes for future use with assisted reproductive technology (ART) are now applied worldwide. Cryopreservation of pre- and postpubertal ovarian tissue containing primordial follicles, though still considered experimental, has already led to the birth of healthy babies after autotransplantation and is performed in an increasing number of centers. For prepubertal boys who do not produce gametes ready for fertilization, cryopreservation of immature testicular tissue (ITT) containing spermatogonial stem cells may be proposed as an experimental strategy with the aim of restoring fertility. Based on achievements in nonhuman primates, autotransplantation of ITT or testicular cell suspensions appears promising to restore fertility of young cancer survivors. So far, whether in two- or three-dimensional culture systems, in vitro maturation of immature male and female gonadal cells or tissue has not demonstrated a capacity to produce safe gametes for ART. Recently, primordial germ cells have been generated from embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells, but further investigations regarding efficiency and safety are needed. Transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells to improve the vascularization of gonadal tissue grafts, increase the colonization of transplanted cells, and restore the damaged somatic compartment could overcome the current limitations encountered with transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Vermeulen
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium
| | - Maria-Grazia Giudice
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Federico Del Vento
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium
| | - Christine Wyns
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels 1200, Belgium
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29
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Wagner IV, Yango P, Svechnikov K, Tran ND, Söder O. Adipocytokines may delay pubertal maturation of human Sertoli cells. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:1395-1400. [PMID: 31056083 DOI: 10.1071/rd18487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproduction is an important target of obesity complications, including adverse effects on spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. Adipocytokines are key mediators in various complications of obesity. Our aim was to study the potential of adipocytokines to affect Sertoli cell function, which is crucial for spermatogenesis, and possibly link these findings to the observed attenuation of spermatogenesis in obese males. Testicular biopsies were obtained from healthy donors. Highly purified adult human Sertoli cells (HSCs) were isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Cells were cultured and exposed to different concentrations of adipocytokines (10-1000ngmL-1 ) for 2-7 days. Expression of selected Sertoli cell genes was quantified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Long-term treatment (7 days) of HSCs with higher concentrations of chemerin, irisin, nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (Nampt), resistin and progranulin significantly suppressed FSH receptor expression (by 79%, 83%, 64%, 71% and 26% respectively; P P invitro , may negatively affect Sertoli cell maturation and retain these cells in a more prepubertal stage. This could negatively affect testis function and add to fertility problems in obese adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- I V Wagner
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden; and Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany; and Corresponding author
| | - P Yango
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, CA 94143, USA
| | - K Svechnikov
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - N D Tran
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, CA 94143, USA
| | - O Söder
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
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30
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Sharma S, Schlatt S, Van Pelt A, Neuhaus N. Characterization and population dynamics of germ cells in adult macaque testicular cultures. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0218194. [PMID: 31226129 PMCID: PMC6588212 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0218194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND From a biological and clinical perspective, it is imperative to establish primate spermatogonial cultures. Due to limited availability of human testicular tissues, the macaque (Macaca fascicularis) was employed as non-human primate model. The aim of this study was to characterize the expression of somatic as well as germ cell markers in testicular tissues and to establish macaque testicular primary cell cultures. MATERIALS AND METHODS Characterization of macaque testicular cell population was performed by immunohistochemical analyses for somatic cell markers (SOX9, VIM, SMA) as well as for germ cell markers (UTF1, MAGEA4, VASA). Testicular cells from adult macaque testes (n = 4) were isolated and cultured for 21 days using three stem cell culture media (SSC, PS and SM). An extended marker gene panel (SOX9, VIM, ACTA2; UTF1, FGFR3, MAGEA4, BOLL, DDX4) was then employed to assess the changes in gene expression levels and throughout the in vitro culture period. Dynamics of the spermatogonial population was further investigated by quantitative analysis of immunofluorescence-labeled MAGEA4-positive cells (n = 3). RESULTS RNA expression analyses of cell cultures revealed that parallel to decreasing SOX9-expressing Sertoli cells, maintenance of VIM and ACTA2-expressing somatic cells was observed. Expression levels of germ cell marker genes UTF1, FGFR3 and MAGEA4 were maintained until day 14 in SSC and SM media. Findings from MAGEA4 immunofluorescence staining corroborate mRNA expression profiling and substantiate the overall maintenance of MAGEA4-positive pre- and early meiotic germ cells until day 14. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate maintenance of macaque germ cell subpopulations in vitro. This study provides novel perspective and proof that macaques could be used as a research model for establishing in vitro germ cell-somatic cell cultures, to identify ideal culture conditions for long-term maintenance of primate germ cell subpopulation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Münster, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Münster, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
| | - Ans Van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Münster, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
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31
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Azizi H, Ghasemi Hamidabadi H, Skutella T. Differential Proliferation Effects after Short-Term Cultivation of Mouse Spermatogonial Stem Cells on Different Feeder Layers. CELL JOURNAL 2019; 21:186-193. [PMID: 30825292 PMCID: PMC6397599 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2019.5802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Objective Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) provide the cellular basis for sperm production transforming the male’s genetic
information to the next generation. We aimed to examine the effect of different feeder layer on proliferation of SSCs.
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, we compared the in vitro effects of the co-culture of mouse
SSCs with mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), sandos inbred mice (SIM) embryo-derived thioguanine- and ouabain-
resistant (STO) feeders, and neonate and adult testicular stroma cell (TSC) feeders on the efficiency of mouse SSC
proliferation and colony formation. Cells were cultivated on top of MEFs, STO, and neonate and adult TSCs feeder
layers for 30 days. The number and diameter of colonies and also the number of cells were evaluated during day 7, 15,
25, and 30 of culture. The mRNA expression of germ cells and somatic cells were analyzed.
Results In our study, we observed a significant difference in the proliferation rates and colony size of SSCs among
the groups, especially for MEFs (P<0.05). SSCs can proliferate on MEFS, but not on STO, neonate or adult TSCs.
Using immunocytochemistry by KI67 the proliferative activities of SSC colonies on MEFs were confirmed. The results
of Fluidigm real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) showed a high expression of the germ cell genes the
promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger protein (PLZF), deleted in azoospermia-like (DAZL), octamer-binding transcription
factor 4 (OCT4), and DEAD (Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp) box polypeptide 4 (DDX4 or VASA) in SSCs, and a low expression of
these genes in the feeder layers. Furthermore, we observed a higher expression of vimentin and integrin-B1 in feeder
layers than in SSCs (P<0.05).
Conclusion Based on the optimal effect of MEFs for better colonization of SSCs, these feeder cells seem to be
appropriate candidates for SSC cultures prior to transplantation. Therefore, it is suggested using these feeder cells for
SSC cultivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Azizi
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran. Electronic Address:
| | - Hatef Ghasemi Hamidabadi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Immunogenetic Research Center, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Thomas Skutella
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology III, Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 307, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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Efficiency of colony formation and differentiation of human spermatogenic cells in two different culture systems. Reprod Biol 2018; 18:397-403. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2018.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Bai Y, Zhu C, Feng M, Wei H, Li L, Tian X, Zhao Z, Liu S, Ma N, Zhang X, Shi R, Fu C, Wu Z, Zhang S. Previously claimed male germline stem cells from porcine testis are actually progenitor Leydig cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2018; 9:200. [PMID: 30021628 PMCID: PMC6052628 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-018-0931-0] [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: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Male germline stem cells (mGSCs) offer great promise in regenerative medicine and animal breeding due to their capacity to maintain self-renewal and to transmit genetic information to the next generation following spermatogenesis. Human testis-derived embryonic stem cell-like cells have been shown to possess potential of mesenchymal progenitors, but there remains confusion about the characteristics and origin of porcine testis-derived stem cells. Methods Porcine testis-derived stem cells were obtained from primary testicular cultures of 5-day old piglets, and selectively expanded using culture conditions for long-term culture and induction differentiation. The stem cell properties of porcine testis-derived stem cells were subsequently assessed by determining the expression of pluripotency-associated markers, alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity, and capacity for sperm and multilineage differentiation in vitro. The gene expression profile was compared via microarray analysis. Results We identified two different types of testis-derived stem cells (termed as C1 and C2 here) during porcine testicular cell culture. The gene expression microarray analysis showed that the transcriptome profile of C1 and C2 differed significantly from each other. The C1 appeared to be morphologically similar to the previously described mouse mGSCs, expressed pluripotency- and germ cell-associated markers, maintained the paternal imprinted pattern of H19, displayed alkaline phosphatase activity, and could differentiate into sperm. Together, these data suggest that C1 represent the porcine mGSC population. Conversely, the C2 appeared similar to the previously described porcine mGSCs with three-dimensional morphology, abundantly expressed Leydig cell lineage and mesenchymal cell-specific markers, and could differentiate into testosterone-producing Leydig cells, suggesting that they are progenitor Leydig cells (PLCs). Conclusion Collectively, we have established the expected characteristics and markers of authentic porcine mGSCs (C1). We found for the first time that, the C2, equivalent to previously claimed porcine mGSCs, are actually progenitor Leydig cells (PLCs). These findings provide new insights into the discrepancies among previous reports and future identification and analyses of testis-derived stem cells. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13287-018-0931-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinshan Bai
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510642, China.,School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, China
| | - Cui Zhu
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, China
| | - Meiying Feng
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Hengxi Wei
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Li Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Xiuchun Tian
- Center for Regenerative Biology, Department of Animal Science, University of Connecticut, 1390 Storrs Road, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Zhihong Zhao
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Shanshan Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Ningfang Ma
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Xianwei Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Ruyi Shi
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Ministry of Education, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Chao Fu
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Ministry of Education, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| | - Shouquan Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
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Tharmalingam MD, Jorgensen A, Mitchell RT. Experimental models of testicular development and function using human tissue and cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 468:95-110. [PMID: 29309804 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian testis has two main roles, production of gametes for reproduction and synthesis of steroid- and peptide hormones for masculinization. These processes are tightly regulated and involve complex interactions between a number of germ and somatic cell-types that comprise a unique microenvironment known as the germ stem cell niche. In humans, failure of normal testicular development or function is associated with susceptibility to a variety of male reproductive disorders including disorders of sex development, infertility and testicular cancer. Whilst studies in rodent models have provided detailed insight into the signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms that regulate the testis, there are important species differences in testicular development, function and reproductive disorders that highlight the need for suitable experimental models utilising human testicular tissues or cells. In this review, we outline experimental approaches used to sustain cells and tissue from human testis at different developmental time-points and discuss relevant end-points. These include survival, proliferation and differentiation of cell lineages within the testis as well as autocrine, paracrine and endocrine function. We also highlight the utility of these experimental approaches for modelling the effects of environmental exposures on testicular development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa D Tharmalingam
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, Scotland, UK
| | - Anne Jorgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, Scotland, UK; Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Edinburgh Royal Hospital for Sick Children, 9 Sciennes Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1LF, Scotland, UK.
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Mahapatra S, Martin D, Gallicano GI. Re-Defining Stem Cell-Cardiomyocyte Interactions: Focusing on the Paracrine Effector Approach. J Stem Cells Regen Med 2018. [PMID: 30018469 PMCID: PMC6043659 DOI: 10.46582/jsrm.1401003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Stem cell research for treating or curing ischemic heart disease has, till date, culminated in three basic approaches: the use of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology; reprogramming cardiac fibroblasts; and cardiovascular progenitor cell regeneration. As each approach has been shown to have its advantages and disadvantages, exploiting the advantages while minimizing the disadvantages has been a challenge. Using human germline pluripotent stem cells (hgPSCs) along with a modified version of a relatively novel cell-expansion culture methodology to induce quick, indefinite expansion of normally slow growing hgPSCs, it was possible to emphasize the advantages of all three approaches. We consistently found that unipotent germline stem cells, when removed from their niche and cultured in the correct medium, expressed endogenously, pluripotency genes, which induced them to become hgPSCs. These cells are then capable of producing cell types from all three germ layers. Upon differentiation into cardiac lineages, our data consistently showed that they not only expressed cardiac genes, but also expressed cardiac-promoting paracrine factors. Taking these data a step further, we found that hgPSC-derived cardiac cells could integrate into cardiac tissue in vivo. Note, while the work presented here was based on testes-derived hgPSCs, data from other laboratories have shown that ovaries contain very similar types of stem cells that can give rise to hgPSCs. As a result, hgPSCs should be considered a viable option for eventual use in patients, male or female, with ischemic heart disease
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Affiliation(s)
- Samiksha Mahapatra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Dianna Martin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC, USA
| | - G Ian Gallicano
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC, USA
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Fayomi AP, Orwig KE. Spermatogonial stem cells and spermatogenesis in mice, monkeys and men. Stem Cell Res 2018; 29:207-214. [PMID: 29730571 PMCID: PMC6010318 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2018.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Continuous spermatogenesis in post-pubertal mammals is dependent on spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), which balance self-renewing divisions that maintain stem cell pool with differentiating divisions that sustain continuous sperm production. Rodent stem and progenitor spermatogonia are described by their clonal arrangement in the seminiferous epithelium (e.g., Asingle, Apaired or Aaligned spermatogonia), molecular markers (e.g., ID4, GFRA1, PLZF, SALL4 and others) and most importantly by their biological potential to produce and maintain spermatogenesis when transplanted into recipient testes. In contrast, stem cells in the testes of higher primates (nonhuman and human) are defined by description of their nuclear morphology and staining with hematoxylin as Adark and Apale spermatogonia. There is limited information about how dark and pale descriptions of nuclear morphology in higher primates correspond with clone size, molecular markers or transplant potential. Do the apparent differences in stem cells and spermatogenic lineage development between rodents and primates represent true biological differences or simply differences in the volume of research and the vocabulary that has developed over the past half century? This review will provide an overview of stem, progenitor and differentiating spermatogonia that support spermatogenesis; identifying parallels between rodents and primates where they exist as well as features unique to higher primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adetunji P Fayomi
- Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States.
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Gat I, Maghen L, Filice M, Kenigsberg S, Wyse B, Zohni K, Saraz P, Fisher AG, Librach C. Initial germ cell to somatic cell ratio impacts the efficiency of SSC expansion in vitro. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 64:39-50. [PMID: 29193985 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2017.1406013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial Stem Cell (SSC) expansion in vitro remains a major challenge in efforts to preserve fertility among pubertal cancer survivor boys. The current study focused on innovative approaches to optimize SSC expansion. Six- to eight-week-old CD-1 murine testicular samples were harvested by mechanical and enzymatic digestion. Cell suspensions were incubated for differential plating (DP). After DP, we established two experiments comparing single vs. repetitive DP (S-DP and R-DP, respectively) until passage 2 (P2) completion. Each experiment included a set of cultures consisting of 5 floating-to-attached cell ratios (5, 10, 15, 20, and 25) and control cultures containing floating cells only. We found similar cell and colony count drops during P0 in both S- and R-DP. During P2, counts increased in S-DP in middle ratios (10, 15, and especially 20) relative to low and high ratios (5 and 25, respectively). Counts dropped extensively in R-DP after passage 2. The superiority of intermediate ratios was demonstrated by enrichment of GFRα1 by qPCR. The optimal ratio of 20 in S-DP contained significantly increased proportions of GFRα1-positive cells (25.8±5.8%) as measured by flow cytometry compared to after DP (1.9±0.7%, p<0.0001), as well as positive immunostaining for GFRα1 and UTF1, with rare Sox9-positive cells. This is the first report of the impact of initial floating-to-attached cell ratios on SSC proliferation in vitro. ABBREVIATIONS SSC: spermatogonial stem cells; DP: differential plating; NOA: non-obstructive azoospermia; MACS: magnetic-activated cells sorting; FACS: fluorescence-activated cells sorting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itai Gat
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
- b Pinchas Borenstein Talpiot Medical Leadership Program , Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer , Ramat Gan , Israel
- c Sackler Medical School, University of Tel Aviv , Israel
| | - Leila Maghen
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | | | | | - Brandon Wyse
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | - Khaled Zohni
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | - Peter Saraz
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | | | - Clifford Librach
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
- d Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology , University of Toronto , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
- e Department of Gynecology , Women's College Hospital , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
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Gat I, Maghen L, Filice M, Wyse B, Zohni K, Jarvi K, Lo KC, Gauthier Fisher A, Librach C. Optimal culture conditions are critical for efficient expansion of human testicular somatic and germ cells in vitro. Fertil Steril 2017; 107:595-605.e7. [PMID: 28259258 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To optimize culture conditions for human testicular somatic cells (TSCs) and spermatogonial stem cells. DESIGN Basic science study. SETTING Urology clinic and stem cell research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Eight human testicular samples. INTERVENTIONS(S) Testicular tissues were processed by mechanical and enzymatic digestion. Cell suspensions were subjected to differential plating (DP) after which floating cells (representing germ cells) were removed and attached cells (representing TSCs) were cultured for 2 passages (P0-P1) in StemPro-34- or DMEM-F12-based medium. Germ cell cultures were established in both media for 12 days. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) TSC cultures: proliferation doubling time (PDT), fluorescence-activated cell sorting for CD90, next-generation sequencing for 89 RNA transcripts, immunocytochemistry for TSC and germ cell markers, and conditioned media analysis; germ cell cultures: number of aggregates. RESULT(S) TSCs had significantly prolonged PDT in DMEM-F12 versus StemPro-34 (319.6 ± 275.8 h and 110.5 ± 68.3 h, respectively). The proportion of CD90-positive cells increased after P1 in StemPro-34 and DMEM-F12 (90.1 ± 10.8% and 76.5 ± 17.4%, respectively) versus after DP (66.3 ± 7%). Samples from both media after P1 clustered closely in the principle components analysis map whereas those after DP did not. After P1 in either medium, CD90-positive cells expressed TSC markers only, and fibroblast growth factor 2 and bone morphogenetic protein 4 were detected in conditioned medium. A higher number of germ cell aggregates formed in DMEM-F12 (59 ± 39 vs. 28 ± 17, respectively). CONCLUSION(S) Use of DMEM-F12 reduces TSC proliferation while preserving their unique characteristics, leading to improved germ cell aggregates formation compared with StemPro-34, the standard basal medium used in the majority of previous reports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itai Gat
- Create Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Pinchas Borenstein Talpiot Medical Leadership Program, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel; Sackler school of medicine, Tel Aviv university, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Leila Maghen
- Create Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Brandon Wyse
- Create Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Khaled Zohni
- Create Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Reproductive Health and Family Planning, National Research Center, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Keith Jarvi
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kirk C Lo
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Clifford Librach
- Create Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Update on fertility restoration from prepubertal spermatogonial stem cells: How far are we from clinical practice? Stem Cell Res 2017; 21:171-177. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2017.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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Shlush E, Maghen L, Swanson S, Kenigsberg S, Moskovtsev S, Barretto T, Gauthier-Fisher A, Librach CL. In vitro generation of Sertoli-like and haploid spermatid-like cells from human umbilical cord perivascular cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2017; 8:37. [PMID: 28202061 PMCID: PMC5312448 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-017-0491-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND First trimester (FTM) and term human umbilical cord-derived perivascular cells (HUCPVCs), which are rich sources of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), can give rise to Sertoli cell (SC)-like as well as haploid germ cell (GC)-like cells in vitro using culture conditions that recapitulate the testicular niche. Gamete-like cells have been produced ex vivo using pluripotent stem cells as well as MSCs. However, the production of functional gametes from human stem cells has yet to be achieved. METHODS Three independent lines of FTM and term HUCPVCs were cultured using a novel 5-week step-wise in vitro differentiation protocol recapitulating key physiological signals involved in testicular development. SC- and GC-associated phenotypical properties were assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), quantitative PCR immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, and fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH). Functional spermatogonial stem cell-like properties were assessed using a xenotranplantation assay. RESULTS Within 3 weeks of differentiation, two morphologically distinct cell types emerged including large adherent cells and semi-attached round cells. Both early GC-associated markers (VASA, DAZL, GPR125, GFR1α) and SC-associated markers (FSHR, SOX9, AMH) were upregulated, and 5.7 ± 1.2% of these cells engrafted near the inner basal membrane in a xenograft assay. After 5 weeks in culture, 10-30% of the cells were haploid, had adopted a spermatid-like morphology, and expressed PRM1, Acrosin, and ODF2. Undifferentiated HUCPVCs secreted key factors known to regulate spermatogenesis (LIF, GDNF, BMP4, bFGF) and 10-20% of HUCPVCs co-expressed SSEA4, CD9, CD90, and CD49f. We hypothesize that the paracrine properties and cellular heterogeneity of HUCPVCs may explain their dual capacity to differentiate to both SC- and GC-like cells. CONCLUSIONS HUCPVCs recapitulate elements of the testicular niche including their ability to differentiate into cells with Sertoli-like and haploid spermatid-like properties in vitro. Our study supports the importance of generating a niche-like environment under ex vivo conditions aiming at creating mature GC, and highlights the plasticity of HUCPVCs. This could have future applications for the treatment of some cases of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Shlush
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5N 1G8, Canada.
| | - Leila Maghen
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5N 1G8, Canada
| | - Sonja Swanson
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5N 1G8, Canada
| | - Shlomit Kenigsberg
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5N 1G8, Canada
| | - Sergey Moskovtsev
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5N 1G8, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tanya Barretto
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5N 1G8, Canada
| | | | - Clifford L Librach
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5N 1G8, Canada. .,Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. .,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. .,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. .,Department of Gynecology, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Maghen L, Shlush E, Gat I, Filice M, Barretto T, Jarvi K, Lo K, Gauthier-Fisher AS, Librach CL. Human umbilical perivascular cells: a novel source of MSCs to support testicular niche regeneration. Reproduction 2016; 153:REP-16-0220. [PMID: 27780883 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The expansion of functional testicular biopsy-derived human spermatogonial stem cells (hSSC) ex-vivo may enable the restoration of fertility in pre-pubertal males having undergone gonadotoxic therapies or men with severe male factor infertility. Various somatic cells are known to regulate SSC homeostasis and spermatogenesis in the developing and adult testis. Prior attempts to recapitulate this niche demonstrated the requirement of feeder cells, such as endogenous testicular somatic cells, for germ cell expansion ex-vivo. However, this strategy has limitations for the expansion of hSSCs from tissue biopsies where spermatogenesis is absent or defective. Our aim was to evaluate first trimester human umbilical cord perivascular cells (FTM HUCPVCs), a novel source of mesenchymal stromal-like cells (MSCs), as potential human feeder cells for standardized hSSC expansion ex-vivo. Targeted RNA sequencing analysis demonstrated that CD90+ve FTM HUCPVCs expanded in vitro under germ cell culture conditions express a profile of targeted testicular-associated transcripts that is similar to cultured human CD90+ve testicular adherent cells (hTACs) and secrete LIF, FGF2 and BMP4, key growth factors known to regulate spermatogenesis. We also demonstrated that mitotically-inactivated FTM HUCPVCs support the expansion of mouse germ cells and putative SSCs ex-vivo, and that FTM HUCPVC transplantation promotes in vivo germ cell regeneration following mono-2- ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP)-induced seminiferous tubule damage in a murine model, including a partial reconstitution of tubular cellular architecture and reestablishment of DAZL and acrosin+ve germ cell layers. Together, these data suggest that FTM HUCPVCs have phenotypical and functional properties that may support repair of the human testicular niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Maghen
- L Maghen, Research, CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Itai Gat
- I Gat, Research, CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Melissa Filice
- M Filice, Research, CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tanya Barretto
- T Barretto, Research, CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Keith Jarvi
- K Jarvi, Urology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kirk Lo
- K Lo, Urology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Clifford L Librach
- C Librach, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Yamada M, De Chiara L, Seandel M. Spermatogonial Stem Cells: Implications for Genetic Disorders and Prevention. Stem Cells Dev 2016; 25:1483-1494. [PMID: 27596369 PMCID: PMC5035912 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2016.0210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) propagate mammalian spermatogenesis throughout male reproductive life by continuously self-renewing and differentiating, ultimately, into sperm. SSCs can be cultured for long periods and restore spermatogenesis upon transplantation back into the native microenvironment in vivo. Conventionally, SSC research has been focused mainly on male infertility and, to a lesser extent, on cell reprogramming. With the advent of genome-wide sequencing technology, however, human studies have uncovered a wide range of pathogenic alleles that arise in the male germ line. A subset of de novo point mutations was shown to originate in SSCs and cause congenital disorders in children. This review describes both monogenic diseases (eg, Apert syndrome) and complex disorders that are either known or suspected to be driven by mutations in SSCs. We propose that SSC culture is a suitable model for studying the origin and mechanisms of these diseases. Lastly, we discuss strategies for future clinical implementation of SSC-based technology, from detecting mutation burden by sperm screening to gene correction in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makiko Yamada
- Joan and Sanford I Weill Medical College of Cornell University, 12295, Surgery, New York, New York, United States ;
| | - Letizia De Chiara
- Joan and Sanford I Weill Medical College of Cornell University, 12295, Surgery, New York, New York, United States ;
| | - Marco Seandel
- Joan and Sanford I Weill Medical College of Cornell University, 12295, Surgery, New York, New York, United States ;
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Galuppo AG. Spermatogonial stem cells as a therapeutic alternative for fertility preservation of prepubertal boys. EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2016; 13:637-9. [PMID: 26761559 PMCID: PMC4878644 DOI: 10.1590/s1679-45082015rb3456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells, which exist in the testicles since birth, are progenitors cells of male gametes. These cells are critical for the process of spermatogenesis, and not able to produce mature sperm cells before puberty due to their dependency of hormonal stimuli. This characteristic of the reproductive system limits the preservation of fertility only to males who are able to produce an ejaculate. This fact puts some light on the increase in survival rates of childhood cancer over the past decades because of improvements in the diagnosis and effective treatment in pediatric cancer patients. Therefore, we highlight one of the most important challenges concerning male fertility preservation that is the toxic effect of cancer therapy on reproductive function, especially the spermatogenesis. Currently, the experimental alternative for fertility preservation of prepubertal boys is the testicular tissue cryopreservationfor, for future isolation and spermatogonial stem cells transplantation, in order to restore the spermatogenesis. We present a brief review on isolation, characterization and culture conditions for the in vitro proliferation of spermatogonial stem cells, as well as the future perspectives as an alternative for fertility preservation in prepubertal boys. The possibility of restoring male fertility constitutes a research tool with an huge potential in basic and applied science. The development of these techniques may be a hope for the future of fertility preservation in cases that no other options exist, e.g, pediatric cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Giannotti Galuppo
- Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Hussein AA, Tran ND, Smith JF. Fertility preservation for boys and adolescents facing sterilizing medical therapy. Transl Androl Urol 2016; 3:382-90. [PMID: 26816794 PMCID: PMC4708141 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2223-4683.2014.11.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Improvements in childhood cancer survival have allowed boys and their families to increasingly focus on quality of life after therapy, particularly their future ability to father children. Treatments should maintain comprehensive cancer care goals and consider the long-term quality of life of these children. While semen cryopreservation is a well-established method of fertility preservation for post-pubertal children, the use of cryopreserved pre-treatment testicular tissue represents a promising, yet experimental method of fertility preservation for prepubertal males facing sterilizing therapy. Healthcare providers should counsel families about the fertility risks of therapy, discuss or refer patients for standard fertility preservation options, and consider experimental approaches to fertility preservation while being mindful of the ethical questions these treatments raise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A Hussein
- 1 Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA ; 2 Department of Urology, Cairo University, Egypt ; 3 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA ; 4 Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nam D Tran
- 1 Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA ; 2 Department of Urology, Cairo University, Egypt ; 3 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA ; 4 Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - James F Smith
- 1 Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA ; 2 Department of Urology, Cairo University, Egypt ; 3 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA ; 4 Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Testicular biopsy and cryopreservation for fertility preservation of prepubertal boys with Klinefelter syndrome: a pro/con debate. Fertil Steril 2015; 105:249-55. [PMID: 26748226 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In about one-half of adult Klinefelter syndrome (KS) patients, spermatozoa can be retrieved by means of testicular biopsy (TESE). Given the expected increase in the number of diagnosed KS patients owing to the use of noninvasive prenatal testing, the probable questions of young KS patients and their parents regarding future fertility, and the fact that widespread apoptosis of spermatogonia occurs at onset of puberty, an attempt to increase the retrieval rates at TESE above those found in adult KS men by undertaking preservation techniques peripubertally has been initiated. To date, however, only a limited number of KS adolescents have been examined, demonstrating no increases in the chances of finding sperm. Furthermore, spermatogonial stem cell and testicular tissue freezing techniques, as well as in vitro maturation strategies, require further validation. Given these controversies, banking testicular tissue from prepubertal KS boys should be performed only in a research framework.
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Gassei K, Orwig KE. Experimental methods to preserve male fertility and treat male factor infertility. Fertil Steril 2015; 105:256-66. [PMID: 26746133 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Revised: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a prevalent condition that has insidious impacts on the infertile individuals, their families, and society, which extend far beyond the inability to have a biological child. Lifestyle changes, fertility treatments, and assisted reproductive technology (ART) are available to help many infertile couples achieve their reproductive goals. All of these technologies require that the infertile individual is able to produce at least a small number of functional gametes (eggs or sperm). It is not possible for a person who does not produce gametes to have a biological child. This review focuses on the infertile man and describes several stem cell-based methods and gene therapy approaches that are in the research pipeline and may lead to new fertility treatment options for men with azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Gassei
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cells from Different Sources Diverge in Their Expression of Cell Surface Proteins and Display Distinct Differentiation Patterns. Stem Cells Int 2015; 2016:5646384. [PMID: 26770208 PMCID: PMC4684891 DOI: 10.1155/2016/5646384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Revised: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
When germ-free cell cultures became a laboratory routine, hopes were high for using this novel technology for treatment of diseases or replacement of cells in patients suffering from injury, inflammation, or cancer or even refreshing cells in the elderly. Today, more than 50 years after the first successful bone marrow transplantation, clinical application of hematopoietic stem cells is a routine procedure, saving the lives of many every day. However, transplanting other than hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells is still limited to a few applications, and it mainly applies to mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) isolated from bone marrow. But research progressed and different trials explore the clinical potential of human MSCs isolated from bone marrow but also from other tissues including adipose tissue. Recently, MSCs isolated from bone marrow (bmMSCs) were shown to be a blend of distinct cells and MSCs isolated from different tissues show besides some common features also some significant differences. This includes the expression of distinct antigens on subsets of MSCs, which was utilized recently to define and separate functionally different subsets from bulk MSCs. We therefore briefly discuss differences found in subsets of human bmMSCs and in MSCs isolated from some other sources and touch upon how this could be utilized for cell-based therapies.
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Smith JF, Tran ND. Freezing and thawing testicular cells may not affect growth of cultured testicular cells. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:1129. [PMID: 26342245 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- James F Smith
- Department of Urology, Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Nam D Tran
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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Baert Y, Braye A, Struijk RB, van Pelt AMM, Goossens E. Cryopreservation of testicular tissue before long-term testicular cell culture does not alter in vitro cell dynamics. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:1244-52.e1-4. [PMID: 26260199 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.07.1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether testicular cell dynamics are altered during long-term culture after testicular tissue cryopreservation. DESIGN Experimental basic science study. SETTING Reproductive biology laboratory. PATIENT(S) Testicular tissue with normal spermatogenesis was obtained from six donors. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Detection and comparison of testicular cells from fresh and frozen tissues during long-term culture. RESULT(S) Human testicular cells derived from fresh (n = 3) and cryopreserved (n = 3) tissues were cultured for 2 months and analyzed with quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence. Spermatogonia including spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) were reliably detected by combining VASA, a germ cell marker, with UCHL1, a marker expressed by spermatogonia. The established markers STAR, ACTA2, and SOX9 were used to analyze the presence of Leydig cells, peritubular myoid cells, and Sertoli cells, respectively. No obvious differences were found between the cultures initiated from fresh or cryopreserved tissues. Single or small groups of SSCs (VASA(+)/UCHL1(+)) were detected in considerable amounts up to 1 month of culture, but infrequently after 2 months. SSCs were found attached to the feeder monolayer, which expressed markers for Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and peritubular myoid cells. In addition, VASA(-)/UCHL1(+) cells, most likely originating from the interstitium, also contributed to this monolayer. Apart from Sertoli cells, all somatic cell types could be detected throughout the culture period. CONCLUSION(S) Testicular tissue can be cryopreserved before long-term culture without modifying its outcome, which encourages implementation of testicular tissue banking for fertility preservation. However, because of the limited numbers of SSCs available after 2 months, further exploration and optimization of the culture system is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoni Baert
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Aude Braye
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robin B Struijk
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen Goossens
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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Gies I, De Schepper J, Tournaye H. Progress and prospects for fertility preservation in prepubertal boys with cancer. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2015; 22:203-8. [PMID: 25871958 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In the past few years, options for fertility preservation in prepubescent boys have enlarged tremendously. RECENT FINDINGS After a long period of studies on spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) transplantation in mice, recently successful use of rhesus monkey SSCs for autologous and allogeneic transplantation was demonstrated. Furthermore, newer protocols on transplantation of SSCs back into the testes and on how to mimic the niche environment have been described. Very importantly, a new multiparametric sorting strategy to eliminate cancer contamination from human testis cell suspension has been clarified. SUMMARY While awaiting for more data on safety issues, retrieval and cryopreservation of testicular tissue prior to cancer therapy should be offered, within an experimental context, to prepubertal boys with cancer who are at high risk of fertility loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inge Gies
- aDivision of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics bCentre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel cResearch Group Biology of the Testis, Department of Embryology and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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