1
|
Yu M, Wang F, Li M, Wang Y, Gao X, Zhang H, Liu Z, Zhou Z, Zhao D, Zhang M, Wang L, Jiang H, Qiao Z. Characteristics of the Vasa Gene in Silurus asotus and Its Expression Response to Letrozole Treatment. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:756. [PMID: 38927693 PMCID: PMC11202796 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The identification and expression of germ cells are important for studying sex-related mechanisms in fish. The vasa gene, encoding an ATP-dependent RNA helicase, is recognized as a molecular marker of germ cells and plays a crucial role in germ cell development. Silurus asotus, an important freshwater economic fish species in China, shows significant sex dimorphism with the female growing faster than the male. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these sex differences especially involving in the vasa gene in this fish remain poorly understood. In this work, the vasa gene sequence of S. asotus (named as Savasa) was obtained through RT-PCR and rapid amplification of cDNA end (RACE), and its expression in embryos and tissues was analyzed using qRT-PCR and an in situ hybridization method. Letrozole (LT) treatment on the larvae fish was also conducted to investigate its influence on the gene. The results revealed that the open reading frame (ORF) of Savasa was 1989 bp, encoding 662 amino acids. The SaVasa protein contains 10 conserved domains unique to the DEAD-box protein family, showing the highest sequence identity of 95.92% with that of Silurus meridionalis. In embryos, Savasa is highly expressed from the two-cell stage to the blastula stage in early embryos, with a gradually decreasing trend from the gastrula stage to the heart-beating stage. Furthermore, Savasa was initially detected at the end of the cleavage furrow during the two-cell stage, later condensing into four symmetrical cell clusters with embryonic development. At the gastrula stage, Savasa-positive cells increased and began to migrate towards the dorsal side of the embryo. In tissues, Savasa is predominantly expressed in the ovaries, with almost no or lower expression in other detected tissues. Moreover, Savasa was expressed in phase I-V oocytes in the ovaries, as well as in spermatogonia and spermatocytes in the testis, implying a specific expression pattern of germ cells. In addition, LT significantly upregulated the expression of Savasa in a concentration-dependent manner during the key gonadal differentiation period of the fish. Notably, at 120 dph after LT treatment, Savasa expression was the lowest in the testis and ovary of the high concentration group. Collectively, findings from gene structure, protein sequence, phylogenetic analysis, RNA expression patterns, and response to LT suggest that Savasa is maternally inherited with conserved features, serving as a potential marker gene for germ cells in S.asotus, and might participate in LT-induced early embryonic development and gonadal development processes of the fish. This would provide a basis for further research on the application of germ cell markers and the molecular mechanisms of sex differences in S. asotus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miao Yu
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Henan Province for Aquatic Animal Cultivation, Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; (F.W.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (X.G.); (H.Z.); (Z.L.); (Z.Z.); (M.Z.); (L.W.); (H.J.); (Z.Q.)
| | - Fangyuan Wang
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Henan Province for Aquatic Animal Cultivation, Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; (F.W.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (X.G.); (H.Z.); (Z.L.); (Z.Z.); (M.Z.); (L.W.); (H.J.); (Z.Q.)
| | - Muzi Li
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Henan Province for Aquatic Animal Cultivation, Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; (F.W.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (X.G.); (H.Z.); (Z.L.); (Z.Z.); (M.Z.); (L.W.); (H.J.); (Z.Q.)
| | - Yuan Wang
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Henan Province for Aquatic Animal Cultivation, Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; (F.W.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (X.G.); (H.Z.); (Z.L.); (Z.Z.); (M.Z.); (L.W.); (H.J.); (Z.Q.)
| | - Xiangzhe Gao
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Henan Province for Aquatic Animal Cultivation, Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; (F.W.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (X.G.); (H.Z.); (Z.L.); (Z.Z.); (M.Z.); (L.W.); (H.J.); (Z.Q.)
| | - Hanhan Zhang
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Henan Province for Aquatic Animal Cultivation, Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; (F.W.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (X.G.); (H.Z.); (Z.L.); (Z.Z.); (M.Z.); (L.W.); (H.J.); (Z.Q.)
| | - Zhenzhu Liu
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Henan Province for Aquatic Animal Cultivation, Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; (F.W.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (X.G.); (H.Z.); (Z.L.); (Z.Z.); (M.Z.); (L.W.); (H.J.); (Z.Q.)
| | - Zhicheng Zhou
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Henan Province for Aquatic Animal Cultivation, Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; (F.W.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (X.G.); (H.Z.); (Z.L.); (Z.Z.); (M.Z.); (L.W.); (H.J.); (Z.Q.)
| | - Daoquan Zhao
- Yiluo River Aquatic Biology Field Scientific Observation and Research Station in the Yellow River Basin of Henan Province, Lushi, Sanmenxia City 472200, China;
| | - Meng Zhang
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Henan Province for Aquatic Animal Cultivation, Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; (F.W.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (X.G.); (H.Z.); (Z.L.); (Z.Z.); (M.Z.); (L.W.); (H.J.); (Z.Q.)
| | - Lei Wang
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Henan Province for Aquatic Animal Cultivation, Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; (F.W.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (X.G.); (H.Z.); (Z.L.); (Z.Z.); (M.Z.); (L.W.); (H.J.); (Z.Q.)
| | - Hongxia Jiang
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Henan Province for Aquatic Animal Cultivation, Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; (F.W.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (X.G.); (H.Z.); (Z.L.); (Z.Z.); (M.Z.); (L.W.); (H.J.); (Z.Q.)
| | - Zhigang Qiao
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Henan Province for Aquatic Animal Cultivation, Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; (F.W.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (X.G.); (H.Z.); (Z.L.); (Z.Z.); (M.Z.); (L.W.); (H.J.); (Z.Q.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Blanes-García M, Marinović Z, Herranz-Jusdado JG, Xie X, Ferrão L, Gallego V, Pérez L, Baloch AR, Horváth Á, Pšenička M, Asturiano JF, Morini M. Characterization of potential spermatogonia biomarker genes in the European eel (Anguilla anguilla). FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2024:10.1007/s10695-024-01338-1. [PMID: 38639895 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-024-01338-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Identification of specific molecular markers for spermatogonial stem cells in teleost is crucial for enhancing the efficacy of reproductive biotechnologies in aquaculture, such as transplantation and surrogate production in fishes. Since it is not yet possible to distinguish spermatogonial stem cells of European eel (Anguilla anguilla) using specific molecular markers, we isolated spermatogonial cells from immature European eels to find these potential markers. We attempted this by studying three candidate genes: vasa, nanos2, and dnd1. Two vasa (vasa1 and vasa2) genes, nanos2, and dnd1 were identified, characterized, and studied in the muscle, testis, and isolated spermatogonia. Our results showed that vasa1 and vasa2 had the highest levels of expression when measured by qPCR. In situ hybridization and immunochemistry assays showed that the four genes were localized explicitly in type A spermatogonia. However, vasa1 and vasa2 exhibited stronger signals in the immature testicular tissue than the other two potential markers. According to this, vasa1 and vasa2 were found to be the most effective markers for spermatogonial cells in the European eel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Blanes-García
- Grupo de Acuicultura y Biodiversidad, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Animal, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/N, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - Zoran Marinović
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Páter Károly U. 1, 2100, Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Juan Germán Herranz-Jusdado
- Grupo de Acuicultura y Biodiversidad, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Animal, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/N, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - Xuan Xie
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Zátiší 728/II, 389 25, Vodňany, Czech Republic
| | - Leonor Ferrão
- Grupo de Acuicultura y Biodiversidad, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Animal, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/N, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - Victor Gallego
- Grupo de Acuicultura y Biodiversidad, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Animal, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/N, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - Luz Pérez
- Grupo de Acuicultura y Biodiversidad, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Animal, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/N, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - Abdul Rasheed Baloch
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Zátiší 728/II, 389 25, Vodňany, Czech Republic
| | - Ákos Horváth
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Páter Károly U. 1, 2100, Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Martin Pšenička
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Zátiší 728/II, 389 25, Vodňany, Czech Republic
| | - Juan F Asturiano
- Grupo de Acuicultura y Biodiversidad, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Animal, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/N, 46022, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Marina Morini
- Grupo de Acuicultura y Biodiversidad, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Animal, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera S/N, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cui H, Zhu H, Ban W, Li Y, Chen R, Li L, Zhang X, Chen K, Xu H. Characterization of Two Gonadal Genes, zar1 and wt1b, in Hermaphroditic Fish Asian Seabass ( Lates calcarifer). Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:508. [PMID: 38338151 PMCID: PMC10854929 DOI: 10.3390/ani14030508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Zygote arrest-1 (Zar1) and Wilms' tumor 1 (Wt1) play an important role in oogenesis, with the latter also involved in testicular development and gender differentiation. Here, Lczar1 and Lcwt1b were identified in Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer), a hermaphrodite fish, as the valuable model for studying sex differentiation. The cloned cDNA fragments of Lczar1 were 1192 bp, encoding 336 amino acids, and contained a zinc-binding domain, while those of Lcwt1b cDNA were 1521 bp, encoding a peptide of 423 amino acids with a Zn finger domain belonging to Wt1b family. RT-qPCR analysis showed that Lczar1 mRNA was exclusively expressed in the ovary, while Lcwt1b mRNA was majorly expressed in the gonads in a higher amount in the testis than in the ovary. In situ hybridization results showed that Lczar1 mRNA was mainly concentrated in oogonia and oocytes at early stages in the ovary, but were undetectable in the testis. Lcwt1b mRNA was localized not only in gonadal somatic cells (the testis and ovary), but also in female and male germ cells in the early developmental stages, such as those of previtellogenic oocytes, spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids. These results indicated that Lczar1 and Lcwt1b possibly play roles in gonadal development. Therefore, the findings of this study will provide a basis for clarifying the mechanism of Lczar1 and Lcwt1b in regulating germ cell development and the sex reversal of Asian seabass and even other hermaphroditic species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Han Cui
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Fisheries, Southwest University, Chongqing 402460, China; (H.C.); (H.Z.); (W.B.); (Y.L.); (R.C.); (L.L.); (X.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Chongqing 400715, China
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Sciences of Chongqing, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Haoyu Zhu
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Fisheries, Southwest University, Chongqing 402460, China; (H.C.); (H.Z.); (W.B.); (Y.L.); (R.C.); (L.L.); (X.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Chongqing 400715, China
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Sciences of Chongqing, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Wenzhuo Ban
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Fisheries, Southwest University, Chongqing 402460, China; (H.C.); (H.Z.); (W.B.); (Y.L.); (R.C.); (L.L.); (X.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Chongqing 400715, China
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Sciences of Chongqing, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yulin Li
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Fisheries, Southwest University, Chongqing 402460, China; (H.C.); (H.Z.); (W.B.); (Y.L.); (R.C.); (L.L.); (X.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Chongqing 400715, China
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Sciences of Chongqing, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Ruyi Chen
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Fisheries, Southwest University, Chongqing 402460, China; (H.C.); (H.Z.); (W.B.); (Y.L.); (R.C.); (L.L.); (X.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Chongqing 400715, China
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Sciences of Chongqing, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Lingli Li
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Fisheries, Southwest University, Chongqing 402460, China; (H.C.); (H.Z.); (W.B.); (Y.L.); (R.C.); (L.L.); (X.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Chongqing 400715, China
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Sciences of Chongqing, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Xiaoling Zhang
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Fisheries, Southwest University, Chongqing 402460, China; (H.C.); (H.Z.); (W.B.); (Y.L.); (R.C.); (L.L.); (X.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Chongqing 400715, China
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Sciences of Chongqing, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Kaili Chen
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Fisheries, Southwest University, Chongqing 402460, China; (H.C.); (H.Z.); (W.B.); (Y.L.); (R.C.); (L.L.); (X.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Chongqing 400715, China
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Sciences of Chongqing, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Hongyan Xu
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Fisheries, Southwest University, Chongqing 402460, China; (H.C.); (H.Z.); (W.B.); (Y.L.); (R.C.); (L.L.); (X.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Chongqing 400715, China
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Sciences of Chongqing, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400715, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Vasa Is a Potential Germ Cell Marker in Leopard Coral Grouper ( Plectropomus leopardus). Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13061077. [PMID: 35741839 PMCID: PMC9222667 DOI: 10.3390/genes13061077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasa (Ddx4, DEAD box polypeptide 4), an extremely specific marker of germ cells in vivo, is an ATP-dependent RNA helicase that plays an essential role in germ cell development and gametogenesis. However, the expression and function information about this gene in groupers remains lacking. Here, vasa homolog termed Plvasa was isolated and identified Plvasa as a putative germ cell marker in the leopard coral grouper, (Plectropomus leopardus). Results indicated that Plvasa contained 17 exons in the genomic sequence and 9 conserved motifs of the DEAD-box protein by sequence analysis. The sequence comparison, phylogenetic analyses and synteny analyses showed that Plvasa was homologous with other teleosts. Additionally, the expression of Plvasa was significantly higher in gonads than in other tissues in adult individuals (p < 0.05). Further, the distribution of Plvasa revealed that it was only expressed in the germ cells, such as spermatids, germline stem cells and oocytes at different stages, and could not be detected in the somatic cells of gonads. The current study verified that the Plvasa gene is a valuable molecular marker of germ cells in leopard coral grouper, which potentially plays an important role in investigating the genesis and development of teleost germ cells.
Collapse
|
5
|
Cloning and Expression Profiling of the Gene vasa during First Annual Gonadal Development of Cobia (Rachycentron canadum). FISHES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/fishes7020060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The vasa gene is essential for germ cell development and gametogenesis both in vertebrates and in invertebrates. In the present study, vasa (Rcvasa) cDNA was cloned from cobia (Rachycentron canadum) using the RACE amplification method. We found that the full-length cDNA sequence of Rcvasa comprises 2571 bp, containing a 5′-UTR of 145 bp, a 3′-UTR of 341 bp, and an open reading frame (ORF) of 2085 bp, encoding a protein of 694 aa. The deduced amino acid sequence contains 8 conserved motifs of the DEAD-box protein family, 7 RGG repeats, and 10 RG repeats in the N-terminal region. Comparisons of the deduced amino acid sequence with those of other teleosts revealed the highest percentage identity (86.0%) with Seriola quinqueradiata. By using semiquantitative RT-PCR, Rcvasa appeared to be specifically expressed in the testis and ovary, among 13 tissues analyzed. In addition, annual changes in Rcvasa expression levels were examined in the gonads by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The expression of Rcvasa in the testis first increased significantly at 120 dph (stage II–III), then stabilized as the testis developed from 185 dph (stage III) to 360 dph (stage V). During the development of the ovary (stage I to II), the expression of Rcvasa first increased and reached the highest level at 210 dph (stage II), then decreased. Furthermore, the results of chromogenic in situ hybridization (CISH) revealed that Rcvasa mRNA was mainly expressed in germ cells and barely detected in somatic cells. In the testis, Rcvasa mRNA signal was concentrated in the periphery of spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes, and secondary spermatocytes and was significantly weaker in spermatids and spermatozoa. In the ovary, Rcvasa mRNA signal was uniformly distributed in the perinuclear cytoplasm and was intense in early primary oocytes (stage I and II). These findings could provide a reference for understanding the regulatory mechanisms of vasa expression during the development of germ cells in cobia.
Collapse
|
6
|
Ichida K, Jangprai A, Khaosa-Art P, Yoshizaki G, Boonanuntanasarn S. Characterization of a vasa homolog in Mekong giant catfish (Pangasianodon gigas): Potential use as a germ cell marker. Anim Reprod Sci 2021; 234:106869. [PMID: 34656888 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
For the long-term preservation of the genetic resources of endangered fish species, a combination of germ cell cryopreservation and transplantation can be an effective technique. To optimize these techniques, it is important to identify undifferentiated germ cells possessing transplantability, such as primordial germ cells, type A spermatogonia (ASGs), and oogonia. In this study, a homolog of vasa cDNA in Mekong giant catfish (MGC-vasa) (Pangasianodon gigas), which is an endangered species inhabiting the Mekong river, was cloned and characterized for use as a putative germ cell marker. Results indicate that MGC-Vasa contained all of the consensus motifs, including the arginine-glycine and arginine-glycine-glycine motifs, as well as the nine conserved motifs belonging to the DEAD-box family of proteins. Results from phylogenetic analysis indicated MGC-vasa also grouped with Vasa and was clearly distinguishable from Pl10 in other teleosts. Results from analysis of abundance of mRNA transcripts using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and in situ hybridization performed on immature Mekong giant catfish testis indicated vasa was present specifically in germ cells, with large abundances of the relevant mRNA in spermatogonia and spermatocytes. Sequence similarity and the specific localization of MGC-vasa in these germ cells suggest that the sequence ascertained in this study was a vasa homolog in Mekong giant catfish. Furthermore, vasa-positive cells were detected in prepared smears of testicular cells, indicating that it may be a useful germ cell marker for enzymatically dissociated cells used for transplantation studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kensuke Ichida
- Institute for Reproductive Biotechnology for Aquatic Species (IRBAS), Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 4-5-7 Konan Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan
| | - Araya Jangprai
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
| | - Pongsawan Khaosa-Art
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
| | - Goro Yoshizaki
- Institute for Reproductive Biotechnology for Aquatic Species (IRBAS), Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 4-5-7 Konan Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan; Department of Marine Biosciences, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 4-5-7 Konan Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan
| | - Surintorn Boonanuntanasarn
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Identification and characterization of germ cell genes vasa and dazl in a protogynous hermaphrodite fish, orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides). Gene Expr Patterns 2020; 35:119095. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2020.119095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2019] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
8
|
Immunohistochemical Detection of Vasa Antigen and Apoptosis-Related DNA Fragmentation in Ovaries of Sheep Fetuses Prenatally Exposed to Vitamin D Deficiency. ACTA VET-BEOGRAD 2019. [DOI: 10.2478/acve-2019-0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The primordial germ cells (PGCs) in female animals are comprised of diplotene oocytes arrested in the first meiotic prophase. Expression of Vasa is one of the key factors required for subsequent resumption of development and recruitment of PGCs into the growing follicle class. Since vitamin D regulates recruitment of PGCs and developmental competence of ovarian follicles, this study was designed to investigate the expression of Vasa and rate of apoptosis in foetal ovaries prenatally restricted from dietary vitamin D. Nineteen sexually mature Welsh mountain ewes were randomly assigned to vitamin D deficient (VDD) and vitamin D control (VDC) diets from 17d before mating, up to 125d of gestation, when fetal ovaries were collected and fixed in formalin for immunohistochemistry and TUNEL assay. VDD ovaries had fewer healthy oocytes that could stain positive for Vasa as well as a lower integrated density value for DAB staining intensity. Conversely, TUNNEL staining in VDD animals showed a higher integrated density value and percentage of affected area (P<0.05). The present findings indicate that Vasa expression is decreased, while the rate of apoptosis increased in VDD fetal ovaries, and this may adversely affect resumption of growth and development of PGCs reserve.
Collapse
|
9
|
Ovarian transcriptome analysis of Mactra chinensis provides insights into genes expressed during the intermediate and ripening stages. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 208:106078. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
10
|
Li Y, Song W, Zhu YF, Zhu TY, Ma LB, Li MY. Evolutionarily conserved vasa identifies embryonic and gonadal germ cells in spinyhead croaker Collichthys lucidus. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2019; 94:772-780. [PMID: 30873617 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.13964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In this study, a 2198 bp full-length cDNA of spinyhead croaker Collichthys lucidus vasa gene encoding 616 amino-acid residues was obtained. Multiple alignment revealed that C. lucidus vasa has eight conserved characteristic motifs of the DEAD box protein family and has the highest identity to large yellow croaker Larimichthys croceas. Reverse-transcription (RT)-PCR and Western blot analyses indicated that the vasa messenger (m)RNA and Vasa protein are specifically expressed in the gonads in both sexes. In situ hybridisation (ISH) demonstrated that vasa RNA is exclusively detected in the germ cells in C. lucidus gonads and its temporospatial expression reveals a dynamic pattern during oogenesis. Surprisingly, C. lucidus vasa 3'UTR can direct stable and specific GFP expression in the primordial germ cells (PGC) of medaka Oryzias latipes embryos. Taken together, these results suggest that because C. lucidus vasa expression delineates critical stages of oogenesis, it may be a useful molecular marker for the identification of gonadal germ cells, facilitating the isolation and utilization of germ cells in future study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Li
- Key Laboratory of East China Sea & Oceanic Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, East China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Song
- Key Laboratory of East China Sea & Oceanic Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, East China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yei Fei Zhu
- Key Laboratory of East China Sea & Oceanic Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, East China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tian Yu Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Bo Ma
- Key Laboratory of East China Sea & Oceanic Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, East China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming You Li
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Khieokhajonkhet A, Aeksiri N, Kaneko G. Molecular characterization and homology modeling of liver X receptor in Asian seabass, Lates calcarifer: predicted functions in reproduction and lipid metabolism. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2019; 45:523-538. [PMID: 30806874 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-019-00617-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Liver X receptor (LXR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that plays vital roles in maintaining cholesterol and lipid homeostasis. Much work has been done on mammalian LXRs, but the role of LXR in fish remains unclear. In the present study, LXR gene was identified from adult Asian seabass, Lates calcarifer, and its predicted protein structure was docked with several cholesterol derivatives at the binding site. The LXR cDNA consisted of 1495 bp encoding a putative LXR protein of 494 amino acids. The Asian seabass LXR retained many important structural features found in LXRs of other fishes and mammals, such as putative signal peptide, activation function-1 (AF-1) domain, DNA-binding domain (DBD), ligand-binding domain (LBD), activation function-2 (AF-2) domain, and eight conserved cysteine residues. The deduced amino acid sequence of LXR shared significant identity with those of other species ranging from 65.7 to 95.8%. The homology modeling and in silico molecular docking demonstrated that Asian seabass LXR could interact with cholesterol derivatives at amino acid residues Phe274 and Ile312. Real-time PCR further revealed that LXR transcripts are ubiquitously expressed in all tissues examined, with the highest levels detected in the gonad followed by the liver. Given the well-known importance of cholesterol-mediated signaling in these tissues, Asian seabass LXR may reasonably be involved in reproduction and lipid metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anurak Khieokhajonkhet
- Center for Agriculture Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Environment, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Environment, Naresuan University, 99 M. 1, T. Thapo, A. Muang, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Niran Aeksiri
- Center for Agriculture Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Environment, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Environment, Naresuan University, 99 M. 1, T. Thapo, A. Muang, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Gen Kaneko
- School of Arts and Sciences, University of Houston-Victoria, 3007 N. Ben Wilson, Victoria, TX, 77901, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wu X, Qu L, Li S, Guo Y, He J, Liu M, Liu X, Lin H. Molecular characterization and expression patterns of stem-loop binding protein (SLBP) genes in protogynous hermaphroditic grouper, Epinephelus coioides. Gene 2019; 700:120-130. [PMID: 30910559 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2019.02.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Stem-loop binding protein (SLBP) binds a stem-loop structure of the mRNA, which is important for the stability of histone mRNAs and translation process. In the present study, two slbp cDNAs (Ecslbp1 and Ecslbp2) were cloned from a protogynous hermaphroditic orange-spotted grouper, Epinephelus coioides. Ecslbp1 cDNA contained a 678 base pair (bp) open reading frame (ORF), encoding a predicted polypeptide of 225 amino acids. Ecslbp2 cDNA contained a 1041 bp, encoding a predicted protein of 346 amino acids. The result of real-time PCR revealed that Ecslbp2 mRNA was exclusively detected in the ovary. Moreover, it was found to be restricted to oocytes according to in situ hybridization (ISH) analysis. Ecslbp2 was found to be hardly detected in gonia and significantly increase in the cytoplasm of primary-growth stage oocytes, but decreased during the process of vitellogenesis. Interestingly, Ecslbp2 expression centralized as a perinuclear speckle in early-primary-growth stage oocytes, which appeared to form into the Balbiani body (Bb) in late-primary-growth stage oocytes. These data indicated that Ecslbp2 might play an important role in the process of oocyte development, and could serve as an oocyte-specific molecular marker for the study of ovary development and sex reversal in groupers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Improved Variety Reproduction of Aquatic Economic Animals, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Ling Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Improved Variety Reproduction of Aquatic Economic Animals, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Shuisheng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Improved Variety Reproduction of Aquatic Economic Animals, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Yin Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Improved Variety Reproduction of Aquatic Economic Animals, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jianan He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Improved Variety Reproduction of Aquatic Economic Animals, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Meifeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Improved Variety Reproduction of Aquatic Economic Animals, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Xiaochun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Improved Variety Reproduction of Aquatic Economic Animals, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Haoran Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Improved Variety Reproduction of Aquatic Economic Animals, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Liu W, Zhang H, Xiang Y, Jia K, Luo M, Yi M. Molecular characterization of vasa homologue in marbled goby, Oxyeleotris marmorata: Transcription and localization analysis during gametogenesis and embryogenesis. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 229:42-50. [PMID: 30590176 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2018.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Identification of germ cell markers is important for investigating reproduction biology in fish. Vasa is one of the most studied germ cell markers in mammals and lower vertebrates including fish. Here, we characterized a vasa homologue from the fish marbled goby (Oxyeleotris marmorata), termed omvasa. The full length of omvasa cDNA is 2344 bp and encodes 658 amino acids, sharing high identities with Vasa homologues of other vertebrates. OmVasa protein contains 15 RG/RGG repeats at N-terminus, 2 ATPase motifs, as well as RNA unwinding and RNA binding domains at C-terminus. Phylogenetic tree showed that omVasa had the closest relationship with the Vasa homologue from the fish Boleophthalmus pectinirostris, the great blue-spotted mudskipper. qRT-PCR analysis indicated that omvasa was specifically transcribed in gonads, and the transcription level was gradually increased during oocyte development. The germ cell-specific distribution of omvasa mRNA was revealed by fluorescent in situ hybridization. In ovary, the signal of omvasa RNA displayed strong-weak-strong dynamics from oogonia over pre-vitellogenic oocytes to vitellogenic oocytes. In testis, omvasa signal was strong in spermatogonia, modest in spermatocytes but undetectable in spermatids and somatic cells. During embryogenesis, the transcription of omvasa mRNA was high at blastula stage, gradually decreased from gastrula stage and maintained at a low level in later developmental stages. Whole mount in situ hybridization indicated that omvasa mRNA was specific to primordial germ cells (PGCs). In summary, marbled goby vasa is a germ cell-specific transcript during gametogenesis, and can be used as an ideal marker for tracing PGC formation and migration, which is pivotal to germ cell manipulation in this species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong, China
| | - Yangxi Xiang
- Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong, China
| | - Kuntong Jia
- Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingfei Luo
- Zhuhai Modern Agriculture Development Center, Guangdong, China.
| | - Meisheng Yi
- Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhao Y, Yang Z, Wang Y, Luo Y, Da F, Tao W, Zhou L, Wang D, Wei J. Both Gfrα1a and Gfrα1b Are Involved in the Self-renewal and Maintenance of Spermatogonial Stem Cells in Medaka. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 27:1658-1670. [PMID: 30319069 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor family receptor alpha-1 (GFRα1) plays a crucial role in the self-renewal and maintenance of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) from mammals. However, to date, our knowledge about its role in fish SSCs is limited. In the present study, the medaka (Oryzias latipes) gfrα1 duplicate genes, Olgfrα1a and Olgfrα1b, were cloned and characterized. Furthermore, their expression profile and biological activity were investigated. OlGfrα1a and OlGfrα1b predict 524 and 466 amino acid residues, respectively. Both are orthologous to mammalian Gfrα1 by sequence analyses and appear high in spermatogonia by in situ hybridization assay. The knockdown of OlGfrα1a and/or OlGfrα1b via Vivo-Morpholino oligos significantly inhibited the self-renewal and maintenance of SSCs, as evidenced by the decreased proliferation activity of SG3 cells (a spermatogonial stem cell line derived from adult medaka testis) as well as spermatogonia in the testicular organ culture and by the decreased survival rate and expression levels of pluripotency-related genes (klf4, lin28b, bcl6b, and etv5) in SG3 cells. Additionally, our study indicates that OlGfrα1a might function by binding either Gdnfa or Gdnfb (the two medaka Gdnf homologs), whereas OlGfrα1b function by binding Gdnfa not Gdnfb. Taken together, our study indicates that both OlGfrα1a and OlGfrα1b are involved in the self-renewal and maintenance of SSCs by binding Gdnfa and/or Gdnfb, respectively. These findings suggest that the GDNF/GFRα1 signaling pathway might be conserved from mammals to fish species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University , Chongqing, China
| | - Zhuo Yang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University , Chongqing, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University , Chongqing, China
| | - Yubing Luo
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University , Chongqing, China
| | - Fan Da
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University , Chongqing, China
| | - Wenjing Tao
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University , Chongqing, China
| | - Linyan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University , Chongqing, China
| | - Deshou Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University , Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Wei
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University , Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li H, Su B, Qin G, Ye Z, Elaswad A, Alsaqufi A, Perera DA, Qin Z, Odin R, Vo K, Drescher D, Robinson D, Dong S, Zhang D, Shang M, Abass N, Das SK, Bangs M, Dunham RA. Repressible Transgenic Sterilization in Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, by Knockdown of Primordial Germ Cell Genes with Copper-Sensitive Constructs. MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2018; 20:324-342. [PMID: 29679251 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-018-9819-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Repressible knockdown approaches were investigated to manipulate for transgenic sterilization in channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus. Two primordial germ cell (PGC) marker genes, nanos and dead end, were targeted for knockdown and an off-target gene, vasa, was monitored. Two potentially copper-sensitive repressible promoters, yeast ctr3 (M) and ctr3-reduced (Mctr), were coupled with four knockdown strategies separately including: ds-sh RNA targeting the 5' end (N1) or 3' end (N2) of channel catfish nanos, full-length cDNA sequence of channel catfish nanos for overexpression (cDNA), and ds-sh RNA-targeting channel catfish dead end (DND). Each construct had an untreated group and treated group with copper sulfate as the repressor compound. Spawning rates of full-sibling P1 fish exposed or not exposed to the constructs as treated and untreated embryos were 85 and 54%, respectively, indicating potential sterilization of fish and repression of the constructs. In F1 fish, mRNA expressions of PGC marker genes for most constructs were downregulated in the untreated group and the knockdown was repressed in the treated group. Gonad development in transgenic, untreated F1 channel catfish was reduced compared to non-transgenic fish for MctrN2, MN1, MN2, and MDND. For 3-year-old adults, gonad size in the transgenic untreated group was 93.4% smaller than the non-transgenic group for females and 92.3% for males. However, mean body weight of transgenic females (781.8 g) and males (883.8 g) was smaller than of non-transgenic counterparts (984.2 and 1254.3 g) at 3 years of age, a 25.8 and 41.9% difference for females and males, respectively. The results indicate that repressible transgenic sterilization is feasible for reproductive control of fish, but negative pleiotropic effects can result.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanbo Li
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Baofeng Su
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
- National and Local United Engineering Laboratory for Freshwater Fish Breeding, Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Harbin, 150070, China
| | - Guyu Qin
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Zhi Ye
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Ahmed Elaswad
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
- Department of Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Alsaqufi
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
- Department of Aquaculture and Animal Production, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dayan A Perera
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
- Research and Development Corporation, Gus R. Douglass Institute, West Virginia State University, Institute, WV, 25112, USA
| | - Zhenkui Qin
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Ramji Odin
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Khoi Vo
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - David Drescher
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Dalton Robinson
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Sheng Dong
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Dan Zhang
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Mei Shang
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
- National and Local United Engineering Laboratory for Freshwater Fish Breeding, Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Harbin, 150070, China
| | - Nermeen Abass
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Sanjay K Das
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
- ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, 793103, India
| | - Max Bangs
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Rex A Dunham
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wu XL, Tang ZK, Li W, Chu ZJ, Hong XY, Zhu XP, Xu HY. Identifying the germ cells during embryogenesis and gametogenesis by germ-line gene vasa in an anadromous fish, American shad Alosa sapidissima. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2018; 92:1422-1434. [PMID: 29573270 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.13595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
American shad Alosa sapidissima, an anadromous clupeid, exhibits variation in reproductive strategies, including semelparity and iteroparity. It provides an excellent model for studying the behaviour of germ cells in anadromous fish during their migration from sea to river. The vasa gene was characterized in A. sapidissima as a germ-cell marker to elaborate the process of germ-cell development and differentiation in anadromous species. A complementary (c)DNA fragment of 819 bp, partial open reading frame (ORF), was cloned by degenerate PCR and named as ASvas. In adult A. sapidissima, vasa transcript was exclusively detected in gonads by reverse-transcription (RT)-PCR. Through chromogenic in situ hybridization, the vasa messenger (m)RNA was specifically detected in primordial germ cells (PGC) in embryos and germ cells at early stages in ovary and testis. Besides, the cellular distribution profile of Vasa protein also proved that vasa gene could be used as a germ-line marker to trace the PGCs migration during embryogenesis and the germ-cell differentiation during gametogenesis in A. sapidissima. During embryogenesis, the migrating PGCs were clearly detected at tail-bud stage and the PGCs reached the genital ridge at the stage of pre-hatching stage in A. sapidissima embryos. During gametogenesis, the Vasa protein was dynamically expressed in differentiating germ cells at different stages in adult gonads. As far as we know, this is the first report to demonstrate the PGCs migration and germ-cell differentiation through vasa gene expression in the anadromous species. The findings will pave a way for investigating germ-cell development and maturation in the A. sapidissima and other anadromous fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- X L Wu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, 510380, China
| | - Z K Tang
- School of Fishery, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, 316022, China
| | - W Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, 510380, China
| | - Z J Chu
- School of Fishery, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, 316022, China
| | - X Y Hong
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, 510380, China
| | - X P Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, 510380, China
| | - H Y Xu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, 510380, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ricci JMB, Martinez ERM, Butzge AJ, Doretto LB, Oliveira MA, Bombardelli RA, Bogerd J, Nóbrega RH. Characterization of vasa homolog in a neotropical catfish, Jundiá (Rhamdia quelen): Molecular cloning and expression analysis during embryonic and larval development. Gene 2018; 654:116-126. [PMID: 29454090 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
We have characterized the full-length vasa cDNA from Jundiá, Rhamdia quelen (Heptapteridae, Siluriformes). vasa encodes a member of the DEAD-box protein family of ATP-dependent RNA helicases. This protein is highly conserved among different organisms and its role is associated with RNA metabolism. In the majority of the investigated species, vasa is restricted to the germ cell lineage and its expression has been used to study germline development in many organisms, including fish. The deduced R. quelen vasa amino acid sequence displayed high similarity with Vasa protein sequences from other organisms, and did not cluster with PL10 or P68 DEAD-box protein subfamilies. We also reported that there is no other isoform for vasa mRNA in R. quelen gonads. Expression analysis by RT-PCR and qPCR showed vasa transcripts exclusively expressed in the germ cells of R. quelen gonads. R. quelen vasa mRNA was maternally inherited, and was detected in the migrating primordial germ cells (PGCs) until 264 h post-fertilization during embryonic and larval development. This work has characterized for the first time the full-length R. quelen vasa cDNA, and describes its expression patterns during R. quelen embryonic and larval development. Our results will contribute to the basic reproductive biology of this native species, and will support studies using vasa as a germ cell marker in different biotechnological studies, such as germ cell transplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliana M B Ricci
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Morphology, Institute of Bioscience of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Emanuel R M Martinez
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Morphology, Institute of Bioscience of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Arno J Butzge
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Morphology, Institute of Bioscience of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas B Doretto
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Morphology, Institute of Bioscience of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcos A Oliveira
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Morphology, Institute of Bioscience of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Robie Allan Bombardelli
- Center of Engineering and Exact Sciences, Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná, Rua da Faculdade 645, 85903-000 Toledo, PR, Brazil
| | - Jan Bogerd
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Utrecht University, Hugo R. Kruyt Building, Padualaan 8, 3584, CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rafael H Nóbrega
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Morphology, Institute of Bioscience of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Transcriptome analysis of three critical periods of ovarian development in Yellow River carp (Cyprinus carpio). Theriogenology 2017; 105:15-26. [PMID: 28923703 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2017] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Ovary development is a complex process involving numerous genes; the molecular mechanism underlying the ovary development of carp is still unknown. Here we used Illumina HiSeq™ 2500 to explore the transcriptome of undifferentiated gland (PG), juvenile ovary (OJ) and adult ovary (OA) of Yellow River carp (Cyprinus carpio). A total of 58,749 unigenes were obtained, comprising 45,707 known genes and 13,042 new genes. We identified differentially-expressed genes (DEGs) during development and characterized the functional properties of DEGs by comparison with the gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes databases. qRT-PCR was used to analyze the expression of 22 DEGs and the results corresponded with those of RNA-Seq. Among DEGs between PG and OJ, some upstream regulators of gonad development were upregulated in PG, such as cyp19a and sox9, while some oocyte-specific genes were upregulated in OJ, such as nobox, bmp15 and zp2. Among DEGs between OJ and OA, many oocyte physiological function-related genes were upregulated in OA, such as fem-1 and foxl2. GO analysis showed a higher number of DEGs from PG-OJ analysis were assigned to reproduction terms. Furthermore, our investigation has also revealed DEGs identified from PG-OJ analysis were enriched in several important functional pathways, such as Fanconi anemia and the notch signal pathway. These data suggested a dynamic shift in gene expression during ovary development, and DEGs between PG and OJ provided crucial candidate gene data for the study of ovarian differentiation. Additionally, a total of 1,776,769 single nucleotide polymorphisms and 157,279 INDEs were revealed from transcriptome data. This result will contribute to knowledge of ovary differentiation of Yellow River carp.
Collapse
|
19
|
Li H, Su B, Qin G, Ye Z, Alsaqufi A, Perera DA, Shang M, Odin R, Vo K, Drescher D, Robinson D, Zhang D, Abass N, Dunham RA. Salt Sensitive Tet-Off-Like Systems to Knockdown Primordial Germ Cell Genes for Repressible Transgenic Sterilization in Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus. Mar Drugs 2017; 15:md15060155. [PMID: 28561774 PMCID: PMC5484105 DOI: 10.3390/md15060155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2017] [Revised: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Repressible knockdown approaches were investigated for transgenic sterilization in channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus. Two primordial germ cell (PGC) marker genes, nanos and dead end, were targeted for knockdown, and an off-target gene, vasa, was monitored. Two potentially salt sensitive repressible promoters, zebrafish adenylosuccinate synthase 2 (ADSS) and zebrafish racemase (Rm), were each coupled with four knockdown strategies: ds-sh RNA targeting the 5′ end (N1) or 3′ end (N2) of channel catfish nanos, full-length cDNA sequence of channel catfish nanos for overexpression (cDNA) and ds-sh RNA targeting channel catfish dead end (DND). Each construct had an untreated group and treated group with sodium chloride as the repressor compound. Spawning rates of full-sibling P1 fish exposed or not exposed to the constructs as treated and untreated embryos were 93% and 59%, respectively, indicating potential sterilization of fish and repression of the constructs. Although the mRNA expression data of PGC marker genes were inconsistent in P1 fish, most F1 individuals were able to downregulate the target genes in untreated groups and repress the knockdown process in treated groups. The results indicate that repressible transgenic sterilization is feasible for reproductive control of fish, but more data from F2 or F3 are needed for evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanbo Li
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Baofeng Su
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
- National and Local United Engineering Laboratory for Freshwater Fish Breeding, Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Harbin 150070, China.
| | - Guyu Qin
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Zhi Ye
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Ahmed Alsaqufi
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
- Department of Aquaculture and Animal production, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Dayan A Perera
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
- Research and Development Corporation, Gus R. Douglass Institute, West Virginia State University, WV 25112, USA.
| | - Mei Shang
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
- National and Local United Engineering Laboratory for Freshwater Fish Breeding, Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Harbin 150070, China.
| | - Ramjie Odin
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Khoi Vo
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - David Drescher
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Dalton Robinson
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Dan Zhang
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Nermeen Abass
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
- Department of Agricultural Botany, Faculty of Agriculture Saba-Basha, Alexandria University, Alexandria City, P.O. Box 2153, Egypt.
| | - Rex A Dunham
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Black carp vasa identifies embryonic and gonadal germ cells. Dev Genes Evol 2017; 227:231-243. [DOI: 10.1007/s00427-017-0583-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
21
|
Li W, Zhang P, Wu X, Zhu X, Xu H. A Novel Dynamic Expression of vasa in Male Germ Cells during Spermatogenesis in the Chinese Soft-Shell Turtle (Pelidiscus sinensis
). JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART B-MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2017; 328:230-239. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.22728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Revised: 12/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute; Chinese Academic of Fisheries Sciences; Guangzhou People's Republic of China
| | - Piaoyi Zhang
- Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute; Chinese Academic of Fisheries Sciences; Guangzhou People's Republic of China
- College of Fisheries and Life Science; Shanghai Ocean University; Shanghai People's Republic of China
| | - Xuling Wu
- Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute; Chinese Academic of Fisheries Sciences; Guangzhou People's Republic of China
- College of Fisheries and Life Science; Shanghai Ocean University; Shanghai People's Republic of China
| | - Xinping Zhu
- Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute; Chinese Academic of Fisheries Sciences; Guangzhou People's Republic of China
| | - Hongyan Xu
- Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute; Chinese Academic of Fisheries Sciences; Guangzhou People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ye H, Yue HM, Yang XG, Li CJ, Wei QW. Identification and sexually dimorphic expression of vasa isoforms in Dabry′s sturgeon (Acipenser dabryanus), and functional analysis of vasa 3′-untranslated region. Cell Tissue Res 2016; 366:203-18. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-016-2418-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
23
|
Gonadal transcriptomic analysis and differentially expressed genes in the testis and ovary of the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). BMC Genomics 2015; 16:1006. [PMID: 26607692 PMCID: PMC4659196 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-015-2219-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) is the world’s most prevalent cultured crustacean species. However, the supply of high-quality broodstocks is limited and baseline information related to its reproductive activity and molecular issues related to gonad development are scarce. In this study, we performed transcriptome sequencing on the gonads of adult male and female L. vannamei to identify sex-related genes. Results A total of 25.16 gigabases (Gb) of sequences were generated from four L. vannamei gonadal tissue libraries. After quality control, 24.11 Gb of clean reads were selected from the gonadal libraries. De-novo assembly of all the clean reads generated a total of 65,218 unigenes with a mean size of 1021 bp and a N50 of 2000 bp. A search of all-unigene against Nr, SwissProt, KEGG, COG and NT databases resulted in 26,482, 23,062, 20,659, 11,935 and 14,626 annotations, respectively, providing a total of 30,304 annotated unigenes. Among annotated unigenes, 12,320 unigenes were assigned to gene ontology categories and 20,659 unigenes were mapped to 258 KEGG pathways. By comparing the ovary and testis libraries, 19,279 testicular up-regulated and 3,529 ovarian up-regulated unigenes were identified. Enrichment analysis of differentially expressed unigenes resulted in 1060 significantly enriched GO terms and 34 significantly enriched KEGG pathways. Nine ovary-specific, 6 testis-specific, 45 testicular up-regulated and 39 ovarian up-regulated unigenes were then confirmed by semi-quantitative PCR and quantitative real-time PCR. In addition, using all-unigenes as a reference, a total of 13,233 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were identified in 10,411 unigene sequences. Conclusions The present study depicts the first large-scale RNA sequencing of shrimp gonads. We have identified many important sex-related functional genes, GO terms and pathways, all of which will facilitate future research into the reproductive biology of shrimp. We expect that the SSRs detected in this study can then be used as genetic markers for germplasm evaluation of breeding and imported populations. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-015-2219-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
|
24
|
Duggal G, Heindryckx B, Warrier S, Taelman J, Van der Jeught M, Deforce D, Chuva de Sousa Lopes S, De Sutter P. Exogenous supplementation of Activin A enhances germ cell differentiation of human embryonic stem cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2015; 21:410-23. [PMID: 25634576 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) derived in the presence of Activin A (ActA) demonstrate an increased differentiation propensity toward the germ cell lineage. In addition, mouse epiblast stem cells and mouse epiblast-like cells are poised toward germ cell differentiation and are derived in the presence of ActA. We therefore investigated whether supplementation with ActA enhances in vitro hESC differentiation toward germ cell lineage. ActA up-regulated early primordial germ cell (PGC) genes STELLA/DPPA3 (developmental pluripotency associated 3) and tyrosine kinase receptor cKIT in both ActA-derived and standard-derived hESCs indicating its role in priming hESCs toward the PGC lineage. Indeed, ActA plus bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4) strongly increased germ cell differentiation potential of hESCs based on the high expression of late PGC markers DAZL (deleted in azoospermia-like) and VASA/DDX4 (DEAD-box polypeptide 4) at mRNA and protein level. Hence, the combination of ActA with BMP4 provides an additional boost for hESCs to develop into postmigratory germ cells. Together with increased VASA expression in the presence of ActA and BMP4, we also observed up-regulation of endoderm-specific genes GATA4 (GATA binding protein 4) and GATA6. Finally, we were able to further mature these in vitro-derived PGC-like cells (PGCLCs) by culturing them in in vitro maturation (IVM) medium, resulting in the formation of germ cell-like clusters and induction of meiotic gene expression. In conclusion, we demonstrate for the first time a synergism between ActA and BMP4 in facilitating germ cell-directed differentiation of hESCs, which is enhanced by extended culture in IVM medium, as shown by cytoplasmic VASA-expressing PGCLCs. We propose a novel relationship between the endoderm and germ cell lineage during hESC differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Galbha Duggal
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sharat Warrier
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jasin Taelman
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Margot Van der Jeught
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dieter Deforce
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Harelbekestraat 72, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Susana Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Li M, Zhao H, Wei J, Zhang J, Hong Y. Medaka vasa gene has an exonic enhancer for germline expression. Gene 2015; 555:403-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2014.11.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2014] [Revised: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 11/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
26
|
Wang Y, Li WH, Li Z, Liu W, Zhou L, Gui JF. BMP and RA signaling cooperate to regulate Apolipoprotein C1 expression during embryonic development. Gene 2015; 554:196-204. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2014.10.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2014] [Revised: 10/14/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
27
|
Dwarakanath M, Lim M, Xu H, Hong Y. Differential expression of boule and dazl in adult germ cells of the Asian seabass. Gene 2014; 549:237-42. [PMID: 25084124 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2014.07.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2013] [Revised: 07/06/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Fertility genes boule and dazl constitute the evolutionarily conserved DAZ (Deleted in AZoospermia) family of RNA binding proteins essential for germline development across animal phyla. Here we report the cloning and expression analysis of boule and dazl from the Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer), a marine fish that undergoes sequential male-to-female sex reversal. Molecular cloning and sequence comparison led to the identification of boule and dazl cDNAs. RT-PCR analysis showed that both boule and dazl RNAs were restricted to the gonads among adult organs examined. Chromogenic in situ hybridization revealed germ cell-specific expression for both boule and dazl in female and male adults. Importantly, distinct differences were found between boule and dazl in terms of temporospatial expression and subcellular distribution. The boule RNA was abundant in late gametogenic cells except sperm. Interestingly, dazl expression increases in early oocytes and concentrates in a perinuclear speckle that appears to develop ultimately into the Balbiani body in advanced oocytes. The dazl RNA was found to be abundant in spermatocytes but hardly detectable in sperm. These data demonstrate that boule and dazl are germ cell markers in the adult Asian seabass, and that bisexual germline-specific expression has been conserved for boule and dazl in fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manali Dwarakanath
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, 117543, Singapore
| | - Menghuat Lim
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, 117543, Singapore
| | - Hongyan Xu
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, 117543, Singapore
| | - Yunhan Hong
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, 117543, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Yuan Y, Li M, Hong Y. Light and electron microscopic analyses of Vasa expression in adult germ cells of the fish medaka. Gene 2014; 545:15-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2014.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Revised: 04/20/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
29
|
Xiao Q, Xia JH, Zhang XJ, Li Z, Wang Y, Zhou L, Gui JF. Type-IV antifreeze proteins are essential for epiboly and convergence in gastrulation of zebrafish embryos. Int J Biol Sci 2014; 10:715-32. [PMID: 25013380 PMCID: PMC4081606 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.9126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Many organisms in extremely cold environments such as the Antarctic Pole have evolved antifreeze molecules to prevent ice formation. There are four types of antifreeze proteins (AFPs). Type-IV antifreeze proteins (AFP4s) are present also in certain temperate and even tropical fish, which has raised a question as to whether these AFP4s have important functions in addition to antifreeze activity. Here we report the identification and functional analyses of AFP4s in cyprinid fish. Two genes, namely afp4a and afp4b coding for AFP4s, were identified in gibel carp (Carassius auratus gibelio) and zebrafish (Danio rerio). In both species, afp4a and afp4b display a head-to-tail tandem arrangement and share a common 4-exonic gene structure. In zebrafish, both afp4a and afp4b were found to express specifically in the yolk syncytial layer (YSL). Interestingly, afp4a expression continues in YSL and digestive system from early embryos to adults, whereas afp4b expression is restricted to embryogenesis. Importantly, we have shown by using afp4a-specific and afp4b-specifc morpholino knockdown and cell lineage tracing approaches that AFP4a participates in epiboly progression by stabilizing yolk cytoplasmic layer microtubules, and AFP4b is primarily related to convergence movement. Therefore, both AFP4 proteins are essential for gastrulation of zebrafish embryos. Our current results provide first evidence that AFP such as AFP4 has important roles in regulating developmental processes besides its well-known function as antifreeze factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Jian-Hong Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Xiao-Juan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Zhi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Yang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Li Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Jian-Fang Gui
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Bhat N, Hong Y. Cloning and expression of boule and dazl in the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Gene 2014; 540:140-5. [PMID: 24607036 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2014.02.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2013] [Revised: 02/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The Deleted in Azoospermia (DAZ) family of RNA binding proteins consists of highly conserved genes boule, daz and daz-like (dazl) essential for germ cell development. boule is known for its unisexual meiotic expression in invertebrates and mammals, but meiotic-specific female expression plus meiosis-preferential male expression in trout, and meiosis-preferential bisexual expression in medaka. dazl shows highly conserved bisexual expression throughout gametogenesis in diverse species. Here we report the cloning and expression of boule and dazl in the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), an important aquaculture fish. Molecular cloning and sequence analysis led to the identification of tilapia boule and dazl cDNAs. The predicted partial Boule contains a conserved RRM motif and Dazl has the C-terminal sequence. On a phylogenetic tree, tilapia Boule and Dazl are in separate clades of Boule and Dazl homologs from other species, indicating their divergence during early vertebrate evolution. By RT-PCR analysis, boule and dazl showed bisexual gonad-specific expression. By in situ hybridization analysis, both boule and dazl RNAs were restricted to female and male germ cells of adult gonads but absent in gonadal soma. In the ovary, boule and dazl RNAs were abundant in oocytes. In the testis, boule and dazl RNAs were prominent in meiotic spermatocytes but barely detectable in meiotic products. These data show that boule and dazl are expressed bisexually in germ cells and provide useful markers to study gametogenesis in the adult tilapia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Narayani Bhat
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, 117543, Singapore
| | - Yunhan Hong
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, 117543, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|