1
|
Jin C, Yan K, Wang M, Song W, Wang B, Men Y, Niu J, He Y, Zhang Q, Qi J. Dissecting the dynamic cellular transcriptional atlas of adult teleost testis development throughout the annual reproductive cycle. Development 2024; 151:dev202296. [PMID: 38477640 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202296] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Teleost testis development during the annual cycle involves dramatic changes in cellular compositions and molecular events. In this study, the testicular cells derived from adult black rockfish at distinct stages - regressed, regenerating and differentiating - were meticulously dissected via single-cell transcriptome sequencing. A continuous developmental trajectory of spermatogenic cells, from spermatogonia to spermatids, was delineated, elucidating the molecular events involved in spermatogenesis. Subsequently, the dynamic regulation of gene expression associated with spermatogonia proliferation and differentiation was observed across spermatogonia subgroups and developmental stages. A bioenergetic transition from glycolysis to mitochondrial respiration of spermatogonia during the annual developmental cycle was demonstrated, and a deeper level of heterogeneity and molecular characteristics was revealed by re-clustering analysis. Additionally, the developmental trajectory of Sertoli cells was delineated, alongside the divergence of Leydig cells and macrophages. Moreover, the interaction network between testicular micro-environment somatic cells and spermatogenic cells was established. Overall, our study provides detailed information on both germ and somatic cells within teleost testes during the annual reproductive cycle, which lays the foundation for spermatogenesis regulation and germplasm preservation of endangered species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chaofan Jin
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya, 572000, China
| | - Kai Yan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Mengya Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya, 572000, China
| | - Weihao Song
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Bo Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya, 572000, China
| | - Yu Men
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Jingjing Niu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Yan He
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya, 572000, China
| | - Quanqi Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya, 572000, China
| | - Jie Qi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya, 572000, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yang SH, Zeng YZ, Jia XZ, Gu YW, Wood C, Yang RS, Yang JS, Yang WJ. Activated dormant stem cells recover spermatogenesis in chemoradiotherapy-induced infertility. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114582. [PMID: 39096488 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114582] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a recognized side effect of chemoradiotherapy. Extant spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) may act as originators for any subsequent recovery. However, which type of SSCs, the mechanism by which they survive and resist toxicity, and how they act to restart spermatogenesis remain largely unknown. Here, we identify a small population of Set domain-containing protein 4 (Setd4)-expressing SSCs that occur in a relatively dormant state in the mouse seminiferous tubule. Extant beyond high-dose chemoradiotherapy, these cells then activate to recover spermatogenesis. Recovery fails when Setd4+ SSCs are deleted. Confirmed to be of fetal origin, these Setd4+ SSCs are shown to facilitate early testicular development and also contribute to steady-state spermatogenesis in adulthood. Upon activation, chromatin remodeling increases their genome-wide accessibility, enabling Notch1 and Aurora activation with corresponding silencing of p21 and p53. Here, Setd4+ SSCs are presented as the originators of both testicular development and spermatogenesis recovery in chemoradiotherapy-induced infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Hua Yang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yi-Zhe Zeng
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xi-Zheng Jia
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yun-Wen Gu
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Christopher Wood
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ri-Sheng Yang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jin-Shu Yang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Wei-Jun Yang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ran L, Zhao R, Hu G, Dai G, Yao Q, Chen C, Liu X, Xue B. Chronic oral administration of L-carnitine induces testicular injury: in vivo evidence. Int Urol Nephrol 2024:10.1007/s11255-024-04164-9. [PMID: 39044024 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-024-04164-9] [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: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE While L-carnitine is commonly used to treat oligoasthenozoospermia, concerns have been raised regarding its potential harm to spermatogenesis. This study aims to investigate the potential testicular toxicity of long-term oral administration of L-carnitine. METHODS In this study, we refer to the clinical adult dosage and mode of L-carnitine administration, and after converting to mouse doses, mice were daily intragastrical administered L-carnitine to investigate whether it was harmful to the testis. The investigation involved assessing its potential testicular toxicity through histopathological staining, sperm motility analysis, and quantitative real-time PCR. RESULTS Our results showed that L-carnitine increased sperm motility after 14 days of continuous administration, but increased luminal exfoliated spermatogenic cells occurred in the testis, and TUNEL results showed increased apoptotic cells. Compared with the control group, the mRNA expression of the spermatogenic cell marker at each stage was decreased in mice treated for 14 consecutive days of L-carnitine. After 50 days of continuous administration followed by 14 days of drug withdrawal, the total sperm motility of mice was almost 0, and a large number of abnormal eosinophilic spermatogenic cells appeared in the testis. These indicate that oral L-carnitine for more than 14 days impairs spermatogenesis in mice, and sudden discontinuation of administration results in substantial death of established spermatogenic cell populations. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that chronic oral administration of L-carnitine impairs spermatogenic function in the testis. The oral administration of L-carnitine to enhance sperm motility should not exceed the 2/5 point of the spermatogenic cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lingxiang Ran
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rui Zhao
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guangmo Hu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Urology, The First People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei, 230041, Anhui, China
| | - Guangcheng Dai
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiu Yao
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Cai Chen
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaolong Liu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Boxin Xue
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Khampang S, Lorthongpanich C, Laowtammathron C, Klaihmon P, Meesa S, Suksomboon W, Jiamvoraphong N, Kheolamai P, Luanpitpong S, Easley CA, Mahyari E, Issaragrisil S. The dynamic expression of YAP is essential for the development of male germ cells derived from human embryonic stem cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:15732. [PMID: 38977826 PMCID: PMC11231333 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66852-x] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
YAP plays a vital role in controlling growth and differentiation in various cell lineages. Although the expression of YAP in mice testicular and spermatogenic cells suggests its role in mammalian spermatogenesis, the role of YAP in the development of human male germ cells has not yet been determined. Using an in vitro model and a gene editing approach, we generated human spermatogonia stem cell-like cells (hSSLCs) from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and investigated the role of YAP in human spermatogenesis. The results showed that reducing YAP expression during the early stage of spermatogenic differentiation increased the number of PLZF+ hSSLCs and haploid spermatid-like cells. We also demonstrated that the up-regulation of YAP is essential for maintaining spermatogenic cell survival during the later stages of spermatogenic differentiation. The expression of YAP that deviates from this pattern results in a lower number of hSSLCs and an increased level of spermatogenic cell death. Taken together, our result demonstrates that the dynamic expression pattern of YAP is essential for human spermatogenesis. Modulating the level of YAP during human spermatogenesis could improve the production yield of male germ cells derived from hESCs, which could provide the optimization method for in vitro gametogenesis and gain insight into the application in the treatment of male infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sujittra Khampang
- Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Chanchao Lorthongpanich
- Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand.
| | - Chuti Laowtammathron
- Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Phatchanat Klaihmon
- Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Sukanya Meesa
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Wichuda Suksomboon
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Nittaya Jiamvoraphong
- Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Pakpoom Kheolamai
- Center of Excellence in Stem Cell Research and Innovation, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, 12121, Thailand
| | - Sudjit Luanpitpong
- Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Charles A Easley
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Eisa Mahyari
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Surapol Issaragrisil
- Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
- Bangkok Hematology Center, Wattanosoth Hospital, BDMS Center of Excellence for Cancer, Bangkok, 10310, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Dai P, Ma C, Chen C, Liang M, Dong S, Chen H, Zhang X. Unlocking Genetic Mysteries during the Epic Sperm Journey toward Fertilization: Further Expanding Cre Mouse Lines. Biomolecules 2024; 14:529. [PMID: 38785936 PMCID: PMC11117649 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050529] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The spatiotemporal expression patterns of genes are crucial for maintaining normal physiological functions in animals. Conditional gene knockout using the cyclization recombination enzyme (Cre)/locus of crossover of P1 (Cre/LoxP) strategy has been extensively employed for functional assays at specific tissue or developmental stages. This approach aids in uncovering the associations between phenotypes and gene regulation while minimizing interference among distinct tissues. Various Cre-engineered mouse models have been utilized in the male reproductive system, including Dppa3-MERCre for primordial germ cells, Ddx4-Cre and Stra8-Cre for spermatogonia, Prm1-Cre and Acrv1-iCre for haploid spermatids, Cyp17a1-iCre for the Leydig cell, Sox9-Cre for the Sertoli cell, and Lcn5/8/9-Cre for differentiated segments of the epididymis. Notably, the specificity and functioning stage of Cre recombinases vary, and the efficiency of recombination driven by Cre depends on endogenous promoters with different sequences as well as the constructed Cre vectors, even when controlled by an identical promoter. Cre mouse models generated via traditional recombination or CRISPR/Cas9 also exhibit distinct knockout properties. This review focuses on Cre-engineered mouse models applied to the male reproductive system, including Cre-targeting strategies, mouse model screening, and practical challenges encountered, particularly with novel mouse strains over the past decade. It aims to provide valuable references for studies conducted on the male reproductive system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xiaoning Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (P.D.); (C.M.); (C.C.); (M.L.); (S.D.); (H.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Li S, Yan RG, Gao X, He Z, Wu SX, Wang YJ, Zhang YW, Tao HP, Zhang XN, Jia GX, Yang QE. Single-cell transcriptome analyses reveal critical regulators of spermatogonial stem cell fate transitions. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:138. [PMID: 38310206 PMCID: PMC10837949 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10072-0] [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: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the foundation cells for continual spermatogenesis and germline regeneration in mammals. SSC activities reside in the undifferentiated spermatogonial population, and currently, the molecular identities of SSCs and their committed progenitors remain unclear. RESULTS We performed single-cell transcriptome analysis on isolated undifferentiated spermatogonia from mice to decipher the molecular signatures of SSC fate transitions. Through comprehensive analysis, we delineated the developmental trajectory and identified candidate transcription factors (TFs) involved in the fate transitions of SSCs and their progenitors in distinct states. Specifically, we characterized the Asingle spermatogonial subtype marked by the expression of Eomes. Eomes+ cells contained enriched transplantable SSCs, and more than 90% of the cells remained in the quiescent state. Conditional deletion of Eomes in the germline did not impact steady-state spermatogenesis but enhanced SSC regeneration. Forced expression of Eomes in spermatogenic cells disrupted spermatogenesis mainly by affecting the cell cycle progression of undifferentiated spermatogonia. After injury, Eomes+ cells re-enter the cell cycle and divide to expand the SSC pool. Eomes+ cells consisted of 7 different subsets of cells at single-cell resolution, and genes enriched in glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and the PI3/Akt signaling pathway participated in the SSC regeneration process. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we explored the molecular characteristics and critical regulators of subpopulations of undifferentiated spermatogonia. The findings of the present study described a quiescent SSC subpopulation, Eomes+ spermatogonia, and provided a dynamic transcriptional map of SSC fate determination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Li
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Institute of Medical Technology, Luoyang Polytechnic, Luoyang, Henan, 471000, China
| | - Rong-Ge Yan
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xue Gao
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhen He
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Shi-Xin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yu-Jun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yi-Wen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Hai-Ping Tao
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiao-Na Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Gong-Xue Jia
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Qinghai Key Laboratory of Animal Ecological Genomics, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810001, China
| | - Qi-En Yang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810008, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Qinghai Key Laboratory of Animal Ecological Genomics, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qinghai, 810001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Yang J, Ou X, Shu M, Wang J, Zhang X, Wu Z, Hao W, Zeng H, Shao L. Inhibition of p38MAPK signalling pathway alleviates radiation-induced testicular damage through improving spermatogenesis. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:393-412. [PMID: 37580308 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16217] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Damage to the testis following exposure to ionizing radiation has become an urgent problem to be solved. Here we have investigated if inhibition of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) signalling could alleviate radiation-induced testicular damage. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In mice exposed to whole body radiation (2-6 Gy), morphological changes of the epididymis and testis was measured by histochemical staining. immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence procedures and western blotting were used to monitor expression and cellular location of proteins. Expression of genes was assessed by qPCR and RNA-Seq was used to profile gene expression. KEY RESULTS Exposure to ionizing radiation induced dose-dependent damage to mouse testis. The sperm quality decreased at 6 and 8 weeks after 6 Gy X-ray radiation. Radiation decreased PLZF+ cells and increased SOX9+ cells, and affected the expression of 969 genes, compared with data from non-irradiated mice. Expression of genes related to p38MAPK were enriched by GO analysis and were increased in the irradiated testis, and confirmed by qPCR. Levels of phospho-p38MAPK protein increased at 28 days after irradiation. In irradiated mice, SB203580 treatment increased spermatozoa, SOX9+ cells, the area and diameter of seminiferous tubules, sperm movement rate and density. Furthermore, SB203580 treatment increased SCP3+ cells, accelerating the process of spermatogenesis. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Exposure to ionizing radiation clearly changed gene expression in mouse testis, involving activation of p38MAPK signalling pathways. Inhibition of p38MAPK by SB203580 partly alleviated the testicular damage caused by radiation and accelerated the recovery of sperms through promoting spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Yang
- School of Public Health, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiangying Ou
- School of Public Health, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Manling Shu
- School of Public Health, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jie Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- School of Public Health, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhenyu Wu
- School of Public Health, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Wei Hao
- School of Basic Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Huihong Zeng
- School of Basic Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Lijian Shao
- School of Public Health, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Du X, Yang D, Yu X, Wei Y, Chen W, Zhai Y, Ma F, Zhang M, Wan S, Li Y, Yang X, Aierken A, Zhang N, Xu W, Meng Y, Li N, Liao M, Yuan X, Zhu H, Qu L, Zhou N, Bai X, Peng S, Yang F, Hua J. PLZF protein forms a complex with protein TET1 to target TCF7L2 in undifferentiated spermatogonia. Theriogenology 2024; 215:321-333. [PMID: 38128225 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.12.015] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (PLZF, also known as ZBTB16) is critical for the self-renewal of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). However, the function of PLZF in SSCs is not clear. Here, we found that PLZF acted as an epigenetic regulator of stem cell maintenance and self-renewal of germ cells. The PLZF protein interacts with the ten-eleven translocation 1 (TET1) protein and subsequently acts as a modulator to regulate the expression of self-renewal-related genes. Furthermore, Transcription Factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2) is promoted by the coordination of PLZF and Tri-methylation of lysine 4 on histone H3 (H3K4me3). In addition, testicular single-cell sequencing indicated that TCF7L2 is commonly expressed in the PLZF cluster. We demonstrated that PLZF directly targets TCF7L2 and alters the landscape of histone methylation in the SSCs nucleus. Meanwhile, the RD domain and Zn finger domain of PLZF synergize with H3K4me3 and directly upregulate TCF7L2 expression at the transcriptional level. Additionally, we identified a new association between PLZF and the histone methyltransferase EZH2 at the genomic level. Our study identified a new association between PLZF and H3K4me3, established the novel PLZF&TET1-H3K4me3-TCF7L2 axis at the genomic level which regulates undifferentiated spermatogonia, and provided a platform for studying germ cell development in male domestic animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Du
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China; Shaanxi Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Cashmere Goats, College of Life Sciences, Yulin University, Yulin, Shaanxi, 719000, China
| | - Donghui Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Xiuwei Yu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China; Department of Histo-embryology, Genetics and Developmental Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yudong Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Wenbo Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Yuanxin Zhai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Fanglin Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Mengfei Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Shicheng Wan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Yunxiang Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Xinchun Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Aili Aierken
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Wenjing Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Yuan Meng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Na Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Mingzhi Liao
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Xiaole Yuan
- Shaanxi Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Cashmere Goats, College of Life Sciences, Yulin University, Yulin, Shaanxi, 719000, China
| | - Haijing Zhu
- Shaanxi Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Cashmere Goats, College of Life Sciences, Yulin University, Yulin, Shaanxi, 719000, China
| | - Lei Qu
- Shaanxi Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Cashmere Goats, College of Life Sciences, Yulin University, Yulin, Shaanxi, 719000, China
| | - Na Zhou
- People's Hospital of Jingbian County, Ningxia Medical University, Yuling, Shaanxi, 718500, China
| | - Xue Bai
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Sha Peng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China.
| | - Fan Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China.
| | - Jinlian Hua
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, 712100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang Z, Jin C, Li P, Li Y, Tang J, Yu Z, Jiao T, Ou J, Wang H, Zou D, Li M, Mang X, Liu J, Lu Y, Li K, Zhang N, Yu J, Miao S, Wang L, Song W. Identification of quiescent FOXC2 + spermatogonial stem cells in adult mammals. eLife 2023; 12:RP85380. [PMID: 37610429 PMCID: PMC10446825 DOI: 10.7554/elife.85380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In adult mammals, spermatogenesis embodies the complex developmental process from spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) to spermatozoa. At the top of this developmental hierarchy lie a series of SSC subpopulations. Their individual identities as well as the relationships with each other, however, remain largely elusive. Using single-cell analysis and lineage tracing, we discovered both in mice and humans the quiescent adult SSC subpopulation marked specifically by forkhead box protein C2 (FOXC2). All spermatogenic progenies can be derived from FOXC2+ SSCs and the ablation of FOXC2+ SSCs led to the depletion of the undifferentiated spermatogonia pool. During germline regeneration, FOXC2+ SSCs were activated and able to completely restore the process. Germ cell-specific Foxc2 knockout resulted in an accelerated exhaustion of SSCs and eventually led to male infertility. Furthermore, FOXC2 prompts the expressions of negative regulators of cell cycle thereby ensures the SSCs reside in quiescence. Thus, this work proposes that the quiescent FOXC2+ SSCs are essential for maintaining the homeostasis and regeneration of spermatogenesis in adult mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhipeng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Cheng Jin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Pengyu Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yiran Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Jielin Tang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Zhixin Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Tao Jiao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Jinhuan Ou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Dingfeng Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Mengzhen Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Xinyu Mang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Kai Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Ning Zhang
- Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC-PPU), School of Life Sciences, University of DundeeDundeeUnited Kingdom
| | - Jia Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Shiying Miao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Linfang Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Yan W, McCarrey JR. All eyes on FOXC2. eLife 2023; 12:e90747. [PMID: 37561114 PMCID: PMC10414965 DOI: 10.7554/elife.90747] [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: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
New evidence in mice suggests that cells expressing the transcription factor FOXC2 may form a reservoir of quiescent stem cells that contributes to sperm formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yan
- Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at the Harbor-UCLA Medical CenterTorranceUnited States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesUnited States
| | - John R McCarrey
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, University of Texas at San AntonioSan AntonioUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Jin C, Wang Z, Li P, Tang J, Jiao T, Li Y, Ou J, Zou D, Li M, Mang X, Liu J, Ma Y, Wu X, Shi J, Chen S, He M, Lu Y, Zhang N, Miao S, Sun F, Wang L, Li K, Yu J, Song W. Decoding the spermatogonial stem cell niche under physiological and recovery conditions in adult mice and humans. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eabq3173. [PMID: 37540753 PMCID: PMC10403211 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abq3173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
The intricate interaction between spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) and testicular niche is essential for maintaining SSC homeostasis; however, this interaction remains largely uncharacterized. In this study, to characterize the underlying signaling pathways and related paracrine factors, we delineated the intercellular interactions between SSC and niche cell in both adult mice and humans under physiological conditions and dissected the niche-derived regulation of SSC maintenance under recovery conditions, thus uncovering the essential role of C-C motif chemokine ligand 24 and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7 in SSC maintenance. We also established the clinical relevance of specific paracrine factors in human fertility. Collectively, our work on decoding the adult SSC niche serves as a valuable reference for future studies on the aetiology, diagnosis, and treatment of male infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Jin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
- Affiliated Foshan Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University (Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital), Foshan 528000, China
- Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhipeng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Pengyu Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Jielin Tang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Tao Jiao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Yiran Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Jinhuan Ou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Dingfeng Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Mengzhen Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Xinyu Mang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Yanni Ma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
- Center for Stem Cell and Regeneration Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Chengdu 610052, China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Shitao Chen
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Manman He
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Center for Stem Cell and Regeneration Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Chengdu 610052, China
- Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC-PPU), School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Shiying Miao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Linfang Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Kai Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Jia Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
- Center for Stem Cell and Regeneration Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Chengdu 610052, China
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Whiley PAF, Nathaniel B, Stanton PG, Hobbs RM, Loveland KL. Spermatogonial fate in mice with increased activin A bioactivity and testicular somatic cell tumours. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1237273. [PMID: 37564373 PMCID: PMC10409995 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1237273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult male fertility depends on spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) which undergo either self-renewal or differentiation in response to microenvironmental signals. Activin A acts on Sertoli and Leydig cells to regulate key aspects of testis development and function throughout life, including steroid production. Recognising that activin A levels are elevated in many pathophysiological conditions, this study investigates effects of this growth factor on the niche that determines spermatogonial fate. Although activin A can promote differentiation of isolated spermatogonia in vitro, its impacts on SSC and spermatogonial function in vivo are unknown. To assess this, we examined testes of Inha KO mice, which feature elevated activin A levels and bioactivity, and develop gonadal stromal cell tumours as adults. The GFRA1+ SSC-enriched population was more abundant and proliferative in Inha KO compared to wildtype controls, suggesting that chronic elevation of activin A promotes a niche which supports SSC self-renewal. Intriguingly, clusters of GFRA1+/EOMES+/LIN28A- cells, resembling a primitive SSC subset, were frequently observed in tubules adjacent to tumour regions. Transcriptional analyses of Inha KO tumours, tubules adjacent to tumours, and tubules distant from tumour regions revealed disrupted gene expression in each KO group increased in parallel with tumour proximity. Modest transcriptional changes were documented in Inha KO tubules with complete spermatogenesis. Importantly, tumours displaying upregulation of activin responsive genes were also enriched for factors that promote SSC self-renewal, including Gdnf, Igf1, and Fgf2, indicating the tumours generate a supportive microenvironment for SSCs. Tumour cells featured some characteristics of adult Sertoli cells but lacked consistent SOX9 expression and exhibited an enhanced steroidogenic phenotype, which could arise from maintenance or acquisition of a fetal cell identity or acquisition of another somatic phenotype. Tumour regions were also heavily infiltrated with endothelial, peritubular myoid and immune cells, which may contribute to adjacent SSC support. Our data show for the first time that chronically elevated activin A affects SSC fate in vivo. The discovery that testis stromal tumours in the Inha KO mouse create a microenvironment that supports SSC self-renewal but not differentiation offers a strategy for identifying pathways that improve spermatogonial propagation in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Penny A. F. Whiley
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Benedict Nathaniel
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter G. Stanton
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Robin M. Hobbs
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Kate L. Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ran L, Gao Z, Chen Q, Ran Y, Duan N, Hu G, Lu X, Xia R, Li Q, Cui F, Liu X, Xue B. Improving effects of telmisartan on spermatogenic disorder induced by fractionated low-dose irradiation in mice. Int Urol Nephrol 2023; 55:1427-1439. [PMID: 37093439 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-023-03601-5] [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: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male infertility is a hot problem worldwide, but there are few treatments, especially male infertility caused by irradiation is difficult to treat. The aim of this study was to investigate and evaluate novel drugs for the treatment of male infertility caused by irradiation. METHODS we randomly divided 18 male BALB/c mice into 3 groups: control, irradiated, and telmisartan. Both irradiated and telmisartan group completed whole-body 0.5 Gy five times irradiation, and the telmisartan group received intraperitoneal injection of telmisartan (1.2 mg/kg) daily on the next day after irradiation, and all groups were sampled on day 25 after irradiation. RESULTS Sperm motility results show that total sperm motility of irradiated group was significantly lower compared with control group, and testicular HE results showed that testis in irradiated group were severely damaged. Compared with irradiated group, the total sperm motility, sperm concentration, testicular index, Johnsen score, and the seminiferous tubule layer numbers were higher in telmisartan group (P < 0.05). The immunohistochemical staining showed γ-H2AX expression is higher in telmisartan group compared with irradiated group. And the relative mRNA expression of PLZF, GFRA1, STRA8, DMRT1, SPO11, SYCP2, OVOL2, CCNA1, TJP3, RUNX2, TXNDC2 TNP1, and PRM3 in telmisartan group was all significantly higher than irradiated group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION In conclusion, in vivo experiments confirmed that telmisartan ameliorated the spermatogenic disorder in mice caused by fractionated low-dose irradiation via promoting spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lingxiang Ran
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhixiang Gao
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiu Chen
- School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuanshuai Ran
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Nengliang Duan
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guangmo Hu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xingyu Lu
- School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu, China
| | - Renlan Xia
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiaoqiao Li
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fengmei Cui
- School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaolong Liu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Boxin Xue
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lee SJ, Kim KH, Lee DJ, Kim P, Park J, Kim SJ, Jung HS. MAST4 controls cell cycle in spermatogonial stem cells. Cell Prolif 2023; 56:e13390. [PMID: 36592615 PMCID: PMC10068930 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) self-renewal is regulated by reciprocal interactions between Sertoli cells and SSCs in the testis. In a previous study, microtubule-associated serine/threonine kinase 4 (MAST4) has been studied in Sertoli cells as a regulator of SSC self-renewal. The present study focused on the mechanism by which MAST4 in Sertoli cells transmits the signal and regulates SSCs, especially cell cycle regulation. The expression of PLZF, CDK2 and PLZF target genes was examined in WT and Mast4 KO testes by Immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR and western blot. In addition, IdU and BrdU were injected into WT and Mast4 KO mice and cell cycle of SSCs was analysed. Finally, the testis tissues were cultured in vitro to examine the regulation of cell cycle by MAST4 pathway. Mast4 KO mice showed infertility with Sertoli cell-only syndrome and reduced sperm count. Furthermore, Mast4 deletion led to decreased PLZF expression and cell cycle progression in the testes. MAST4 also induced cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) to phosphorylate PLZF and activated PLZF suppressed the transcriptional levels of genes related to cell cycle arrest, leading SSCs to remain stem cell state. MAST4 is essential for maintaining cell cycle in SSCs via the CDK2-PLZF interaction. These results demonstrate the pivotal role of MAST4 regulating cell cycle of SSCs and the significance of spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Jun Lee
- Division in Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Department of Oral Biology, Taste Research Center, Oral Science Research Center, BK21 FOUR Project, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ka-Hwa Kim
- Division in Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Department of Oral Biology, Taste Research Center, Oral Science Research Center, BK21 FOUR Project, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dong-Joon Lee
- Division in Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Department of Oral Biology, Taste Research Center, Oral Science Research Center, BK21 FOUR Project, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Pyunggang Kim
- Department of MAST Research, Division in GILO Research Institute, GILO Foundation, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jinah Park
- Department of MAST Research, Division in GILO Research Institute, GILO Foundation, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seong-Jin Kim
- Department of MAST Research, Division in GILO Research Institute, GILO Foundation, Seoul, South Korea.,Division in Research Institute, Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Research, Medpacto Inc., Seoul, South Korea
| | - Han-Sung Jung
- Division in Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Department of Oral Biology, Taste Research Center, Oral Science Research Center, BK21 FOUR Project, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ciccarelli M, Oatley JM. Perspectives: Approaches for Studying Livestock Spermatogonia. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2656:325-339. [PMID: 37249879 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3139-3_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
At present, the knowledge base on characteristics and biology of spermatogonia in livestock is limited in comparison to rodents, yet the importance of studying these cells for comparative species analysis and enhancing reproductive capacity in food animals is high. Previous studies have established that although many core attributes of organ physiology and mechanisms governing essential cellular functions are conserved across eutherians, significant differences exist between mice and higher order mammals. In this chapter, we briefly discuss distinguishing aspects of testicular anatomy and the spermatogenic lineage in livestock and critical considerations for studying spermatogonial stem cell biology in these species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Ciccarelli
- Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Jon M Oatley
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Law NC. Lineage Tracing of Spermatogonial Stem Cells Within the Male Germline. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2656:309-324. [PMID: 37249878 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3139-3_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the fundamental units from which continuous spermatogenesis arises. Although our knowledge regarding the basic properties of SSCs has grown, driven primarily through the advancement of techniques and technologies to study SSCs, the mechanisms controlling their fate remain largely unknown. Among the modern strategies to evaluate SSCs, lineage tracing is among the few established approaches that allow for functional assessment of stem cell capacity. As a result, lineage tracing continues to forge new discoveries underlying the basic attributes of SSCs as well as the molecular factors that govern SSC function. Traditional approaches to lineage tracing with dyes or radioactive labels suffer from progressive loss after successive cell divisions or unintentional label transfer to neighboring cells. To address these limitations, genetic approaches primarily leveraging transgenic technologies have prevailed as the preferred avenue for modern lineage tracing. This chapter will discuss current protocols for effective genetic lineage tracing and address applications of this technology, considerations when designing lineage tracing experiments, and the methods involved in utilizing lineage tracing to study SSCs and other cell populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan C Law
- Center for Reproductive Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chapman KM, Pudasaini A, Vanderbeck MN, Hamra FK. Rattus norvegicus Spermatogenesis Colony-Forming Assays. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2677:233-257. [PMID: 37464246 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3259-8_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge gaps persist on signaling pathways and metabolic states in germ cells sufficient to support spermatogenesis independent of a somatic environment. Consequently, methods to culture mammalian stem cells through spermatogenesis in defined systems have not been established. Lack of success at culturing mammalian stem cells through spermatogenesis in defined systems reflects an inability to experimentally recapitulate biochemical events that develop in germ cells within the testis-specific seminiferous epithelium. Complex germ and somatic cell associations that develop each seminiferous epithelial cycle support such a hypothesis, conceivably explaining why highly pure mammalian spermatogonia do not effectively develop into and through meiosis without somatic cells. Here, we outline an in vitro spermatogenesis colony-forming assay to study how differentiating spermatogonial syncytia develop from rat spermatogonial stem cell lines. Robust spermatogonial differentiation under defined culture conditions, once established, is anticipated to facilitate molecular biology studies on pre-meiotic steps in gametogenesis by providing soma-free bioassays to systematically identify spermatogenic factors that promote meiotic progression in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen M Chapman
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Cecil H. & Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | | | - F Kent Hamra
- Cecil H. & Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
scATAC-Seq reveals heterogeneity associated with spermatogonial differentiation in cultured male germline stem cells. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21482. [PMID: 36509798 PMCID: PMC9744833 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25729-7] [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: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells are the most primitive spermatogonia in testis, which can self-renew to maintain the stem cell pool or differentiate to give rise to germ cells including haploid spermatids. All-trans-retinoic acid (RA), a bioactive metabolite of vitamin A, plays a fundamental role in initiating spermatogonial differentiation. In this study, single-cell ATAC-seq (scATAC-seq) was used to obtain genome-wide chromatin maps of cultured germline stem cells (GSCs) that were in control and RA-induced differentiation states. We showed that different subsets of GSCs can be distinguished based on chromatin accessibility of self-renewal and differentiation signature genes. Importantly, both progenitors and a subset of stem cells are able to respond to RA and give rise to differentiating cell subsets with distinct chromatin accessibility profiles. In this study, we identified regulatory regions that undergo chromatin remodeling and are associated with the retinoic signaling pathway. Moreover, we reconstructed the differentiation trajectory and identified novel transcription factor candidates enriched in different spermatogonia subsets. Collectively, our work provides a valuable resource for understanding the heterogeneity associated with differentiation and RA response in GSCs.
Collapse
|
19
|
An X, Li Q, Chen N, Li T, Wang H, Su M, Shi H, Ma Y. Effects of Pgam1-mediated glycolysis pathway in Sertoli cells on Spermatogonial stem cells based on transcriptomics and energy metabolomics. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:992877. [PMID: 36213420 PMCID: PMC9540473 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.992877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process involving a variety of intercellular interactions and precise regulation of gene expression. Spermatogenesis is sustained by a foundational Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and in mammalian testis. Sertoli cells (SCs) are the major component of SSC niche. Sertoli cells provide structural support and supply energy substrate for developing germ cells. Phosphoglycerate mutase 1 (Pgam1) is a key enzyme in the glycolytic metabolism and our previous work showed that Pgam1 is expressed in SCs. In the present study, hypothesized that Pgam1-depedent glycolysis in SCs plays a functional role in regulating SSCs fate decisions. A co-culture system of murine SCs and primary spermatogonia was constructed to investigate the effects of Pgam1 knockdown or overexpression on SSCs proliferation and differentiation. Transcriptome results indicated that overexpression and knockdown of Pgam1 in SCs resulted in up-regulation of 458 genes (117 down-regulated, 341 up-regulated) and down-regulation of 409 genes (110 down-regulated, 299 up-regulated), respectively. Further analysis of these DEGs revealed that GDNF, FGF2 and other genes that serve key roles in SSCs niche maintenance were regulated by Pgam1. The metabolome results showed that a total of 11 and 16 differential metabolites were identified in the Pgam1 gene overexpression and knockdown respectively. Further screening of these metabolites indicated that Sertoli cell derived glutamate, glutamine, threonine, leucine, alanine, lysine, serine, succinate, fumarate, phosphoenolpyruvate, ATP, ADP, and AMP have potential roles in regulating SSCs proliferation and differentiation. In summary, this study established a SCs-SSCs co-culture system and identified a list of genes and small metabolic molecules that affect the proliferation and differentiation of SSCs. This study provides additional insights into the regulatory mechanisms underlying interactions between SCs and SSCs during mammalian spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuejiao An
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qiao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Nana Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Taotao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huihui Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Manchun Su
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huibin Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Youji Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Youji Ma
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Nazeri T, Hedayatpour A, Kazemzadeh S, Safari M, Safi S, Khanehzad M. Antioxidant Effect of Melatonin on Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Oxidative Stress Variables in Frozen-Thawed Neonatal Mice Spermatogonial Stem Cells. Biopreserv Biobank 2022; 20:374-383. [PMID: 35984941 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2021.0128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) is an important method to restore and maintain fertility in preadolescent children suffering from cancer. For protection of SSCs from cryoinjury, various antioxidant agents have been used. The aim of this study was to assess the antiapoptotic and antioxidant effects of melatonin in frozen-thawed SSCs. SSCs were isolated from testes of neonatal mice (3-6 days old) and their purities were measured by flow cytometry with promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger protein. After culturing, the cells were frozen in two groups (1) control and (2) melatonin (100 μM) and stored for 1 month. Finally, the cell viability, colonization rate, expression of Bcl-2 and BAX gene, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were evaluated after freezing-thawing. Melatonin increased the viability and colonization of SSCs and Bcl-2 gene expression. It also diminished BAX gene expression and intracellular ROS. The results of this study show that melatonin with antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects can be used as an additive for freezing and long-term storage of cells and infertility treatment in the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tahoora Nazeri
- Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University of SariBranch, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Azim Hedayatpour
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shokoofeh Kazemzadeh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Safari
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samiullah Safi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Khanehzad
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Distinctive molecular features of regenerative stem cells in the damaged male germline. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2500. [PMID: 35523793 PMCID: PMC9076627 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30130-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of male fertility requires spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) that self-renew and generate differentiating germ cells for production of spermatozoa. Germline cells are sensitive to genotoxic drugs and patients receiving chemotherapy can become infertile. SSCs surviving treatment mediate germline recovery but pathways driving SSC regenerative responses remain poorly understood. Using models of chemotherapy-induced germline damage and recovery, here we identify unique molecular features of regenerative SSCs and characterise changes in composition of the undifferentiated spermatogonial pool during germline recovery by single-cell analysis. Increased mitotic activity of SSCs mediating regeneration is accompanied by alterations in growth factor signalling including PI3K/AKT and mTORC1 pathways. While sustained mTORC1 signalling is detrimental for SSC maintenance, transient mTORC1 activation is critical for the regenerative response. Concerted inhibition of growth factor signalling disrupts core features of the regenerative state and limits germline recovery. We also demonstrate that the FOXM1 transcription factor is a target of growth factor signalling in undifferentiated spermatogonia and provide evidence for a role in regeneration. Our data confirm dynamic changes in SSC functional properties following damage and support an essential role for microenvironmental growth factors in promoting a regenerative state. Male germline regeneration after damage is dependent on spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) but pathways mediating the regenerative response are unclear. Here the authors define roles for growth factor signalling and mTORC1 in SSC-driven regeneration.
Collapse
|
22
|
Kitadate Y, Yoshida S. Regulation of spermatogenic stem cell homeostasis by mitogen competition in an open niche microenvironment. Gene 2022; 97:15-25. [DOI: 10.1266/ggs.21-00062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Kitadate
- Division of Germ Cell Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences
| | - Shosei Yoshida
- Division of Germ Cell Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Mäkelä JA, Toppari J. Retinoblastoma-E2F Transcription Factor Interplay Is Essential for Testicular Development and Male Fertility. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:903684. [PMID: 35663332 PMCID: PMC9161260 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.903684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The retinoblastoma (RB) protein family members (pRB, p107 and p130) are key regulators of cell cycle progression, but also play crucial roles in apoptosis, and stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. RB proteins exert their effects through binding to E2F transcription factors, which are essential developmental and physiological regulators of tissue and organ homeostasis. According to the canonical view, phosphorylation of RB results in release of E2Fs and induction of genes needed for progress of the cell cycle. However, there are eight members in the E2F transcription factor family with both activator (E2F1-3a) and repressor (E2F3b-E2F8) roles, highlighting the functional diversity of RB-E2F pathway. In this review article we summarize the data showing that RB-E2F interaction is a key cell-autonomous mechanism responsible for establishment and maintenance of lifelong male fertility. We also review the expression pattern of RB proteins and E2F transcription factors in the testis and male germ cells. The available evidence supports that RB and E2F family members are widely and dynamically expressed in the testis, and they are known to have versatile roles during spermatogenesis. Knowledge of the function and significance of RB-E2F interplay for testicular development and spermatogenesis comes primarily from gene knock-out (KO) studies. Several studies conducted in Sertoli cell-specific pRB-KO mice have demonstrated that pRB-mediated inhibition of E2F3 is essential for Sertoli cell functional maturation and cell cycle exit, highlighting that RB-E2F interaction in Sertoli cells is paramount to male fertility. Similarly, ablation of either pRB or E2F1 in the germline results in progressive testicular atrophy due to germline stem cell (GSC) depletion, emphasizing the importance of proper RB-E2F interplay for germline maintenance and lifelong sperm production. In summary, while balanced RB-E2F interplay is essential for cell-autonomous maintenance of GSCs and, the pRB-E2F3 system in Sertoli cells is critical for providing GSC niche thus laying the basis for spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juho-Antti Mäkelä
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- *Correspondence: Jorma Toppari,
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Zhao J, Lu P, Wan C, Huang Y, Cui M, Yang X, Hu Y, Zheng Y, Dong J, Wang M, Zhang S, Liu Z, Bian S, Wang X, Wang R, Ren S, Wang D, Yao Z, Chang G, Tang F, Zhao XY. Cell-fate transition and determination analysis of mouse male germ cells throughout development. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6839. [PMID: 34824237 PMCID: PMC8617176 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27172-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian male germ cell development is a stepwise cell-fate transition process; however, the full-term developmental profile of male germ cells remains undefined. Here, by interrogating the high-precision transcriptome atlas of 11,598 cells covering 28 critical time-points, we demonstrate that cell-fate transition from mitotic to post-mitotic primordial germ cells is accompanied by transcriptome-scale reconfiguration and a transitional cell state. Notch signaling pathway is essential for initiating mitotic arrest and the maintenance of male germ cells' identities. Ablation of HELQ induces developmental arrest and abnormal transcriptome reprogramming of male germ cells, indicating the importance of cell cycle regulation for proper cell-fate transition. Finally, systematic human-mouse comparison reveals potential regulators whose deficiency contributed to human male infertility via mitotic arrest regulation. Collectively, our study provides an accurate and comprehensive transcriptome atlas of the male germline cycle and allows for an in-depth understanding of the cell-fate transition and determination underlying male germ cell development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiexiang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Ping Lu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Cong Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Yaping Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Manman Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Xinyan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Yuqiong Hu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yi Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Ji Dong
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Mei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoting Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Shuhui Bian
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoman Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Rui Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Shaofang Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Dazhuang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Zhaokai Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Gang Chang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, 518060, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P. R. China.
| | - Fuchou Tang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China.
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China.
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China.
| | - Xiao-Yang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China.
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China.
- Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), 510700, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Nakagawa T, Jörg DJ, Watanabe H, Mizuno S, Han S, Ikeda T, Omatsu Y, Nishimura K, Fujita M, Takahashi S, Kondoh G, Simons BD, Yoshida S, Nagasawa T. A multistate stem cell dynamics maintains homeostasis in mouse spermatogenesis. Cell Rep 2021; 37:109875. [PMID: 34686326 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In mouse testis, a heterogeneous population of undifferentiated spermatogonia (Aundiff) harbors spermatogenic stem cell (SSC) potential. Although GFRα1+ Aundiff maintains the self-renewing pool in homeostasis, the functional basis of heterogeneity and the implications for their dynamics remain unresolved. Here, through quantitative lineage tracing of SSC subpopulations, we show that an ensemble of heterogeneous states of SSCs supports homeostatic, persistent spermatogenesis. Such heterogeneity is maintained robustly through stochastic interconversion of SSCs between a renewal-biased Plvap+/GFRα1+ state and a differentiation-primed Sox3+/GFRα1+ state. In this framework, stem cell commitment occurs not directly but gradually through entry into licensed but uncommitted states. Further, Plvap+/GFRα1+ cells divide slowly, in synchrony with the seminiferous epithelial cycle, while Sox3+/GFRα1+ cells divide much faster. Such differential cell-cycle dynamics reduces mitotic load, and thereby the potential to acquire harmful de novo mutations of the self-renewing pool, while keeping the SSC density high over the testicular open niche.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toshinori Nakagawa
- Division of Germ Cell Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8787, Japan; Department of Basic Biology, School of Life Science, Graduate University for Advanced Studies (Sokendai), 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8787, Japan; Department of Immunobiology and Hematology, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan.
| | - David J Jörg
- The Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK; Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, J. J. Thomson Avenue, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0HE, UK
| | - Hitomi Watanabe
- Laboratory of Integrative Biological Science, Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Seiya Mizuno
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center and Trans-border Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
| | - Seungmin Han
- The Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK; Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 A0W, UK
| | - Tatsuro Ikeda
- Division of Germ Cell Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8787, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Omatsu
- Department of Immunobiology and Hematology, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Immunology, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences and Graduate School of Medicine, World Premier International Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Keiko Nishimura
- Division of Germ Cell Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8787, Japan
| | - Miyako Fujita
- Division of Germ Cell Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8787, Japan
| | - Satoru Takahashi
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center and Trans-border Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan; Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
| | - Gen Kondoh
- Laboratory of Integrative Biological Science, Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Benjamin D Simons
- The Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK; Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 A0W, UK; Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, Centre for Mathematical Sciences, Wilberforce Road, Cambridge CB3 0WA, UK
| | - Shosei Yoshida
- Division of Germ Cell Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8787, Japan; Department of Basic Biology, School of Life Science, Graduate University for Advanced Studies (Sokendai), 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8787, Japan.
| | - Takashi Nagasawa
- Department of Immunobiology and Hematology, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Immunology, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences and Graduate School of Medicine, World Premier International Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Binsila B, Selvaraju S, Ranjithkumaran R, Archana SS, Krishnappa B, Ghosh SK, Kumar H, Subbarao RB, Arangasamy A, Bhatta R. Current scenario and challenges ahead in application of spermatogonial stem cell technology in livestock. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:3155-3173. [PMID: 34661801 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02334-7] [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: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the source for the mature male gamete. SSC technology in humans is mainly focusing on preserving fertility in cancer patients. Whereas in livestock, it is used for mining the factors associated with male fertility. The review discusses the present status of SSC biology, methodologies developed for in vitro culture, and challenges ahead in establishing SSC technology for the propagation of superior germplasm with special reference to livestock. METHOD Published literatures from PubMed and Google Scholar on topics of SSCs isolation, purification, characterization, short and long-term culture of SSCs, stemness maintenance, epigenetic modifications of SSCs, growth factors, and SSC cryopreservation and transplantation were used for the study. RESULT The fine-tuning of SSC isolation and culture conditions with special reference to feeder cells, growth factors, and additives need to be refined for livestock. An insight into the molecular mechanisms involved in maintaining stemness and proliferation of SSCs could facilitate the dissemination of superior germplasm through transplantation and transgenesis. The epigenetic influence on the composition and expression of the biomolecules during in vitro differentiation of cultured cells is essential for sustaining fertility. The development of surrogate males through gene-editing will be historic achievement for the foothold of the SSCs technology. CONCLUSION Detailed studies on the species-specific factors regulating the stemness and differentiation of the SSCs are required for the development of a long-term culture system and in vitro spermatogenesis in livestock. Epigenetic changes in the SSCs during in vitro culture have to be elucidated for the successful application of SSCs for improving the productivity of the animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Balakrishnan Binsila
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India.
| | - Sellappan Selvaraju
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| | - Rajan Ranjithkumaran
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| | - Santhanahalli Siddalingappa Archana
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| | - Balaganur Krishnappa
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| | - Subrata Kumar Ghosh
- Animal Reproduction Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, 243 122, India
| | - Harendra Kumar
- Animal Reproduction Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, 243 122, India
| | - Raghavendra B Subbarao
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| | - Arunachalam Arangasamy
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| | - Raghavendra Bhatta
- Indian council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
N'Tumba-Byn T, Yamada M, Seandel M. Loss of tyrosine kinase receptor Ephb2 impairs proliferation and stem cell activity of spermatogonia in culture†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:950-962. [PMID: 31836902 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Germline stem and progenitor cells can be extracted from the adult mouse testis and maintained long-term in vitro. Yet, the optimal culture conditions for preserving stem cell activity are unknown. Recently, multiple members of the Eph receptor family were detected in murine spermatogonia, but their roles remain obscure. One such gene, Ephb2, is crucial for maintenance of somatic stem cells and was previously found enriched at the level of mRNA in murine spermatogonia. We detected Ephb2 mRNA and protein in primary adult spermatogonial cultures and hypothesized that Ephb2 plays a role in maintenance of stem cells in vitro. We employed CRISPR-Cas9 targeting and generated stable mutant SSC lines with complete loss of Ephb2. The characteristics of Ephb2-KO cells were interrogated using phenotypic and functional assays. Ephb2-KO SSCs exhibited reduced proliferation compared to wild-type cells, while apoptosis was unaffected. Therefore, we examined whether Ephb2 loss correlates with activity of canonical pathways involved in stem cell self-renewal and proliferation. Ephb2-KO cells had reduced ERK MAPK signaling. Using a lentiviral transgene, Ephb2 expression was rescued in Ephb2-KO cells, which partially restored signaling and proliferation. Transplantation analysis revealed that Ephb2-KO SSCs cultures formed significantly fewer colonies than WT, indicating a role for Ephb2 in preserving stem cell activity of cultured cells. Transcriptome analysis of wild-type and Ephb2-KO SSCs identified Dppa4 and Bnc1 as differentially expressed, Ephb2-dependent genes that are potentially involved in stem cell function. These data uncover for the first time a crucial role for Ephb2 signaling in cultured SSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thierry N'Tumba-Byn
- Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Makiko Yamada
- Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Marco Seandel
- Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Tan K, Song HW, Wilkinson MF. RHOX10 drives mouse spermatogonial stem cell establishment through a transcription factor signaling cascade. Cell Rep 2021; 36:109423. [PMID: 34289349 PMCID: PMC8357189 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are essential for male fertility. Here, we report that mouse SSC generation is driven by a transcription factor (TF) cascade controlled by the homeobox protein, RHOX10, which acts by driving the differentiation of SSC precursors called pro-spermatogonia (ProSG). We identify genes regulated by RHOX10 in ProSG in vivo and define direct RHOX10-target genes using several approaches, including a rapid temporal induction assay: iSLAMseq. Together, these approaches identify temporal waves of RHOX10 direct targets, as well as RHOX10 secondary-target genes. Many of the RHOX10-regulated genes encode proteins with known roles in SSCs. Using an in vitro ProSG differentiation assay, we find that RHOX10 promotes mouse ProSG differentiation through a conserved transcriptional cascade involving the key germ-cell TFs DMRT1 and ZBTB16. Our study gives important insights into germ cell development and provides a blueprint for how to define TF cascades.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kun Tan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Hye-Won Song
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Miles F Wilkinson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Morimoto H, Kanatsu-Shinohara M, Orwig KE, Shinohara T. Expression and functional analyses of ephrin type-A receptor 2 in mouse spermatogonial stem cells†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:220-232. [PMID: 31403678 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) undergo continuous self-renewal division in response to self-renewal factors. The present study identified ephrin type-A receptor 2 (EPHA2) on mouse SSCs and showed that supplementation of glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), which are both SSC self-renewal factors, induced EPHA2 expression in cultured SSCs. Spermatogonial transplantation combined with magnetic-activated cell sorting or fluorescence-activated cell sorting also revealed that EPHA2 was expressed in SSCs. Additionally, ret proto-oncogene (RET) phosphorylation levels decreased following the knockdown (KD) of Epha2 expression via short hairpin ribonucleic acid (RNA). Although the present immunoprecipitation experiments did not reveal an association between RET with EPHA2, RET interacted with FGFR2. The Epha2 KD decreased the proliferation of cultured SSCs and inhibited the binding of cultured SSCs to laminin-coated plates. The Epha2 KD also significantly reduced the colonization of testis cells by spermatogonial transplantation. EPHA2 was also expressed in human GDNF family receptor alpha 1-positive spermatogonia. The present results indicate that SSCs express EPHA2 and suggest that it is a critical modifier of self-renewal signals in SSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Morimoto
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Mito Kanatsu-Shinohara
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Agency for Medical Research and Development-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Takashi Shinohara
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Boyer A, Zhang X, Levasseur A, Abou Nader N, St-Jean G, Nagano MC, Boerboom D. Constitutive activation of CTNNB1 results in a loss of spermatogonial stem cell activity in mice. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251911. [PMID: 34015032 PMCID: PMC8136708 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis requires that a careful balance be maintained between the self-renewal of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and their commitment to the developmental pathway through which they will differentiate into spermatozoa. Recently, a series of studies employing various in vivo and in vitro models have suggested a role of the wingless-related MMTV integration site gene family/beta-catenin (WNT/CTNNB1) pathway in determining the fate of SSCs. However, conflicting data have suggested that CTNNB1 signaling may either promote SSC self-renewal or differentiation. Here, we studied the effects of sustained CTNNB1 signaling in SSCs using the Ctnnb1tm1Mmt/+; Ddx4-CreTr/+ (ΔCtnnb1) mouse model, in which a stabilized form of CTNNB1 is expressed in all germ cells. ΔCtnnb1 mice were found to have reduced testis weights and partial germ cell loss by 4 months of age. Germ cell transplantation assays showed a 49% reduction in total functional SSC numbers in 8 month-old transgenic mice. In vitro, Thy1-positive undifferentiated spermatogonia from ΔCtnnb1 mice formed 57% fewer clusters, which was associated with decreased cell proliferation. A reduction in mRNA levels of genes associated with SSC maintenance (Bcl6b, Gfra1, Plzf) and increased levels for markers associated with progenitor and differentiating spermatogonia (Kit, Rarg, Sohlh1) were detected in these cluster cells. Furthermore, RNAseq performed on these clusters revealed a network of more than 900 genes regulated by CTNNB1, indicating that CTNNB1 is an important regulator of spermatogonial fate. Together, our data support the notion that CTNNB1 signaling promotes the transition of SSCs to undifferentiated progenitor spermatogonia at the expense of their self-renewal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Boyer
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Xiangfan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Adrien Levasseur
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Nour Abou Nader
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Guillaume St-Jean
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Makoto C. Nagano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Derek Boerboom
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Parker N, Laychur A, Sukwani M, Orwig KE, Oatley JM, Zhang C, Rutaganira FU, Shokat K, Wright WW. Spermatogonial Stem Cell Numbers Are Reduced by Transient Inhibition of GDNF Signaling but Restored by Self-Renewing Replication when Signaling Resumes. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:597-609. [PMID: 33636117 PMCID: PMC7940257 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
One cause of human male infertility is a scarcity of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in testes with Sertoli cells that neither produce adequate amounts of GDNF nor form the Sertoli-Sertoli junctions that form the blood-testis barrier (BTB). These patients raise the issue of whether a pool of SSCs, depleted due to inadequate GDNF stimulation, will expand if normal signaling is restored. Here, we reduce adult mouse SSC numbers by 90% using a chemical-genetic approach that reversibly inhibits GDNF signaling. Signal resumption causes all remaining SSCs to replicate immediately, but they primarily form differentiating progenitor spermatogonia. Subsequently, self-renewing replication restores SSC numbers. Testicular GDNF levels are not increased during restoration. However, SSC replication decreases as numbers of SSCs and progenitors increase, suggesting important regulatory interactions among these cells. Finally, sequential loss of SSCs and then pachytene spermatocytes causes dissolution of the BTB, thereby recapitulating another important characteristic of some infertile men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Parker
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Andrew Laychur
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Meena Sukwani
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, 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, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jon M Oatley
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164, USA
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California San Francisco, 600 16(th) Street, MC 2280, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Florentine U Rutaganira
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California San Francisco, 600 16(th) Street, MC 2280, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Kevan Shokat
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California San Francisco, 600 16(th) Street, MC 2280, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - William W Wright
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Suzuki S, McCarrey JR, Hermann BP. An mTORC1-dependent switch orchestrates the transition between mouse spermatogonial stem cells and clones of progenitor spermatogonia. Cell Rep 2021; 34:108752. [PMID: 33596419 PMCID: PMC7980622 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.108752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) sustain spermatogenesis by balancing self-renewal and initiation of differentiation to produce progenitor spermatogonia committed to forming sperm. To define the regulatory logic among SSCs and progenitors, we performed single-cell RNA velocity analyses and validated results in vivo. A predominant quiescent SSC population spawns a small subset of cell-cycle-activated SSCs via mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/AKT signaling. Activated SSCs form early progenitors and mTORC1 inhibition drives activated SSC accumulation consistent with blockade to progenitor formation. Mechanistically, mTORC1 inhibition suppresses transcription among spermatogonia and specifically alters expression of insulin growth factor (IGF) signaling in early progenitors. Tex14−/− testes lacking intercellular bridges do not accumulate activated SSCs following mTORC1 inhibition, indicating that steady-state mTORC1 signaling drives activated SSCs to produce progenitor clones. These results are consistent with a model of SSC self-renewal dependent on interconversion between activated and quiescent SSCs, and mTORC1-dependent initiation of differentiation from SSCs to progenitor clones. Suzuki et al. define relationships between subsets of adult mouse SSCs and progenitor spermatogonia using single-cell RNA velocity analyses and in vivo validations. Quiescent SCCs convert to cell-cycle-activated SCCs via MAPK/AKT signaling. Activated SCCs are driven to become early progenitor clones ready to initiate differentiation through mTORC1 signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shinnosuke Suzuki
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - John R McCarrey
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Brian P Hermann
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Huang WL, Ding L, Yao JH, Hu HT, Gao Y, Xie XY, Lu MD, Deng CH, Xie Y, Wang Z. Testicular quantitative ultrasound: A noninvasive monitoring method for evaluating spermatogenic function in busulfan-induced testicular injury mouse models. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13927. [PMID: 33355959 DOI: 10.1111/and.13927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Busulfan-induced testicular injury mouse models are commonly used for experiments on spermatogonial stem cell transplantation, treatments for azoospermia due to spermatogenic failure and preserving male fertility after chemotherapy. Here, we investigated the value of testicular quantitative ultrasound for evaluating spermatogenic function in this model. In this study, testicular ultrasound was performed on mice from day 0 to 126 after busulfan treatment (n = 48), and quantitative data, including the testicular volume, mean pixel intensity and pixel uniformity, were analysed. The results revealed that from day 0 to 36, the testicular volume was positively associated with the testicle-to-body weight ratio (r = .92). On day 63, the pixel uniformity, which remained stable from day 0 to 36, declined significantly compared with that on day 36 (p < .01). On day 126, when the whole progression of spermatogenesis could be observed in most tubules, the mean pixel intensity also returned to normal (p > .05). In conclusion, testicular quantitative ultrasound could be used as a noninvasive and accurate monitoring method for evaluating spermatogenic function in busulfan-induced testicular injury mouse models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Ling Huang
- Department of Medical Ultrasonics, Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Ding
- Department of Pathology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Hui Yao
- Department of Andrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hang-Tong Hu
- Department of Medical Ultrasonics, Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong Gao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Xie
- Department of Medical Ultrasonics, Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming-De Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chun-Hua Deng
- Department of Andrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun Xie
- Department of Andrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhu Wang
- Department of Medical Ultrasonics, Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Yoshida S. Mouse Spermatogenesis Reflects the Unity and Diversity of Tissue Stem Cell Niche Systems. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2020; 12:cshperspect.a036186. [PMID: 32152184 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a036186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Mouse spermatogenesis is supported by spermatogenic stem cells (SSCs). SSCs maintain their pool while migrating over an open (or facultative) niche microenvironment of testicular seminiferous tubules, where ligands that support self-renewal are likely distributed widely. This contrasts with the classic picture of closed (or definitive) niches in which stem cells are gathered and the ligands are highly localized. Some of the key properties observed in the dynamics of SSCs in the testicular niche in vivo, which show the flexible and stochastic (probabilistic) fate behaviors, are found to be generic for a wide range of, if not all, tissue stem cells. SSCs also show properties characteristic of an open niche-supported system, such as high motility. Motivated by the properties of SSCs, in this review, I will reconsider the potential unity and diversity of tissue stem cell systems, with an emphasis on the varying degrees of ligand distribution and stem cell motility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shosei Yoshida
- Division of Germ Cell Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences; and Department of Basic Biology, School of Life Science, SOKENDAI (Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi 444-8787, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Mast4 knockout shows the regulation of spermatogonial stem cell self-renewal via the FGF2/ERM pathway. Cell Death Differ 2020; 28:1441-1454. [PMID: 33219327 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-020-00670-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is an important cellular differentiation process that produces the male gametes and remains active throughout the individual's lifespan. Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCO) refers to the dysfunction of the male reproductive system, including infertility. Accurate self-renewal of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) is essential to prevent SCO syndrome. This study investigated the role of microtubule-associated serine/threonine kinase family member 4 (MAST4) in spermatogenesis in mice. MAST4 was localized in Sertoli cells before puberty, providing a somatic niche for spermatogenesis in mice and MAST4 expression shifted to Leydig cells and spermatids throughout puberty. Mast4 knockout (KO) testes were reduced in size compared to wild-type testes, and germ cell depletion associated with an increase in apoptosis and subsequent loss of tubular structure were similar to the SCO phenotype. In addition, MAST4 phosphorylated the Ets-related molecule (ERM), specifically the serine 367 residue. The phosphorylation of ERM ultimately controls the transcription of ERM target genes related to SSC self-renewal. The expression of spermatogenesis-associated proteins was significantly decreased whereas Sertoli cell markers were increased in Mast4 KO testes, which was well-founded by RNA-sequencing analysis. Therefore, MAST4 is associated with the fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2)/ERM pathway and this association helps us explore the capacity of SSCs to maintain a vertebrate stem cell niche.
Collapse
|
36
|
Yang F, Whelan EC, Guan X, Deng B, Wang S, Sun J, Avarbock MR, Wu X, Brinster RL. FGF9 promotes mouse spermatogonial stem cell proliferation mediated by p38 MAPK signalling. Cell Prolif 2020; 54:e12933. [PMID: 33107118 PMCID: PMC7791179 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) is expressed by somatic cells in the seminiferous tubules, yet little information exists about its role in regulating spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Materials and Methods Fgf9 overexpression lentivirus was injected into mouse testes, and PLZF immunostaining was performed to investigate the effect of FGF9 on spermatogonia in vivo. Effect of FGF9 on SSCs was detected by transplanting cultured germ cells into tubules of testes. RNA‐seq of bulk RNA and single cell was performed to explore FGF9 working mechanisms. SB203580 was used to disrupt p38 MAPK pathway. p38 MAPK protein expression was detected by Western blot and qPCR was performed to determine different gene expression. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to knock down Etv5 gene expression in germ cells. Results Overexpression of Fgf9 in vivo resulted in arrested spermatogenesis and accumulation of undifferentiated spermatogonia. Exposure of germ cell cultures to FGF9 resulted in larger numbers of SSCs over time. Inhibition of p38 MAPK phosphorylation negated the SSC growth advantage provided by FGF9. Etv5 and Bcl6b gene expressions were enhanced by FGF9 treatment. Gene knockdown of Etv5 disrupted the growth effect of FGF9 in cultured SSCs along with downstream expression of Bcl6b. Conclusions Taken together, these data indicate that FGF9 is an important regulator of SSC proliferation, operating through p38 MAPK phosphorylation and upregulating Etv5 and Bcl6b in turn.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Eoin C Whelan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Xuebing Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bingquan Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiachen Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mary R Avarbock
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Xin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ralph L Brinster
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Xie Y, Wei BH, Ni FD, Yang WX. Conversion from spermatogonia to spermatocytes: Extracellular cues and downstream transcription network. Gene 2020; 764:145080. [PMID: 32858178 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.145080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Spermatocyte (spc) formation from spermatogonia (spg) differentiation is the first step of spermatogenesis which produces prodigious spermatozoa for a lifetime. After decades of studies, several factors involved in the functioning of a mouse were discovered both inside and outside spg. Considering the peculiar expression and working pattern of each factor, this review divides the whole conversion of spg to spc into four consecutive development processes with a focus on extracellular cues and downstream transcription network in each one. Potential coordination among Dmrt1, Sohlh1/2 and BMP families mediates Ngn3 upregulation, which marks progenitor spg, with other changes. After that, retinoic acid (RA), as a master regulator, promotes A1 spg formation with its helpers and Sall4. A1-to-B spg transition is under the control of Kitl and impulsive RA signaling together with early and late transcription factors Stra8 and Dmrt6. Finally, RA and its responsive effectors conduct the entry into meiosis. The systematic transcription network from outside to inside still needs research to supplement or settle the controversials in each process. As a step further ahead, this review provides possible drug targets for infertility therapy by cross-linking humans and mouse model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Xie
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bang-Hong Wei
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fei-Da Ni
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Du X, Wu S, Wei Y, Yu X, Ma F, Zhai Y, Yang D, Zhang M, Liu W, Zhu H, Wu J, Liao M, Li N, Bai C, Li G, Hua J. PAX7 promotes CD49f-positive dairy goat spermatogonial stem cells' self-renewal. J Cell Physiol 2020; 236:1481-1493. [PMID: 32692417 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process that originates from and depends on the spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). The number of SSCs is rare, which makes the separation and enrichment of SSCs difficult and inefficient. The transcription factor PAX7 maintains fertility in normal spermatogenesis in mice. However, for large animals, much less is known about the SSCs' self-renewal regulation, especially in dairy goats. We isolated and enriched the CD49f-positive and negative dairy goat testicular cells by magnetic-activated cell sorting strategies. The RNA- sequencing and experimental data revealed that cells with a high CD49f and PAX7 expression are undifferentiated spermatogonia in goat testis. Our findings indicated that ZBTB16 (PLZF), PAX7, LIN28A, BMPR1B, FGFR1, and FOXO1 were expressed higher in CD49f-positive cells as compared to negative cells and goat fibroblasts cells. The expression and distribution of PAX7 in dairy goat also have been detected, which gradually decreased in testis tissue along with the increasing age. When the PAX7 gene was overexpressed in dairy goat immortal mGSCs-I-SB germ cell lines, the expression of PLZF, GFRα1, ID4, and OCT4 was upregulated. Together, our data demonstrated that there is a subset of spermatogonial stem cells with a high expression of PAX7 among the CD49f+ spermatogonia, and PAX7 can maintain the self-renewal of CD49f-positive SSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Du
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Siyu Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yudong Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiuwei Yu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Fanglin Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuanxin Zhai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Donghui Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Mengfei Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenqing Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Haijing Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Life Science Research Center, Yulin University, Yulin, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiang Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,College of Agriculture, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Mingzhi Liao
- College of Life Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Na Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chunling Bai
- Key Laboratory for Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Guangpeng Li
- Key Laboratory for Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Jinlian Hua
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Law NC, Oatley JM. Developmental underpinnings of spermatogonial stem cell establishment. Andrology 2020; 8:852-861. [PMID: 32356598 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The germline serves as a conduit for transmission of genetic and epigenetic information from one generation to the next. In males, spermatozoa are the final carriers of inheritance and their continual production is supported by a foundational population of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) that forms from prospermatogonial precursors during the early stages of neonatal development. In mammals, the timing for which SSCs are specified and the underlying mechanisms guiding this process remain to be completely understood. OBJECTIVES To propose an evolving concept for how the foundational SSC population is established. MATERIALS AND METHODS This review summarizes recent and historical findings from peer-reviewed publications made primarily with mouse models while incorporating limited studies from humans and livestock. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Establishment of the SSC population appears to follow a biphasic pattern involving a period of fate programming followed by an establishment phase that culminates in formation of the SSC population. This model for establishment of the foundational SSC population from precursors is anticipated to extend across mammalian species and include humans and livestock, albeit on different timescales.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan C Law
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Jon M Oatley
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
SOX3 promotes generation of committed spermatogonia in postnatal mouse testes. Sci Rep 2020; 10:6751. [PMID: 32317665 PMCID: PMC7174399 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-63290-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
SOX3 is a transcription factor expressed within the developing and adult nervous system where it mostly functions to help maintain neural precursors. Sox3 is also expressed in other locations, notably within the spermatogonial stem/progenitor cell population in postnatal testis. Independent studies have shown that Sox3 null mice exhibit a spermatogenic block as young adults, the mechanism of which remains poorly understood. Using a panel of spermatogonial cell marker genes, we demonstrate that Sox3 is expressed within the committed progenitor fraction of the undifferentiated spermatogonial pool. Additionally, we use a Sox3 null mouse model to define a potential role for this factor in progenitor cell function. We demonstrate that Sox3 expression is required for transition of undifferentiated cells from a GFRα1+ self-renewing state to the NGN3 + transit-amplifying compartment. Critically, using chromatin immunoprecipitation, we demonstrate that SOX3 binds to a highly conserved region in the Ngn3 promoter region in vivo, indicating that Ngn3 is a direct target of SOX3. Together these studies indicate that SOX3 functions as a pro-commitment factor in spermatogonial stem/progenitor cells.
Collapse
|
41
|
Singh P, Patel RK, Palmer N, Grenier JK, Paduch D, Kaldis P, Grimson A, Schimenti JC. CDK2 kinase activity is a regulator of male germ cell fate. Development 2019; 146:dev180273. [PMID: 31582414 PMCID: PMC6857589 DOI: 10.1242/dev.180273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The ability of men to remain fertile throughout their lives depends upon establishment of a spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) pool from gonocyte progenitors, and thereafter balancing SSC renewal versus terminal differentiation. Here, we report that precise regulation of the cell cycle is crucial for this balance. Whereas cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (Cdk2) is not necessary for mouse viability or gametogenesis stages prior to meiotic prophase I, mice bearing a deregulated allele (Cdk2Y15S ) are severely deficient in spermatogonial differentiation. This allele disrupts an inhibitory phosphorylation site (Tyr15) for the kinase WEE1. Remarkably, Cdk2Y15S/Y15S mice possess abnormal clusters of mitotically active SSC-like cells, but these are eventually removed by apoptosis after failing to differentiate properly. Analyses of lineage markers, germ cell proliferation over time, and single cell RNA-seq data revealed delayed and defective differentiation of gonocytes into SSCs. Biochemical and genetic data demonstrated that Cdk2Y15S is a gain-of-function allele causing elevated kinase activity, which underlies these differentiation defects. Our results demonstrate that precise regulation of CDK2 kinase activity in male germ cell development is crucial for the gonocyte-to-spermatogonia transition and long-term spermatogenic homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priti Singh
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Ravi K Patel
- Cornell University, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Nathan Palmer
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138673
- Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Republic of Singapore
| | - Jennifer K Grenier
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Darius Paduch
- Cornell University, Weill Cornell Medicine, Department of Urology, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Philipp Kaldis
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138673
- Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Republic of Singapore
| | - Andrew Grimson
- Cornell University, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - John C Schimenti
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
La HM, Hobbs RM. Mechanisms regulating mammalian spermatogenesis and fertility recovery following germ cell depletion. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:4071-4102. [PMID: 31254043 PMCID: PMC11105665 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03201-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a highly complex multi-step process sustained by a population of mitotic germ cells with self-renewal potential known as spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). The maintenance and regulation of SSC function are strictly dependent on a supportive niche that is composed of multiple cell types. A detailed appreciation of the molecular mechanisms underpinning SSC activity and fate is of fundamental importance for spermatogenesis and male fertility. However, different models of SSC identity and spermatogonial hierarchy have been proposed and recent studies indicate that cell populations supporting steady-state germline maintenance and regeneration following damage are distinct. Importantly, dynamic changes in niche properties may underlie the fate plasticity of spermatogonia evident during testis regeneration. While formation of spermatogenic colonies in germ-cell-depleted testis upon transplantation is a standard assay for SSCs, differentiation-primed spermatogonial fractions have transplantation potential and this assay provides readout of regenerative rather than steady-state stem cell capacity. The characterisation of spermatogonial populations with regenerative capacity is essential for the development of clinical applications aimed at restoring fertility in individuals following germline depletion by genotoxic treatments. This review will discuss regulatory mechanisms of SSCs in homeostatic and regenerative testis and the conservation of these mechanisms between rodent models and man.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hue M La
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Robin M Hobbs
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|