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Ferraz JF, de Oliveira RS, Santiago CS, Soares EM, Morielle-Versute E, Taboga SR, Beguelini MR. The marked dextro-dominance causes accentuated morphophysiological variations in the female reproductive organs of the bat Molossus molossus. Tissue Cell 2023; 85:102245. [PMID: 37856937 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Molossus molossus is an insectivorous molossid bat that is important in the control of nocturnal insects. It is the nominal and the most representative species of the family. However, there are few studies about its reproduction. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate variations of its female reproductive organs during the different reproductive phases. Twenty adult females, divided into four sample groups (non-reproductive, early and advanced pregnancy and lactation), were submitted to morphological and morphometric analyses. Results show that the female reproductive system of M. molossus is composed of ovaries, a short bicornuate uterus, slightly convoluted uterine tubes and vagina. The system presents a distinct morphofunctional asymmetry, with a marked dextro-dominance. The right ovaries of all analyzed groups (NON, P1, P2, and LAC) showed follicles at different stages of development, a large number of interstitial glands and a small, but persistent corpus luteum. Ovulation is simple, unilateral and preferential, occurring exclusively in the right ovary. Follicular development in the left ovary usually does not pass the secondary stage. Implantation is fundic and preferential, occurring exclusively in the right uterine horn. The placenta is formed with two distinct chorioallantoic portions, one diffuse endotheliochorial, which covers the entire uterine cavity and regresses in the final stages of pregnancy, and the principal discoidal hemochorial portion, formed in the implantation site. The uterine cervix presents a pseudostratified epithelium, while the vagina has a little keratinized stratified epithelium, which does not accentually vary in the different reproductive stages, but can disrupt and shed in some cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana F Ferraz
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Univ. Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo S de Oliveira
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Univ. Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Cornélio S Santiago
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Univ. Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Emília M Soares
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Univ. Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sebastião R Taboga
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mateus R Beguelini
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Univ. Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
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2
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Andrade CS, Pletsch ÂA, Soares EM, Morielle-Versute E, Taboga SR, Souza CC, Beguelini MR. Annual reproductive cycle of males of the great fruit-eating bat, Artibeus lituratus: Testicular variations, abiotic regulation and sperm analysis. Tissue Cell 2023; 83:102131. [PMID: 37315504 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Artibeus lituratus is one of the most well-known bat species in the Neotropics, probably due to its high abundance and the ability to inhabit urban areas. It plays an important ecological role in the ecosystem due to its ability to disperse seeds, which contributes to the regeneration of degraded areas. Actually, the species has been used as an important experimental model for ecotoxicological studies of the impact of pesticides on male reproduction. Despite that, the reproductive pattern of A. lituratus is still controversial due to inconsistent descriptions of the reproductive cycle. Thus, the aim of the present work was to evaluate the annual variations of the testicular parameters and sperm quality of A. lituratus and analyze their responses to annual variations in abiotic factors in the Cerrado area in Brazil. Testes of five specimens were collected each month for one year (12 sample groups) and submitted to histological, morphometric, and immunohistochemical analyses. Analyses of the sperm quality were also performed. Results demonstrate that A. lituratus presents a continuously active process of spermatogenesis throughout the year, with two significant peaks in spermatogenic production (September-October and March), which indicates a bimodal polyestric pattern of reproduction. These reproductive peaks seem to be related to an increase in proliferation and, consequently, in the number of spermatogonia. Conversely, seasonal variations in testicular parameters are correlated with annual fluctuations in rainfall and photoperiod but not with temperature. In general, the species presents smaller spermatogenic indexes with a similar sperm quantity and quality to other bat species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cleber S Andrade
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Ândrea A Pletsch
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Emília M Soares
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sebastião R Taboga
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carolina C Souza
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Mateus R Beguelini
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
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3
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Pimentel PB, Santigo CS, Ferraz JF, Morielle-Versute E, Taboga SR, Souza CC, Beguelini MR. Morphophysiology of the male reproductive accessory glands of the bat Pteronotus gymnonotus (Mormoopidae: Chiroptera). Tissue Cell 2023; 80:101991. [PMID: 36462383 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2022.101991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Mormoopidae is an exclusive Neotropical family of bats, distributed from southern Mexico to northeastern Brazil. Possibly due to its endemic distribution and very low occurrence (rarity), descriptions of their reproductive accessory glands (RAGs) are still lacking. Thus, this study aims to characterize the male RAGs of Pteronotus gymnonotus (Mormoopidae: Chiroptera). Results demonstrate that the RAGs of P. gymnonotus is composed of a prostatic complex, comprising two regions (ventral and dorsal prostates); urethral (Littre) glands, a pair of bulbourethral and ampullary glands, with the absence of seminal vesicles. The ventral prostate has an atypical epithelium, due to its holocrine secretion; which contains numerous PAS-positive globular vesicles. The dorsal prostate has a cubic-to-columnar pseudostratified epithelium, containing fluid PAS-negative secretion. The ampullary glands present cubic-to-columnar pseudostratified epithelium, with secretion varying from granular and PAS-negative to fluid and PAS-positive. Urethral glands are dispersed in the submucosa of the urethra, while the bulbourethral glands are located in the penile root. Both glands have cubic-to-columnar pseudostratified epithelium with PAS-positive globular secretion. In conclusion, we propose that the RAGs of P. gymnonotus possibly evolved from a common emballonurid ancestor, shared with the families Phyllostomidae and Noctilionidae, but with the development of an exclusive apomorphy, the ampullary glands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pollyana B Pimentel
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Cornélio S Santigo
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Juliana F Ferraz
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Sebastião R Taboga
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Carolina C Souza
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Mateus R Beguelini
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
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4
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Pimentel PB, Ferraz JF, Santigo CS, Soares EM, Morielle-Versute E, Taboga SR, Souza CC, Beguelini MR. Comparative analysis of male reproductive accessory glands in bats Histiotus velatus (Vespertilionidae), Molossus rufus (Molossidae), and Peropteryx leucoptera (Emballonuridae). Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2022. [PMID: 36579698 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Despite the high number of species and wide geographic dispersion, reproductive accessory glands (RAGs) of bats have traditionally received little attention in the literature, with some species not even having a basic description of their composition and structure. Thus, this study aimed to analyze and compare the composition, anatomy, and histology of male RAGs of bat species belonging to three of the largest (cosmopolitan) bat families: Vespertilionidae (Histiotus velatus), Molossidae (Molossus rufus), and Emballonuridae (Peropteryx leucoptera), in order to understand the variations in the bat RAGs. The results showed that the RAGs of H. velatus, M. rufus, and P. leucoptera are composed of an intra-abdominal prostatic complex, associated with the urethra, urethral glands, and a pair of inguinal bulbourethral glands; without ampullary glands or seminal vesicles. The prostatic complex can be composed of two (M. rufus and P. leucoptera) or three (H. velatus) prostatic regions, and can be compact (P. leucoptera), semi-lobed (M. rufus), or multilobed (H. velatus). Each prostatic region has unique and distinct characteristics, with the ventral region presenting a holocrine nature, exclusive to bats; while the dorsal and/or dorsolateral regions have similar characteristics to the ventral prostate of rats and to the human peripheral zone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pollyana B Pimentel
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Juliana Filgueira Ferraz
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Cornélio Souza Santigo
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Emília Miguel Soares
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany, UNESP - University Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sebastião R Taboga
- Department of Biology, UNESP - University Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carolina C Souza
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Mateus R Beguelini
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
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5
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Albernaz ESS, Santiago CS, Guerra LHA, Santos FCA, Góes RM, Morielle-Versute E, Taboga SR, Souza CC, Beguelini MR. The prostate of the bat Artibeus lituratus: Seasonal variations, abiotic regulation, and hormonal control. J Morphol 2021; 282:1188-1207. [PMID: 33913176 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The prostate is an important gland that contributes to the male reproductive process, producing secretions that are essential for maintaining ideal conditions for the survival of sperm. Studies indicate a wide variation in the occurrence, morphology, and physiology of this gland in mammals, especially in bats, with this variation being related not only to the number of regions and their degree of compaction/lobulation but also to fluctuations in their functioning throughout the year. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the annual morphological and physiological variations of the male prostate of Artibeus lituratus and analyze their responses to annual abiotic variations and hormonal control. Sixty sexually adult males of A. lituratus were analyzed in this study, with five specimens collected monthly. Blood samples were submitted to serum hormone measurements and the prostates were morphologically, morphometrically, and immunohistochemically analyzed. The results indicated that the two prostatic regions (ventral and dorsal) of A. lituratus had different morphology, as well as different physiology and regulation. Annual fluctuations in abiotic factors seemed to influence the dorsal region more than the ventral region. Conversely, variations on testicular factors, such as testosterone and estradiol, influenced the ventral region more than the dorsal region. Despite these differences, both prostatic regions were strongly synchronized to the main reproductive peak of the species in September. The holocrine pattern of the ventral prostate was not directly affected by abiotic factors or by factors released by the testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edna S S Albernaz
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Cornélio S Santiago
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Luiz H A Guerra
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda C A Santos
- Department of Histology and Embryology, UFG - Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Rejane M Góes
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sebastião R Taboga
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carolina C Souza
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Mateus R Beguelini
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
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6
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Soares EM, Ferraz JF, Oliveira RS, Dias LIS, Santiago CS, Pletsch AA, Morielle-Versute E, Taboga SR, Souza CC, Beguelini MR. The process of testicular regression also impacts the physiology of the epididymis of the bat Molossus molossus, although with a delay in epididymal response due to sperm storage. Acta Histochem 2021; 123:151697. [PMID: 33662820 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Responsible for post-testicular maturation, concentration, protection and sperm storage, the epididymis is an organ that can be easily subdivided into three segments: caput, corpus and cauda. Each epididymal region displays different morphology and functions within the sperm maturation process. Despite the great importance of this organ, studies on its morphology and hormonal control in bats remain scarce. Thus, the aim of this study was to morphologically analyze the epididymis of the bat Molossus molossus (Chiroptera: Molossidae), in order to evaluate its morphological and morphometric variations, as well as some aspects of its hormonal control during the annual reproductive cycle. For this purpose, 60 sexually adult males were used in this study, comprising five specimens collected monthly for one year to form 12 sample groups. The epididymis was subjected to morphological, morphometric and immunohistochemical analyses. The results demonstrated that the processes of total testicular regression and posterior recrudescence suffered by M. molossus also impacts the physiology of the epididymis, however, a delay in the epididymal response is seen due to the storage of sperm. Similar to other mammals, the epididymis of M. molossus has a large predominance of principal and basal cells. The epididymal seasonal variations appear to be directly correlated to rainfall and photoperiod, but not to temperature. Meanwhile, epididymal physiology appears to be regulated, at least partially, by the expression of the androgen receptor in epithelial cells, which has agonist effects on cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emília M Soares
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Juliana F Ferraz
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Rodrigo S Oliveira
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Luíza I S Dias
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Cornélio S Santiago
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Andrea A Pletsch
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Sebastião R Taboga
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Carolina C Souza
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Mateus R Beguelini
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
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7
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Beguelini MR, Santiago CS, Guerra LHA, Santos FCA, Góes RM, Morielle-Versute E, Taboga SR. The hormonal control of the uterus of the bat Myotis nigricans during its different reproductive phases: emphasis on progesterone and estradiol. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 384:211-229. [PMID: 33409655 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03342-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Myotis nigricans is a species of bat from the Vespertilionidae family that is endemic of the Neotropical region. Its insectivorous feeding habit plus its large range of prey species, great geographical dispersion, wide colonies, and anthropomorphized behavior make this species an important ecological agent that acts in the control of nocturnal insects. Reproductively, M. nigricans presents geographic variations, having different patterns of reproduction according to its geographical location. Despite these extremely interesting characteristics, no more detailed study of the hormonal control of the reproduction of this species has been conducted. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the variations in serum hormone concentrations and in uterine hormonal control of this bat during its different reproductive phases. Twenty adult females were collected, divided into four (4) sample groups, according to the reproductive status (nonreproductive, initial, and advanced pregnancy and lactating), and submitted to hormone dosage and immunohistochemical analyses. The results demonstrated that the uterus of M. nigricans is strongly regulated by the interaction/cross-talk between serum concentrations of estradiol (E2) and progesterone with their respective hormone receptors. Significant increases in the concentration of E2 and progesterone are needed to regulate the early pregnancy. The persistence of the corpus luteum throughout pregnancy is necessary, since its placenta does not express aromatase. The expressions of ERα and PR appear to be synchronized in order to coordinate a large portion of the processes that occur inside the uterus of M. nigricans during pregnancy and lactation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus R Beguelini
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal Do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Cornélio S Santiago
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal Do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Luiz H A Guerra
- Department of Biology, UNESP - University Estadual Paulista, São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda C A Santos
- Department of Histology and Embryology, UFG - Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Rejane M Góes
- Department of Biology, UNESP - University Estadual Paulista, São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany, UNESP - University Estadual Paulista, São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sebastião R Taboga
- Department of Biology, UNESP - University Estadual Paulista, São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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8
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Santiago CS, Albernaz ESS, Santos RTS, Guerra LHA, Santos FCA, Góes RM, Morielle-Versute E, Taboga SR, Beguelini MR. Evaluation of the uterine hormonal control of the bat Artibeus lituratus during the different phases of its reproductive cycle. J Morphol 2020; 281:302-315. [PMID: 31904879 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Artibeus lituratus is a frugivorous bat that directly assists in the restoration of degraded habitats through the effective dispersion of seeds and fruits. Given its great importance, this work aimed to evaluate the uterine hormonal control of A. lituratus during its different reproductive phases. The uteri of 30 sexually mature adult females, five specimens for each of the six sample groups (NON, nonreproductive; P1, initial pregnancy; P2, intermediate pregnancy; P3, advanced pregnancy; LAC, lactating; P + LAC, pregnant-lactating), were submitted to analyses of serum estradiol and progesterone concentrations, in addition to immunohistochemical analyses. Both estradiol and progesterone, gradually increased during pregnancy, with a marked significant increase in P3 females. Both returned to low levels in LAC-females; however, estradiol levels decreased further in P + LAC-females, while progesterone increased in the same group. In general, signs indicative of aromatase expression were observed in the endometrium of all analyzed groups and in the placenta of bats in the gestation groups. Similarly, ERα and PR were expressed in the myometrium, endometrium and placenta at varying levels of intensity. The results indicate that the uterine microenvironment of A. lituratus is directly regulated by serum concentrations of estradiol and progesterone, and fluctuations in these concentrations control morphological and physiological changes of this organ during different phases of the reproductive cycle. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Increases in serum concentrations of estradiol and progesterone coordinate the gestational period of A. lituratus. Estradiol activates ERα, stimulating cell proliferation in the uterus, in addition to activating the expression of PR, which trigger the quiescence of the myometrium and stimulation of the secretion and differentiation of the endometrium. Results showed several similarities to humans, indicating the use of A. lituratus as an animal model in reproductive studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornélio S Santiago
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Edna S S Albernaz
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Renata T S Santos
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Luiz H A Guerra
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda C A Santos
- Department of Histology and Embryology, UFG - Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Rejane M Góes
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sebastião R Taboga
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mateus R Beguelini
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil
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9
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Rodrigues AF, Santiago CS, Morielle‐Versute E, Taboga SR, Beguelini MR. Morphological variation of the female reproductive organs of the bat
Artibeus lituratus
during its different reproductive phases. J Morphol 2019; 280:1141-1155. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alderrosy F. Rodrigues
- Center of Biological and Health ScienceUFOB—Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia Barreiras Bahia Brazil
| | - Cornélio S. Santiago
- Center of Biological and Health ScienceUFOB—Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia Barreiras Bahia Brazil
| | - Eliana Morielle‐Versute
- Department of Zoology and BotanyUNESP—Univ. Estadual Paulista São José do Rio Preto São Paulo Brazil
| | - Sebastião R. Taboga
- Department of BiologyUNESP—Univ. Estadual Paulista São José do Rio Preto São Paulo Brazil
| | - Mateus R. Beguelini
- Center of Biological and Health ScienceUFOB—Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia Barreiras Bahia Brazil
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10
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Santos RTS, Pires LRM, Albernaz ESS, Andrade CS, Santiago CS, Morielle-Versute E, Taboga SR, Beguelini MR. Morphological analysis of the male reproductive accessory glands of the batArtibeus lituratus(Phyllostomidae: Chiroptera). J Morphol 2017; 279:228-241. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Renata T. S. Santos
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia; Barreiras Bahia Brazil
| | - Laís R. M. Pires
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia; Barreiras Bahia Brazil
| | - Edna S. S. Albernaz
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia; Barreiras Bahia Brazil
| | - Cleber S. Andrade
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia; Barreiras Bahia Brazil
| | - Cornélio S. Santiago
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia; Barreiras Bahia Brazil
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany; UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista; São José do Rio Preto São Paulo Brazil
| | - Sebastião R. Taboga
- Department of Biology; UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista; São José do Rio Preto São Paulo Brazil
| | - Mateus R. Beguelini
- Center of Biological and Health Science, UFOB - Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia; Barreiras Bahia Brazil
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11
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Beguelini MR, Puga CCI, Morielle-Versute E, Taboga SR. Comparative analysis of the male reproductive accessory glands of bats Noctilio albiventris
(Noctilionidae) and Rhynchonycteris naso
(Emballonuridae). J Morphol 2016; 277:1459-1468. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Revised: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mateus R. Beguelini
- Center of Biological and Health Sciences; UFOB-Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia; Barreiras Bahia 47808-021 Brazil
| | - Cintia C. I. Puga
- Department of Zoology and Botany; UNESP-Univ. Estadual Paulista; São José do Rio Preto São Paulo 15054-000 Brazil
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany; UNESP-Univ. Estadual Paulista; São José do Rio Preto São Paulo 15054-000 Brazil
| | - Sebastião R. Taboga
- Department of Biology; UNESP-Univ. Estadual Paulista; São José do Rio Preto São Paulo 15054-000 Brazil
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12
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Martins FF, Beguelini MR, Puga CC, Morielle-Versute E, Vilamaior PS, Taboga SR. Morphophysiology and ultrastructure of the male reproductive accessory glands of the bats Carollia perspicillata, Glossophaga soricina and Phyllostomus discolor (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae). Acta Histochem 2016; 118:640-651. [PMID: 27425652 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2016.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The male reproductive accessory glands (RAGs) are important organs that contribute to the secretion of different substances that composed the ejaculate. Despite this important function, their composition, anatomy and function vary widely between species. Thus, the RAGs of three species of phyllostomid bats were morphologically and ultrastructurally characterized and compared in this study. The RAGs of the three analyzed species are composed of a prostate and a pair of bulbourethral glands (BG). In all species, the prostate is composed of three well-defined regions (ventral, dorsolateral and dorsal regions). The ventral region showed an atypical epithelium (undefined) with no obvious cellular limits and a holocrine PAS-positive secretion. The dorsolateral region of Carollia perspicillata and Phyllostomus discolor showed a pseudostratified cubic morphology, and that from Glossophaga soricina had a columnar morphology endowed with cytoplasmic projections and stereocilia. The dorsal region of the three analyzed species is composed of a pseudostratified columnar epithelium endowed with stereocilia; however, G. soricina also presented cytoplasmic projections in the apical portions of the secretory cells similar to those in the dorsolateral region. The BG of the three analyzed species are composed of a pseudostratified columnar epithelium including basal and PAS-positive secretory cells. In conclusion, this study morphologically and ultrastructurally characterized the RAGs of three species of phyllostomid bats, demonstrating the presence of a novel third prostatic region in species of this family. The results also showed the absence of seminal vesicles and ampullary glands, and better characterized the holocrine pattern of the prostatic ventral region, which is unique to bats.
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13
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Puga CC, Beguelini MR, Morielle-Versute E, Vilamaior PS, Taboga SR. The effects of castration followed testosterone supplementation in prostatic complex of Artibeus planirostris (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae). Tissue Cell 2016; 48:252-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2016.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Revised: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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14
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Beguelini MR, Góes RM, Rahal P, Morielle‐Versute E, Taboga SR. Impact of the processes of testicular regression and recrudescence in the prostatic complex of the bat
M
yotis nigricans
(
C
hiroptera:
V
espertilionidae). J Morphol 2015; 276:721-32. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2014] [Revised: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mateus R. Beguelini
- Department of BiologyUNESP—Univ. Estadual PaulistaSão José do Rio PretoSão Paulo Brazil15054‐000
| | - Rejane M. Góes
- Department of BiologyUNESP—Univ. Estadual PaulistaSão José do Rio PretoSão Paulo Brazil15054‐000
| | - Paula Rahal
- Department of BiologyUNESP—Univ. Estadual PaulistaSão José do Rio PretoSão Paulo Brazil15054‐000
| | - Eliana Morielle‐Versute
- Department of Zoology and BotanyUNESP—Univ. Estadual PaulistaSão José do Rio PretoSão Paulo Brazil15054‐000
| | - Sebastião R. Taboga
- Department of BiologyUNESP—Univ. Estadual PaulistaSão José do Rio PretoSão Paulo Brazil15054‐000
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15
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Christante CM, Beguelini MR, Puga CCI, Negrin AC, Morielle-Versute E, Vilamaior PSL, Taboga SR. Structure, histochemistry and seasonal variations of the male reproductive accessory glands in the Pallas’s mastiff bat, Molossus molossus (Chiroptera: Molossidae). Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 27:313-22. [DOI: 10.1071/rd13232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to their wide geographical distribution, bats suffer considerable influence from abiotic factors on their reproductive strategies, detected through behavioural or functional assessment of the gonads and accessory glands. The present study aimed to characterise anatomically and morphologically the reproductive accessory glands (RAGs) of Molossus molossus (Molossidae) and evaluate their seasonal variations. The RAGs were removed, fixed, sectioned after histological processing and submitted to the following stains: haematoxylin–eosin, periodic acid–Schiff (PAS) and Gömöri’s reticulin. Our data demonstrated that the RAGs of M. molossus are composed of a semi-lobed prostatic complex associated with the urethra and a pair of inguinal bulbourethral glands. Histology and three-dimensional reconstruction of the prostatic complex demonstrated the existence of two regions: ventral and dorsal (named according to the position around the urethra). The two regions had distinctive morphological and histological differences, with the ventral region being the most prominent and the dorsal formed by four lobes. Considering the seasonal evaluation, we can infer that the prostatic complex of M. molossus is active throughout the seasons in São Paulo State (Brazil) and, although each of the prostatic regions has inherent characteristics, they synchronise to establish the main reproductive peak in spring (early rainy season).
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16
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Martins FF, Puga CC, Beguelini MR, Morielle-Versute E, Vilamaior PS, Taboga SR. Comparative analysis of the male reproductive accessory glands of bat species from the five Brazilian Subfamilies of the family Phyllostomidae (Chiroptera). J Morphol 2014; 276:470-80. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Revised: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fabiane F. Martins
- Department of Biology; UNESP-Universidade Estadual Paulista; São José do Rio Preto São Paulo 15054-000 Brazil
| | - Cintia C.I. Puga
- Department of Biology; UNESP-Universidade Estadual Paulista; São José do Rio Preto São Paulo 15054-000 Brazil
| | - Mateus R. Beguelini
- Department of Biology; UNESP-Universidade Estadual Paulista; São José do Rio Preto São Paulo 15054-000 Brazil
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany; UNESP-Universidade Estadual Paulista; São José do Rio Preto São Paulo 15054-000 Brazil
| | - Patricia S.L. Vilamaior
- Department of Biology; UNESP-Universidade Estadual Paulista; São José do Rio Preto São Paulo 15054-000 Brazil
| | - Sebastião R. Taboga
- Department of Biology; UNESP-Universidade Estadual Paulista; São José do Rio Preto São Paulo 15054-000 Brazil
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17
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Bueno LM, Beguelini MR, Comelis MT, Taboga SR, Morielle-Versute E. Ultrastructure of spermatogenesis, spermatozoon and processes of testicular regression and recrudescence in Eptesicus furinalis (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae). Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 148:228-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2014] [Revised: 05/27/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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18
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Beguelini MR, Falleiros LR, Góes RM, Rahal P, Morielle-Versute E, Taboga SR. Differential expression of aromatase, estrogen receptor alpha and 17β-HSD associated with the processes of total testicular regression and recrudescence in the bat Myotis nigricans (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 201:53-64. [PMID: 24726986 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.03.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Revised: 03/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Despite the worldwide distribution and many unique reproductive adaptations that bats present, many aspects of their reproductive hormonal regulation have not been adequately studied, especially in species that presented patterns of total testicular regression. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the testicular expression of 17β-HSD type 1, aromatase and ERα in the bat Myotis nigricans, during the four periods of its reproductive cycle. Immunoreactivity for ERα was detected only in the cytoplasm of elongated spermatids and in the nuclei of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells. Expression of aromatase was observed in round and elongated spermatids and in Sertoli and Leydig cells. Immunoreactivity for 17β-HSD was restricted to the cytoplasm of Leydig cells. The three expression patterns varied significantly during the four periods of the reproductive cycle. Expression of ERα and aromatase in spermatids was continuous, while expression of ERα in spermatogonia occurred only in initial types (Ap). Expression of ERα and aromatase in Sertoli cells varied, with expression only in periods of spermatogenetic activities; and the same variation was observed for the expression of aromatase and 17β-HSD in Leydig cells. We, therefore, propose that the processes of total testicular regression and posterior recrudescence suffered by M. nigricans from September to January in the northwest of the São Paulo State of Brazil, are directly regulated by testosterone and estrogen. This occurs via the production of testosterone by 17β-HSD, its conversion into estrogen by aromatase, and activation/deactivation of Sertoli cells' AR and spermatogonia's ERα.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus R Beguelini
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil.
| | - Luiz R Falleiros
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil.
| | - Rejane M Góes
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil.
| | - Paula Rahal
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil.
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil.
| | - Sebastião R Taboga
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil.
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19
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Puga CCI, Beguelini MR, Martins FF, Falleiros LR, Morielle-Versute E, Vilamaior PSL, Taboga SR. Seasonal changes in the prostatic complex of Artibeus planirostris (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 197:33-42. [PMID: 24345383 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2013] [Revised: 12/02/2013] [Accepted: 12/06/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The male reproductive accessory glands are important organs that secrete products that ensure the survival, viability and motility of spermatozoa, not only in the male reproductive tract, but also in the female. Most studies relating to the reproduction of bats do not include these glands, and detailed studies of these glands describing annual variations in the morphology and physiology are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of these variations on morphophysiology of the prostatic complex (PC) of Artibeus planirostris (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae). Adult males were collected from June 2009 to July 2010, and the PC was subjected to various analyses. We observed that the PC showed marked variations throughout the year. Both PC and testicular weight increased synchronously with an increasing rate of circulating testosterone, from the autumn until summer, demonstrating that both organs are regulated by this hormone. Each region of the PC (ventral and dorsal) was unique and distinct. The ventral region showed the glandular lumen as a predominant component, in contrast to the dorsal introduced epithelium; acid phosphatase activity was observed in the epithelium of all acini in the dorsal region, but only in the stroma of the ventral region, in addition each region responded differently to variations in the environment and circulating testosterone. We concluded that the PC of A. planirostris produces two secretory peaks, which were related to a gradual increase in the rate of circulating testosterone, which stimulates both of the prostate regions to prepare for the two reproductive periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cíntia C I Puga
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Mateus R Beguelini
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Fabiane F Martins
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Luiz Roberto Falleiros
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Patricia S L Vilamaior
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Sebastião R Taboga
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil.
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20
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Negrin AC, Beguelini MR, Puga CCI, Christante CM, Bueno LM, Morielle-Versute E, Vilamaior PSL, Taboga SR. Structure, histochemistry, ultrastructure and seasonal variations of the male prostatic complex in the black Myotis bat, Myotis nigricans (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae). Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 26:1188-97. [DOI: 10.1071/rd13217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Chiroptera are one of the most diverse orders of mammals and a unique group within Mammalia that posses a wide geographic distribution and considerable variability in reproductive strategies. The aims of the present study were to characterise the male prostatic complex of the bat Myotis nigricans (Vespertilionidae) and evaluate seasonal variations in the prostatic complex of M. nigricans specifically. Twenty-three sexually mature specimens (four sample groups: winter, spring, summer and autumn) were subjected to macroscopic, microscopic, morphometric and ultrastructural analyses. The reproductive accessory glands of M. nigricans were found to be composed of a multilobed complex associated with the urethra and a pair of inguinal bulbourethral glands. The complex was composed of three bilobed prostatic regions (ventral, dorsolateral and dorsal) with no ampullary gland and seminal vesicles. This pattern of lobulation is very similar to that described for the prostate of rodents; however, it differs from that of other mammals and even other families of bats (e.g. Phyllostomidae and Molossidae). Each prostatic region in M. nigricans has unique and distinctive characteristics, which synchronise to establish the main reproductive peak of the species in summer. The data also indicated an asynchrony in the activity of primary and secondary reproductive organs in the annual reproductive cycle of M. nigricans in São Paulo State, Brazil.
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21
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Beguelini MR, Góes RM, Taboga SR, Morielle-Versute E. Two periods of total testicular regression are peculiar events of the annual reproductive cycle of the black Myotis bat, Myotis nigricans (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae). Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 26:834-46. [DOI: 10.1071/rd13109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Myotis nigricans presents few and controversial reproductive data, which indicate geographical variation in reproduction. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the seasonal modifications in testicular and epididymal morphologies in a tropical environment, submitting these organs to morphometric and immunohistochemical analysis. The observations revealed that this species presents two peaks of spermatogenic activity followed by two periods of total testicular regression (a quiescent pre-pubertal-like morphology, where only Sertoli cells and spermatogonia could be observed), in the same annual reproductive cycle, which seem to be only indirectly influenced by abiotic factors. This testicular behaviour seems to be synchronised with the caput and corpus epididymidis, but not with the cauda epididymidis, which presents aspects of sperm storage in May–June. The control of this variation seems to be directly linked to the expression of the androgen receptor, since, throughout the year, it is high in periods of testicular recrudescence and low in periods of deactivation. It is not thought to be directly linked to apoptosis, which is more pronounced in periods of recrudescence than in periods of regression.
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22
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Beguelini MR, Bueno LM, Caun DL, Taboga SR, Morielle-Versute E. Ultrastructure of spermatogenesis in the short-tailed fruit bat, Carollia perspicillata (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae: Carollinae). J Morphol 2013; 275:111-23. [PMID: 24142890 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2013] [Revised: 06/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Among species of the Chiroptera, spermatogenesis and the fully differentiated spermatozoa differ in morphological and ultrastructural detail. This study therefore aimed to ultrastructurally characterize the spermatogenesis and the spermatozoa of Carollia perspicillata (Phyllostomidae) and compare the process with other species of bats and mammals. The differentiation of spermatogonia is similar to other bats and to Primates, with three main spermatogonia types: Ad, Ap, and B. Meiotic divisions proceed similarly to those of most mammals and spermiogenesis is clearly divided into 12 steps, in the middle of the range of developmental steps for bats (9-16 steps). The process of acrosome formation is similar to that found in Platyrrhinus lineatus, with the acrosome formed by two different types of proacrosomal vesicles. The ultrastructure of the spermatozoon is similar to other bats already described and resembles the typical mammalian sperm model; however, its morphology differs from other mammals such as marsupials and rodents, on account of a simpler spermatozoon head morphology, which indicates a pattern that is more closely related to the sperm cells of humans and other primates. Our data demonstrated that spermatogenesis in C. perspicillata presents great ultrastructural similarities to P. lineatus. This pattern is not surprising, because both species belong to the same family (Phyllostomidae); however, it is observed that C. perspicillata presents some characteristics that are more closely related to phylogenetically distant species, such as Myotis nigricans (Vespertilionidae), which is a fact that deserves attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus R Beguelini
- Department of Biology, UNESP-Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, 15054-000, Brazil
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23
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Beguelini MR, Taboga SR, Morielle-Versute E. Ultrastructural characteristics of the spermatogenesis during the four phases of the annual reproductive cycle of the black myotis bat,Myotis nigricans(Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae). Microsc Res Tech 2013; 76:1035-49. [DOI: 10.1002/jemt.22264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2013] [Revised: 06/30/2013] [Accepted: 06/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mateus R. Beguelini
- Department of Biology; UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto; São Paulo 15054-000 Brazil
| | - Sebastião R. Taboga
- Department of Biology; UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto; São Paulo 15054-000 Brazil
| | - Eliana Morielle-Versute
- Department of Zoology and Botany; UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto; São Paulo 15054-000 Brazil
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Beguelini MR, Puga CCI, Taboga SR, Morielle-Versute E. Annual reproductive cycle of males of the flat-faced fruit-eating bat, Artibeus planirostris (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 185:80-9. [PMID: 23356978 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2012.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Revised: 12/12/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Artibeus planirostris is an endemic species of Phyllostomid bat from the Neotropical region. Some studies have indicated that it exhibits seasonal bimodal polyestry; however, others postulate that it may be able to produce young at any time during the year. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the annual variations in testicular and epididymal parameters of this species in southeast Brazil and try to understand how the reproduction of this species is regulated in this environment. Sixty mature male specimens, collected between June 2009 and May 2010, were submitted to morphometric and immunohistochemical analysis. Our study showed that A. planirostris presented a continuously active pattern of spermatogenesis throughout the year, presenting spermatozoa inside its cauda epididymis in all months, but with two pronounced peaks of spermatogenic production, one in September and other in February. We propose that the males developed these two peaks in order to produce sufficient sperm for the reproduction in a harem system and to synchronize with the female reproductive cycle, which had a bimodal polyestric pattern. Control of this variation is directly linked to the expression of the androgen receptor (AR) in Sertoli cells and to serum testosterone levels, which appear to synchronize to establish these two peaks. In the months preceding the two peaks, the testis have a higher expression of the AR, which possibly stimulates the increase in PCNA, and drives a gradual increase in the testicular parameters. Taken together the results suggest that if sperm storage happens in this species, it is of short duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus R Beguelini
- Department of Biology, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo 15054-000, Brazil
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Puga CCI, Beguelini MR, Negrin AC, Christante CM, Morielle-Versute E, Vilamaior PSL, Taboga SR. Structure, histochemistry and ultrastructure of the male reproductive accessory glands in the neotropical flat-faced fruit-eating bat Artibeus planirostris (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae). Reprod Fertil Dev 2013; 25:558-69. [DOI: 10.1071/rd12029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2011] [Accepted: 04/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Chiroptera, the second largest mammalian order, presents different reproductive strategies and unique reproductive features. However, there are few reports regarding male reproductive accessory glands (RAGs) in Chiroptera. Thus, the aim of the present study was to characterise the RAGs of the exclusively neotropical bat Artibeus planirostris (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) macroscopically, microscopically and ultrastructurally. The RAGs were composed of a prostatic complex with two regions (ventral and dorsal) and paraurethral and bulbourethral glands, but no seminal vesicles. The ventral region had an undefined epithelium, with secretory and basal cells, and its secretions were periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) positive. The dorsal region received both deferens ducts, had a columnar pseudostratified epithelium with secretory and basal cells. There were two types of secretions from the dorsal region: one that was basophilic and another that was mixed PAS positive and PAS negative. The paraurethral glands were dispersed in the connective tissue of the urethra, whereas the bulbourethral glands were located in the penile root. Histological and ultrastructural data confirmed the prostatic nature of the ventral and dorsal regions and the holocrine nature of the ventral region, with the latter finding never having been described previously for the prostate gland. Our findings demonstrate the wide discrepancy of RAGs between A. planirostris and other mammals in terms of their composition, structure and morphology.
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Beguelini MR, Puga CCI, Martins FF, Betoli AHS, Taboga SR, Morielle-Versute E. Morphological Variation of Primary Reproductive Structures in Males of Five Families of Neotropical Bats. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2012; 296:156-67. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.22613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Beguelini MR, Taboga SR, Morielle-Versute E. Ultrastructural characteristics of spermatogenesis in Pallas's mastiff bat, Molossus molossus (Chiroptera: Molossidae). Microsc Res Tech 2012; 75:856-68. [DOI: 10.1002/jemt.22005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2011] [Accepted: 12/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Beguelini MR, Puga CC, Taboga SR, Morielle-Versute E. Ultrastructure of spermatogenesis in the white-lined broad-nosed bat, Platyrrhinus lineatus (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae). Micron 2011; 42:586-99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2011.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2010] [Revised: 02/11/2011] [Accepted: 02/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Faria KC, Marchesin SRC, Moreira PRL, Beguelini MR, Morielle-Versute E. New insights into telomeric DNA sequence (TTAGGG)n location in bat chromosomes. Genet Mol Res 2009; 8:1079-84. [PMID: 19731218 DOI: 10.4238/vol8-3gmr637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Molossidae species, Cynomops abrasus (2n = 34, fundamental number, FN = 64), Eumops auripendulus (2n = 42, FN = 62), Molossus rufus (2n = 48, FN = 64), Molossops temminckii (2n = 48, FN = 64), and Nyctinomops laticaudatus (2n = 48, FN = 64), and Phyllostomidae species, Phyllostomus discolor (2n = 32, FN = 60), have karyotypes with different chromosome and fundamental numbers, different localization of constitutive heterochromatin, and different numbers and location of nucleolar organizer regions (NORs). Fluorescence in situ hybridization with a human probe of the telomeric sequence (TTAGGG)(n) produced fluorescent signals in telomeric regions of the six bat species' chromosomes; in E. auripendulus, pericentromeric signals were also observed in the acrocentric and subtelocentric chromosomes. A relationship between telomeric sequences and NORs, and between telomeric sequences and constitutive heterochromatin was detected in chromosomes bearing NORs in C. abrasus, M. temminckii, N. laticaudatus, and P. discolor. No interstitial signal was observed in the meta- or submetacentric chromosomes of these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- K C Faria
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade do Estado de Mato Grosso, Nova Xavantina, MG, Brasil
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Beguelini MR, Moreira PR, Faria KC, Marchesin SR, Morielle-Versute E. Morphological characterization of the testicular cells and seminiferous epithelium cycle in six species of Neotropical bats. J Morphol 2009; 270:943-53. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.10731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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