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Vogt PH, Rauschendorf MA, Zimmer J, Drummer C, Behr R. AZFa Y gene, DDX3Y, evolved novel testis transcript variants in primates with proximal 3´UTR polyadenylation for germ cell specific translation. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8954. [PMID: 35624115 PMCID: PMC9142519 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12474-0] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Translational control is a major level of gene expression regulation in the male germ line. DDX3Y located in the AZFa region of the human Y chromosome encodes a conserved RNA helicase important for translational control at the G1-S phase of the cell cycle. In human, DDX3Y protein is expressed only in premeiotic male germ cells. In primates, DDX3Y evolved a second promoter producing novel testis-specific transcripts. Here, we show primate species-specific use of alternative polyadenylation (APA) sites for these testis-specific DDX3Y transcript variants. They have evolved subsequently in the 3´UTRs of the primates´ DDX3Y transcripts. Whereas a distal APA site (PAS4) is still used for polyadenylation of most DDX3Y testis transcripts in Callithrix jacchus; two proximal APAs (PAS1; PAS2) are used predominantly in Macaca mulatta, in Pan trogloydates and in human. This shift corresponds with a significant increase of DDX3Y protein expression in the macaque testis tissue. In chimpanzee and human, shift to predominant use of the most proximal APA site (PAS1) is associated with translation of these DDX3Y transcripts in only premeiotic male germ cells. We therefore assume evolution of a positive selection process for functional DDX3Y testis transcripts in these primates which increase their stability and translation efficiency to promote its cell cycle balancing function in the human male germ line.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. H. Vogt
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, University Women Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 440, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - M-A. Rauschendorf
- Molecular Health GmbH, Kurfürsten-Anlage 21, D-69115 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - J. Zimmer
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, University Women Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 440, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - C. Drummer
- grid.418215.b0000 0000 8502 7018Platform Degenerative Diseases, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Kellnerweg 4, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - R. Behr
- grid.418215.b0000 0000 8502 7018Platform Degenerative Diseases, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Kellnerweg 4, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany
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Vogt PH, Bender U, Deibel B, Kiesewetter F, Zimmer J, Strowitzki T. Human AZFb deletions cause distinct testicular pathologies depending on their extensions in Yq11 and the Y haplogroup: new cases and review of literature. Cell Biosci 2021; 11:60. [PMID: 33766143 PMCID: PMC7995748 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-021-00551-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Genomic AZFb deletions in Yq11 coined “classical” (i.e. length of Y DNA deletion: 6.23 Mb) are associated with meiotic arrest (MA) of patient spermatogenesis, i.e., absence of any postmeiotic germ cells. These AZFb deletions are caused by non-allelic homologous recombination (NAHR) events between identical sequence blocks located in the proximal arm of the P5 palindrome and within P1.2, a 92 kb long sequence block located in the P1 palindrome structure of AZFc in Yq11. This large genomic Y region includes deletion of 6 protein encoding Y genes, EIFA1Y, HSFY, PRY, RBMY1, RPS4Y, SMCY. Additionally, one copy of CDY2 and XKRY located in the proximal P5 palindrome and one copy of BPY1, two copies of DAZ located in the P2 palindrome, and one copy of CDY1 located proximal to P1.2 are included within this AZFb microdeletion. It overlaps thus distally along 2.3 Mb with the proximal part of the genomic AZFc deletion. However, AZFb deletions have been also reported with distinct break sites in the proximal and/or distal AZFb breakpoint intervals on the Y chromosome of infertile men. These so called “non-classical” AZFb deletions are associated with variable testicular pathologies, including meiotic arrest, cryptozoospermia, severe oligozoospermia, or oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT syndrome), respectively. This raised the question whether there are any specific length(s) of the AZFb deletion interval along Yq11 required to cause meiotic arrest of the patient’s spermatogenesis, respectively, whether there is any single AZFb Y gene deletion also able to cause this “classical” AZFb testicular pathology? Review of the literature and more cases with “classical” and “non-classical” AZFb deletions analysed in our lab since the last 20 years suggests that the composition of the genomic Y sequence in AZFb is variable in men with distinct Y haplogroups especially in the distal AZFb region overlapping with the proximal AZFc deletion interval and that its extension can be “polymorphic” in the P3 palindrome. That means this AZFb subinterval can be rearranged or deleted also on the Y chromosome of fertile men. Any AZFb deletion observed in infertile men with azoospermia should therefore be confirmed as “de novo” mutation event, i.e., not present on the Y chromosome of the patient’s father or fertile brother before it is considered as causative agent for man’s infertility. Moreover, its molecular length in Yq11 should be comparable to that of the “classical” AZFb deletion, before meiotic arrest is prognosed as the patient’s testicular pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 440, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - U Bender
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 440, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - B Deibel
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 440, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - F Kiesewetter
- Department of Andrology, University Clinic of Dermatology, Erlangen, Germany
| | - J Zimmer
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 440, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - T Strowitzki
- Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Nguyen XP, Messmer B, Hinderhofer K, Strowitzki T, Vogt PH, Rehnitz J. RAN-Translation in fragile X associated Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (FXPOI) FMRpolyG as predictive tool? Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2020. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1717685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- XP Nguyen
- Sektion für Reproduktionsgenetik Gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Fertilitätsstörungen Universitäts-Frauenklinik Heidelberg
| | - B Messmer
- Sektion für Reproduktionsgenetik Gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Fertilitätsstörungen Universitäts-Frauenklinik Heidelberg
| | - K Hinderhofer
- Abteilung Humangenetik, Universität Heidelberg, Labor für Molekulargenetische Diagnostik
| | - T Strowitzki
- Gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Fertilitätsstörungen, Universitäts-Frauenklinik Heidelberg
| | - PH Vogt
- Sektion für Reproduktionsgenetik Gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Fertilitätsstörungen Universitäts-Frauenklinik Heidelberg
| | - J Rehnitz
- Sektion für Reproduktionsgenetik Gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Fertilitätsstörungen Universitäts-Frauenklinik Heidelberg
- Gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Fertilitätsstörungen, Universitäts-Frauenklinik Heidelberg
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Rehnitz J, Capp E, Messmer B, Germeyer A, Dietrich JE, Strowitzki T, Vogt PH. FMR1 und mTOR/AKT Signalweg in humanen Granulosazellen: Funktion und Interaktion in der Follikulogenese. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2020. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1717209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J Rehnitz
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Abteilung für Gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Fertilitätsstörungen – Sektion Reproduktionsgenetik
| | - E Capp
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medicine School
| | - B Messmer
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Abteilung für Gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Fertilitätsstörungen – Sektion Reproduktionsgenetik
| | - A Germeyer
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Abteilung für Gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Fertilitätsstörungen
| | - JE Dietrich
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Abteilung für Gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Fertilitätsstörungen
| | - T Strowitzki
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Abteilung für Gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Fertilitätsstörungen
| | - PH Vogt
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Abteilung für Gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Fertilitätsstörungen – Sektion Reproduktionsgenetik
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Vogt PH, Besikoglu B, Bettendorf M, Frank-Herrmann P, Zimmer J, Bender U, Knauer-Fischer S, Choukair D, Sinn P, Lau YFC, Heidemann PH, Strowitzki T. Gonadoblastoma Y locus genes expressed in germ cells of individuals with dysgenetic gonads and a Y chromosome in their karyotypes include DDX3Y and TSPY. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:770-779. [PMID: 30753444 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [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: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Which Y genes mapped to the 'Gonadoblastoma Y (GBY)' locus on human Y chromosome are expressed in germ cells of individuals with some Differences of Sexual Development (DSD) and a Y chromosome in their karyotype (DSD-XY groups)? SUMMARY ANSWER The GBY candidate genes DDX3Y and TSPY are expressed in the germ cells of DSD-XY patients from distinct etiologies: patients with mixed gonadal dysgenesis (MGD) and sex chromosome mosaics (45,X0/46,XY; 46,XX/46,XY); patients with complete androgen insensitivity (CAIS), patients with complete gonadal dysgenesis (CGD; e.g. Swyer syndrome). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY A GBY locus was proposed to be present on the human Y chromosome because only DSD patients with a Y chromosome in their karyotype have a high-although variable-risk (up to 55%) for germ cell tumour development. GBY was mapped to the proximal part of the short and long Y arm. TSPY located in the proximal part of the short Y arm (Yp11.1) was found to be a strong GBY candidate gene. It is expressed in the germ cells of DSD-XY patients with distinct etiologies but also in foetal and pre-meiotic male spermatogonia. However, the GBY region extends to proximal Yq11 and therefore includes probably more than one candidate gene. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Protein expression of the putative GBY candidate gene in proximal Yq11, DDX3Y, is compared with that of TSPY in serial gonadal tissue sections of 40 DSD-XY individuals from the three DSD patient groups (MGD, Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome [CAIS], CGD) with and without displaying malignancy. Expression of OCT3/4 in the same tissue samples marks the rate of pluripotent germ cells. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHOD A total of 145 DSD individuals were analysed for the Y chromosome to select the DSD-XY subgroup. PCR multiplex assays with Y gene specific marker set score for putative microdeletions in GBY Locus. Immunohistochemical experiments with specific antisera mark expression of the GBY candidate proteins, DDX3Y, TSPY, in serial sections of the gonadal tissue samples; OCT3/4 expression analyses in parallel reveal the pluripotent germ cell fraction. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Similar DDX3Y and TSPY protein expression patterns were found in the germ cells of DSD-XY patients from each subgroup, independent of age. In CAIS patients OCT3/4 expression was often found only in a fraction of these germ cells. This suggest that GBY candidate proteins are also expressed in the non-malignant germ cells of DSD-XY individuals like in male spermatogonia. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Variation of the expression profiles of GBY candidate genes in the germ cells of some DSD-XY individuals suggests distinct transcriptional and translational control mechanisms which are functioning during expression of these Y genes in the DSD-XY germ cells. Their proposed GBY tumour susceptibility function to transform these germ cells to pre-malignant GB/Germ Cell Neoplasia in Situ (GB/GCNIS) cells seems therefore to be limited and depending on their state of pluripotency. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These experimental findings are of general importance for each individual identified in the clinic with DSD and a Y chromosome in the karyotype. To judge their risk of germ cell tumour development, OCT3/4 expression analyses on their gonadal tissue section is mandatory to reveal the fraction of germ cells still being pluripotent. Comparative expression analysis of the GBY candidate genes can be helpful to reveal the fraction of germ cells with genetically still activated Y chromosomes contributing to further development of malignancy if at high expression level. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research project was supported by a grant (01GM0627) from the BMBF (Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung), Germany to P.H.V. and B.B. The authors have no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - B Besikoglu
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Novum, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Akazienallee 8, Essen, Germany
| | - M Bettendorf
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - P Frank-Herrmann
- Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - J Zimmer
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - U Bender
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - S Knauer-Fischer
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - D Choukair
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - P Sinn
- Division of Gynaecopathology, Department of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Y-F C Lau
- Division of Cell & Developmental Genetics, Department of Medicine, VAMC 111C5, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - P H Heidemann
- Children Hospital Augsburg I, Academic Hospital of University of Munich, Stenglinstraβe 2, Augsburg, Germany
| | - T Strowitzki
- Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Rehnitz J, Alcoba DD, Brum IS, Strowitzki T, Vogt PH. FMR1-Expression und mTOR/AKT-Signalkaskade – zwei potentielle Teamplayer der Follikulogenesekontrolle in humanen Granulosazellen. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2016. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1593251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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Wedi E, Müller S, Neusser M, Vogt PH, Tkachenko OY, Zimmer J, Smeets D, Michelmann HW, Nayudu PL. Detection of cross-sex chimerism in the common marmoset monkey (Callithrix jacchus) in interphase cells using fluorescence in situ hybridisation probes specific for the marmoset X and Y chromosomes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2016; 29:RD15321. [PMID: 26876539 DOI: 10.1071/rd15321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 12/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimerism associated with placental sharing in marmosets has been traditionally analysed using conventional chromosome staining on metaphase spreads or polymerase chain reaction. However, the former technique requires the presence of proliferating cells, whereas the latter may be associated with possible blood cell contamination. Therefore, we aimed to develop a single-cell analysis technique for sexing marmoset cells. We applied fluorescent in situ hybridisation (FISH) to cell nuclei using differentially labelled X and Y chromosome-specific probes. Herein we present the validation of this method in metaphase cells from a marmoset lymphoblastoid cell line, as well as application of the method for evaluation of cross-sex chimerism in interphase blood lymphocytes and haematopoietic bone marrow cells from marmosets of same- and mixed-sex litters. The results show conclusively that haematopoietic cells of bone marrow and leucocytes from blood are cross-sex chimeric when the litter is mixed sex. In addition, single samples of liver and spleen cell suspensions from one individual were tested. Cross-sex chimerism was observed in the spleen but not in liver cells. We conclude that FISH is the method of choice to identify cross-sex chimerism, especially when combined with morphological identification of nuclei of different cell types, which will allow a targeted tissue-specific analysis.
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Knauer-Fischer S, Besikoglu B, Inta I, Kneppo C, Vogt PH, Bettendorf M. Analyses of Gonadoblastoma Y (GBY)-locus and of Y centromere in Turner syndrome patients. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 2014; 123:61-5. [PMID: 25314650 DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1387734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mosaicism with cytogenetically visible Y chromosome is found in 5-6% of Turner Syndrome (TS) patients. Additionally, occult Y-chromosome derived material is increasingly found in patients with monosomy X when using more sensitive molecular techniques. These TS patients are at risk of developing gonadoblastomas when the Y genes presumed to be involved in gonadoblastoma development (Gonadoblastoma-Y-locus; GBY) are present. AIM To find occult Y-chromosome material in TS patients and to correlate the patient's phenotype to Y-chromosome material. METHODS We studied 60 TS-patients for presence of the Y chromosome with focus on the Gonadoblastoma Y-locus and its extension in Yp and Yq using sensitive Y centromere and Y gene deletion PCR assays. In addition, we evaluated their individual clinical and auxological characteristics. RESULTS We identified presence of the GBY-locus in 7 patients (11.7%) including 4 patients without evidence for a Y chromosome in their preceding standard karyotype analyses. Clinical and auxological characteristics were similar in GBY-positive and GBY-negative patients. CONCLUSIONS Presence of the GBY locus in Turner patients with no indication of the Y chromosome in standard cytogenetic chromosome analysis can be revealed by sensitive molecular PCR assays screening for presence of the Y centromere and the GBY-candidate-genes in proximal Yp11 and Yq11, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Knauer-Fischer
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology, Children's Hospital, University of Heidelberg
| | - B Besikoglu
- Division of Reproductive Genetics, Women's Hospital, University of Heidelberg
| | - I Inta
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology, Children's Hospital, University of Heidelberg
| | - C Kneppo
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology, Children's Hospital, University of Heidelberg
| | - P H Vogt
- Division of Reproductive Genetics, Women's Hospital, University of Heidelberg
| | - M Bettendorf
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology, Children's Hospital, University of Heidelberg
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Katzorke N, Vogt PH, Strowitzki T. Diagnostische Bedeutung des Anti-Müller-Hormons bei Frauen mit Premature Ovarian Failure Syndrom. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2014. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1387969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Rehnitz J, Messmer B, Dietrich J, Alcoba D, Strowitzki T, Vogt PH. FMR1 Expression in Granulosazellen – ein neuer Biomarker der ovariellen Reserve? Eine Machbarkeitsstudie. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2014. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1388572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Zink AM, Wohlleber E, Engels H, Rødningen OK, Ravn K, Heilmann S, Rehnitz J, Katzorke N, Kraus C, Blichfeldt S, Hoffmann P, Reutter H, Brockschmidt FF, Kreiß-Nachtsheim M, Vogt PH, Prescott TE, Tümer Z, Lee JA. Microdeletions including FMR1 in three female patients with intellectual disability - further delineation of the phenotype and expression studies. Mol Syndromol 2014; 5:65-75. [PMID: 24715853 DOI: 10.1159/000357962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is one of the most common causes of intellectual disability/developmental delay (ID/DD), especially in males. It is caused most often by CGG trinucleotide repeat expansions, and less frequently by point mutations and partial or full deletions of the FMR1 gene. The wide clinical spectrum of affected females partly depends on their X-inactivation status. Only few female ID/DD patients with microdeletions including FMR1 have been reported. We describe 3 female patients with 3.5-, 4.2- and 9.2-Mb de novo microdeletions in Xq27.3-q28 containing FMR1. X-inactivation was random in all patients, yet they presented with ID/DD as well as speech delay, macrocephaly and other features attributable to FXS. No signs of autism were present. Here, we further delineate the clinical spectrum of female patients with microdeletions. FMR1 expression studies gave no evidence for an absolute threshold below which signs of FXS present. Since FMR1 expression is known to be highly variable between unrelated females, and since FMR1 mRNA levels have been suggested to be more similar among family members, we further explored the possibility of an intrafamilial effect. Interestingly, FMR1 mRNA levels in all 3 patients were significantly lower than in their respective mothers, which was shown to be specific for patients with microdeletions containing FMR1.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Zink
- Institute of Human Genetics, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany
| | - E Wohlleber
- Institute of Human Genetics, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany
| | - H Engels
- Institute of Human Genetics, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany
| | - O K Rødningen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - K Ravn
- Applied Human Molecular Genetics, Kennedy Center, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - S Heilmann
- Institute of Human Genetics, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany ; Department of Genomics, Life & Brain Center, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany
| | - J Rehnitz
- Molecular Genetics and Infertility Unit, Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - N Katzorke
- Molecular Genetics and Infertility Unit, Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - C Kraus
- Institute of Human Genetics, Friedrich-Alexander-University, Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany
| | - S Blichfeldt
- Pediatric Department L55, Glostrup University Hospital, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - P Hoffmann
- Institute of Human Genetics, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany ; Department of Genomics, Life & Brain Center, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany ; Medical Genetics, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - H Reutter
- Institute of Human Genetics, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany ; Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany
| | - F F Brockschmidt
- Institute of Human Genetics, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany ; Department of Genomics, Life & Brain Center, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany
| | - M Kreiß-Nachtsheim
- Institute of Human Genetics, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany
| | - P H Vogt
- Molecular Genetics and Infertility Unit, Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - T E Prescott
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Z Tümer
- Applied Human Molecular Genetics, Kennedy Center, Glostrup, Denmark ; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - J A Lee
- Institute of Human Genetics, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany ; Department of Genomics, Life & Brain Center, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany ; Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenwood, S.C., USA
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Lynch C, Tee N, Rouse H, Gordon A, Sati L, Zeiss C, Soygur B, Bassorgun I, Goksu E, Demir R, McGrath J, Groendahl ML, Thuesen L, Andersen AN, Loft A, Smitz J, Adriaenssens T, Vikesa J, Borup R, Mersy E, Kisters N, Macville MVE, Engelen JJM, Consortium SENN, Menheere PPCA, Geraedts JP, Coumans ABC, Frints SGM, Aledani T, Assou S, Traver S, Ait-ahmed O, Dechaud H, Hamamah S, Mizutani E, Suzumori N, Sugiyama C, Hattori Y, Sato T, Ando H, Ozaki Y, Sugiura-Ogasawara M, Wissing M, Kristensen SG, Andersen CY, Mikkelsen AL, Hoest T, Borup R, Groendahl ML, Velthut-Meikas A, Simm J, Metsis M, Salumets A, Palini S, Galluzzi L, De Stefani S, Primiterra M, Wells D, Magnani M, Bulletti C, Vogt PH, Frank-Herrmann P, Bender U, Strowitzki T, Besikoglu B, Heidemann P, Wunsch L, Bettendorf M, Jelinkova L, Vilimova S, Kosarova M, Sebek P, Volemanova E, Kruzelova M, Civisova J, Svobodova L, Sobotka V, Mardesic T, van de Werken C, Santos MA, Eleveld C, Laven JSE, Baart EB, Pylyp LY, Spinenko LA, Zukin VD, Perez-Sanz J, Matorras R, Arluzea J, Bilbao J, Gonzalez-Santiago N, Yeh N, Koff A, Barlas A, Romin Y, Manova-Todorova K, Hoz CDL, Mauri AL, Nascimento AM, Vagnini LD, Petersen CG, Ricci J, Massaro FC, Cavagna M, Pontes A, Oliveira JBA, Baruffi RLR, Franco JG, Wu EX, Ma S, Parriego M, Sole M, Boada M, Coroleu B, Veiga A, Kakourou G, Poulou M, Vrettou C, Destouni A, Traeger-Synodinos J, Kanavakis E, Yatsenko AN, Georgiadis AP, McGuire MM, Zorrilla M, Bunce KD, Peters D, Rajkovic A, Olszewska M, Kurpisz M, Gilbertson AZA, Ottolini CS, Summers MC, Sage K, Handyside AH, Thornhill AR, Griffin DK, Chung MK, Kim JW, Lee JH, Jeong HJ, Kim MH, Ryu MJ, Park SJ, Kang HY, Lee HS, Zimmermann B, Banjevic M, Hill M, Lacroute P, Dodd M, Sigurjonsson S, Lau P, Prosen D, Chopra N, Ryan A, Hall M, McAdoo S, Demko Z, Levy B, Rabinowitz M, Vereczeky A, Kosa ZS, Savay S, Csenki M, Nanassy L, Dudas B, Domotor ZS, Debreceni D, Rossi A, Alegretti JR, Cuzzi J, Bonavita M, Tanada M, Matunaga P, Fettback P, Rosa MB, Maia V, Hassun P, Motta ELA, Piccolomini M, Gomes C, Barros B, Nicoliello M, Matunaga P, Criscuolo T, Bonavita M, Alegretti JR, Miyadahira E, Cuzzi J, Hassun P, Motta ELA, Montjean D, Benkhalifa M, Berthaut I, Griveau JF, Morcel K, Bashamboo A, McElreavey K, Ravel C, Rubio C, Rodrigo L, Mateu E, Mercader A, Peinado V, Buendia P, Milan M, Delgado A, Al-Asmar N, Escrich L, Campos-Galindo I, Garcia-Herrero S, Poo ME, Mir P, Simon C, Reyes-Engel A, Cortes-Rodriguez M, Lendinez A, Perez-Nevot B, Palomares AR, Galdon MR, Ruberti A, Minasi MG, Biricik A, Colasante A, Zavaglia D, Iammarrone E, Fiorentino F, Greco E, Demir N, Ozturk S, Sozen B, Morales R, Lledo B, Ortiz JA, Ten J, Llacer J, Bernabeu R, Nagayoshi M, Tanaka A, Tanaka I, Kusunoki H, Watanabe S, Temel SG, Beyazyurek C, Ekmekci GC, Aybar F, Cinar C, Kahraman S, Nordqvist S, Karehed K, Akerud H, Ottolini CS, Griffin DK, Thornhill AR, Handyside AH, Gultomruk M, Tulay P, Findikli N, Yagmur E, Karlikaya G, Ulug U, Bahceci M, Bargallo MF, Arevalo MR, Salat MM, Barbat IV, Lopez JT, Algam ME, Boluda AB, de Oya GC, Tolmacheva EN, Kashevarova AA, Skryabin NA, Lebedev IN, Semaco E, Belo A, Riboldi M, Cuzzi J, Barros B, Luz L, Criscuolo T, Nobrega N, Matunaga P, Mazetto R, Alegretti JA, Bibancos M, Hassun P, Motta ELA, Serafini P, Neupane J, Vandewoestyne M, Heindryckx B, Deroo T, Lu Y, Ghimire S, Lierman S, Qian C, Deforce D, De Sutter P, Rodrigo L, Rubio C, Mateu E, Peinado V, Milan M, Viloria T, Al-Asmar N, Mercader A, Buendia P, Delgado A, Escrich L, Martinez-Jabaloyas JM, Simon C, Gil-Salom M, Capalbo A, Treff N, Cimadomo D, Tao X, Ferry K, Ubaldi FM, Rienzi L, Scott RT, Katzorke N, Strowitzki T, Vogt HP, Hehr A, Gassner C, Paulmann B, Kowalzyk Z, Klatt M, Krauss S, Seifert D, Seifert B, Hehr U, Minasi MG, Ruberti A, Biricik A, Lobascio M, Zavaglia D, Varricchio MT, Fiorentino F, Greco E, Rubino P, Bono S, Cotarelo RP, Spizzichino L, Biricik A, Colicchia A, Giannini P, Fiorentino F, Suhorutshenko M, Rosenstein-Tamm K, Simm J, Salumets A, Metsis M. Reproductive (epi)genetics. Hum Reprod 2013. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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14
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Gueler B, Sonne SB, Zimmer J, Hilscher B, Hilscher W, Græm N, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Vogt PH. AZFa protein DDX3Y is differentially expressed in human male germ cells during development and in testicular tumours: new evidence for phenotypic plasticity of germ cells. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:1547-55. [PMID: 22466863 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND DDX3Y (DBY), located within AZoospermia Factor a (AZFa) region of the human Y chromosome (Yq11), encodes a conserved DEAD-box RNA helicase expressed only in germ cells and with a putative function at G1-S phase of the cell cycle. Deletion of AZFa results most often in germ cell aplasia, i.e. Sertoli-cell-only syndrome. To investigate the function of DDX3Y during human spermatogenesis, we examined its expression during development and maturation of the testis and in several types of testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs), including the pre-invasive carcinoma in situ (CIS) precursor cells which are believed to originate from fetal gonocytes. METHODS DDX3Y protein expression was analysed during development in different tissues by western blotting. The localization of DDX3Y in normal fetal and prepubertal testis tissue of different ages as well as in a series of distinct TGCT tissue samples (CIS, classical seminoma, spermatocytic seminoma, teratoma and embryonal carcinoma) was performed by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Germ cell-specific expression of DDX3Y protein was revealed in fetal prospermatogonia but not in gonocytes and not before the 17th gestational week. After birth, DDX3Y was expressed at first only in the nuclei of Ap spermatogonia, then also in the cytoplasm similarly to that seen after puberty. In CIS cells, DDX3Y was highly expressed and located predominantly in the nuclei. In invasive TGCT, significant DDX3Y expression was found in seminomas of the classical and spermatocytic type, but not in somatically differentiated non-seminomas, consistent with its germ-cell specific function. CONCLUSIONS The fetal germ cell DDX3Y expression suggests a role in early spermatogonial proliferation and implies that, in men with AZFa deletion, germ cell depletion may begin prenatally. The strong expression of DDX3Y in CIS cells, but not in gonocytes, indicates phenotypic plasticity of CIS cells and suggests partial maturation to spermatogonia, likely due to their postpubertal microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Gueler
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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15
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Abstract
The human DEAD-box Y (DBY) RNA helicase (aka DDX3Y) gene is thought to be the major azoospermia factor a (AZFa) gene in proximal Yq11. Men with its deletion display no somatic pathologies, but suffer from complete absence of germ cells. Accordingly, DDX3Y protein is expressed only in the germline in spermatogonia, although the transcripts were found in many tissues. Here, we show the complex transcriptional control of a testis-specific DDX3Y transcript class with initiation at different sites upstream of the gene’s open reading frame (5′Untranslated Region; UTR) and with polyadenylation in their proximal 3′UTR. The most distal transcriptional start site (TSS; ∼1 kb upstream) was mapped in MSY2, a Y-specific minisatellite. As this testis-specific 5′UTR was subsequently processed by three alternative splicing events, it has been tentatively designated ‘exon-T’(estis). The MSY2 sequence unit was also found upstream of the mouse Ddx3y gene. However, only after its tandem amplification on the Y chromosome of Platyrrhini (new world monkeys) and Catarrhini (old world monkeys) did MSY2 become part of a novel distal promoter for DDX3Y expression in testis tissue and provides a second transcriptional start site (T-TSS-II) in Catarrhini. We therefore suggest that the development of a novel distal DDX3Y promoter in primates, which is activated only in testis tissue, is probably part of the gene’s germline translation control.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-A Rauschendorf
- Unit of Molecular Genetics & Infertility, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology & Reproductive Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Schuettler J, Peng Z, Zimmer J, Sinn P, von Hagens C, Strowitzki T, Vogt PH. Variable expression of the Fragile X Mental Retardation 1 (FMR1) gene in patients with premature ovarian failure syndrome is not dependent on number of (CGG)n triplets in exon 1. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:1241-51. [PMID: 21335413 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased expression of the Fragile X Mental Retardation 1 (FMR1) gene in blood cells has been claimed to be associated with variable (CGG)(n) triplet numbers in the 5' untranslated region of this gene. Increased CGG triplet numbers, including that of the so-called premutation range (n= 55-200), were shown to have a risk of <26% to impair ovarian reserve leading to primary ovarian insufficiency and premature ovarian failure (POF). METHODS DNA and RNA samples were isolated from 74 patients with idiopathic POF to evaluate quantitatively the expression of FMR1 in leukocytes and CGG triplet number on FMR1 gene alleles. mRNA levels were normalized and compared with those of control women. Expression of the encoded protein (FMRP) was analysed by immunohistochemistry on ovarian biopsy tissue sections. RESULTS A large variance of the FMR1 transcript level was found in the leukocyte RNA samples, but only in patients with POF, and this variability did not correlate to variance of CGG triplet numbers found on both FMR1 alleles (19 < n > 90). During normal folliculogenesis, FMRP is predominantly expressed in granulosa cells. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that FMR1 expression during human folliculogenesis is probably a quantitative trait. Proper function of FMRP in granulosa cells seems to depend on an optimal transcript level. All women with CGG triplet numbers outside the range associated with normal folliculogenesis (26 < n > 34) are therefore expected to have a relaxed FMR1 transcription control. FMR1 transcript levels in leukocytes might therefore be diagnostic for altered FMRP levels in granulosa cells, which will affect the process of folliculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Schuettler
- Department of Gynecology Endocrinology, University Women Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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Chan Wong E, Hatakeyama C, P. Robinson W, Ma S, Vogt PH, Schuettler J, Peng Z, Zimmer J, von Hagens C, Sinn P, Strowitzki T, Wu E, Hatakeyama C, Ma S, Koustas G, Sjoblom C. SELECTED ORAL COMMUNICATION SESSION, SESSION 51: (EPI) GENETICS, Tuesday 5 July 2011 17:00 - 18:00. Hum Reprod 2011. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/26.s1.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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18
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Acar-Perk B, Weimer J, Koch K, Salmassi A, Arnold N, Mettler L, Schmutzler AG, Ottolini CS, Griffin DK, Handyside AH, Summers MC, Thornhill AR, Montjean D, Benkhalifa M, Cohen-Bacrie P, Siffroi JP, Mandelbaum J, Berthaut I, Bashamboo A, Ravel C, McElreavey K, Ao A, Zhang XY, Yilmaz A, Chung JT, Demirtas E, Son WY, Dahan M, Buckett W, Holzer H, Tan SL, Perheentupa A, Vierula M, Jorgensen N, Skakkebaek NE, Chantot-Bastaraud S, McElreavey K, Toppari J, Muzii L, Magli MC, Gioia L, Mattioli M, Ferraretti AP, Gianaroli L, Koscinski I, Elinati E, Fossard C, Kuentz P, Kilani Z, Demirol A, Gurgan T, Schmitt F, Velez de la Calle J, Iqbal N, Louanjli N, Pasquier M, Carre-Pigeon F, Muller J, Barratt C, Viville S, Magli C, Grugnetti C, Castelletti E, Paviglianiti B, Gianaroli L, Pepas L, Braude P, Grace J, Bolton V, Khalaf Y, El-Toukhy T, Galeraud-Denis I, Bouraima H, Sibert L, Rives N, Carreau S, Janse F, de With LM, Fauser BCJM, Lambalk CB, Laven JSE, Goverde AJ, Giltay JC, De Leo V, Governini L, Quagliariello A, Margollicci MA, Piomboni P, Luddi A, Miyamura H, Nishizawa H, Ota S, Suzuki M, Inagaki A, Egusa H, Nishiyama S, Kato T, Nakanishi I, Fujita T, Imayoshi Y, Markoff A, Yanagihara I, Udagawa Y, Kurahashi H, Alvaro Mercadal B, Imbert R, Demeestere I, De Leener A, Englert Y, Costagliola S, Delbaere A, Velilla E, Colomar A, Toro E, Chamosa S, Alvarez J, Lopez-Teijon M, Fernandez S, Hosoda Y, Hasegawa A, Morimoto N, Wakimoto Y, Ito Y, Komori S, Sati L, Zeiss C, Demir R, McGrath J, Ku SY, Kim YJ, Kim YY, Kim HJ, Park KE, Kim SH, Choi YM, Moon SY, Minor A, Chow V, Ma S, Martinez Mendez E, Gaytan M, Linan A, Pacheco A, San Celestino M, Nogales C, Ariza M, Cernuda D, Bronet F, Lendinez Ramirez AM, Palomares AR, Perez-Nevot B, Urraca V, Ruiz Martin A, Reche A, Ruiz Galdon M, Reyes-Engel A, Treff NR, Tao X, Taylor D, Levy B, Ferry KM, Scott Jr. RT, Vasan S, Acharya KK, Vasan B, Yalaburgi R, Ganesan KK, Darshan SC, Neelima CH, Deepa P, Akhilesh B, Sravanthi D, Sreelakshmi KS, Deepti H, van Doorninck JH, Eleveld C, van der Hoeven M, Birnie E, Steegers EAP, Galjaard RJ, Laven JSE, van den Berg IM, Fiorentino F, Spizzichino L, Bono S, Biricik A, Kokkali G, Rienzi L, Ubaldi FM, Iammarrone E, Gordon A, Pantos K, Oitmaa E, Tammiste A, Suvi S, Punab M, Remm M, Metspalu A, Salumets A, Rodrigo L, Mir P, Cervero A, Mateu E, Mercader A, Vidal C, Giles J, Remohi J, Pellicer A, Martin J, Rubio C, Mozdarani H, Moghbeli Nejad S, Behmanesh M, Alleyasin A, Ghedir H, Ibala-Romdhane S, Mamai O, Brahem S, Elghezal H, Ajina M, Gribaa M, Saad A, Mateu E, Rodrigo L, Martinez MC, Mercader A, Peinado V, Milan M, Al-Asmar N, Pellicer A, Remohi J, Rubio C, Mercader A, Buendia P, Delgado A, Escrich L, Amorocho B, Simon C, Remohi J, Pellicer A, Martin J, Rubio C, Petrussa L, Van de Velde H, De Munck N, De Rycke M, Altmae S, Martinez-Conejero JA, Esteban FJ, Ruiz-Alonso M, Stavreus-Evers A, Horcajadas JA, Salumets A, Bug B, Raabe-Meyer G, Bender U, Zimmer J, Schulze B, Vogt PH, Laisk T, Peters M, Salumets A, Grabar V, Feskov A, Zhilkova E, Sugawara N, Maeda M, Seki T, Manome T, Nagai R, Araki Y, Georgiou I, Lazaros L, Xita N, Chatzikyriakidou A, Kaponis A, Grigoriadis N, Hatzi E, Grigoriadis I, Sofikitis N, Zikopoulos K, Gunn M, Brezina PR, Benner A, Du L, Kearns WG, Shen X, Zhou C, Xu Y, Zhong Y, Zeng Y, Zhuang G, Benner A, Brezina PR, Gunn MC, Du L, Richter K, Kearns WG, Andreeva P, Dimitrov I, Konovalova M, Kyurkchiev S, Shterev A, Daser A, Day E, Turley H, Immesberger A, Haaf T, Hahn T, Dear PH, Schorsch M, Don J, Golan N, Eldar T, Yaverboim R. POSTER VIEWING SESSION - REPRODUCTIVE (EPI) GENETICS. Hum Reprod 2011. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/26.s1.89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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19
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Abstract
The human DEAD-box Y (DBY) RNA helicase (aka DDX3Y) gene is thought to be the major azoospermia factor a (AZFa) gene in proximal Yq11. Although it is transcribed in many tissues, the protein is expressed only in spermatogonia. In this study, we demonstrate that this translational control mechanism is probably germ cell-specific because of its association with expression of a distinct class of DDX3Y testis transcripts present only in pre- and post-meiotic male germ cells. They are initiated from a second distal DDX3Y promoter domain at two distinct start sites in the gene's 5' untranslated region (UTR) exon-T sequence. With the aid of an EGFP-3xFLAG reporter cassette cloned downstream of DDX3Y minigenes containing exons 1-4 and two different exon-T extensions, we discovered that DDX3Y translation is influenced by the presence of several ATG triplets located in exon-T, thus upstream of the main translational ATG start codon in exon 1. Strong translational repression of the DDX3Y minigene transcripts was observed when they contained the longest exon-T sequence with five upstream ATG triplets (uATGs). The potential formation of complex distinct stem-loop structures serve here as additional repressor element. Only minor translational attenuation was seen for the DDX3Y minigene transcripts when containing the shortest exon-T sequence, that is, starting at first transcriptional start site (coined 'T-TSS-I'). It was completely released after its single uATG was abolished by mutation. As we found DDX3Y transcripts with the longest exon-T sequence predominantly in spermatids, our results suggest that the amount of DDX3Y protein in pre-meiotic germ cells and its absence in post-meiotic germ cells are tightly controlled by the different extensions of exon-T in this germ cell-specific DDX3Y transcript class.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Jaroszynski
- Unit Molecular Genetics and Fertility Disorders, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, University Women Hospital, Heidelberg
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Abstract
The azoospermia factor (AZF) locus in Yq11 is now functionally subdivided in three distinct spermatogenesis loci: AZFa, AZFb and AZFc. After knowledge of the complete genomic Y sequence in Yq11, 14 Y genes encoding putatively functional proteins and expressed in human testis are found to be located in one of the three AZF intervals. Therefore, a major question for each infertility clinic performing molecular screening for AZF deletions has now raised concerning the functional contribution of the encoded AZF proteins to human spermatogenesis. Additionally, it has been shown that distinct chromatin regions in Yq11 overlapping with the genomic AZFb and AZFc intervals are probably involved in the pre-meiotic X and Y chromosome pairing process. An old hypothesis on the germ line function of AZF becomes therefore revitalized. It proposed a specific chromatin folding code in Yq11, which controls the condensation cycle of the Y chromosome in the male germ line. Thus, with the exception of AZF proteins functionally expressed during the pre-meiotic differentiation and proliferation of spermatogonia, the need for AZF proteins functionally expressed at meiosis or during the post-meiotic spermatid maturation process is difficult to assess before the identification of specific mutations in the corresponding AZF gene causing male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Molecular Genetics and Infertility Unit, Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Infertility, University Women Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Peng Z, Schüttler J, Janssen B, Steinbach P, Strowitzki T, Vogt PH. POF Syndrom und X Chromosomale Genexpression: die Expression des FMR1 Gen im POF1 Locus ist bei Patienten mit POF auffallend variabel. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2006. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-952279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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Fassnacht W, Mempel A, Strowitzki T, Vogt PH. Premature ovarian failure (POF) syndrome: towards the molecular clinical analysis of its genetic complexity. Curr Med Chem 2006; 13:1397-410. [PMID: 16719785 DOI: 10.2174/092986706776872943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The Premature Ovarian Failure (POF) syndrome is a very heterogeneous clinical disorder due probably to the complex genetic networks controlling human folliculogenesis. Clinical subgroups of POF patients whose aetiology of ovarian failure is based on the same genetic factors are therefore difficult to establish. Some experimental evidence suggests that these genes might be clustered on the female sex chromosome in the POF1 and POF2 loci. This review is aimed to present an overview of the actual structural changes of the X chromosome causing POF, and to present a number of X and autosomal female fertility genes which are probably key genes in human folliculogenesis and are therefore prominent POF candidate genes. Towards the molecular analysis of their functional contribution to the genetic aetiology of POF in the clinic, an interdisciplinary scheme for their diagnostic analysis is presented in a pilot study focussed on chromosome analyses and the expression analysis of some major POF candidate genes (DAZL, DBX, FOXL2, INHalpha, GDF9, USP9X) in the leukocytes of 101 POF patients. It starts with a comprehensive and significantly improved clinical diagnostic program for this large and heterogeneous patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Fassnacht
- Department of Gynecol. Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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Ditton HJ, Zimmer J, Kamp C, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Vogt PH. The AZFa gene DBY (DDX3Y) is widely transcribed but the protein is limited to the male germ cells by translation control. Hum Mol Genet 2004; 13:2333-41. [PMID: 15294876 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddh240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We explored the function of the human DEAD-box Y RNA helicase DBY (DDX3Y) gene located in the (AZFa) region on the human Y chromosome (Yq11.21). Deletion of this Y interval is known to be a major cause for the occurrence of a severe testicular pathology, the Sertoli-cell-only (SCO) syndrome. DBY has a structural homologue on the short arm of the X chromosome DBX (DDX3X) (Xp11.4). We found widespread transcription of both genes in each tissue analyzed, although predominantly in testis tissue. However, translation of DBY was detected only in the male germ line, whereas DBX protein was expressed in all tissues analyzed. In testis tissue sections, DBY protein was found predominantly in spermatogonia, whereas DBX protein was expressed after meiosis in spermatids. We conclude that although both RNA helicases are structurally very similar, they have diverged functionally to fulfill different roles in the RNA metabolism of human spermatogenesis, and that deletion of the DBY gene is the most likely cause of the severe testicular pathology observed in men with AZFa deletions.
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Affiliation(s)
- H J Ditton
- Section of Molecular Genetics and Infertility, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Fernandes S, Paracchini S, Meyer LH, Floridia G, Tyler-Smith C, Vogt PH. A large AZFc deletion removes DAZ3/DAZ4 and nearby genes from men in Y haplogroup N. Am J Hum Genet 2004; 74:180-7. [PMID: 14639527 PMCID: PMC1181906 DOI: 10.1086/381132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2003] [Accepted: 10/31/2003] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Deletion of the entire AZFc locus on the human Y chromosome leads to male infertility. The functional roles of the individual gene families mapped to AZFc are, however, still poorly understood, since the analysis of the region is complicated by its repeated structure. We have therefore used single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) across approximately 3 Mb of the AZFc sequence to identify 17 AZFc haplotypes and have examined them for deletion of individual AZFc gene copies. We found five individuals who lacked SNVs from a large segment of DNA containing the DAZ3/DAZ4 and BPY2.2/BPY2.3 gene doublets in distal AZFc. Southern blot analyses showed that the lack of these SNVs was due to deletion of the underlying DNA segment. Typing 118 binary Y markers showed that all five individuals belonged to Y haplogroup N, and 15 of 15 independently ascertained men in haplogroup N carried a similar deletion. Haplogroup N is known to be common and widespread in Europe and Asia, and there is no indication of reduced fertility in men with this Y chromosome. We therefore conclude that a common variant of the human Y chromosome lacks the DAZ3/DAZ4 and BPY2.2/BPY2.3 doublets in distal AZFc and thus that these genes cannot be required for male fertility; the gene content of the AZFc locus is likely to be genetically redundant. Furthermore, the observed deletions cannot be derived from the GenBank reference sequence by a single recombination event; an origin by homologous recombination from such a sequence organization must be preceded by an inversion event. These data confirm the expectation that the human Y chromosome sequence and gene complement may differ substantially between individuals and more variations are to be expected in different Y chromosomal haplogroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Fernandes
- Section of Molecular Genetics & Infertility, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology & Reproductive Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg; Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; and Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford
| | - S. Paracchini
- Section of Molecular Genetics & Infertility, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology & Reproductive Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg; Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; and Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford
| | - L. H. Meyer
- Section of Molecular Genetics & Infertility, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology & Reproductive Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg; Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; and Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford
| | - G. Floridia
- Section of Molecular Genetics & Infertility, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology & Reproductive Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg; Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; and Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford
| | - C. Tyler-Smith
- Section of Molecular Genetics & Infertility, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology & Reproductive Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg; Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; and Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford
| | - P. H. Vogt
- Section of Molecular Genetics & Infertility, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology & Reproductive Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg; Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; and Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford
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Ottesen AM, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Holm M, Andersen ILF, Vogt PH, Lundsteen C, Skakkebaek NE. Cytogenetic and molecular analysis of a family with three brothers afflicted with germ-cell cancer. Clin Genet 2003; 65:32-9. [PMID: 15032972 DOI: 10.1111/j..2004.00180.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A thorough cytogenetic investigation and an analysis of detailed questionnaires were performed in a family with three brothers afflicted with germ-cell tumors (GCTs), in an attempt to detect a congenital factor related either to a hereditary genetic background or an environmental/lifestyle influence. One brother had an intracranial tumor in the pineal region and the two others had testicular tumors. Peripheral blood was studied by traditional karyotyping, multicolor-FISH, high-resolution comparative genomic hybridization (HR-CGH), and molecular analysis of selected loci on sex chromosomes (Yq11 region, TSPY, and the androgen receptor gene); however, no abnormalities were detected. The HR-CGH analysis of microdissected histological components of the overt tumors and the adjacent carcinoma in situ demonstrated a pattern of genomic imbalances characteristic for sporadic GCTs, including gain of 12p. The questionnaire and interview revealed a history of different cancers in the extended family, and a possible in utero and/or infantile exposure of the three brothers with GCTs to compounds suspected of endocrine-disrupting properties. Although no genetic aberration was detected in this family, we suspect the presence of a recessive hereditary factor pre-disposing to cancer, which probably was manifested as GCTs in the three brothers because of an adverse effect of an environmental factor on the early germ-cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Ottesen
- Department of Growth & Reproduction, Julianne Marie Center, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Blegdamsveg, Denmark
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Fernandes S, Goncalves J, Hüllen K, Zeisler J, Rajpert De Meyts E, Skakkebaek NE, Habermann B, Krause W, Barros A, Vogt PH. Frequent DAZ1/DAZ2 deletions in men with severe oligozoospermia. Andrologia 2003. [DOI: 10.1046/j.1439-0272.2003.00531_7.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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27
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Fernandes S, Huellen K, Goncalves J, Dukal H, Zeisler J, Rajpert De Meyts E, Skakkebaek NE, Habermann B, Krause W, Sousa M, Barros A, Vogt PH. High frequency of DAZ1/DAZ2 gene deletions in patients with severe oligozoospermia. Mol Hum Reprod 2002; 8:286-98. [PMID: 11870237 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/8.3.286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Deletions of the DAZ gene family in distal Yq11 are always associated with deletions of the azoospermia factor c (AZFc) region, which we now estimate extends to 4.94 Mb. Because more Y gene families are located in this chromosomal region, and are expressed like the DAZ gene family only in the male germ line, the testicular pathology associated with complete AZFc deletions cannot predict the functional contribution of the DAZ gene family to human spermatogenesis. We therefore established a DAZ gene copy specific deletion analysis based on the DAZ-BAC sequences in GenBank. It includes the deletion analysis of eight DAZ-DNA PCR markers [six DAZ-single nucleotide varients (SNVs) and two DAZ-sequence tag sites (STS)] selected from the 5' to the 3'end of each DAZ gene and a deletion analysis of the gene copy specific EcoRV and TaqI restriction fragments identified in the internal repetitive DAZ gene regions (DYS1 locus). With these diagnostic tools, 63 DNA samples from men with idiopathic oligozoospermia and 107 DNA samples from men with proven fertility were analysed for the presence of the complete DAZ gene locus, encompassing the four DAZ gene copies. In five oligozoospermic patients, we found a DAZ-SNV/STS and DYS1/EcoRV and TaqI fragment deletion pattern indicative for deletion of the DAZ1 and DAZ2 gene copies; one of these deletions could be identified as a 'de-novo' deletion because it was absent in the DAZ locus of the patient's father. The same DAZ deletions were not found in any of the 107 fertile control samples. We therefore conclude that the deletion of the DAZ1/DAZ2 gene doublet in five out of our 63 oligozoospermic patients (8%) is responsible for the patients' reduced sperm numbers. It is most likely caused by intrachromosomal recombination events between two long repetitive sequence blocks (AZFc-Rep1) flanking the DAZ gene structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Fernandes
- Reproduction Genetics, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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28
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Zhang S, Qiu W, Wu H, Zhang G, Huang M, Xiao C, Yang J, Kamp C, Huang X, Huellen K, Yue Y, Pan A, Lebo R, Milunsky A, Vogt PH. The shorter zinc finger protein ZNF230 gene message is transcribed in fertile male testes and may be related to human spermatogenesis. Biochem J 2001; 359:721-7. [PMID: 11672448 PMCID: PMC1222195 DOI: 10.1042/0264-6021:3590721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The zinc finger gene family represents one of the largest in the mammalian genome, with several of these genes reported to be involved in spermatogenesis. A newly discovered gene has been identified that is expressed abundantly in the testicular tissue of fertile men as determined by mRNA differential display. The gene encodes a C(3)HC(4)-type zinc finger protein motif (ring finger motif) consistent with a role in pre-meiotic or post-meiotic sperm development. The gene was named ZNF230 and mapped to the short arm of chromosome 11 (11p15). ZNF230 has two transcripts, of 1 kb and 4.4 kb in length. The shorter 1 kb transcript was only detected in testicular tissue whereas the longer 4.4 kb transcript was not detected in testis but was found in several other tissues. The lack of detectable ZNF230 expression in azoospermic patients by reverse transcriptase-mediated PCR analysis is interpreted to mean that this gene is involved in maintaining normal human male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics, West China Hospital and Key Laboratory of Morbid Genomics and Forensic Medicine of Sichuan, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China.
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29
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Kamp C, Huellen K, Fernandes S, Sousa M, Schlegel PN, Mielnik A, Kleiman S, Yavetz H, Krause W, Küpker W, Johannisson R, Schulze W, Weidner W, Barros A, Vogt PH. High deletion frequency of the complete AZFa sequence in men with Sertoli-cell-only syndrome. Mol Hum Reprod 2001; 7:987-94. [PMID: 11574668 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/7.10.987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We have developed a rapid screening protocol for deletion analysis of the complete AZFa sequence (i.e. 792 kb) on the Y chromosome of patients with idiopathic Sertoli-cell-only (SCO) syndrome. This Y deletion was mapped earlier in proximal Yq11 and first found in the Y chromosome of the SCO patient JOLAR, now designated as the AZFa reference patient. We now show that similar AZFa deletions occur with a frequency of 9% in the SCO patient group. In two multiplex polymerase chain reaction experiments, deletions of the complete AZFa sequence were identified by a typical deletion pattern of four new sequence-tagged sites (STS): AZFa-prox1, positive; AZFa-prox2, negative; AZFa-dist1, negative; AZFa-dist2, positive. The STS were established in the proximal and distal neighbourhoods of the two retroviral sequence blocks (HERV15yq1 and HERV15yq2) which encompass the break-point sites for AZFa deletions of the human Y chromosome. We have found deletions of the complete AZFa sequence always associated with a uniform SCO pattern on testicular biopsies. Patients with other testicular histologies as described in the literature and in this paper have only partial AZFa deletions. The current AZFa screening protocols can therefore be improved by analysing the extension of AZFa deletions. This may provide a valuable prognostic tool for infertility clinics performing testicular sperm extraction, as it would enable the exclusion of AZFa patients with a complete SCO syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Kamp
- Reproduction Genetics, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 328, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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30
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Abstract
The human genome contains six arylsulfatase genes (ARSA-ARSF), of which four are clustered in a distal region of the short arm of the X chromosome (Xp22.3). They were probably generated by a series of evolutionary duplication events; their exon-intron boundaries are identical. Nevertheless, different transcript lengths and the absence of cross-hybridizations point to a specific function of each gene in human cell metabolism, and multiple transcripts suggest the coding of protein isoforms. We identified a novel protein isoform of the ARSD gene by isolation of a series of cDNA clones from a human testis cDNA library. The clones were only partially identical to another series of ARSD clones isolated earlier (now designated ARSDalpha clones). Their specific C-terminal region (1160 nt) encodes a novel ARSD peptide of 48 amino acids and was identified as part of intron 6 of the ARSD gene in Xp22.3. We therefore designate them ARSDbeta clones. Expression analyses of ARSDalpha and ARSDbeta by semiquantitative RT-PCR revealed the presence of both in multiple human tissues, although in different quantities. A physiologic substrate for arylsulfatase D proteins is not known. We therefore estimated their sulfatase activities in vitro with the aid of the 4-methylumbelliferyl sulfate (4-MUS) assay. Surprisingly, neither ARSD protein isoform demonstrated any sulfatase activity alone or in combination, although their catalytic peptide domain is strongly conserved in comparison with that of the other X-chromosomal arylsulfatase enzymes (ARSC, ARSE, ARSF), all of which are functionally active in the 4-MUS assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Urbitsch
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, INF 328, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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31
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Paracchini S, Stuppia L, Gatta V, Palka G, Moro E, Foresta C, Mengua L, Oliva R, Ballescà JL, Kremer JA, van Golde RJ, Tuerlings JH, Hargreave T, Ross A, Cooke H, Huellen K, Vogt PH, Tyler-Smith C. Y-chromosomal DNA haplotypes in infertile European males carrying Y-microdeletions. J Endocrinol Invest 2000; 23:671-6. [PMID: 11097432 DOI: 10.1007/bf03343792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We have determined Y-chromosomal DNA haplotypes in 73 infertile European males carrying Y microdeletions and compared them with the haplotypes of 299 infertile males lacking microdeletions. Chromosomes were typed with a set of 11 binary Y markers, which identified 8 haplogroups in the sample. Haplogroup frequencies were compared between 3 microdeletion classes and the non-deleted infertile males. Deletions arise on many different haplotypic backgrounds. No statistically significant differences in frequency were seen, although the small number of AZFa deletions lay predominantly on one branch of the Y haplotype tree.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Paracchini
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, UK
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32
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Kamp C, Hirschmann P, Voss H, Huellen K, Vogt PH. Two long homologous retroviral sequence blocks in proximal Yq11 cause AZFa microdeletions as a result of intrachromosomal recombination events. Hum Mol Genet 2000; 9:2563-72. [PMID: 11030762 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/9.17.2563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We mapped the breakpoints of the AZoospermia factor a (AZFa) microdeletion located in proximal Yq11 in six men with complete germ cell aplasia, i.e. Sertoli Cell Only syndrome (SCO). The proximal breakpoints were identified in a long retroviral sequence block (HERV15yq1: 9747 nucleotides) at the 5' end of the DYS11 DNA locus in Yq11, interval D3. The distal breakpoints were found in a homologous HERV15 sequence block mapped to the Yq11 interval D6, i.e. in the distal part of the AZFa region (HERV15yq2: 9969 nucleotides). Compared with the HERV15yq1 sequence, HERV15yq2 is marked by a deletion of a HERV15 sequence domain at its 5' end and insertion of an LINE 1 3'-UTR sequence block (L1PA4) of similar length at its 3' end. The deletion of the L1PA4 element was recognized as the molecular origin of the DYS11 12f2 restriction fragment length polymorphism. For all six AZFa patients it was possible to perform PCR experiments bridging both retroviral sequence blocks, which map in a distance of 781.557 kb in proximal Yq11 in fertile men. The AZFa breakpoint-fusion regions were located in their recombined HERV15yq1/HERV15yq2 sequence blocks in either one of two long identical sequence domains (ID1 and ID2). We therefore assume that intrachromosomal recombination events between the two homologous retroviral sequence blocks in proximal Yq11 are probably the causative agents for most of the AZFa microdeletions observed in men with SCO syndrome. A mean value of 792 kb was estimated for their molecular lengths.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Kamp
- Reproduction Genetics, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 328, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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33
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Grossmann B, Weinbauer G, Hirschmann P, Vogt PH. Conservation of the deleted-in-azoospermia-like-1 (DAZL1) gene structure in old world monkeys points to a homologous function of DAZL1 in this primate class. J Endocrinol Invest 2000; 23:616-22. [PMID: 11079458 DOI: 10.1007/bf03343785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
We isolated the complete deleted-in-azoospermia-like-1 (DAZL1) gene of the old world monkey Macaca fascicularis (tentatively designated as MafaDAZL1) and compared its sequence structure to that of the other DAZL1 genes isolated so far. In addition to the homologous RNA recognition motif (RRM domain), we only identified a high conservation of the Mafa-DAZL1 coding region to the mammalian DAZL1 genes (i.e. mouse: Dazl1; and human: DAZL1) and to that of Xenopus (xdazl). Only in the primates, Macaca fascicularis and human, sequences and lengths of the 5' and 3' untranslated DAZL1 gene structures (UTRs) displayed a similar conservation as their coding regions (i.e. 91-94%). Both belong to the primate class of old world monkeys evolutionarily separated 36-55 million years ago (1). The strong conservation of the complete DAZL1 gene structure in both primate species suggests a similar control and maturation pathway of DAZL1 transcripts in the germ line of old world monkeys and also indicates a homologous function of the DAZL1 RNA-binding protein in this primate class.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Grossmann
- Reproduction Genetics in Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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34
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Simoni M, Bakker E, Eurlings MC, Matthijs G, Moro E, Müller CR, Vogt PH. Laboratory guidelines for molecular diagnosis of Y-chromosomal microdeletions. Int J Androl 1999; 22:292-9. [PMID: 10509229 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2605.1999.00193.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Simoni
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine of the University, Münster, Germany
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35
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Reproduction Genetics, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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36
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Abstract
Human chromosome deletions in Yq11 seem to occur frequently as de novo mutation events in men with idiopathic azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia. However, the molecular extensions of these deletions are variable. They can be large and therefore visible under the microscope or small, not visible under the microscope, and containing the deletion of one or more DNA loci recently mapped in an apparently consecutive order along the Yq11 chromosome region. The results of 20 extensive microdeletion screening programmes have now corroborated the prevalence of the deletion of three non-overlapping DNA regions in proximal, middle and distal Yq11, which were designated earlier as AZFa, AZFb and AZFc. Deletions of single DNA loci were also reported, but as de novo and as polymorphic mutation events. Their clinical significance with regard to the men's infertility should therefore initially be handled with caution. Multiple Y genes expressed in human testis have now been mapped to each AZF region. At least one of them should be functional in human spermatogenesis and, if mutated, cause azoospermia. However, gene-specific mutations leading to the azoospermia phenotype have not yet been found for any of these AZF candidate genes. This might raise the question as to whether an AZF gene really exists in Yq11 or if the azoospermia phenotypes are only observed after deletion of a complete AZF region, after deletion of its complete gene content.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Reproduction Genetics in Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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37
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Vogt PH, Affara N, Davey P, Hammer M, Jobling MA, Lau YF, Mitchell M, Schempp W, Tyler-Smith C, Williams G, Yen P, Rappold GA. Report of the Third International Workshop on Y Chromosome Mapping 1997. Heidelberg, Germany, April 13-16, 1997. Cytogenet Cell Genet 1998; 79:1-20. [PMID: 9533010 DOI: 10.1159/000134680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Institut für Humangenetik, Universität Heidelberg, Germany.
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38
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Vogt PH. Molecular basis of male (in)fertility. Int J Androl 1998; 20 Suppl 3:2-10. [PMID: 9466180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
It is obvious that the molecular basis of male (in)fertility is not a linear order of genetic events but the interaction of complex genetic networks functional in three main developmental pathways: male germ-line development, male gonad development, and male somatic development. Consequently, primary genetic switch signals should exist for linking the different gene networks and/or for starting them. There is some evidence that such switch signals are concentrated on the sex chromosomes. However multiple genes encoding gene products functional for male fertility exist also on other chromosomes (autosomes). In this review I have tried to summarize our current knowledge of the location, structure and function of these genes in the human genome and, if possible, to reveal possible interactions. Additionally, the importance of the chromosome constitution (karyotype) for male fertility is discussed by describing the impairment of meiosis in sterile men with different chromosome abnormalities. As a consequence the question must be raised whether it is not advisable to increase our research activities on the analysis of genetic networks functional for male fertility in order to increase our molecular understanding of the causative agents leading to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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Habermann B, Mi HF, Edelmann A, Bohring C, Bäckert IT, Kiesewetter F, Aumüller G, Vogt PH. DAZ (Deleted in AZoospermia) genes encode proteins located in human late spermatids and in sperm tails. Hum Reprod 1998; 13:363-9. [PMID: 9557839 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/13.2.363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
We analysed the location of proteins encoded by the DAZ (Deleted in AZoospermia) genes in human testis tissue and in mature spermatozoa. The DAZ genes are known to be expressed exclusively in the human male germ line, and are candidate genes for the expression of the azoospermia factor AZFc mapped recently to distal Yq11. They encode testis-specific RNA binding proteins, the function of which is not yet known. Immunostaining experiments with antibodies prepared for the specific peptide domain encoded by the DAZ2 transcript (formerly SPGY1) revealed the presence of DAZ proteins in the innermost layer of the male germ cell epithelium and in the tails of spermatozoa. This suggests a function for DAZ proteins in the RNA metabolism of late spermatids, presumably in the storage or transport of testis-specific mRNA, the translation of which is repressed until the formation of mature spermatozoa. Deletion of DAZ genes is supposed not to interfere with human sperm maturation but to result in a gradual reduction of mature spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Habermann
- Department of Andrology, Centre of Dermatology, University of Marburg, Germany
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40
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Abstract
Y chromosomal spermatogenesis loci in Yq11 are disrupted with a frequency of 5-20% in men suffering from idiopathic infertility (azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia). They were designated azoospermia factors (AZFa, AZFb, AZFc). An efficient schedule for their molecular diagnosis in each infertility clinic is presented. In addition, I will include our current knowledge about their biological function during human germ cell development and a description of their pathology in men suffering from deletion of one or more AZF loci. Each Y gene expressed in testis tissue and located in Yq11, in a position overlapping one of the AZF loci, is an AZF candidate gene. Their diagnostic analysis will be described in a separate section. The clinical diagnosis of AZF candidate genes cannot substitute for diagnosis of the genetically defined AZF loci. Therefore, analysis of candidate genes is aimed at answering the question of whether mutations in their exon structures are able to induce the same pathological phenotypes as deletion of the corresponding AZF locus. Only after these gene mutations have been analysed can the AZF candidate gene be designated as a real AZF gene. Therefore, the basic aim of our current research is isolation and identification of all AZF genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Department of Reproduction Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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41
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Abstract
An overview is given about the current knowledge and research activities on the molecular analysis of interstitial deletions in the euchromatic part of the long arm of the human Y chromosome (Yq11). These mutations are associated with the male specific phenotype of azoospermia and severe oligozoospermia. The fact is stressed that only "de novo" microdeletions in Yq11 are of any diagnostic value in the infertility clinic because numerous polymorphic deletion events in Yq11 have also been reported. Three different "de novo" Yq11 microdeletions associated with male infertility are now found repeatedly (31 cases) in more than 700 patients. They strongly support the presence of at least three spermatogenesis loci in Yq11. They have been designated as AZFa, AZFb, and AZFc. Each of them should contain at least one Y gene functional in spermatogenesis and, if mutated, it should induce the same sterile phenotype as the corresponding AZF locus. These genes have not yet been found. However, some candidate genes exist: RBM for AZFb. DAZ and SPGY for AZFc. It is remarkable that all three encode testis specific RNA binding proteins with a similar sequence structure. Their structure and potential relationship is disussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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42
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Abstract
By simultaneously amplifying more than one locus in the same reaction, multiplex PCR is becoming a rapid and convenient screening assay in both the clinical and the research laboratory. While numerous papers and manuals discuss in detail conditions influencing the quality of PCR in general, relatively little has been published about the important experimental factors and the common difficulties frequently encountered with multiplex PCR. We have examined various conditions of the multiplex PCR, using a large number of primer pairs. Especially important for a successful multiplex PCR assay are the relative concentrations of the primers at the various loci, the concentration of the PCR buffer, the cycling temperatures and the balance between the magnesium chloride and deoxynucleotide concentrations. Based on our experience, we propose a protocol for developing a multiplex PCR assay and suggest ways to overcome commonly encountered problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Henegariu
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis 46202-5251, USA
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Elliott DJ, Millar MR, Oghene K, Ross A, Kiesewetter F, Pryor J, McIntyre M, Hargreave TB, Saunders PT, Vogt PH, Chandley AC, Cooke H. Expression of RBM in the nuclei of human germ cells is dependent on a critical region of the Y chromosome long arm. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 1997; 94:3848-53. [PMID: 9108067 PMCID: PMC20530 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.94.8.3848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The association of abnormal spermatogenesis in men with Y chromosome deletions suggests that genes important for spermatogenesis have been removed from these individuals. Recently, genes encoding two putative RNA-binding proteins (RBM and DAZ/SPGY) have been mapped to two different regions of the human Y chromosome. Both of these genes encode proteins that contain a single RNA recognition motif and a (different) internally repeating sequence. Y-linked RBM homologues are found in all mammalian species. We have raised an antiserum to RBM and used it to show that RBM is a nuclear protein expressed in fetal, prepubertal, and adult male germ cells. The distribution of RBM protein in the adult correlates with the pattern of transcriptional activity in spermatogenesis, suggesting that RBM is involved in the nuclear metabolism of newly synthesized RNA. RBM sequences are found on both arms of the Y chromosome making genotype-phenotype correlations difficult for this gene family. To address the location of the functional genes and the consequences of their deletion, we examined a panel of men with Y chromosome deletions and known testicular pathologies using this antiserum. This approach enabled us to map a region of the Y chromosome essential for RBM expression. In the absence of detectable RBM expression we see stages of germ cell development up to early meiosis, but not past this point into the haploid phase of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Elliott
- Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, Scotland.
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Shan Z, Hirschmann P, Seebacher T, Edelmann A, Jauch A, Morell J, Urbitsch P, Vogt PH. A SPGY copy homologous to the mouse gene Dazla and the Drosophila gene boule is autosomal and expressed only in the human male gonad. Hum Mol Genet 1996; 5:2005-11. [PMID: 8968755 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/5.12.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
We have isolated a series of human testis poly(A) cDNA clones by cross-hybridization to SPGY1, a Y gene homologous to DAZ. Their sequence analysis revealed an identical nucleotide composition in different 'full-length' clones, suggesting that all were encoded by the same gene. We mapped this gene to the short arm of chromosome 3 and designated it SPGYLA (SPGY like autosomal). Comparison of the SPGYLA cDNA sequence with the cDNA sequences of DAZ and SPGY1 revealed two prominent differences. The tandem repetitive structure of 72 bp sequence units (DAZ repeats) is absent. SPGYLA contains only one 72 bp sequence unit. Downstream of it, a specific 130 bp sequence domain is present which is absent in DAZ and SPGY1 but present in the mouse gene Dazla and in the Drosophila gene boule. SPGYLA encodes an RNA binding protein expressed only in the human male gonad. The data presented give strong evidence that not DAZ but SPGYLA is the functional human homologue of Dazla and boule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Shan
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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Vogt PH, Edelmann A, Kirsch S, Henegariu O, Hirschmann P, Kiesewetter F, Köhn FM, Schill WB, Farah S, Ramos C, Hartmann M, Hartschuh W, Meschede D, Behre HM, Castel A, Nieschlag E, Weidner W, Gröne HJ, Jung A, Engel W, Haidl G. Human Y chromosome azoospermia factors (AZF) mapped to different subregions in Yq11. Hum Mol Genet 1996; 5:933-43. [PMID: 8817327 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/5.7.933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 744] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In a large collaborative screening project, 370 men with idiopathic azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia were analysed for deletions of 76 DNA loci in Yq11. In 12 individuals, we observed de novo microdeletions involving several DNA loci, while an additional patient had an inherited deletion. They were mapped to three different subregions in Yq11. One subregion coincides to the AZF region defined recently in distal Yq11. The second and third subregion were mapped proximal to it, in proximal and middle Yq11, respectively. The different deletions observed were not overlapping but the extension of the deleted Y DNA in each subregion was similar in each patient analysed. In testis tissue sections, disruption of spermatogenesis was shown to be at the same phase when the microdeletion occurred in the same Yq11 subregion but at a different phase when the microdeletion occurred in a different Yq11 subregion. Therefore, we propose the presence of not one but three spermatogenesis loci in Yq11 and that each locus is active during a different phase of male germ cell development. As the most severe phenotype after deletion of each locus is azoospermia, we designated them as: AZFa, AZFb and AZFc. Their probable phase of function in human spermatogenesis and candidate genes involved will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Section Molecular Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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Kirsch S, Keil R, Edelmann A, Henegariu O, Hirschmann P, LePaslier D, Vogt PH. Molecular analysis of the genomic structure of the human Y chromosome in the euchromatic part of its long arm (Yq11). Cytogenet Cell Genet 1996; 75:197-206. [PMID: 9040791 DOI: 10.1159/000134481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Conventional methods of long range restriction mapping for analysis of the genomic DNA structure failed in Yq11, because single-copy DNA probes for blot hybridization analyses are rare and the rate of DNA methylation is high in this Y region. Numerous repetitive sequence blocks of unknown extensions are scattered throughout Yq11 and a patchwork of X-Y homologous DNA blocks were found by different investigators. Therefore, our approach towards a molecular analysis of this Y region reduced this complexity by performing first its molecular analysis in YAC clones mapping to Yq11. YACs contain only a part of the whole Yq11 DNA structure. In this paper, we present our first results of this approach based on quantitative blot analysis of 51 DNA loci in 67 YAC clones. The YACs were isolated from the three CEPH libraries and mapped to a contig of 13 Mb from proximal to distal Yq11 with aid of a detailed interval map. In distal Yq11, our analysis revealed the presence of local amplification events of different DNA domains. A model of their possible arrangement is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kirsch
- Reproductiongenetics in Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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Vogt PH. Genetic aspects of human infertility. Int J Androl 1995; 18 Suppl 2:3-6. [PMID: 8719851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Mutations of the human genome associated with the phenotype of infertility are well known. Some of these are visible under the microscope as specific chromosome mutations. Others arise from genes which function only in the germ line, or which function during development of the gonads, or which function also in non-gonadal somatic cells, in which cases sterility is manifest as a pleiotropic effect of dysfunction of this gene also in certain gonadal cells. Examples of mutations are presented in this paper. They indicate that men with a severe idiopathic sterility factor have an especially high risk for a genetically determined barrier to reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Section of Molecular Human Genetics, Institute of Human Genetics and Anthropology, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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Abstract
Artificial fertilization protocols were developed to circumvent natural reproduction barriers. Genetically determined barriers were commonly estimated at approximately 30%. This review presents an overview of possible genetic barriers and divides them into four different groups for discussion of their specific aspects. Obviously, genetically determined sterility factors are mostly associated with the phenotype of severe idiopathic male sterility. Before the development of ICSI, the treatment of this patient group showed only a low rate of success. Now many scientists are afraid that ICSI will not only increase this rate of success significantly, but will also increase the rate of genetically determined diseases, including sterility, to ICSI offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Section Molecular Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg
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Vogt PH, Edelmann A, Hirschmann P, Köhler MR. The azoospermia factor (AZF) of the human Y chromosome in Yq11: function and analysis in spermatogenesis. Reprod Fertil Dev 1995; 7:685-93. [PMID: 8711205 DOI: 10.1071/rd9950685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Different Y mutations in Yq11 occurring de novo in sterile males were first described 19 years ago. Since the phenotype of the patients was always associated with azoospermia or severe oligospermia, it was postulated that these mutations interrupt a Y spermatogenesis locus in the euchromatic Y region (Yq11) called azoospermia factor (AZF). Recently, it became possible to map AZF mutations to different subregions in Yq11 by molecular deletion mapping. This indicated that azoospermia is possibly caused by more than one Y gene in Yq11 and the Yq11 chromatin structure. The frequency of AZF mutations in idiopathic sterile males (5-20%) may indicate a need for a general screening programme for its analysis in infertility clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Section Molecular Human Genetics, University Heidelberg, Germany
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Abstract
Cytogenetic analysis of aberrant human Y chromosomes was done by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with Y specific repetitive DNA probes. It revealed an interstitial deletion of different DNA blocks in two dicentric chromosome structures. One deletion includes the total alphoid DNA structure of one centromeric region. The second deletion includes the total repetitive DYZ5 DNA structure in the pericentromeric region of one short Y arm. Both dicentric Y chromosomes were iso(Yp) chromosomes with break and fusion point located in Yq11, the euchromatic part of the long Y arm. Their phenotypic appearance was "abnormal", resembling small monocentric Yq-chromosomes in metaphase plates. Mosaic cell lines, usually included in karyotypes with dicentric Y chromosomes, were not observed. It is assumed that both deletion events suppress the kinetochore activity in one Y centromeric region and thus stabilize its dicentric structure. Local interstitial deletion events had not been described in dicentric human Y chromosomes, but are common in dicentric yeast chromosomes. This raises the question of whether deletion events in dicentric human chromosomes are rare or restricted to the Y chromosome or also represent a general possibility for stabilization of a dicentric chromosome structure in human.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Köhler
- Sektion Molekulare Humangenetik, Universität Heidelberg, Germany
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