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Yu J, Xu J, Li H, Wu P, Zhu S, Huang X, Shen C, Zheng B, Li W. Gold nanoparticles retrogradely penetrate through testicular barriers via Sertoli-cells mediated endocytosis/exocytosis and induce immune response in mouse. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2023; 255:114827. [PMID: 36965276 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Despite the rapidly growing interest in nanoparticle-mediated controllable male contraception and recovery of male fertility, novel applications of nanoparticles in these processes are limited by a knowledge gap regarding their transport and distribution in the testes. Here, we investigated the fate of gold nanoparticles in the mouse testes using two injection methods, namely, interstitial testicular injection (IT-AuNPs, AuNPs exposure in the interstitial compartment of the testes) and rete testis injection (RT-AuNPs, AuNPs exposure in the adluminal compartment of the seminiferous tubules). In this study, we used 100 nm spherical AuNPs and microinjected with 5 μL AuNPs (30 mg/mL) for the experiments. For IT-AuNP injection, we found that AuNPs could not penetrate through the Sertoli cell-mediated blood-testis barrier (BTB) of the seminiferous tubules, and no male reproductive toxicity was observed. For RT-AuNP injection, AuNPs could be retrogradely transported from the adluminal compartment to the interstitial compartment of the testes via Sertoli cell-mediated endocytosis/exocytosis, resulting in damage and the release of inflammatory cytokines in the mouse testis. Our results highlight a retrograde nanoparticle transport function of Sertoli cells, thereby providing a mechanistic overview of the development and use of nanobiotechnology in male reproduction. SYNOPSIS: This study provides new insights into male reproductive immunotoxicity for AuNPs exposure and elucidates a mechanism via Sertoli cell-mediated endocytosis/exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China.
| | - Jinfu Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Hong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215002, China
| | - Pengfei Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Shiyao Zhu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xiaoyan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Cong Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215002, China
| | - Bo Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215002, China.
| | - Wenqing Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China.
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Cai Z, Zhang Y, Yang L, Ma C, Fei Y, Ding J, Song W, Tong WM, Niu Y, Li H. ALKBH5 in mouse testicular Sertoli cells regulates Cdh2 mRNA translation to maintain blood-testis barrier integrity. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2022; 27:101. [PMID: 36418936 PMCID: PMC9682758 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-022-00404-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is involved in mammalian spermatogenesis. In both germ cells and Leydig cells, ALKBH5 regulates spermatogenesis and androgen synthesis in an m6A-dependent manner. However, it is unclear whether ALKBH5 plays a role in testicular Sertoli cells, which constitute the blood-testis barrier (BTB) through cell junctions between adjacent Sertoli cells. METHODS ALKBH5 expression in the testes of humans and mice was detected by immunohistochemical staining and immunofluorescence staining. BTB integrity was evaluated by BTB assay. m6A-seq was performed to screen for BTB-related molecules regulated by ALKBH5. m6A immunoprecipitation-quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), RNA immunoprecipitation-qPCR, western blot, coimmunoprecipitation, and polysome fractionation-qPCR analyses were performed to explore the mechanisms of ALKBH5 in BTB. Transmission electron microscopy was applied to observe the BTB ultrastructure. RESULTS ALKBH5 in Sertoli cells is related to the integrity of the BTB. Subsequently, the m6A level on Cdh2 mRNA, encoding a structural protein N-cadherin in the BTB, was found to be regulated by ALKBH5. IGF2BP1/2/3 complexes and YTHDF1 promoted Cdh2 mRNA translation. In addition, we found that basal endoplasmic specialization, in which N-cadherin is a main structural protein, was severely disordered in the testes of Alkbh5-knockout mice. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed that ALKBH5 regulates BTB integrity via basal endoplasmic specialization by affecting Cdh2 mRNA translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonglin Cai
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China ,grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China ,grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Department of Urology, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Yang
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chunhui Ma
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Fei
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Ding
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Song
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei-Min Tong
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China ,grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Molecular Pathology Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yamei Niu
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China ,grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Molecular Pathology Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hongjun Li
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Chen J, Ding Y, Chen H, Wu Y, Jin L. Reproductive toxicity of InP/ZnS QDs in male rare minnow (Gobiocypris rarus). Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2022; 259:109392. [PMID: 35675901 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2022.109392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
InP/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) stand out among cadmium-free alternatives for higher exciton Bohr radius and strong quantum confined effect. In this study, the reproductive toxicity and mechanism of InP/ZnS QDs at different concentrations in male Chinese rare minnows (Gobiocypris rarus) were investigated. The results showed that QDs in 800 nmol/L concentration group could enter the testes after 1 d of exposure and caused changes in the structure of the testes, including the scattered distribution of seminal vesicles, reduction in germ cells and vacuolation in some areas of interstitial cells. The expression levels of androgen receptor (Ar) and doublesex and mab-3 related transcription factor 1 (Dmrt1) and the tight junction protein-related genes β-catenin and occludin were upregulated in rare minnows. The sperm quality and ATP content of parents in the 800 nmol/L treatment group were significantly decreased. Continuous detection of the development of F1 generation embryos showed that parental exposure to InP/ZnS QDs reduced the heart rate and spontaneous movement frequency of F1 generation embryos, and the fertilization rate of the F1 generation in the 800 nmol/L treatment group was significantly reduced. In general, the sperm quality and testicular structure of adult rare minnows were not significantly affected by concentrations below 400 nmol/L. High-concentration InP/ZnS QDs exposure can damage the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and cause reproductive damage to the parents of rare minnows, which will continue to the next generation and affect their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Southwest University School of Life Sciences, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yanhong Ding
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Southwest University School of Life Sciences, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Hang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Southwest University School of Life Sciences, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yingyi Wu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Southwest University School of Life Sciences, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Li Jin
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Southwest University School of Life Sciences, Chongqing 400715, China.
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Wang S, Qian Z, Ge X, Li C, Xue M, Liang K, Ma R, Ouyang L, Zheng L, Jing J, Cao S, Zhang Y, Yang Y, Chen Y, Ma J, Yao B. LncRNA Tug1 maintains blood-testis barrier integrity by modulating Ccl2 expression in high-fat diet mice. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:114. [PMID: 35103851 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04142-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells are essential for spermatogenesis in the testicular seminiferous tubules by forming blood-testis barrier (BTB) and creating a unique microenvironment for spermatogenesis. Many lncRNAs have been reported to participate in spermatogenesis. However, the role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in Sertoli cells has rarely been examined. Herein, we found that a high-fat diet (HFD) decreased sperm quality, impaired BTB integrity and resulted in accumulation of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), especially palmitic acid (PA), in mouse testes. PA decreased the expression of tight junction (TJ)-related proteins, increased permeability and decreased transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) in primary Sertoli cells and TM4 cells. Moreover, lncRNA Tug1 was found to be involved in PA-induced BTB disruption by RNA-seq. Tug1 depletion distinctly impaired the TJs of Sertoli cells and overexpression of Tug1 alleviated the disruption of BTB integrity induced by PA. Moreover, Ccl2 was found to be a downstream target of Tug1, and decreased TJ-related protein levels and TER and increased FITC-dextran permeability in vitro. Furthermore, the addition of Ccl2 damaged BTB integrity after overexpression of Tug1 in the presence of PA. Mechanistically, we found that Tug1 could directly bind to EZH2 and regulate H3K27me3 occupancy in the Ccl2 promoter region by RNA immunoprecipitation and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Our study revealed an important role of Tug1 in the BTB integrity of Sertoli cells and provided a new view of the role of lncRNAs in male infertility.
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Chen T, Zhou Y, Liu X, Liu Y, Yuan J, Wang Z. Adenylyl cyclase 3 deficiency results in dysfunction of blood-testis barrier during mouse spermiogenesis. Theriogenology 2021; 180:40-52. [PMID: 34953349 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Human infertility has become a global medical and social health problem. Mice deficient in type 3 adenylyl cyclase (AC3), a key enzyme that synthesizes cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), develop male infertility, although the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unknown. We performed a label-free quantitative (LFQ) proteomics analyses to identify testicular differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and their respective biological processes. Furthermore, histological examination demonstrated that AC3 deficiency in mice led to mild impairment of spermatogenesis, including the thinning of seminiferous epithelium and local lesions in the testis. We further identified that the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) was impaired in AC3 knockout (AC3-/-) mice accompanied with the reduction in the expression of tight junctions (TJs) and ectoplasmic specialization (ESs)-related proteins. In addition, the deletion of AC3 in mice also reduced the germ cell proliferation, increased apoptosis, and decreased lipid deposition in the seminiferous tubules. Collectively, our results revealed a role of AC3 in regulating the BTB integrity during spermatogenesis. Thus, our findings provide new perspectives for future research in male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingrong Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, Hebei, PR China
| | - Yanfen Zhou
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, Hebei, PR China
| | - Xinxia Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071030, Hebei, PR China
| | - Yuxin Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071030, Hebei, PR China
| | - Junkai Yuan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071030, Hebei, PR China
| | - Zhenshan Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, Hebei, PR China.
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Peirouvi T, Aliaghaei A, Eslami Farsani B, Ziaeipour S, Ebrahimi V, Forozesh M, Ghadipasha M, Mahmoudiasl GR, Aryan A, Moghimi N, Abdi S, Raoofi A, Kargar Godaneh M, Abdollahifar MA. COVID-19 disrupts the blood-testis barrier through the induction of inflammatory cytokines and disruption of junctional proteins. Inflamm Res 2021; 70:1165-1175. [PMID: 34436630 PMCID: PMC8387554 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-021-01497-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Junctional proteins are the most important component of the blood-testis barrier and maintaining the integrity of this barrier is essential for spermatogenesis and male fertility. The present study elucidated the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in patients who died from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (COVID-19) complications. METHODS In this study, lung and testis tissue was collected from autopsies of COVID-19 positive (n = 10) and negative men (n = 10) and was taken for stereology, immunocytochemistry, and RNA extraction. RESULTS Evaluation of the lung tissue showed that the SARS-CoV-2 infection caused extensive damage to the lung tissue and also increases inflammation in testicular tissue and destruction of the testicular blood barrier. Autopsied testicular specimens of COVID-19 showed that COVID-19 infection significantly changes the spatial arrangement of testicular cells and notably decreased the number of Sertoli cells. Moreover, the immunohistochemistry results showed a significant reduction in the protein expression of occluding, claudin-11, and connexin-43 in the COVID-19 group. In addition, we also observed a remarkable enhancement in protein expression of CD68 in the testes of the COVID-19 group in comparison with the control group. Furthermore, the result showed that the expression of TNF-α, IL1β, and IL6 was significantly increased in COVID-19 cases as well as the expression of occludin, claudin-11, and connexin-43 was decreased in COVID-19 cases. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the present study demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 could induce the up-regulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokine and down-regulation of junctional proteins of the BTB, which can disrupt BTB and ultimately impair spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahmineh Peirouvi
- Department of Histology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Abbas Aliaghaei
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Arabi Ave, Daneshjuo Blvd, Erabi Ave, Velenjak, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Sanaz Ziaeipour
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Arabi Ave, Daneshjuo Blvd, Erabi Ave, Velenjak, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Ebrahimi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehdi Forozesh
- Forensic Medicine Legal Medicine Research Center, Iranian Legal Medicine Organization, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoud Ghadipasha
- Forensic Medicine Legal Medicine Research Center, Iranian Legal Medicine Organization, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Arefeh Aryan
- Anatomy Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Negin Moghimi
- Department of Histology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Arabi Ave, Daneshjuo Blvd, Erabi Ave, Velenjak, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shabnam Abdi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Raoofi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Mohammadhossein Kargar Godaneh
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Arabi Ave, Daneshjuo Blvd, Erabi Ave, Velenjak, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Amin Abdollahifar
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Arabi Ave, Daneshjuo Blvd, Erabi Ave, Velenjak, Tehran, Iran.
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Misiakiewicz-Has K, Pilutin A, Wiszniewska B. Influence of hormonal imbalance on the integrity of seminiferous epithelium in the testes of adult rats chronically exposed to letrozole and rats exposed to soya isoflavones during the prenatal period, lactation, and up to sexual maturity. Reprod Biol 2021; 21:100562. [PMID: 34555686 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2021.100562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The structural integrity of the germ cells in the seminiferous epithelium and the correct process of spermatogenesis are made possible by proteins that participate in the formation of different types of junctions. This study was performed on samples of the testes of 4 groups (2 experimental and 2 corresponding control) of male Wistar rats. In the first experimental group, the adult rats received letrozole - a nonsteroidal inhibitor of cytochrome P450 aromatase (P450arom). The second experimental group was exposed to soya isoflavones during the prenatal period, lactation, and up to sexual maturity. The aim of this study was to examine the immunoexpression of β-catenin, N-cadherin, occludin, connexin43, annexin V, and advanced glycation end products (AGE) in the seminiferous epithelium of rat testes with chronic estrogen deficiency and of rats exposed to soya isoflavones. Series of sections of the testes were stained using PAS and silver impregnation. Moreover, immunohistochemistry tests were performed. A semi-quantitative determination of protein immunoexpression was performed using Image J. The number of annexin V positive Sertoli cells per tubule were counted manually. Comparisons between the experimental and corresponding control groups were performed using a non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test. The most common alterations were prematurely sloughed germ cells in the lumen of the seminiferous tubules and invaginations of the seminiferous tubules. We observed a lower number of annexin V positive Sertoli cells and a lower expression of N-cadherin and occludin in the seminiferous epithelium of both groups of rats with hormonal imbalances. Moreover, a higher expression of AGE, a lower expression of connexin 43 and a lower amount of reticular fibers in the basal lamina of seminiferous tubules was present in rats treated with letrozole and a higher expression of β-catenin was found in rats exposed to soya isoflavones. The hormonal imbalance between androgens and estrogens resulted in a decreased number of annexin V positive Sertoli cells. This may be associated with a failed clearance of apoptotic germ cells that leads to disturbances in the blood-testis-barrier (BTB) by affecting the expression of junctional proteins in the seminiferous epithelium. Moreover, a decreased level of estrogens was also associated with an increased expression of AGEs and with a changed composition of basal lamina in the seminiferous tubules of rats. These changes could lead to germ cell sloughing and invaginations of the seminiferous tubules.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Misiakiewicz-Has
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland.
| | - A Pilutin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
| | - B Wiszniewska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
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Li S, Wang Q, Yu H, Yang L, Sun Y, Xu N, Wang N, Lei Z, Hou J, Jin Y, Zhang H, Li L, Xu F, Zhang L. Polystyrene microplastics induce blood-testis barrier disruption regulated by the MAPK-Nrf2 signaling pathway in rats. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2021; 28:47921-47931. [PMID: 33895957 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13911-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
As a persistent pollutant, microplastics (MPs) have been reported to induce sperm quantity decrease in mice. However, the related mechanism remains obscure. Therefore, this study is intended to explore the effects of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) on male reproduction and its related mechanism of blood-testis barrier (BTB) impairment. Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats were divided randomly into four groups fed with PS-MPs for 90 days at doses of 0 mg/day (control group), 0.015 mg/day, 0.15 mg/day, and 1.5 mg/day, respectively. The present results have shown that PS-MP exposure led to the damage of seminiferous tubule, resulted in apoptosis of spermatogenic cells, and decreased the motility and concentration of sperm, while the abnormality of sperm was elevated. Meanwhile, PS-MPs could induce oxidative stress and activate the p38 MAPK pathway and thus deplete the nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (Nrf2). Noteworthily, PS-MPs led to the BTB-related protein expression decrease. All these results demonstrated that PS-MP exposure may lead to the destruction of BTB integrity and the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells through the activation of the MAPK-Nrf2 pathway. The current study provided novelty evidence for elucidating the effects of PS-MPs on male reproductive toxicity and its potential mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengda Li
- College of Clinical Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yan Tai, People's Republic of China
| | - Qimeng Wang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yan Tai, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Yu
- College of Basic Medicine & Xu Rongxiang Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, People's Republic of China
| | - Long Yang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yan Tai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiqing Sun
- College of Clinical Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yan Tai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Xu
- College of Clinical Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yan Tai, People's Republic of China
| | - Nana Wang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yan Tai, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhimin Lei
- College of Clinical Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yan Tai, People's Republic of China
| | - Junyu Hou
- College of Clinical Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yan Tai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinchuan Jin
- Department of Medical Psychology, Fourth Military Medical University, No. 169 West Changle Road, Xi'an, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hongqin Zhang
- College of Basic Medicine & Xu Rongxiang Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, People's Republic of China
| | - Lianqin Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Feibo Xu
- College of Basic Medicine & Xu Rongxiang Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, People's Republic of China
| | - Lianshuang Zhang
- College of Basic Medicine & Xu Rongxiang Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, People's Republic of China.
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Kolbasi B, Bulbul MV, Karabulut S, Altun CE, Cakici C, Ulfer G, Mudok T, Keskin I. Chronic unpredictable stress disturbs the blood-testis barrier affecting sperm parameters in mice. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 42:983-995. [PMID: 33653651 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does chronic stress affect the key proteins and sperm parameters of the blood-testis barrier (BTB)? DESIGN C57Bl/6 mice were divided into two groups: a non-treated control group and a chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) applied group. The stress status of the animals was confirmed with behavioural tests. Histopathologic evaluation was conducted by haematoxylin and eosin staining and electron microscope. Malondialdehyde, corticosterone and testosterone levels were evaluated in peripheral blood. Expression levels of BTB proteins, namely zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), claudin-11 (CLDN11) and clathrin in Sertoli cells, were assessed by Western blotting and immunofluorescence techniques. Sperm samples were collected from cauda epididymis, and sperm parameters analysed. RESULTS The stress model was confirmed by behavioural tests. Histopathological evaluation of the testes demonstrated a mild degeneration in seminiferous tubules. Malondialdehyde (P = 0.008) and corticosterone levels increased (P = 0.004) and testosterone levels decreased (P = 0.005) in the CUS group. Electron microscopic evaluation confirmed the damage in BTB integrity in the CUS group. Western blot analysis showed that ZO-1 and CLDN11 levels were significantly decreased, although clathrin levels were unchanged. Although sperm concentration and total motility rate were not significantly different between the groups, progressive motility (P = 0.03), normal sperm morphology (P = 0.04), chromatin integrity (toluidine blue) (P = 0.002) and the acrosomal reaction rate (P = 0.002) were significantly decreased, and acrosomal abnormality rate was dramatically increased (P = 0.04) in the CUS group. CONCLUSIONS In mice, CUS disrupted BTB integrity and impaired sperm parameters. A decrease in ZO-1 and CLDN11 expression levels may be proposed as the causative factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bircan Kolbasi
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey; Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center (REMER), Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Muhammet Volkan Bulbul
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey; Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center (REMER), Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Seda Karabulut
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey; Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center (REMER), Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ceren Erdem Altun
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey; Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center (REMER), Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cagri Cakici
- Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center (REMER), Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey; Department of Biochemistry, Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gozde Ulfer
- Department of Biochemistry, Istanbul Medipol University Hospital Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tangul Mudok
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Dentistry, Istanbul Kent University Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ilknur Keskin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey; Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center (REMER), Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey.
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10
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Cui L, Gu Y, Liu S, Li M, Ye J, Zhang F, Luo X, Chang WL, Gui Y. TBC1D20 Is Essential for Mouse Blood-Testis Barrier Integrity Through Maintaining the Epithelial Phenotype and Modulating the Maturation of Sertoli Cells. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1443-1454. [PMID: 31994000 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00156-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells are important for spermatogenesis not only by directly interacting with germ line cells in the seminiferous epithelium but also by constituting the blood-testis barrier (BTB) structure to create a favorable environment for spermatogenesis. Blind sterile (bs) male mice are infertile, with excessive germ cell apoptosis and spermatogenesis arrest. TBC1D20 (TBC1 domain family member 20) deficiency has been identified as the causative mutation in bs mice. However, whether TBC1D20 loss of function also impairs BTB integrity, which further contributes to the failed spermatogenesis of bs male mice, remains unclear. In the present study, biotin tracer assay and transmission electron microscopy showed severely disrupted BTB integrity in bs testes. Compared to the wild-type Sertoli cells, BTB components of cultured bs Sertoli cells in vitro was perturbed with downregulation of E-cadherin, ZO-1, β-catenin, and Claudin 11. The obvious rearrangement of F-actin indicated disrupted epithelial-mesenchymal balance in TBC1D20-deficient Sertoli cells. The ability of bs Sertoli cells to maintain the clone formation of spermatogonia stem cells was also obviously limited. Furthermore, the decreasing of SOX9 (sex-determining region Y box 9) and WT1 (Wilms' tumor 1) and increasing of vimentin in bs Sertoli cells indicated that TBC1D20 loss of function attenuated the differentiation progression of bs Sertoli cells. In summary, TBC1D20 loss of function impedes the maturation of adult Sertoli cells and resulted in impaired BTB integrity, which is further implicated in the infertile phenotype of bs male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Cui
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Yanli Gu
- Department of Obstetrics, the People's Hospital of Longhua, Shenzhen, 518109, China
| | - Shuo Liu
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 10083, China
| | - Minghua Li
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Jing Ye
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Fanting Zhang
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Xiaomin Luo
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Wen-Lin Chang
- Department of Obstetrics, the People's Hospital of Longhua, Shenzhen, 518109, China.
| | - Yaoting Gui
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, 518036, China.
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11
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Arisha AH, Ahmed MM, Kamel MA, Attia YA, Hussein MMA. Morin ameliorates the testicular apoptosis, oxidative stress, and impact on blood-testis barrier induced by photo-extracellularly synthesized silver nanoparticles. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2019; 26:28749-28762. [PMID: 31376127 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-06066-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been widely produced for different industrial purposes. Recently, biogenic synthesis of AgNPs has emerged although the extent of effects from exposure, oral exposure in particular, to nanomaterials synthesized in such a manner remains elusive. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of oral administration of a dose of 50 mg/Kg body weight AgNPs biosynthesized in baker's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) over a period of eight weeks on the reproductive performance and the possibility of a protective effect through co-administration of morin. Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were used in four experimental groups (control, morin-treated group, AgNP-treated, and AgNP + morin co-treatment). AgNPs produced no significant alteration in daily food intake or body weight. Both the absolute and relative testicular weights were significantly reduced but not the epididymal weight. Also, serum levels of urea, creatinine, uric acid, and liver enzymes were significantly elevated. Furthermore, AgNPs significantly downregulated the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This corresponds to lower motility and viability percent, reduced sperm concentration, and a higher abnormality ratio as well as a prominent alteration in the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and testicular histology and induction of testicular apoptosis and oxidative stress. The supplementation of morin evidently restored most of the reproductive characters to its physiological range. We can conclude that exposure to the biologically synthesized AgNPs for an extended period of time has proven to be a health risk that can be ameliorated via oral administration of some bioactive agents including morin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Hamed Arisha
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt.
| | - Mona M Ahmed
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Kamel
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Yasser A Attia
- National Institute of Laser Enhanced Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M A Hussein
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
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12
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Liu B, Wu SD, Shen LJ, Zhao TX, Wei Y, Tang XL, Long CL, Zhou Y, He DW, Lin T, Wei GH. Spermatogenesis dysfunction induced by PM 2.5 from automobile exhaust via the ROS-mediated MAPK signaling pathway. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2019; 167:161-168. [PMID: 30326357 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.09.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Long-term exposure to particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) from automobile exhaust impairs spermatogenesis through oxidative stress injury, but the underlying mechanism is unknown. To investigate the toxic mechanism of PM2.5-induced spermatogenesis impairment, we focused on the MAPK signaling pathway. We also examined the effects of treatment with vitamins C and E on spermatogenic function. Male SD rats were divided randomly into three groups: control (0.9% sterilized saline), PM2.5 exposure (20 mg/kg.b.w.), and PM2.5 exposure (20 mg/kg.b.w.) with vitamin intervention (vitamin C, 100 mg/kg.b.w.; vitamin E, 50 mg/kg.b.w.). Male rats showed a marked decline in fertility and decreased sperm quality after PM2.5 exposure. The expression of SOD and Nrf2 was significantly decreased, and that of MDA was increased markedly. The expression of blood-testis barrier-associated proteins, such as ZO-1, occludin, connexin 43, and β-catenin, was significantly decreased, the Bcl-2/Bax ratio was downregulated, and the cleaved caspase-3 level was increased. Phosphorylation of MAPKs, including ERKs, JNKs, and p38, was upregulated. Treatment with vitamins C and E reversed the damage induced by PM2.5 exposure. These results suggest that PM2.5 from automobile exhaust disrupted spermatogenesis via ROS-mediated MAPK pathways, and that a combined vitamin C and E intervention effectively mitigated toxicity in the male reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liu
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing 400014 China
| | - Sheng-De Wu
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing 400014 China; Department of Pediatric Urology Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014 China
| | - Lian-Ju Shen
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing 400014 China.
| | - Tian-Xin Zhao
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing 400014 China
| | - Yi Wei
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing 400014 China
| | - Xiang-Liang Tang
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing 400014 China
| | - Chun-Lan Long
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing 400014 China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing 400014 China
| | - Da-Wei He
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing 400014 China; Department of Pediatric Urology Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014 China
| | - Tao Lin
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing 400014 China; Department of Pediatric Urology Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014 China
| | - Guang-Hui Wei
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing 400014 China; Department of Pediatric Urology Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014 China.
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13
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Adegoke EO, Wang X, Wang H, Wang C, Zhang H, Zhang G. Selenium (Na 2SeO 3) Upregulates Expression of Immune Genes and Blood-Testis Barrier Constituent Proteins of Bovine Sertoli Cell In Vitro. Biol Trace Elem Res 2018; 185:332-343. [PMID: 29383579 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-018-1248-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells were isolated from newborn calves and cultured in a medium supplemented with 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00 mg/L of sodium selenite to study their immune stimulatory effect, influence on cell's viability, and expression of blood-testis barrier proteins (occludin, connexin-43, zonula occluden, E-cadherin) using quantitative PCR and western blot analyses. Results showed that medium supplemented with 0.50 mg/L of selenium significantly (P < 0.05) promoted cell viability, upregulated toll-like receptor gene (TLR4), anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, TGFβ1), and expressions of blood-testis barrier proteins, and modulated expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ). Sertoli cells grown in culture medium supplemented with 0.25 mg/L of selenium significantly upregulated TLR4, IL-4, IL-10, TGFβ1, and blood-testis barrier proteins compared to the control group. Sodium selenite supplementation at 0.75 and 1.00 mg/L levels was cytotoxic and temporarily downregulated the expression of blood-testis barrier protein within 24 h after culture; however, commencing from 72 h post culture, increased cell viability and upregulation of expression of blood-testis barrier proteins were observed. In conclusion, the results of this study showed that selenium supplementation in the culture medium up to 0.50 mg/L concentration upregulates immune genes and blood-testis barrier constituent proteins of bovine Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- E O Adegoke
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Wang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Zhang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Guixue Zhang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Abstract
One approach to visualize internal structures of the testis is histological sectioning of the material. The use of testicular samples allows a detailed analysis of the structure of both seminiferous tubules and the interstitial space. It is worth noting that key role in the control of germ cell development is assigned to Sertoli cells. Thus, in this chapter the special reference is made on visualization of Sertoli cells in the seminiferous epithelium in which they create a specialized microenvironment to support the germ cell development through the formation of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). The use of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) allows a deeper insight into the BTB morphology, especially the organization of the basal ectoplasmic specialization (ES) and coexisting intercellular junctions.Equally important, immunohistochemistry (IHC) is an appropriate technique to detect the localization of various proteins in paraffin-embedded and fixed tissues, i.e. testicular samples. A proper fixation allows to stabilize structure of the seminiferous tubules and preserve cells against irreversible damage. As such localization of various junction proteins connecting adjoined Sertoli cells and present in germ cell-Sertoli cell interfaces is possible. Also immunofluorescence (IF) is helpful to detect the distribution and relative abundance of the junctional proteins, while immunocytochemistry (ICC) is a valuable technique to show a protein distribution within a single cell (e.g. in Sertoli cell culture).
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Anna Hejmej
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Kotula-Balak
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
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15
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Wen Q, Tang EI, Gao Y, Jesus TT, Chu DS, Lee WM, Wong CKC, Liu YX, Xiao X, Silvestrini B, Cheng CY. Signaling pathways regulating blood-tissue barriers - Lesson from the testis. Biochim Biophys Acta Biomembr 2017; 1860:141-153. [PMID: 28450047 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Signaling pathways that regulate blood-tissue barriers are important for studying the biology of various blood-tissue barriers. This information, if deciphered and better understood, will provide better therapeutic management of diseases particularly in organs that are sealed by the corresponding blood-tissue barriers from systemic circulation, such as the brain and the testis. These barriers block the access of antibiotics and/or chemotherapeutical agents across the corresponding barriers. Studies in the last decade using the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in rats have demonstrated the presence of several signaling pathways that are crucial to modulate BTB function. Herein, we critically evaluate these findings and provide hypothetical models regarding the underlying mechanisms by which these signaling molecules/pathways modulate BTB dynamics. This information should be carefully evaluated to examine their applicability in other tissue barriers which shall benefit future functional studies in the field. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Gap Junction Proteins edited by Jean Claude Herve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Wen
- The Mary M. Woldford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Elizabeth I Tang
- The Mary M. Woldford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Ying Gao
- The Mary M. Woldford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Tito T Jesus
- The Mary M. Woldford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Darren S Chu
- The Mary M. Woldford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Will M Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yi-Xun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang Xiao
- Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310013, Zhejiang, China
| | | | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Woldford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States.
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16
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Li N, Mruk DD, Lee WM, Wong CKC, Cheng CY. Is toxicant-induced Sertoli cell injury in vitro a useful model to study molecular mechanisms in spermatogenesis? Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 59:141-156. [PMID: 26779951 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells isolated from rodents or humans and cultured in vitro are known to establish a functional tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier that mimics the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in vivo. This model has been widely used by investigators to study the biology of the TJ and the BTB. Studies have shown that environmental toxicants (e.g., perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), bisphenol A (BPA) and cadmium) that exert their disruptive effects to induce Sertoli cell injury using this in vitro model are reproducible in studies in vivo. Thus, this in vitro system provides a convenient approach to probe the molecular mechanism(s) underlying toxicant-induced testis injury but also to provide new insights in understanding spermatogenesis, such as the biology of cell adhesion, BTB restructuring that supports preleptotene spermatocyte transport, and others. Herein, we provide a brief and critical review based on studies using this in vitro model of Sertoli cell cultures using primary cells isolated from rodent testes vs. humans to monitor environmental toxicant-mediated Sertoli cell injury. In short, recent findings have shown that environmental toxicants exert their effects on Sertoli cells to induce testis injury through their action on Sertoli cell actin- and/or microtubule-based cytoskeleton. These effects are mediated via their disruptive effects on actin- and/or microtubule-binding proteins. Sertoli cells also utilize differential spatiotemporal expression of these actin binding proteins to confer plasticity to the BTB to regulate germ cell transport across the BTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Li
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Dolores D Mruk
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Will M Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States.
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17
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Hirai S, Naito M, Kuramasu M, Ogawa Y, Terayama H, Qu N, Hatayama N, Hayashi S, Itoh M. Low-dose exposure to di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) increases susceptibility to testicular autoimmunity in mice. Reprod Biol 2015; 15:163-71. [PMID: 26370459 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2015.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [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: 12/02/2014] [Revised: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) induces spermatogenic disturbance (SD) through oxidative stress, and affects the immune system by acting as an adjuvant. Recently, we reported that in mice, a low dose of DEHP, which did not affect spermatogenesis, was able to alter the testicular immune microenvironment. Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) can be induced by repeated immunization with testicular antigens, and its pathology is characterized by production of autoantibodies and SD. In the present study, we investigated the effect of a low-dose DEHP on the susceptibility of mice to EAO. The exposure to DEHP-containing feed (0.01%) caused a modest functional damage to the blood-testis barrier (BTB) with an increase in testicular number of interferon gamma (IFN-γ)-positive cells and resulted in the production of autoantibodies targeting haploid cells, but did not affect spermatogenesis. While only single immunization with testicular antigens caused very mild EAO, the concurrent DEHP exposure induced severe EAO with significant increases in number of interferon gamma-positive cells and macrophages, as well as lymphocytic infiltration and serum autoantibody titer accompanied by severe SD. To summarize, the exposure of mice to the low-dose DEHP does not induce significant SD, but it may cause an increase in IFN-γ positive cells and modest functional damage to the BTB in the testis. These changes lead to an autoimmune response against haploid cell autoantigens, resulting in increased susceptibility to EAO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuichi Hirai
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Munekazu Naito
- Department of Anatomy, Aichi Medical University, Aichi, Japan
| | - Miyuki Kuramasu
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Ogawa
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hayato Terayama
- Department of Anatomy, Tokai University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Ning Qu
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Shogo Hayashi
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Itoh
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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18
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Rode K, Sieme H, Richterich P, Brehm R. Characterization of the equine blood-testis barrier during tubular development in normal and cryptorchid stallions. Theriogenology 2015; 84:763-72. [PMID: 26074069 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Revised: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The formation of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) is defined as occurring with the first appearance of spermatocytes at around puberty and is vital for normal spermatogenesis. This barrier between two adjacent Sertoli cells (SCs) consists of a cell junctional protein complex, which includes tight junctions (TJs), adherens junctions, and gap junctions. In many mammalian species, BTB composition has already been investigated, whereas little is known about the equine BTB. In the present study, immunohistochemistry and qualitative Western Blot analysis were used to assess the expression and distribution patterns of the junctional proteins claudin-11 (TJ), zonula occludens-1 (TJ associated), N-cadherin (adherens junctions), and connexin 43 (gap junctions) in equine testes during tubular development and in testes of stallions exhibiting unilateral cryptorchidism. Therefore, testes of 21 warmblood stallions (aged 12 months-11 years) were obtained during routine surgical castration. In the normal adult equine testis, the junctional proteins are localized at the basolateral region of the seminiferous tubules forming a circumferential seal corresponding to the known BTB localization. N-cadherin is additionally expressed along the lateral SC surface. In immature seminiferous cords still lacking a lumen, a diffuse distribution pattern of the junctional proteins throughout the SC cytoplasm is visible. As lumen formation advances, the immunolocalization shifts progressively toward the basolateral SC membranes. Additionally, apoptotic germ cells were detected and quantified in prepubertal stallions using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay and correlated with junctional protein localization. In the retained testis of cryptorchid stallions, which exhibit an aberrant testicular morphology, a deviating expression of the junctional proteins is visible. The present data show for the first time that (1) the equine SC junctional complex contains claudin-11, zonula occludens-1, N-Cadherin, and connexin 43, as already described for men or mice, and that (2) different distribution patterns of these proteins exist during testicular development in the context of lumen formation (lumen scores: 1-7) and in retained testes of unilateral cryptorchid stallions.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Rode
- Department of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - H Sieme
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine, Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - P Richterich
- Tierärztliche Klinik für Pferde auf Boyenstein, Beckum, Germany
| | - R Brehm
- Department of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany.
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19
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Kalachev AV. An ultrastructural study of testes permeability in sea urchins, Strongylocentrotus intermedius. Micron 2014; 68:66-69. [PMID: 25310892 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2014.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Revised: 09/18/2014] [Accepted: 09/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Permeability of testes in sea urchins, Strongylocentrotus intermedius, was investigated by using an electron-opaque tracer, lanthanum nitrate. This tracer is able to enter the basal compartment of germinative epithelium, where developing germ cells are located. However, its ability to penetrate the gonadal lumen was reduced. An incomplete permeability barrier between the basal compartment and the gonadal lumen is supposed to exist in testes of S. intermedius.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander V Kalachev
- A.V. Zhirmunsky Institute of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 17 Palchevskogo str., Vladivostok 690041, Russia.
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20
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Abstract
Mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) is an emerging regulator of blood-tissue barriers that utilizes ribosomal protein S6 (rpS6) as the downstream signaling molecule. To explore the role of rpS6 in blood-testis barrier (BTB) function, a constitutively active quadruple rpS6 phosphomimetic mutant was constructed in mammalian expression vector and overexpressed in Sertoli cells cultured in vitro that mimicked the BTB in vivo. Using this quadruple phosphomimetic mutant, phosphorylated (p)-rpS6 was shown to disrupt IGF-1/insulin signaling, thereby abolishing Akt phosphorylation, which led to an induction of MMP-9. This increase in MMP-9 secretion perturbed the Sertoli cell tight junction permeability barrier by proteolysis-mediated downregulation of tight junction proteins at the BTB. These findings were confirmed by the use of a specific MMP-9 inhibitor that blocked the disruption of the tight junction permeability barrier by the rpS6 mutant. Additionally, RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated Akt silencing was able to mimic the results of rpS6 mutant overexpression in Sertoli cells, further confirming this p-rpS6-Akt-MMP-9 signaling pathway. In conclusion, these data support a new concept of mTORC1-mediated BTB regulation, that is possibly also applicable to other blood-tissue barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka-Wai Mok
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Dolores D Mruk
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
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21
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Xiao X, Wong EWP, Lie PPY, Mruk DD, Wong CKC, Cheng CY. Cytokines, polarity proteins, and endosomal protein trafficking and signaling-the sertoli cell blood-testis barrier system in vitro as a study model. Methods Enzymol 2014; 534:181-94. [PMID: 24359954 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-397926-1.00010-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Endosomal signaling is emerging as one of the most important cellular events that regulate signaling function in mammalian cells or an epithelium in response to changes in environment such as the presence of stimuli mediated by cytokines, toxicants, heat, ions during growth and development, and other cellular processes such as cytokinesis and spermatogenesis. Recent studies have shown that protein endocytosis-the initial step of endosomal signaling-involves the participation of polarity proteins, such as partitioning defective protein 6 (Par6), Cdc42 and 14-3-3 (also known as Par5), which in turn is regulated by cytokines (e.g., TGF-β2, TGF-β3) and testosterone at the Sertoli cell blood-testis barrier (BTB) in the mammalian testis. In this short method paper, we provide a detailed protocol of assessing protein endocytosis, the initial and also the most critical step of endosomal signaling at the Sertoli cell BTB. This biochemical endocytosis assay summarizes our experience for the last decade, which should likely be performed in conjunction with the dual-labeled immunofluorescence analysis to assess protein endocytosis. While we are using a Sertoli cell in vitro system that mimics the BTB in vivo, this approach should be applicable to virtually all mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Xiao
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, USA; Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Elissa W P Wong
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, USA
| | - Pearl P Y Lie
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, USA
| | - Dolores D Mruk
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, USA
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, USA.
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22
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Wan HT, Mruk DD, Tang EI, Xiao X, Cheng YH, Wong EWP, Wong CKC, Cheng CY. Role of non-receptor protein tyrosine kinases in spermatid transport during spermatogenesis. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2014; 30:65-74. [PMID: 24727349 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2014] [Accepted: 04/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Non-receptor protein tyrosine kinases are cytoplasmic kinases that activate proteins by phosphorylating tyrosine residues, which in turn affect multiple functions in eukaryotic cells. Herein, we focus on the role of non-receptor protein tyrosine kinases, most notably, FAK, c-Yes and c-Src, in the transport of spermatids across the seminiferous epithelium during spermatogenesis. Since spermatids, which are formed from spermatocytes via meiosis, are immotile haploid cells, they must be transported by Sertoli cells across the seminiferous epithelium during the epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis. Without the timely transport of spermatids across the epithelium, the release of sperms at spermiation fails to occur, leading to infertility. Thus, the molecular event pertinent to spermatid transport is crucial to spermatogenesis. We provide a critical discussion based on recent findings in this review. We also provide a hypothetical model on spermatid transport, and the role of non-receptor protein tyrosine kinases in this event. We also highlight areas of research that deserve attention by investigators in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- H T Wan
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Dolores D Mruk
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Elizabeth I Tang
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Xiang Xiao
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Yan-Ho Cheng
- Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, NY 10301, United States
| | - Elissa W P Wong
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States.
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23
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Chang L, She R, Ma L, You H, Hu F, Wang T, Ding X, Guo Z, Soomro MH. Acute testicular toxicity induced by melamine alone or a mixture of melamine and cyanuric acid in mice. Reprod Toxicol 2014; 46:1-11. [PMID: 24607646 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2014.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2013] [Revised: 01/18/2014] [Accepted: 02/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Eight-week-old male Kunming mice were administered either melamine (MA, 30, 140, or 700 mg/kg/day), a melamine and cyanuric acid mixture (MC, each at 15, 70, or 350 mg/kg/day), or vehicle (control) for 3 consecutive days. Testicular toxicity was evaluated on days 1 and 5 after the final exposure. The testicular and epididymal weights and serum testosterone level were significantly decreased in the highest MC group (350 mg/kg/day). Histopathologically, both MA and MC caused obvious lesions in the testis and epididymis, with significant increases in sperm abnormalities. By TEM, the blood-testis barrier was damaged dose dependently. TUNEL staining showed that both MA and MC induced increases in germ cell apoptosis. The Sertoli cell vimentin was collapsed in the treated animals as detected by immunohistochemical staining and Western blotting. This study demonstrated that both MA and MC treatments could disrupt the blood-testis barrier and cause a clear testicular toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Chang
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology and Public Health, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agriculture University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Ruiping She
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology and Public Health, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agriculture University, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Longhuan Ma
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology and Public Health, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agriculture University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Hua You
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology and Public Health, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agriculture University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Fengjiao Hu
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology and Public Health, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agriculture University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Tongtong Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology and Public Health, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agriculture University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xiao Ding
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology and Public Health, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agriculture University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Zhaojie Guo
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology and Public Health, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agriculture University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Majid Hussain Soomro
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology and Public Health, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agriculture University, Beijing, PR China
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