1
|
de Oliveira CFA, Lara NDLEM, Cardoso BRL, de França LR, de Avelar GF. Correction to: Comparative testis structure and function in three representative mice strains. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 383:907-910. [PMID: 33386996 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03366-8] [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: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Felipe Alves de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, MG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Nathalia de Lima E Martins Lara
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, MG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Bárbara Ramalho Ladeira Cardoso
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, MG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luiz Renato de França
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, MG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Gleide Fernandes de Avelar
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, MG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xu D, Yoshino T, Konishi J, Yoshikawa H, Ino Y, Yazawa R, Dos Santos Nassif Lacerda SM, de França LR, Takeuchi Y. Germ cell-less hybrid fish: ideal recipient for spermatogonial transplantation for the rapid production of donor-derived sperm†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:492-500. [PMID: 31132090 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
An interspecific hybrid marine fish that developed a testis-like gonad without any germ cells, i.e., a germ cell-less gonad, was produced by hybridizing a female blue drum Nibea mitsukurii with a male white croaker Pennahia argentata. In this study, we evaluated the suitability of the germ cell-less fish as a recipient by transplanting donor testicular cells directly into the gonads through the urogenital papilla. The donor testicular cells were collected from hemizygous transgenic, green fluorescent protein (gfp) (+/-) blue drum, and transplanted into the germ cell-less gonads of the 6-month-old adult hybrid croakers. Fluorescent and histological observations showed the colonization, proliferation, and differentiation of transplanted spermatogonial cells in the gonads of hybrid croakers. The earliest production of spermatozoa in a hybrid recipient was observed at 7 weeks post-transplantation (pt), and 10% of the transplanted recipients produced donor-derived gfp-positive spermatozoa by 25 weeks pt. Sperm from the hybrid recipients were used to fertilize eggs from wild-type blue drums, and approximately 50% of the resulting offspring were gfp-positive, suggesting that all offspring originated from donor-derived sperm that were produced in the transplanted gfp (+/-) germ cells. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of successful spermatogonial transplantation using a germ cell-less adult fish as a recipient. This transplantation system has considerable advantages, such as the use of comparatively simple equipment and procedures, and rapid generation of donor-derived spermatogenesis and offspring, and presents numerous applications in commercial aquaculture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Xu
- Marine Fishery Institute of Zhejiang Province, Key Lab of Mariculture and Enhancement of Zhejiang Province, Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province, PR China.,Division of Fisheries Resource Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Kagoshima University, Shimoarata 4-50-20, Kagoshima City, Japan
| | - Tasuku Yoshino
- Department of Marine Bioscience, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 4-5-7 Konan, Minato, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junpei Konishi
- Department of Marine Bioscience, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 4-5-7 Konan, Minato, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yoshikawa
- Department of Applied Aquabiology, National Fisheries University, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, 2-7-1 Nagata-Honmachi, Shimonoseki, Japan
| | - Yasuko Ino
- Department of Applied Aquabiology, National Fisheries University, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, 2-7-1 Nagata-Honmachi, Shimonoseki, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Yazawa
- Department of Marine Bioscience, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 4-5-7 Konan, Minato, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Luiz Renato de França
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Yutaka Takeuchi
- Division of Fisheries Resource Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Kagoshima University, Shimoarata 4-50-20, Kagoshima City, Japan.,The United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Abstract
Besides having medical applications, comparative studies on reproductive biology are very useful, providing, for instance, essential knowledge for basic, conservation and biotechnological research. In order to maintain the reproductive potential and the survival of all vertebrate species, both sperm and steroid production need to occur inside the testis. From the approximately fifty thousand vertebrate species still alive, very few species are already investigated; however, our knowledge regarding Sertoli cell biology is quite good. In this regard, it is already known that since testis differentiation the Sertoli cells are the somatic cells in charge of supporting and orchestrating germ cells during development and full spermatogenesis in adult animals. In the present review, we highlight key aspects related to Sertoli cell biology in vertebrates and show that this key testis somatic cell presents huge and intrinsic plasticity, particularly when cystic (fish and amphibians) and non-cystic (reptiles, birds and mammals) spermatogenesis is compared. In particular, we briefly discuss the main aspects related to Sertoli cells functions, interactions with germ cells, Sertoli cells proliferation and efficiency, as well as those regarding spermatogonial stem cell niche regulation, which are crucial aspects responsible for the magnitude of sperm production. Most importantly, we show that we could greatly benefit from investigations using different vertebrate experimental models, mainly now that there is a big concern regarding the decline in human sperm counts caused by a multitude of factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Guilherme Mattos Jardim Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz Renato de França
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Figueiredo AFA, Wnuk NT, Tavares AO, Miranda JR, Hess RA, de França LR, Costa GMJ. Prepubertal PTU treatment in rat increases Sertoli cell number and sperm production. Reproduction 2020; 158:199-209. [PMID: 31163400 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The number of Sertoli cells (SCs) ultimately determines the upper limit of sperm production in the testis. Previous studies have shown that thyroid hormones (TH) receptors are abundantly expressed in developing SCs; therefore, it was highly significant to discover that transient neonatal hypothyroidism induced by the goitrogen 6-n-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) can extend SCs proliferation beyond the first 2 weeks postnatal and increase testis weight and sperm production. Further studies concluded that treatment must begin before day 8 post birth in rats. Recent studies, however, showed that SCs present in the transition region at the rete testis exhibit a more immature phenotype and have prolonged mitotic activity, which led to the hypothesis that SCs in this region will retain the capacity to respond to PTU treatment over a longer period of time. In the present study, male Wistar rats were treated with PTU from days 21 to 40 and were evaluated at 40 and 160 days of age. Similar to neonatal rat SCs, it was demonstrated that prepubertal SCs in the transition region have a high mitotic activity and are highly sensitive to TH levels. This delayed, transient hypothyroidism resulted in significantly increased testis weight, SCs number and daily sperm production. The results demonstrate for the first time that Sertoli cells showing plasticity in the transition region can be stimulated to increase proliferation and contribute to a late stage surge in testis weight and sperm output.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- André F A Figueiredo
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Natália Teixeira Wnuk
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Amanda O Tavares
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - José Rafael Miranda
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, Minas Gerais - UFLA, Brazil
| | - Rex A Hess
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Luiz Renato de França
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Guilherme M J Costa
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
|
6
|
Tonelli FMP, Lacerda SMSN, Tonelli FCP, Costa GMJ, de França LR, Resende RR. Progress and biotechnological prospects in fish transgenesis. Biotechnol Adv 2017; 35:832-844. [PMID: 28602961 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2017.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The history of transgenesis is marked by milestones such as the development of cellular transdifferentiation, recombinant DNA, genetic modification of target cells, and finally, the generation of simpler genetically modified organisms (e.g. bacteria and mice). The first transgenic fish was developed in 1984, and since then, continuing technological advancements to improve gene transfer have led to more rapid, accurate, and efficient generation of transgenic animals. Among the established methods are microinjection, electroporation, lipofection, viral vectors, and gene targeting. Here, we review the history of animal transgenesis, with an emphasis on fish, in conjunction with major developments in genetic engineering over the past few decades. Importantly, spermatogonial stem cell modification and transplantation are two common techniques capable of revolutionizing the generation of transgenic fish. Furthermore, we discuss recent progress and future biotechnological prospects of fish transgenesis, which has strong applications for the aquaculture industry. Indeed, some transgenic fish are already available in the current market, validating continued efforts to improve economically important species with biotechnological advancements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda M P Tonelli
- Laboratório de Sinalização Celular e Nanobiotecnologia, Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Instituto Nanocell, Divinópolis, MG, Brazil
| | - Samyra M S N Lacerda
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Flávia C P Tonelli
- Laboratório de Sinalização Celular e Nanobiotecnologia, Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Guilherme M J Costa
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luiz Renato de França
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia (INPA), Manaus, AM, Brazil.
| | - Rodrigo R Resende
- Laboratório de Sinalização Celular e Nanobiotecnologia, Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Instituto Nanocell, Divinópolis, MG, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Nóbrega RH, Morais RDVDS, Crespo D, de Waal PP, de França LR, Schulz RW, Bogerd J. Fsh Stimulates Spermatogonial Proliferation and Differentiation in Zebrafish via Igf3. Endocrinology 2015. [PMID: 26207345 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [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: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Growth factors modulate germ line stem cell self-renewal and differentiation behavior. We investigate the effects of Igf3, a fish-specific member of the igf family. Fsh increased in a steroid-independent manner the number and mitotic index of single type A undifferentiated spermatogonia and of clones of type A differentiating spermatogonia in adult zebrafish testis. All 4 igf gene family members in zebrafish are expressed in the testis but in tissue culture only igf3 transcript levels increased in response to recombinant zebrafish Fsh. This occurred in a cAMP/protein kinase A-dependent manner, in line with the results of studies on the igf3 gene promoter. Igf3 protein was detected in Sertoli cells. Recombinant zebrafish Igf3 increased the mitotic index of type A undifferentiated and type A differentiating spermatogonia and up-regulated the expression of genes related to spermatogonial differentiation and entry into meiosis, but Igf3 did not modulate testicular androgen release. An Igf receptor inhibitor blocked these effects of Igf3. Importantly, the Igf receptor inhibitor also blocked Fsh-induced spermatogonial proliferation. We conclude that Fsh stimulated Sertoli cell production of Igf3, which promoted via Igf receptor signaling spermatogonial proliferation and differentiation and their entry into meiosis. Because previous work showed that Fsh also released spermatogonia from an inhibitory signal by down-regulating anti-Müllerian hormone and by stimulating androgen production, we can now present a model, in which Fsh orchestrates the activity of stimulatory (Igf3, androgens) and inhibitory (anti-Müllerian hormone) signals to promote spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Henrique Nóbrega
- Department of Morphology (R.H.N.), Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University, 18618-970 Botucatu, Brazil; Reproductive Biology Group (R.H.N., R.D.V.d.S.M., D.C., P.P.d.W., R.W.S., J.B.), Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Cellular Biology (L.R.d.F.), Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Roberto Daltro Vidal de Souza Morais
- Department of Morphology (R.H.N.), Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University, 18618-970 Botucatu, Brazil; Reproductive Biology Group (R.H.N., R.D.V.d.S.M., D.C., P.P.d.W., R.W.S., J.B.), Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Cellular Biology (L.R.d.F.), Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Diego Crespo
- Department of Morphology (R.H.N.), Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University, 18618-970 Botucatu, Brazil; Reproductive Biology Group (R.H.N., R.D.V.d.S.M., D.C., P.P.d.W., R.W.S., J.B.), Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Cellular Biology (L.R.d.F.), Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Paul P de Waal
- Department of Morphology (R.H.N.), Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University, 18618-970 Botucatu, Brazil; Reproductive Biology Group (R.H.N., R.D.V.d.S.M., D.C., P.P.d.W., R.W.S., J.B.), Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Cellular Biology (L.R.d.F.), Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luiz Renato de França
- Department of Morphology (R.H.N.), Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University, 18618-970 Botucatu, Brazil; Reproductive Biology Group (R.H.N., R.D.V.d.S.M., D.C., P.P.d.W., R.W.S., J.B.), Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Cellular Biology (L.R.d.F.), Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Rüdiger W Schulz
- Department of Morphology (R.H.N.), Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University, 18618-970 Botucatu, Brazil; Reproductive Biology Group (R.H.N., R.D.V.d.S.M., D.C., P.P.d.W., R.W.S., J.B.), Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Cellular Biology (L.R.d.F.), Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Jan Bogerd
- Department of Morphology (R.H.N.), Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University, 18618-970 Botucatu, Brazil; Reproductive Biology Group (R.H.N., R.D.V.d.S.M., D.C., P.P.d.W., R.W.S., J.B.), Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; and Laboratory of Cellular Biology (L.R.d.F.), Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Melo MC, van Dijk P, Andersson E, Nilsen TO, Fjelldal PG, Male R, Nijenhuis W, Bogerd J, de França LR, Taranger GL, Schulz RW. Androgens directly stimulate spermatogonial differentiation in juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2015; 211:52-61. [PMID: 25435279 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [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: 09/12/2014] [Revised: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
We studied the effects of androgens on early stages of spermatogenesis along with androgen receptor binding characteristics and the expression of selected testicular and pituitary genes. To this end, immature Atlantic salmon postsmolts received testosterone (T), adrenosterone (OA, which is converted in vivo into 11-ketotestosterone, 11-KT) or a combination of the two androgens (T+OA). Treatment with OA and T elevated the plasma levels of 11-KT and T, respectively, and co-injection of OA with T lead to high 11-KT levels but prevented plasma T levels to reach the levels observed after injecting T alone. Clear stimulatory effects were recorded as regards pituitary lhb and gnrhr4 transcript levels in fish receiving T, and to a lesser extent in fish receiving OA (but for the lhb transcript only). The two androgen receptors (Ara1 and Ara2) we cloned bound T and 11-KT and responded to these androgens in a similar way. Both androgens down-regulated testicular amh and increased igf3 transcript levels after 1 week of treatment, but effects on growth factor gene expression required sustained androgen stimulation and faded out in the groups with the decreasing T plasma levels. In fish exhibiting a sustained elevation of 11-KT plasma levels (OA and T+OA groups) for 2 weeks, the number of differentiating spermatogonia had increased while the number of undifferentiated spermatogonia decreased. Previous work showed that circulating gonadotropin levels did not increase following androgen treatments of gonad-intact immature male salmonids. Taken together, androgen treatment of immature males modulated testicular growth factor expression that, when sustained for 2 weeks, stimulated differentiation, but not self-renewal, of undifferentiated type A spermatogonia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle C Melo
- Federal University of Minas Gerais, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Utrecht University, Science Faculty, Department Biology, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Petra van Dijk
- Utrecht University, Science Faculty, Department Biology, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Andersson
- Institute of Marine Research, PO Box 1870 Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Tom Ole Nilsen
- University of Bergen, Postboks 7800, 5020 Bergen, Norway; Uni Research, Thormøhlens Gate 55, 5008 Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Rune Male
- University of Bergen, Postboks 7800, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Wouter Nijenhuis
- Utrecht University, Science Faculty, Department Biology, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Bogerd
- Utrecht University, Science Faculty, Department Biology, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Luiz Renato de França
- Federal University of Minas Gerais, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Rüdiger W Schulz
- Utrecht University, Science Faculty, Department Biology, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Although present at relatively low number in the testis, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are crucial for the establishment and maintenance of spermatogenesis in eukaryotes and, until recently, those cells were investigated in fish using morphological criteria. The isolation and characterization of these cells in fish have been so far limited by the lack of specific molecular markers, hampering the high SSCs biotechnological potential for aquaculture. However, some highly conserved vertebrate molecular markers, such as Gfra1 and Pou5f1/Oct4, are now available representing important candidates for studies evaluating the regulation of SSCs in fish and even functional investigations using germ cells transplantation. A technique already used to demonstrate that, different from mammals, fish germ stem cells (spermatogonia and oogonia) present high sexual plasticity that is determined by the somatic microenvironment. As relatively well established in mammals, and demonstrated in zebrafish and dogfish, this somatic environment is very important for the preferential location and regulation of SSCs. Importantly, a long-term in vitro culture system for SSCs has been now established for some fish species. Therefore, besides the aforementioned possibilities, such culture system would allow the development of strategies to in vitro investigate key regulatory and functional aspects of germline stem cells (ex: self-renewal and/or differentiation) or to amplify SSCs of rare, endangered, or commercially valuable fish species, representing an important tool for transgenesis and the development of new biotechnologies in fish production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Guilherme Mattos Jardim Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Luiz Renato de França
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Campos-Junior PHA, Costa GMJ, Avelar GF, Lacerda SMSN, da Costa NN, Ohashi OM, Miranda MDS, Barcelos LS, Jorge EC, Guimarães DA, de França LR. Derivation of sperm from xenografted testis cells and tissues of the peccary (Tayassu tajacu). Reproduction 2014; 147:291-9. [PMID: 24324205 DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Because the collared peccary (Tayassu tajacu) has a peculiar Leydig cell cytoarchitecture, this species represents a unique mammalian model for investigating testis function. Taking advantage of the well-established and very useful testis xenograft technique, in the present study, testis tissue and testis cell suspensions from immature collared peccaries (n=4; 3 months old) were xenografted in SCID mice (n=48) and evaluated at 2, 4, 6, and 8 months after grafting. Complete spermatogenesis was observed at 6 and 8 months after testis tissue xenografting. However, probably due to de novo testis morphogenesis and low androgen secretion, functionally evaluated by the seminal vesicle weight, a delay in spermatogenesis progression was observed in the testis cell suspension xenografts, with the production of fertile sperm only at 8 months after grafting. Importantly, demonstrating that the peculiar testicular cytoarchitecture of the collared peccary is intrinsically programmed, the unique Leydig cell arrangement observed in this species was re-established after de novo testis morphogenesis. The sperm collected from the xenografts resulted in diploid embryos that expressed the paternally imprinted gene NNAT after ICSI. The present study is the first to demonstrate complete spermatogenesis with the production of fertile sperm from testis cell suspension xenografts in a wild mammalian species. Therefore, due to its unique testicular cytoarchitecture, xenograft techniques, particularly testis cell suspensions, may represent a new and very promising approach to evaluate testis morphogenesis and to investigate spermatogonial stem cell physiology and niche in the collared peccary.
Collapse
|
11
|
Sousa AL, Campos-Junior PHA, Costa GMJ, de França LR. Spermatogenic Cycle Length and Sperm Production in the Freshwater Turtle Kinosternon scorpioides1. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:35. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.112391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
|
12
|
Santos Nassif Lacerda SM, Costa GMJ, da Silva MDA, Campos-Junior PHA, Segatelli TM, Peixoto MTD, Resende RR, de França LR. Phenotypic characterization and in vitro propagation and transplantation of the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) spermatogonial stem cells. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 192:95-106. [PMID: 23792279 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2013] [Revised: 06/05/2013] [Accepted: 06/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In association with in vitro culture and transplantation, isolation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) is an excellent approach for investigating spermatogonial physiology in vertebrates. However, in fish, the lack of SSC molecular markers represents a great limitation to identify/purify these cells, rendering it difficult to apply several valuable biotechnologies in fish-farming. Herein, we describe potential molecular markers, which served to phenotypically characterize, cultivate and transplant Nile tilapia SSCs. Immunolocalization revealed that Gfra1 is expressed exclusively in single type A undifferentiated spermatogonia (Aund, presumptive SSCs). Likewise, the expression of Nanos2 protein was observed in Aund cells. However, Nanos2-positive spermatogonia have also been identified in cysts with two to eight germ cells that encompass type A differentiated spermatogonia (Adiff). Moreover, we also established effective primary culture conditions that allowed the Nile tilapia spermatogonia to expand their population for at least one month while conserving their original undifferentiated (stemness) characteristics. The maintenance of Aund spermatogonial phenotype was demonstrated by the expression of early germ cell specific markers and, more convincingly, by their ability to colonize and develop in the busulfan-treated adult Nile tilapia recipient testes after germ cell transplantation. In addition to advancing our knowledge on the identity and physiology of fish SSCs, these findings provide the first step in establishing a system that will allow fish SSCs expansion in vitro, representing an important progress towards the development of new biotechnologies in aquaculture, including the possibility of producing transgenic fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samyra Maria Santos Nassif Lacerda
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Campos-Junior PHA, Costa GMJ, de Avelar GF, Segatelli TM, Lacerda SMSN, Aponte PM, de França LR. Morphometric evaluation of the spermatogonial stem cell distribution and niche in vertebrates. Methods Mol Biol 2013; 1035:35-42. [PMID: 23959980 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-62703-508-8_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Morphometry is a classical quantitative method often used in biology to provide a data basis for functional interpretations/interactions of a particular organ or system. Herein we took advantage of this valuable approach to evaluate the spermatogonial stem cell niche using the horse testis and immunocytochemical localization of GFRA1 [glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor receptor produced by Sertoli cells)] as an example. Using the NIH ImageJ free software, we describe in detail all the necessary steps to investigate this specific and crucial microenvironment. Based on several recently published papers from our research group, this approach has proved to be fast, simple, and adaptable to a wide range of species and has the potential to be easily reproducible in different laboratories.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Henrique Almeida Campos-Junior
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Nóbrega RH, Greebe CD, van de Kant H, Bogerd J, de França LR, Schulz RW. Spermatogonial stem cell niche and spermatogonial stem cell transplantation in zebrafish. PLoS One 2010; 5. [PMID: 20862221 PMCID: PMC2942835 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0012808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2010] [Accepted: 08/20/2010] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the foundation of spermatogenesis, and reside within a specific microenvironment in the testes called "niche" which regulates stem cell properties, such as, self-renewal, pluripotency, quiescence and their ability to differentiate. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Here, we introduce zebrafish as a new model for the study of SSCs in vertebrates. Using 5'-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU), we identified long term BrdU-retaining germ cells, type A undifferentiated spermatogonia as putative stem cells in zebrafish testes. Similar to rodents, these cells were preferentially located near the interstitium, suggesting that the SSC niche is related to interstitial elements and might be conserved across vertebrates. This localization was also confirmed by analyzing the topographical distribution of type A undifferentiated spermatogonia in normal, vasa::egfp and fli::egfp zebrafish testes. In the latter one, the topographical arrangement suggested that the vasculature is important for the SSC niche, perhaps as a supplier of nutrients, oxygen and/or signaling molecules. We also developed an SSC transplantation technique for both male and female recipients as an assay to evaluate the presence, biological activity, and plasticity of the SSC candidates in zebrafish. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE We demonstrated donor-derived spermato- and oogenesis in male and female recipients, respectively, indicating the stemness of type A undifferentiated spermatogonia and their plasticity when placed into an environment different from their original niche. Similar to other vertebrates, the transplantation efficiency was low. This might be attributed to the testicular microenvironment created after busulfan depletion in the recipients, which may have caused an imbalance between factors regulating self-renewal or differentiation of the transplanted SSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Henrique Nóbrega
- Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Caaj Douwe Greebe
- Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Henk van de Kant
- Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Bogerd
- Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Luiz Renato de França
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- * E-mail: (LRdF); (RWS)
| | - Rüdiger W. Schulz
- Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Research Group Reproduction and Growth in Fish, Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway
- * E-mail: (LRdF); (RWS)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Auharek SA, de França LR. Postnatal testis development, Sertoli cell proliferation and number of different spermatogonial types in C57BL/6J mice made transiently hypo- and hyperthyroidic during the neonatal period. J Anat 2010; 216:577-88. [PMID: 20525087 PMCID: PMC2871994 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2010.01219.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [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] [Accepted: 02/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of thyroid hormones in testis structure and function has been fairly well studied in laboratory rodents. However, there are no comprehensive data in the literature for mice regarding the effects of transiently induced neonatal hypo- and hyperthyroidism on testis and spermatogonial cell development from birth to adulthood. Our goals were to evaluate the effects of propylthiouracil (PTU) and triidothyronine (T3) on Sertoli cell proliferation/differentiation and to correlate these events with the evolution of the spermatogenic process, tubular lumen formation, blood vessel volume density, and size and number of different spermatogonial types. Although Sertoli cell maturation was accelerated or delayed, respectively, in T3- and PTU-treated mice, the pace of the germ cell maturation was only slightly altered before puberty and the period of Sertoli cell proliferation was apparently not affected by the treatments. However, compared with controls, the total number of Sertoli cells per testis from 10 days of age to adulthood was significantly increased and decreased in PTU- and T3-treated mice, respectively. In comparison to all other spermatogonia, type A(2) was the largest cell in all ages and groups investigated. The PTU-treated mice had a significantly increased total number of undifferentiated spermatogonia as well as volume and percentage of vessels/capillaries, probably due to the higher number of Sertoli cells, particularly at 10 days of age. Taken together, our results suggest that neonatal hypothyroidism may be a valuable tool for studying spermatogonial biology as well as a means for providing more spermatogonial stem cells that could potentially be used for spermatogonial transplantation, thereby optimizing the efficiency of this technique when young mice are used as donors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Alves Auharek
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a developmental process during which a small number of diploid spermatogonial stem cells produce a large number of highly differentiated spermatozoa carrying a haploid, recombined genome. We characterise morphologically the different germ cell stages with particular attention for the spermatogonial generations, including the stem cells and their specific capacity to colonise a recipient's testis after transplantation. We propose a nomenclature for fish germ cells to improve the comparability among different teleost fish but also to higher vertebrates. Survival and development of germ cells depends on their continuous and close contact to Sertoli cells, and we review their multiple roles in the cystic mode of spermatogenesis seen in fish. We then discuss gene expression patterns associated with testis maturation. The endocrine system of vertebrates has evolved as master control system over spermatogenesis. In fish, both pituitary gonadotropins LH and FSH stimulate gonadal sex steroid hormone production directly by activating Leydig cells. Information is reviewed on the effects of progestin, androgens, and estrogens on global testicular gene expression patterns (microarray analysis), and on the molecular mechanisms by which steroids regulate specific candidate genes (identified by subtractive hybridization approaches) during early stages of testis maturation. Moreover, progestin and androgen effects on spermiation and milt hydration are discussed. Sex steroids mainly act via receptors expressed by Sertoli cells. One type of response is that Sertoli cells change growth factor expression, which subsequently modulates germ cell proliferation/differentiation via mechanisms yet to be characterised. Finally, we review data on germ cell autonomous processes, mainly derived from loss-of-function mutant fish lines, before identifying a number of focus areas for future research activities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rüdiger W Schulz
- Utrecht University, Science Faculty, Department Biology, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Alvarenga ÉRD, França LRD. Effects of Different Temperatures on Testis Structure and Function, with Emphasis on Somatic Cells, in Sexually Mature Nile Tilapias (Oreochromis niloticus)1. Biol Reprod 2009; 80:537-44. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.072827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
|
18
|
De Gendt K, Atanassova N, Tan KAL, de França LR, Parreira GG, McKinnell C, Sharpe RM, Saunders PTK, Mason JI, Hartung S, Ivell R, Denolet E, Verhoeven G. Development and function of the adult generation of Leydig cells in mice with Sertoli cell-selective or total ablation of the androgen receptor. Endocrinology 2005; 146:4117-26. [PMID: 15919750 DOI: 10.1210/en.2005-0300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [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: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
It is established that androgens and unidentified Sertoli cell (SC)-derived factors can influence the development of adult Leydig cells (LC) in rodents, but the mechanisms are unclear. We evaluated adult LC development and function in SC-selective androgen receptor (AR) knockout (SCARKO) and complete AR knockout (ARKO) mice. In controls, LC number increased 26-fold and LC size increased by approximately 2-fold between 12 and 140 d of age. LC number in SCARKOs was normal on d 12, but was reduced by more than 40% at later ages, although LC were larger and contained more lipid droplets and mitochondria than control LC by adulthood. ARKO LC number was reduced by up to 83% at all ages compared with controls, and LC size did not increase beyond d 12. Serum LH and testosterone levels and seminal vesicle weights were comparable in adult SCARKOs and controls, whereas LH levels were elevated 8-fold in ARKOs, although testosterone levels appeared normal. Immunohistochemistry and quantitative PCR for LC-specific markers indicated steroidogenic function per LC was probably increased in SCARKOs and reduced in ARKOs. In SCARKOs, insulin-like factor-3 and estrogen sulfotransferase (EST) mRNA expression were unchanged and increased 3-fold, respectively, compared with controls, whereas the expression of both was reduced more than 90% in ARKOs. Changes in EST expression, coupled with reduced platelet-derived growth factor-A expression, are potential causes of altered LC number and function in SCARKOs. These results show that loss of androgen action on SC has major consequences for LC development, and this could be mediated indirectly via platelet-derived growth factor-A and/or estrogens/EST.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karel De Gendt
- Laboratory for Experimental Medicine and Endocrinology, Department of Developmental Biology, Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|