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Lu T, Mortimer M, Li F, Li Z, Chen L, Li M, Guo LH. Putative adverse outcome pathways of the male reproductive toxicity derived from toxicological studies of perfluoroalkyl acids. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 873:162439. [PMID: 36848992 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Adverse outcome pathway (AOP) as a conceptual framework is a powerful tool in the field of toxicology to connect seemingly discrete events at different levels of biological organizations into an organized pathway from molecular interactions to whole organism toxicity. Based on numerous toxicological studies, eight AOPs for reproductive toxicity have been endorsed by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Task Force on Hazard Assessment. We have conducted a literature survey on the mechanistic studies on male reproductive toxicity of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), a class of global environmental contaminants with high persistence, bioaccumulation and toxicity. Using the AOP development strategy, five new AOPs for male reproductive toxicity were proposed here, namely (1) changes in membrane permeability leading to reduced sperm motility, (2) disruption of mitochondrial function leading to sperm apoptosis, (3) decreased gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) expression in hypothalamus leading to reduced testosterone production in male rats, (4) activation of the p38 signaling pathway leading to disruption of BTB in mice, (5) inhibition of p-FAK-Tyr407 activity leading to the destruction of BTB. The molecular initiating events in the proposed AOPs are different from those in the endorsed AOPs, which are either receptor activation or enzyme inhibition. Although some of the AOPs are still incomplete, they can serve as a building block upon which full AOPs can be developed and applied to not only PFAAs but also other chemical toxicants with male reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingyu Lu
- College of Life Science, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Monika Mortimer
- Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Fangfang Li
- Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Zhi Li
- College of Life Science, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Lu Chen
- College of Life Science, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Minjie Li
- College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Liang-Hong Guo
- Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
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Kumar GG, Kilari EK, Nelli G, Salleh N. Oral administration of Turnera diffusa willd. ex Schult. extract ameliorates steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis impairment in the testes of rats with type-2 diabetes mellitus. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 314:116638. [PMID: 37187362 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. (T. diffusa) has traditionally been used to treat male reproductive dysfunction and have aphrodisiac properties. AIMS OF THE STUDY This study aims to investigate the ability of T. diffusa to ameliorate the impairment in testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in DM that might help to improve testicular function, and subsequently restore male fertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS DM-induced adult male rats were given 100 mg/kg/day and 200 mg/kg/day T. diffusa leaf extract orally for 28 consecutive days. Rats were then sacrificed; sperm and testes were harvested and sperm parameter analysis were performed. Histo-morphological changes in the testes were observed. Biochemical assays were performed to measure testosterone and testicular oxidative stress levels. Immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence were used to monitor oxidative stress and inflammation levels in testes as well as Sertoli and steroidogenic marker proteins' expression. RESULTS Treatment with T. diffusa restores sperm count, motility, and viability near normal and reduces sperm morphological abnormalities and sperm DNA fragmentation in diabetic rats. T. diffusa treatment also reduces testicular NOX-2 and lipid peroxidation levels, increases testicular antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx) activities, ameliorates testicular inflammation via downregulating NF-ΚB, p-Ikkβ and TNF-α and upregulating IκBα expression. In diabetic rats, T. diffusa treatment increases testicular steroidogenic proteins (StAR, CYP11A1, SHBG, and ARA54, 3 and 17β-HSD) and plasma testosterone levels. Furthermore, in diabetic rats treated with T. diffusa, Sertoli cell marker proteins including Connexin 43, N-cadherin, and occludin levels in the testes were elevated. CONCLUSION T. diffusa treatment could help to ameliorate the detrimental effects of DM on the testes, thus this plant has potential to be used to restore male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gowri Gopa Kumar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Eswar Kumar Kilari
- Pharmacology Division, A.U. College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, 530 003, India
| | - Giribabu Nelli
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Naguib Salleh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Huang S, Zhang L, Luo J, Wu D, Ma K, Chen Y, Ma S, Feng L, Li F, Liu D, Deng J, Tan C. Cysteamine and N-Acetyl-cysteine Alleviate Placental Oxidative Stress and Barrier Function Damage Induced by Deoxynivalenol. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:6846-6858. [PMID: 37122089 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c00399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Sows are highly sensitive to deoxynivalenol (DON) and susceptible to reproductive toxicity caused by oxidative stress, but the potential mechanisms and effective interventions remain unclear. Here, we investigated the role of two antioxidants (cysteamine and N-acetyl-cysteine) in regulating the reproductive performance, redox status, and placental barrier function of sows and their potential mechanisms under DON exposure. Maternal dietary supply of antioxidants from day 85 of gestation to parturition reduced the incidence of stillbirths and low-birth-weight piglets under DON exposure. Moreover, the alleviation of DON-induced reproductive toxicity by dietary antioxidants was associated with the alleviation of placental oxidative stress, the enhancement of the placental barrier, and the vascular function of sows. Furthermore, in vivo and in vitro vascularized placental barrier modeling further demonstrated that antioxidants could reverse both DON transport across the placenta and DON-induced increase of placental barrier permeability. The molecular mechanism of antioxidant resistance to DON toxicity may be related to the signal transducer and activator of the transcription-3-occludin/zonula occludens-1 signaling pathway. Collectively, these results demonstrate the potential of antioxidants to protect the mother from DON-induced reproductive toxicity by alleviating placental oxidative stress and enhancing the placental barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangbo Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Longmiao Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jinxi Luo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Deyuan Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Kaidi Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yiling Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Shuo Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Li Feng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Fuyong Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Dingfa Liu
- Guangdong Foodstuffs IMP&EXP (Group) Corp, Guangzhou 510100, China
| | - Jinping Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Chengquan Tan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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Goktepe O, Onder GO, Cetindag E, Bitgen N, Cengiz Mat O, Alisan Suna P, Tufan E, Yalcın B, Baran M, Öz Gergin Ö, Yay A. The effect of different doses of nonylphenol on the blood-testicular barrier integrity, hormone level, and DNA damage in the testes of rats. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 177:113816. [PMID: 37164249 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Determining the molecular characteristics of the damage caused by NP exposure in the testis is very important for understanding the source of the damage and developing treatment methods accordingly. Therefore, in this study, it is aimed to evaluate the toxic effects that different doses of NP may cause in the testis, including blood-testicular barrier integrity and sperm DNA damage. For this purpose, 50 adult male Wistar albino rats were used in the study. Low, medium, and high-dose NP groups and the corn oil group were formed. After NP administration at determined doses for 15 days, the testis tissue taken under anesthesia was fixed in formaldehyde. Paraffin blocks were embedded using the routine histological tissue follow-up method. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed by taking 5 μm thick sections from paraffin blocks. The other testicular tissue was taken for the Western blot, Elisa, and comet methods, and the findings of sperm DNA analysis and the blood-testicular barrier were examined. NP caused the seminiferous epithelium to be disorganized and have significantly fewer cells in the testes of rats in different dose NP-induced groups. Compared with the control group, mTOR, Cx43, SCF, and HSP70 protein levels were decreased, while the expression of MMP-9 levels was increased in the different NP dose groups. Furthermore, tissue testosterone and inhibin B levels and SF-1 immunoreactivity intensity gradually decreased depending on the dose increase of NP. DNA damage of testicular tissues were increased in NP groups depending on NP dose. These results suggest that it is evident that NP, a commonly used industrial chemical, is an endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC) with estrogenic activity exerting adverse effects on health and that urgent measures are needed regarding the use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozge Goktepe
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey; Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Gozde Ozge Onder
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey; Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Emre Cetindag
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ömer Halisdemir University, Faculty of Medicine, Niğde, Turkey.
| | - Nazmiye Bitgen
- Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey; Department of Medical Biology, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Ozge Cengiz Mat
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Pınar Alisan Suna
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Emre Tufan
- Department of Biophysics, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Betul Yalcın
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Adıyaman University, Faculty of Medicine, 02040, Adıyaman, Turkey.
| | - Munevver Baran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Basic Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Özlem Öz Gergin
- Department of Surgical Medicine Science, Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Arzu Yay
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey; Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
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Haider S, Beristain AG. Human organoid systems in modeling reproductive tissue development, function, and disease. Hum Reprod 2023:7147082. [PMID: 37119533 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Research focused on human reproductive biology has primarily relied upon clinical samples affording mainly descriptive studies with limited implementation of functional or mechanistic understanding. More importantly, restricted access to human embryonic material has necessitated the use of animals, primarily rats and mice, and short-term primary cell cultures derived from human patient material. While reproductive developmental processes are generally conserved across mammals, specific features unique to human reproduction have resulted in the development of human-based in vitro systems designed to retain or recapitulate key molecular and cellular processes important in humans. Of note, major advances in 3D epithelial stem cell-based systems modeling human reproductive organ development have been made. These cultures, broadly referred to as organoids, enable research aimed at understanding cellular hierarchies and processes controlling cellular differentiation and function. Moreover, organoids allow the pre-clinical testing of pharmacological substances, both from safety and efficacy standpoints, and hold large potential in driving aspects of personalized medicine that were previously not possible with traditional models. In this mini-review, we focus on summarizing the current state of regenerative organoid culture systems of the female and male reproductive tracts that model organ development, maintenance, and function. Specifically, we will introduce stem cell-based organoid models of the ovary/fallopian tube, endometrium, cervix, prostate gland, and testes. We will also describe organoid systems of the pre-implanting blastocyst and trophoblast, as the blastocyst and its extraembryonic trophectoderm are central to fetal, maternal, and overall pregnancy health. We describe the foundational studies leading to their development and outline the utility as well as specific limitations that are unique and common to many of these in vitro platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Haider
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander G Beristain
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Gao P, Zhuang J, Chen H, Fang Z, Zheng J, Zhu D, Hou J. 5-Aminolevulinic acid combined with ferrous iron ameliorates scrotal heat stress-induced spermatogenic damage by enhancing HO-1 expression. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:4999-5011. [PMID: 37086299 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08462-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore whether 5-Aminolevulinic acid combined with ferrous iron (5-ALA/Fe2+) could protect testicular tissues damage of mice subjected to heat stress (HS) and provide its underlying mechanisms. METHODS 5-ALA/Fe2+ was administered intragastrically to mice for 10 days, then exposed to a scrotal heat stress at 43°C for 20 min on third day. Testes were harvested for morphologic and histopathological examination, oxidative stress, apoptosis, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and inflammation detection. The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathway in testis and CD4+FoxP3+regulatory T (Treg) cells in spleen were also investigated. RESULTS Compared to control group, the testis weight decreased and histological damage severed in HS group. Besides, HS also increased the oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation in testis. However, these indicators were ameliorated after 5-ALA/Fe2+ treatment but deteriorated after receiving ZnPPIX. The expression of HO-1 was increased both in HS group and 5-ALA/Fe2+ group. The protein expression levels of MAPK proteins were activated by HS and inhibited by 5-ALA/Fe2+. The CD4+FoxP3+ Treg generation was reduced by HS and increased by 5-ALA/Fe2+. CONCLUSION In this study, we have demonstrated that 5-ALA/Fe2+ ameliorated the spermatogenic damage induced by scrotal heat stress via up-regulating the expression of HO-1 and inhibiting MAPK mediated oxidative stress and apoptosis and inducing CD4+Foxp3+ Tregs to inhibit the inflammation induced by HS in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Gao
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Jingming Zhuang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Haoran Chen
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Zujun Fang
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Daqian Zhu
- National Children's Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Jiangang Hou
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
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Gareev K, Tagaeva R, Bobkov D, Yudintceva N, Goncharova D, Combs SE, Ten A, Samochernych K, Shevtsov M. Passing of Nanocarriers across the Histohematic Barriers: Current Approaches for Tumor Theranostics. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:1140. [PMID: 37049234 PMCID: PMC10096980 DOI: 10.3390/nano13071140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Over the past several decades, nanocarriers have demonstrated diagnostic and therapeutic (i.e., theranostic) potencies in translational oncology, and some agents have been further translated into clinical trials. However, the practical application of nanoparticle-based medicine in living organisms is limited by physiological barriers (blood-tissue barriers), which significantly hampers the transport of nanoparticles from the blood into the tumor tissue. This review focuses on several approaches that facilitate the translocation of nanoparticles across blood-tissue barriers (BTBs) to efficiently accumulate in the tumor. To overcome the challenge of BTBs, several methods have been proposed, including the functionalization of particle surfaces with cell-penetrating peptides (e.g., TAT, SynB1, penetratin, R8, RGD, angiopep-2), which increases the passing of particles across tissue barriers. Another promising strategy could be based either on the application of various chemical agents (e.g., efflux pump inhibitors, disruptors of tight junctions, etc.) or physical methods (e.g., magnetic field, electroporation, photoacoustic cavitation, etc.), which have been shown to further increase the permeability of barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil Gareev
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 194064 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Department of Micro and Nanoelectronics, Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University “LETI”, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ruslana Tagaeva
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 194064 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Personalized Medicine Centre, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 2 Akkuratova Str., 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Danila Bobkov
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 194064 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Personalized Medicine Centre, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 2 Akkuratova Str., 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Natalia Yudintceva
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 194064 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Personalized Medicine Centre, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 2 Akkuratova Str., 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Daria Goncharova
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 194064 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Personalized Medicine Centre, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 2 Akkuratova Str., 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Stephanie E. Combs
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technishe Universität München (TUM), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Artem Ten
- Institute of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Far Eastern Federal University, 690922 Vladivostok, Russia
| | - Konstantin Samochernych
- Personalized Medicine Centre, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 2 Akkuratova Str., 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Maxim Shevtsov
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 194064 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Personalized Medicine Centre, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 2 Akkuratova Str., 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technishe Universität München (TUM), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Institute of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Far Eastern Federal University, 690922 Vladivostok, Russia
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Cabral ERM, Pacanhella MF, Lengert AVH, dos Reis MB, Leal LF, de Lima MA, da Silva ALV, Pinto IA, Reis RM, Pinto MT, Cárcano FM. Somatic mutation detection and KRAS amplification in testicular germ cell tumors. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1133363. [PMID: 37007070 PMCID: PMC10060882 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1133363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular Germ Cell Tumors (TGCT) are the most common cancer among young adult men. The TGCT histopathology is diverse, and the frequency of genomic alterations, along with their prognostic role, remains largely unexplored. Herein, we evaluate the mutation profile of a 15-driver gene panel and copy number variation of KRAS in a large series of TGCT from a single reference cancer center. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cohort of 97 patients with TGCT, diagnosed at the Barretos Cancer Hospital, was evaluated. Real-time PCR was used to assess copy number variation (CNV) of the KRAS gene in 51 cases, and the mutation analysis was performed using the TruSight Tumor 15 (Illumina) panel (TST15) in 65 patients. Univariate analysis was used to compare sample categories in relation to mutational frequencies. Survival analysis was conducted by the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. RESULTS KRAS copy number gain was a very frequent event (80.4%) in TGCT and presented a worse prognosis compared with the group with no KRAS copy gain (10y-OS, 90% vs. 81.5%, p = 0.048). Among the 65 TGCT cases, different variants were identified in 11 of 15 genes of the panel, and the TP53 gene was the most recurrently mutated driver gene (27.7%). Variants were also detected in genes such as KIT, KRAS, PDGFRA, EGFR, BRAF, RET, NRAS, PIK3CA, MET, and ERBB2, with some of them potentially targetable. CONCLUSION Although larger studies incorporating collaborative networks may shed the light on the molecular landscape of TGCT, our findings unveal the potential of actionable variants in clinical management for applying targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andre V. H. Lengert
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, Brazil
| | - Mariana B. dos Reis
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, Brazil
| | - Leticia F. Leal
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, Brazil
- Barretos School of Health Sciences Dr. Paulo Prata – FACISB, Barretos, Brazil
| | - Marcos A. de Lima
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, Brazil
| | | | - Icaro A. Pinto
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, Brazil
| | - Rui M. Reis
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, Brazil
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), Medical School, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- 3ICVS/3B’s-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Mariana T. Pinto
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, Brazil
| | - Flavio M. Cárcano
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, Brazil
- Division of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, Oncoclínicas, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Rouge M, Drouault M, Hanoux V, Delalande C, Bouraïma-Lelong H. Ex vivo effects of 17β-estradiol on the prepubertal rat testis. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 118:108363. [PMID: 36931579 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Although it is well established that testis produces estrogens, their precise effect is not fully documented, particularly during the prepubertal period. In a previous in vivo study, we demonstrated that an exposure of prepubertal rats (15-30 days post-partum (dpp)) to 17β-estradiol (E2) delays the establishment of spermatogenesis. In order to characterize the mechanisms of action and the direct targets of E2 on the immature testis, we developed an organotypic culture model of testicular explants obtained from prepubertal rats (15, 20 and 25 dpp). To determine the involvement of nuclear estrogen receptors (ERs) in the effect of E2, particularly that of ESR1 which is the major ER expressed in the prepubertal testis, a pre-treatment with the full antagonist of this type of ERs (ICI 182.780) was performed. Histological analyses, gene expression studies and hormonal assays were conducted to investigate the effects of E2 on steroidogenesis- and spermatogenesis-related endpoints. Testicular explants from 15 dpp rats were unresponsive to E2 exposure while E2 effects were observed in those obtained from 20 and 25 dpp rats. An E2 exposure of testicular explants obtained from 20 dpp rats seemed to accelerate the establishment of spermatogenesis, whereas an E2 exposure of 25 dpp testicular explants induced a delay of this process. These effects could be related to the E2-induced modulation of steroidogenesis, and involved both ESR1-dependent and -independent mechanisms of action. Overall, this ex vivo study demonstrated differential age- and concentration-related effects of E2 on the testis during the prepubertal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Rouge
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, OeReCa, 14000 Caen, France
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Zhang Z, Cheng J, Yang L, Li X, Hua R, Xu D, Jiang Z, Li Q. The role of ferroptosis mediated by Bmal1/Nrf2 in nicotine -induce injury of BTB integrity. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 200:26-35. [PMID: 36893944 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Nicotine has shown the toxic effects on male reproductive system, and testicular damage is associated with ferroptosis, which is a non-apoptotic regulated cell death driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. However, the role of nicotine on ferroptosis of testicular cells is largely elusive. In the present study, we showed that nicotine destroyed blood-testis barrier (BTB) by interfering with the circadian rhythm of BTB-related factors (ZO-1, N-Cad, Occludin and CX-43) and induced ferroptosis, as reflected via increased clock-control levels of lipid peroxide and decreased ferritin and GPX4, which involved in the circadian. Inhibition of ferroptosis with Fer-1 alleviated nicotine-induced injury of BTB and impaired sperm in vivo. Mechanically, we uncover that the core molecular clock protein, Bmal1, regulates the expression of Nrf2 via direct E-box binding to its promoter to regulate its activity, and nicotine decreases the transcription of Nrf2 through Bmal1 and inactivates Nrf2 pathway and its downstream antioxidant gene, which leads to the imbalance of redox state and ROS accumulation. Intriguingly, nicotine induced lipid peroxidation and subsequent ferroptosis by Bmal1-mediated Nrf2. In conclusion, our study reveals a clear role for the molecular clock in controlling Nrf2 in testis to mediate the ferroptosis induced by nicotine. These findings provide a potential mechanism to prevent smoking and/or cigarette smoke-induced male reproductive injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zelin Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Jianyong Cheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Li Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Xiaoya Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Rongmao Hua
- College of Pharmacy, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518118, PR China
| | - Dejun Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqin, 400715, PR China
| | - Zhongliang Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China.
| | - Qingwang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China.
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Zhao T, Shen L, Ye X, Bai G, Liao C, Chen Z, Peng T, Li X, Kang X, An G. Prenatal and postnatal exposure to polystyrene microplastics induces testis developmental disorder and affects male fertility in mice. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 445:130544. [PMID: 36493639 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) can threaten human health, especially male fertility. However, most existing studies have focused on the adulthood stage of male reproduction toxicity caused by relatively short-term PS-MP exposure. This study aimed to investigate the toxic effect of PS-MPs on testicular development and reproductive function upon prenatal and postnatal exposure. Pregnant mice and their offspring were exposed to 0, 0.5 mg/L, 5 mg/L, and 50 mg/L PS-MPs through their daily drinking water from gestational day 1 to postnatal day (PND) 35 or PND70. We found that PS-MP exposure induced testis development disorder by PND35 and spermatogenesis dysfunction by PND70. By combining RNA sequencing results and bioinformatics analysis, the hormone-mediated signaling pathway, G1/S transition of the mitotic cell cycle, coregulation of androgen receptor activity, and Hippo signaling pathway were shown to be involved in testis development on PND35. The meiotic cell cycle, regulation of the immune effector process, neutrophil degranulation, and inflammation mediated by chemokine and cytokine signaling pathways were associated with disturbed spermatogenesis on PND70. These findings show that prenatal and postnatal exposure to PS-MPs resulted in testis development disorder and male subfertility, which may be regulated by the Hippo signaling pathway and involve an immune reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianxin Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Department of Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lianju Shen
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gaochen Bai
- Department of Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chen Liao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhicong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tianwen Peng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaomin Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangjin Kang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Geng An
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Meng LQ, Zhang LY, Xu WZ. Paxillin is a potential prognostic biomarker associated with immune cell infiltration in ovarian cancer. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14095. [PMID: 36923874 PMCID: PMC10009461 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the expression, prognosis, and underlying mechanism of Paxillin (PXN) in ovarian cancer. Materials and methods By comprehensive use of various bioinformatics tools, we analyzed the expression of PXN and its prognostic value in ovarian cancer. Then, the enrichment analyses were conducted to determine the possible regulatory pathways PXN involved in ovarian cancer. Finally, the associations of PXN expression with immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoints were analyzed. Results PXN was highly expressed in ovarian cancer and its expression could independently predict the overall survival of ovarian cancer patients. More importantly, PXN had a superior ability in predicting long-term survival than age and tumor residual disease in ovarian cancer patients. In addition, PXN was positively related to adherens junction and tight junction pathways. Significant negative relationships between PXN expression and immune infiltrates were observed, however, PXN was positively connected with immune checkpoint (VSIR) in ovarian cancer. Conclusions PXN serves as a reliable prognostic biomarker and may be a potent therapeutic target for ovarian cancer. Moreover, high PXN expression may affect ovarian cancer progression via positive regulation of metastasis-related pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Qun Meng
- Operating Room, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ling-Yan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wen-Zhi Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, China
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Wu W, Hu Y, Zhang Q, Xu Y, Su W. TNFα stimulates the proliferation of immature Sertoli cells by attenuating UPS-degradation of cyclin D1 and leads to the delay of BTB maturation in pubertal rats. Andrology 2023; 11:575-590. [PMID: 36354278 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS The Sertoli cell that plays a vital role during spermatogenesis is a known target of physiological and pathological factors affecting testicular development. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) participates in the blood-testis barrier reconstruction, cell apoptosis, and inflammatory response by recognizing receptors on Sertoli cell. TNFα has also been shown to induce the proliferation of immature Sertoli cell in vitro, yet the mechanism still remains unclarified. OBJECTIVES This study was designed to investigate the effect of TNFα on blood-testis barrier development during puberty and the underlying mechanisms of TNFα-induced immature Sertoli cell proliferation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Immature male Sprague-Dawley rats of postnatal day 12 were intraperitoneally injected with TNFα. Biotin-labeled method was used to detect permeability of the developing blood-testis barrier after TNFα treatment, and the distribution of occludin and junctional adhesion molecule-A (JAM-A) were detected by immunofluorescence. Sertoli cells isolated from Sprague-Dawley rats of postnatal day 10 were cultured in vitro and treated with TNFα. Cell proliferation rate was reflected by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay. Immunoblot and quantitative polymerase chain reaction were used to detect the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, Fbxo4, and cyclin D1. Immunoprecipitation was used to detect the ubiquitination of cyclin D1 and the interaction between Fbxo4 and cyclin D1. Ammonium pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate (PDTC) was applied to detect the effect of nuclear factor kappaB (NFκB) activity inhibition on TNFα-induced Sertoli cell proliferation. The adenoviral recombinant plasmid containing rat Fbxo4 gene was constructed to investigate the effect of Fbxo4 overexpression on Sertoli cell proliferation promoted by TNFα. RESULTS The in vivo experiment revealed a significant delay of blood-testis barrier maturation in pubertal rats caused by exogenous TNFα. TNFα (10 ng/ml) treatment in vitro was found to promote the proliferation of immature Sertoli cells, accompanied with increased NFκB activity and cyclin D1 protein level. The level of Fbxo4 and ubiquitination of cyclin D1 were decreased after TNFα treatment. Inhibitor of NFκB or overexpression of Fbxo4 could both reverse the TNFα-induced proliferation of immature Sertoli cells, meanwhile restore the ubiquitin-proteasome system-dependent degradation of cyclin D1. Overexpression of Fbxo4 could not affect the activation of NFκB caused by TNFα. CONCLUSION These results indicate that TNFα inhibits the ubiquitination and degradation of cyclin D1 through the NFκB pathway, thereby promoting the proliferation of immature Sertoli cell in vitro and inducing the delay of blood-testis barrier maturation in pubertal rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixing Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.,National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Wenhui Su
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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Zhang Y, Qi J, Zhao J, Li M, Zhang Y, Hu H, Wei L, Zhou K, Qin H, Qu P, Cao W, Liu E. Effect of Dietetic Obesity on Testicular Transcriptome in Cynomolgus Monkeys. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14030557. [PMID: 36980830 PMCID: PMC10048326 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a metabolic disorder resulting from behavioral, environmental and heritable causes, and can have a negative impact on male reproduction. There have been few experiments in mice, rats, and rabbits on the effects of obesity on reproduction, which has inhibited the development of better treatments for male subfertility caused by obesity. Nonhuman primates are most similar to human beings in anatomy, physiology, metabolism, and biochemistry and are appropriate subjects for obesity studies. In this investigation, we conducted a transcriptome analysis of the testes of cynomolgus monkeys on high-fat, high-fructose, and cholesterol-rich diets to determine the effect of obesity on gene expression in testes. The results showed that the testes of obese monkeys had abnormal morphology, and their testes transcriptome was significantly different from that of non-obese animals. We identified 507 differentially abundant genes (adjusted p value < 0.01, log2 [FC] > 2) including 163 up-regulated and 344 down-regulated genes. Among the differentially abundant genes were ten regulatory genes, including IRF1, IRF6, HERC5, HERC6, IFIH1, IFIT2, IFIT5, IFI35, RSAD2, and UBQLNL. Gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analysis was conducted, and we found that processes and pathways associated with the blood testes barrier (BTB), immunity, inflammation, and DNA methylation in gametes were preferentially enriched. We also found abnormal expression of genes related to infertility (TDRD5, CLCN2, MORC1, RFX8, SOHLH1, IL2RB, MCIDAS, ZPBP, NFIA, PTPN11, TSC22D3, MAPK6, PLCB1, DCUN1D1, LPIN1, and GATM) and down-regulation of testosterone in monkeys with dietetic obesity. This work not only provides an important reference for research and treatment on male infertility caused by obesity, but also valuable insights into the effects of diet on gene expression in testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanru Zhang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Jia Qi
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Juan Zhao
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi’an 710061, China
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Miaojing Li
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Yulin Zhang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Huizhong Hu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Liangliang Wei
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Kai Zhou
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Hongyu Qin
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Pengxiang Qu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Wenbin Cao
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education of China, Xi’an 710049, China
- Correspondence: (W.C.); (E.L.)
| | - Enqi Liu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi’an 710061, China
- Correspondence: (W.C.); (E.L.)
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65
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Liu Y, Liu Y, Chen G, Wang H. Epigenetic programming of TBX2/CX43 mediates lower sperm quality in male offspring induced by prenatal dexamethasone exposure. Toxicol Sci 2023; 192:kfad016. [PMID: 36790081 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Decreased sperm quality is the main cause of male infertility. Studies have found that prenatal dexamethasone exposure (PDE) decreases sperm quality in male offspring after birth, but the mechanism is unclear. Wistar pregnant rats were subcutaneously injected with 0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 mg/kg.d dexamethasone at gestational day 9-20. The testes and sperm of first-generation (F1) offspring were collected, and F1 offspring were mated with wild-type female rats to obtain F2. Compared with the control group, F1 offspring in PDE group had lower sperm count and motility after birth, and the deformity rate increased. F2 fetal rats' body length and weight decreased, and the intrauterine growth retardation rate increased. Meanwhile, PDE decreased the expression of connexin 43 (CX43) in offspring testes, while T-box transcription factor 2 (TBX2) promoter region histone 3 lysine 9 acetylation (H3K9ac) level and its expression were increased. Traced back to F1 fetus testes, PDE increased the expression of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and P300, activated GR protein into the nucleus, and made GR act on the TBX2 promoter region. Further, a series of Sertoli cell interventions confirmed that dexamethasone promoted GR to recruit P300, increased the H3K9ac level of TBX2 promoter region and its expression, and inhibited the expression of CX43. This study confirmed that PDE decreased sperm quality of male offspring, which is related to the epigenetic programming of TBX2/CX43 in the Sertoli cells, provided a theoretical and experimental basis for guiding the rational use of drugs during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Guanghui Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
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Dirven Y, Eide DM, Henriksson EW, Hjorth R, Sharma AK, Graupner A, Brunborg G, Ballangby J, Boisen AMZ, Swedmark S, Gützkow KB, Olsen AK. Assessing testicular germ cell DNA damage in the comet assay; introduction of a proof-of-concept. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2023; 64:88-104. [PMID: 36629742 DOI: 10.1002/em.22527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The in vivo comet assay is widely used to measure genotoxicity; however, the current OECD test guideline (TG 489) does not recommend using the assay to assess testicular germ cells, due to the presence of testicular somatic cells. An adapted approach to specifically assess testicular germ cells within the comet assay is certainly warranted, considering regulatory needs for germ cell-specific genotoxicity data in relation to the increasing global production of and exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals. Here, we provide a proof-of-concept to selectively analyze round spermatids and primary spermatocytes, distinguishing them from other cells of the testicle. Utilizing the comet assay recordings of DNA content (total fluorescence intensity) and DNA damage (% tail intensity) of individual comets, we developed a framework to distinguish testicular cell populations based on differences in DNA content/ploidy and appearance. Haploid round spermatid comets are identified through (1) visual inspection of DNA content distributions, (2) setting DNA content thresholds, and (3) modeling DNA content distributions using a normal mixture distribution function. We also describe an approach to distinguish primary spermatocytes during comet scoring, based on their high DNA content and large physical size. Our concept allows both somatic and germ cells to be analyzed in the same animal, adding a versatile, sensitive, rapid, and resource-efficient assay to the limited genotoxicity assessment toolbox for germ cells. An adaptation of TG 489 facilitates accumulation of valuable information regarding distribution of substances to germ cells and their potential for inducing germ cell gene mutations and structural chromosomal aberrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvette Dirven
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity (CERAD, Centre of Excellence of the Norwegian Research Council), Oslo, Norway
| | - Dag Markus Eide
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity (CERAD, Centre of Excellence of the Norwegian Research Council), Oslo, Norway
| | - Erika Witasp Henriksson
- Swedish Chemicals Agency, Department of Development of Legislation and Other Instruments, Unit of Proposals for Classification and Restriction, Sundbyberg, Sweden
- Swedish Chemicals Agency, Department of Development of Legislation and Other Instruments, Unit of Evaluation of Substances, Sundbyberg, Sweden
| | - Rune Hjorth
- The Danish Environmental Protection Agency, Odense, Denmark
| | - Anoop Kumar Sharma
- Technical University of Denmark, National Food Institute, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Anne Graupner
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity (CERAD, Centre of Excellence of the Norwegian Research Council), Oslo, Norway
| | - Gunnar Brunborg
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity (CERAD, Centre of Excellence of the Norwegian Research Council), Oslo, Norway
| | - Jarle Ballangby
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity (CERAD, Centre of Excellence of the Norwegian Research Council), Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Stellan Swedmark
- Swedish Chemicals Agency, Department of Development of Legislation and Other Instruments, Unit of Evaluation of Substances, Sundbyberg, Sweden
| | - Kristine Bjerve Gützkow
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity (CERAD, Centre of Excellence of the Norwegian Research Council), Oslo, Norway
| | - Ann-Karin Olsen
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity (CERAD, Centre of Excellence of the Norwegian Research Council), Oslo, Norway
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Zhao Y, Zhang H, Cui JG, Wang JX, Chen MS, Wang HR, Li XN, Li JL. Ferroptosis is critical for phthalates driving the blood-testis barrier dysfunction via targeting transferrin receptor. Redox Biol 2023; 59:102584. [PMID: 36580806 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The global rate of human male infertility is rising at an alarming rate owing to environmental and lifestyle changes. Phthalates are the most hazardous chemical additives in plastics and have an apparently negative impact on the function of male reproductive system. Ferroptosis is a recently described form of iron-dependent cell death and has been linked to several diseases. Transferrin receptor (TfRC), a specific ferroptosis marker, is a universal iron importer for all cells using extracellular transferrin. We aim to investigate the potential involvement of ferroptosis during male reproductive toxicity, and provide means for drawing conclusions on the effect of ferroptosis in phthalates-induced male reproductive disease. In this study, we found that di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) triggered blood-testis barrier (BTB) dysfunction in the mouse testicular tissues. DEHP also induced mitochondrial morphological changes and lipid peroxidation, which are manifestations of ferroptosis. As the primary metabolite of DEHP, mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) induced ferroptosis by inhibiting glutathione defense network and increasing lipid peroxidation. TfRC knockdown blocked MEHP-induced ferroptosis by decreasing mitochondrial and intracellular levels of Fe2+. Our findings indicate that TfRC can regulate Sertoli cell ferroptosis and therefore is a novel therapeutic molecule for reproductive disorders in male patients with infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Hao Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Jia-Gen Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Jia-Xin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Ming-Shan Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Hao-Ran Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Xue-Nan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Jin-Long Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China.
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68
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Zhang Z, Wen R, Zhang W, Ge N, Bo J. Efficacy and mechanism of lipoic acid in the treatment of reproductive injury caused by perfluorooctanoic acid. Exp Ther Med 2023; 25:116. [PMID: 36815965 PMCID: PMC9934001 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.11815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Environmental pollutants, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), cause severe reproductive damage to humans and animals. Lipoic acid (LA) is a strong antioxidant that alleviates the oxidative damage caused by heavy metals, environmental toxicants, chemical poisons, etc. Therefore, the present study investigated the curative effect and mechanism of LA in treating spermatogenesis dysfunction caused by PFOA. A rat reproductive injury model was established by gavage of PFOA for consecutive 30 days and then rats were treated with different doses of LA for 42 days. The effects were assessed by ELISA, western blotting, H&E staining and immunofluorescence staining. The results demonstrated that LA had ameliorating effects on PFOA-induced reproductive injury in rats, it increased the sperm counts, and the levels of serum succinate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase returned to normal levels following LA treatment. In addition, LA promoted the expression of estradiol, reduced the expression of serum sex hormones, such as follicle-stimulating hormone, androgen receptor (AR) and malondialdehyde in the testes, and restored the structure of seminiferous tubules. Its therapeutic mechanisms include regulating the testicular oxidative stress pathway and hypothalamic-pituitary-testis axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyan Zhang
- Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 014010, P.R. China
| | - Rong Wen
- Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 014010, P.R. China
| | - Wenlong Zhang
- Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 014010, P.R. China
| | - Na Ge
- School of Public Health, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 014010, P.R. China
| | - Jinwei Bo
- Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 014010, P.R. China,Correspondence to: Professor Jinwei Bo, Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, 41 Linyin Road, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 014010, P.R. China
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Xia Y, Hao L, Li Y, Li Y, Chen J, Li L, Han X, Liu Y, Wang X, Li D. Embryonic 6:2 FTOH exposure causes reproductive toxicity by disrupting the formation of the blood-testis barrier in offspring mice. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 250:114497. [PMID: 36608565 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have revealed nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, subchronic developmental and reproductive toxicity in rats exposed to fluorotelomer alcohol (FTOH). However, the effects of embryonic 6:2 FTOH exposure on the reproductive system of offspring mice remain unclear. The purpose of this study is to explore the reproductive toxic effects of embryonic 6:2 FTOH exposure on offspring male mice and the related molecular mechanisms. Therefore, the pregnant mice were given corn oil or 6:2 FTOH by gavage from gestational days 12.5-21.5. The results demonstrated that embryonic 6:2 FTOH exposure resulted in disrupted testicular structure, low expression of tight junction protein between Sertoli cells (SCs), impaired blood-testis barrier (BTB) formation and maturation, reduced sperm viability and increased malformation, and induced testicular inflammation in the offspring of mice. Further in vitro studies showed that 6:2 FTOH treatment upregulated MMP-8 expression by activating AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway, which in turn enhanced occludin cleavage leading to the disruption of SCs barrier integrity. In summary, this study demonstrated that 6:2 FTOH exposure caused reproductive dysfunction in male offspring through disruption of BTB, which provided new insights into the effects of 6:2 FTOH exposure on the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhui Xia
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Lanxiang Hao
- Endocrinology Department, Yancheng First Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School; The First people's Hospital of Yancheng, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224001, China
| | - Yueyang Li
- Institute of Advanced Synthesis, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211816, China
| | - Yifan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Junhan Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Lei Li
- Endocrinology Department, Yancheng First Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School; The First people's Hospital of Yancheng, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224001, China
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Yanmei Liu
- Endocrinology Department, Yancheng First Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School; The First people's Hospital of Yancheng, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224001, China.
| | - Xiaojian Wang
- Institute of Advanced Synthesis, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211816, China.
| | - Dongmei Li
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China.
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Jiyarom B, Giannakopoulos S, Strange DP, Panova N, Gale M, Verma S. RIG-I and MDA5 are modulated by bone morphogenetic protein (BMP6) and are essential for restricting Zika virus infection in human Sertoli cells. Front Microbiol 2023; 13:1062499. [PMID: 36713156 PMCID: PMC9878278 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1062499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual transmission of Zika virus (ZIKV) is associated with virus persistence in the testes and shedding in the seminal fluid for months after recovery. We previously demonstrated that ZIKV can establish long-term replication without causing cytotoxicity in human Sertoli cells (SC), responsible for maintaining the immune privileged compartment of seminiferous tubules. Functional gene expression analyses also predicted activation of multiple virus sensing pathways including TLR3, RIG-I, and MDA5. Here, we elucidated which of the RNA virus sensing receptors play a decisive role in restricting ZIKV replication. We show that both poly I:C and IFN-β treatment induced a robust antiviral state and reduced ZIKV replication significantly, suggesting that virus sensing and antiviral signaling are functional in SC. Silencing of TLR3, 7, and 9 did not affect virus replication kinetics; however, both RIG-I and MDA5 played a synergistic role in inducing an anti-ZIKV response. Further, the impact of SC-specific immunosuppressive pathways that collectively regulate SC function, specifically the TGF-β superfamily members, TGF-β, Activin A, and BMP6, on ZIKV replication was investigated. While ZIKV did not modulate the expression of TGF-β and Activin A, BMP6 signaling was suppressed at later stages of infection. Notably, treatment with BMP6 increased IFN-β, p-IRF3, and p-STAT1 levels, and expression of key interferon-stimulated genes including MDA5, suggesting that BMP6 enhances antiviral response in SC. Collectively, this study further delineates the key role of the RIG-I-like receptors in sensing ZIKV in SC, and reveals a novel role of BMP6 in modulating innate immune and antiviral response in the testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boonyanudh Jiyarom
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology, and Pharmacology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Stefanos Giannakopoulos
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Daniel P. Strange
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology, and Pharmacology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Nataliya Panova
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Michael Gale
- Department of Immunology, Center for Innate Immunity and Immune Disease, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Saguna Verma
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology, and Pharmacology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, United States,*Correspondence: Saguna Verma, ✉
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Lactoferrin Restores the Deoxynivalenol-Impaired Spermatogenesis and Blood-Testis Barrier Integrity via Improving the Antioxidant Capacity and Modifying the Cell Adhesion and Inflammatory Response. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12010152. [PMID: 36671014 PMCID: PMC9855165 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12010152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Deoxynivalenol (DON) is among the most prevalent contaminants in cereal crops and has been demonstrated to impair male spermatogenesis and induce oxidative stress, testicular apoptosis, and disruption of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). Lactoferrin (LF) is an iron-binding glycoprotein with multifunctions including anti-inflammation and antioxidation. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of LF on the spermatogenesis and integrity of the BTB in DON-exposed mice. Thirty-two male mice were allotted to four groups for a 35-day feeding period: vehicle (basal diet), DON (12 mg/kg), LF (10 mg/d, p.o.), and DON + LF. The results showed that DON induced vacuolization of the spermatogenic epithelium, broke the adhesion junction between Sertoli cells and spermatids established by N-cadherin and induced testicular oxidative stress. LF administration restored sperm production, attenuated the DON-induced oxidative stress and reduced the breakages in adhesion junction. DON exposure enhanced the protein expression of occludin. Transcriptional profiling of the testis observed a disturbance in the expression profiles of cell adhesion and inflammatory response genes, and LF administration reversed these gene expressions. Furthermore, down-regulated signaling pathways, including the apical junction, TNFα signaling via NF-κB, and TGF-β in the DON group were observed. These were restored by LF. Enrichment analysis between DON + LF group and vehicle also confirmed the absence of these pathways. These findings indicated that LF eliminated the DON-induced detriment to spermatogenesis and cell connections between Sertoli cells and spermatids via improving antioxidant capacity and modifying the inflammatory response and cell adhesion genes.
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CXADR: From an Essential Structural Component to a Vital Signaling Mediator in Spermatogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021288. [PMID: 36674801 PMCID: PMC9865082 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Canonical coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CXADR) is a transmembrane component of cell junctions that is crucial for cardiac and testicular functions via its homophilic and heterophilic interaction. CXADR is expressed in both Sertoli cells and germ cells and is localized mainly at the interface between Sertoli-Sertoli cells and Sertoli-germ cells. Knockout of CXADR in mouse Sertoli cells specifically impairs male reproductive functions, including a compromised blood-testis barrier, apoptosis of germ cells, and premature loss of spermatids. Apart from serving as an important component for cell junctions, recent progress has showed the potential roles of CXADR as a signaling mediator in spermatogenesis. This review summarizes current research progress related to the regulation and role of CXADR in spermatogenesis as well as in pathological conditions. We hope this review provides some future directions and a blueprint to promote the further study on the roles of CXADR.
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Ma K, Chen N, Wang H, Li Q, Shi H, Su M, Zhang Y, Ma Y, Li T. The regulatory role of BMP4 in testicular Sertoli cells of Tibetan sheep. J Anim Sci 2023; 101:skac393. [PMID: 36440761 PMCID: PMC9838805 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the regulatory mechanism of bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) gene in the testes of Tibetan sheep and its role in the blood-testis barrier (BTB). First, we cloned BMP4 gene for bioinformatics analysis, and detected the mRNA and protein expression levels of BMP4 in the testes of Tibetan sheep pre-puberty (3-mo-old), during sexual maturity (1-yr-old), and in adulthood (3-yr-old) by qRT-PCR and Western blot. In addition, the subcellular localization of BMP4 was analyzed by immunohistochemical staining. Next, BMP4 overexpression and silencing vectors were constructed and transfected into primary Sertoli cells (SCs) to promote and inhibit the proliferation of BMP4, respectively. Then, CCK-8 was used to detect the proliferation effect of SCs. The expression of BMP4 and downstream genes, pathway receptors, tight junction-related proteins, and cell proliferation and apoptosis-related genes in SCs were studied using qRT-PCR and Western blot. The results revealed that the relative expression of BMP4 mRNA and protein in testicular tissues of 1Y group and 3Y group was dramatically higher than that of 3M group (P < 0.01), and BMP4 protein is mainly located in SCs and Leydig cells at different development stages. The CDS region of the Tibetan sheep BMP4 gene was 1,229 bp. CCK-8 results demonstrated that the proliferation rate of BMP4 was significantly increased in the overexpression group (pc-DNA-3.1(+)-BMP4; P < 0.05). In addition, the mRNA and protein expressions of SMAD5, BMPR1A, and BMPR1B and tight junction-related proteins Claudin11, Occludin, and ZO1 were significantly increased (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression of cell proliferation-related gene Bcl2 was significantly enhanced (P < 0.05), and the expression of GDNF was enhanced (P > 0.05). The mRNA expression of apoptosis-related genes Caspase3 and Bax decreased significantly (P < 0.05), while the mRNA expression of cell cycle-related genes CyclinA2 and CDK2 increased significantly (P < 0.05). It is worth noting that the opposite results were observed after transfection with si-BMP4. In summary, what should be clear from the results reported here is that BMP4 affects testicular development by regulating the Sertoli cells and BTB, thereby modulating the spermatogenesis of Tibetan sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keyan Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Nana Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Huihui Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Qiao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Huibin Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Manchun Su
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Youji Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Taotao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
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Zhou XY, Ma JN, Shen YY, Xie XR, Ren W. Effects of Growth Hormone on Adult Human Gonads: Action on Reproduction and Sexual Function. Int J Endocrinol 2023; 2023:7492696. [PMID: 37064267 PMCID: PMC10104746 DOI: 10.1155/2023/7492696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth hormone (GH), which is commonly considered to be a promoter of growth and development, has direct and indirect effects on adult gonads that influence reproduction and sexual function of humans and nonhumans. GH receptors are expressed in adult gonads in some species including humans. For males, GH can improve the sensitivity of gonadotropins, contribute to testicular steroidogenesis, influence spermatogenesis possibly, and regulate erectile function. For females, GH can modulate ovarian steroidogenesis and ovarian angiogenesis, promote the development of ovarian cells, enhance the metabolism and proliferation of endometrial cells, and ameliorate female sexual function. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is the main mediator of GH. In vivo, a number of the physiological effects of GH are mediated by GH-induced hepatic IGF-1 and local IGF-1. In this review, we highlight the roles of GH and IGF-1 in adult human gonads, clarify potential mechanisms, and explore the efficacy and the risk of GH supplementation in associated deficiency and assisted reproductive technologies. Besides, the effects of excess GH on adult human gonads are discussed as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yi Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jia-Ni Ma
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Ya-Yin Shen
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xue-Rui Xie
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Wei Ren
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
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Corpuz-Hilsabeck M, Culty M. Impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals and pharmaceuticals on Sertoli cell development and functions. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1095894. [PMID: 36793282 PMCID: PMC9922725 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1095894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells play essential roles in male reproduction, from supporting fetal testis development to nurturing male germ cells from fetal life to adulthood. Dysregulating Sertoli cell functions can have lifelong adverse effects by jeopardizing early processes such as testis organogenesis, and long-lasting processes such as spermatogenesis. Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is recognized as contributing to the rising incidence of male reproductive disorders and decreasing sperm counts and quality in humans. Some drugs also act as endocrine disruptors by exerting off-target effects on endocrine tissues. However, the mechanisms of toxicity of these compounds on male reproduction at doses compatible with human exposure are still not fully resolved, especially in the case of mixtures, which remain understudied. This review presents first an overview of the mechanisms regulating Sertoli cell development, maintenance, and functions, and then surveys what is known on the impact of EDCs and drugs on immature Sertoli cells, including individual compounds and mixtures, and pinpointing at knowledge gaps. Performing more studies on the impact of mixtures of EDCs and drugs at all ages is crucial to fully understand the adverse outcomes these chemicals may induce on the reproductive system.
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Damayanti IP, Susilaningsih N, Nugroho T, Suhartono S, Suryono S, Susanto H, Suwondo A, Mahati E. The Effect of Curcumin Nanoparticles on Paracetamol-induced Liver Injury in Male Wistar Rats. Pharm Nanotechnol 2023; 11:493-503. [PMID: 37264664 DOI: 10.2174/2211738511666230601105536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Curcumin is a naturally occurring compound that has antioxidant properties, acts as a hepatoprotective, and lowers lipid peroxidation. However, curcumin's low solubility and bioavailability are its primary drawbacks and prevent its use as a therapeutic agent. In this study, curcumin nanoparticles will be created using the ultrasonic-assisted extraction method, and their effectiveness against paracetamol-induced changes in ALT, AST, SOD, MDA, and TNF-α will be compared to that of pure curcumin. PURPOSE This study aimed to determine the hepatoprotective effect of curcumin nanoparticles in paracetamol- induced rats as a model for liver injury. METHODS Thirty-six male Wistar rats, aged 6 to 8 weeks, with a minimum weight of 120 grams, were used in an experimental laboratory investigation with a post-test-only group design. Rats in each group received 100 mg/kgBW pure curcumin, 100 mg/kgBW curcumin nanoparticles, and 50 mg/kgBW curcumin nanoparticles for 7 days before paracetamol induction. On day 8, 300 mg/kgBW of paracetamol was intraperitoneally injected to cause liver damage. One of the groups received NAC as an antidote 10 hours after paracetamol induction. Detection of ALT and AST using a Chemistry Analyzer. ELISA approach for the detection of SOD, MDA, and TNF-α. The Roenigk score was calculated by two examiners after the liver histopathology preparations were stained using the Hematoxylin-Eosin method. Post hoc analyses were performed after the One Way Annova and Kruskal Wallis tests to examine the data. RESULTS According to PSA results, the smallest formula that formed curcumin nanoparticles (10.2 nm) was 8 g of curcumin formula mixed with a mixture of Tween 20 4.5 ml, Kolliphor EL 1.5 ml, Propylene Glycol 1.5 ml, and Capryol 90 1 ml for 21 minutes using an ultrasonic process. MDA and TNF-α levels, as well as the liver's histological Roenigk score, were significantly lower in the 100 mg/kgBB pure curcumin group (C100) when compared to the model group (model). The levels of AST, MDA, TNF-α, and the liver histopathology score were significantly lower in the 100 mg/kgBB (NC100) and 50 mg/kgBB (NC50) curcumin nanoparticle groups compared to the model group (model) and pure curcumin group (C100) (p< 0.05). CONCLUSION Curcumin nanoparticles showed better hepatoprotective ability than pure curcumin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irma Putri Damayanti
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Prof. Soedarto SH, Tembalang, Semarang Jawa Tengah 50275, Indonesia
| | - Neni Susilaningsih
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Prof. Soedarto SH, Tembalang, Semarang Jawa Tengah 50275, Indonesia
| | - Trilaksana Nugroho
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Prof. Soedarto SH, Tembalang, Semarang Jawa Tengah 50275, Indonesia
| | - Suhartono Suhartono
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Prof. Soedarto SH, Tembalang, Semarang Jawa Tengah 50275, Indonesia
| | - Suryono Suryono
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Prof. Soedarto SH, Tembalang, Semarang Jawa Tengah 50275, Indonesia
| | - Hardhono Susanto
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Prof. Soedarto SH, Tembalang, Semarang Jawa Tengah 50275, Indonesia
| | - Ari Suwondo
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Prof. Soedarto SH, Tembalang, Semarang Jawa Tengah 50275, Indonesia
| | - Endang Mahati
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Prof. Soedarto SH, Tembalang, Semarang Jawa Tengah 50275, Indonesia
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Zheng S, Li T, Qiu L. Identification of novel potential genes in testicular germ cell tumors: A transcriptome analysis. Cancer Biomark 2023; 38:261-272. [PMID: 37599523 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-230095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs), containing pure seminoma and non-seminoma, occupy the most majority of testicular cancers in adolescents and young men, which has increased dramatically in recent decades. Therefore, it is important to find crucial genes for improving diagnosis and prognosis in TGCTs. However, the diagnostic and prognostic markers of TGCTs are limited. METHODS In this study, our main objective is to explore novel potential genes that can be used as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in TGCTs. Our study detected 732 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using three microarray expression profiling datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Multiple analysis was performed to identify the roles of DEGs, including pathway and functional enrichment analysis, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, module analysis, and survival analysis. RESULT In total, 322 upregulated genes and 406 downregulated genes were identified as DEGs The functional and pathway enrichment analysis shows that DEGs were highly enriched in multiple biological attributes such as T cell activation, reproduction in multicellular organism, sperm flagellum, antigen processing and presentation Then, seven potential crucial genes were identified via PPI network analysis, module analysis, and survival analysis. Furthermore, 7 potential crucial genes had shown to play a key role in regulating immune cell infiltration level in patients with TGCTs. CONCLUSION We identified seven potential crucial genes (LAPTM5, NCF2, PECAM1, CD14, COL4A2, ANPEP and RGS1), which may be molecular markers in improving the way of diagnosis and prognosis in TGCTs.
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Ojo OA, Nwafor-Ezeh PI, Rotimi DE, Iyobhebhe M, Ogunlakin AD, Ojo AB. Apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in infertility: A mini review. Toxicol Rep 2023; 10:448-462. [PMID: 37125147 PMCID: PMC10130922 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2023.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility has been a major issue in our society for many years, and millions of couples all over the world are still experiencing it. There are several reasons for and causes of infertility in both men and women. Recent studies have shown that apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress contribute immensely to infertility. The data regarding this report were obtained through a thorough review of scientific articles published in various databases, including Elsevier, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Furthermore, PhD and MSc theses were also reviewed when compiling the data. Apoptosis, also known as "programmed cell death," is a natural and harmless process that occurs in human beings. Although it can become harmful if altered, Inflammation, on the other hand, is the body's reaction to detrimental stimuli caused by toxic substances or compounds, while oxidative stress is a phenomenon that results in an imbalance between the generation and aggregation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cells against antioxidants. These three factors interchangeably bring about several reproductive disorders in the body, resulting in infertility. This review aims at discussing how apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress play a role in human infertility. Availability of data and material The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwafemi Adeleke Ojo
- Phytomedicine, Molecular Toxicology, and Computational Biochemistry Research Laboratory (PMTCB-RL), Department of Biochemistry, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
- Correspondence to: Phytomedicine, Molecular Toxicology, and Computational Biochemistry Research Laboratory (PMTCB-RL), Department of Biochemistry, Bowen University, Iwo 232101, Nigeria.
| | - Pearl Ifunanya Nwafor-Ezeh
- Phytomedicine, Molecular Toxicology, and Computational Biochemistry Research Laboratory (PMTCB-RL), Department of Biochemistry, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Akingbolabo Daniel Ogunlakin
- Phytomedicine, Molecular Toxicology, and Computational Biochemistry Research Laboratory (PMTCB-RL), Department of Biochemistry, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
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NGF regulates sertoli cell growth and prevents LPS-induced junction protein damage via PI3K/AKT/NFκB signaling. Theriogenology 2023; 195:138-148. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Fenclová T, Chemek M, Havránková J, Kolinko Y, Sudová V, Moravec J, Navrátilová J, Klein P, Králíčková M, Nevoral J. Effect of Bisphenol S on testicular tissue after low-dose lactation exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 315:120114. [PMID: 36096261 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to endocrine disruptors such as bisphenols, can lead to and be the explanation for idiopathic infertility. In our study, we assessed the effect of exposure to bisphenol S (BPS) via breast milk on the testicular tissue health of adult male mice. Lactating dams were exposed to BPS through drinking water (0.216 ng g bw/day and 21.6 ng g bw/day) from post-natal day 0-15. Although there was no significant difference in testicular histopathology between the control and experimental groups, we observed an increase in the number of tight and gap junctions in the blood-testis barrier (BTB) of adult mice after lactation BPS exposure. Moreover, there was an increase in oxidative stress markers in adult testicular tissue of mice exposed via breast milk. Our lactation model indicates that breast milk is a route of exposure to an endocrine disruptor that can be responsible for idiopathic male infertility through the damage of the BTB and weakening of oxidative stress resistance in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Fenclová
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Alej Svobody 1655/76, Pilsen, 32300, Czech Republic.
| | - Marouane Chemek
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Alej Svobody 1655/76, Pilsen, 32300, Czech Republic
| | - Jiřina Havránková
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Karlovarská 48, Pilsen, 30166, Czech Republic.
| | - Yaroslav Kolinko
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Karlovarská 48, Pilsen, 30166, Czech Republic.
| | - Vendula Sudová
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Alej Svobody 1655/76, Pilsen, 32300, Czech Republic.
| | - Jiří Moravec
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Alej Svobody 1655/76, Pilsen, 32300, Czech Republic.
| | - Jana Navrátilová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, 62500, Czech Republic.
| | - Pavel Klein
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Alej Svobody 1655/76, Pilsen, 32300, Czech Republic.
| | - Milena Králíčková
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Alej Svobody 1655/76, Pilsen, 32300, Czech Republic; Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Karlovarská 48, Pilsen, 30166, Czech Republic.
| | - Jan Nevoral
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Alej Svobody 1655/76, Pilsen, 32300, Czech Republic; Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Karlovarská 48, Pilsen, 30166, Czech Republic.
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81
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Di R, Zhang R, Mwacharo JM, Wang X, He X, Liu Y, Zhang J, Gong Y, Zhang X, Chu M. Characteristics of piRNAs and their comparative profiling in testes of sheep with different fertility. Front Genet 2022; 13:1078049. [PMID: 36568364 PMCID: PMC9768229 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1078049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As a novel class of small RNAs, piRNAs are highly expressed in the animal gonads and their main known role is to inhibit transposon activity for ensuring the correctness and integrity of genome. In order to explore the characteristics of piRNAs in sheep testis and their possible regulatory roles on male reproduction, deep sequencing technology was used to sequence small RNAs and identify piRNAs in testes of sheep. The length of piRNAs in sheep testes showed a unimodal distribution between 26 and 31 nt, with a peak at 29 nt. These piRNAs exhibited obvious ping-pong signature and strand specificity. In the genome, they were mainly aligned to CDS, intron, repetitive sequence regions and unannotated regions. Furthermore, in transposon analysis, piRNAs were aligned predominantly to LINE, SINE, and LTR types of retrotransposon in sheep testes, and the piRNAs derived from each type showed obvious ping-pong signature. The piRNA clusters identified in sheep testes were mainly distributed on chromosomes 3, 7, 15, 17, 18 and 20. The results combining semen determination with pathway enrichment analysis implied that differentially expressed piRNAs between the testes of rams with different fertility might participate in spermatogenesis by regulating multiple pathways closely related to stabilization of blood-testis barrier and renewal and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cell. Taken together, the study provided new insights into the characteristics, origin and expression patterns of piRNAs in sheep testes tissue, which would help us better understand the role of piRNAs in sheep reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Di
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Rensen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China,School of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Yiyang Vocational & Technical College, Yiyang, China
| | - Joram Mwashigadi Mwacharo
- Small Ruminant Genomics International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,Institute of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, SRUC and Center for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH), Midlothian, United Kingdom
| | - Xiangyu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yufang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jinlong Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Yiming Gong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaosheng Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin, China,*Correspondence: Xiaosheng Zhang, ; Mingxing Chu,
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Xiaosheng Zhang, ; Mingxing Chu,
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Amiri N, Mohammadi P, Allahgholi A, Salek F, Amini E. The potential of sertoli cells (SCs) derived exosomes and its therapeutic efficacy in male reproductive disorders. Life Sci 2022; 312:121251. [PMID: 36463941 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
In the male reproductive system, seminiferous tubules in testis are lined by a complex stratified epithelium containing two distinct populations of cells, spermatogenic cells that develop into spermatozoa, and sertoli cells (SCs) that mainly support and nourish spermatogenic cell lineage as well as exerting powerful effect on men reproductive capacity. Different varieties of proteins, hormones, exosomes and growth factors are secreted by SCs. There are different kinds of junctions found between SCs called BTB. It was elucidated that complete absence of BTB or its dysfunction leads to infertility. To promote spermatogenesis, crosstalk of SCs with spermatogenic cells plays an important role. The ability of SCs to support germ cell productivity and development is related to its various products carrying out several functions. Exosomes (EXOs) are one of the main EVs with 30-100 nm size generating from endocytic pathway. They are produced in different parts of male reproductive system including epididymis, prostate and SCs. The most prominent characteristics of SC-based exosomes is considered mutual interaction of sertoli cells with spermatogonial stem cells and Leydig cells mainly through establishment of intercellular communication. Exosomes have gotten a lot of interest because of their role in pathobiological processes and as a cell free therapy which led to developing multiple exosome isolation methods based on different principles. Transmission of nucleic acids, proteins, and growth factors via SC-based exosomes and exosomal miRNAs are proved to have potential to be valuable biomarkers in male reproductive disease. Among testicular abnormalities, non-obstructive azoospermia and testicular cancer have been more contributed with SCs performance. The identification of key proteins and miRNAs involved in the signaling pathways related with spermatogenesis, can serve as diagnostic and regenerative targets in male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narjes Amiri
- Department of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran 15719-14911, Iran
| | - Paria Mohammadi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran 15719-14911, Iran
| | - Atefeh Allahgholi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran 15719-14911, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Salek
- Department of Biology, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elaheh Amini
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
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83
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Parlar Köprülü RE, Okur ME, Kolbaşi B, Keskin İ, Ozbek H. Effects of Vincamine on Testicular Dysfunction in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Male Rats. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2022; 21:e132265. [PMID: 36942057 PMCID: PMC10024332 DOI: 10.5812/ijpr-132265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Background Diabetes mellitus (DM) is frequently linked with problems of several organ systems, including retinopathy, neuropathy, and nephropathy. Additionally, patients have changes in sexual functioning, such as decreased libido and fertility. Vincamine, a monoterpenoid indole alkaloid, has hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects. Objectives This research assessed the impact of vincamine on testicular dysfunction in alloxan-induced male rats by measuring fasting blood glucose, oxidative stress, seminal analysis, and histological examination of the testis. Methods Wister-albino male rats were randomized into the following groups at random: Untreated-healthy, untreated-DM, vincamine-treated (20 mg/kg) DM, vincamine-treated (40 mg/kg) DM, and clomiphene-treated DM (5 mg/kg). On day 14, rats were sacrificed, and semen/blood samples were collected. Sperm count, motility, and morphological abnormalities were noted by microscopic examination. The testis was examined histopathologically and assessed using Johnsen's score. Results Compared with the untreated diabetic group, a dosage of 40 mg/kg vincamine generate a significant reduction in fasting blood sugar (FBG). Compared with the untreated diabetic group, the vincamine-treated rats produced greater plasma testosterone levels and Johnsen scores. In the vincamine 20 mg/kg group, sperm concentration was higher than in the vincamine 40 mg/kg group. Conclusions It is possible that vincamine has a potential preventive effect against diabetes-related reproductive problems attributable to its antioxidant activity and capacity to restore testicular steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabia Edibe Parlar Köprülü
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Corresponding Author: Department of Medical Pharmacology, Istanbul Medipol University, Kavacık, Göztepe Mah, Atatürk Cd. No:40, 34810 Beykoz/İstanbul, Turkey. Tel: +90-5395840201, Fax: +90-4448544,
| | - Mehmet Evren Okur
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Istanbul Health Sciences University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bircan Kolbaşi
- Department of Histology, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - İlknur Keskin
- Department of Histology, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hanefi Ozbek
- Departmnet of Medical Pharmacology, Izmir Bakircay University, Izmir, Turkey
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84
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Rachamalla M, Chinthada J, Kushwaha S, Putnala SK, Sahu C, Jena G, Niyogi S. Contemporary Comprehensive Review on Arsenic-Induced Male Reproductive Toxicity and Mechanisms of Phytonutrient Intervention. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10120744. [PMID: 36548577 PMCID: PMC9784647 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10120744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic (As) is a poisonous metalloid that is toxic to both humans and animals. Drinking water contamination has been linked to the development of cancer (skin, lung, urinary bladder, and liver), as well as other disorders such as diabetes and cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological, and developmental damage. According to epidemiological studies, As contributes to male infertility, sexual dysfunction, poor sperm quality, and developmental consequences such as low birth weight, spontaneous abortion, and small for gestational age (SGA). Arsenic exposure negatively affected male reproductive systems by lowering testicular and accessory organ weights, and sperm counts, increasing sperm abnormalities and causing apoptotic cell death in Leydig and Sertoli cells, which resulted in decreased testosterone synthesis. Furthermore, during male reproductive toxicity, several molecular signalling pathways, such as apoptosis, inflammation, and autophagy are involved. Phytonutrient intervention in arsenic-induced male reproductive toxicity in various species has received a lot of attention over the years. The current review provides an in-depth summary of the available literature on arsenic-induced male toxicity, as well as therapeutic approaches and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahesh Rachamalla
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada
| | - Joshi Chinthada
- Facility for Risk Assessment and Intervention Studies, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, S.A.S Nagar 160062, India
| | - Sapana Kushwaha
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Transit Campus, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli, Lucknow 226002, India
| | - Sravan Kumar Putnala
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada
| | - Chittaranjan Sahu
- Facility for Risk Assessment and Intervention Studies, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, S.A.S Nagar 160062, India
| | - Gopabandhu Jena
- Facility for Risk Assessment and Intervention Studies, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, S.A.S Nagar 160062, India
| | - Som Niyogi
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada
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85
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Wei J, Lu X, Bao X, Zhang C, Li J, Ren C, Zhu Z, Ma B, Zhang N, Jin X, Ma B. Aucubin supplementation alleviate diabetes induced-disruption of blood-testis barrier and testicular damage via stabilizing cell junction integrity. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 938:175430. [PMID: 36460131 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Disruption of blood-testis barrier (BTB) was a crucial pathological feature of diabetes induced-testicular injury at early phase. Aucubin (AU), a main active component in Eucommiae Cortex, has drawn attention for its benefits against male reproductive system disease. The current study was aimed at investigating the protective role of AU and exploring the underlying mechanism in diabetic model. A murine model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was induced by high-fat diet (HFD) combined with streptozocin (STZ). Testicular weight index and morphology, sperm quality, integrity of BTB and protein levels were analyzed. The underlying mechanism of the protective effect of AU was further explored in Sertoli cells (SCs) cultured with high glucose (HG). Our results showed AU inhibited testicular structural destruction, restored disruption of BTB and improved abnormal spermatogenic function in diabetic mice. Consistent with in vivo results, HG induced decreased transcellular resistance and increased permeability in SCs monolayers, while AU exposure reverses this trend. Meanwhile, reduced expression of Zonula occludin-1(ZO-1) and Connexin43(Cx43) in testicular tissue diabetic mice and HG-induced SCs was prominently reversed via AU treatment. Mechanistic studies suggested a high affinity interaction between AU and c-Src protein was identified based on molecular docking, and the activation of c-Src was significantly inhibited in AU treatment. Furthermore, AU significantly increased the expression of Cx43 and ZO-1 proteins HG-induced SCs, which can be further enhanced in gene-silenced c-Src cells to some extent. Our results suggested that AU ameliorated disruption of BTB and spermatogenesis dysfunction in diabetic mice via inactivating c-Src to stabilize cell junction integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxun Wei
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuanzhao Lu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaowen Bao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Nanjing Tech University School of Economics & Management. Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaqi Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaoxing Ren
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiming Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Beiting Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Zhang
- School of Chemical and Molecular Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Jin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of 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] [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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Samir H, ElSayed MI, Radwan F, Hedia M, Hendawy H, Hendawy AO, Elbadawy M, Watanabe G. An updated insight on testicular hemodynamics: Environmental, physiological, and technical perspectives in farm and companion animals. Vet Res Commun 2022; 47:323-345. [DOI: 10.1007/s11259-022-10022-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
In all organs, control of blood flow is important but might be particularly critical for testicular functions. This is because of the very low oxygen concentration and high metabolic rate of the seminiferous tubules, the physiological temperature of the testis, and its location outside the abdominal cavity. Many factors affect the characteristics of TBF in farm and companion animals, such as environment (thermal and seasonal effects) and physiological (species, breeds, age, body weight, and sexual maturity). Thermal environment stress has detrimental effects on spermatogenesis and consequently has more serious impacts on both human and animal fertility. Numerous studies have been performed to assess TBF in different animal species including bulls, rams, bucks, alpacas, stallions, and dogs with varied results. Hence, assessment of TBF by Doppler ultrasonography is of great importance to estimate the effect of high environment temperature on testicular functions. Also, differences observed in the TBF may result from different technical aspects such as the identification of the segment of the testicular artery to be examined. In the current review, we focused on the imperative roles of TBF in various animal species. Besides, we discussed in detail various factors that could affect TBF. These factors can significantly modify the TBF and thus should be considered when establishing reference values in farm animals for better clinical diagnosis. The information provided in this review is valuable for researchers and veterinarians to help them a better understanding of testicular hemodynamics for the proper evaluation of breeding soundness examination in males.
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88
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Mechanisms of Male Reproductive Toxicity of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214229. [PMID: 36430706 PMCID: PMC9693139 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) are a group of flame retardants used in a variety of artificial materials. Despite being phased out in most industrial countries, they remain in the environment and human tissues due to their persistence, lipophilicity, and bioaccumulation. Populational and experimental studies demonstrate the male reproductive toxicity of PBDEs including increased incidence of genital malformations (hypospadias and cryptorchidism), altered weight of testes and other reproductive tissues, altered testes histology and transcriptome, decreased sperm production and sperm quality, altered epigenetic regulation of developmental genes in spermatozoa, and altered secretion of reproductive hormones. A broad range of mechanistic hypotheses of PBDE reproductive toxicity has been suggested. Among these hypotheses, oxidative stress, the disruption of estrogenic signaling, and mitochondria disruption are affected by PBDE concentrations much higher than concentrations found in human tissues, making them unlikely links between exposures and adverse reproductive outcomes in the general population. Robust evidence suggests that at environmentally relevant doses, PBDEs and their metabolites may affect male reproductive health via mechanisms including AR antagonism and the disruption of a complex network of metabolic signaling.
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89
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Kirsanov O, Johnson T, Malachowski T, Niedenberger BA, Gilbert EA, Bhowmick D, Ozdinler PH, Gray DA, Fisher-Wellman K, Hermann BP, Geyer CB. Modeling mammalian spermatogonial differentiation and meiotic initiation in vitro. Development 2022; 149:282465. [PMID: 36250451 PMCID: PMC9845750 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In mammalian testes, premeiotic spermatogonia respond to retinoic acid by completing an essential lengthy differentiation program before initiating meiosis. The molecular and cellular changes directing these developmental processes remain largely undefined. This wide gap in knowledge is due to two unresolved technical challenges: (1) lack of robust and reliable in vitro models to study differentiation and meiotic initiation; and (2) lack of methods to isolate large and pure populations of male germ cells at each stage of differentiation and at meiotic initiation. Here, we report a facile in vitro differentiation and meiotic initiation system that can be readily manipulated, including the use of chemical agents that cannot be safely administered to live animals. In addition, we present a transgenic mouse model enabling fluorescence-activated cell sorting-based isolation of millions of spermatogonia at specific developmental stages as well as meiotic spermatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleksandr Kirsanov
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Taylor Johnson
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Taylor Malachowski
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Bryan A. Niedenberger
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Emma A. Gilbert
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Debajit Bhowmick
- Flow Cytometry Facility, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - P. Hande Ozdinler
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60611, USA
| | - Douglas A. Gray
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, K1H 8M5, Canada,Cancer Therapeutics, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Kelsey Fisher-Wellman
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA,East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Brian P. Hermann
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Christopher B. Geyer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA,East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA,Author for correspondence ()
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90
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Sperm tendency to agglutinate in motile bundles in relation to sperm competition and fertility duration in chickens. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18860. [PMID: 36344554 PMCID: PMC9640612 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22049-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
A unique sperm behavior was observed in Egyptian chickens. Sperm showed a tendency to agglutinate forming motile thread-like bundles. Sperm agglutination behavior, kinematics, and some morphometric measures were studied in relation to sperm competition and fertility duration in Sharkasi and Dandarawi chickens. Sperm tendency to agglutinate was assessed by examining sperm morphology using scanning electron microscopy, Acridine orange-stained semen smears using fluorescence microscopy, and recording videos of sperm under phase contrast microscope. Sperm velocity and morphometric measures were evaluated using image-J software. To assess sperm competition, Sharkasi and Dandarawi hens were artificially inseminated by semen pools possessing equal number of Sharaksi and Dandarawi sperm. Artificial insemination was repeated ten times. The eggs obtained were incubated, and the hatchlings were discriminated as descending from Sharkasi or Dandarawi fathers according to their phenotype. To assess the fertility duration, Sharkasi and Dandarawi hens were inseminated by semen collected from roosters of the same strain. Eggs were collected for a period of 28 days post-insemination and incubated. Sharkasi spermatozoa showed higher tendency to agglutinate forming longer and thicker motile bundles. No significant differences were observed in sperm curvilinear and straight line velocity and in sperm morphometric measures between Sharkasi and Dandarawi chickens. Sharkasi roosters fathered 81.6% and 67.7% of the hatchlings produced by Sharkasi and Dandarawi mothers, respectively. The fertility period in Sharkasi and Dandarawi was 22 and 14 days, respectively. We suggest that the differences seen in sperm competitiveness and fertility duration can be attributed to sperm agglutination behavior.
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91
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Flowers WL. Factors affecting the production of quality ejaculates from boars. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:106840. [PMID: 34518030 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Production of acceptable quality ejaculates in boars is dependent upon the Sertoli cell population established before puberty and how effectively these cells function after sexual maturity. In general, factors affecting Sertoli cell mitosis tend to have a two-fold greater effect on sperm production compared with those affecting spermatogenesis. Birthweight is a reliable indicator of in utero testicular development and prepubertal growth rates are positively correlated with testis size and sperm production after sexual maturity. Colostrum intake and pre-weaning nutrition account for much of the variation associated with quality and quantity of ejaculates and represent opportunities to further enhance lifetime sperm production. Interactions between young boars and humans, shortly after weaning, have important effects on spermatogenesis after sexual maturity and need to be studied further. The seasonal effect on depression in semen quality is the most significant factor affecting production of acceptable quality ejaculates after puberty. Ambient temperatures, greater than those of the thermoneutral zone, have both acute and chronic effects that compromise all aspects of the male reproductive axis. Identification of genes associated with heat-tolerant phenotypes holds promise for addressing this challenge, especially in light of the current trend in global warming. Supplementation of vitamins, minerals and other compounds have positive effects on sperm production during periods in which other stressors, especially heat stress, are present and is an important mitigation strategy. Recent information on housing conditions and boar usage patterns indicate these cause relatively minor changes in sperm production, overall, but for some males can have significant, long-term effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- W L Flowers
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7621, USA.
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92
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Sun W, Tian F, Pan H, Chang X, Xia M, Hu J, Wang Y, Li R, Li W, Yang M, Zhou Z. Flurochloridone induced abnormal spermatogenesis by damaging testicular Sertoli cells in mice. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 246:114163. [PMID: 36240522 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.114163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Flurochloridone (FLC), a selective herbicide used on a global scale, has been reported to have male reproductive toxicity whose evidence is limited, but its mechanism remains unclear. The present study was conducted to systematically explore the male reproductive toxicity of FLC, including sperm quality, spermatogenesis, toxicity targets, and potential mechanisms. METHODS Male C57BL/6 mice aged 6-7 weeks received gavage administration of FLC (365/730 mg/kg/day) for 28 consecutive days. Then, the tissue and sperm of mice were collected for analysis. We measured the gonadosomatic index and analyzed sperm concentration, motility, malformation rate, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Spermatocyte immunofluorescence staining was performed to analyze meiosis. We also performed pathological staining on the testis and epididymis tissue and TUNEL staining, immunohistochemical analysis, and ultrastructural observation on the testicular tissue. RESULTS Results showed that FLC caused testicular weight reduction, dysfunction, and architectural damage in mice, but no significant adverse effect was found in the epididymis. The exposure interfered with spermatogonial proliferation and meiosis, affecting sperm concentration, motility, kinematic parameters, morphology, and MMP, decreasing sperm quality. Furthermore, mitochondrial damage and apoptosis of testicular Sertoli cells were observed in mice treated with FLC. CONCLUSION We found that FLC has significant adverse effects on spermatogonial proliferation and meiosis. Meanwhile, apoptosis and mitochondrial damage may be the potential mechanism of Sertoli cell damage. Our study demonstrated that FLC could induce testicular Sertoli cell damage, leading to abnormal spermatogenesis, which decreased sperm quality. The data provided references for the toxicity risk and research methods of FLC application in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqi Sun
- School of Public Health/MOE Key Laboratory for Public Health Safety/ Collaborative Innovation Center of Social Risks Governance in Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai 200336, China
| | - Fang Tian
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Health Commission (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hongjie Pan
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Health Commission (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiuli Chang
- School of Public Health/MOE Key Laboratory for Public Health Safety/ Collaborative Innovation Center of Social Risks Governance in Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Minjie Xia
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Health Commission (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jingying Hu
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Health Commission (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yuzhu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Health Commission (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Runsheng Li
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Health Commission (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Weihua Li
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Health Commission (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Mingjun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Health Commission (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Zhijun Zhou
- School of Public Health/MOE Key Laboratory for Public Health Safety/ Collaborative Innovation Center of Social Risks Governance in Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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93
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Gerb SA, Agca C, Stevey L, Agca Y. Effects of CO₂ Euthanasia of C57BL/6 Mice on Sperm Motility, In Vitro Fertilization, and Embryonic Developmental Competence. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE : JAALAS 2022; 61:603-610. [PMID: 36283799 PMCID: PMC9732780 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-jaalas-22-000012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of epididymal sperm collected after euthanasia is a common method to preserve and distribute valuable mouse models worldwide. However, the euthanasia method used prior to sperm collection must not adversely affect sperm quality. The most common method of euthanasia in mice is CO₂ asphyxiation, but its effect on the quality of sperm collected postmortem is largely unknown. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of CO₂ euthanasia of C57BL/6 mice on both freshly recovered sperm and sperm subjected to freezing and thawing. First, sperm concentration, progressive motility, curvilineal velocity (VCL), average path velocity (VAP), and progressive velocity (VSL) were analyzed for mice euthanized by cervical dislocation (CD), high flow CO₂ (100%), or low flow CO₂ (30%) displacement/minute, respectively. Then, in-vitro fertilization and embryonic development rates were determined using frozen-thawed sperm from each euthanasia method. Neither fresh nor frozen-thawed sperm showed significant differences in sperm concentration, progressive motility, VAP, or VCL when compared to CD and CO₂ groups. However, frozen-thawed sperm collected from CD mice had higher VCL values than did those collected from the low flow mice (P = 0.039). VCL was not different in fresh or frozen-thawed sperm collected after mouse euthanasia by CD as compared with high flow CO₂ or by high flow as compared with low flow CO₂. Frozen-thawed sperm showed no differences among the 3 euthanasia groups for fertilization (P = 0.452) or blastocyst development rates (P = 0.298). The results indicate that CO₂ euthanasia can be used as an alternative to CD to obtain optimal quality mouse sperm for cryopreservation while remaining compliant with welfare requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha A Gerb
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, and
| | - Cansu Agca
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, and
| | - Lynlee Stevey
- Department of Animal Resources, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Yuksel Agca
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri;,
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94
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Tang EI, Cheng CY. MARK2 and MARK4 Regulate Sertoli Cell BTB Dynamics Through Microtubule and Actin Cytoskeletons. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6667645. [PMID: 35971301 PMCID: PMC10147390 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Microtubule affinity-regulating kinases (MARKs) are nonreceptor Ser/Thr protein kinases known to regulate cell polarity and microtubule dynamics in Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila, invertebrates, vertebrates, and mammals. An earlier study has shown that MARK4 is present at the ectoplasmic specialization and blood-testis barrier (BTB) in the seminiferous epithelium of adult rat testes. Here, we report the function of MARK4 and another isoform MARK2 in Sertoli cells at the BTB. Knockdown of MARK2, MARK4, or MARK2 and MARK4 by RNAi using the corresponding siRNA duplexes without apparent off-target effects was shown to impair tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier at the Sertoli cell BTB. It also disrupted microtubule (MT)- and actin-based cytoskeletal organization within Sertoli cells. Although MARK2 and MARK4 were shown to share sequence homology, they likely regulated the Sertoli cell BTB and MT cytoskeleton differently. Disruption of the TJ-permeability barrier following knockdown of MARK4 was considerably more severe than loss of MARK2, though both perturbed the barrier. Similarly, loss of MARK2 affected MT organization in a different manner than the loss of MARK4. Knockdown of MARK2 caused MT bundles to be arranged around the cell periphery, whereas knockdown of MARK4 caused MTs to retract from the cell edge. These differences in effects on the TJ-permeability barrier are likely from the unique roles of MARK2 and MARK4 in regulating the MT cytoskeleton of the Sertoli cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth I Tang
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
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95
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Meng Z, Liu Y, Zhou J, Zheng B, Lv J. Drug transport across the blood-testis barrier. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:6412-6423. [PMID: 36247247 PMCID: PMC9556450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier transfers nutrients to spermatogenic tubules to ensure the normal physiological function of the testes. It also restricts the "entry and exit" of biological macromolecules in the testicular lumen and provides a unique microenvironment for spermatogenesis. This makes the testes a safe place for some viruses and tumors, as immune factors cannot function and drugs fail to reach therapeutic concentrations in the testes. This review aimed to describe the factors regulating the structure and physiological function of the blood-testis barrier. By understanding therapeutic mechanisms of action, drugs can be developed to function in the testicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixiang Meng
- Suzhou Dushu Lake Hospital (Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University)Suzhou 215124, China
| | - Yawei Liu
- Suzhou Dushu Lake Hospital (Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University)Suzhou 215124, China
| | - Jian Zhou
- Suzhou Dushu Lake Hospital (Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University)Suzhou 215124, 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 UniversitySuzhou 215002, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 211166, China
| | - Jinxing Lv
- Suzhou Dushu Lake Hospital (Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University)Suzhou 215124, China
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96
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Xu S, Wu Y, Chen Y, Lu W, Wang YX, Gao B, Zhang J. Environmental metal exposure, seminal plasma metabolome and semen quality: Evidence from Chinese reproductive-aged men. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 838:155860. [PMID: 35595136 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Environmental metal exposure has been associated with decreasing semen quality, but the effects of multiple metal exposure on seminal plasma metabolome remain obscure. In this study, semen and repeated urine samples from 551 volunteers were collected in Wuhan City. Heavy metals and trace elements were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer, and seminal plasma metabolomes were acquired using liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis showed more than half of the seminal plasma metals were associated with specific metabolite modules, whereas only a few urine metals presented weak associations, indicating that seminal plasma may be an ideal biological sample for male reproductive biomarker discovery and exposure risk assessment. Seminal plasma zinc (Zn) and selenium (Se) concentrations were significantly associated with 22 metabolites (e.g., glycerophospholipids, acyl-carnitines and amino acid derivatives). Among these metabolites, acyl-carnitines were positively associated with semen quality and sperm concentration. Moreover, acyl-carnitines were associated with both Zn and Se exposure, indicating the potential role of carnitine pathway in their toxicity mechanism. Our findings suggest that seminal plasma metabolome connects Zn and Se exposure and sperm concentrations in Chinese men of reproductive age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yaru Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yujie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Wenqing Lu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yi-Xin Wang
- Departments of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Biling Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
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97
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Zhao Y, Chen MS, Wang JX, Cui JG, Zhang H, Li XN, Li JL. Connexin-43 is a promising target for lycopene preventing phthalate-induced spermatogenic disorders. J Adv Res 2022:S2090-1232(22)00203-X. [PMID: 36087924 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Male infertility is a multifactorial pathological condition and may be a harbinger of future health. Phthalates are ubiquitous environmental contaminants that have been implicated in the global decline in male fertility. Among them, di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is the most prevalently used. Lycopene (LYC) is a possible preventive and therapeutic agent for male infertility owing to its antioxidant properties. The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is formed between Sertoli cells where it creates a unique microenvironment for spermatogenesis. OBJECTIVES We hypothesize that phthalate caused male infertility and LYC plays an important role in phthalate-induced male fertility disorders. METHODS Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, ultrastructure observation, and fluorescence microscopy were used to examine the morphological changes. RNA-Seq, and western blotting were conducted to detect gene and protein levels. Routine testing for sperm morphology and sperm-egg binding assay were conducted to examine the morphological structure and function of sperm. Cell scratch assay and transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) were used to detect cell migration capacity and barrier integrity. RESULTS In vivo experiments, we showed that LYC prevented DEHP-induced impairment of BTB integrity, which provided a guarantee for the smooth progress of spermatogenesis. LYC improved DEHP-induced change in sperm parameters and fertilization ability. Subsequent in vitro experiments, LYC alleviated MEHP-induced disruption of intercellular junctions in mouse Spermatogonia cells (GC-1 cells) and mouse Sertoli cells (TM4 cells). In MEHP-induced BTB impairment models of Sertoli cells, treatment with LYC or overexpressing connexin-43 (Cx43) promoted cell migration capacity and normalized BTB integrity. Cx43 knockdown inhibited cell migration capacity and perturbed BTB reassembly in LYC preventing DEHP-induced BTB impairment. CONCLUSION Our study provides evidence for the role of LYC in phthalates-induced spermatogenic disorders and points to Cx43 as a potential target for male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Ming-Shan Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Xin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Gen Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Hao Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Xue-Nan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China
| | - Jin-Long Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P.R. China.
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98
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Agrawal M, Kumar V, Vardhan G. Growing concerns on male reproductive health amidst COVID-19 pandemic. J Family Med Prim Care 2022; 11:5038-5040. [PMID: 36505593 PMCID: PMC9731087 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_199_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood-testis barrier is body's innate mechanism to defend germ cells by creating a physical and immunological barrier. But some viral infections are known to evade it. As ACE2 and TMPRSS2 are present all over the body including male reproductive tract, it is worth exploring how coronavirus disease (COVID-19) could possibly affect male fertility. A review of literature was done using search engines like PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, etc., and all the latest articles up to May 2021 were considered. Some studies have substantiated the presence of orchitis in COVID patients using semen and tissue samples. Though most studies report the absence of virus in testis, involvement of seminiferous tubules has been seen in pathological analysis suggesting defective spermatogenesis. This can be primarily attributed to inflammation and increased vascular permeability. Other factors that could affect male fertility are fever, autoimmune response, drugs, and erectile dysfunction. Male fertility is an important aspect of health care and must be looked into. Further studies can be done to understand host immunity towards SARS-CoV-2 in the testis. It will be worthwhile to know whether viral orchitis and its sequelae are acute or chronic in nature, and if they are reversible. Effect of the virus on female reproductive tract can also be assessed further. Counselling can be given to affected/recovering patients along with correct selection of drugs to prevent these long-term complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megha Agrawal
- Department of Physiology, Anna Medical College, Montagne Blanche, Mauritius
| | - Vikas Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Gyan Vardhan
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India,Address for correspondence: Mr. Gyan Vardhan, Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh - 249 203, Uttarakhand, India. E-mail:
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99
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Role of p38 MAPK Signalling in Testis Development and Male Fertility. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:6891897. [PMID: 36092154 PMCID: PMC9453003 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6891897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The testis is an important male reproductive organ, which ensures reproductive function via the secretion of testosterone and the generation of spermatozoa. Testis development begins in the embryonic period, continues after birth, and generally reaches functional maturation at puberty. The stress-activated kinase, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), regulates multiple cell processes including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and cellular stress responses. p38 MAPK signalling plays a crucial role in testis development by regulating spermatogenesis, the fate determination of pre-Sertoli, and primordial germ cells during embryogenesis, the proliferation of testicular cells in the postnatal period, and the functions of mature Sertoli and Leydig cells. In addition, p38 MAPK signalling is involved in decreased male fertility when exposed to various harmful stimuli. This review will describe in detail the biological functions of p38 MAPK signalling in testis development and male reproduction, together with its pathological role in male infertility.
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100
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mTORC1/C2 regulate spermatogenesis in Eriocheir sinensis via alterations in the actin filament network and cell junctions. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 390:293-313. [PMID: 36044078 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03680-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a finely regulated process of germ cell proliferation and differentiation that leads to the production of sperm in seminiferous tubules. Although the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is crucial for spermatogenesis in mammals, its functions and molecular mechanisms in spermatogenesis remain largely unknown in nonmammalian species, particularly in Crustacea. In this study, we first identified es-Raptor (the core component of mTOR complex 1) and es-Rictor (the core component of mTOR complex 2) from the testis of Eriocheir sinensis. Dynamic localization of es-Raptor and es-Rictor implied that these proteins were indispensable for the spermatogenesis of E. sinensis. Furthermore, es-Raptor and es-Rictor knockdown results showed that the mature sperm failed to be released, causing almost empty lumens in the testis. We investigated the reasons for these effects and found that the actin-based cytoskeleton was disrupted in the knockdown groups. In addition, the integrity of the testis barrier (similar to the blood-testis barrier in mammals) was impaired and affected the expression of cell junction proteins. Further study revealed that es-Raptor and es-Rictor may regulate spermatogenesis via both mTORC1- and mTORC2-dependent mechanisms that involve es-rpS6 and es-Akt/es-PKC, respectively. Moreover, to explore the testis barrier in E. sinensis, we established a cadmium chloride (CdCl2)-induced testis barrier damage model as a positive control. Morphological and immunofluorescence results were similar to those of the es-Raptor and es-Rictor knockdown groups. Altogether, es-Raptor and es-Rictor were important for spermatogenesis through maintenance of the actin filament network and cell junctions in E. sinensis.
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