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Sertoli cell survival and barrier function are regulated by miR-181c/d-Pafah1b1 axis during mammalian spermatogenesis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:498. [PMID: 36008729 PMCID: PMC9411099 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04521-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells contribute to the formation of the blood-testis barrier (BTB), which is necessary for normal spermatogenesis. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as posttranscriptional regulatory elements in BTB function during spermatogenesis. Our previous study has shown that miR-181c or miR-181d (miR-181c/d) is highly expressed in testes from boars at 60 days old compared with at 180 days old. Herein, we found that overexpression of miR-181c/d via miR-181c/d mimics in murine Sertoli cells (SCs) or through injecting miR-181c/d-overexpressing lentivirus in murine testes perturbs BTB function by altering BTB-associated protein distribution at the Sertoli cell-cell interface and F-actin organization, but this in vivo perturbation disappears approximately 6 weeks after the final treatment. We also found that miR-181c/d represses Sertoli cell proliferation and promotes its apoptosis. Moreover, miR-181c/d regulates Sertoli cell survival and barrier function by targeting platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase 1b regulatory subunit 1 (Pafah1b1) gene. Furthermore, miR-181c/d suppresses PAFAH1B1 expression, reduces the complex of PAFAH1B1 with IQ motif-containing GTPase activating protein 1, and inhibits CDC42/PAK1/LIMK1/Cofilin pathway which is required for F-actin stabilization. In total, our results reveal the regulatory axis of miR-181c/d-Pafah1b1 in cell survival and barrier function of Sertoli cells and provide additional insights into miRNA functions in mammalian spermatogenesis.
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102
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Shen Y, You Y, Zhu K, Fang C, Yu X, Chang D. Bibliometric and visual analysis of blood-testis barrier research. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:969257. [PMID: 36071829 PMCID: PMC9441755 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.969257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Extensive research on the blood-testis barrier has been undertaken in recent years. However, no systematic bibliometric study has been conducted on this subject. Our research aimed to identify the hotspots and frontiers of blood-testis barrier research and to serve as a guide for future scientific research and decision-making in the field.Methods: Studies on the blood-testis barrier were found in the Web of Science Core Collection. VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Microsoft Excel were used to conduct the bibliometric and visual analyses.Results: We found 942 blood-testis barrier studies published in English between 1992 and 2022. The number of annual publications and citations increased significantly between 2011 and 2022, notably in the United States. China and the United States, the US Population Council, Endocrinology, and Cheng C. Yan were the most productive countries, institution, journal, and author, respectively. The study keywords indicated that blood-testis barrier research involves a variety of compositional features (tight junctions, cytoskeleton, adherens junctions), cell types (Sertoli cells, germ cells, Leydig cells, stem cells), reproductive toxicity (cadmium, nanoparticles, bisphenol-a), and relevant mechanisms (spermatogenesis, apoptosis, oxidative stress, dynamics, inflammation, immune privilege).Conclusion: The composition and molecular processes of the blood-testis barrier as well as the blood-testis barrier in male infertility patients are the primary research hotspots in this field. In addition, future research will likely focus on treatment and the development of novel medications that target signal pathways in oxidative stress and apoptosis to preserve the blood-testis barrier. Further studies must extend to clinical diagnosis and therapy.
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103
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Yang Y, Yao M, Zeng J, Zheng D, Li Q, Ni Y, Xiao X. FYN regulates cell adhesion at the blood-testis barrier and the apical ectoplasmic specialization via its effect on Arp3 in the mouse testis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:915274. [PMID: 36016954 PMCID: PMC9396411 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.915274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
FYN is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase of the SRC family that facilitates virus entry across epithelial tight junctions. However, the role of FYN in mammalian testes in maintaining the blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity and the adhesion of germ cells to Sertoli cells are not well defined. Here, we show that FYN is a component of the BTB and the apical ectoplasmic specialization (ES) at Sertoli-Sertoli and Sertoli-spermatid interfaces, respectively, and is expressed extensively in mouse testes during postnatal development. FYN was shown to be structurally linked to the actin and microtubule-based cytoskeletons. An in vivo model was used to explore the modulatory effect of FYN on BTB and apical ES dynamics within the testes when adult mice were treated intraperitoneally with CdCl2 (3 mg/kg body weight). The CdCl2-induced epithelial restructuring was associated with a transient increase in the interaction between FYN and the actin branching/nucleation protein Arp3, as well as an induction of Arp3 phosphorylation, which possibly lead to actin cytoskeleton remodeling, resulting in BTB damage and germ cell loss in the seminiferous epithelium. Based on the results, we propose a model in which FYN and Arp3 form a protein complex that is responsible for junction reorganization events at the apical ES and the BTB. It is also possible for viruses to break through the BTB and enter the immunoprivileged testicular microenvironment via this mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yang
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Mingxia Yao
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Jie Zeng
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Dongwang Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Qin Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ya Ni
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Xiao
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal’s & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xiang Xiao,
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104
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Molele RA, Ibrahim MIA, Zakariah M, Mahdy MAA, Clift S, Fosgate GT, Brown G. Junctional complexes of the blood-testis barrier in the Japanese quail (Coturnix Coturnix japonica). Acta Histochem 2022; 124:151929. [PMID: 35947890 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2022.151929] [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: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the developmental changes in the adherens junctions, gap junctions, as well as tight junctions forming the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in Japanese quail (Coturnix Coturnix japonica) testis. Testicular tissue from pre-pubertal, pubertal, adult, and aged Japanese quail were examined by immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The tight junction proteins claudin-3, claudin-11, occludin and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), were generally localised in the cytoplasm of Sertoli cells, spermatogonia, and spermatocytes of pre-pubertal, pubertal, some adult birds. The adherens junction protein E-cadherin had a similar distribution pattern. During pre-pubertal development, the gap junction protein connexin-43 (Cx43) was only localised between Leydig cells in the testicular interstitium. However, TEM revealed the presence of gap junctions between cells of the seminiferous epithelium as early as the pre-pubertal stage. Furthermore, TEM confirmed the presence of tight and adherens junctions in the seminiferous epithelia of all age groups. The findings of this study document age-related differences in the immunolocalisation and intensity of the junctional proteins and the ultrastructure of the junctional complexes forming the BTB in quail testes. Additionally, the junctional complexes forming the BTB in the Japanese quail are well established prior to puberty. This study provides baseline information for the future evaluation of pathological changes in the BTB of avian species at different developmental stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reneilwe A Molele
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa.
| | - Mohammed I A Ibrahim
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; Department of Basic Science, University of West Kordofan, West Kordofan State, Sudan
| | - Musa Zakariah
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri, PMB 1069, Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | - Mohamed A A Mahdy
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena 83523, Egypt
| | - Sarah Clift
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
| | - Geoffrey T Fosgate
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
| | - Geoffrey Brown
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
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105
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Ultrasonic Microbubble Cavitation Enhanced Tissue Permeability and Drug Diffusion in Solid Tumor Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14081642. [PMID: 36015267 PMCID: PMC9414228 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14081642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy has an essential role not only in advanced solid tumor therapy intervention but also in society’s health at large. Chemoresistance, however, seriously restricts the efficiency and sensitivity of chemotherapeutic agents, representing a significant threat to patients’ quality of life and life expectancy. How to reverse chemoresistance, improve efficacy sensitization response, and reduce adverse side effects need to be tackled urgently. Recently, studies on the effect of ultrasonic microbubble cavitation on enhanced tissue permeability and retention (EPR) have attracted the attention of researchers. Compared with the traditional targeted drug delivery regimen, the microbubble cavitation effect, which can be used to enhance the EPR effect, has the advantages of less trauma, low cost, and good sensitization effect, and has significant application prospects. This article reviews the research progress of ultrasound-mediated microbubble cavitation in the treatment of solid tumors and discusses its mechanism of action to provide new ideas for better treatment strategies.
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106
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Liu X, Wu K, Gao L, Wang L, Shi X. Biomaterial strategies for the application of reproductive tissue engineering. Bioact Mater 2022; 14:86-96. [PMID: 35310354 PMCID: PMC8892081 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Human reproductive organs are of vital importance to the life of an individual and the reproduction of human populations. So far, traditional methods have a limited effect in recovering the function and fertility of reproductive organs and tissues. Thus, aim to replace and facilitate the regrowth of damaged or diseased tissue, various biomaterials are developed to offer hope to overcome these difficulties and help gain further research progress in reproductive tissue engineering. In this review, we focus on the biomaterials and their four main applications in reproductive tissue engineering: in vitro generation and culture of reproductive cells; development of reproductive organoids and models; in vivo transplantation of reproductive cells or tissues; and regeneration of reproductive tissue. In reproductive tissue engineering, designing biomaterials for different applications with different mechanical properties, structure, function, and microenvironment is challenging and important, and deserves more attention. Various biomaterials have been developed and used in reproductive tissue engineering. 3D culture systems can lead to better cell-cell interactions for in vitro production of reproductive cells. Reproductive organoids and models are formed by biomaterials to simulate the environment of natural reproductive organs. Biomaterials should promote vascular regeneration and resist inflammation for in-situ reproductive tissue regeneration.
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107
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Ikokide EJ, Oyagbemi AA, Oyeyemi MO. Impacts of cadmium on male fertility: Lessons learnt so far. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14516. [PMID: 35765120 DOI: 10.1111/and.14516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most dangerous heavy metals in the world. Globally, toxicities associated with cadmium and its attendant negative impact on humans and animals cannot be under-estimated. Cd is a heavy metal, and people are exposed to it through contaminated foods and smoking. Cd exerts its deleterious impacts on the testes (male reproductive system) by inducing oxidative stress, spermatogenic cells apoptosis, testicular inflammation, decreasing androgenic and sperm cell functions, disrupting ionic homeostasis, pathways and epigenetic gene regulation, damaging vascular endothelium and blood testes barrier. In association with other industrial by-products, Cd has been incriminated for the recent decline of male fertility rate seen in both man and animals. Understanding the processes involved in Cd-induced testicular toxicity is vital for the innovation of techniques that will help ameliorate infertility in males. In this review, we summed up recent studies on the processes of testicular toxicity and male infertility due to Cd exposure. Also, the usage of different compounds including phytochemicals, and plant extracts to manage Cd reprotoxicity will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Joseph Ikokide
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Ademola Adetokunbo Oyagbemi
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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108
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Effect of Malignancy on Semen Parameters. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12060922. [PMID: 35743953 PMCID: PMC9228099 DOI: 10.3390/life12060922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: We aimed to examine how various types of cancer, classified histologically, affect semen quality. Methods: The study group included 313 patients who were diagnosed with cancer and reached for a sperm cryopreservation before a gonadotoxic treatment (PG-Tx group). Their semen parameters were compared to those of two control groups: (a) individuals who attended a fertility investigation and were found to be above the limit of the lower reference value of the WHO 2010 manual (ARL group), and (b) fertile men, whose semen parameters were obtained from the dataset of the WHO 2020 manual. Results: Semen quality was significantly poorer in the PG-Tx group than in the ARL group. Differences included a 65.6% decrease in concentration, a 12.1% decrease in volume, a 72.7% decrease in total count, and a 33.0%, 22.2%, and 24.7% decrease in total motility, rapid motility, and progressive motility, respectively. Linear regression models comparing the PG-Tx and ARL groups revealed that the maximum reduction in total motility and concentration was in men with germ-cell tumors, whereas the minimum reduction was in hematological tumors. Similarly, all sperm quality parameters were significantly lower in the PG-Tx group than in the fertile-men group (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: While the effect of malignancy on semen parameters is debatable, we found that all examined types of cancer significantly impaired sperm quality parameters. Although the median of most semen parameters of patients with cancer were still in the normal WHO range, their fifth percentile, represents men with a delayed time to pregnancy.
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109
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The computational study, thermodynamic parameters, and partial inhibition of spermatogenesis exhibited by toxicophores scaffolds of an organic‐inorganic hybrid complex of tributyltin (IV). Appl Organomet Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/aoc.6776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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110
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Common Variation in the PIN1 Locus Increases the Genetic Risk to Suffer from Sertoli Cell-Only Syndrome. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12060932. [PMID: 35743717 PMCID: PMC9225465 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12060932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to analyze the role of the common genetic variants located in the PIN1 locus, a relevant prolyl isomerase required to control the proliferation of spermatogonial stem cells and the integrity of the blood–testis barrier, in the genetic risk of developing male infertility due to a severe spermatogenic failure (SPGF). Genotyping was performed using TaqMan genotyping assays for three PIN1 taggers (rs2287839, rs2233678 and rs62105751). The study cohort included 715 males diagnosed with SPGF and classified as suffering from non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA, n = 505) or severe oligospermia (SO, n = 210), and 1058 controls from the Iberian Peninsula. The allelic frequency differences between cases and controls were analyzed by the means of logistic regression models. A subtype specific genetic association with the subset of NOA patients classified as suffering from the Sertoli cell-only (SCO) syndrome was observed with the minor alleles showing strong risk effects for this subset (ORaddrs2287839 = 1.85 (1.17–2.93), ORaddrs2233678 = 1.62 (1.11–2.36), ORaddrs62105751 = 1.43 (1.06–1.93)). The causal variants were predicted to affect the binding of key transcription factors and to produce an altered PIN1 gene expression and isoform balance. In conclusion, common non-coding single-nucleotide polymorphisms located in PIN1 increase the genetic risk to develop SCO.
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111
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Pedersen K, Blirup-Plum SA, Kristensen CS, Kvisgaard LK, Skade L, Jensen HE, Larsen LE. Virological and Histopathological Findings in Boars Naturally Infected With Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus Type 1. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:874498. [PMID: 35633676 PMCID: PMC9130840 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.874498] [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: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Major geographical transmission of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) occurs via semen when a boar stud is infected. This happened in Denmark in 2019, providing an opportunity to compare previous experimental PRRSV boar studies with natural PRRSV-1 infection in boars. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the presence of PRRSV RNA in serum, semen, testicles, and epididymis of boars naturally infected with PRRSV and to describe the histological lesions in the testes and epididymis combined with direct visualisation of PRRSV-infected cells by immunohistochemical staining (IHC). The exact timing of infection of each boar was not determined, but based on serology the boars were divided into two groups: acute and late infections. All boars included were sampled the same day. In this study, 35 boars and 10 healthy boars from another PRRSV-negative boar stud were included as histological controls. PRRSV RNA was found most often in serum (51%) and least frequently in semen (22%) and was more often detected in the reproductive tract in the acute phase of infection (p < 0.0001; RR: 2.58). Mononuclear cells and multinuclear giant cells were present in the adluminal compartment of the testis and epididymis in PRRSV-infected boars, but not in control boars (p < 0.05), which supports the hypothesis that macrophages are involved in the venereal spread of the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasper Pedersen
- SEGES Danish Pig Research Centre, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | | | | | - Lise Kirstine Kvisgaard
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Lotte Skade
- SEGES Danish Pig Research Centre, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Henrik Elvang Jensen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Lars Erik Larsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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112
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Adegoke EO, Rahman MS, Amjad S, Pang WK, Ryu DY, Park YJ, Pang MG. Bisphenol A damages testicular junctional proteins transgenerationally in mice. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 302:119067. [PMID: 35231543 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Testicular junctions are pivotal to male fertility and regulated by constituent proteins. Increasing evidence suggests that environmental chemicals, including bisphenol A (BPA), may impact these proteins, but whether the impacts persist for generations is not yet known. Here, we investigate the effect of BPA (a ubiquitous endocrine-disrupting chemical) on testis and sperm functions and whether the effects are transferred to subsequent generations. Male mice (F0) were exposed to corn oil (Control) or 5 or 50 mg BPA/kg body weight/day from 6 to 12 weeks of age. The F0 were mated with wild-type females to produce the first filial (F1) generation. F2 and F3 were produced using similar procedures. Our results showed that BPA doses decreased the levels of some junctional proteins partly via binding with estrogen receptors (ERα and Erβ), upregulation of p-ERK1/2, P85, p-JNK and activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling. Consequently, testicular histological abnormalities, disrupted spermatogenesis, decreased sperm count, and inability to fertilize eggs were observed in mice exposed to BPA. These effects were transferred to successive generations (F2), partly through DNA methylation, but mostly alleviated in F3 males. Our findings suggest that paternal exposure to chemicals promoting alteration of testicular junctional proteins and its transgenerational inheritance is a key component of the origin of male reproductive health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elikanah Olusayo Adegoke
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Md Saidur Rahman
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Shereen Amjad
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Ki Pang
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Yeal Ryu
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoo-Jin Park
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Geol Pang
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea.
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113
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Vogt G. Paradigm shifts in animal epigenetics: Research on non-model species leads to new insights into dependencies, functions and inheritance of DNA methylation. Bioessays 2022; 44:e2200040. [PMID: 35618444 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202200040] [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: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Recent investigations with non-model species and whole-genome approaches have challenged several paradigms in animal epigenetics. They revealed that epigenetic variation in populations is not the mere consequence of genetic variation, but is a semi-independent or independent source of phenotypic variation, depending on mode of reproduction. DNA methylation is not positively correlated with genome size and phylogenetic position as earlier believed, but has evolved differently between and within higher taxa. Epigenetic marks are usually not completely erased in the zygote and germ cells as generalized from mouse, but often persist and can be transgenerationally inherited, making them evolutionarily relevant. Gene body methylation and promoter methylation are similar in vertebrates and invertebrates with well methylated genomes but transposon silencing through methylation is variable. The new data also suggest that animals use epigenetic mechanisms to cope with rapid environmental changes and to adapt to new environments. The main benefiters are asexual populations, invaders, sessile taxa and long-lived species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Günter Vogt
- Faculty of Biosciences, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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114
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Yao M, Qu H, Han Y, Cheng CY, Xiao X. Kinesins in Mammalian Spermatogenesis and Germ Cell Transport. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:837542. [PMID: 35547823 PMCID: PMC9083010 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.837542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammalian testes, the apical cytoplasm of each Sertoli cell holds up to several dozens of germ cells, especially spermatids that are transported up and down the seminiferous epithelium. The blood-testis barrier (BTB) established by neighboring Sertoli cells in the basal compartment restructures on a regular basis to allow preleptotene/leptotene spermatocytes to pass through. The timely transfer of germ cells and other cellular organelles such as residual bodies, phagosomes, and lysosomes across the epithelium to facilitate spermatogenesis is important and requires the microtubule-based cytoskeleton in Sertoli cells. Kinesins, a superfamily of the microtubule-dependent motor proteins, are abundantly and preferentially expressed in the testis, but their functions are poorly understood. This review summarizes recent findings on kinesins in mammalian spermatogenesis, highlighting their potential role in germ cell traversing through the BTB and the remodeling of Sertoli cell-spermatid junctions to advance spermatid transport. The possibility of kinesins acting as a mediator and/or synchronizer for cell cycle progression, germ cell transit, and junctional rearrangement and turnover is also discussed. We mostly cover findings in rodents, but we also make special remarks regarding humans. We anticipate that this information will provide a framework for future research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxia Yao
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Haoyang Qu
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yating Han
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Xiao
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
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Li J, You Y, Zhang P, Huang X, Dong L, Yang F, Yu X, Chang D. Qiangjing tablets repair of blood-testis barrier dysfunction in rats via regulating oxidative stress and p38 MAPK pathway. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:133. [PMID: 35568844 PMCID: PMC9107122 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03615-z] [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: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is a physical barrier of the testis to prevent various exogenous substrates from entering apical compartments and provides immune privilege for spermatogenesis, which is essential for normal spermatogenic function of testis. It has been shown that oxidative stress can damage BTB by activating the p38 MAPK pathway. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qiangjing tablets (QJT) improve spermatogenesis and increase pregnancy rates. Previous studies have confirmed that QJT can improve sperm quality and have obvious antioxidant effects. In this study, we explore whether QJT contributes to recovery from BTB dysfunction in rats. Methods BTB dysfunction was induced in rats by 1% Cyclophosphamide (CP). The CP-induced rats in the treatment group were given a dose of QJT (0.45 g/kg·d) by gavage. Testis tissues were collected for histopathological and biochemical analysis, and the testis weight was estimated. Levels of BTB-related proteins and antioxidant enzyme were analyzed in the testis tissues. Results QJT resolved the pathological injury of rats testis induced by CP. Furthermore, MDA levels were significantly reduced, and the levels of SOD markedly increased in the testicular tissue after QJT treatment. In addition, QJT down-regulated the expression of p38 protein in rat testis and up-regulated the expressions of key proteins ZO-1, occludin and F-actin in BTB. Conclusion These results demonstrate that QJT exerts protective effects on CP-induced rats with BTB dysfunction, likely by regulating the oxidative stress-mediated p38 MAPK pathway. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-022-03615-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjun Li
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, The People's Republic of China.,The Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610041, The People's Republic of China
| | - Yaodong You
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, The People's Republic of China
| | - Peihai Zhang
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, The People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaopeng Huang
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, The People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Dong
- The Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610041, The People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Yang
- The Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610041, The People's Republic of China
| | - Xujun Yu
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, The People's Republic of China. .,School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, The People's Republic of China.
| | - Degui Chang
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, The People's Republic of China.
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Zhang L, Ji X, Ding F, Wu X, Tang N, Wu Q. Apoptosis and blood-testis barrier disruption during male reproductive dysfunction induced by PAHs of different molecular weights. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 300:118959. [PMID: 35134430 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.118959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The association between polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and male reproductive dysfunction has attracted increasing attention. The purpose of this study was to compare the male reproductive toxicity of multiple PAHs and to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms. TM4 cells (mouse testicular Sertoli cells, SCs) were treated with benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), pyrene (Py), fluoranthene (Fl) and phenanthrene (Phe) (0, 0.1, 1, 10, 50, or 100 μM) for varying time points (4, 12, 24, or 48 h), and male C57BL/6 mice were administered BaP and Py (0, 10, 50, or 100 mg/kg body weight) for 14 days based on the cell experimental results. Histopathological examination, western blotting, ELISA, biochemical assays, RT-PCR, flow cytometry, JC-1 staining and trans-epithelium electrical resistance (TEER) measurements were used to assess apoptosis, blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity, intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) concentrations and oxidative stress (OS). The results revealed that the mRNA levels and enzymatic activities of CYP450 and GST family members; levels of ROS, MDA, cleaved caspase 3 (c-caspase 3), caspase 9, Bax, and cytochrome C (CytC); and numbers of TUNEL-positive cells were significantly increased by BaP and Py, while levels of AhR, GSH, SOD, CAT, Bcl-2 and ΔΨm were decreased. Additionally, BaP and Py notably interfered with tight junctions (TJs) and adherens junctions (AJs) in the BTB. Intriguingly, BaP, but not Py, induced [Ca2+]i overload and gap junction (GJ) destruction. There was no dramatic effect of Fl and/or Phe on any of the above parameters except that slight cytotoxicity was observed with higher doses of Fl. Collectively, these findings showed that BaP and Py elicited SC apoptosis and BTB disruption involving mitochondrial dysfunction and OS, but [Ca2+]i fluctuation and GJ injury were only observed with BaP-induced reproductive toxicity. The male reproductive toxicity of the selected PAHs was ranked in the order of BaP > Py > Fl > Phe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200082, China; Department of Occupational Health and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Xiaoli Ji
- Department of Occupational Health and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200030, China; Department of Occupational Disease, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Fan Ding
- Department of Occupational Health and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Xuan Wu
- Department of Occupational Health and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Ning Tang
- Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan; Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Qing Wu
- Department of Occupational Health and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
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Endoplasmic reticulum stress promotes blood-testis barrier impairment in mice with busulfan-induced oligospermia through PERK-eIF2α signaling pathway. Toxicology 2022; 473:153193. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2022.153193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Sun F, Wang X, Zhang P, Chen Z, Guo Z, Shang X. Reproductive toxicity investigation of silica nanoparticles in male pubertal mice. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:36640-36654. [PMID: 35064498 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-18215-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs), one of the most produced nanoparticles (NPs) in the world, are used in all aspects of life. The increased application of SiNPs, especially in medicine, has raised considerable concern regarding their toxicological impact. Previous studies have shown that SiNPs can pass through the reproductive barrier and cause reproductive organ dysfunction by destroying Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and germ cells. However, little is known about the mechanism of SiNPs-induced reproductive toxicity. In the present study, 5-week-old male mice were intraperitoneally administered SiNPs per day for 1 week at a dose of 0.2 mg per mouse. The results showed that SiNPs could cause damage to the structure of the testis and the epididymis and change the reproductive organ coefficients, leading to decreases of 56.1% and 55.3% in the rates of sperm concentration and motility and an increase of 168.8% in the rate of sperm abnormality. Moreover, the serum testosterone level obviously decreased from 18.77 to 5.23 µg/ml after exposure, and the transcription statuses of some key genes involved in the synthesis and transport of testosterone in the testis were also affected. Additional experiments showed that SiNPs exposure during puberty induced oxidative stress and an inflammatory response, as shown by the changed activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), increased contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), and excess expression of proinflammatory factors, including TNF-α and IL-1β. Furthermore, the administration of SiNPs caused DNA damage and cell apoptosis, which were presented by the increased apoptotic cells in the sections of testis and epididymis and activation of the TNF-α/TNFR I-mediated pro-apoptotic pathway. In conclusion, these results indicate that SiNPs exposure during puberty significantly damaged the structure and function of the testis and epididymis by inducing oxidative stress and cell apoptosis. This study provides novel insight into SiNPs-induced reproductive toxicity during puberty, which warrants a more careful assessment of SiNPs before their application in juvenile supplies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanli Sun
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuying Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Pinzheng Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziyun Chen
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiyi Guo
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, People's Republic of China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuan Shang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, People's Republic of China.
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Zhou L, Yu Z, Xia Y, Cheng S, Gao J, Sun W, Jiang X, Zhang J, Mao L, Qin X, Zou Z, Qiu J, Chen C. Repression of autophagy leads to acrosome biogenesis disruption caused by a sub-chronic oral administration of polystyrene nanoparticles. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 163:107220. [PMID: 35381522 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
As a new widespread contaminant, nanoplastics (NPs) pose a potential risk to human health. Nevertheless, the adverse effects of NPs on the male reproductive system are poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to determine the effects of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) (50 nm) on sperm quality, with a focus on the acrosome defects. After 35 days of intragastric administration, sperm quality was decreased and testicular structures were impaired in mice exposed to PS-NPs in both the medium (1.0 mg/kg) and high dose (10 mg/kg) groups. No significant changes were observed in the low dose (0.2 mg/kg) group. Meanwhile, acrosome parameters including acrosome integrity and acrosome reaction were decreased after the administration of PS-NPs. These findings were consistent with the disruption of acrosome biogenesis, as identified by the changed testicular ultrastructure. Additionally, the findings were further validated using seven marker genes (Gba2, Pick1, Gopc, Hrb, Zpbp1, Spaca1 and Dpy19l2) essential for acrosome formation, which showed that two of these genes (Gopc and Dpy19l2) were significantly down-regulated. Moreover, repressed autophagy was observed in the testes of PS-NPs-exposed mice based on autophagy-related protein expression. This phenomenon was further verified in GC-2spd cells treated with PS-NPs (50 μg/mL, 100 μg/mL, 200 μg/mL for 24 h). The potential role of autophagy in such acrosome defects was explored by using the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA), autophagy activator rapamycin or beclin-1 siRNA. The results showed that Golgi-associated vesicle disorganization was exacerbated with the 3-MA and beclin-1 siRNA pretreatments, but decreased with the rapamycin pretreatment, and the expression of GOPC and DPY19L2 was also altered. These results indicated that autophagy might be involved in the PS-NPs-induced acrosome lesions based on the regulation of two key acrosome-formation proteins, GOPC and DPY19L2. Altogether, our results will provide new insights into the PS-NPs-induced male reproductive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixiao Zhou
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziying Yu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinyin Xia
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuqun Cheng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Jieying Gao
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuejun Jiang
- Center of Experimental Teaching for Public Health, Experimental Teaching and Management Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Dongsheng Lung-Brain Disease Joint Lab, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Dongsheng Lung-Brain Disease Joint Lab, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Molecular Biology Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Lejiao Mao
- Dongsheng Lung-Brain Disease Joint Lab, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Molecular Biology Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Qin
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Zou
- Dongsheng Lung-Brain Disease Joint Lab, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Molecular Biology Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jingfu Qiu
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Chengzhi Chen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Dongsheng Lung-Brain Disease Joint Lab, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
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Kabbesh H, Bulldan A, Konrad L, Scheiner-Bobis G. The Role of ZIP9 and Androgen Receptor in the Establishment of Tight Junctions between Adult Rat Sertoli Cells. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11050668. [PMID: 35625396 PMCID: PMC9138102 DOI: 10.3390/biology11050668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is formed from tight junctions (TJs) between Sertoli cells. This dynamic structure, which establishes an immune-privileged environment protecting haploid germ cells formed in puberty from cells of the innate immune system, protects male fertility. Testosterone produced in Leydig cells is one of the main regulators of TJ protein expression and BTB dynamics. Nevertheless, although it has been assumed that testosterone effects on TJs and BTB are mediated through the classical androgen receptor (AR), newer results call the importance of this receptor into question. ZIP9, a recently identified androgen receptor of plasma membranes, mediates testosterone effects that promote the expression of TJ proteins and TJ formation in a rat Sertoli cell line that lacks the classical AR. Although these findings suggest that ZIP9 mediates these testosterone effects, participation of the classical AR in these events cannot be excluded. Here we used immortalized adult rat Sertoli cells that express both ZIP9 and AR and addressed the involvement of these receptors in the stimulation of TJ protein expression and TJ formation in response to testosterone and to the androgenic peptide IAPG that acts via ZIP9. We find that both testosterone and IAPG trigger the so-called non-classical signaling pathway of testosterone and stimulate the expression of TJ-associated proteins and TJ formation. Silencing classical AR expression had no effect on the responses, whereas silencing of ZIP9 expression completely blocked them. Our results demonstrate that ZIP9 is the sole androgen receptor involved in the regulation of TJ protein expression and TJ formation at the BTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Kabbesh
- Institute for Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Frankfurter Str., D-35392 Giessen, Germany; (H.K.); (A.B.)
- Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Feulgenstr. 10-12, D-35392 Giessen, Germany;
| | - Ahmed Bulldan
- Institute for Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Frankfurter Str., D-35392 Giessen, Germany; (H.K.); (A.B.)
| | - Lutz Konrad
- Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Feulgenstr. 10-12, D-35392 Giessen, Germany;
| | - Georgios Scheiner-Bobis
- Institute for Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Frankfurter Str., D-35392 Giessen, Germany; (H.K.); (A.B.)
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Chen TA, Lin KY, Yang SM, Tseng CY, Wang YT, Lin CH, Luo L, Cai Y, Hsu HJ. Canonical Wnt Signaling Promotes Formation of Somatic Permeability Barrier for Proper Germ Cell Differentiation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:877047. [PMID: 35517512 PMCID: PMC9062081 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.877047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Morphogen-mediated signaling is critical for proper organ development and stem cell function, and well-characterized mechanisms spatiotemporally limit the expression of ligands, receptors, and ligand-binding cell-surface glypicans. Here, we show that in the developing Drosophila ovary, canonical Wnt signaling promotes the formation of somatic escort cells (ECs) and their protrusions, which establish a physical permeability barrier to define morphogen territories for proper germ cell differentiation. The protrusions shield germ cells from Dpp and Wingless morphogens produced by the germline stem cell (GSC) niche and normally only received by GSCs. Genetic disruption of EC protrusions allows GSC progeny to also receive Dpp and Wingless, which subsequently disrupt germ cell differentiation. Our results reveal a role for canonical Wnt signaling in specifying the ovarian somatic cells necessary for germ cell differentiation. Additionally, we demonstrate the morphogen-limiting function of this physical permeability barrier, which may be a common mechanism in other organs across species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-An Chen
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kun-Yang Lin
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shun-Min Yang
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Chen-Yuan Tseng
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ting Wang
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hung Lin
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lichao Luo
- Temasek Life Science Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yu Cai
- Temasek Life Science Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hwei-Jan Hsu
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Hwei-Jan Hsu,
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Zheng Y, Gao Q, Li T, Liu R, Cheng Z, Guo M, Xiao J, Wu D, Zeng W. Sertoli cell and spermatogonial development in pigs. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2022; 13:45. [PMID: 35399096 PMCID: PMC8996595 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-022-00687-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spermatogenesis is an intricate developmental process during which undifferentiated spermatogonia, containing spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), undergo self-renewal and differentiation to generate eventually mature spermatozoa. Spermatogenesis occurs in seminiferous tubules within the testis, and the seminiferous tubules harbor Sertoli and germ cells. Sertoli cells are an essential somatic cell type within the microenvironment that support and steer male germ cell development, whereas spermatogonia are the primitive male germ cells at the onset of spermatogenesis. While the developmental progression of Sertoli cells and spermatogonia has been well established in mice, much less is known in other mammalian species including pigs. Results To acquire knowledge of Sertoli cell and spermatogonial development in pigs, here we collected as many as nine ages of Duroc porcine testes from the neonate to sexual maturity, i.e., testes from 7-, 30-, 50-, 70-, 90-, 110-, 130-, 150- and 210-day-old boars, and performed histological and immunohistochemical analyses on testis sections. We first examined the development of spermatogenic cells and seminiferous tubules in porcine testes. Then, by immunofluorescence staining for marker proteins (AMH, SOX9, DBA, UCHL1, VASA, KIT, Ki67 and/or PCNA), we delved into the proliferative activity and development of Sertoli cells and of spermatogonial subtypes (pro-, undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia). Besides, by immunostaining for β-catenin and ZO-1, we studied the establishment of the blood-testis barrier in porcine testes. Conclusions In this longitudinal study, we have systematically investigated the elaborate Sertoli cell and spermatogonial developmental patterns in pigs from the neonate to sexual maturity that have so far remained largely unknown. The findings not only extend the knowledge about spermatogenesis and testicular development in pigs, but also lay the theoretical groundwork for porcine breeding and rearing.
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Fang L, Feng R, Liang W, Liu FF, Bian GL, Yu C, Guo H, Cao Y, Liu M, Zuo J, Peng Y, Zhao J, Sun RX, Shan J, Wang J. Overexpression of PD-L1 causes germ cells to slough from mouse seminiferous tubules via the PD-L1/PD-L1 interaction. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:2908-2920. [PMID: 35384279 PMCID: PMC9097848 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a cyclical process in which different generations of spermatids undergo a series of developmental steps at a fixed time and finally produce spermatids. Here, we report that overexpression of PD‐L1 (B7 homolog1) in the testis causes sperm developmental disorders and infertility in male mice, with severe malformation and sloughing during spermatid development, characterized by disorganized and collapsed seminiferous epithelium structure. PD‐L1 needs to be simultaneously expressed on Sertoli cells and spermatogonia to cause spermatogenesis failure. After that, we excluded the influence of factors such as the PD‐L1 receptor and humoral regulation, confirming that PD‐L1 has an intrinsic function to interact with PD‐L1. Studies have shown that PD‐L1 not only serves as a ligand but also plays a receptor‐like role in signal transduction. PD‐L1 interacts with PD‐L1 to affect the adhesive function of germ cells, causing malformation and spermatid sloughing. Taken together, these results indicate that PD‐L1 can interact with PD‐L1 to cause germ cell detachment and male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian Fang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui Feng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, LKS faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Weiye Liang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fang-Fang Liu
- Institue of Neurosciences, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Gan-Lan Bian
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Caiyong Yu
- Military Medical Innovation Center, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hongmin Guo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Yihui Cao
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingkai Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia Zuo
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yinglong Peng
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui-Xia Sun
- Bioscience Laboratory, BIOS bioscience and Technology Limited Company, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiajie Shan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China.,Bioscience Laboratory, BIOS bioscience and Technology Limited Company, Guangzhou, China
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Zhu L, Guan Y, Li X, Xiong X, Liu J, Wang Z. BPA disrupts the SC barrier integrity by activating the cytokines/JNK signaling pathway in rare minnow Gobiocypris rarus. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 245:106124. [PMID: 35193009 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2022.106124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol-A (BPA) has been reported to disrupt blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity in mammals. However, its effects on fish testis sertoli cell (SC) barrier and the underlying mechanisms have been largely unknown to date. To study the SC barrier toxicity induced by BPA, male rare minnows (Gobiocypris rarus) were exposed to 15 μg L - 1 BPA for 7, 14 and 21 d. Meanwhile, a 25 ng L-1 17α-ethynyl estradiol (EE2) group was set up as the positive control. Results showed that BPA induced immune response in the testes and decreased offspring hatching rate. The biotin tracer assay showed that BPA exposure destroyed the integrity of the testis SC barrier. In addition, BPA exposure decreased the expressions of occludin, ZO-1, CX43 and N-cadherin proteins. The transcripts of CX43 and occludin were significantly decreased and SP1 recruitment in each gene promoter was repressed after BPA exposure. Moreover, the cytokines (TNFα and IL-1β) were significantly increased while the JNK signal pathway was activated after BPA exposure. BPA also increased the matrix metalloproteinases 1 (MMP1) and MMP2 levels in the testes. In addition, estrogenic effect did not entirely explain the mechanism by which BPA disrupted the SC barrier in G. rarus testes. These results suggested that BPA disrupted the SC barrier integrity by inhibiting SP1 enrichments within CX43 and occludin 5' flanking regions through activated cytokines/JNK signaling pathway. MMPs were also involved in the disruption of SC barrier caused by BPA exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Yongjing Guan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xuening Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xiaofan Xiong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jialin Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Zaizhao Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
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Li L, Gao S, Wang L, Bu T, Chu J, Lv L, Tahir A, Mao B, Li H, Li X, Wang Y, Wu X, Ge R, Cheng CY. PCP Protein Inversin Regulates Testis Function Through Changes in Cytoskeletal Organization of Actin and Microtubules. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6519617. [PMID: 35106541 PMCID: PMC8870424 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Inversin is an integrated component of the Frizzled (Fzd)/Dishevelled (Dvl)/Diversin planar cell polarity (PCP) complex that is known to work in concert with the Van Gogh-like protein (eg, Vangl2)/Prickle PCP complex to support tissue and organ development including the brain, kidney, pancreas, and others. These PCP protein complexes are also recently shown to confer developing haploid spermatid PCP to support spermatogenesis in adult rat testes. However, with the exception of Dvl3 and Vangl2, other PCP proteins have not been investigated in the testis. Herein, we used the technique of RNA interference (RNAi) to examine the role of inversin (Invs) in Sertoli cell (SC) and testis function by corresponding studies in vitro and in vivo. When inversin was silenced by RNAi using specific small interfering RNA duplexes by transfecting primary cultures of SCs in vitro or testes in vivo, it was shown that inversin knockdown (KD) perturbed the SC tight junction-barrier function in vitro and in vivo using corresponding physiological and integrity assays. More important, inversin exerted its regulatory effects through changes in the organization of the actin and microtubule cytoskeletons, including reducing the ability of their polymerization. These changes, in turn, induced defects in spermatogenesis by loss of spermatid polarity, disruptive distribution of blood-testis barrier-associated proteins at the SC-cell interface, appearance of multinucleated round spermatids, and defects in the release of sperm at spermiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
- Correspondence: Linxi Li, PhD, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
| | - Sheng Gao
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Tiao Bu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Jinjin Chu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Lixiu Lv
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Anam Tahir
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Baiping Mao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Huitao Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xiaoheng Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
- Correspondence: C. Yan Cheng, PhD, Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China. ;
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Komili K, Söyler G, Toros P, Çalış İ, Kükner A. Effects of Corchorus Olitorius and Protocatechuic Acid on Cadmium-Induced Rat Testicular Tissue Degeneration. CYPRUS JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.4274/cjms.2020.1970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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127
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Wang A, Wan Y, Zhou L, Xia W, Guo Y, Mahai G, Yang Z, Xu S, Zhang R. Neonicotinoid insecticide metabolites in seminal plasma: Associations with semen quality. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 811:151407. [PMID: 34808154 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Animal studies have revealed that exposure to neonicotinoid insecticides (NNIs) could compromise male reproductive function; however, related data on the occurrence of NNIs and their specific metabolites in human seminal plasma are scarce. To explore the potential effects of NNI exposure on male semen quality, we determined the concentrations of NNIs and some of their metabolites (collectively defined as mNNIs) in seminal plasma samples collected from men (n = 191) who visited a fertility clinic in Shijiazhuang, North China from 2018 to 2019. Associations between the mNNI concentrations and semen quality parameters were assessed using linear regression models, adjusting for important covariates. In the seminal plasma samples, desmethyl-acetamiprid (DM-ACE, detection frequency: 98.4%), imidacloprid-olefin (IMI-olefin, detection frequency: 86.5%), and desmethyl-clothianidin (DM-CLO, detection frequency: 70.8%) were frequently detected at median concentrations of 0.052, 0.003, and 0.007 ng/mL, respectively; meanwhile other compounds were detected at less than the method detection limits. In the single-mNNI models, the IMI-olefin concentration was associated with decreased progressive motility [IMI-olefin concentration: percent change (%Δ) = -17.0; 95% confidence interval (CI) = -30.3, -0.92; the highest tertile compared with the lowest tertile: %Δ = -21.1; 95% CI = -37.5, -0.23]. Similar results were found in the multiple-mNNIs models. No other inverse associations were found between the other mNNI concentrations and semen quality parameters. This is the first study to identify the occurrence of mNNIs in the seminal plasma and the potential associations of their concentrations with human semen quality parameters. These findings imply an inverse association between the IMI-olefin concentration and semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aizhen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, PR China
| | - Yanjian Wan
- Institute of Environmental Health, Wuhan Centers for Disease Prevention & Control, Wuhan, Hubei 430024, PR China
| | - Lixiao Zhou
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, PR China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Environment and Human Health, Shijiazhuang 050017, PR China
| | - Wei Xia
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, PR China.
| | - Yinsheng Guo
- Environment and Health Department, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, PR China
| | - Gaga Mahai
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, PR China
| | | | - Shunqing Xu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, PR China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, PR China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Environment and Human Health, Shijiazhuang 050017, PR China.
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128
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Killion EA, Hussien R, Shkumatov A, Davies R, Lloyd DJ, Véniant MM, Lebrec H, Fort MM. GIPR gene expression in testis is mouse-specific and can impact male mouse fertility. Andrology 2022; 10:789-799. [PMID: 35224888 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13166] [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: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (Gipr) gene expression has been reported in mouse spermatids and Gipr knockout (KO) male mice have previously been reported to have decreased in vitro fertilization, although the role of Gipr signaling in male mouse fertility is not well understood. OBJECTIVES The purposes of these studies were to determine the role of GIPR in male fertility using Gipr KO mice and anti-GIPR antibody treated wild-type mice and to determine if the expression of Gipr in mouse testes is similar in non-human and human primates. METHODS AND MATERIALS Adiponectin promoter-driven Gipr knockout male mice (GiprAdipo-/- ) were assessed for in vitro and in vivo fertility, sperm parameters, and testicular histology. CD1 male mice were administered an anti-GIPR antibody (muGIPR-Ab) prior to and during mating for assessment of in vivo fertility and sperm parameters. Expression of Gipr/GIPR mRNA in the mouse, cynomolgus monkey, and human testes was assessed by in situ hybridization methods using species-specific probes. RESULTS GiprAdipo-/- male mice are infertile in vitro and in vivo, despite normal testis morphology, sperm counts and sperm motility. In contrast, administration of muGIPR-Ab to CD1 male mice did not impact fertility. While Gipr mRNA expression is detectable in the mouse testes, GIPR mRNA expression is not detectable in monkey or human testes. DISCUSSION The infertility of GiprAdipo-/- male mice correlated with the lack of Gipr expression in the testis and/or adipocyte tissue. However, as administration of muGIPR-Ab did not impact the fertility of adult male mice, it is possible that the observations in genetically deficient male mice are related to Gipr-deficiency during development. CONCLUSION Our data support a role for Gipr expression in the mouse testis during the development of sperm fertilization potential, but based on gene expression data, a similar role for GIPR in non-human primate or human male fertility is unlikely. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Killion
- Amgen Research, Department of Cardiometabolic Disorders, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA
| | - Rajaa Hussien
- Amgen Research, Department of Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen Inc, South San Francisco, CA
| | - Artem Shkumatov
- Amgen Research, Department of Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen Inc, South San Francisco, CA
| | - Rhian Davies
- Amgen Research, Department of Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen Inc, South San Francisco, CA
| | - David J Lloyd
- Amgen Research, Department of Cardiometabolic Disorders, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA.,D.L. is currently at Carmot Therapeutics, Inc
| | - Murielle M Véniant
- Amgen Research, Department of Cardiometabolic Disorders, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA
| | - Herve Lebrec
- Amgen Research, Department of Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen Inc, South San Francisco, CA.,H.L. is currently at Sonoma Biotherapeutics, Inc
| | - Madeline M Fort
- Amgen Research, Department of Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen Inc, South San Francisco, CA
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129
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Wang L, Bu T, Wu X, Gao S, Li X, De Jesus AB, Wong CKC, Chen H, Chung NPY, Sun F, Cheng CY. Cell-Cell Interaction-Mediated Signaling in the Testis Induces Reproductive Dysfunction—Lesson from the Toxicant/Pharmaceutical Models. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040591. [PMID: 35203242 PMCID: PMC8869896 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence has shown that cell-cell interactions between testicular cells, in particular at the Sertoli cell-cell and Sertoli-germ cell interface, are crucial to support spermatogenesis. The unique ultrastructures that support cell-cell interactions in the testis are the basal ES (ectoplasmic specialization) and the apical ES. The basal ES is found between adjacent Sertoli cells near the basement membrane that also constitute the blood-testis barrier (BTB). The apical ES is restrictively expressed at the Sertoli-spermatid contact site in the apical (adluminal) compartment of the seminiferous epithelium. These ultrastructures are present in both rodent and human testes, but the majority of studies found in the literature were done in rodent testes. As such, our discussion herein, unless otherwise specified, is focused on studies in testes of adult rats. Studies have shown that the testicular cell-cell interactions crucial to support spermatogenesis are mediated through distinctive signaling proteins and pathways, most notably involving FAK, Akt1/2 and Cdc42 GTPase. Thus, manipulation of some of these signaling proteins, such as FAK, through the use of phosphomimetic mutants for overexpression in Sertoli cell epithelium in vitro or in the testis in vivo, making FAK either constitutively active or inactive, we can modify the outcome of spermatogenesis. For instance, using the toxicant-induced Sertoli cell or testis injury in rats as study models, we can either block or rescue toxicant-induced infertility through overexpression of p-FAK-Y397 or p-FAK-Y407 (and their mutants), including the use of specific activator(s) of the involved signaling proteins against pAkt1/2. These findings thus illustrate that a potential therapeutic approach can be developed to manage toxicant-induced male reproductive dysfunction. In this review, we critically evaluate these recent findings, highlighting the direction for future investigations by bringing the laboratory-based research through a translation path to clinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Wang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Tiao Bu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Sheng Gao
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Xinyao Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | | | - Chris K. C. Wong
- Department of Biology, Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Hao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Nancy P. Y. Chung
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (C.Y.C.)
| | - C. Yan Cheng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (C.Y.C.)
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Ma Q, You X, Zhu K, Zhao X, Yuan D, Wang T, Dun Y, Wu J, Ren D, Zhang C, Zhao H. Changes in the tight junctions of the testis during aging: Role of the p38 MAPK/MMP9 pathway and autophagy in Sertoli cells. Exp Gerontol 2022; 161:111729. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2022.111729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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131
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Wang S, Qian Z, Ge X, Li C, Xue M, Liang K, Ma R, Ouyang L, Zheng L, Jing J, Cao S, Zhang Y, Yang Y, Chen Y, Ma J, Yao B. LncRNA Tug1 maintains blood-testis barrier integrity by modulating Ccl2 expression in high-fat diet mice. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:114. [PMID: 35103851 PMCID: PMC11073184 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04142-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells are essential for spermatogenesis in the testicular seminiferous tubules by forming blood-testis barrier (BTB) and creating a unique microenvironment for spermatogenesis. Many lncRNAs have been reported to participate in spermatogenesis. However, the role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in Sertoli cells has rarely been examined. Herein, we found that a high-fat diet (HFD) decreased sperm quality, impaired BTB integrity and resulted in accumulation of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), especially palmitic acid (PA), in mouse testes. PA decreased the expression of tight junction (TJ)-related proteins, increased permeability and decreased transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) in primary Sertoli cells and TM4 cells. Moreover, lncRNA Tug1 was found to be involved in PA-induced BTB disruption by RNA-seq. Tug1 depletion distinctly impaired the TJs of Sertoli cells and overexpression of Tug1 alleviated the disruption of BTB integrity induced by PA. Moreover, Ccl2 was found to be a downstream target of Tug1, and decreased TJ-related protein levels and TER and increased FITC-dextran permeability in vitro. Furthermore, the addition of Ccl2 damaged BTB integrity after overexpression of Tug1 in the presence of PA. Mechanistically, we found that Tug1 could directly bind to EZH2 and regulate H3K27me3 occupancy in the Ccl2 promoter region by RNA immunoprecipitation and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Our study revealed an important role of Tug1 in the BTB integrity of Sertoli cells and provided a new view of the role of lncRNAs in male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuxian Wang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhang Qian
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xie Ge
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chuwei Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mengqi Xue
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kuan Liang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rujun Ma
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Ouyang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lu Zheng
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun Jing
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Siyuan Cao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Basic Medical Laboratory, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yabing Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory and State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China
| | - Jinzhao Ma
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Bing Yao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China.
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China.
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Lee YC, Tsai KW, Liao JB, Kuo WT, Chang YC, Yang YF. High expression of tight junction protein 1 as a predictive biomarker for bladder cancer grade and staging. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1496. [PMID: 35087173 PMCID: PMC8795112 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05631-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Tight junction proteins 1-3 (TJP1-3) are components of tight junctions that can link transmembrane proteins to the actin cytoskeleton, and their incidence directly correlates to metastasis. However, the role of the TJP family in bladder cancer has not been adequately evaluated. In this study, we evaluated the genetic changes, mRNA and protein expressions of the target genes of the TJP family in bladder cancer patients using online database and immunohistochemistry, respectively. We found that TJP1 was amplified in bladder cancer tissue and that the protein expression levels were significantly associated with age (p = 0.03), grade (p = 0.007), and stage (p = 0.011). We also examined the correlation between TJP1 and other high-frequency mutation genes using TIMER. TJP1 mRNA levels were positively correlated with TTN and RYR3 mRNA levels in bladder cancer tissue. Taken together, TJP1 expression is associated with poor clinical outcomes in patients with bladder cancer and can be a useful predictive biomarker for bladder cancer staging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Chen Lee
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Wang Tsai
- Department of Research, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Bin Liao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Ting Kuo
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chan Chang
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Fang Yang
- Department of Medical Education and Research, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No. 386, Dajhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist., Kaohsiung, 81362, Taiwan.
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Action and Interaction between Retinoic Acid Signaling and Blood–Testis Barrier Function in the Spermatogenesis Cycle. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030352. [PMID: 35159162 PMCID: PMC8834282 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process occurring in mammalian testes, and constant sperm production depends on the exact regulation of the microenvironment in the testes. Many studies have indicated the crucial role of blood–testis barrier (BTB) junctions and retinoic acid (RA) signaling in the spermatogenesis process. The BTB consists of junctions between adjacent Sertoli cells, comprised mainly of tight junctions and gap junctions. In vitamin A-deficient mice, halted spermatogenesis could be rebooted by RA or vitamin A administration, indicating that RA is absolutely required for spermatogenesis. Accordingly, this manuscript will review and discuss how RA and the BTB regulate spermatogenesis and the interaction between RA signaling and BTB function.
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134
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Liu JB, Chen K, Li ZF, Wang ZY, Wang L. Glyphosate-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis facilitates male reproductive toxicity in rats. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 805:150368. [PMID: 34543792 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate (GLY), a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, can result in gut microbiota dysbiosis intimately involving various diseases. The latest research has shown an association between gut microbiota alteration and defective spermatogenesis. Here, we aimed to investigate whether GLY-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis contributed to male reproductive toxicity. Data showed that GLY-exposed rats exhibited male reproductive dysfunction, evidenced by impaired testis architectural structure, reduced sperm motility, together with increased sperm malformation ratio. 16S rDNA sequencing analysis indicated that GLY exposure altered the composition of gut commensal microbiota, of which the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes phyla was significantly changed. Unexpectedly, the increased abundance of Prevotella_1 and Bacteroides genera was negatively correlated with sperm quality. Mechanistically, the pathological changes in GLY-exposed testis were accompanied by the increased interleukin (IL)-17A production, probably due to gut microbes-derived Th17 cell migration. Furthermore, activation of IL-17A signaling triggered testicular oxidative damage. Taken together, these findings uncover an underlying mechanistic scenario that gut microbiota dysbiosis-driven local IL-17A production is one reason responsible for male reproductive toxicity induced by GLY, which provides new insights into the male reproductive toxicity of GLY in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Bo Liu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China
| | - Kai Chen
- New Drug Evaluation Center of Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 989 Xinluo Street, Ji'nan City 250101, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zi-Fa Li
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan City 250355, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zhen-Yong Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China
| | - Lin Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China.
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135
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Changes in Expression of Specific mRNA Transcripts after Single- or Re-Irradiation in Mouse Testes. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13010151. [PMID: 35052491 PMCID: PMC8775240 DOI: 10.3390/genes13010151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Alkylating agents and irradiation induce testicular damage, which results in prolonged azoospermia. Even very low doses of radiation can significantly impair testis function. However, re-irradiation is an effective strategy for locally targeted treatments and the pain response and has seen important advances in the field of radiation oncology. At present, little is known about the relationship between the harmful effects and accumulated dose of irradiation derived from continuous low-dose radiation exposure. In this study, we examined the levels of mRNA transcripts encoding markers of 13 markers of germ cell differentiation and 28 Sertoli cell-specific products in single- and re-irradiated mice. Our results demonstrated that re-irradiation induced significantly decreased testicular weights with a significant decrease in germ cell differentiation mRNA species (Spo11, Tnp1, Gfra1, Oct4, Sycp3, Ddx4, Boll, Crem, Prm1, and Acrosin). In the 13 Sertoli cell-specific mRNA species decreased upon irradiation, six mRNA species (Claudin-11,Espn, Fshr, GATA1, Inhbb, and Wt1) showed significant differences between single- and re-irradiation. At the same time, different decreases in Sertoli cell-specific mRNA species were found in single-irradiation (Aqp8, Clu, Cst12, and Wnt5a) and re-irradiation (Tjp1, occludin,ZO-1, and ZO-2) mice. These results indicate that long-term aspermatogenesis may differ after single- and re-irradiated treatment.
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136
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Liu JB, Li ZF, Lu L, Wang ZY, Wang L. Glyphosate damages blood-testis barrier via NOX1-triggered oxidative stress in rats: Long-term exposure as a potential risk for male reproductive health. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 159:107038. [PMID: 34906888 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.107038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Blood-testis barrier (BTB) creates a privileged niche indispensable for spermatogenesis. Glyphosate (GLY), the most commonly used herbicide worldwide, has been reported to decrease sperm quality. However, whether and how GLY destroys the BTB to affect sperm quality remains to be elucidated. Herein, this study was designed to investigate the influence of GLY on the BTB in vivo and in vitro experiments. The results showed that male rats exposed to GLY for 4 months exhibited a decrease in sperm quality and quantity, accompanied by BTB integrity disruption and testicular oxidative stress. Additionally, GLY-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) contributed to the downregulation of BTB-related proteins in primary Sertoli cells (SCs). Intriguingly, we identified a marked upregulation of oxidative stress-related gene NOX1 in GLY-exposed testis based on transcriptome analysis. NOX1 knockdown blocked the GLY-induced oxidative stress, as well as prevented BTB-related protein decrease in SCs. Furthermore, the estrogen receptor (ER)-α was significantly upregulated in vivo and in vitro models. An ER-α inhibitor decreased the expression levels of both ER-α and NOX1. Mechanistically, GLY directly interacted with ER-α at the site of Pro39 and Lys401 to promote ER-α activation, which boosted NOX1 expression to trigger ROS accumulation. Collectively, these results demonstrate that long-term GLY exposure adversely affects BTB integrity, which disrupts spermatogenesis via activation of ER-α/NOX1 axis. This study presents a better understanding of the risk of long-term GLY exposure to male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Bo Liu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zi-Fa Li
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan City 250355, Shandong Province, China
| | - Lu Lu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zhen-Yong Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China
| | - Lin Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China; Shandong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Street, Tai'an City 271018, Shandong Province, China.
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137
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Involvement of TauT/SLC6A6 in Taurine Transport at the Blood-Testis Barrier. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12010066. [PMID: 35050188 PMCID: PMC8782047 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12010066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Taurine transport was investigated at the blood–testis barrier (BTB) formed by Sertoli cells. An integration plot analysis of mice showed the apparent influx permeability clearance of [3H]taurine (27.7 μL/(min·g testis)), which was much higher than that of a non-permeable paracellular marker, suggesting blood-to-testis transport of taurine, which may involve a facilitative taurine transport system at the BTB. A mouse Sertoli cell line, TM4 cells, showed temperature- and concentration-dependent [3H]taurine uptake with a Km of 13.5 μM, suggesting that the influx transport of taurine at the BTB involves a carrier-mediated process. [3H]Taurine uptake by TM4 cells was significantly reduced by the substrates of taurine transporter (TauT/SLC6A6), such as β-alanine, hypotaurine, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and guanidinoacetic acid (GAA), with no significant effect shown by L-alanine, probenecid, and L-leucine. In addition, the concentration-dependent inhibition of [3H]taurine uptake revealed an IC50 of 378 μM for GABA. Protein expression of TauT in the testis, seminiferous tubules, and TM4 cells was confirmed by Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry by means of anti-TauT antibodies, and knockdown of TauT showed significantly decreased [3H]taurine uptake by TM4 cells. These results suggest the involvement of TauT in the transport of taurine at the BTB.
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138
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Zafar MI, Yu J, Li H. Implications of RNA Viruses in the Male Reproductive Tract: An Outlook on SARS-CoV-2. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:783963. [PMID: 35003013 PMCID: PMC8739959 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.783963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging viral infections continuously pose a threat to human wellbeing. Several RNA viruses have managed to establish access to the male reproductive tract and persist in human semen. The sexual transmission of the virus is of critical public concern. The epidemiological inferences are essential to understand its complexity, particularly the probability of viral transmission from asymptomatic patients or those in the incubation period or from the patient who was previously infected and now fully recovered. From the clinical perspective, negative impacts in the male reproductive tract associated with RNA virus infection have been described, including orchitis, epididymitis, impaired spermatogenesis, and a decrease in sperm quality, which can affect male fertility at different time intervals. The disruption of anatomical barriers due to inflammatory responses might enable the viral invasion into the testis, and the immune privilege status of testes might facilitate a sustained persistence of the virus in the semen. In this review, the current knowledge about other RNA viruses that affect male reproductive health provides the framework to discuss the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The molecular mechanisms, sexual transmission, and viral impacts for mumps, HIV, Zika, and Ebola viruses are explored. We discuss the currently available information on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 and its sequelae in the male reproductive tract, particularly regarding presence in semen, its impact on sexual organs, and sperm quality. To date, no sexual transmission of SARS-CoV-2 has been reported, whereas the identification of viral particles in semen remains conflicting. In the purview of the earlier conducted analyses, it is essential to investigate further the long-term health impacts of SARS-CoV-2 on the male reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ishraq Zafar
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiangyu Yu
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Department of Reproductive Medicine, Central Theater Command General Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
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139
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Sidhom K, Panchendrabose K, Mann U, Patel P. An update on male infertility and intratesticular testosterone-insight into novel serum biomarkers. Int J Impot Res 2022; 34:673-678. [PMID: 34987179 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-021-00507-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Intratesticular testosterone is vital for spermatogenesis, male fertility, and virility. Currently the only method to assess levels of intratesticular testosterone is to perform testicular biopsy which is invasive and can lead to several complications. Approaches to assess intratesticular testosterone have been understudied but hold promise as future male contraceptive agents and may grant the ability to monitor patients undergoing hormonal changes from therapeutic and diagnostic perspectives. Previous studies have sought to assess the utility of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) and insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) as accurate surrogate biomarkers of intratesticular testosterone. The aim of this review is thus to highlight the importance of intratesticular testosterone and the consequent advances that have been made to elucidate the potential of biomarkers for intratesticular testosterone in the context of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Sidhom
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | - Uday Mann
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Section of Urology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Premal Patel
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada. .,Section of Urology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
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140
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Abstract
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) serves as the essential source of cellular energy. Over the last two decades, however, ATP has also attracted increasing interest as an extracellular signal that activates purinergic plasma membrane receptors of the P2 family. P2 receptors are divided into two types: ATP-gated nonselective cation channels (P2X) and G protein-coupled receptors (P2Y), the latter being activated by a broad range of purine and pyrimidine nucleotides (ATP, ADP, UTP, and UDP, among others). Purinergic signaling mechanisms are involved in numerous physiological events and pathophysiological conditions. Here, we address the growing body of evidence implicating purinergic signaling in male reproductive system functions. The life-long generation of fertile male germ cells is a highly complex, yet mechanistically poorly understood process. Given the relatively sparse innervation of the testis, spermatogenesis relies on both endocrine control and multi-directional paracrine communication. Therefore, a detailed understanding of such paracrine messengers, including ATP, is crucial to gain mechanistic insight into male reproduction..
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Mundt
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Chemosensation, Institute for Biology II, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Research Training Group 2416 MultiSenses – MultiScales, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Nadine Mundt,
| | - Lina Kenzler
- Department of Chemosensation, Institute for Biology II, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Marc Spehr
- Department of Chemosensation, Institute for Biology II, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Research Training Group 2416 MultiSenses – MultiScales, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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141
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Maurya S, Bhoi NR, Kesari KK, Roychoudhury S, Kumar D. In Silico Analysis of CatSper Family Genes and APOB Gene Regulation in Male Infertility. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1391:323-332. [PMID: 36472830 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-12966-7_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Sperm concentration and sperm motility are the two major causes of male infertility. Having spermatozoa in semen without motility or flagellum tail defect is a major concern needed to be investigated. The CatSper genes are the novel family of four sperm-specific Ca2+-permeable channels which plays an important role in sperm motility, acrosome reaction, sperm, and oocyte fusion. CatSper1, CatSper2, and CatSper3 are very well-studied genes for their role in asthenozoospermia, but the association of these genes with metabolic genes is still unstudied. Another unrevealed aspect is how ROS alter the function of CatSper genes. Among the Catsper family genes, the role of CatSper4 gene must be explored more. In this study, we have used the in silico approach to find the connection between the CatSper family gene with glycolytic genes and also the involvement of CATSPER4 protein in sperm flagellum using the STRING database. Connection of CATSPER1 protein with lipid metabolic gene is also found in Reactome database, and after that gene ontology of these genes was done by using DAVID and Enrichr databases. This analysis showed a strong interaction between CATSPER1, CATSPER2, and CATSPER3 protein with glycolytic protein (i.e., GAPDHS and PGK2), and CATSPER4 protein shows strong relation in the function of sperm flagellum. We also found a novel gene, i.e., APOB contributing to sperm motility. Gene ontology showed the role of APOB and glycolytic proteins in sperm motility. Enrichr analysis showed the association of APOB and glycolytic proteins in asthenozoospermia and CATSPER4 protein with sperm flagellum. Elsevier Pathway Collection also showed proteins involved in male infertility (i.e., GAPDHS). Therefore, we report the role of the CatSper4 gene in sperm tail function and the APOB novel gene involved in sperm motility. Understanding the molecular mechanism(s) of regulations of the CatSper family gene will help us to develop new therapeutic approaches in infertile males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujata Maurya
- School of Health Sciences & Technology, UPES University, Dehradun, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Nihar Ranjan Bhoi
- Indira IVF Hospital, Indira Fertility Academy, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | | | | | - Dhruv Kumar
- School of Health Sciences & Technology, UPES University, Dehradun, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.
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142
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Ullah S, Ahmad S, Guo X, Ullah S, Ullah S, Nabi G, Wanghe K. A review of the endocrine disrupting effects of micro and nano plastic and their associated chemicals in mammals. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1084236. [PMID: 36726457 PMCID: PMC9885170 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1084236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the years, the vaste expansion of plastic manufacturing has dramatically increased the environmental impact of microplastics [MPs] and nanoplastics [NPs], making them a threat to marine and terrestrial biota because they contain endocrine disrupting chemicals [EDCs] and other harmful compounds. MPs and NPs have deleteriouse impacts on mammalian endocrine components such as hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, testes, and ovaries. MPs and NPs absorb and act as a transport medium for harmful chemicals such as bisphenols, phthalates, polybrominated diphenyl ether, polychlorinated biphenyl ether, organotin, perfluorinated compounds, dioxins, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, organic contaminants, and heavy metals, which are commonly used as additives in plastic production. As the EDCs are not covalently bonded to plastics, they can easily leach into milk, water, and other liquids affecting the endocrine system of mammals upon exposure. The toxicity induced by MPs and NPs is size-dependent, as smaller particles have better absorption capacity and larger surface area, releasing more EDC and toxic chemicals. Various EDCs contained or carried by MPs and NPs share structural similarities with specific hormone receptors; hence they interfere with normal hormone receptors, altering the hormonal action of the endocrine glands. This review demonstrates size-dependent MPs' bioaccumulation, distribution, and translocation with potential hazards to the endocrine gland. We reviewed that MPs and NPs disrupt hypothalamic-pituitary axes, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid/adrenal/testicular/ovarian axis leading to oxidative stress, reproductive toxicity, neurotoxicity, cytotoxicity, developmental abnormalities, decreased sperm quality, and immunotoxicity. The direct consequences of MPs and NPs on the thyroid, testis, and ovaries are documented. Still, studies need to be carried out to identify the direct effects of MPs and NPs on the hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Ullah
- Centre of Biotechnology and Microbiology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Shahid Ahmad
- School of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Xinle Guo
- Academy of Plateau Science and Sustainability, College of Life Sciences, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, China
| | - Saleem Ullah
- Centre of Biotechnology and Microbiology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Sana Ullah
- Department of Zoology, Division of Science and Technology, University of Education, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ghulam Nabi
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
- *Correspondence: Ghulam Nabi, ; Kunyuan Wanghe,
| | - Kunyuan Wanghe
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Laboratory of Plateau Fish Evolutionary and Functional Genomics, Qinghai Key Laboratory of Animal Ecological Genomics, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Science, Xining, China
- *Correspondence: Ghulam Nabi, ; Kunyuan Wanghe,
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143
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Shen P, Ji S, Li X, Yang Q, Xu B, Wong CKC, Wang L, Li L. LPS-Induced Systemic Inflammation Caused mPOA-FSH/LH Disturbance and Impaired Testicular Function. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:886085. [PMID: 35813649 PMCID: PMC9259990 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.886085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Male reproductive function is key to the continuation of species and is under sophisticated regulation, challenged by various stressors including inflammation. In the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intraperitoneal injection-induced acute systemic inflammation, male fecundity was compromised with decreased testosterone level, damaged spermatogenesis, and downregulations of testicular gene expression levels involved in steroidogenesis regulation and blood-testis barrier. It is also noteworthy that the testis is more sensitive to acute stress caused by LPS-induced systemic inflammation. LPS treatment resulted in lower testicular gene expression levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme, and cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily B member 1 after LPS treatment, while no such decrease was found in the adrenal gland. In parallel to the significant decreases in testicular intercellular adhesion molecule 1, tight junction protein 1, and gap junction alpha-1 protein gene expression with LPS treatment, no decrease was found in the epididymis. In the brain, LPS treatment caused higher medial preoptic area (mPOA) activation in the hypothalamus, which is accompanied by elevated blood follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, suggesting a disturbed hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad axis function. Besides mPOA, brain c-fos mapping and quantitative analysis demonstrated a broad activation of brain nuclei by LPS, including the anterior cingulate cortex, lateral septum, paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, basolateral amygdala, ventral tegmental area, lateral habenular nucleus, locus coeruleus, Barrington's nucleus, and the nucleus of the solitary tract, accompanied by abnormal animal behavior. Our data showed that LPS-induced inflammation caused not only local testicular damage but also a systemic disturbance at the brain-testis axis level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peilei Shen
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shuqin Ji
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xulin Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qingning Yang
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bingxian Xu
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Chris Kong Chu Wong
- Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Chris Kong Chu Wong, ; Liping Wang, ; Lei Li,
| | - Liping Wang
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, Shenzhen, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science–Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Chris Kong Chu Wong, ; Liping Wang, ; Lei Li,
| | - Lei Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, Shenzhen, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science–Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Chris Kong Chu Wong, ; Liping Wang, ; Lei Li,
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144
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WANG T, ZHANG D, SONG T, SUN M, ZHANG J. Advances in research of TGF-Β1 in human testis. FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/fst.22521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tingting WANG
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy of Guizhou Province, China
| | - Dan ZHANG
- Zunyi Medical University Library, China
| | - Tao SONG
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy of Guizhou Province, China
| | - Mengdi SUN
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy of Guizhou Province, China
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145
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Implications of testicular ACE2 and the renin-angiotensin system for SARS-CoV-2 on testis function. Nat Rev Urol 2022; 19:116-127. [PMID: 34837081 PMCID: PMC8622117 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-021-00542-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Although many studies have focused on SARS-CoV-2 infection in the lungs, comparatively little is known about the potential effects of the virus on male fertility. SARS-CoV-2 infection of target cells requires the presence of furin, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors, and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2). Thus, cells in the body that express these proteins might be highly susceptible to viral entry and downstream effects. Currently, reports regarding the expression of the viral entry proteins in the testes are conflicting; however, other members of the SARS-CoV family of viruses - such as SARS-CoV - have been suspected to cause testicular dysfunction and/or orchitis. SARS-CoV-2, which displays many similarities to SARS-CoV, could potentially cause similar adverse effects. Commonalities between SARS family members, taken in combination with sparse reports of testicular discomfort and altered hormone levels in patients with SARS-CoV-2, might indicate possible testicular dysfunction. Thus, SARS-CoV-2 infection has the potential for effects on testis somatic and germline cells and experimental approaches might be required to help identify potential short-term and long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 on male fertility.
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146
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Pulawska K, Ponikwicka-Tyszko D, Lebiedzinska W, Guo P, Bernaczyk P, Pilaszewicz-Puza A, Li X, Chrusciel M, Lupu O, Leskinen S, Makela JA, Toppari J, Wolczynski S, Coelingh Bennink HJT, Huhtaniemi I, Rahman NA. Novel expression of zona pellucida 3 protein in normal testis; potential functional implications. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 539:111502. [PMID: 34736966 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The expression of the zona pellucida glycoprotein 3 (ZP3), originally thought to be specific for oocytes, was recently extended to ovarian, prostate, colorectal and lung cancers. Earlier successful ZP3 immunization of a transgenic mouse model carrying a ZP3 positive ovarian tumor emphasized the suitability of ZP3 for cancer immunotherapy. This study was carried out to determine whether any other normal tissues besides the ovary in healthy human and mouse tissues may express ZP3, considered important to exclude off-target effects of ZP3 cancer immunotherapy. Strong ZP3 expression was found in normal human and mouse testis. ZP3 protein and mRNA transcripts were localized in spermatogonia, spermatocytes and round and elongated spermatids of both human and mouse testis, as well as in a mouse spermatogonial cell line, but absent in testicular Sertoli, Leydig, spermatogonial stem and progenitor cells. All other normal human and mouse tissues were ZP3 negative. This surprising testicular ZP3 expression has implications for the development of ZP3 cancer immunotherapies, and it also alludes to the potential of using ZP3 as a target for the development of a male immunocontraceptive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Pulawska
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Donata Ponikwicka-Tyszko
- Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Weronika Lebiedzinska
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Peilan Guo
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
| | - Piotr Bernaczyk
- Department of Pathomorphology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | | | - Xiangdong Li
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; State Key Laboratory of the Agro-Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | | | - Oana Lupu
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Sini Leskinen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Jorma Toppari
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Slawomir Wolczynski
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | | | - Ilpo Huhtaniemi
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nafis A Rahman
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland.
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147
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Aluru N, Engelhardt J. OUP accepted manuscript. Toxicol Sci 2022; 188:75-87. [PMID: 35477799 PMCID: PMC9237993 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfac044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to environmental toxicants during preconception has been shown to affect offspring health and epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation are hypothesized to be involved in adverse outcomes. However, studies addressing the effects of exposure to environmental toxicants during preconception on epigenetic changes in gametes are limited. The objective of this study is to determine the effect of preconceptional exposure to a dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyl (3,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl [PCB126]) on DNA methylation and gene expression in testis. Adult zebrafish were exposed to 3 and 10 nM PCB126 for 24 h and testis tissue was sampled at 7 days postexposure for histology, DNA methylation, and gene expression profiling. Reduced representation bisulfite sequencing revealed 37 and 92 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in response to 3 and 10 nM PCB126 exposures, respectively. Among them, 19 DMRs were found to be common between both PCB126 treatment groups. Gene ontology (GO) analysis of DMRs revealed that enrichment of terms such as RNA processing, iron-sulfur cluster assembly, and gluconeogenesis. Gene expression profiling showed differential expression of 40 and 1621 genes in response to 3 and 10 nM PCB126 exposures, respectively. GO analysis of differentially expressed genes revealed enrichment of terms related to xenobiotic metabolism, oxidative stress, and immune function. There is no overlap in the GO terms or individual genes between DNA methylation and RNA sequencing results, but functionally many of the altered pathways have been shown to cause spermatogenic defects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Engelhardt
- Bioinformatics Group, Department of Computer Science and Interdisciplinary Center for Bioinformatics, University of Leipzig, Leipzig D-04107, Germany
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna A-1030, Austria
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148
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Möller ML, Bulldan A, Scheiner-Bobis G. Tetrapeptides Modelled to the Androgen Binding Site of ZIP9 Stimulate Expression of Tight Junction Proteins and Tight Junction Formation in Sertoli Cells. BIOLOGY 2021; 11:55. [PMID: 35053053 PMCID: PMC8773409 DOI: 10.3390/biology11010055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Androgens stimulate the expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins and the formation of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). Interactions of testosterone with the zinc transporter ZIP9 stimulate the expression of TJ-forming proteins and promote TJ formation in Sertoli cells. In order to investigate androgenic effects mediated by ZIP9 but not by the nuclear androgen receptor (AR), the effects of three tetrapeptides fitting the androgen binding site of ZIP9 were compared with those induced by testosterone in a Sertoli cell line expressing ZIP9 but not the AR. Three tetrapeptides and testosterone displaced testosterone-BSA-FITC from the surface of 93RS2 cells and stimulated the non-classical testosterone signaling pathway that includes the activation of Erk1/2 kinases and transcription factors CREB and ATF-1. The expression of the TJ-associated proteins ZO-1 and claudin-5 was triggered as was the re-distribution of claudin-1 from the cytosol to the membrane and nucleus. Furthermore, TJ formation was stimulated, indicated by increased transepithelial electrical resistance. Silencing ZIP9 expression by siRNA prevented all of these responses. These results are consistent with an alternative pathway for testosterone action at the BTB that does not involve the nuclear AR and highlight the significant role of ZIP9 as a cell-surface androgen receptor that stimulates TJ formation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Georgios Scheiner-Bobis
- Institute of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Frankfurter Str. 100, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.-L.M.); (A.B.)
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149
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Wang M, Zeng L, Su P, Ma L, Zhang M, Zhang YZ. Autophagy: a multifaceted player in the fate of sperm. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:200-231. [PMID: 34967891 PMCID: PMC8889000 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autophagy is an intracellular catabolic process of degrading and recycling proteins and organelles to modulate various physiological and pathological events, including cell differentiation and development. Emerging data indicate that autophagy is closely associated with male reproduction, especially the biosynthetic and catabolic processes of sperm. Throughout the fate of sperm, a series of highly specialized cellular events occur, involving pre-testicular, testicular and post-testicular events. Nonetheless, the most fundamental question of whether autophagy plays a protective or harmful role in male reproduction, especially in sperm, remains unclear. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We summarize the functional roles of autophagy in the pre-testicular (hypothalamic–pituitary–testis (HPG) axis), testicular (spermatocytogenesis, spermatidogenesis, spermiogenesis, spermiation) and post-testicular (sperm maturation and fertilization) processes according to the timeline of sperm fate. Additionally, critical mechanisms of the action and clinical impacts of autophagy on sperm are identified, laying the foundation for the treatment of male infertility. SEARCH METHODS In this narrative review, the PubMed database was used to search peer-reviewed publications for summarizing the functional roles of autophagy in the fate of sperm using the following terms: ‘autophagy’, ‘sperm’, ‘hypothalamic–pituitary–testis axis’, ‘spermatogenesis’, ‘spermatocytogenesis’, ‘spermatidogenesis’, ‘spermiogenesis’, ‘spermiation’, ‘sperm maturation’, ‘fertilization’, ‘capacitation’ and ‘acrosome’ in combination with autophagy-related proteins. We also performed a bibliographic search for the clinical impact of the autophagy process using the keywords of autophagy inhibitors such as ‘bafilomycin A1’, ‘chloroquine’, ‘hydroxychloroquine’, ‘3-Methyl Adenine (3-MA)’, ‘lucanthone’, ‘wortmannin’ and autophagy activators such as ‘rapamycin’, ‘perifosine’, ‘metformin’ in combination with ‘disease’, ‘treatment’, ‘therapy’, ‘male infertility’ and equivalent terms. In addition, reference lists of primary and review articles were reviewed for additional relevant publications. All relevant publications until August 2021 were critically evaluated and discussed on the basis of relevance, quality and timelines. OUTCOMES (i) In pre-testicular processes, autophagy-related genes are involved in the regulation of the HPG axis; and (ii) in testicular processes, mTORC1, the main gate to autophagy, is crucial for spermatogonia stem cell (SCCs) proliferation, differentiation, meiotic progression, inactivation of sex chromosomes and spermiogenesis. During spermatidogenesis, autophagy maintains haploid round spermatid chromatoid body homeostasis for differentiation. During spermiogenesis, autophagy participates in acrosome biogenesis, flagella assembly, head shaping and the removal of cytoplasm from elongating spermatid. After spermatogenesis, through PDLIM1, autophagy orchestrates apical ectoplasmic specialization and basal ectoplasmic specialization to handle cytoskeleton assembly, governing spermatid movement and release during spermiation. In post-testicular processes, there is no direct evidence that autophagy participates in the process of capacitation. However, autophagy modulates the acrosome reaction, paternal mitochondria elimination and clearance of membranous organelles during fertilization. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Deciphering the roles of autophagy in the entire fate of sperm will provide valuable insights into therapies for diseases, especially male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China.,Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Science Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Ling Zeng
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Ping Su
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Ling Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China.,Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China.,Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Zhen Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China.,Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
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150
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Evidence for Ovarian and Testicular Toxicities of Cadmium and Detoxification by Natural Substances. STRESSES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/stresses2010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is an environmental toxicant, capable of reducing mitochondrial ATP production and promoting the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) with resultant oxidative stress conditions. The ovary and testis are the primary gonads in which female gametes (oocytes) and male gametes (spermatozoa), estrogen and testosterone are produced. These organs are particularly susceptible to Cd cytotoxicity due to their high metabolic activities and high energy demands. In this review, epidemiological and experimental studies examining Cd toxicities in gonads are highlighted together with studies using zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), and natural substances to reduce the effects of Cd on follicular genesis and spermatogenesis. Higher blood concentrations of Cd ([Cd]b) were associated with longer time-to-pregnancy in a prospective cohort study. Cd excretion rate (ECd) as low as 0.8 μg/g creatinine was associated with reduced spermatozoa vitality, while Zn and Se may protect against spermatozoa quality decline accompanying Cd exposure. ECd > 0.68 µg/g creatinine were associated with an increased risk of premature ovarian failure by 2.5-fold, while [Cd]b ≥ 0.34 µg/L were associated with a 2.5-fold increase in the risk of infertility in women. Of concern, urinary excretion of Cd at 0.68 and 0.8 μg/g creatinine found to be associated with fecundity are respectively 13% and 15% of the conventional threshold limit for Cd-induced kidney tubular effects of 5.24 μg/g creatinine. These findings suggest that toxicity of Cd in primary reproductive organs occurs at relatively low body burden, thereby arguing for minimization of exposure and environmental pollution by Cd and its transfer to the food web.
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