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Zhang B, Li F, Huang C, Xu L, Cao Z, Kang Y, Jiang W, Chang D. The correlation between clinical features and ultrastructure of testis of non-mosaic Klinefelter's syndrome patients with hypogonadism and androgen deficiency: A case report. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19940. [PMID: 37809695 PMCID: PMC10559353 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19940] [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: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Klinefelter Syndrome (KS) is a sex chromosomal syndrome usually with an extra X chromosome (47, XXY) in males, which has various phenotype (mosaicism 47, XXY/46, XY, or more chromosomes 48, XXXY, 49, XXXXY) and clinical features, including eunuchoid body proportions, abnormally long legs and arm span, gynecomastia, ynecomastia, absent or decreased facial and pubic hair, small hyalinized testes, small penis, below-normal verbal intelligence quotient, and learning difficulties. At present, there are no studies on the correlation between the clinical characteristics of patients with KS and the ultrastructural changes of intracellular organelles in testicular tissue in China. Case presentation Here we report the ultrastructure manifestation of the testis tissues in a KS patient with hypogonadism and androgen deficiency, to find a relationship between ultrastructural changes of organelles and spermatogenic dysfunction, clinical features, timing of surgery and metabolic abnormalities. It has been shown that the spermatocytes are absent and the ultrastructure of Sertoli cells and Leydig cells is obviously abnormal, which may lead to spermatogenic dysfunction, androgen deficiency, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and abdominal fat accumulation. Conclusions Based on the European Academy of Andrology (EAA) Gudilines on Klinefelter Syndrome, this study conducted a retrospective study on the diagnosis and treatment of one adult patient with KS, aiming to provide a standardized diagnosis and treatment for patients with KS. This study is also highly concerned with the correlation between the ultrastructural changes of target organs and clinical symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhang
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Fudong Li
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Chuang Huang
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Liuting Xu
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Zhigang Cao
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yafen Kang
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Convalescent Section First of Convalescent Zone Second, Air Force Hangzhou Secret Service Rehabilitation Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dehui Chang
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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Bradshaw AW, Deebel NA, Xu MC, Kogan S, Atala A, Sadri-Ardekani H. Examining potential mechanisms of testicular fibrosis in Klinefelter Syndrome: A review of current understanding. Andrology 2023; 11:435-443. [PMID: 36252136 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men with Klinefelter Syndrome develop some degree of seminiferous tubule degeneration, hyalinization, and fibrosis by adulthood. However, the pathophysiology surrounding testicular fibrosis in Klinefelter Syndrome patients remains incompletely understood. OBJECTIVES To perform a systematic review of literature studying the mechanisms of fibrosis initiation or propagation in Klinefelter Syndrome testes. MATERIALS/METHODS PubMed was searched systematically for articles specific to Klinefelter Syndrome and the process of fibrosis. Articles that did not contain original data or specifically addressed the target material were excluded. Additional references were extracted when pertinent from the reference lists of included studies. RESULTS Primary search yielded 139 articles for abstract review, which was narrowed to 16 for full-text review. Following full-text review, eight contained original data and met topic criteria, with one paper added from reference review for a total of nine papers. DISCUSSION The date range for included papers was 1992-2022. The proposed mechanisms of fibrosis mainly were centered around the impact of altered Sertoli cells on germ cells, the hormonal impact on Leydig cells, the inflammation mediated by mast cells, or the fibrous extracellular matrix deposition by peritubular myoid cells. Additionally, discussions of the role of the altered microvasculature and the specific proteins involved in the blood-testis barrier or the seminiferous tubule architecture are reviewed. Recent papers have incorporated advanced sequencing and offer future directions for targeted gene expression analysis. Still, much of the published data consists solely of immunohistological assessment by age range, creating difficulties in extrapolating causality. CONCLUSION The specific initiating factors of fibrosis of the seminiferous tubules and the propagation mechanisms unique to Klinefelter Syndrome remain incompletely understood with a relative paucity of data. Nonetheless, academic interest is increasing in this field as it may further elucidate the pathophysiology behind Klinefelter syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron W Bradshaw
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.,Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM), Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nicholas A Deebel
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.,Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM), Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mark C Xu
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.,Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM), Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Stanley Kogan
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.,Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM), Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.,Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM), Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hooman Sadri-Ardekani
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.,Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM), Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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Leavy M, Trottmann M, Liedl B, Reese S, Stief C, Freitag B, Baugh J, Spagnoli G, Kölle S. Effects of Elevated β-Estradiol Levels on the Functional Morphology of the Testis - New Insights. Sci Rep 2017; 7:39931. [PMID: 28045098 PMCID: PMC5206739 DOI: 10.1038/srep39931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Elevated estradiol levels are correlated with male infertility. Causes of hyperestrogenism include diseases of the adrenal cortex, testis or medications affecting the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis. The aim of our study was to elucidate the effects of estradiol treatment on testicular cellular morphology and function, with reference to the treatment regimen received. Testes samples (n = 9) were obtained post-orchiectomy from male-to-female transsexuals within the age range of 26–52 years. Each patient had a minimum of 1–6 years estradiol treatment. For comparison, additional samples were obtained from microscopically unaltered testicular tissue surrounding tumors (n = 7). The tissues obtained were investigated by stereomicroscopy, histochemistry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and immunohistochemistry. Our studies revealed that estradiol treatment significantly decreased the diameter of the seminiferous tubules (p < 0.05) and induced fatty degeneration in the surrounding connective tissue. An increase in collagen fiber synthesis in the extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding the seminiferous tubules was also induced. Spermatogenesis was impaired resulting in mainly spermatogonia being present. Sertoli cells revealed diminished expression of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα). Both Sertoli and Leydig cells showed morphological alterations and glycoprotein accumulations. These results demonstrate that increased estradiol levels drastically impact the human testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myles Leavy
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Matthias Trottmann
- Department of Urology, Klinikum Grosshadern, University of Munich, Germany
| | - Bernhard Liedl
- Department of Urogenital Surgery, Clinics for Surgery Munich-Bogenhausen, Munich, Germany
| | - Sven Reese
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Stief
- Department of Urology, Klinikum Grosshadern, University of Munich, Germany
| | - Benjamin Freitag
- Department of Urology, Klinikum Grosshadern, University of Munich, Germany
| | - John Baugh
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Giulio Spagnoli
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Kölle
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
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Madekurozwa MC, Booyse D. Seasonal Changes in the Immunolocalization of Cytoskeletal Proteins and Laminin in the Testis of the Black-Backed Jackal (Canis mesomelas). Anat Histol Embryol 2016; 46:85-93. [PMID: 27477545 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Manipulation of the reproductive activity of jackals is dependent on a thorough understanding of the reproductive biology of this species. This study describes seasonal morphological changes in the adult testis of the black-backed jackal in relation to the immunoexpression of the basement membrane marker, laminin and the cytoskeletal proteins, cytokeratin, smooth muscle actin and vimentin. Laminin was immunolocalized in basement membranes surrounding seminiferous tubules, as well as in basement membranes associated with Leydig, peritubular myoid and vascular smooth muscle cells. Scalloped basement membranes enclosed seminiferous tubules in regressing testes. The seminiferous epithelium and interstitial tissue in all animals studied were cytokeratin immunonegative. Smooth muscle actin was demonstrated in vascular smooth muscle cells, as well as in peritubular myoid cells encircling seminiferous tubules. Vimentin immunoreactivity was exhibited in the cytoplasm of Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, vascular endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells and fibrocytes. Vimentin immunostaining in Sertoli, Leydig and peritubular myoid cells varied depending on the functional state of the testis. The results of the study have shown that dramatic seasonal histological changes occur in the testes of the jackal. In addition, the use of immunohistochemistry accentuates these morphological changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-C Madekurozwa
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
| | - D Booyse
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
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Nistal M, Paniagua R, González-Peramato P, Reyes-Múgica M. Perspectives in Pediatric Pathology, Chapter 16. Klinefelter Syndrome and Other Anomalies in X and Y Chromosomes. Clinical and Pathological Entities. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2016; 19:259-77. [PMID: 25105890 DOI: 10.2350/14-06-1512-pb.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Nistal
- 1 Department of Pathology, Hospital La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Calle Arzobispo Morcillo No. 2, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Ricardo Paniagua
- 2 Department of Cell Biology, Universidad de Alcala, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar González-Peramato
- 1 Department of Pathology, Hospital La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Calle Arzobispo Morcillo No. 2, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Miguel Reyes-Múgica
- 3 Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, One Children's Hospital Drive, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
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6
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Rossi SP, Windschuettl S, Matzkin ME, Terradas C, Ponzio R, Puigdomenech E, Levalle O, Calandra RS, Mayerhofer A, Frungieri MB. Melatonin in testes of infertile men: evidence for anti-proliferative and anti-oxidant effects on local macrophage and mast cell populations. Andrology 2014; 2:436-49. [PMID: 24659586 DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2014.00207.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2013] [Revised: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 02/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin acting through the hypothalamus and pituitary regulates testicular function. In addition, direct actions of melatonin at the testicular level have been recently suggested. We have described that melatonin inhibits androgen production in hamster Leydig cells via melatonin subtype 1a (mel1a) receptors and the local corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) system. The initial events of the melatonin/CRH signalling pathway have also been established. Melatonin and all components of the melatonergic/CRH system were also detected in Leydig cells of infertile men. This study attempted to search for additional targets of melatonin in the human testis, and to investigate the effects of melatonin on proliferation and the oxidative state in these novel target cells. To this aim, evaluation of human testicular biopsies of patients suffering from hypospermatogenesis or Sertoli cell only syndrome and cell culture studies were performed. Melatonergic receptors were found in macrophages (MACs) and mast cells (MCs) of the human testis. In biopsies of patients suffering idiopathic infertility, melatonin testicular concentrations were negatively correlated with MAC number per mm(2) and TNFα, IL1β and COX2 expression, but positively correlated with the expression of the anti-oxidant enzymes SOD1, peroxiredoxin 1 and catalase. Melatonin inhibited proliferation and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) in both the human non-testicular THP-1 MAC cell line and primary cell cultures of hamster testicular MACs. In the human HMC-1 MC line, melatonin increased the expression of anti-oxidant enzymes and decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. The results reveal new testicular targets of melatonin and describe anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects of this hormone on testicular MACs. Furthermore, melatonin might provide protective effects against oxidative stress in testicular MCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- S P Rossi
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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7
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Volkmann J, Muller D, Feuerstacke C, Kliesch S, Bergmann M, Muhlfeld C, Middendorff R. Disturbed spermatogenesis associated with thickened lamina propria of seminiferous tubules is not caused by dedifferentiation of myofibroblasts. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:1450-61. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
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8
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Sato Y, Nozawa S, Iwamoto T. Study of spermatogenesis and thickening of lamina propria in the human seminiferous tubules. Fertil Steril 2008; 90:1310-2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2006] [Revised: 09/28/2007] [Accepted: 10/05/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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10
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Aire TA, Ozegbe PC. The testicular capsule and peritubular tissue of birds: morphometry, histology, ultrastructure and immunohistochemistry. J Anat 2007; 210:731-40. [PMID: 17451470 PMCID: PMC2375754 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2007.00726.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The testicular capsule was studied histologically, morphometrically, ultrastructurally and immunohistochemically in the Japanese quail, domestic fowl, turkey and duck (all members of the Galloanserae). The testicular capsule was, relative to mammals, thin, being 81.5 +/- 13.7 microm in the quail, 91.7 +/- 6.2 microm in the domestic fowl, 104.5 +/- 29.8 microm in the turkey and 91.8 +/- 18.9 microm in the duck. The orchido-epididymal border (hilus) of the capsule was much thicker than elsewhere in all birds (from 233.7 +/- 50.7 microm in the duck to 550.0 +/- 147.3 microm thick in the turkey). The testicular capsule, other than the tunica serosa and tunica vasculosa, comprised, in the main, smooth muscle-like or myoid cells running mainly in one direction, and disposed in one main mass. Peritubular tissue was similarly composed of smooth muscle-like cells disposed in several layers. Actin and desmin intermediate filaments were immunolocalized in the inner cellular layers of the capsule in the quail, domestic fowl and duck, but uniformly in the turkey. Vimentin intermediate filament immunoreaction in the capsule was moderately and uniformly positive in the testicular capsule of only the quail. Actin and desmin, but not vimentin (except very faintly in the turkey) or cytokeratin, were immunolocalized in the peritubular tissue of all birds. The results therefore establish, or complement, some previous observations that these birds have contractile cells in their testicular capsule and peritubular tissue, whose function probably includes the transport of testicular fluid into the excurrent duct system.
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Affiliation(s)
- T A Aire
- Department of Anatomy & Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa.
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Maretta M, Marettová E. Immunohistochemical demonstration of myoid cells in the testis and its excurrent ducts in the domestic fowl. Br Poult Sci 2005; 45:585-9. [PMID: 15623209 DOI: 10.1080/00071660400006313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
(1) Immunohistochemical methods and three antibodies (against actin, desmin and smooth muscle actin) were used to demonstrate the myoid cells in the domestic fowl testis and its excurrent ducts. (2) A positive reaction to actin, smooth muscle actin and desmin was found in the myoid cells of peritubular tissue of the testis and in rete testis, ductuli efferentes and ductus epididymidis. (3) In the testis myoid-reactive cells form a single layer. In the rete testis, ductuli efferentes and the ductus epididymidis reactive myoid cells form a main component of the stroma. (4) Positive reaction to actin, smooth muscle actin and desmin was also observed in the myoid cells of the tunica albuginea and in the wall of blood vessels in the testis and epididymis, indicating a contractile function for the testicular capsule.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Maretta
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Physiology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Kosice, Slovak Republic.
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12
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Dobashi M, Fujisawa M, Naito I, Yamazaki T, Okada H, Kamidono S. Distribution of type IV collagen subtypes in human testes and their association with spermatogenesis. Fertil Steril 2003; 80 Suppl 2:755-60. [PMID: 14505750 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(03)00775-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the expression of type IV collagen [alpha1(IV) to alpha6(IV)] in testes and the association with spermatogenesis. DESIGN Retrospective immunohistochemical study. SETTING Division of Urology, Department of Organs Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, in a university hospital. PATIENT(S) Testicular biopsy specimens were obtained from 24 patients with varicocele, 5 with Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCO), and 5 normal volunteers. INTERVENTION(S) Collection of testicular tissue and blood and semen sampling. RESULT(S) Expression of type IV collagen subtypes assessed by immunohistochemistry and clinical parameters such as seminogram and hormonal findings. In normal testes, the alpha1(IV) chain was seen in the basement membrane (BM) of seminiferous tubules as strongly stained irregular, wavy double lines, and the alpha2(IV) chain was slightly detected, whereas other testes showed little staining. In patients with varicocele and Sertoli cell-only syndrome, the BM was thicker and alpha1(IV) and alpha2(IV) chains were stained more intensely in the BM of seminiferous tubules than in normal testes. The expression of alpha1(IV) chain, not alpha2(IV), significantly correlated positively with the BM thickness, and negatively with sperm concentration, tubular diameter, and Johnsen score. CONCLUSION(S) Overabundance of the alpha1(IV) chain is associated with increased BM thickness and possibly related to spermatogenic dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Dobashi
- Division of Urology, Department of Organs Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
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Fukuda T, Kikuchi M, Kurotaki T, Oyamada T, Yoshikawa H, Yoshikawa T. Age-related changes in the testes of horses. Equine Vet J 2001; 33:20-5. [PMID: 11191605 DOI: 10.2746/042516401776767449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Atrophy of seminiferous tubules and interstitial fibrosis are frequently observed in aged horses. Samples from 8 male Thoroughbreds, age 4-24 years, were subjected to histological, electron microscopical and immunohistochemical examination and statistical analysis. There were statistically significant increases in collagen fibres in the lamina propria of seminiferous tubules and testicular interstitium in 3 horses age 23 and 24 years compared with 5 horses age 4-20 years (P<0.001). Lamina propria surrounding atrophic tubules was thickened by an increase in collagen type IV and elastic fibres and by proliferation of bizarre myoid cells. Basal lamina was also thickened but had decreased reactivity for collagen type IV. Some myoid cells changed morphologically to a swollen and irregular shape and contained abundant cytoplasmic organelles. Laser scanning microscopy revealed that cytoplasmic actin filaments were decreased; the remaining filaments were positive for alpha-smooth muscle actin and vimentin, and matrix metalloproteinase-2 was secreted. These myoid cells transformed into myofibroblasts. The changes are interpreted as evidence of injured structure and function of the lamina propria and basal lamina and may explain the functional decline of the blood-testis barrier. Myoid cells may play an important role in the progression of testicular fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Fukuda
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Kitasato University, Towada, Aomori, Japan
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Santoro G, Romeo C, Impellizzeri P, Gentile C, Anastasi G, Santoro A. Ultrastructural and immunohistochemical study of basal lamina of the testis in adolescent varicocele. Fertil Steril 2000; 73:699-705. [PMID: 10731528 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(99)00611-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate a possible involvement of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the testes of adolescents with varicocele. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING University-based medical center. PATIENT(S) Twenty-four adolescents aged between 13 and 18 years underwent surgical treatment for repair of left idiopathic varicocele. INTERVENTION A testis biopsy was performed at time of surgery. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Transmission electron microscopy study of basal lamina and immunofluorescence studies of collagen type IV and laminin, two major components of basal lamina. RESULT(S) Transmission electron microscopy observations showed an uneven profile of the basal lamina with a variable thickness. Immunofluorescence studies showed an irregular immunofluorescent line that appeared interrupted in some observations. Collagen type IV showed some areas of strong immunostaining with other areas with reduced immunoreactivity. CONCLUSION(S) Our ultrastructural and immunohistochemical observations highlight focal damage at the level of peritubular basal lamina, but this damage is not as severe as that described in adult varicocele. Initial involvement of basal lamina could represent one of the mechanisms responsible for varicocele-induced histologic alterations of the testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Santoro
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
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Abstract
Biopsy of the testis is not universally accepted in contrast with biopsies of other organs. The pathologist studies and reports on the pathophysiology of the testicular biopsy specimen. Methodology requires the inclusion of qualitative and quantitative studies, the evaluation of the lesion's evolution (prognosis), and, often, therapeutic advice regarding treatment. Cooperation between pathologists and clinicians optimizes the utility of the biopsy for the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nistal
- Department of Pathology, La Paz Hospital, Madrid, Spain
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16
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Santoro G, Romeo C, Impellizzeri P, Arco A, Rizzo G, Gentile C. A morphometric and ultrastructural study of the changes in the lamina propria in adolescents with varicocele. BJU Int 1999; 83:828-32. [PMID: 10368207 DOI: 10.1046/j.1464-410x.1999.00023.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To verify if changes in the lamina propria and its components, reported in adults with varicocele, are already present in adolescents with idiopathic varicocele, using a morphometric and ultrastructural study. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty testicular biopsies from adolescents (mean age 15.6 years) were obtained during surgery for left idiopathic varicocele; five testicular biopsies from adolescents (mean age 16 years) undergoing surgery for hydrocele or inguinal hernia were used as controls. Biopsy specimens were processed for light and transmission electron microscopy; the sections were evaluated morphometrically using computerized image analysis. RESULTS Morphometric and ultrastructural examination of the testes with varicocele showed an increased thickness in the lamina propria, caused principally by an increase in the extracellular matrix components, and deep invaginations towards the germinal epithelium. CONCLUSION There is detectable damage of the lamina propria in adolescents affected by left idiopathic varicocele, although not as well developed or as severe as in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Santoro
- Department of Biomorphology, University of Messina, Italy
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Ramos P, De Miguel MP, Arenas MI, Fraile B, Paniagua R. Testicular cell cytoskeleton in the newt, Triturus marmoratus marmoratus, during the annual cycle. Microsc Res Tech 1996; 33:501-9. [PMID: 8800756 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1097-0029(19960415)33:6<501::aid-jemt5>3.0.co;2-n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Light and electron microscopy immunohistochemical studies and Western blotting analysis of cytoskeletal proteins have been carried out in the testis of the marbled newt (Triturus marmoratus marmoratus) during the annual testicular cycle. The present findings revealed homologies and differences with regard to those reported in the testes of mammals and other vertebrates. Changes in immunohistochemical expression have also been detected in the course of the annual cycle. Actin and tubulin, which were scanty and diffusely located in spermatogonia and spermatocytes, increased their expression and reorganized during spermiogenesis. Vimentin and keratin, undetected in spermatogonia and spermatocytes, were expressed in differentiating spermatids and spermatozoa. In these cells, actin might be related with the connection of the axial fiber to the undulating membrane and the coordination of movement by both structures, while vimentin might be involved in the maintenance of the spatial relationship between the axoneme and the marginal fiber. During the first stages of spermatogenesis, the cytoplasm of Sertoli cells (follicular cells) showed a diffuse immunoreaction to actin, myosin, and tubulin and no vimentin immunolabeling. In advanced spermiogenesis, the follicular cells showed an intense immunoreaction to actin, myosin, tubulin, and vimentin in the apical projections that surrounded the spermatid heads. These apical cytoskeletal components might be involved in spermatid elongation, since the spermatids display no manchette, and in spermatozoon positioning and grouping. The colocalization of myosin and actin in the follicular cells suggests that actin filaments from contractile bundles and that contraction might be involved in changes in the Sertoli cell shape that accompany germ cell development during spermatogenesis. The interstitial cells immunostained to actin, myosin, tubulin, and vimentin. These cells, together with follicular cells, seemed to form the glandular tissue cells which showed a similar immunophenotype. The cells that surrounded the efferent duct epithelium immunostained to desmin, and they are probably contractile cells involved in sperm evacuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Ramos
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, University of Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
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Santamaría L, Martín R, Codesal J, Ramírez R, Paniagua R. Immunohistochemical quantitative study of the peritubular lamina propria after induction of testicular atrophy induced by epinephrine. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY 1995; 18:295-306. [PMID: 8719845 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.1995.tb00565.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Changes in the testicular peritubular lamina propria in rats treated for 1-11 weeks with intra-scrotal injections of epinephrine were studied by quantitative immunohistochemical methods. In control testes, BrdU-labelled nuclei (proliferating cells) were observed only in spermatogonia and some primary spermatocytes, whereas testes from epinephrine-treated rats showed BrdU labelling in some of the spermatogonia and in peritubular cells. Immunostaining for transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) was present in germ cells, Sertoli cells and Leydig cells; vimentin immunostaining was found mainly in Sertoli cells; desmin immunostaining was found in the peritubular cells, and immunostaining for type IV collagen, laminin and fibronectin was found in the extracellular matrix of the lamina propria. The volume densities of seminiferous tubules (including seminiferous epithelium, lamina propria and tubular lumen) that immunostained for TGF-beta 1, vimentin, laminin, desmin or fibronectin were calculated. All of these parameters increased significantly in testes from epinephrine-treated animals during the course of the experiment, except for desmin immunostaining which showed no significant change in volume density. Since total seminiferous tubule volume decreased markedly in the testes of treated rats during the experiment, the transformation of relative values for immunostaining into absolute volumes per testis revealed a significant increase in TGF-beta 1 immunostaining, no significant change in vimentin immunostaining, and a significant decrease in desmin immunostaining during the time of the study. The absolute volume occupied by laminin and fibronectin immunostaining decreased from the 3rd to the 8th weeks of treatment, and increased from the 8th to the 11th weeks. These changes, associated with germ cell depletion and tubular fibrosis, suggest that tubular ischaemic atrophy caused by epinephrine alters the peritubular myoid cells, which change immunophenotype and increase their secretion of the extracellular matrix components producing tubular fibrosis. The mechanism of this alteration may involve direct effects on the peritubular cells or the changes may be secondary to germ cell and/or Sertoli cell lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Santamaría
- Department of Morphology (Histology), Autonomous University of Madrid, Spain
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Arenas MI, Fraile B, De Miguel M, Paniagua R. Intermediate filaments in the testis of the teleost mosquito fish Gambusia affinis holbrooki: a light and electron microscope immunocytochemical study and western blotting analysis. THE HISTOCHEMICAL JOURNAL 1995; 27:329-37. [PMID: 7635766 DOI: 10.1007/bf00398976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
A light and electron microscope immunocytochemical study and Western blotting analysis has been performed on intermediate filaments (vimentin, desmin and cytokeratins) in the testis of the teleost fish Gambusia affinis holbrooki. An immunoreaction to vimentin was observed in the epithelium of the efferent ducts, testicular canal and their surrounding peritubular cells. Positive vimentin immunostaining was also observed in the cells located around seminiferous tubules (boundary cells), Leydig cells, interstitial fibroblasts, chromatophores, and blood vessel endothelial cells. In contrast to mammals, no vimentin immunoreactivity was found in the Sertoli cells. Immunoreactivity to desmin was weak in the epithelial cells of the efferent ducts and testicular canal and intense in the peritubular cells that surrounded these ducts. Desmin immunoreactivity was also observed in the seminiferous tubule boundary cells. The immunoreactivity was weak in the boundary cells that surrounded germ cell cysts containing spermatogonia or spermatocytes and intense in the boundary cells around cysts with elongated or mature spermatids. Immunoreactivity towards cytokeratins was observed only in testicular blood vessels. Cytokeratin immunolabelling was intense in the endothelium and weak in the vascular smooth muscle cells. No cytokeratin immunoreactivity was found in the Sertoli cells, germ cells, interstitial cells or in the efferent duct epithelium. The absence of intermediate filaments in the Sertoli cells, the absence of cytokeratins in the epithelium of the sperm excretory ducts, and the presence of desmin filaments in these epithelial cells are the most important differences with regards to the intermediate filament phenotype in mammalian testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M I Arenas
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, University of Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
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Arenas MI, Fraile B, Paz de Miguel M, Paniagua R. Cytoskeleton in Sertoli cells of the mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis holbrooki). Anat Rec (Hoboken) 1995; 241:225-34. [PMID: 7710138 DOI: 10.1002/ar.1092410209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is little information about the distribution of cytoskeletal components in the testes of teleost fish. The aim of this paper was to know the distribution of some major cytoskeletal proteins (tubulin, actin, vimentin, desmin, and cytokeratins) in the Sertoli cells of Gambusia affinis holbrooki and in their efferent duct epithelial cells which are possibly originated from the Sertoli cells. METHODS Light and electron microscopic immunocytochemical studies and Western blotting analysis were performed in G. affinis testis. RESULTS Actin immunoreaction was observed in the Sertoli cells at all spermatogenic stages, although the intensity of this reaction varied from one stage to another. Sertoli cells that support spermatogonia or spermatocytes showed a weak immunoreaction which was uniformly distributed throughout the cytoplasm and somewhat more concentrated at the level of the inter-Sertoli specialized junctions. Immunoreaction to actin increased during the first stages of spermiogenesis and was mainly localized beneath the plasma membrane. This immunoreaction was more intense in the basal than in the apical cytoplasm of Sertoli cells. In a more advanced stage of spermiogenesis, actin immunoreaction become stronger in the apical cytoplasm where Sertoli cells displayed cytoplasmic projections around each spermatid. After sperm release, the apical Sertoli cell cytoplasm still showed an intense actin immunoreaction. Intense immunoreaction to actin was also observed in the epithelial cells lining the efferent ducts. Immunoreaction to tubulin was diffuse throughout the Sertoli cell cytoplasm. No immunoreaction to vimentin or desmin was observed in the Sertoli cells during the spermatogenic process. Immunoreaction to both vimentin and desmin was observed in the efferent duct cells. Desmin immunoreaction was also observed in the seminiferous tubule boundary cells, mainly in the sections showing germ cell cysts at the last stages of spermiogenesis and in the peritubular cells that surrounded the efferent duct epithelium. Immunoreaction to cytokeratins was found in the endothelium of testicular blood vessels but not in the Sertoli cells or in the efferent duct epithelium. CONCLUSIONS Immunoreaction pattern to cytoskeletal proteins in the Sertoli cells of G. affinis differs from that reported in mammalian Sertoli cells. These differences include the distribution of actin filaments and the absence of detectable vimentin immunoreaction in G. affinis Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- M I Arenas
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, University of Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
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Santamaría L, Martín R, Codesal J, Paniagua R. Myoid cell proliferation in rat seminiferous tubules after ischaemic testicular atrophy induced by epinephrine. Morphometric and immunohistochemical (bromo-deoxyuridine and PCNA) studies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY 1995; 18:13-22. [PMID: 7782129 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.1995.tb00929.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The proliferation of peritubular myoid cells in the testes of rats treated for 1-11 weeks with intra-scrotal injections of epinephrine was investigated using immunohistochemistry and quantitative histology. The percentage of peritubular cells that were immunopositive for proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) or that were labelled with 5'-bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) in the S-phase of the cell cycle, were calculated in control and treated rats after 1,3,5,8 and 11 weeks of treatment. In addition, the change in the number of peritubular cells per testis was calculated using two different stereological methods. The possible correlation between the changes observed using the two proliferation indices (PCNA immunoreaction and labelling of BrdU) in peritubular myoid cells was evaluated by regression analysis. The results of the study indicate that both proliferation indices increased in peritubular cells between the third and the eighth weeks of treatment, and that this increase was correlated with an increase in the number of these cells. From weeks 8-11 of treatment, both proliferation indices decreased and the same occurred with the number of peritubular cells. We hypothesize that proliferation of the peritubular cells occurs in order to increase their secretion of extracellular matrix components leading to enlargement of the lamina propria of the seminiferous tubule.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Santamaría
- Department of Morphology (Histology), School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Madrid, Spain
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Martín de las Mulas J, Espinosa de los Monteros A, Carrasco L, Sierra MA, Vos JH. Immunohistochemical distribution of vimentin, desmin, glial fibrillary acidic protein and neurofilament proteins in feline tissues. ZENTRALBLATT FUR VETERINARMEDIZIN. REIHE A 1994; 41:1-15. [PMID: 8085393 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0442.1994.tb00059.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The immunohistochemical distribution pattern of vimentin, desmin, glial fibrillary acidic protein and neurofilaments intermediate filament proteins has been analyzed in a wide range of formalin fixed, paraffin embedded tissues using polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies raised against non-feline antigens. The vimentin antibody reacted with mesenchymal cells, the desmin antibody with striated and smooth muscle fibres, the glial fibrillary acidic protein antibody with glial cells in the central and peripheral nervous system, and the neurofilament proteins antibody with neuronal cell bodies and processes. In addition, some epithelial cells were vimentin positive, perisinusoidal liver cells were desmin positive, and basal/myoepithelial cells of the mammary gland, and luteinic cells were glial fibrillary acidic protein positive. These staining patterns of feline tissues are basically similar with respect to that of corresponding tissues in other mammalian species for each of the four intermediate filament proteins studied, but some differences have been also noticed. This study confirms the broad interspecies cross-reactivity of intermediate filament proteins antisera and demonstrates their capability to differentiate particular types of feline cells and tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Martín de las Mulas
- Department of Comparative Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Córdoba, Spain
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