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Morenas R, Singh D, Hellstrom WJG. Thyroid disorders and male sexual dysfunction. Int J Impot Res 2024; 36:333-338. [PMID: 37752332 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-023-00768-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Though early research suggested that thyroid hormones were not involved with the testes, male spermatogenesis, or erectile function, investigations on this topic over the past few decades have increased and shed new light. A literature review of studies conducted between 1963 and 2022 regarding male sexual dysfunction (SD) and thyroid disorders was performed to define the diagnostic consideration, pathophysiology, and management of SD secondary to thyroid dysregulation. This article provides evidence and interpretation of prior clinical and preclinical studies and contextualizes these studies for clinical practice. Clinical manifestations of SDs included erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction, impaired spermatogenesis, and disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Our aim of this communication was to perform a literature review detailing the impact of thyroid disorders on male SD. We hope to provide a framework for practicing urologists, endocrinologists, or general practitioners when evaluating patients with concurrent thyroid and male SD. It is important to recognize that thyroid disorders can be an important part of the pathophysiology of male SD in patients. Future research studies are needed to further elucidate the mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Morenas
- Department of Urology, Section of Andrology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Danish Singh
- Department of Urology, Section of Andrology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Wayne J G Hellstrom
- Department of Urology, Section of Andrology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA.
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Muñoz E, Fuentes F, Felmer R, Arias ME, Yeste M. Effects of Reactive Oxygen and Nitrogen Species on Male Fertility. Antioxid Redox Signal 2024; 40:802-836. [PMID: 38019089 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2022.0163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Significance: In recent decades, male fertility has been severely reduced worldwide. The causes underlying this decline are multifactorial, and include, among others, genetic alterations, changes in the microbiome, and the impact of environmental pollutants. Such factors can dysregulate the physiological levels of reactive species of oxygen (ROS) and nitrogen (RNS) in the patient, generating oxidative and nitrosative stress that impairs fertility. Recent Advances: Recent studies have delved into other factors involved in the dysregulation of ROS and RNS levels, such as diet, obesity, persistent infections, environmental pollutants, and gut microbiota, thus leading to new strategies to solve male fertility problems, such as consuming prebiotics to regulate gut flora or treating psychological conditions. Critical Issues: The pathways where ROS or RNS may be involved as modulators are still under investigation. Moreover, the extent to which treatments can rescue male infertility as well as whether they may have side effects remains, in most cases, to be elucidated. For example, it is known that prescription of antioxidants to treat nitrosative stress can alter sperm chromatin condensation, which makes DNA more exposed to ROS and RNS, and may thus affect fertilization and early embryo development. Future Directions: The involvement of extracellular vesicles, which might play a crucial role in cell communication during spermatogenesis and epididymal maturation, and the relevance of other factors such as sperm epigenetic signatures should be envisaged in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwin Muñoz
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Excellence in Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Doctoral Program in Sciences, Major in Applied Cellular and Molecular Biology, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Fernanda Fuentes
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Excellence in Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Doctoral Program in Sciences, Major in Applied Cellular and Molecular Biology, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Ricardo Felmer
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Excellence in Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Department of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - María Elena Arias
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Excellence in Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Department of Agricultural Production, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
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Liu Y, Du M, Li X, Zhang L, Zhao B, Wang N, Dugarjaviin M. Single-Cell Transcriptome Sequencing Reveals Molecular Expression Differences and Marker Genes in Testes during the Sexual Maturation of Mongolian Horses. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1258. [PMID: 38731262 PMCID: PMC11082968 DOI: 10.3390/ani14091258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate differences in testicular tissue morphology, gene expression, and marker genes between sexually immature (1-year-old) and sexually mature (10-year-old) Mongolian horses. The purposes of our research were to provide insights into the reproductive physiology of male Mongolian horses and to identify potential markers for sexual maturity. The methods we applied included the transcriptomic profiling of testicular cells using single-cell sequencing techniques. Our results revealed significant differences in tissue morphology and gene expression patterns between the two age groups. Specifically, 25 cell clusters and 10 cell types were identified, including spermatogonial and somatic cells. Differential gene expression analysis highlighted distinct patterns related to cellular infrastructure in sexually immature horses and spermatogenesis in sexually mature horses. Marker genes specific to each stage were also identified, including APOA1, AMH, TAC3, INHA, SPARC, and SOX9 for the sexually immature stage, and PRM1, PRM2, LOC100051500, PRSS37, HMGB4, and H1-9 for the sexually mature stage. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of testicular development and spermatogenesis in Mongolian horses and have potential applications in equine reproductive biology and breeding programs. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying sexual maturity in Mongolian horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Ming Du
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Bilig Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Na Wang
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Manglai Dugarjaviin
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
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Tan J, Li J, Zhang Y, Li X, Han S, Li Z, Zhou X. Application of photocrosslinked gelatin, alginate and dextran hydrogels in the in vitro culture of testicular tissue. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 260:129498. [PMID: 38232872 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Testicular tissue culture in vitro is considered an important tool for the study of spermatogenesis and the treatment of male infertility. Although agarose hydrogel is commonly used in testicular tissue culture, the efficiency of spermatogenesis in vitro is limited. In this study, testicular tissues from adult mice were cultured using a gas-liquid interphase method based on agarose (Agarose), gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA), alginate methacryloyl (AlgMA), dextran methacryloyl (DexMA), and mixture GelMA-Agarose, AlgMA-Agarose, and DexMA-Agarose hydrogels, respectively, for 32 days in vitro. The integrity of the seminiferous tubules, the density and proportions of spermatogonia, spermatocytes, Sertoli cells, and testosterone concentrations were quantified and compared between groups. Properties of different hydrogels including compression modulus, Fourier Infrared Spectroscopy (FITR) spectra, pore size, water absorption, and water retention were tested to investigate how biochemical and physical properties of hydrogels affect the results of testicular tissue culture. The results indicate that testicular tissues cultured on AlgMA exhibited the highest seminiferous tubule integrity rate (0.835 ± 0.021), the presence of a high density of spermatocytes (2107.627 ± 232.082/mm2), and a high proportion of SOX9-positive well-preserved seminiferous tubules (0.473 ± 0.047) compared to all remaining experimental groups on day 32. This may be due to the high water content of AlgMA reducing the toxic effect of oxygen on testicular tissue. In the later period of culture, testicular tissues cultured on DexMA, not DexMA-Agarose, produced significantly more testosterone (18.093 ± 3.302 ng/mL) than the other groups, suggesting that DexMA is friendly to Leydig cells. Our study provides a new idea for the optimization of the gas-liquid interphase method for achieving in vitro spermatogenesis, facilitating the future achievement of efficient in vitro spermatogenesis in more species, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Tan
- Institute of Biothermal Science and Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Jiahui Li
- Institute of Biothermal Science and Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Yuqi Zhang
- Institute of Biothermal Science and Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Xin Li
- Institute of Biothermal Science and Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Sha Han
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Xinli Zhou
- Institute of Biothermal Science and Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China.
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Sang L, Ge Y, Liu F, Wei K, Shen X, Zhang Y, Li Z, Lu W, Gao X, Zhang Y. Association between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and sex hormone levels in males based on human studies. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 271:115998. [PMID: 38262091 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.115998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitous chemicals in the environment and our daily lives. Several epidemiological studies have revealed that PFAS exposure is linked to male sex hormone levels; however, the conclusions are inconsistent across studies. Consequently, we performed a meta-analysis to systematically evaluate the association between PFAS exposure and male sex hormones. METHODS The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) standards were followed during the meta-analysis. PubMed, Wed of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Ovid databases were used to identify suitable articles before June 2023. The 95% CI and β values were calculated to assess the association between male sex hormone levels and PFAS exposure. Heterogeneity among the included studies was tested using inconsistency statistics (I2). RESULTS The literature search identified 12 published articles that met our search criteria, involving 7506 participants. Our results revealed that perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) exposures were negatively correlated with testosterone (β = -0.05; 95% CI: -0.09, -0.02, P = 0.003) and (β = -0.04; 95% CI: -0.08, 0.00, P = 0.049), respectively. CONCLUSION Exposure to PFNA and PFOA is negatively correlated with changes in male testosterone levels. This correlation suggests that we need to pay attention in the future to whether they are potential risk factors for male reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingli Sang
- Department of Public Health, Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang 222000, China
| | - Yue Ge
- Department of Public Health, Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang 222000, China
| | - Fucun Liu
- Department of Public Health, Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang 222000, China
| | - Kai Wei
- Department of Public Health, Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang 222000, China
| | - Xingyu Shen
- Department of Public Health, Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang 222000, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- Department of Public Health, Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang 222000, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Public Health, Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang 222000, China
| | - Wencen Lu
- Department of Public Health, Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang 222000, China
| | - Xia Gao
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery of Xuzhou Cancer Hospital, XuZhou 2210000, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Public Health, Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang 222000, China.
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Bashiri Z, Movahedin M, Pirhajati V, Asgari H, Koruji M. Ultrastructural study: in vitro and in vivo differentiation of mice spermatogonial stem cells. ZYGOTE 2024; 32:87-95. [PMID: 38149356 DOI: 10.1017/s096719942300062x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Mouse testicular tissue is composed of seminiferous tubules and interstitial tissue. Mammalian spermatogenesis is divided into three stages: spermatocytogenesis (mitotic divisions) in which spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) turn into spermatocytes, followed by two consecutive meiotic divisions in which spermatocytes form spermatids. Spermatids differentiate into spermatozoa during spermiogenesis. Various factors affect the process of spermatogenesis and the organization of cells in the testis. Any disorder in different stages of spermatogenesis will have negative effects on male fertility. The aim of the current study was to compare the in vitro and in vivo spermatogenesis processes before and after transplantation to azoospermic mice using ultrastructural techniques. In this study, mice were irradiated with single doses of 14 Gy 60Co radiation. SSCs isolated from neonatal mice were cultured in vitro for 1 week and were injected into the seminiferous tubule recipient's mice. Testicular cells of neonatal mice were cultured in the four groups on extracellular matrix-based 3D printing scaffolds. The transplanted testes (8 weeks after transplantation) and cultured testicular cells in vitro (after 3 weeks) were then processed for transmission electron microscopy studies. Our study's findings revealed that the morphology and ultrastructure of testicular cells after transplantation and in vitro culture are similar to those of in vivo spermatogenesis, indicating that spermatogenic cell nature is unaltered in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Bashiri
- Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Omid Fertility & Infertility Clinic, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Mansoureh Movahedin
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Medical Sciences Faculty, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Pirhajati
- Neuroscience Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Asgari
- Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Jiang L, Yang F, Liao H, Chen W, Dai X, Peng C, Li Z, Wang H, Zhang T, Cao H. Molybdenum and cadmium cause blood-testis barrier dysfunction through ROS-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation in sheep. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167267. [PMID: 37741404 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
In this study, 24 healthy male sheep were divided into four groups: the control group, Mo group (45 mg Mo·kg-1·BW), Cd group (1 mg Cd·kg-1·BW), and Mo + Cd group (45 mg Mo·kg-1·BW + 1 mg Cd·kg-1·BW). The experiment was last for 50 d. The results showed that Mo and Cd co-exposure induced histopathological changes and ultrastructural damage, decreased the mRNA and protein expression levels of BTB (blood-testis barrier)-related factors (CX-43, ZO-1, OCLN) (P < 0.05) and the T-SOD and CAT activity (P < 0.05), increased the MDA content (P < 0.05) and the proinflammatory factors levels (P < 0.05) in sheep testes. Moreover, the results showed that a sharp decline in BTB-related factors and antioxidase activity, and a significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels (P < 0.05) and the expression levels of NLRP3 inflammasome-related factors (P < 0.05) in primary Sertoli cells (SCs) under Mo and Cd co-exposure. However, treatment with a ROS scavenger or NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors could relieve BTB damage and oxidative injury, reduce the production of ROS (P < 0.05) and decrease the level of inflammatory factors (P < 0.05). Overall, these results indicated that Mo and Cd co-exposure reduced BTB-related protein levels and promoted ROS production and inflammatory reactions by activating the ROS/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in sheep testes, which eventually induced reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Jiang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Fan Yang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Huan Liao
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Weiwei Chen
- Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Xueyan Dai
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Chengcheng Peng
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China; Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, 257 Liu-shi Road, Liuzhou 545005, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Zhiyuan Li
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Huating Wang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Huabin Cao
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China.
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Kong Z, Zhu L, Liu Y, Liu Y, Chen G, Jiang T, Wang H. Effects of azithromycin exposure during pregnancy at different stages, doses and courses on testicular development in fetal mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:116063. [PMID: 38154271 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Azithromycin is a commonly used antibiotic during pregnancy, but some studies have suggested its potential developmental toxicity. Currently, the effects and mechanisms of prenatal azithromycin exposure (PAzE) on fetal testicular development are still unclear. The effects of prenatal exposure to the same drug on fetal testicular development could vary depending on different stages, doses, and courses. Hence, in this study, based on clinical medication characteristics, Kunming mice was administered intragastrically with azithromycin at different stages (mid-/late-pregnancy), doses (50, 100, 200 mg/kg·d), and courses (single-/multi-course). Fetal blood and testicular samples were collected on GD18 for relevant assessments. The results indicated that PAzE led to changes in fetal testicular morphology, reduced cell proliferation, increased apoptosis, and decreased expression of markers related to Leydig cells (Star), Sertoli cells (Wt1), and spermatogonia (Plzf). Further investigation revealed that the effects of PAzE on fetal testicular development were characterized by mid-pregnancy, high dose (clinical dose), and single course having more pronounced effects. Additionally, the TGFβ/Smad and Nrf2 signaling pathways may be involved in the changes in fetal testicular development induced by PAzE. In summary, this study confirmed that PAzE influences fetal testicular morphological development and multicellular function. It provided theoretical and experimental evidence for guiding the rational use of azithromycin during pregnancy and further exploring the mechanisms underlying its developmental toxicity on fetal testicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyu Kong
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Lu Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Guanghui Chen
- Wuhan University People's Hospital, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Suizhou Emergency Medical Center, Suizhou 441300, China.
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan 430071, China.
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Albamonte MI, Vitullo AD. Preservation of fertility in female and male prepubertal patients diagnosed with cancer. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2755-2767. [PMID: 37770817 PMCID: PMC10656407 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02945-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, the importance of fertility preservation has grown not only in the realm of medical and clinical patient care, but also in the field of basic and applied research in human reproduction. With advancements in cancer treatments resulting in higher rates of patient survival, it is crucial to consider the quality of life post-cure. Therefore, fertility preservation must be taken into account prior to antitumor treatments, as it can significantly impact a patient's future fertility. For postpubertal patients, gamete cryopreservation is the most commonly employed preservation strategy. However, for prepubertal patients, the situation is more intricate. Presently, ovarian tissue cryopreservation is the standard practice for prepubertal girls, but further scientific evidence is required in several aspects. Testicular tissue cryopreservation, on the other hand, is still experimental for prepubertal boys. The primary aim of this review is to address the strategies available for possible fertility preservation in prepubertal girls and boys, such as ovarian cryopreservation/transplantation, in vitro follicle culture and meiotic maturation, artificial ovary, transplantation of cryopreserved spermatogonia, and cryopreservation/grafting of immature testicular tissue and testicular organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Itatí Albamonte
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, C1405BCK, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alfredo D Vitullo
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, C1405BCK, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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10
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Fang X, Nie L, Putluri S, Ni N, Bartholin L, Li Q. Sertoli Cell-Specific Activation of Transforming Growth Factor Beta Receptor 1 Leads to Testicular Granulosa Cell Tumor Formation. Cells 2023; 12:2717. [PMID: 38067144 PMCID: PMC10706251 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily, consisting of protein ligands, receptors, and intracellular SMAD transducers, regulates fundamental biological processes and cancer development. Our previous study has shown that sustained activation of TGFβ receptor 1 (TGFBR1) driven by anti-Mullerian hormone receptor type 2 (Amhr2)-Cre in the mouse testis induces the formation of testicular granulosa cell tumors (TGCTs). As Amhr2-Cre is expressed in both Sertoli cells and Leydig cells, it remains unclear whether the activation of TGFBR1 in Sertoli cells alone is sufficient to induce TGCT formation. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine whether Sertoli cell-activation of TGFBR1 drives oncogenesis in the testis. Our hypothesis was that overactivation of TGFBR1 in Sertoli cells would promote their transdifferentiation into granulosa-like cells and the formation of TGCTs. To test this hypothesis, we generated mice harboring constitutive activation of TGFBR1 in Sertoli cells using anti-Mullerian hormone (Amh)-Cre. Disorganized seminiferous tubules and tumor nodules were found in TGFBR1CA; Amh-Cre mice. A histological analysis showed that Sertoli cell-specific activation of TGFBR1 led to the development of neoplasms resembling granulosa cell tumors, which derailed spermatogenesis. Moreover, TGCTs expressed granulosa cell markers including FOXL2, FOXO1, and INHA. Using a dual fluorescence reporter line, the membrane-targeted tdTomato (mT)/membrane-targeted EGFP (mG) mouse, we provided evidence that Sertoli cells transdifferentiated toward a granulosa cell fate during tumorigenesis. Thus, our findings indicate that Sertoli cell-specific activation of TGFBR1 leads to the formation of TGCTs, supporting a key contribution of Sertoli cell reprogramming to the development of this testicular malignancy in our model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Fang
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Linfeng Nie
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Satwikreddy Putluri
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Nan Ni
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Laurent Bartholin
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Université Lyon 1, F-69000 Lyon, France
- Centre Léon Bérard, F-69008 Lyon, France
| | - Qinglei Li
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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11
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Wang J, Liu Z, Cao D, Liu J, Li F, Han H, Han H, Lei Q, Liu W, Li D, Wang J, Zhou Y. Elucidation of the genetic determination of clutch traits in Chinese local chickens of the Laiwu Black breed. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:686. [PMID: 37968610 PMCID: PMC10652520 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09798-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Egg laying rate (LR) is associated with a clutch, which is defined as consecutive days of oviposition. The clutch trait can be used as a selection indicator to improve egg production in poultry breeding. However, little is known about the genetic basis of clutch traits. In this study, our aim was to estimate genetic parameters and identify quantitative trait single nucleotide polymorphisms for clutch traits in 399 purebred Laiwu Black chickens (a native Chinese breed) using a genome-wide association study (GWAS). METHODS In this work, after estimating the genetic parameters of age at first egg, body weight at first egg, LR, longest clutch until 52 week of age, first week when the longest clutch starts, last week when the longest clutch ends, number of clutches, and longest number of days without egg-laying until 52 week of age, we identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and potential candidate genes associated with clutch traits in Laiwu Black chickens. The restricted maximum likelihood method was used to estimate genetic parameters of clutch pattern in 399 Laiwu Black hens, using the GCTA software. RESULTS The results showed that SNP-based heritability estimates of clutch traits ranged from 0.06 to 0.59. Genotyping data were obtained from whole genome re-sequencing data. After quality control, a total of 10,810,544 SNPs remained to be analyzed. The GWAS revealed that 421 significant SNPs responsible for clutch traits were scattered on chicken chromosomes 1-14, 17-19, 21-25, 28 and Z. Among the annotated genes, NELL2, SMYD9, SPTLC2, SMYD3 and PLCL1 were the most promising candidates for clutch traits in Laiwu Black chickens. CONCLUSION The findings of this research provide critical insight into the genetic basis of clutch traits. These results contribute to the identification of candidate genes and variants. Genes and SNPs potentially provide new avenues for further research and would help to establish a framework for new methods of genomic prediction, and increase the accuracy of estimated genetic merit for egg production and clutch traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250023, Shandong, China
| | - Zhansheng Liu
- Shandong Animal Husbandry General Station, Jinan, 250023, China
| | - Dingguo Cao
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250023, Shandong, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250023, Shandong, China
| | - Fuwei Li
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250023, Shandong, China
| | - Heguo Han
- Lijin County Center for Animal Disease Control, Lijin, 257400, China
| | - Haixia Han
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250023, Shandong, China
| | - Qiuxia Lei
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250023, Shandong, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250023, Shandong, China
| | - Dapeng Li
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250023, Shandong, China
| | - Jianxia Wang
- Administrative Examination and Approval Service Bureau of Lijin County, Lijin, 257400, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250023, Shandong, China.
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12
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Feng Y, Wu J, Lei R, Zhang Y, Qiao M, Zhou J, Xu Z, Li Z, Sun H, Peng X, Mei S. N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine Ameliorates BPAF-Induced Porcine Sertoli Cell Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest via Inhibiting the ROS Level. TOXICS 2023; 11:923. [PMID: 37999575 PMCID: PMC10675769 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11110923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol AF (BPAF) is a newly identified contaminant in the environment that has been linked to impairment of the male reproductive system. However, only a few studies have systematically studied the mechanisms underlying BPAF-induced toxicity in testicular Sertoli cells. Hence, this study primarily aims to explore the toxic mechanism of BPAF on the porcine Sertoli cell line (ST cells). The effects of various concentrations of BPAF on ST cell viability and cytotoxicity were evaluated using the Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. The results demonstrated that exposure to a high concentration of BPAF (above 50 μM) significantly inhibited ST cell viability due to marked cytotoxicity. Flow cytometry analysis further confirmed that BPAF facilitated apoptosis and induced cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase. Moreover, BPAF exposure upregulated the expression of pro-apoptotic markers BAD and BAX while downregulating anti-apoptotic and cell proliferation markers BCL-2, PCNA, CDK2, and CDK4. BPAF exposure also resulted in elevated intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), alongside reduced activities of the antioxidants glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Furthermore, the ROS scavenger N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) effectively blocked BPAF-triggered apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Therefore, this study suggests that BPAF induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in ST cells by activating ROS-mediated pathways. These findings enhance our understanding of BPAF's role in male reproductive toxicity and provide a foundation for future toxicological assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Feng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Junjing Wu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Runyu Lei
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Mu Qiao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Jiawei Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Zhong Xu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Zipeng Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Hua Sun
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Xianwen Peng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Shuqi Mei
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan 430070, China
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13
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Tang Y, Zhang B, Shi H, Yan Z, Wang P, Yang Q, Huang X, Gun S. Molecular characterization, expression patterns and cellular localization of BCAS2 gene in male Hezuo pig. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16341. [PMID: 37901468 PMCID: PMC10607209 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Breast carcinoma amplified sequence 2 (BCAS2) participates in pre-mRNA splicing and DNA damage response, which is implicated in spermatogenesis and meiosis initiation in mouse. Nevertheless, the physiological roles of BCAS2 in the testes of large mammals especially boars remain largely unknown. Methods In this study, testes were collected from Hezuo pig at three development stages including 30 days old (30 d), 120 days old (120 d), and 240 days old (240 d). BCAS2 CDS region was firstly cloned using RT-PCR method, and its molecular characteristics were identified using relevant bioinformatics software. Additionally, the expression patterns and cellular localization of BCAS2 were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blot, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Results The cloning and sequence analysis indicated that the Hezuo pig BCAS2 CDS fragment encompassed 678 bp open reading frame (ORF) capable of encoding 225 amino acid residues, and possessed high identities with some other mammals. The results of qRT-PCR and Western blot displayed that BCAS2 levels both mRNA and protein were age-dependent increased (p < 0.01). Additionally, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence results revealed that BCAS2 protein was mainly observed in nucleus of gonocytes at 30 d testes as well as nucleus of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells at 120 and 240 d testes. Accordingly, we conclude that BCAS2 is critical for testicular development and spermatogenesis of Hezuo pig, perhaps by regulating proliferation or differentiation of gonocytes, pre-mRNA splicing of spermatogonia and functional maintenance of Sertoli cells, but specific mechanism still requires be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuran Tang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Haixia Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Zunqiang Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Pengfei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Qiaoli Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Xiaoyu Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Shuangbao Gun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Gansu Research Center for Swine Production Engineering and Technology, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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14
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Xu P, Ren T, Yang Y. PM2.5 mediates mouse testis Sertoli TM4 cell damage by reducing cellular NAD . Toxicol Mech Methods 2023; 33:636-645. [PMID: 37202861 DOI: 10.1080/15376516.2023.2215862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore the mechanism of PM2.5 damage to the reproductive system of male mice. METHODS Mouse testis Sertoli TM4 cells were divided into four groups: a control group (no additional ingredients except for medium), PM2.5 group (medium containing 100 μg/mL PM2.5), PM2.5 + NAM group (medium containing 100 μg/mL PM2.5 and 5 mM NAM), and NAM group (medium containing 5 mM nicotinamide) and cultured in vitro for 24 or 48 h. The apoptosis rate of TM4 cells was measured using flow cytometry, the intracellular levels of NAD+ and NADH were detected using an NAD+/NADH assay kit, and the protein expression levels of SIRT1 and PARP1 were determined by western blotting. RESULTS Mouse testis Sertoli TM4 cells exposed to PM2.5 demonstrated an increase in the apoptosis rate and PARP1 protein expression, albeit a decrease in NAD+, NADH, and SIRT1 protein levels (p = 0.05). These changes were reversed in the group treated with a combination of PM2.5 and nicotinamide (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION PM2.5 can cause Sertoli TM4 cell damage in mouse testes by decreasing intracellular NAD+ levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Xu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P.R. China
| | - Tiantian Ren
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Nosocomial Infection Management, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P.R. China
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15
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Brix N, Gaml-Sørensen A, Ernst A, Arendt LH, Lunddorf LLH, Toft G, Tøttenborg SS, Hærvig KK, Høyer BB, Hougaard KS, Bonde JPE, Ramlau-Hansen CH. Timing of puberty in relation to semen characteristics, testicular volume, and reproductive hormones: a cohort study. Fertil Steril 2023; 120:823-833. [PMID: 37257718 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.05.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether the timing of puberty is associated with semen characteristics, testicular volume, and reproductive hormone levels. DESIGN Cohort study. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENTS The Danish National Birth Cohort and its subcohort, the Fetal Programming of Semen Quality cohort of 1,058 young men. INTERVENTION(S) Self-reported information on the timing (younger, same age, older than peers) of the pubertal markers: voice break (primary exposure), pubic hair growth, regular shaving, and axillary hair growth. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES(S) We estimated the relative differences with 95% confidence intervals for semen characteristics (semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, sperm motility, percentage of morphologically normal spermatozoa), testicular volume, and reproductive hormones (follicle stimulating hormone [FSH], luteinizing hormone, sex hormone-binding globulin [SHBG], testosterone, estradiol, and free androgen index [FAI]) obtained at a median age of 19.2 years according to timing of pubertal development. RESULT(S) Compared with men reporting voice break "same age as peers," men reporting voice break "older than peers" tended to have lower total sperm count (-12% [-25%, 4%]) and lower percent morphologically normal spermatozoa (-10% [-20%, 2%]), whereas men reporting voice break "younger than peers" tended to have a lower proportion of nonprogressive and immotile spermatozoa (-6% [-13%, 1%]) and larger testicular volume (7% [1%, 13%]). The pattern was less consistent for the other pubertal markers. For reproductive hormones, voice break "older than peers" tended to have higher FSH levels (24% [-1%, 55%]), higher SHBG levels (7% [0, 15%]), lower estradiol levels (-14% [-23%, -5%]), and lower FAI (-8% [-14%, -1%]), whereas voice break "younger than peers" tended to have higher luteinizing hormone levels (4% [-2%, 11%]), higher testosterone levels (5% [0%, 11%]), higher estradiol levels (17% [6%, 29%]), and higher FAI (4% [-2%, 11%]). When the categorical pubertal markers were analyzed as a linear term to assess dose dependence, older age at pubertal development was associated with higher FSH levels, higher SHBG levels, lower testosterone levels, lower estradiol levels, and lower FAI for most pubertal markers. CONCLUSION(S) These results lend weak support to the hypothesis that older age at pubertal development is associated with markers of reduced male fecundity, especially reproductive hormone levels, although associations with semen characteristics and testicular volume were statistically insignificant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nis Brix
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit for Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Anne Gaml-Sørensen
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit for Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Andreas Ernst
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit for Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Urology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Linn Håkonsen Arendt
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit for Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Gunnar Toft
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sandra S Tøttenborg
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katia Keglberg Hærvig
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birgit Bjerre Høyer
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit for Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Open Patient data Explorative Network, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Karin S Hougaard
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Peter E Bonde
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Qi HY, Li ZF, Wang LM, Zhao Z, Wang JM, Tan FQ, Yang WX. Myosin VI stabilizes intercellular junctions in the testis through the LHR and MAPK signalling pathway during spermatogenesis in Eriocheir sinensis. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 248:125842. [PMID: 37454996 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The myosin motor protein myosin VI plays an essential role in mammalian spermatogenesis, however, the effects of myosin VI on male reproduction in Crustacea remain obscure. We identified the macromolecule es-Myosin VI in Eriocheir sinensis, and studied it by multiple methods. It co-localized with F-actin and was highly expressed in the testis. We interfered es-Myosin VI using dsRNA in vivo, an apparent decrease in spermatozoa count was detected. We also found that the MAPK signalling pathway was changed, subsequently causing disruption of intercellular junctions and damage to the functional hemolymph-testis barrier. We observed that luteinizing hormone receptor es-LHR was located within seminiferous tubules, which was different from the expression in mammals. Es-LHR could bind with es-Myosin VI in testis of E. sinensis, its localization was significantly altered when es-Myosin VI was deleted. Moreover, we obtained consistent results for the MAPK signalling pathway and spermatogenesis defects between the es-LHR and es-Myosin VI knockdown groups. In summary, our research demonstrated that knockdown of es-Myosin VI disturbed the intercellular junction and HTB function via the MAPK signalling pathway by changing the localization of es-LHR in the testis of E. sinensis, which was the potential reason for its negative impact on spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Yu Qi
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhen-Fang Li
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lan-Min Wang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhan Zhao
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jia-Ming Wang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Fu-Qing Tan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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Younis N, Caldeira-Brant AL, Chu T, Abdalla S, Orwig KE. Human immature testicular tissue organ culture: a step towards fertility preservation and restoration. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1242263. [PMID: 37701899 PMCID: PMC10494240 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1242263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cryopreservation of immature testicular tissue (ITT) is currently the only option to preserve fertility of prepubertal patients. Autologous transplantation of ITT may not be safe or appropriate for all patients. Therefore, methods to mature ITT ex vivo are needed. Objectives Aim to investigate the feasibility of inducing in vitro spermatogenesis from ITT cryopreserved for pediatric patients prior to initiation of gonadotoxic therapy. Materials and methods Cryopreserved-thawed ITT from prepubertal and peripubertal patients were cultured for 7, 16, and 32 days in medium with no hormones or supplemented with 5 IU/L FSH, 1 IU/L hCG, or 5IU/L FSH+1 IU/L hCG. Samples were evaluated histologically to assess tissue integrity, and immunofluorescence staining was performed to identify VASA (DDX4)+ germ cells, UCHL1+ spermatogonia, SYCP3+ spermatocytes, CREM+ spermatids, SOX9+ Sertoli cells. Proliferation (KI67) and apoptosis (CASPASE3) of germ cells and Sertoli cells were also analyzed. Sertoli and Leydig cell maturation was evaluated by AR and INSL3 expression as well as expression of the blood testis barrier protein, CLAUDIN11, and testosterone secretion in the culture medium. Results Integrity of seminiferous tubules, VASA+ germ cells and SOX9+ Sertoli cells were maintained up to 32 days. The number of VASA+ germ cells was consistently higher in the peripubertal groups. UCHL1+ undifferentiated spermatogonia and SOX9+ Sertoli cell proliferation was confirmed in most samples. SYCP3+ primary spermatocytes began to appear by day 16 in both age groups. Sertoli cell maturation was demonstrated by AR expression but the expression of CLAUDIN11 was disorganized. Presence of mature and functional Leydig cells was verified by INSL3 expression and secretion of testosterone. Gonadotropin treatments did not consistently impact the number or proliferation of germ cells or somatic cells, but FSH was necessary to increase testosterone secretion over time in prepubertal samples. Conclusion ITT were maintained in organotypic culture for up to 32 days and spermatogonia differentiated to produce primary spermatocytes in both pre- and peripubertal age groups. However, complete spermatogenesis was not observed in either group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagham Younis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Andre L. Caldeira-Brant
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Tianjiao Chu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Shtaywy Abdalla
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Kyle E. Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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18
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Howard SA, Benhabbour SR. Non-Hormonal Contraception. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4791. [PMID: 37510905 PMCID: PMC10381146 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12144791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
While hormonal contraceptives are efficacious and available in several forms for women, perception of safety and concern over side effects are a deterrent for many. Existing non-hormonal contraceptives include permanent sterilization, copper intrauterine devices (IUDs), chemical/physical barriers such as spermicides and condoms, as well as traditional family planning methods including withdrawal and the rhythm method. Individuals who wish to retain their fertility in the future can achieve highest adherence and efficacy with long-acting, reversible contraceptives (LARCs), though there is only one, the copper IUD, that is non-hormonal. As rates of unintended pregnancies remain high with existing contraceptive options, it is becoming increasingly attractive to develop novel pregnancy prevention methods for both women and men. Non-hormonal contraceptives can target a variety of critical reproductive processes discussed here. This review focuses on identified non-hormonal contraceptive targets and subsequent drug candidates in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Anne Howard
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Soumya Rahima Benhabbour
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University and The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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19
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Totland MZ, Omori Y, Sørensen V, Kryeziu K, Aasen T, Brech A, Leithe E. Endocytic trafficking of connexins in cancer pathogenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023:166812. [PMID: 37454772 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166812] [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: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions are specialized regions of the plasma membrane containing clusters of channels that provide for the diffusion of ions and small molecules between adjacent cells. A fundamental role of gap junctions is to coordinate the functions of cells in tissues. Cancer pathogenesis is usually associated with loss of intercellular communication mediated by gap junctions, which may affect tumor growth and the response to radio- and chemotherapy. Gap junction channels consist of integral membrane proteins termed connexins. In addition to their canonical roles in cell-cell communication, connexins modulate a range of signal transduction pathways via interactions with proteins such as β-catenin, c-Src, and PTEN. Consequently, connexins can regulate cellular processes such as cell growth, migration, and differentiation through both channel-dependent and independent mechanisms. Gap junctions are dynamic plasma membrane entities, and by modulating the rate at which connexins undergo endocytosis and sorting to lysosomes for degradation, cells rapidly adjust the level of gap junctions in response to alterations in the intracellular or extracellular milieu. Current experimental evidence indicates that aberrant trafficking of connexins in the endocytic system is intrinsically involved in mediating the loss of gap junctions during carcinogenesis. This review highlights the role played by the endocytic system in controlling connexin degradation, and consequently gap junction levels, and discusses how dysregulation of these processes contributes to the loss of gap junctions during cancer development. We also discuss the therapeutic implications of aberrant endocytic trafficking of connexins in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yasufumi Omori
- Department of Molecular and Tumour Pathology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | | | | | - Trond Aasen
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andreas Brech
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Centre for Cancer Cell Reprogramming, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Section for Physiology and Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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20
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Navanukraw P, Chotimanukul S, Kemthong T, Choowongkomon K, Chatdarong K. Impaired Testicular Function without Altering Testosterone Concentration Using an Anti-Follicular-Stimulating Hormone Receptor (Anti-FSHr) Single-Chain Variable Fragment (scFv) in Long-Tailed Macaques ( Macaca fascicularis). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2282. [PMID: 37508065 PMCID: PMC10376863 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
FSHr antibodies have been shown to inhibit the differentiation of spermatogonia to primary spermatocytes, resulting in infertility without a pathological effect on reproductive organs. The aim of this study was to develop single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) against the follicular-stimulating hormone receptor (anti-FSHr) using phage-display technology and to evaluate the effects of intratesticular administration of the anti-FSHr scFv on testicular function and testosterone production. A phage clone against the extracellular domain of FSHr selected from a scFv phagemid library was analyzed for binding kinetics by surface plasmon resonance. Using ultrasound guidance, three adult macaques (M. fascicularis) were administered with 1 mL of 0.4 mg/mL anti-FSHr scFv (treatment) and 1 mL sterile phosphate buffer solution (control) into the left and right rete testis, respectively. Testicular appearance and volume, ejaculate quality, and serum testosterone levels were recorded on day 0 (before injection) and on days 7, 28, and 56 (after injection). Testicular tissue biopsies were performed on day 7 and day 56 to quantify the mRNA expressions of androgen binding protein (ABP), inhibin subunit beta B (IHBB), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). The results demonstrated that the anti-FSHr scFv molecule was calculated as 27 kDa with a dissociation constant (KD) of 1.03 µM. The volume of the anti-FSHr scFv-injected testicle was reduced on days 28 and 56 compared with day 0 (p < 0.05). Total sperm number was reduced from day 0 (36.4 × 106 cells) to day 56 (1.6 × 106 cells) (p < 0.05). The percentage of sperm motility decreased from day 0 (81.7 ± 1.0%) to day 7 (23.3 ± 1.9%), day 28 (41.7 ± 53.4%), and day 56 (8.3 ± 1.9%) (p < 0.05). Sperm viability on day 0 was 86.8 ± 0.5%, which reduced to 64.2 ± 1.5%, 67.1 ± 2.2%, and 9.3 ± 1.1% on days 7, 28, and 56, respectively (p < 0.05). The expression of ABP and VEGFA on days 7 (14.2- and 3.2-fold) and 56 (5.6- and 5.5-fold) was less in the scFv-treated testicle compared with the controls (p < 0.05). On day 56, the expression of IHBB was less (p < 0.05) in the treated testis (1.3-fold) compared with the controls. Serum testosterone levels were unchanged throughout the study period (p > 0.05). This study characterized the anti-FSHr scFv and demonstrated that treatment with anti-FSHr ameliorates testicular function without altering testosterone levels, offering a potential alternative contraceptive for the long-tailed macaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pakpoom Navanukraw
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Sroisuda Chotimanukul
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Taratorn Kemthong
- National Primate Research Center of Thailand, Chulalongkorn University, Saraburi 18110, Thailand
| | - Kiattawee Choowongkomon
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Kaywalee Chatdarong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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21
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Wang H, Liu Z, Larsen M, Hastings R, Gunewardena S, Kumar TR. Identification of follicle-stimulating hormone-responsive genes in Sertoli cells during early postnatal mouse testis development. Andrology 2023; 11:860-871. [PMID: 37208854 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the mouse testis, Sertoli cells rapidly divide during a narrow window of time pre-pubertally and differentiate thereafter. The number of Sertoli cells determines the testis size and germ cell-carrying capacity. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) binds its cognate FSH-receptors expressed on Sertoli cells and acts as a mitogen to regulate their proliferation. Fshb-/- mutant adult male mice have reduced Sertoli cell number and testis size and reduced sperm number and motility. However, FSH-responsive genes in early postnatal mouse Sertoli cells are unknown. OBJECTIVES To identify FSH-responsive genes in early postnatal mouse Sertoli cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS A fluorescence-activated cell sorting method was developed to rapidly purify Sertoli cells from control and Fshb-/- mice carrying a Sox9 GfpKI allele. These pure Sertoli cells were used for large-scale gene expression analyses. RESULTS We show that mouse Sertoli cells rarely divide beyond postnatal day 7. Our in vivo BrdU labeling studies indicate loss of FSH results in a 30% reduction in Sertoli cell proliferation in mice at 5 days of age. Flowsorted GFP+ Sertoli cells with maximal Fshr expression were 97%-98% pure and mostly devoid of Leydig and germ cells as assessed by Taqman qPCR quantification of gene expression and immunolabeling of the corresponding cell-specific markers. Large-scale gene expression analysis identified several differentially regulated genes in flow-sorted GFP+ Sertoli cells obtained from testis of control and Fshb-/- mice at 5 days of age. The top 25 networks identified by pathway analysis include those related to the cell cycle, cell survival and most importantly, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and molecular transport. DISCUSSION Several of the FSH-responsive genes identified in this study could serve as useful markers for Sertoli cell proliferation in normal physiology, toxicant-induced Sertoli cell/testis injury, and other pathological conditions. CONCLUSION Our studies reveal that FSH-regulates macromolecular metabolism and molecular transport networks of genes in early postnatal Sertoli cells most likely in preparation for establishment of functional associations with germ cells to successfully coordinate spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huizhen Wang
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Zhenghui Liu
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Mark Larsen
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Richard Hastings
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Sumedha Gunewardena
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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22
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Yao HHC, Rodriguez KF. From Enrico Sertoli to freemartinism: the many phases of the master testis-determining cell†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:866-870. [PMID: 36951956 PMCID: PMC10266947 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells, first identified in the adult testis by Enrico Sertoli in the mid-nineteenth century, are known for their role in fostering male germ cell differentiation and production of mature sperm. It was not until the late twentieth century with the discovery of the testis-determining gene SRY that Sertoli cells' new function as the master regulator of testis formation and maleness was unveiled. Fetal Sertoli cells facilitate the establishment of seminiferous cords, induce appearance of androgen-producing Leydig cells, and cause regression of the female reproductive tracts. Originally thought be a terminally differentiated cell type, adult Sertoli cells, at least in the mouse, retain their plasticity and ability to transdifferentiate into the ovarian counterpart, granulosa cells. In this review, we capture the many phases of Sertoli cell differentiation from their fate specification in fetal life to fate maintenance in adulthood. We also introduce the discovery of a new phase of fetal Sertoli cell differentiation via autocrine/paracrine factors with the freemartin characteristics. There remains much to learn about this intriguing cell type that lay the foundation for the maleness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humphrey Hung-Chang Yao
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Karina F Rodriguez
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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23
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Liu DX, Li ZF, Zhao YS, Wang LM, Qi HY, Zhao Z, Tan FQ, Yang WX. Es-β-CATENIN affects the hemolymph-testes barrier in Eriocheir sinensis by disrupting cell junctions and cytoskeleton. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 242:124867. [PMID: 37201886 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124867] [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: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
β-CATENIN is an evolutionarily conserved multifunctional molecule that maintains cell adhesion as a cell junction protein to safeguard the integrity of the mammalian blood-testes barrier, and also regulates cell proliferation and apoptosis as a key signaling molecule in the WNT/β-CATENIN signaling pathway. In the crustacean Eriocheir sinensis, Es-β-CATENIN has been shown to be involved in spermatogenesis, but the testes of E. sinensis have large and well-defined structural differences from those of mammals, and the impact of Es-β-CATENIN in them is still unknown. In the present study, we found that Es-β-CATENIN, Es-α-CATENIN and Es-ZO-1 interact differently in the testes of the crab compared to mammals. In addition, defective Es-β-CATENIN resulted in increased Es-α-CATENIN protein expression levels, distorted and deformed F-ACTIN, and disturbed localization of Es-α-CATENIN and Es-ZO-1, leading to loss of hemolymph-testes barrier integrity and impaired sperm release. In addition to this, we also performed the first molecular cloning and bioinformatics analysis of Es-AXIN in the WNT/β-CATENIN pathway to exclude the effect of the WNT/β-CATENIN pathway on the cytoskeleton. In conclusion, Es-β-CATENIN participates in maintaining the hemolymph-testes barrier in the spermatogenesis of E. sinensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ding-Xi Liu
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhen-Fang Li
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yan-Shuang Zhao
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lan-Min Wang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Hong-Yu Qi
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhan Zhao
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Fu-Qing Tan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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24
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Wang X, Pei J, Xiong L, Guo S, Cao M, Kang Y, Ding Z, La Y, Liang C, Yan P, Guo X. Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals Atlas of Yak Testis Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097982. [PMID: 37175687 PMCID: PMC10178277 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process that involves proliferation and differentiation of diploid male germ cells into haploid flagellated sperm and requires intricate interactions between testicular somatic cells and germ cells. The cellular heterogeneity of this process presents a challenge in analyzing the different cell types at various developmental stages. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) provides a useful tool for exploring cellular heterogeneity. In this study, we performed a comprehensive and unbiased single-cell transcriptomic study of spermatogenesis in sexually mature 4-year-old yak using 10× Genomics scRNA-seq. Our scRNA-seq analysis identified six somatic cell types and various germ cells, including spermatogonial stem cells, spermatogonia, early-spermatocytes, late-spermatocytes, and spermatids in yak testis. Pseudo-timing analysis showed that Leydig and myoid cells originated from common progenitor cells in yaks. Moreover, functional enrichment analysis demonstrated that the top expressed genes in yak testicular somatic cells were significantly enriched in the cAMP signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, and ECM receptor interactions. Throughout the spermatogenesis process, genes related to spermatogenesis, cell differentiation, DNA binding, and ATP binding were expressed. Using immunohistochemical techniques, we identified candidate marker genes for spermatogonial stem cells and Sertoli cells. Our research provides new insights into yak spermatogenesis and the development of various types of cells in the testis, and presents more reliable marker proteins for in vitro culture and identification of yak spermatogonial stem cells in the later stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingdong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Jie Pei
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Lin Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Shaoke Guo
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Mengli Cao
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Yandong Kang
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Ziqiang Ding
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Yongfu La
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Chunnian Liang
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Ping Yan
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Xian Guo
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
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25
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Chen P, Song Y, Tang L, Zhong W, Zhang J, Cao M, Chen J, Cheng G, Li H, Fan T, Kwok HF, Wang J, Yang C, Xiao W. Tributyltin chloride (TBTCL) induces cell injury via dysregulation of endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy in Leydig cells. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 448:130785. [PMID: 36860030 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.130785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Tributyltin chloride (TBTCL), a commonly used antiseptic substance, is commonly found in the environment. Human exposure to TBTCL through the consumption of contaminated seafood, fish, or drinking water has aroused concern. It is well-characterized that TBTCL has multiple detrimental effects on the male reproductive system. However, the potential cellular mechanisms are not fully elucidated. Here, we characterized molecular mechanisms of TBTCL-induced cell injury in Leydig cells, a critical supporter for spermatogenesis. We showed that TBTCL induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in TM3 mouse Leydig cells. RNA sequencing analyses revealed that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and autophagy were potentially involved in TBTCL-induced cytotoxicity. We further showed that TBTCL causes ER stress and inhibited autophagy flux. Notably, the inhibition of ER stress attenuates not only TBTCL-induces autophagy flux inhibition but also apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Meanwhile, the activation of autophagy alleviates, and inhibition of autophagy exaggerates TBTCL-induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest flux. These results suggest that TBTCL-induced ER stress and autophagy flux inhibition contributed to apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in Leydig cells, providing novel understanding into the mechanisms of TBTCL-induced testis toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengchen Chen
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523125, Guangdong, China
| | - Yali Song
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523125, Guangdong, China
| | - Li Tang
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523125, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenbin Zhong
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523125, Guangdong, China
| | - JingJing Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Min Cao
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Junhui Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Guangqing Cheng
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Huiying Li
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523125, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianyun Fan
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523125, Guangdong, China
| | - Hang Fai Kwok
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macau
| | - Jigang Wang
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523125, Guangdong, China; Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, China; Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Chuanbin Yang
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523125, Guangdong, China; Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, China.
| | - Wei Xiao
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523125, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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26
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Zhang J, Campion S, Catlin N, Reagan WJ, Palyada K, Ramaiah SK, Ramanathan R. Circulating microRNAs as promising testicular translatable safety biomarkers: current state and future perspectives. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:947-961. [PMID: 36795116 PMCID: PMC9933818 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03460-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Drug-induced testicular injury (DITI) is one of the often-observed and challenging safety issues seen during drug development. Semen analysis and circulating hormones currently utilized have significant gaps in their ability to detect testicular damage accurately. In addition, no biomarkers enable a mechanistic understanding of the damage to the different regions of the testis, such as seminiferous tubules, Sertoli, and Leydig cells. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs that modulate gene expression post-transcriptionally and have been indicated to regulate a wide range of biological pathways. Circulating miRNAs can be measured in the body fluids due to tissue-specific cell injury/damage or toxicant exposure. Therefore, these circulating miRNAs have become attractive and promising non-invasive biomarkers for assessing drug-induced testicular injury, with several reports on their use as safety biomarkers for monitoring testicular damage in preclinical species. Leveraging emerging tools such as 'organs-on-chips' that can emulate the human organ's physiological environment and function is starting to enable biomarker discovery, validation, and clinical translation for regulatory qualification and implementation in drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangwei Zhang
- Drug Safety Research & Development, Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development & Medical, 10777 Science Center Dr, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Sarah Campion
- Drug Safety Research & Development, Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development & Medical, 445 Eastern Point Rd., Groton, CT, USA
| | - Natasha Catlin
- Drug Safety Research & Development, Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development & Medical, 445 Eastern Point Rd., Groton, CT, USA
| | - William J Reagan
- Drug Safety Research & Development, Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development & Medical, 445 Eastern Point Rd., Groton, CT, USA
| | - Kiran Palyada
- Drug Safety Research & Development, Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development & Medical, 10777 Science Center Dr, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Shashi K Ramaiah
- Drug Safety Research & Development, Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development & Medical, 1 Portland St., Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Ragu Ramanathan
- Drug Safety Research & Development, Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development & Medical, 445 Eastern Point Rd., Groton, CT, USA.
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Gao H, Cao H, Li Z, Li L, Guo Y, Chen Y, Peng G, Zeng W, Du J, Dong W, Yang F. Exosome-derived Small RNAs in mouse Sertoli cells inhibit spermatogonial apoptosis. Theriogenology 2023; 200:155-167. [PMID: 36806925 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a highly complicated biological process that occurs in the epithelium of the seminiferous tubules. It is regulated by a complex network of endocrine and paracrine factors. Sertoli cells (SCs) play a key role in spermatogenesis due to their production of trophic, differentiation, and immune-modulating factors. However, many of the molecular pathways of SC action remain controversial and unclear. Recently, many studies have focused on exosomes as an important mechanism of intercellular communication. We found that the exosomes derived from mouse SCs inhibited the apoptosis of primary spermatogonia. A total of 1016 miRNAs in SCs and 556 miRNAs in exosomes were detected using miRNA high-throughput sequencing. A total of 294 miRNAs were differentially expressed between SCs and exosomes. Furthermore, 19 tsRNA families appeared in SCs, while 6 tsRNA families appeared in exosomes. A total of 57 and 1 miRNAs (RPM >4) and 14 and 1 tsRNAs were exclusively expressed in SCs and exosomes, respectively. MiR-10b is one of the top ten exosomes with a relatively large enrichment of miRNA. Overexpression of miR-10b downregulates the expression of the target KLF4 to reduce spermatogonial apoptosis in primary spermatogonia or the C18-4 cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huihui Gao
- Center for Wildlife Biology of Qin-Mountains, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China.
| | - Heran Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China.
| | - Zhenpeng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China.
| | - Long Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China.
| | - Yingjie Guo
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China.
| | - Yining Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China.
| | - Guofan Peng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China.
| | - Wenxian Zeng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China.
| | - Jian Du
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| | - Wuzi Dong
- Center for Wildlife Biology of Qin-Mountains, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China.
| | - Fangxia Yang
- Center for Wildlife Biology of Qin-Mountains, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China; College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China.
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28
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Man Y, Liu Y, Xiong C, Zhang Y, Zhang L. Non-Lethal Concentrations of CdCl 2 Cause Marked Alternations in Cellular Stress Responses within Exposed Sertoli Cell Line. TOXICS 2023; 11:167. [PMID: 36851042 PMCID: PMC9962571 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11020167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium is a component of ambient metal pollution, which is linked to diverse health issues globally, including male reproductive impairment. Assessments of the acute effects of cadmium on male reproduction systems, such as testes, tend to be based on frank adverse effects, with particular molecular pathways also involved. The relationship between cytotoxicity potential and cellular stress response has been suggested to be one of the many possible drivers of the acute effects of cadmium, but the link remains uncertain. In consequence, there is still much to be learned about the cellular stress response induced by a non-lethal concentration of cadmium in male reproductive cells. The present study used temporal assays to evaluate cellular stress response upon exposure to non-lethal concentrations of Cadmium chloride (CdCl2) in the Sertoli cell line (TM4). The data showed alternations in the expression of genes intimated involved in various cellular stress responses, including endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, endoplasmic unfolded protein stress (UPRmt), endoplasmic dynamics, Nrf2-related antioxidative response, autophagy, and metallothionein (MT) expression. Furthermore, these cellular responses interacted and were tightly related to oxidative stress. Thus, the non-lethal concentration of cadmium perturbed the homeostasis of the Sertoli cell line by inducing pleiotropic cellular stresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghong Man
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430060, China
- Center of Scientific Research and Experiment, Nanyang Medical College, Nanyang 473006, China
| | - Yunhao Liu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Chuanzhen Xiong
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430060, China
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29
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Belardin LB, Antoniassi MP, Camargo M, Intasqui P, Bertolla RP. Separating the chaff from the wheat: antibody-based removal of DNA-fragmented sperm. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:204-215. [PMID: 36539256 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is it possible to remove sperm with damaged DNA from a semen sample? SUMMARY ANSWER By using immunomagnetic cell sorting that targets the sperm head-bound epididymal sperm-binding protein 1 (ELSPBP1), it was possible to produce an ELSPBP1(-) sperm fraction characterized by consistently lower levels of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In bovines, ELSPBP1 is bound to dead spermatozoa. Human ejaculates with high SDF have increased detected levels of sperm ELSPBP1 when compared to ejaculates with low native SDF. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We recruited 267 patients who were referred to the clinic for conjugal infertility. After applying exclusion criteria, such as fever within 90 days of the study, history of systemic diseases, alterations or surgical interventions to the genital tract and use of cigarette or drugs, a total of 133 patients were included. A total of 52 samples were used for the evaluation of sperm ELSPBP1 levels (Sub-study 1), 41 samples for determination of ELSPBP1 location in human sperm (Sub-study 2), and 40 samples for immunomagnetic cell sorting targeting ELSPBP1, to produce ELSPBP1(-) (without ELSPBP1) and ELSPBP1(+) (with ELSPBP1) fractions (Sub-study 3). Samples were collected between July 2016 and September 2019. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS In Sub-study 1, sperm ELSPBP1 levels were assessed by western blotting. For Sub-study 2, ELSPBP1 was localized in sperm by immunocytochemistry. Finally, for Sub-study 3, sperm were selected based on incubation of semen samples with antibody-coated magnetic microspheres targeting ELSPBP1. Two fractions were produced (with or without ELSPBP1), and these sub-populations were submitted to an alkaline Comet assay for determination of SDF. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Men with high SDF presented higher sperm ELSPBP1 levels when compared to the control group (low SDF), while no difference between groups was observed in seminal plasma. ELSPBP1 was located in the head region of human sperm. The ELSPBP1(+) fractions presented high and variable levels of SDF, while their paired ELSPBP(-) fractions presented consistently low SDF. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This work did not validate the levels of ELSPBP1 in other functional alterations of sperm, such as acrosome integrity or mitochondrial activity. Moreover, this is still a pre-clinical study, intended to demonstrate proof-of-concept that ELSPBP1 selects sperm with low DNA fragmentation; further investigation is warranted to demonstrate safety for use in ART. Sperm fractions were not assessed for sperm vitality. A clinical trial is still necessary for these findings to be extrapolated to outcomes in ART. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings demonstrate that ELSPBP1 is associated with sperm with higher levels of DNA fragmentation. The finding that the sperm membrane can reflect alterations in DNA integrity could give rise to a novel molecular method for sperm preparation prior to use of assisted reproductive procedures. Moreover, the detection of sperm-bound ELSPBP1 could serve as an indirect method for the determination of DNA fragmentation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) L.B.B. was a recipient of a Ph.D. scholarship from the Sao Paulo Research Foundation-FAPESP (process number 2016/05487-3). R.P.B. is a recipient of a Scientific Productivity scholarship from the Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development-CNPq (process number 306705/2017-6). The authors have no conflict of interest to disclose. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- L B Belardin
- Human Reproduction Section, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M P Antoniassi
- Human Reproduction Section, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M Camargo
- Human Reproduction Section, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - P Intasqui
- Human Reproduction Section, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - R P Bertolla
- Human Reproduction Section, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Hospital São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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30
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Zhao Y, Zhang H, Cui JG, Wang JX, Chen MS, Wang HR, Li XN, Li JL. Ferroptosis is critical for phthalates driving the blood-testis barrier dysfunction via targeting transferrin receptor. Redox Biol 2023; 59:102584. [PMID: 36580806 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The global rate of human male infertility is rising at an alarming rate owing to environmental and lifestyle changes. Phthalates are the most hazardous chemical additives in plastics and have an apparently negative impact on the function of male reproductive system. Ferroptosis is a recently described form of iron-dependent cell death and has been linked to several diseases. Transferrin receptor (TfRC), a specific ferroptosis marker, is a universal iron importer for all cells using extracellular transferrin. We aim to investigate the potential involvement of ferroptosis during male reproductive toxicity, and provide means for drawing conclusions on the effect of ferroptosis in phthalates-induced male reproductive disease. In this study, we found that di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) triggered blood-testis barrier (BTB) dysfunction in the mouse testicular tissues. DEHP also induced mitochondrial morphological changes and lipid peroxidation, which are manifestations of ferroptosis. As the primary metabolite of DEHP, mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) induced ferroptosis by inhibiting glutathione defense network and increasing lipid peroxidation. TfRC knockdown blocked MEHP-induced ferroptosis by decreasing mitochondrial and intracellular levels of Fe2+. Our findings indicate that TfRC can regulate Sertoli cell ferroptosis and therefore is a novel therapeutic molecule for reproductive disorders in male patients with infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Hao Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Jia-Gen Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Jia-Xin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Ming-Shan Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Hao-Ran Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Xue-Nan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Jin-Long Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China.
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31
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Dehdari Ebrahimi N, Parsa S, Nozari F, Shahlaee MA, Maktabi A, Sayadi M, Sadeghi A, Azarpira N. Protective effects of melatonin against the toxic effects of environmental pollutants and heavy metals on testicular tissue: A systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1119553. [PMID: 36793277 PMCID: PMC9922902 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1119553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental pollution and infertility are two modern global challenges that agonize personal and public health. The causal relationship between these two deserves scientific efforts to intervene. It is believed that melatonin maintains antioxidant properties and may be utilized to protect the testicular tissue from oxidant effects caused by toxic materials. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify the animal trial studies that evaluated melatonin therapy's effects on rodents' testicular tissue against oxidative stress caused by heavy metal and non-heavy metal environmental pollutants. Data were pooled, and standardized mean difference and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using the random-effect model. Also, the risk of bias was assessed using the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) tool. (PROSPERO: CRD42022369872). RESULTS Out of 10039 records, 38 studies were eligible for the review, of which 31 were included in the meta-analysis. Most of them showed beneficial effects of melatonin therapy on testicular tissue histopathology. [20 toxic materials were evaluated in this review, including arsenic, lead, hexavalent chromium, cadmium, potassium dichromate, sodium fluoride, cigarette smoke, formaldehyde, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), 2-Bromopropane, bisphenol A, thioacetamide, bisphenol S, ochratoxin A, nicotine, diazinon, Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), Chlorpyrifos (CPF), nonylphenol, and acetamiprid.] The pooled results showed that melatonin therapy increased sperm count, motility, viability and body and testicular weights, germinal epithelial height, Johnsen's biopsy score, epididymis weight, seminiferous tubular diameter, serum testosterone, and luteinizing hormone levels, testicular tissue Malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione levels. On the other hand, abnormal sperm morphology, apoptotic index, and testicular tissue nitric oxide were lower in the melatonin therapy arms. The included studies presented a high risk of bias in most SYRCLE domains. CONCLUSION In conclusion, our study demonstrated amelioration of testicular histopathological characteristics, reproductive hormonal panel, and tissue markers of oxidative stress. Melatonin deserves scientific attention as a potential therapeutic agent for male infertility. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022369872.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shima Parsa
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farnoosh Nozari
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Amirhossein Maktabi
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehrab Sayadi
- Cardiovascular research center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alireza Sadeghi
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Negar Azarpira
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- *Correspondence: Negar Azarpira,
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Tekin S, Akgün EE, Ömür AD. A neuroscience-based approach to the assessment of sexual behavior in animals. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1136332. [PMID: 37082135 PMCID: PMC10110897 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1136332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual behavior in animals is important in ensuring the continuity of the generation. These behaviors differ in animal species. Sexual behaviors are shaped under the control of the reproductive system. Physiological stimuli produced by the reproductive system find their counterparts in the organism as reproductive activity. Reproductive activity display a critical role by transferring on the genetic heritage of organisms to the next generations. This activity, which is built on delicate balances, is associated with many systems in the organism. Nervous system, hormonal system, and circulatory system are the main ones. The regular formation of the reproductive activity in species is due to the effect of various factors. In domestic mammals, the reproductive activity is regulated by hormones secreted from brain and endocrine glands. Many hormones have duties in terms of the sustainability of reproductive activity. GnRH is the main hormone responsible for initiating this reproductive activity. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which is a small molecule peptide from certain nerve cells in the nucleus infundibularis region of the hypothalamus and consists of different amino acids, is secreted under the influence of smell, temperature, light, and physical stimulation. Besides, GnRH release is controlled by various neurotransmitters (adrenaline, noradrenaline, dopamine, acetylcholine, serotonin). On the other hand, various genetic factors in secretory glands, gonadal cells, reproductive tissues can lead to significant changes on reproductive activity through specific molecular pathways and mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samet Tekin
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Türkiye
| | - Elif Ece Akgün
- Department of Histology-Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Türkiye
- *Correspondence: Elif Ece Akgün
| | - Ali Doğan Ömür
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Türkiye
- Ali Doğan Ömür
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33
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Huang L, Zhang J, Zhang P, Huang X, Yang W, Liu R, Sun Q, Lu Y, Zhang M, Fu Q. Single-cell RNA sequencing uncovers dynamic roadmap and cell-cell communication during buffalo spermatogenesis. iScience 2022; 26:105733. [PMID: 36582818 PMCID: PMC9793287 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis carries the task of precise intergenerational transmission of genetic information from the paternal genome and involves complex developmental processes regulated by the testicular microenvironment. Studies performed mainly in mouse models have established the theoretical basis for spermatogenesis, yet the wide interspecies differences preclude direct translation of the findings, and farm animal studies are progressing slowly. More than 32,000 cells from prepubertal (3-month-old) and pubertal (24-month-old) buffalo testes were analyzed by using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), and dynamic gene expression roadmaps of germ and somatic cell development were generated. In addition to identifying the dynamic processes of sequential cell fate transitions, the global cell-cell communication essential to maintain regular spermatogenesis in the buffalo testicular microenvironment was uncovered. The findings provide the theoretical basis for establishing buffalo germline stem cells in vitro or culturing organoids and facilitating the expansion of superior livestock breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangfeng Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Junjun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Institute of Medical and Health, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, China
| | - Xingchen Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Weihan Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Runfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Qinqiang Sun
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Yangqing Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China,Corresponding author
| | - Ming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China,Corresponding author
| | - Qiang Fu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China,Corresponding author
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Yan Q, Zhang Y, Wang Q, Yuan L. Autophagy: A Double-Edged Sword in Male Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315273. [PMID: 36499597 PMCID: PMC9741305 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy, an evolutionarily conserved cell reprogramming mechanism, exists in all eukaryotic organisms. It is a fundamental and vital degradation/recycling pathway that removes undesirable components, such as cytoplasmic organelles, misfolded proteins, viruses, and intracellular bacteria, to provide energy and essential materials for organisms. The success of male reproduction depends on healthy testes, which are mainly composed of seminiferous tubules and mesenchyme. Seminiferous tubules are composed of Sertoli cells (SCs) and various germ cells, and the main functional part of mesenchyme are Leydig cells (LCs). In recent years, a large amount of evidence has confirmed that autophagy is active in many cellular events associated with the testes. Autophagy is not only important for testicular spermatogenesis, but is also an essential regulatory mechanism for the ectoplasmic specialization (ES) integrity of SCs, as well as for the normal function of the blood-testes barrier (BTB). At the same time, it is active in LCs and is crucial for steroid production and for maintaining testosterone levels. In this review, we expanded upon the narration regarding the composition of the testes; summarized the regulation and molecular mechanism of autophagy in SCs, germ cells, and LCs; and concluded the roles of autophagy in the process of spermatogenesis and testicular endocrinology. Through integrating the latest summaries and advances, we discuss how the role of autophagy is a double-edged sword in the testes and may provide insight for future studies and explorations on autophagy in male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu Yan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Qi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Correspondence: (Q.W.); (L.Y.)
| | - Ligang Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Correspondence: (Q.W.); (L.Y.)
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35
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Babaei K, Aziminezhad M, Norollahi SE, Vahidi S, Samadani AA. Cell therapy for the treatment of reproductive diseases and infertility: an overview from the mechanism to the clinic alongside diagnostic methods. Front Med 2022; 16:827-858. [PMID: 36562947 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-022-0948-8] [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: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is experienced by 8%-12% of adults in their reproductive period globally and has become a prevalent concern. Besides routine therapeutic methods, stem cells are rapidly being examined as viable alternative therapies in regenerative medicine and translational investigation. Remarkable progress has been made in understanding the biology and purpose of stem cells. The affected pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are further studied for their possible use in reproductive medicine, particularly for infertility induced by premature ovarian insufficiency and azoospermia. Accordingly, this study discusses current developments in the use of some kinds of MSCs such as adipose-derived stem cells, bone marrow stromal cells, umbilical cord MSCs, and menstrual blood MSCs. These methods have been used to manage ovarian and uterine disorders, and each technique presents a novel method for the therapy of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosar Babaei
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
| | - Mohsen Aziminezhad
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran.,UMR INSERM U 1122, IGE-PCV, Interactions Gène-Environment En Physiopathologie Cardiovascular Université De Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Seyedeh Elham Norollahi
- Cancer Research Center and Department of Immunology, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Sogand Vahidi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Samadani
- Guilan Road Trauma Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
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36
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Masola V, Greco N, Tozzo P, Caenazzo L, Onisto M. The role of SPATA2 in TNF signaling, cancer, and spermatogenesis. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:977. [PMID: 36402749 PMCID: PMC9675801 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05432-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The activation of TNF receptors can lead to cell death with a mechanism of cell necrosis regulated genetically and distinct from apoptosis which is defined as necroptosis. Necroptosis has been one of the most studied emerging cell death/signaling pathways in recent years, especially in light of the role of this process in human disease. However, not all regulatory components of TNF signaling have been identified in relation to both physiological and pathological conditions. In 2008, Spata2 (Spermatogenesis-associated protein 2) was identified as one of the seven fundamental genes for the cellular signaling network that regulates necroptosis and apoptosis. This gene had been cloned by our group and named Spata2 as its expression was found to be elevated in the testis compared to other tissues, localized at the Sertoli cell level and FSH-dependent. More recently, it has been demonstrated that deletion of Spata2 gene causes increased inhibin α expression and attenuated fertility in male mice. However, more importantly, five recently published reports have highlighted that SPATA2 is crucial for recruiting CYLD to the TNFR1 signaling complex thus promoting its activation leading to TNF-induced cell death. Loss of SPATA2 increases transcriptional activation of NF-kB and limits TNF-induced necroptosis. Here we will discuss these important findings regarding SPATA2 and, in particular, focus attention on the evidence that suggests a role for this protein in the TNF signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Masola
- grid.5608.b0000 0004 1757 3470Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Nicola Greco
- grid.5608.b0000 0004 1757 3470Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Pamela Tozzo
- grid.5608.b0000 0004 1757 3470Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Luciana Caenazzo
- grid.5608.b0000 0004 1757 3470Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Maurizio Onisto
- grid.5608.b0000 0004 1757 3470Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
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Kirsanov O, Johnson T, Malachowski T, Niedenberger BA, Gilbert EA, Bhowmick D, Ozdinler PH, Gray DA, Fisher-Wellman K, Hermann BP, Geyer CB. Modeling mammalian spermatogonial differentiation and meiotic initiation in vitro. Development 2022; 149:282465. [PMID: 36250451 PMCID: PMC9845750 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In mammalian testes, premeiotic spermatogonia respond to retinoic acid by completing an essential lengthy differentiation program before initiating meiosis. The molecular and cellular changes directing these developmental processes remain largely undefined. This wide gap in knowledge is due to two unresolved technical challenges: (1) lack of robust and reliable in vitro models to study differentiation and meiotic initiation; and (2) lack of methods to isolate large and pure populations of male germ cells at each stage of differentiation and at meiotic initiation. Here, we report a facile in vitro differentiation and meiotic initiation system that can be readily manipulated, including the use of chemical agents that cannot be safely administered to live animals. In addition, we present a transgenic mouse model enabling fluorescence-activated cell sorting-based isolation of millions of spermatogonia at specific developmental stages as well as meiotic spermatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleksandr Kirsanov
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Taylor Johnson
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Taylor Malachowski
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Bryan A. Niedenberger
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Emma A. Gilbert
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Debajit Bhowmick
- Flow Cytometry Facility, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - P. Hande Ozdinler
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60611, USA
| | - Douglas A. Gray
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, K1H 8M5, Canada,Cancer Therapeutics, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Kelsey Fisher-Wellman
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA,East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Brian P. Hermann
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Christopher B. Geyer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA,East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA,Author for correspondence ()
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38
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Faiad W, Soukkarieh C, Murphy DJ, Hanano A. Effects of dioxins on animal spermatogenesis: A state-of-the-art review. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:1009090. [PMID: 36339774 PMCID: PMC9634422 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.1009090] [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: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The male reproductive system is especially affected by dioxins, a group of persistent environmental pollutants, resulting in irreversible abnormalities including effects on sexual function and fertility in adult males and possibly on the development of male offspring. The reproductive toxicity caused by dioxins is mostly mediated by an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). In animals, spermatogenesis is a highly sensitive and dynamic process that includes proliferation and maturation of germ cells. Spermatogenesis is subject to multiple endogenous and exogenous regulatory factors, including a wide range of environmental toxicants such as dioxins. This review discusses the toxicological effects of dioxins on spermatogenesis and their relevance to male infertility. After a detailed categorization of the environmental contaminants affecting the spermatogenesis, the exposure pathways and bioavailability of dioxins in animals was briefly reviewed. The effects of dioxins on spermatogenesis are then outlined in detail. The endocrine-disrupting effects of dioxins in animals and humans are discussed with a particular focus on their effects on the expression of spermatogenesis-related genes. Finally, the impacts of dioxins on the ratio of X and Y chromosomes, the status of serum sex hormones, the quality and fertility of sperm, and the transgenerational effects of dioxins on male reproduction are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walaa Faiad
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Damascus, Damascus, Syria
| | - Chadi Soukkarieh
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Damascus, Damascus, Syria
| | - Denis J. Murphy
- School of Applied Sciences, University of South Wales, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Abdulsamie Hanano
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Atomic Energy Commission of Syria (AECS), Damascus, Syria,Correspondence: Abdulsamie Hanano
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Abstract
The centrosome, consisting of centrioles and the associated pericentriolar material, is the main microtubule-organizing centre (MTOC) in animal cells. During most of interphase, the two centrosomes of a cell are joined together by centrosome cohesion into one MTOC. The most dominant element of centrosome cohesion is the centrosome linker, an interdigitating, fibrous network formed by the protein C-Nap1 anchoring a number of coiled-coil proteins including rootletin to the proximal end of centrioles. Alternatively, centrosomes can be kept together by the action of the minus end directed kinesin motor protein KIFC3 that works on interdigitating microtubules organized by both centrosomes and probably by the actin network. Although cells connect the two interphase centrosomes by several mechanisms into one MTOC, the general importance of centrosome cohesion, particularly for an organism, is still largely unclear. In this article, we review the functions of the centrosome linker and discuss how centrosome cohesion defects can lead to diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hairuo Dang
- Zentrum für Molekulare Biologie der Universität Heidelberg, Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum-ZMBH Allianz, and,Heidelberg Biosciences International Graduate School (HBIGS), Universität Heidelberg, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Elmar Schiebel
- Zentrum für Molekulare Biologie der Universität Heidelberg, Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum-ZMBH Allianz, and
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40
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Zhang NN, Zhang Y, Wang ZZ, Chen NH. Connexin 43: insights into candidate pathological mechanisms of depression and its implications in antidepressant therapy. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:2448-2461. [PMID: 35145238 PMCID: PMC9525669 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00861-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD), a chronic and recurrent disease characterized by anhedonia, pessimism or even suicidal thought, remains a major chronic mental concern worldwide. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is the most abundant connexin expressed in astrocytes and forms the gap junction channels (GJCs) between astrocytes, the most abundant and functional glial cells in the brain. Astrocytes regulate neurons' synaptic strength and function by expressing receptors and regulating various neurotransmitters. Astrocyte dysfunction causes synaptic abnormalities, which are related to various mood disorders, e.g., depression. Increasing evidence suggests a crucial role of Cx43 in the pathogenesis of depression. Depression down-regulates Cx43 expression in humans and rats, and dysfunction of Cx43 also induces depressive behaviors in rats and mice. Recently Cx43 has received considerable critical attention and is highly implicated in the onset of depression. However, the pathological mechanisms of depression-like behavior associated with Cx43 still remain ambiguous. In this review we summarize the recent progress regarding the underlying mechanisms of Cx43 in the etiology of depression-like behaviors including gliotransmission, metabolic disorders, and neuroinflammation. We also discuss the effects of antidepressants (monoamine antidepressants and ketamine) on Cx43. The clarity of the candidate pathological mechanisms of depression-like behaviors associated with Cx43 and its potential pharmacological roles for antidepressants will benefit the exploration of a novel antidepressant target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning-Ning Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Nai-Hong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
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Prokineticin 2/PROK2 and Male Infertility. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102389. [PMID: 36289651 PMCID: PMC9598863 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102389] [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: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility represents about 50% of the causes of infertility in couples. The diagnosis process represents an important procedure for defining, when possible, the causes and approaching treatments (pharmacological, surgical) aimed at overcoming the problem. Several scientific studies have set out to discover early and indicative markers capable of providing information on the biological origin of infertility and increase current knowledge in the context of new potential therapeutic approaches. The prokineticin system (PROK) consists of the prokineticin 1 (PROK1) and prokineticin 2 (PROK2) proteins. Through the activation of two G-protein receptors (PROKR1 and PROKR2) regulate a wide range of biological functions, including gastrointestinal motility, circadian rhythm regulation, neurogenesis, angiogenesis, pain perception, and mood regulation. Several studies have highlighted the crucial role of the PROK system in the development and maturation of both male and female human reproductive organs. Particularly in men, the PROK system represents a new system useful to clarify some aspects of testicular pathophysiology and provide new potential hypotheses for therapeutic intervention. This narrative review aims to illustrate the state of the art regarding, in particular, the role of PROK2 in male infertility.
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Nazifi S, Nazari H, Hassanpour H, Ahmadi E, Afzali A. Co‐culturing or conditioned medium of Sertoli cells: Which one supports in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes and developmental competency of resulting embryos? Vet Med Sci 2022; 8:2646-2654. [DOI: 10.1002/vms3.939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sina Nazifi
- DVM Graduate Student, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Shahrekord University Shahrekord Iran
| | - Hassan Nazari
- Research Institute of Animal Embryo Technology Shahrekord University Shahrekord Iran
| | - Hossein Hassanpour
- Department of Basic Sciences Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University Shahrekord Iran
| | - Ebrahim Ahmadi
- Research Institute of Animal Embryo Technology Shahrekord University Shahrekord Iran
| | - Azita Afzali
- Clinical Embryologist Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences Shahrekord Iran
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Yadav A, Yadav K, Rajpoot A, Lal B, Mishra RK. Sub-chronic restraint stress exposure in adult rats: An insight into possible inhibitory mechanism on testicular function in relation to germ cell dynamics. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14575. [PMID: 36056817 DOI: 10.1111/and.14575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychological stress is now widely recognized as one of the major risk factors for male fertility. Its impact on the dynamics of testicular germ cells, however, has yet to be fully investigated. Therefore, we used the rat restraint stress (RS) model as a psychological stressor to assess the impact of psychological stress on testicular germ cell dynamics. Adult male SD rats were exposed to sub-chronic RS for 1.5 and 3 h per day for 30 days. The quality of cauda epididymis spermatozoa was adversely affected by RS exposure, and the frequency of spermatozoa with tail abnormalities was higher than that of spermatozoa with head abnormalities. RS exposure adversely affected testicular daily sperm production by disturbing the meiotic and post meiotic germ cell kinetics in the testis. The histomorphology of the testis was altered by loosening and vacuolization in the seminiferous epithelium, germ cell exfoliation and the presence of giant cells. Seminiferous tubules of stage I-VI and VII-VIII were severely affected in rats exposed to RS for 3 h. By interfering with steroidogenic enzymes, RS exposure disrupts testosterone biosynthesis. The testicular oxidative balance was also disturbed by RS exposure, which disrupted the levels/activities of lipid peroxidation, Nrf-2, superoxide dismutase and catalase. There was also an increase in caspase-3 activity and a decrease in the Bax-Bcl2 ratio. In conclusion, our findings suggest that psychological stressors like RS impair testicular functions in rats by disrupting germ cell dynamics, downregulating testicular androgenesis and increasing oxidative stress and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anupam Yadav
- Male Reproductive Physiology Lab., Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Kiran Yadav
- Male Reproductive Physiology Lab., Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Arti Rajpoot
- Male Reproductive Physiology Lab., Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Bechan Lal
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Raghav Kumar Mishra
- Male Reproductive Physiology Lab., Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
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Zhu Y, Li X, Lousang-zhaxi, Suolang-zhaxi, Suolang, Ciyang, Sun G, Cidan-yangji, Basang-wangdui. House feeding pattern increased male yak fertility by improving gut microbiota and serum metabolites. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:989908. [PMID: 36118356 PMCID: PMC9478890 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.989908] [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: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Yaks usually live in an extremely harsh natural environment resulting in low reproductive performance, so the production of yak cannot meet local demand in China. In order to solve this problem, the experiment aims to explore the effect of different feeding modes on the semen quality of male yaks, so as to provide a theoretical basis for improving the yield of yaks in Tibet. We used the combined analysis of metabolomics and microbial sequencing to explore the underlying mechanisms that affect the differences in semen quality between the house feeding (HF) system and the free range (FR). The results showed that the sperm motility (P < 0.001) and sperm concentration (P < 0.05) in the HF group were significantly higher than the FR group, and the abnormal sperm rate (P < 0.01) in HF was significantly lower compared to FR. House feeding modes increased some beneficial materials in blood and testis especially some antioxidants, unsaturated fatty acids, and amino acids. House feeding group increased some gut microbiota at genus level namely Rikenellaceae, Bacteroides, Prevotellaceae_UCG-004, Bacteroidales_RF16, and Alloprevotella, DgA-11. It was interesting that blood metabolites, testicular metabolites, and fecal microbiota were well-correlated with sperm parameters. Meanwhile, the blood metabolites and testicular metabolites were well-correlated with microbes. The result indicated that the HF model was beneficial for yak semen quality by improving the gut microbiota and blood metabolism to increase yak fertility.
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45
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mTORC1/C2 regulate spermatogenesis in Eriocheir sinensis via alterations in the actin filament network and cell junctions. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 390:293-313. [PMID: 36044078 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03680-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a finely regulated process of germ cell proliferation and differentiation that leads to the production of sperm in seminiferous tubules. Although the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is crucial for spermatogenesis in mammals, its functions and molecular mechanisms in spermatogenesis remain largely unknown in nonmammalian species, particularly in Crustacea. In this study, we first identified es-Raptor (the core component of mTOR complex 1) and es-Rictor (the core component of mTOR complex 2) from the testis of Eriocheir sinensis. Dynamic localization of es-Raptor and es-Rictor implied that these proteins were indispensable for the spermatogenesis of E. sinensis. Furthermore, es-Raptor and es-Rictor knockdown results showed that the mature sperm failed to be released, causing almost empty lumens in the testis. We investigated the reasons for these effects and found that the actin-based cytoskeleton was disrupted in the knockdown groups. In addition, the integrity of the testis barrier (similar to the blood-testis barrier in mammals) was impaired and affected the expression of cell junction proteins. Further study revealed that es-Raptor and es-Rictor may regulate spermatogenesis via both mTORC1- and mTORC2-dependent mechanisms that involve es-rpS6 and es-Akt/es-PKC, respectively. Moreover, to explore the testis barrier in E. sinensis, we established a cadmium chloride (CdCl2)-induced testis barrier damage model as a positive control. Morphological and immunofluorescence results were similar to those of the es-Raptor and es-Rictor knockdown groups. Altogether, es-Raptor and es-Rictor were important for spermatogenesis through maintenance of the actin filament network and cell junctions in E. sinensis.
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46
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Jiang Q, Di Q, Shan D, Xu Q. Nonylphenol inhibited HIF-1alpha regulated aerobic glycolysis and induced ROS mediated apoptosis in rat Sertoli cells. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 241:113822. [PMID: 35777343 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113822] [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: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Nonylphenol (NP) is an endocrine disruptor with reproductive toxicity, which can induce apoptosis of Sertoli cells (SCs). SCs have a high aerobic glycolytic flux to ensure sufficient lactate for germ cells as central energy metabolite, and hypoxia-inducible factors 1alpha (HIF-1α) is a major regulator of glycolysis. This study aimed to investigate whether NP can alter HIF-1α-regulated aerobic glycolysis metabolism and thus induce apoptosis in rat SCs. The results revealed that cell viability, intracellular and extracellular lactate levels, the expression of Hk2, Ldha and Mct4, and the protein levels of HIF-1α, HK2, LDHA and MCT4 were decreased significantly when rat SCs exposed to 20 and 30 μM NP for 24 h. Compared with the 30 μM NP group, the protein levels of HIF-1α, HK2 and LDHA, the expression of Hk2 and Ldha and intracellular lactate levels were increased in 30 μM NP and 125 μM cobalt chloride (CoCl2, inhibitor of HIF-1α proteasome-mediated degradation) co-treated group. Furthermore, the elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis induced by 30 μM NP were also reversed. In summary, exposure to NP inhibited the ability of SCs to produce and secrete lactate. Meanwhile, NP exposure could lead to a decrease in HIF-1α thereby inhibiting aerobic glycolysis in rat SCs, disrupting intracellular homeostasis and further inducing ROS-mediated apoptosis. This research is the first to explore the NP toxicity on SCs function with respect to nutrition support to germ cells, and provide new evidence on the inhibition of aerobic glycolysis inducing ROS-mediated apoptosis in SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qiannan Di
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dandan Shan
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
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47
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Dang H, Martin‐Villalba A, Schiebel E. Centrosome linker protein C-Nap1 maintains stem cells in mouse testes. EMBO Rep 2022; 23:e53805. [PMID: 35599622 PMCID: PMC9253759 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202153805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The centrosome linker component C-Nap1 (encoded by CEP250) anchors filaments to centrioles that provide centrosome cohesion by connecting the two centrosomes of an interphase cell into a single microtubule organizing unit. The role of the centrosome linker during development of an animal remains enigmatic. Here, we show that male CEP250-/- mice are sterile because sperm production is abolished. Premature centrosome separation means that germ stem cells in CEP250-/- mice fail to establish an E-cadherin polarity mark and are unable to maintain the older mother centrosome on the basal site of the seminiferous tubules. This failure prompts premature stem cell differentiation in expense of germ stem cell expansion. The concomitant induction of apoptosis triggers the complete depletion of germ stem cells and consequently infertility. Our study reveals a role for centrosome cohesion in asymmetric cell division, stem cell maintenance, and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hairuo Dang
- Zentrum für Molekulare Biologie der Universität HeidelbergDeutsches Krebsforschungszentrum‐ZMBH AllianzUniversität HeidelbergHeidelbergGermany
- Heidelberg Biosciences International Graduate School (HBIGS)Universität HeidelbergHeidelbergGermany
| | - Ana Martin‐Villalba
- Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum‐ZMBH AllianzUniversität HeidelbergHeidelbergGermany
| | - Elmar Schiebel
- Zentrum für Molekulare Biologie der Universität HeidelbergDeutsches Krebsforschungszentrum‐ZMBH AllianzUniversität HeidelbergHeidelbergGermany
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48
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Liu Q, Wang H, Wang H, Li N, He R, Liu Z. Per1/Per2 Disruption Reduces Testosterone Synthesis and Impairs Fertility in Elderly Male Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137399. [PMID: 35806403 PMCID: PMC9266724 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Circadian rhythm disorders caused by genetic or environmental factors lead to decreased male fertility but the mechanisms are poorly understood. The current study reports that the mechanism of Per1/Per2 Double knockout (DKO) reduced the reproductive capacity of elderly male mice. The sperm motility and spermatogenic capacity of male DKO mice were weak. Hormone-targeted metabolomics showed reduced plasma levels of free testosterone in DKO male mice compared with WT male mice. Transcriptomic analysis of testicular tissue showed the down-regulation of testosterone synthesis-related enzymes (Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, Hsd17b3, Hsd3b1, and Star) in the steroid hormone synthesis pathway. Spermatogenesis genes, Tubd1 and Pafah1b were down-regulated, influencing tubulin dynamics and leading to impaired motility. Seleno-compound metabolic loci, Scly and Sephs2, were up-regulated and Slc7a11 and Selenop were down-regulated. Western-blotting showed that steroid acute regulatory protein (StAR) and p-CREB, PKA and AC1 were reduced in testicular tissue of DKO mice compared to WT. Therefore, Per1/Per2 disruption reduced testosterone synthesis and sperm motility by affecting the PKA-StAR pathway, leading to decreased fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ruyi He
- Correspondence: (R.H.); (Z.L.)
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49
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Beltrán-Frutos E, Seco-Rovira V, Martínez-Hernández J, Ferrer C, Serrano-Sánchez MI, Pastor LM. Cellular Modifications in Spermatogenesis during Seasonal Testicular Regression: An Update Review in Mammals. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12131605. [PMID: 35804504 PMCID: PMC9265002 DOI: 10.3390/ani12131605] [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: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The most common form of reproduction in mammals is seasonal reproduction. This ensures that offspring are born at the most suitable time for survival, due to the abundance of food and the optimal temperatures for early postnatal development. In males, one way to achieve this is to decrease or lose fertility over a given period. This loss is associated with a greater or lesser degree of spermatogenesis modification that affects both germ and Sertoli cells. This paper reviews the different cellular mechanisms that have been postulated in recent years to explain how the activity of the seminiferous epithelium decreases during the non-reproductive period. Abstract Testicular regression occurs during the non-breeding season in many mammals. This affects spermatogenesis, resulting in decreased or arrested activity. Both lead to a decrease or cessation in sperm production. In recent years, the cellular mechanisms that lead to infertility in males in non-reproductive periods have been studied in very different species of mammals. At the start of the present century, the main mechanism involved was considered as an increase in the apoptotic activity of germ cells during the regression period. The loss of spermatogonia and spermatocytes causes not only a decrease in spermatogenesis, but an arrest of the seminiferous epithelium activity at the end of regression. Recently, in some mammal species, it was found that apoptosis is the usual mechanism involved in epithelium activity arrest, although it is firstly atrophied by massive desquamation of the germ cells that are released from their binding with the Sertoli cells, and which are shed into the lumen of the seminiferous tubule. In other species, it has been shown that not only germ cell apoptosis, but also Sertoli cell apoptosis, including decreased proliferative activity, spermatophagy or autophagy, are involved in testicular regression. Furthermore, the most recent studies indicate that there are multiple patterns of seminiferous epithelium regression in seasonally breeding animals, which may not only be used by different species, but also by the same ones to reproduce in the best conditions, ensuring their survival. In conclusion, at this time, it is not possible to consider the existence of a paradigmatic cellular mechanism in the involution of the seminiferous epithelium applicable to all male mammals with seasonal reproduction, rather the existence of several mechanisms which participate to a greater or lesser extent in each of the species that have been studied to date.
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Zhang W, Xia S, Zhong X, Gao G, Yang J, Wang S, Cao M, Liang Z, Yang C, Wang J. Characterization of 2,2'4,4'-Tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE47)-induced testicular toxicity via single-cell RNA-sequencing. PRECISION CLINICAL MEDICINE 2022; 5:pbac016. [PMID: 35875604 PMCID: PMC9306015 DOI: 10.1093/pcmedi/pbac016] [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: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The growing male reproductive diseases have been linked to higher exposure to certain environmental compounds such as 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE47) that are widely distributed in the food chain. However, the specific underlying molecular mechanisms for BDE47-induced male reproductive toxicity are not completely understood. Methods Here, for the first time, advanced single-cell RNA sequencing (ScRNA-seq) was employed to dissect BDE47-induced prepubertal testicular toxicity in mice from a pool of 76 859 cells. Results Our ScRNA-seq results revealed shared and heterogeneous information of differentially expressed genes, signaling pathways, transcription factors, and ligands-receptors in major testicular cell types in mice upon BDE47 treatment. Apart from disruption of hormone homeostasis, BDE47 was discovered to downregulate multiple previously unappreciated pathways such as double-strand break repair and cytokinesis pathways, indicative of their potential roles involved in BDE47-induced testicular injury. Interestingly, transcription factors analysis of ScRNA-seq results revealed that Kdm5b (lysine-specific demethylase 5B), a key transcription factor required for spermatogenesis, was downregulated in all germ cells as well as in Sertoli and telocyte cells in BDE47-treated testes of mice, suggesting its contribution to BDE47-induced impairment of spermatogenesis. Conclusions Overall, for the first time, we established the molecular cell atlas of mice testes to define BDE47-induced prepubertal testicular toxicity using the ScRNA-seq approach, providing novel insight into our understanding of the underlying mechanisms and pathways involved in BDE47-associated testicular injury at a single-cell resolution. Our results can serve as an important resource to further dissect the potential roles of BDE47, and other relevant endocrine-disrupting chemicals, in inducing male reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) , Shenzhen 518020 , China
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Postdoctoral Research Station, Jinan University , Guangzhou 510632 , China
| | - Siyu Xia
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) , Shenzhen 518020 , China
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Postdoctoral Research Station, Jinan University , Guangzhou 510632 , China
| | - Xiaoru Zhong
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) , Shenzhen 518020 , China
| | - Guoyong Gao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) , Shenzhen 518020 , China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) , Shenzhen 518020 , China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) , Shenzhen 518020 , China
| | - Min Cao
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) , Shenzhen 518020 , China
| | - Zhen Liang
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) , Shenzhen 518020 , China
| | - Chuanbin Yang
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) , Shenzhen 518020 , China
| | - Jigang Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) , Shenzhen 518020 , China
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences , Beijing 100700 , China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Southern Medical University , Dongguan, 523125, Guangdong , China
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