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Oberska P, Grabowska M, Marynowska M, Murawski M, Gączarzewicz D, Syczewski A, Michałek K. Cellular Distribution of Aquaporin 3, 7 and 9 in the Male Reproductive System: A Lesson from Bovine Study ( Bos taurus). Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1567. [PMID: 38338845 PMCID: PMC10855163 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031567] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The increasing incidence of male infertility in humans and animals creates the need to search for new factors that significantly affect the course of reproductive processes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the temporospatial expression of aquaglyceroporins (AQP3, AQP7 and AQP9) in the bovine (Bos taurus) reproductive system using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. The study also included morphological analysis and identification of GATA-4. In brief, in immature individuals, AQP3 and AQP7 were found in gonocytes. In reproductive bulls, AQP3 was observed in spermatocytes and spermatogonia, while AQP7 was visible in all germ cells and the Sertoli cells. AQP7 and AQP9 were detected in the Leydig cells. Along the entire epididymis of reproductive bulls, aquaglyceroporins were visible, among others, in basal cells (AQP3 and AQP7), in epididymal sperm (AQP7) and in the stereocilia of the principal cells (AQP9). In males of all ages, aquaglyceroporins were identified in the principal and basal cells of the vas deferens. An increase in the expression of AQP3 in the testis and cauda epididymis and a decrease in the abundance of AQP7 in the vas deferens with age were found. In conclusion, age-related changes in the expression and/or distribution patterns of AQP3, AQP7 and AQP9 indicate the involvement of these proteins in the normal development and course of male reproductive processes in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Oberska
- Department of Physiology, Cytobiology and Proteomics, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland; (P.O.); (M.M.)
| | - Marta Grabowska
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Marta Marynowska
- Department of Physiology, Cytobiology and Proteomics, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland; (P.O.); (M.M.)
| | - Maciej Murawski
- Department of Nutrition, Animal Biotechnology and Fisheries, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 24/28 Mickiewicza Avenue, 30-059 Cracow, Poland;
| | - Dariusz Gączarzewicz
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland;
| | | | - Katarzyna Michałek
- Department of Physiology, Cytobiology and Proteomics, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland; (P.O.); (M.M.)
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Martinez-Madrid B, Martínez-Cáceres C, Pequeño B, Castaño C, Toledano-Díaz A, Bóveda P, Prieto P, Alvarez-Rodriguez M, Rodriguez-Martinez H, Santiago-Moreno J. Immunolocalisation of aquaporins 3, 7, 9 and 10 in the epididymis of three wild ruminant species (Iberian ibex, mouflon and chamois) and sperm cryoresistance. Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 35:708-721. [PMID: 37968880 DOI: 10.1071/rd23091] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT In the epididymis, epithelial cells manage changes in the luminal environment for proper sperm maturation. Moreover, aquaglyceroporins, a subgroup of aquaporins (AQP), modulate the transport of water, glycerol and other small molecules in epithelial cells. AIMS We aim to characterise the lining epithelium, quantify its cell composition and immunolocalise the aquaglyceroporins AQP3, AQP7, AQP9 and AQP10 alongside the epididymal ductus of three wild ruminant species, and to determine if species-specific differences could be associated with cauda sperm cryoresistance variations. METHODS Epididymides from Iberian ibex (n =5), mouflon (n =5) and chamois (n =6) were obtained. Cauda spermatozoa were collected and sperm parameters were analysed before and after freezing. Histology and immunohistochemistry of AQP3, 7, 9, 10 and T-CD3 were performed in the caput, corpus and cauda epididymal regions. KEY RESULTS This work first describes the lining epithelium in Iberian ibex, mouflon and chamois epididymis along the three anatomical regions, consisting of principal, basal, apical, clear and halo cells. However, the percentage of each cell type differed in ibex compared to mouflon and chamois. The positive T-CD3 immunolabeling of all the halo cells confirmed their T-lymphocyte nature. Aquaglyceroporin expression patterns were similar among species, except for differences in AQP7 and AQP10 immunolocalisation in ibex. Species-specific differences in epididymal sperm cryoresistance were confirmed. CONCLUSIONS The epididymal epithelium of the three wild ruminants differ in their relative number of cell types and AQP immunolocalisation, which ultimately appears to affect cauda epidydimal spermatozoa cryoresistance. IMPLICATIONS Our study provides information on the relevance of the quantitative composition and AQP pattern expression in epididymal lining epithelium on sperm cryoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belen Martinez-Madrid
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Carlos Martínez-Cáceres
- Pathology core, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia Pascual Parrilla (IMIB), Ctra. Buenavista s/n, El Palmar, Murcia 30120, Spain
| | - Belén Pequeño
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology, Spanish Scientific Research Council (INIA-CSIC), Avda. Puerta de Hierro km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Cristina Castaño
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology, Spanish Scientific Research Council (INIA-CSIC), Avda. Puerta de Hierro km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Adolfo Toledano-Díaz
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology, Spanish Scientific Research Council (INIA-CSIC), Avda. Puerta de Hierro km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Paula Bóveda
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology, Spanish Scientific Research Council (INIA-CSIC), Avda. Puerta de Hierro km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Paloma Prieto
- Consejería de Sostenibilidad, Medio Ambiente y Economía Azul, Junta de Andalucía, Jaén, Spain
| | - Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology, Spanish Scientific Research Council (INIA-CSIC), Avda. Puerta de Hierro km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Julián Santiago-Moreno
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology, Spanish Scientific Research Council (INIA-CSIC), Avda. Puerta de Hierro km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
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Ibrahim M, Ferreira G, Venter EA, Botha CJ. Cytotoxicity, morphological and ultrastructural effects induced by the neonicotinoid pesticide, imidacloprid, using a rat Leydig cell line (LC-540). ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 104:104310. [PMID: 37926370 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104310] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Imidacloprid is a systemic neonicotinoid insecticide widely used to combat agricultural pests and flea infestations in dogs and cats. Despite its low toxicity to mammals, imidacloprid is reported to cause male reproductive toxicity. This study evaluated the cytotoxic effects of 75-800 μM imidacloprid on a rat Leydig cell line (LC-540). The effect of exposure to 300, 400, and 500 µM imidacloprid on selected cytoskeletal proteins, mitochondrial morphology, lysosomal acidity, and ultrastructure were investigated. Cell viability was markedly reduced after 48 and 72 h of exposure to higher imidacloprid concentrations. The immunocytochemical analysis revealed that the cytoskeletal filaments exhibited disorganization, disruption, and perinuclear aggregation in treated LC-540 cells. Ultrastructurally, cytoplasmic vacuoles, autophagic vacuoles, lysosomes, and mitochondrial damage were detected. Changes in the mitochondrial morphology and lysosomes induced by imidacloprid were confirmed. The cytotoxicity of imidacloprid observed in LC-540 cells might be due to its mitochondrial damage and cytoskeletal protein disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Ibrahim
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa.
| | - Gch Ferreira
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
| | - E A Venter
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
| | - C J Botha
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
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Immunohistochemical Changes in the Testicular Excurrent Duct System of Healthy, Male Japanese Quail ( Coturnix coturnix japonica) Observed at 4, 6-7, 12, and 52 Weeks of Age. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214028. [PMID: 36430504 PMCID: PMC9694578 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214028] [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: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunolocalization of the cytoskeletal and the extracellular matrix proteins was investigated in the testicular excurrent duct system of healthy Japanese quail at 4, 6−7, 12 and 52 weeks of age. TdT dUTP Nick End Labeling (TUNEL) assay was used to assess apoptotic cell formation. The epithelia of the testicular excurrent duct system in birds of all age groups displayed various immunolabeling intensities and localization of cytokeratin 5 and beta-tubulin, while α-SMA was observed in epithelia only of 4-week-old birds. In all age groups, vimentin immunostaining was observed in the rete testes and efferent ductular epithelia, but not in the epididymal duct unit. The periductal smooth muscle cells of the excurrent duct system displayed variably intense immunopositivity with cytokeratin 5, desmin, fibronectin, α-SMA, and beta-tubulin. Furthermore, beta-tubulin and vimentin immunolabeled endothelial cells and fibroblasts with various intensities, while fibronectin immunostained extracellular matrices surrounding these cells. TUNEL-positive apoptotic cells were observed in the rete testes and efferent ductular epithelia, with increased frequency (p < 0.001) in 52-week-old birds. The study serves as a baseline normal for this region in healthy birds at 4, 6−7, 12, and 52 weeks of age, for comparison in future similar immunohistochemical studies involving environmental toxins affecting this region.
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Barrachina F, Battistone MA, Castillo J, Mallofré C, Jodar M, Breton S, Oliva R. Sperm acquire epididymis-derived proteins through epididymosomes. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:651-668. [PMID: 35137089 PMCID: PMC8971652 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are epididymosomes implicated in protein transfer from the epididymis to spermatozoa? SUMMARY ANSWER We characterized the contribution of epididymal secretions to the sperm proteome and demonstrated that sperm acquire epididymal proteins through epididymosomes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Testicular sperm are immature cells unable to fertilize an oocyte. After leaving the testis, sperm transit along the epididymis to acquire motility and fertilizing abilities. It is well known that marked changes in the sperm proteome profile occur during epididymal maturation. Since the sperm is a transcriptional and translational inert cell, previous studies have shown that sperm incorporate proteins, RNA and lipids from extracellular vesicles (EVs), released by epithelial cells lining the male reproductive tract. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We examined the contribution of the epididymis to the post-testicular maturation of spermatozoa, via the production of EVs named epididymosomes, released by epididymal epithelial cells. An integrative analysis using both human and mouse data was performed to identify sperm proteins with a potential epididymis-derived origin. Testes and epididymides from adult humans (n = 9) and adult mice (n = 3) were used to experimentally validate the tissue localization of four selected proteins using high-resolution confocal microscopy. Mouse epididymal sperm were co-incubated with carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE)-labeled epididymosomes (n = 4 mice), and visualized using high-resolution confocal microscopy. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Adult (12-week-old) C57BL/CBAF1 wild-type male mice and adult humans were used for validation purposes. Testes and epididymides from both mice and humans were obtained and processed for immunofluorescence. Mouse epididymal sperm and mouse epididymosomes were obtained from the epididymal cauda segment. Fluorescent epididymosomes were obtained after labeling the epididymal vesicles with CFSE dye followed by epididymosome isolation using a density cushion. Immunofluorescence was performed following co-incubation of sperm with epididymosomes in vitro. High-resolution confocal microscopy and 3D image reconstruction were used to visualize protein localization and sperm-epididymosomes interactions. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Through in silico analysis, we first identified 25 sperm proteins with a putative epididymal origin that were conserved in both human and mouse spermatozoa. From those, the epididymal origin of four sperm proteins (SLC27A2, EDDM3B, KRT19 and WFDC8) was validated by high-resolution confocal microscopy. SLC27A2, EDDM3B, KRT19 and WFDC8 were all detected in epithelial cells lining the human and mouse epididymis, and absent from human and mouse seminiferous tubules. We found region-specific expression patterns of these proteins throughout the mouse epididymides. In addition, while EDDM3B, KRT19 and WFDC8 were detected in both epididymal principal and clear cells (CCs), SLC27A2 was exclusively expressed in CCs. Finally, we showed that CFSE-fluorescently labeled epididymosomes interact with sperm in vitro and about 12-36% of the epididymosomes contain the targeted sperm proteins with an epididymal origin. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The human and mouse sample size was limited and our results were descriptive. The analyses of epididymal sperm and epididymosomes were solely performed in the mouse model due to the difficulties in obtaining epididymal luminal fluid human samples. Alternatively, human ejaculated sperm and seminal EVs could not be used because ejaculated sperm have already contacted with the fluids secreted by the male accessory sex glands, and seminal EVs contain other EVs in addition to epididymosomes, such as the abundant prostate-derived EVs. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings indicate that epididymosomes are capable of providing spermatozoa with a new set of epididymis-derived proteins that could modulate the sperm proteome and, subsequently, participate in the post-testicular maturation of sperm cells. Additionally, our data provide further evidence of the novel role of epididymal CCs in epididymosome production. Identifying mechanisms by which sperm mature to acquire their fertilization potential would, ultimately, lead to a better understanding of male reproductive health and may help to identify potential therapeutic strategies to improve male infertility. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness (Ministerio de Economía y Competividad; fondos FEDER 'una manera de hacer Europa' PI13/00699 and PI16/00346 to R.O.; and Sara Borrell Postdoctoral Fellowship, Acción Estratégica en Salud, CD17/00109 to J.C.), by National Institutes of Health (grants HD040793 and HD069623 to S.B., grant HD104672-01 to M.A.B.), by the Spanish Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports (Ministerio de Educación, Cultura y Deporte para la Formación de Profesorado Universitario, FPU15/02306 to F.B.), by a Lalor Foundation Fellowship (to F.B. and M.A.B.), by the Government of Catalonia (Generalitat de Catalunya, pla estratègic de recerca i innovació en salut, PERIS 2016-2020, SLT002/16/00337 to M.J.), by Fundació Universitària Agustí Pedro i Pons (to F.B.), and by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (PROLAB Award from ASBMB/IUBMB/PABMB to F.B.). Confocal microscopy and transmission electron microscopy was performed in the Microscopy Core facility of the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Center for Systems Biology/Program in Membrane Biology which receives support from Boston Area Diabetes and Endocrinology Research Center (BADERC) award DK57521 and Center for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease grant DK43351. The Zeiss LSM800 microscope was acquired using an NIH Shared Instrumentation Grant S10-OD-021577-01. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Barrachina
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M A Battistone
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - J Castillo
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Mallofré
- Department of Pathology, Universitat de Barcelona, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Jodar
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - S Breton
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - R Oliva
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
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Machado-Neves M. Effect of heavy metals on epididymal morphology and function: An integrative review. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 291:133020. [PMID: 34848222 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.133020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Male fertility has deteriorated over the last decades, and environmental risk factors are among the possible causes of this phenomenon. Pollutants such as heavy metals might accumulate in male reproductive organs to levels that are associated with reproductive disorders. Several studies reported detrimental effects of inorganic arsenic (iAs+3/iAs+5), cadmium (Cd+2), lead (Pb+2), and mercury (Hg+2/CH3Hg+2) on the epididymis, which plays a crucial role in sperm maturation. However, the magnitude of their effects and the consequences on the physiology of the epididymis are still unclear. Therefore, an integrative review with meta-analyses was conducted examining 138 studies to determine how exposure to arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury affects epididymal morphology and functions, using primarily murine data from experimental studies as a source. This study showed that exposure to metal(loids) reduced epididymal weight, sperm motility, and sperm number. Inorganic arsenic, cadmium, and lead damaged sperm structures within the epididymal duct. While sodium arsenite, sodium arsenate, and lead acetate generate oxidative stress by an imbalance between ROS production and scavenging, cadmium chloride causes an increase in the pH level of the luminal fluid (from 6.5 to 7.37) that diminishes sperm viability. Inorganic arsenic induced a delay in the sperm transit time by modulating noradrenaline and dopamine secretion. Subacute exposure to heavy metals at concentrations < 0.1 mg L-1 initiates a dyshomeostasis of calcium, copper, iron, and zinc that disturbs sperm parameters and reduces epididymal weight. These alterations worsen with prolonged exposure time and higher doses. Most studies evaluated the effects of concentrations > 1.1 mg L-1 of heavy metals on the epididymis rather than doses with relevant importance for human health risk. This meta-analytical study faced limitations regarding a deeper analysis of epididymis physiology. Hence, several recommendations for future investigations are provided. This review creates a baseline for the comprehension of epididymal toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Machado-Neves
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Av. P.H. Rolfs, s/n, DBG, Campus Universitário, Viçosa, 36570-900, Minas Gerais, Brasil.
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Schimming BC, Martins LL, de Oliveira FS, Pinheiro PFF, Domeniconi RF. Morphology and immunolocalization of aquaporins 1 and 9 in the agouti ( Dasyprocta azarae) testis excurrent ducts. Anim Reprod 2021; 18:e20210070. [PMID: 34840612 PMCID: PMC8607849 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2021-0070] [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: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the morphology and immunoexpression of aquaporins (AQPs) 1 and 9 in the rete testis, efferent ducts, epididymis, and vas deferens in the Azara's agouti (Dasyprocta azarae). For this purpose, ten adult sexually mature animals were used in histologic and immunohistochemical analyses. The Azara's agouti rete testis was labyrinthine and lined with simple cubic epithelium. Ciliated and non-ciliated cells were observed in the epithelium of the efferent ducts. The epididymal cellular population was composed of principal, basal, apical, clear, narrow, and halo cells. The epithelium lining of vas deferens was composed of the principal and basal cells. AQPs 1 and 9 were not expressed in the rete testis. Positive reaction to AQP1 was observed at the luminal border of non-ciliated cells of the efferent ducts, and in the peritubular stroma and blood vessels in the epididymis, and vas deferens. AQP9 was immunolocalized in the epithelial cells in the efferent ducts, epididymis and vas deferens. The morphology of Azara's agouti testis excurrent ducts is similar to that reported for other rodents such as Cuniculus paca. The immunolocalization results of the AQPs suggest that the expression of AQPs is species-specific due to differences in localization and expression when compared to studies in other mammals species. The knowledge about the expression of AQPs in Azara's agouti testis excurrent ducts is essential to support future reproductive studies on this animal, since previous studies show that AQPs may be biomarkers of male fertility and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Cesar Schimming
- Departamento de Anatomia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Leandro Luis Martins
- Departamento de Anatomia, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brasil
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Kim SW, Kim B. Vacuolar H(+)-ATPase is not restricted to clear cells of the epididymal epithelium in cattle. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2021; 63:262-271. [PMID: 33987602 PMCID: PMC8071741 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2021.e32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Communication among epididymal epithelial cells creates the best luminal
condition where spermatozoa mature, transport and are stored. Vacuolar ATPase
(V-ATPase) and cytokeratin 5 (KRT5) have been used as signal indicators for
clear and basal cells of the epididymal epithelium, respectively, in mice, rats,
bats, and pigs; however, these two markers have not yet been described in the
epididymis of bulls. Here, we examined the presence and distribution of the B1
subunit of V-ATPase (B1-VATPase) and KRT5 in the distinct regions of adult
bovine epididymides, specifically, the caput, corpus, and cauda.
Immunofluorescence staining and confocal microscopy showed that narrow
shaped-clear cells were placed in the caput and corpus regions of the bovine
epididymis; however, they were absent in the cauda epididymis. In addition,
B1-VATPase was highly expressed in the cauda spermatozoa; however, it was rarely
detected in the caput spermatozoa. On the other hand, KRT5-positive cells, basal
cells, were maintained beneath the basal lamina and they had the traditional
form with a dome-shaped morphology from the caput to cauda region of the bovine
epididymis. The co-expression of B1-VATPase and KRT5 was confined to basal cells
placed in the basal region of the epithelium. In summary, 1) clear cells were
present with region-specific localization, 2) B1-VATPase was present in the
corpus and cauda spermatozoa but absent in the caput, 3) co-expressed cells with
B1-VATPase and KRT5 were present in the adult bovine epididymis, and 4)
B1-VATPase was not a specific marker for clear cells in the bovine epididymis.
Therefore, the perfect epididymal luminal condition created by the specific
expression and localization patterns of B1-VATPase might be necessary to obtain
fertilizing capacity of spermatozoa in the bovine epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Woo Kim
- Animal Genetic Resource Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science, Hamyang 50000, Korea
| | - Bongki Kim
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan 32439, Korea
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Chang YC, Yu JF, Wang TE, Chin SC, Wei YS, Chen TY, Tsai PS. Investigation of epididymal proteins and general sperm membrane characteristics of Formosan pangolin (Manis pentadactyla pentadactyla). BMC ZOOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s40850-020-00064-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Formosan Pangolin (Manis pentadactyla pentadactyla) is one of the three subspecies of Chinese pangolins, it is also an isolated sub-species naturally habitat in Taiwan. Despite earlier report on successful breeding of Sunda (Manis javanica) pangolin, breeding of Formosan pangolins in zoo captive populations is still challenging due to unknown reproductive characterizations of this species in both male and female populations.
Results
We characterized for the first time, reproductive tract of male Formosan pangolin. We showed pangolin epididymis was a collagen-enriched organ with apparent segmented sub-regions similar to other mammals. However, unlike most mammals exhibited two V-ATPase subunits, Formosan pangolin exhibited only V-ATPase subunit 2. This specific V-ATPase subunit extended its cellular localization throughout the cytoplasm of epididymal clear cells, suggesting pH regulation of luminal microenvironment might be different from other mammals. Electron micrographs showed rod-shaped pangolin sperm cells with multi-lamellar membrane structure at the sperm head. Similar to well-defined capacitation and acrosome reaction membrane changes in other mammals, we reported three distinct patterns (homogenous, punctuated and faded) of pangolin sperm head membrane changes. The concurrent increase in phosphotyrosine protein expression detected at the sperm mid-piece/tail and the emergence of punctuated membrane aggregates likely representing three sperm activation stages, namely inactivated, capacitated and acrosome reacted status of pangolin sperm.
Conclusion
By revealing unique epididymal V-ATPase distribution and sperm membrane dynamics in Formosan pangolin, we would understand better the fundamental aspects of reproduction parameters of Formosan pangolin.
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Jeong YD, Park YJ, Ko YG, Lee SS, Lee SH, Lee J, Kim KW, Kim SW, Kim B. Development and Differentiation of Epididymal Epithelial Cells in Korean Native Black Goat. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10081273. [PMID: 32722459 PMCID: PMC7459902 DOI: 10.3390/ani10081273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Studies have revealed that the communication networks among epididymal epithelial cells play an essential role in sperm maturation and storage. Therefore, the localization and expression of V-ATPase and cytokeratin 5 in the clear cells and basal cells, respectively, of immature and mature goat epididymis was investigated. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to use immunofluorescence labeling and confocal imaging to characterize the differentiation of clear cells and basal cells in the goat epididymis. The findings could help the understanding of the regulatory mechanism that creates an optimal luminal environment for sperm maturation and storage in the epididymis. Abstract The acidic luminal environment of the epididymis is regulated by the communication networks among epididymal epithelial cells; it is necessary for sperm maturation and storage. To characterize epididymal epithelial cell differentiation, the localization and expression of hydrogen-pumping vacuolar ATPase (V-ATPase) and cytokeratin 5 (KRT5) in the clear and basal cells, respectively, of immature and mature goat epididymis and vas deferens was examined. The epididymides and vas deferens were obtained from goats aged 1, 2, and 12–14 months. To assess the localization and expression patterns of V-ATPase and KRT5 in the caput, corpus, and cauda of the epididymis and proximal vas deferens, the tissue sections were subjected to immunofluorescence labeling and observed by confocal microscopy. Both clear and basal cells progressively started to differentiate in a retrograde manner. Clear cells disappeared from the cauda region after puberty, and they were maintained only in the caput and corpus regions of the adult goat epididymis. V-ATPase and KRT5 were co-expressed in the differentiated cells located at the base of the epithelium (i.e., basal cells). This cell type-specific differentiation and distribution of the epithelial cells plays a critical role in establishing a unique luminal environment for sperm maturation and storage in the goat epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Da Jeong
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan 32439, Korea; (Y.-D.J.); (Y.-J.P.)
| | - Yun-Jae Park
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan 32439, Korea; (Y.-D.J.); (Y.-J.P.)
| | - Yeoung-Gyu Ko
- Animal Genetic Resource Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science, RDA, Hamyang 50000, Korea; (Y.-G.K.); (S.-S.L.); (S.-H.L.); (J.L.); (K.-W.K.)
| | - Sung-Soo Lee
- Animal Genetic Resource Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science, RDA, Hamyang 50000, Korea; (Y.-G.K.); (S.-S.L.); (S.-H.L.); (J.L.); (K.-W.K.)
| | - Sang-Hoon Lee
- Animal Genetic Resource Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science, RDA, Hamyang 50000, Korea; (Y.-G.K.); (S.-S.L.); (S.-H.L.); (J.L.); (K.-W.K.)
| | - Jinwook Lee
- Animal Genetic Resource Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science, RDA, Hamyang 50000, Korea; (Y.-G.K.); (S.-S.L.); (S.-H.L.); (J.L.); (K.-W.K.)
| | - Kwan-Woo Kim
- Animal Genetic Resource Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science, RDA, Hamyang 50000, Korea; (Y.-G.K.); (S.-S.L.); (S.-H.L.); (J.L.); (K.-W.K.)
| | - Sung Woo Kim
- Animal Genetic Resource Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science, RDA, Hamyang 50000, Korea; (Y.-G.K.); (S.-S.L.); (S.-H.L.); (J.L.); (K.-W.K.)
- Correspondence: (S.W.K.); (B.K.); Tel.: +82-41-330-1246 (S.W.K. & B.K.); Fax: +82-41-330-1249 (S.W.K. & B.K.)
| | - Bongki Kim
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan 32439, Korea; (Y.-D.J.); (Y.-J.P.)
- Correspondence: (S.W.K.); (B.K.); Tel.: +82-41-330-1246 (S.W.K. & B.K.); Fax: +82-41-330-1249 (S.W.K. & B.K.)
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Castro MM, Kim B, Games PD, Hill E, Neves CA, Serrão JE, Breton S, Machado-Neves M. Distribution pattern of ZO-1 and claudins in the epididymis of vampire bats. Tissue Barriers 2020; 8:1779526. [PMID: 32552339 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2020.1779526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial cells connect with each other by tight junctions (TJs) in several tissues. In epididymides, TJs proteins form the blood-epididymis barrier (BEB), which is crucial for male fertility. However, little is known about BEB morphological and physiological aspects in wild animals. This study examines the region-specific distribution pattern of TJs proteins in D. rotundus' epididymis, assessing their regulation in rainy and dry season. The expression of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), and claudins (Cldn)-1, -3, and -4 were evaluated by confocal immunofluorescence and ELISA analysis. Herein, ZO-1 was strictly expressed in TJs, whereas Cldns were expressed in TJs and basolateral membranes of epithelial cells. Their co-localization and intensity of expression varied in the epididymal regions examined. The effect of season on protein expression was detected mainly in TJ proteins located in the proximal regions. As such, in the initial segment (IS), Cldn-3 and -4 were detected at low levels in basolateral membranes in the rainy season compared to the dry season. Furthermore, in the distal IS, Cldn-1 expression was lower in TJs of epithelial cells during the rainy season than the dry season. ZO-1 expression was higher in the cauda region than the corpus region by ELISA analysis. Additionally, in the corpus region, ZO-1 expression was higher in TJs during dry season compared to the rainy season. Our study sheds light on the understanding of BEB in D. rotundus, improving the knowledge of their reproductive biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana M Castro
- Departmento De Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal De Viçosa , Viçosa, Brasil
| | - Bongki Kim
- Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School , Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University , Yesan, Republic of Korea
| | - Patrícia D Games
- Departmento De Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal De Viçosa , Viçosa, Brasil
| | - Eric Hill
- Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School , Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - José Eduardo Serrão
- Departmento De Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal De Viçosa , Viçosa, Brasil
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School , Boston, MA, USA
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12
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Park YJ, Kim JH, Kim HY, Park HB, Choe J, Kim GW, Baek SY, Chung HJ, Park YJ, Kim B. The expression and localization of V-ATPase and cytokeratin 5 during postnatal development of the pig epididymis. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2019; 33:1077-1086. [PMID: 32054197 PMCID: PMC7322665 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.19.0587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Objective We examined the localization and expression of H+ pumping vacuolar ATPase (V-ATPase) and cytokeratin 5 (KRT5) in the epididymis of pigs, expressed in clear and basal cells, respectively, during postnatal development. Methods Epididymides were obtained from pigs at 1, 7, 21, 60, 120, and 180 days of age; we observed the localization and expression patterns of V-ATPase and KRT5 in the different regions of these organs, namely, the caput, corpus, and cauda. The differentiation of epididymal epithelial cells was determined by immunofluorescence labeling using cell-type-specific markers and observed using confocal microscopy. Results At postnatal day 5 (PND5), the localization of clear cells commenced migration from the cauda toward the caput. Although at PND120, goblet-shaped clear cells were detected along the entire length of the epididymis, those labeled for V-ATPase had disappeared from the corpus to cauda and were maintained only in the caput epididymis in adult pigs. In contrast, whereas basal cells labeled for KRT5 were only present in the vas deferens at birth, they were detected in all regions of the epididymis at PND60. These cells were localized at the base of the epithelium; however, no basal cells characterized by luminally extending cell projections were observed in any of the adult epididymides examined. Conclusion The differentiation of clear and basal cells progressively initiates in a retrograde manner from the cauda to the caput epididymis. The cell-type-specific distribution and localization of the epithelial cells play important roles in establishing a unique luminal environment for sperm maturation and storage in the pig epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Jae Park
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan 32439, Korea
| | - Ji-Hyuk Kim
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan 32439, Korea
| | - Hack-Youn Kim
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan 32439, Korea
| | - Hee-Bok Park
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan 32439, Korea
| | - Juhui Choe
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan 32439, Korea
| | - Gye-Woong Kim
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan 32439, Korea
| | - Sun-Young Baek
- Division of Swine Science, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Cheonan 31172, Korea
| | - Hak-Jae Chung
- Division of Swine Science, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Cheonan 31172, Korea
| | - Yoo-Jin Park
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong 17546, Korea
| | - Bongki Kim
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan 32439, Korea
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13
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Souza ACF, Santos FC, Bastos DSS, Sertorio MN, Teixeira JPG, Fernandes KM, Machado-Neves M. Reproductive functions in Desmodus rotundus: A comparison between seasons in a morphological context. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0205023. [PMID: 30332444 PMCID: PMC6192620 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0205023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive seasonality in Neotropical bats has been assessed to the better understand their reproductive behavior. This knowledge is especially important for the control of Desmodus rotundus population as it is a transmitter of rabies virus. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the functional activity of testis and epididymis of D. rotundus in dry and rainy seasons under a morphological approach. We observed an increase in tubular diameter and epithelial height of the seminiferous tubules during the rainy season. In the latter, additionally, stereological analysis of the testis showed increased proportion of seminiferous epithelium and reduced percentage of lumen. The sperm number in caput/corpus epididymis increased in rainy season, whereas sperm count and transit time were reduced in cauda region. These alterations were probably related to the recovery of epithelium activities after mating season in dry season. Despite altered nuclear and cytoplasm parameters of Leydig cells between seasons, the volume and number of these cells were constant. Moreover, no change in serum testosterone levels, daily sperm production, and apoptotic index were observed, which indicates that the reproductive pattern in D. rotundus does not change between seasons. Our study offers a baseline for the management of vampire bat population as an attempt to control rabies disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cláudia Ferreira Souza
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Felipe Couto Santos
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Kenner Morais Fernandes
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Department of Entomology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Mariana Machado-Neves
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Menezes TP, Hill E, de Alencar Moura A, Lobo MDP, Monteiro-Moreira ACO, Breton S, Machado-Neves M. Pattern of protein expression in the epididymis of Oligoryzomys nigripes (Cricetidae, Sigmodontinae). Cell Tissue Res 2017; 372:135-147. [PMID: 29119327 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2714-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In the epididymis, epithelial cells work in a concerted manner to create a luminal environment for sperm maturation, transport, and storage. However, the cell functions may be affected by anthropogenic factors, causing negative impacts on male fertility. In our study, we describe the pattern of protein expression in the epithelium and luminal fluid from epididymis of Oligoryzomys nigripes, a South American sigmodontine rodent whose reproductive biology has been little studied. Nine animals were captured from a preserved area of Atlantic Forest, where the exposure to anthropogenic influences is minimal. Epididymides were processed for histological analysis under light and epifluorescence microscopy, in which we used cell-specific markers aquaporin 9 (AQP9), vacuolar H+-ATPase (V-ATPase), and cytokeratin 5 (KRT5). Other samples were assessed for protein expression using shotgun proteomics. Similar to laboratory rodents, principal cells expressed AQP9 in their stereocilia. Basal cells, identified by KRT5 labeling, presented lateral body projections and a few axiopodia going toward the lumen. Clear cells expressed V-ATPase in their sub-apical vesicles and microplicae, and showed different shapes along the duct. Shotgun proteomics detected 51 proteins from epididymal supernatant. Most of them have been previously described in other species, indicating that they are well conserved. Twenty-three proteins detected in O. nigripes have not been described in epididymis from other South American sigmodontine rodents, confirming that the secretion pattern is species-specific. Our findings in O. nigripes from a protected area may help to create a baseline for studies investigating the effects of anthropogenic factors on functionality of the epididymal epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Prata Menezes
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, 36570-900, Brazil
| | - Eric Hill
- Center for Systems Biology/Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.,Micro Video Instruments, Inc, Avon, MA, 02322, USA
| | | | - Marina D P Lobo
- Laboratory of Proteomics, School of Pharmacy, University of Fortaleza, Ceará, CE, 60811-905, Brazil
| | | | - Sylvie Breton
- Center for Systems Biology/Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Mariana Machado-Neves
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, 36570-900, Brazil.
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15
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Yeste M, Morató R, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Bonet S, Prieto-Martínez N. Aquaporins in the male reproductive tract and sperm: Functional implications and cryobiology. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52 Suppl 4:12-27. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Unit of Cell Biology; Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; Faculty of Sciences; University of Girona; Girona Spain
| | - R Morató
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Unit of Cell Biology; Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; Faculty of Sciences; University of Girona; Girona Spain
- Unit of Animal Reproduction; Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - JE Rodríguez-Gil
- Unit of Animal Reproduction; Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - S Bonet
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Unit of Cell Biology; Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; Faculty of Sciences; University of Girona; Girona Spain
| | - N Prieto-Martínez
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Unit of Cell Biology; Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; Faculty of Sciences; University of Girona; Girona Spain
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16
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Castro MMD, Gonçalves WG, Teixeira SAMV, Fialho MDCQ, Santos FC, Oliveira JM, Serrão JE, Machado-Neves M. Ultrastructure and morphometric features of epididymal epithelium in Desmodus rotundus. Micron 2017; 102:35-43. [PMID: 28869875 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2017.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The blood-feeding behavior of Desmodus rotundus made this bat a potential vector of rabies virus and a public health issue. Consequently, the better understanding of its reproductive biology becomes valuable for the development of methods to control its population. In this study, we described morphological aspects of epithelial cells in D. rotundus' epididymis using light and transmission electron microscopy methods. The duct compartment was the main component of initial segment (83%), caput (90%), corpus (88%) and cauda (80%) regions. The epithelium lining the duct presented a progressive decrease in its height from initial segment to cauda regions. Moreover, the morphology of each cell type was the same along the entire duct. Similarly to rodents, columnar-shaped principal cells were the most abundant cell type throughout the epididymis, followed by basal and clear cells. Differently in rat and mice, the frequency of clear cells did not increase in the epididymis cauda, whereas the proportion of principal and basal cells was greater in this region. Furthermore, D. rotundus presented goblet-shaped clear cells with the nucleus located in the apical portion of the epididymal epithelium. This cellular portion also presented electron-lucid vesicles of different sizes that may correspond to vesicles enriched with proteins related to proton secretion. In addition to the findings regarding clear cells' structural organization, basal cells presented scarce cytoplasm and no axiopodia. Taken these findings together, we suggest that the mechanism of luminal acidification may have other pathways in D. rotundus than those described in rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Felipe Couto Santos
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-900, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Jerusa Maria Oliveira
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-900, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - José Eduardo Serrão
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-900, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Mariana Machado-Neves
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-900, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
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Schimming BC, Baumam CAE, Pinheiro PFF, de Matteis R, Domeniconi RF. Aquaporin 9 is expressed in the epididymis of immature and mature pigs. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52:617-624. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- BC Schimming
- Department of Anatomy; Institute of Biosciences; São Paulo State University (UNESP); Botucatu SP Brazil
| | - CAE Baumam
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science; São Paulo State University (UNESP); Botucatu SP Brazil
| | - PFF Pinheiro
- Department of Anatomy; Institute of Biosciences; São Paulo State University (UNESP); Botucatu SP Brazil
| | - R de Matteis
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science; São Paulo State University (UNESP); Botucatu SP Brazil
| | - RF Domeniconi
- Department of Anatomy; Institute of Biosciences; São Paulo State University (UNESP); Botucatu SP Brazil
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18
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Taatjes DJ, Roth J. In focus in HCB. Histochem Cell Biol 2016; 147:1-3. [PMID: 27900525 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-016-1517-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Douglas J Taatjes
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA.
| | - Jürgen Roth
- University of Zurich, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
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