1
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Zheng S, Jiang L, Qiu L. The effects of fine particulate matter on the blood-testis barrier and its potential mechanisms. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2024; 39:233-249. [PMID: 36863426 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2022-0204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
With the rapid expansion of industrial scale, an increasing number of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has bringing health concerns. Although exposure to PM2.5 has been clearly associated with male reproductive toxicity, the exact mechanisms are still unclear. Recent studies demonstrated that exposure to PM2.5 can disturb spermatogenesis through destroying the blood-testis barrier (BTB), consisting of different junction types, containing tight junctions (TJs), gap junctions (GJs), ectoplasmic specialization (ES) and desmosomes. The BTB is one of the tightest blood-tissue barriers among mammals, which isolating germ cells from hazardous substances and immune cell infiltration during spermatogenesis. Therefore, once the BTB is destroyed, hazardous substances and immune cells will enter seminiferous tubule and cause adversely reproductive effects. In addition, PM2.5 also has shown to cause cells and tissues injury via inducing autophagy, inflammation, sex hormones disorder, and oxidative stress. However, the exact mechanisms of the disruption of the BTB, induced by PM2.5, are still unclear. It is suggested that more research is required to identify the potential mechanisms. In this review, we aim to understand the adverse effects on the BTB after exposure to PM2.5 and explore its potential mechanisms, which provides novel insight into accounting for PM2.5-induced BTB injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaokai Zheng
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P. R. China
| | - Lianlian Jiang
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P. R. China
| | - Lianglin Qiu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P. R. China
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2
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Seify M, Abedpour N, Talebi SF, Hazari V, Mehrara M, Koohestanidehaghi Y, Shoorei H, Bhandari RK. Impacts of Acrylamide on testis and spermatozoa. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:739. [PMID: 38874886 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09677-1] [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: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Acrylamide (ACR) is an industrial chemical used to produce polyacrylamide, a synthetic polymer with a wide range of applications. Depending on the dosage, its presence in occupational and environmental sources poses potential health risks to humans and animals. ACR can be formed in starchy foods cooked at high temperatures. Its effects on human sperm are not well understood. Animal studies indicate that ACR induces toxicity in the male reproductive system through oxidative stress mechanisms. Exposure to ACR alters the normal structure of testicular tubules, leading to congestion, interstitial edema, degeneration of spermatogenic cells, formation of abnormal spermatid giant cells, and necrosis and apoptosis. It also disrupts the balance of important biomarkers such as malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione. ACR has a negative impact on mitochondrial function, antioxidant enzymes, ATP production, and sperm membrane integrity, resulting in decreased sperm quality. Furthermore, it interferes with the expression of steroidogenic genes associated with testosterone biosynthesis. This review explores the detrimental effects of ACR on sperm and testicular function and discusses the potential role of antioxidants in mitigating the adverse effects of ACR on male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Seify
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Neda Abedpour
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Azarbayjan E Gharbi, Urmia, Iran
| | | | - Vajihe Hazari
- Rooyesh Infertility Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Mehrara
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yeganeh Koohestanidehaghi
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Hamed Shoorei
- Rooyesh Infertility Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.
| | - Ramji Kumar Bhandari
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
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3
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Jiang J, Shu Z, Qiu L. Adverse effects and potential mechanisms of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) on the blood-testis barrier. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2024; 46:238. [PMID: 38849627 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-024-02033-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are defined as plastic particles or fragments with a diameter of less than 5 mm. These particles have been identified as causing male reproductive toxicity, although the precise mechanism behind this association is yet to be fully understood. Recent research has found that exposure to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) can disrupt spermatogenesis by impacting the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB), a formidable barrier within mammalian blood tissues. The BTB safeguards germ cells from harmful substances and infiltration by immune cells. However, the disruption of the BTB leads to the entry of environmental pollutants and immune cells into the seminiferous tubules, resulting in adverse reproductive effects. Additionally, PS-MPs induce reproductive damage by generating oxidative stress, inflammation, autophagy, and alterations in the composition of intestinal flora. Despite these findings, the precise mechanism by which PS-MPs disrupt the BTB remains inconclusive, necessitating further investigation into the underlying processes. This review aims to enhance our understanding of the pernicious effects of PS-MP exposure on the BTB and explore potential mechanisms to offer novel perspectives on BTB damage caused by PS-MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinchen Jiang
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd, Nantong, 226019, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenhao Shu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd, Nantong, 226019, People's Republic of China
| | - Lianglin Qiu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd, Nantong, 226019, People's Republic of China.
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4
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Ferraz FS, Dantas GDPF, Coimbra JLP, López JL, Lacerda SMSN, Dos Santos ML, Vieira CP, Lara NDLEM, Viana PIM, Ladeira LO, Guarnieri LO, Marçal EMA, Moraes MFD, Martins EMN, Andrade LM, Costa GMJ. Effects of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONS) testicular injection on Leydig cell function and sperm production in a murine model. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 126:108584. [PMID: 38561096 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108584] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
In the domain of medical advancement, nanotechnology plays a pivotal role, especially in the synthesis of biocompatible materials for therapeutic use. Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPIONs), known for their magnetic properties and low toxicity, stand at the forefront of this innovation. This study explored the reproductive toxicological effects of Sodium Citrate-functionalized SPIONs (Cit_SPIONs) in adult male mice, an area of research that holds significant potential yet remains largely unknown. Our findings reveal that Cit_SPIONs induce notable morphological changes in interstitial cells and the seminiferous epithelium when introduced via intratesticular injection. This observation is critical in understanding the interactions of nanomaterials within reproductive biological systems. A striking feature of this study is the rapid localization of Cit_SPIONs in Leydig cells post-injection, a factor that appears to be closely linked with the observed decrease in steroidogenic activity and testosterone levels. This data suggests a possible application in developing nanostructured therapies targeting androgen-related processes. Over 56 days, these nanoparticles exhibited remarkable biological distribution in testis parenchyma, infiltrating various cells within the tubular and intertubular compartments. While the duration of spermatogenesis remained unchanged, there were many Tunel-positive germ cells, a notable reduction in daily sperm production, and reduced progressive sperm motility in the treated group. These insights not only shed light on the intricate mechanisms of Cit_SPIONs interaction with the male reproductive system but also highlight the potential of nanotechnology in developing advanced biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fausto S Ferraz
- Department of Morphology, ICB, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Graziela de P F Dantas
- Department of Morphology, ICB, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - John L P Coimbra
- Department of Morphology, ICB, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Jorge L López
- Center for Biological and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Acre, Rio Branco, AC, Brazil
| | - Samyra M S N Lacerda
- Department of Morphology, ICB, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Mara L Dos Santos
- Department of Morphology, ICB, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Carolina P Vieira
- Department of Morphology, ICB, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Nathália de L E M Lara
- Department of Morphology, ICB, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Pedro I M Viana
- Department of Morphology, ICB, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Luiz O Ladeira
- Department of Physics, ICEX, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Leonardo O Guarnieri
- Magnetic Resonance Center (CTPMag) of the Department of Electrical Engineering at the Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Eduardo M A Marçal
- Magnetic Resonance Center (CTPMag) of the Department of Electrical Engineering at the Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Márcio F D Moraes
- Magnetic Resonance Center (CTPMag) of the Department of Electrical Engineering at the Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Estefânia M N Martins
- Nuclear Technology Development Center (CDTN), National Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Lídia M Andrade
- Department of Morphology, ICB, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; Department of Physics, ICEX, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Guilherme M J Costa
- Department of Morphology, ICB, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Nascimento BC, Ferreira CS, Oliveira SP, Pereira LAAC, Lopes GA, Nogueira JM, Paula RS, Jorge EC, Campos-Junior PHA. Naproxen administration affects murine late folliculogenesis, reduces granulosa cell proliferation and the number of ovulated oocytes. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 124:108527. [PMID: 38160782 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108527] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Naproxen reduces the production of prostaglandins via inhibition of the cyclooxygenase. Studies have shown that its administration in women can be related to failed ovulation. Therefore, preclinical investigations must be performed in order to investigate its effects in experimental models. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of naproxen on murine folliculogenesis, ovulation, and female fertility. Female C57BL/6 mice (n = 128 - 6 weeks old) were divided into Control, low (10 mg/kg), and high naproxen (50 mg/kg) groups, who were treated for 8 days and directed to morphofunctional analyses. Follicular quantification showed a reduced percentage of antral follicles in naproxen-treated animals. These treated animals also showed smaller oocytes included in secondary and antral follicles, and the diameter of secondary and antral follicles was also reduced. A reduction in the percentage of Ki67-positive granulosa cells was observed in treated animals that also showed down-regulation of Igf1r compared to control. After an ovarian stimulation protocol, naproxen-treated animals showed a reduction in the percentage of secondary and antral follicles, a reduced number of ovulated oocytes and, corpora lutea, and an increased number of failed ovulations. Finally, naproxen-treated animals also showed a reduction in mating index and pregnancy rate. Our findings suggested that, in mice, naproxen administration (eight days treatment) negatively affects molecular and morphological aspects related to late folliculogenesis, ovulation, and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo Camara Nascimento
- Laboratory for Reproductive Biology Research, Department of Natural Sciences, Federal University of São João del Rei, São João Del-Rei, MG, Brazil
| | - Camila Stefane Ferreira
- Laboratory for Reproductive Biology Research, Department of Natural Sciences, Federal University of São João del Rei, São João Del-Rei, MG, Brazil
| | - Stella Pollyanne Oliveira
- Laboratory for Reproductive Biology Research, Department of Natural Sciences, Federal University of São João del Rei, São João Del-Rei, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Guilherme Antonio Lopes
- Laboratory for Reproductive Biology Research, Department of Natural Sciences, Federal University of São João del Rei, São João Del-Rei, MG, Brazil
| | - Júlia Meireles Nogueira
- Departament of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Rayan Silva Paula
- Departament of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Erika Cristina Jorge
- Departament of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Paulo Henrique Almeida Campos-Junior
- Laboratory for Reproductive Biology Research, Department of Natural Sciences, Federal University of São João del Rei, São João Del-Rei, MG, Brazil.
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Sheng W, Xu W, Ding J, Lu B, Liu L, He Q, Zhou Q. Guijiajiao (Colla Carapacis et Plastri, CCP) prevents male infertility via gut microbiota modulation. Chin J Nat Med 2023; 21:403-410. [PMID: 37407171 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(23)60471-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility is a significant cause of psychosocial and marital distress in approximately 50% of couples who are unable to conceive, with male factors being the underlying cause. Guijiajiao (Colla Carapacis et Plastri, CCP) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine commonly used to treat male infertility. The present study aimed to investigate the potential mechanisms underlying the preventive effects of CCP on male infertility. An infertile male rat model was established using cyclophosphamide (CTX), and CCP was administered for both treatment and prevention. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was also performed to explore the role of gut microbiota in the CCP-mediated prevention of male infertility in rats. Sperm motility and concentration were determined using a semi-automatic sperm classification analyzer. Subsequently, histopathological analysis using HE staining was performed to examine the changes in the small intestine and testis. Moreover, the serum levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and testosterone were measured by ELISA. In addition, immunohistochemistry was conducted to detect CD3 expression in the small intestine, while RT-qPCR was employed to assess the expressions of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), cluster of differentiation 3 (CD3), Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL-10) in the small intestine and epididymis. Finally, gut microbiota was analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing. CCP improved sperm motility, number, and concentration in CTX-induced infertile male rats. CCP increased the serum testosterone level, inhibited the immune cell infiltration of the intestinal lamina propria, and promoted the aggregation of CD3+ T cells in CTX-induced male infertility rats. CCP also inhibited the expressions of MCP-1, CXCL-10, and IL-1β in the epididymis of male infertility rats. At the genus level, CTX led to a reduction in the abundance of Lactobacillus, Clostridia_UCG.014, and Romboutsia in the intestinal tract of rats. In contrast, CCP decreased the abundance of Ruminococcus and increased the abundance of Romboutsia in infertile male rats. Additionally, FMT experiments proved that the gut microbiota of CCP-treated rats facilitated testicular tissue recovery and spermatogenesis while also reducing the serum LPS level in infertile male rats. CCP improves the spermatogenic ability of infertile male rats by restoring gut microbiota diversity and inhibiting epididymal inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Sheng
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000, China; Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000, China.
| | - Wenjing Xu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000, China.
| | - Jin Ding
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000, China; Department of Andrology, Affiliated Bao'an Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Seventh Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen 518000; College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000
| | - Baowei Lu
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000, China; College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000
| | - Lumei Liu
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000, China; College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000
| | - Qinghu He
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000, China; College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine, Changsha 410000.
| | - Qing Zhou
- Department of Andrology, The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000.
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7
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Gu X, Heinrich A, Li SY, DeFalco T. Testicular macrophages are recruited during a narrow fetal time window and promote organ-specific developmental functions. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1439. [PMID: 36922518 PMCID: PMC10017703 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37199-0] [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: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
A growing body of evidence demonstrates that fetal-derived tissue-resident macrophages have developmental functions. It has been proposed that macrophages promote testicular functions, but which macrophage populations are involved is unclear. Previous studies showed that macrophages play critical roles in fetal testis morphogenesis and described two adult testicular macrophage populations, interstitial and peritubular. There has been debate regarding the hematopoietic origins of testicular macrophages and whether distinct macrophage populations promote specific testicular functions. Here our hematopoietic lineage-tracing studies in mice show that yolk-sac-derived macrophages comprise the earliest testicular macrophages, while fetal hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) generate monocytes that colonize the gonad during a narrow time window in a Sertoli-cell-dependent manner and differentiate into adult testicular macrophages. Finally, we show that yolk-sac-derived versus HSC-derived macrophages have distinct functions during testis morphogenesis, while interstitial macrophages specifically promote adult Leydig cell steroidogenesis. Our findings provide insight into testicular macrophage origins and their tissue-specific roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Gu
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Anna Heinrich
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Shu-Yun Li
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Tony DeFalco
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA.
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8
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Zhao T, Shen L, Ye X, Bai G, Liao C, Chen Z, Peng T, Li X, Kang X, An G. Prenatal and postnatal exposure to polystyrene microplastics induces testis developmental disorder and affects male fertility in mice. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 445:130544. [PMID: 36493639 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) can threaten human health, especially male fertility. However, most existing studies have focused on the adulthood stage of male reproduction toxicity caused by relatively short-term PS-MP exposure. This study aimed to investigate the toxic effect of PS-MPs on testicular development and reproductive function upon prenatal and postnatal exposure. Pregnant mice and their offspring were exposed to 0, 0.5 mg/L, 5 mg/L, and 50 mg/L PS-MPs through their daily drinking water from gestational day 1 to postnatal day (PND) 35 or PND70. We found that PS-MP exposure induced testis development disorder by PND35 and spermatogenesis dysfunction by PND70. By combining RNA sequencing results and bioinformatics analysis, the hormone-mediated signaling pathway, G1/S transition of the mitotic cell cycle, coregulation of androgen receptor activity, and Hippo signaling pathway were shown to be involved in testis development on PND35. The meiotic cell cycle, regulation of the immune effector process, neutrophil degranulation, and inflammation mediated by chemokine and cytokine signaling pathways were associated with disturbed spermatogenesis on PND70. These findings show that prenatal and postnatal exposure to PS-MPs resulted in testis development disorder and male subfertility, which may be regulated by the Hippo signaling pathway and involve an immune reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianxin Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Department of Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lianju Shen
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gaochen Bai
- Department of Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chen Liao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhicong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tianwen Peng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaomin Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangjin Kang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Geng An
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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9
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Tang XJ, Xiao QH, Wang XL, He Y, Tian YN, Xia BT, Guo Y, Huang JL, Duan P, Tan Y. Single-Cell Transcriptomics-Based Study of Transcriptional Regulatory Features in the Non-Obstructive Azoospermia Testis. Front Genet 2022; 13:875762. [PMID: 35669193 PMCID: PMC9163961 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.875762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is one of the most important causes of male infertility. Although many congenital factors have been identified, the aetiology in the majority of idiopathic NOA (iNOA) cases remains unknown. Herein, using single-cell RNA-Seq data sets (GSE149512) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, we constructed transcriptional regulatory networks (TRNs) to explain the mutual regulatory relationship and the causal relationship between transcription factors (TFs). We defined 10 testicular cell types by their marker genes and found that the proportion of Leydig cells (LCs) and macrophages (tMΦ) was significantly increased in iNOA testis. We identified specific TFs including LHX9, KLF8, KLF4, ARID5B and RXRG in iNOA LCs. In addition, we found specific TFs in iNOA tMΦ such as POU2F2, SPIB IRF5, CEBPA, ELK4 and KLF6. All these identified TFs are strongly engaged in cellular fate, function and homeostasis of the microenvironment. Changes in the activity of the above-mentioned TFs might affect the function of LCs and tMΦ and ultimately cause spermatogenesis failure. This study illustrate that these TFs play important regulatory roles in the occurrence and development of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-juan Tang
- Department of Andrology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Qiao-hong Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Xue-lin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Yan He
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
- Postgraduate Training Basement of Jinzhou Medicical University, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Ya-nan Tian
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
- Postgraduate Training Basement of Jinzhou Medicical University, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Bin-tong Xia
- Department of Urology Surgery, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Yang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Jiao-long Huang
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Peng Duan
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Yan Tan
- Department of Andrology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Biomedical Engineering College, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
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Gonçalves MFF, Lacerda SMDSN, Lara NDLEM, Oliveira CFAD, Figueiredo AFA, Brener MRG, Cavalcante MA, Santos AK, Campolina-Silva GH, Costa VV, Santana ACC, Lopes RA, Szawka RE, Costa GMJ. GATA-1 mutation alters the spermatogonial phase and steroidogenesis in adult mouse testis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 542:111519. [PMID: 34843900 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111519] [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] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
GATA-1 is a transcription factor from the GATA family, which features zinc fingers for DNA binding. This protein was initially identified as a crucial regulator of blood cell differentiation, but it is currently known that the Gata-1 gene expression is not limited to this system. Although the testis is also a site of significant GATA-1 expression, its role in testicular cells remains considerably unexplored. In the present study, we evaluated the testicular morphophysiology of adult ΔdblGATA mice with a mutation in the GATA-1 protein. Regarding testicular histology, GATA-1 mutant mice exhibited few changes in the seminiferous tubules, particularly in germ cells. A high proportion of differentiated spermatogonia, an increased number of apoptotic pre-leptotene spermatocytes (Caspase-3-positive), and a high frequency of sperm head defects were observed in ΔdblGATA mice. The main differences were observed in the intertubular compartment, as ΔdblGATA mice showed several morphofunctional changes in Leydig cells. Reduced volume, increased number and down-regulation of steroidogenic enzymes were observed in ΔdblGATA Leydig cells. Moreover, the mutant animal showed lower serum testosterone concentration and high LH levels. These results are consistent with the phenotypic and biometric data of mutant mice, i.e., shorter anogenital index and reduced accessory sexual gland weight. In conclusion, our findings suggest that GATA-1 protein is an important factor for germ cell differentiation as well as for the steroidogenic activity in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus Felipe Fonseca Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Samyra Maria Dos Santos Nassif Lacerda
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Nathália de Lima E Martins Lara
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Carolina Felipe Alves de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - André Felipe Almeida Figueiredo
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Marcos Rocha Gouvêa Brener
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Marina Alcântara Cavalcante
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Anderson Kenedy Santos
- Laboratory of Cardiac Signaling, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Henrique Campolina-Silva
- Center for Research and Development of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Vivian Vasconcelos Costa
- Center for Research and Development of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Ana Clara Campideli Santana
- Laboratory of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Roberta Araújo Lopes
- Laboratory of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Raphael Escorsim Szawka
- Laboratory of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Mattos Jardim Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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