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Teves ME, Roldan ERS. Sperm bauplan and function and underlying processes of sperm formation and selection. Physiol Rev 2022; 102:7-60. [PMID: 33880962 PMCID: PMC8812575 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00009.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The spermatozoon is a highly differentiated and polarized cell, with two main structures: the head, containing a haploid nucleus and the acrosomal exocytotic granule, and the flagellum, which generates energy and propels the cell; both structures are connected by the neck. The sperm's main aim is to participate in fertilization, thus activating development. Despite this common bauplan and function, there is an enormous diversity in structure and performance of sperm cells. For example, mammalian spermatozoa may exhibit several head patterns and overall sperm lengths ranging from ∼30 to 350 µm. Mechanisms of transport in the female tract, preparation for fertilization, and recognition of and interaction with the oocyte also show considerable variation. There has been much interest in understanding the origin of this diversity, both in evolutionary terms and in relation to mechanisms underlying sperm differentiation in the testis. Here, relationships between sperm bauplan and function are examined at two levels: first, by analyzing the selective forces that drive changes in sperm structure and physiology to understand the adaptive values of this variation and impact on male reproductive success and second, by examining cellular and molecular mechanisms of sperm formation in the testis that may explain how differentiation can give rise to such a wide array of sperm forms and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eugenia Teves
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Eduardo R S Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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Li Y, Wang Y, Wen Y, Zhang T, Wang X, Jiang C, Zheng R, Zhou F, Chen D, Yang Y, Shen Y. Whole-exome sequencing of a cohort of infertile men reveals novel causative genes in teratozoospermia that are chiefly related to sperm head defects. Hum Reprod 2021; 37:152-177. [PMID: 34791246 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can whole-exome sequencing (WES) and in vitro validation studies identify new causative genes associated with teratozoospermia, particularly for sperm head defect? SUMMARY ANSWER We investigated a core group of infertile patients, including 82 cases with unexplained abnormal sperm head and 67 individuals with multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella (MMAF), and revealed rare and novel deleterious gene variants correlated with morphological abnormalities of the sperm head or tail defects. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Teratozoospermia is one of the most common factors causing male infertility. Owing to high phenotypic variability, currently known genetic causes of teratozoospermia can only explain a rather minor component for patients with anomalous sperm-head shapes, and the agents responsible for atypical sperm head shapes remain largely unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We executed WES analysis of a Chinese cohort of patients (N = 149) with teratozoospermia to identify novel genetic causes particularly for defective sperm head. We also sought to reveal the influence of different abnormalities of sperm morphology on ICSI outcome. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS In this study, a cohort of 149 infertile men (82 with abnormal sperm head and 67 with MMAF) were recruited. We implemented WES on infertile patients and analyzed the negative effects of the mutations of candidate genes on their protein conformations and/or expression. We also investigated the candidate genes' spatiotemporal expression/localization during spermatogenesis in both humans and mice, and explored their interactions with proteins that are known to be involved in sperm development. We also compared the ICSI outcomes of the affected individuals with various aberrations in sperm morphology. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We identified rare and deleterious variants of piwi like RNA-mediated gene silencing 4 (PIWIL4: 1/82 patients, 1.21%), coiled-coil and C2 domain containing 1B (CC2D1B: 1/82 patients, 1.21%), cyclin B3 (CCNB3: 1/82 patients, 1.21%), KIAA1210 (KIAA1210: 2/82 patients, 2.43%) and choline phosphotransferase 1 (CHPT1: 1/82 patients, 1.21%), which are novel correlates of morphological abnormalities of the sperm head; functional evidence supports roles for all of these genes in sperm head formation. The mutations of septin 12 (SEPTIN12: 2/82 patients, 2.43%) are suggested to be associated with acrosome defects. We additionally observed novel causative mutations of dynein axonemal heavy chain 2 (DNAH2: 1/67 patients, 1.49%), dynein axonemal heavy chain 10 (DNAH10: 1/67 patients, 1.49%) and dynein axonemal heavy chain 12 (DNAH12: 1/67 patients, 1.49%) in patients with MMAF, and revealed a significantly lower fertilization rate of the abnormal sperm-head group compared to the MMAF group following ICSI. Consequently, our study also suggests that the mutations of PIWIL4 and CC2D1B might be circumvented by ICSI to a degree, and that CHPT1 and KIAA1210 loss-of-function variants might be associated with failed ICSI treatment. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION In this study, we discovered the relationship between the genotype and phenotype of the novel causative genes of sperm head deformities in humans. However, the molecular mechanism of the relevant genes involved in sperm head development needs to be further illuminated in future research. Furthermore, evidence should be provided using knockout/knock-in mouse models for additional confirmation of the roles of these novel genes in spermatogenesis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This cohort study of 149 Chinese infertile men documents novel genetic factors involved in teratozoospermia, particularly in anomalous sperm head formation. For the first time, we suggest that SEPTIN12 is related to human acrosomal hypoplasia, and that CCNB3 is a novel causative gene for globozoospermia in humans. We also uncovered variants in two genes-KIAA1210 and CHPT1associated with acrosomal biogenesis in patients with small or absent acrosomes. Additionally, it is postulated that loss-of-function mutations of PIWIL4 and CC2D1B have a contribution to the abnormal sperm-head formation. Furthermore, we are first to demonstrate the influence of different sperm morphologies on ICSI outcomes and indicates that the abnormal sperm head may play a significant role in fertilization failure. Our findings therefore provide valuable information for the diagnosis of teratozoospermia, particularly with respect to abnormalities of the sperm head. This will allow clinicians to adopt the optimal treatment strategy and to develop personalized medicine directly targeting these effects. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was financed by the West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University (KS369 and KL042). The authors declare that they do not have any conflicts of interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqian Li
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SCU-CUHK), Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Reproduction Medical Center of West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuting Wen
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SCU-CUHK), Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Reproduction Medical Center of West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SCU-CUHK), Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chuan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SCU-CUHK), Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Rui Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SCU-CUHK), Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fan Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SCU-CUHK), Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Daijuan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SCU-CUHK), Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yihong Yang
- Reproduction Medical Center of West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Shen
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SCU-CUHK), Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Manfrevola F, Guillou F, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Chianese R. LINCking the Nuclear Envelope to Sperm Architecture. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12050658. [PMID: 33925685 PMCID: PMC8145172 DOI: 10.3390/genes12050658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear architecture undergoes an extensive remodeling during spermatogenesis, especially at levels of spermatocytes (SPC) and spermatids (SPT). Interestingly, typical events of spermiogenesis, such as nuclear elongation, acrosome biogenesis, and flagellum formation, need a functional cooperation between proteins of the nuclear envelope and acroplaxome/manchette structures. In addition, nuclear envelope plays a key role in chromosome distribution. In this scenario, special attention has been focused on the LINC (linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton) complex, a nuclear envelope-bridge structure involved in the connection of the nucleoskeleton to the cytoskeleton, governing mechanotransduction. It includes two integral proteins: KASH- and SUN-domain proteins, on the outer (ONM) and inner (INM) nuclear membrane, respectively. The LINC complex is involved in several functions fundamental to the correct development of sperm cells such as head formation and head to tail connection, and, therefore, it seems to be important in determining male fertility. This review provides a global overview of the main LINC complex components, with a special attention to their subcellular localization in sperm cells, their roles in the regulation of sperm morphological maturation, and, lastly, LINC complex alterations associated to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Manfrevola
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (F.M.); (S.F.); (R.P.)
| | - Florian Guillou
- PRC, CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, University of Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France;
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (F.M.); (S.F.); (R.P.)
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (F.M.); (S.F.); (R.P.)
| | - Rosanna Chianese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (F.M.); (S.F.); (R.P.)
- Correspondence:
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Shi J, Ma Y, Hua H, Liu Y, Li W, Yu H, Liu C. Dynamic Histone H3 Modifications Regulate Meiosis Initiation via Respiration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:646214. [PMID: 33869198 PMCID: PMC8047140 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.646214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Meiosis is essential for genetic stability and diversity during sexual reproduction in most eukaryotes. Chromatin structure and gene expression are drastically changed during meiosis, and various histone modifications have been reported to participate in this unique process. However, the dynamic of histone modifications during meiosis is still not well investigated. Here, by using multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) based LC-MS/MS, we detected dynamic changes of histone H3 lysine post-translational modifications (PTMs). We firstly quantified the precise percentage of H3 modifications on different lysine sites during mouse and yeast meiosis, and found H3 acetylation and methylation were dramatically changed. To further study the potential functions of H3 acetylation and methylation in meiosis, we performed histone H3 lysine mutant screening in yeast, and found that yeast strains lacking H3K18 acetylation (H3K18ac) failed to initiate meiosis due to insufficient IME1 expression. Further studies showed that the absence of H3K18ac impaired respiration, leading to the reduction of Rim101p, which further upregulated a negative regulator of IME1 transcription, Smp1p. Together, our studies reveal a novel meiosis initiation pathway mediated by histone H3 modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanjie Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences, Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, China
| | - Yujiao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongxiu Yu
- Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Teves ME, Roldan ERS, Krapf D, Strauss III JF, Bhagat V, Sapao P. Sperm Differentiation: The Role of Trafficking of Proteins. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3702. [PMID: 32456358 PMCID: PMC7279445 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm differentiation encompasses a complex sequence of morphological changes that takes place in the seminiferous epithelium. In this process, haploid round spermatids undergo substantial structural and functional alterations, resulting in highly polarized sperm. Hallmark changes during the differentiation process include the formation of new organelles, chromatin condensation and nuclear shaping, elimination of residual cytoplasm, and assembly of the sperm flagella. To achieve these transformations, spermatids have unique mechanisms for protein trafficking that operate in a coordinated fashion. Microtubules and filaments of actin are the main tracks used to facilitate the transport mechanisms, assisted by motor and non-motor proteins, for delivery of vesicular and non-vesicular cargos to specific sites. This review integrates recent findings regarding the role of protein trafficking in sperm differentiation. Although a complete characterization of the interactome of proteins involved in these temporal and spatial processes is not yet known, we propose a model based on the current literature as a framework for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E. Teves
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond VA 23298, USA;
| | - Eduardo R. S. Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), 28006-Madrid, Spain
| | - Diego Krapf
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
| | - Jerome F. Strauss III
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond VA 23298, USA;
| | - Virali Bhagat
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond VA 23298, USA;
| | - Paulene Sapao
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond VA, 23298, USA;
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Gumber HK, McKenna JF, Estrada AL, Tolmie AF, Graumann K, Bass HW. Identification and characterization of genes encoding the nuclear envelope LINC complex in the monocot species Zea mays. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs.221390. [PMID: 30659121 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.221390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The linker of nucleoskeleton to cytoskeleton (LINC) complex is an essential multi-protein structure spanning the nuclear envelope. It connects the cytoplasm to the nucleoplasm, functions to maintain nuclear shape and architecture and regulates chromosome dynamics during cell division. Knowledge of LINC complex composition and function in the plant kingdom is primarily limited to Arabidopsis, but critically missing from the evolutionarily distant monocots, which include grasses, the most important agronomic crops worldwide. To fill this knowledge gap, we identified and characterized 22 maize genes, including a new grass-specific KASH gene family. By using bioinformatic, biochemical and cell biological approaches, we provide evidence that representative KASH candidates localize to the nuclear periphery and interact with Zea mays (Zm)SUN2 in vivo FRAP experiments using domain deletion constructs verified that this SUN-KASH interaction was dependent on the SUN but not the coiled-coil domain of ZmSUN2. A summary working model is proposed for the entire maize LINC complex encoded by conserved and divergent gene families. These findings expand our knowledge of the plant nuclear envelope in a model grass species, with implications for both basic and applied cellular research.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hardeep K Gumber
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-4295, USA
| | - Joseph F McKenna
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP UK
| | - Amado L Estrada
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-4295, USA
| | - Andrea F Tolmie
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP UK
| | - Katja Graumann
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP UK
| | - Hank W Bass
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-4295, USA
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Avidor-Reiss T, Fishman EL. It takes two (centrioles) to tango. Reproduction 2019; 157:R33-R51. [PMID: 30496124 PMCID: PMC6494718 DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cells that divide during embryo development require precisely two centrioles during interphase and four centrioles during mitosis. This precise number is maintained by allowing each centriole to nucleate only one centriole per cell cycle (i.e. centriole duplication). Yet, how the first cell of the embryo, the zygote, obtains two centrioles has remained a mystery in most mammals and insects. The mystery arose because the female gamete (oocyte) is thought to have no functional centrioles and the male gamete (spermatozoon) is thought to have only one functional centriole, resulting in a zygote with a single centriole. However, recent studies in fruit flies, beetles and mammals, including humans, suggest an alternative explanation: spermatozoa have a typical centriole and an atypical centriole. The sperm typical centriole has a normal structure but distinct protein composition, whereas the sperm atypical centriole is distinct in both. During fertilization, the atypical centriole is released into the zygote, nucleates a new centriole and participates in spindle pole formation. Thus, the spermatozoa's atypical centriole acts as a second centriole in the zygote. Here, we review centriole biology in general and especially in reproduction, we describe the discovery of the spermatozoon atypical centriole, and we provide an updated model for centriole inherence during sexual reproduction. While we focus on humans and other non-rodent mammals, we also provide a broader evolutionary perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomer Avidor-Reiss
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toledo, 2801 W. Bancroft Rd., Wolfe Hall 4259, Toledo, OH 43606
| | - Emily L. Fishman
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toledo, 2801 W. Bancroft Rd., Wolfe Hall 4259, Toledo, OH 43606
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Pereira CD, Serrano JB, Martins F, da Cruz E Silva OAB, Rebelo S. Nuclear envelope dynamics during mammalian spermatogenesis: new insights on male fertility. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2019; 94:1195-1219. [PMID: 30701647 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The production of highly specialized spermatozoa from undifferentiated spermatogonia is a strictly organized and programmed process requiring extensive restructuring of the entire cell. One of the most remarkable cellular transformations accompanying the various phases of spermatogenesis is the profound remodelling of the nuclear architecture, in which the nuclear envelope (NE) seems to be crucially involved. In recent years, several proteins from the distinct layers forming the NE (i.e. the inner and outer nuclear membranes as well as the nuclear lamina) have been associated with meiosis and/or spermiogenesis in different mammalian species. Among these are A- and B-type lamins, Dpy-19-like protein 2 (DPY19L2), lamin B receptor (LBR), lamina-associated polypeptide 1 (LAP1), LAP2/emerin/MAN1 (LEM) domain-containing proteins, spermatogenesis-associated 46 (SPATA46) and diverse elements of the linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex, namely Sad-1/UNC-84 homology (SUN) and Klarsicht/ANC-1/Syne-1 homology (KASH) domain-containing proteins. Herein, we summarize the current state of the art on the cellular and subcellular distribution of NE proteins expressed during mammalian spermatogenesis, and discuss the latest research developments regarding their testis-specific functions. This review provides a comprehensive and innovative overview of the NE network as a regulatory platform and as an essential determinant of efficient meiotic chromosome recombination as well as spermiogenesis-associated nuclear remodelling and differentiation in mammalian male germline cells. Thus, this review provides important novel insights on the biological relevance of NE proteins for male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cátia D Pereira
- Department of Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Signalling Laboratory, Institute for Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana B Serrano
- Department of Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Signalling Laboratory, Institute for Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Filipa Martins
- Department of Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Signalling Laboratory, Institute for Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Odete A B da Cruz E Silva
- Department of Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Signalling Laboratory, Institute for Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.,The Discovery CTR, University of Aveiro Campus, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sandra Rebelo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Signalling Laboratory, Institute for Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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Kaneko T, Minohara T, Shima S, Yoshida K, Fukuda A, Iwamori N, Inai T, Iida H. A membrane protein, TMCO5A, has a close relationship with manchette microtubules in rat spermatids during spermiogenesis. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:330-341. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Takane Kaneko
- Laboratory of Zoology; Graduate School of Agriculture; Kyushu University; Fukuoka Japan
| | - Taisuke Minohara
- Laboratory of Zoology; Graduate School of Agriculture; Kyushu University; Fukuoka Japan
| | - Sakurako Shima
- Laboratory of Zoology; Graduate School of Agriculture; Kyushu University; Fukuoka Japan
| | - Kaori Yoshida
- Laboratory of Zoology; Graduate School of Agriculture; Kyushu University; Fukuoka Japan
| | - Atsuko Fukuda
- Laboratory of Zoology; Graduate School of Agriculture; Kyushu University; Fukuoka Japan
| | - Naoki Iwamori
- Laboratory of Zoology; Graduate School of Agriculture; Kyushu University; Fukuoka Japan
| | - Tetsuichiro Inai
- Department of Morphological Biology; Fukuoka Dental College; Fukuoka Japan
| | - Hiroshi Iida
- Laboratory of Zoology; Graduate School of Agriculture; Kyushu University; Fukuoka Japan
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Altered three-dimensional organization of sperm genome in DPY19L2-deficient globozoospermic patients. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 36:69-77. [PMID: 30362053 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1342-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the three-dimensional (3D) organization of sperm genome in DPY19L2-deficient globozoospermic patients speculating a link between DPY19L2 and genome organization of sperm nucleus. METHODS This is a study of chromatin organization in DPY19L2-deficient globozoospermic patients and healthy donors using three-dimensional fluorescence in situ hybridization (3D-FISH) combined with confocal laser scanning microscopy followed by 3D image analysis. The 3D structures of sperm nuclei, chromocenter, telomeric regions and chromosome territories (CTs), were reconstructed using IMARIS software, and the relative radial position for each individual signal was calculated. Statistical analysis used a non-parametric Mann-Whitney test was appropriate with significance at p < 0.05. RESULTS DPY19L2-deficient globozoospermic patients display impaired sperm chromocenter organization resulting in an increased number of chromocenters (5.4 vs 3.5; p < 0.0001). Moreover, radial positions of telomeres are modified with a more central position in globozoospermic nuclei. 3D-FISH analysis of five chromosome territories (CTs) (X, Y, 7, 17, 18) showed that DPY19L2-deficient globozoospermic sperm nuclei display altered spatial organization of CT X, CT 7 and CT 18. CONCLUSIONS Our findings strengthen the hypothesis that DPY19L2 might be considered as a LINC-like protein having a crucial role in the organization of nuclear chromatin in sperm nucleus through its interaction with nuclear lamina. Our results might also explain defective embryonic development after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) performed with DPY19L2-deficient globozoospermic sperm.
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Protein oligomerization and mobility within the nuclear envelope evaluated by the time-shifted mean-segmented Q factor. Methods 2018; 157:28-41. [PMID: 30268407 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2018.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Analysis of fluorescence fluctuation experiments by the mean-segmented Q (MSQ) method was recently used to successfully characterize the oligomeric state and mobility of proteins within the nuclear envelope (NE) of living cells. However, two significant shortcomings of MSQ were recognized. Non-ideal detector behavior due to dead-time and afterpulsing as well as the lack of error analysis currently limit the potential of MSQ. This paper presents time-shifted MSQ (tsMSQ), a new formulation of MSQ that is robust with respect to dead-time and afterpulsing. In addition, a protocol for performing error analysis on tsMSQ data is introduced to assess the quality of fit models and estimate the uncertainties of fit parameters. Together, these developments significantly simplify and improve the analysis of fluorescence fluctuation data taken within the NE. To demonstrate these new developments, tsMSQ was used to characterize the oligomeric state and mobility of the luminal domains of two inner nuclear membrane SUN proteins. The results for the luminal domain of SUN2 obtained through tsMSQ without correction for non-ideal detector effects agree with a recent study that was conducted using the original MSQ formulation. Finally, tsMSQ was applied to characterize the oligomeric state and mobility of the luminal domain of the germline-restricted SUN3.
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12
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Zeng X, Li K, Yuan R, Gao H, Luo J, Liu F, Wu Y, Wu G, Yan X. Nuclear Envelope-Associated Chromosome Dynamics during Meiotic Prophase I. Front Cell Dev Biol 2018; 5:121. [PMID: 29376050 PMCID: PMC5767173 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2017.00121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromosome dynamics during meiotic prophase I are associated with a series of major events such as chromosomal reorganization and condensation, pairing/synapsis and recombination of the homologs, and chromosome movements at the nuclear envelope (NE). The NE is the barrier separating the nucleus from the cytoplasm and thus plays a central role in NE-associated chromosomal movements during meiosis. Previous studies have shown in various species that NE-linked chromosome dynamics are actually driven by the cytoskeleton. The linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complexes are important constituents of the NE that facilitate in the transfer of cytoskeletal forces across the NE to individual chromosomes. The LINCs consist of the inner and outer NE proteins Sad1/UNC-84 (SUN), and Klarsicht/Anc-1/Syne (KASH) domain proteins. Meiosis-specific adaptations of the LINC components and unique modifications of the NE are required during chromosomal movements. Nonetheless, the actual role of the NE in chromosomic dynamic movements in plants remains elusive. This review summarizes the findings of recent studies on meiosis-specific constituents and modifications of the NE and corresponding nucleoplasmic/cytoplasmic adaptors being involved in NE-associated movement of meiotic chromosomes, as well as describes the potential molecular network of transferring cytoplasm-derived forces into meiotic chromosomes in model organisms. It helps to gain a better understanding of the NE-associated meiotic chromosomal movements in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhua Zeng
- Oil Crops Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Oil Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Keqi Li
- Oil Crops Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Oil Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Rong Yuan
- Oil Crops Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Oil Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongfei Gao
- Oil Crops Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Oil Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Junling Luo
- Oil Crops Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Oil Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Oil Crops Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Oil Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuhua Wu
- Oil Crops Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Oil Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Gang Wu
- Oil Crops Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Oil Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaohong Yan
- Oil Crops Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Oil Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
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13
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Shang Y, Zhu F, Wang L, Ouyang YC, Dong MZ, Liu C, Zhao H, Cui X, Ma D, Zhang Z, Yang X, Guo Y, Liu F, Yuan L, Gao F, Guo X, Sun QY, Cao Y, Li W. Essential role for SUN5 in anchoring sperm head to the tail. eLife 2017; 6:28199. [PMID: 28945193 PMCID: PMC5634783 DOI: 10.7554/elife.28199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
SUN (Sad1 and UNC84 domain containing)-domain proteins are reported to reside on the nuclear membrane playing distinct roles in nuclear dynamics. SUN5 is a new member of the SUN family, with little knowledge regarding its function. Here, we generated Sun5−/− mice and found that male mice were infertile. Most Sun5-null spermatozoa displayed a globozoospermia-like phenotype but they were actually acephalic spermatozoa. Additional studies revealed that SUN5 was located in the neck of the spermatozoa, anchoring sperm head to the tail, and without functional SUN5 the sperm head to tail coupling apparatus was detached from nucleus during spermatid elongation. Finally, we found that healthy heterozygous offspring could be obtained via intracytoplasmic injection of Sun5-mutated sperm heads for both male mice and patients. Our studies reveal the essential role of SUN5 in anchoring sperm head to the tail and provide a promising way to treat this kind of acephalic spermatozoa-associated male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongliang Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fuxi Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Lina Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying-Chun Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ming-Zhe Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haichao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuhong Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dongyuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- Center of Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yueshuai Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Liu
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Li Yuan
- Savaid School of Medicine, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qing-Yuan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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14
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Zhu F, Wang F, Yang X, Zhang J, Wu H, Zhang Z, Zhang Z, He X, Zhou P, Wei Z, Gecz J, Cao Y. Biallelic SUN5 Mutations Cause Autosomal-Recessive Acephalic Spermatozoa Syndrome. Am J Hum Genet 2016; 99:942-949. [PMID: 27640305 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acephalic spermatozoa syndrome is a rare and severe form of teratozoospermia characterized by a predominance of headless spermatozoa in the ejaculate. Family clustering and consanguinity suggest a genetic origin; however, causative mutations have yet to be identified. We performed whole-exome sequencing in two unrelated infertile men and subsequent variant filtering identified one homozygous (c.824C>T [p.Thr275Met]) and one compound heterozygous (c.1006C>T [p.Arg356Cys] and c.485T>A [p.Met162Lys]) SUN5 (also named TSARG4) variants. Sanger sequencing of SUN5 in 15 additional unrelated infertile men revealed four compound heterozygous (c.381delA [p.Val128Serfs∗7] and c.824C>T [p.Thr275Met]; c.381delA [p.Val128Serfs∗7] and c.781G>A [p.Val261Met]; c.216G>A [p.Trp72∗] and c.1043A>T [p.Asn348Ile]; c.425+1G>A/c.1043A>T [p.Asn348Ile]) and two homozygous (c.851C>G [p.Ser284∗]; c.350G>A [p.Gly114Arg]) variants in six individuals. These 10 SUN5 variants were found in 8 of 17 unrelated men, explaining the genetic defect in 47.06% of the affected individuals in our cohort. These variants were absent in 100 fertile population-matched control individuals. SUN5 variants lead to absent, significantly reduced, or truncated SUN5, and certain variants altered SUN5 distribution in the head-tail junction of the sperm. In summary, these results demonstrate that biallelic SUN5 mutations cause male infertility due to autosomal-recessive acephalic spermatozoa syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuxi Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; School of Life Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China.
| | - Fengsong Wang
- School of Life Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- Center of Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Huan Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Zhou Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Xiaojin He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Zhaolian Wei
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Jozef Gecz
- School of Medicine, Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, and South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia 5006, Australia
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei 230022, China.
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15
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Meier I. LINCing the eukaryotic tree of life - towards a broad evolutionary comparison of nucleocytoplasmic bridging complexes. J Cell Sci 2016; 129:3523-3531. [PMID: 27591260 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.186700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuclear envelope is much more than a simple barrier between nucleoplasm and cytoplasm. Nuclear envelope bridging complexes are protein complexes spanning both the inner and outer nuclear envelope membranes, thus directly connecting the cytoplasm with the nucleoplasm. In metazoans, they are involved in connecting the cytoskeleton with the nucleoskeleton, and act as anchoring platforms at the nuclear envelope for the positioning and moving of both nuclei and chromosomes. Recently, nucleocytoplasmic bridging complexes have also been identified in more evolutionarily diverse organisms, including land plants. Here, I discuss similarities and differences among and between eukaryotic supergroups, specifically of the proteins forming the cytoplasmic surface of these complexes. I am proposing a structure and function for a hypothetical ancestral nucleocytoplasmic bridging complex in the last eukaryotic common ancestor, with the goal to stimulate research in more diverse emerging model organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Meier
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, 520 Aronoff Laboratory, 318 W 12th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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16
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Pasch E, Link J, Beck C, Scheuerle S, Alsheimer M. The LINC complex component Sun4 plays a crucial role in sperm head formation and fertility. Biol Open 2015; 4:1792-802. [PMID: 26621829 PMCID: PMC4736043 DOI: 10.1242/bio.015768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
LINC complexes are evolutionarily conserved nuclear envelope bridges, physically connecting the nucleus to the peripheral cytoskeleton. They are pivotal for dynamic cellular and developmental processes, like nuclear migration, anchoring and positioning, meiotic chromosome movements and maintenance of cell polarity and nuclear shape. Active nuclear reshaping is a hallmark of mammalian sperm development and, by transducing cytoskeletal forces to the nuclear envelope, LINC complexes could be vital for sperm head formation as well. We here analyzed in detail the behavior and function of Sun4, a bona fide testis-specific LINC component. We demonstrate that Sun4 is solely expressed in spermatids and there localizes to the posterior nuclear envelope, likely interacting with Sun3/Nesprin1 LINC components. Our study revealed that Sun4 deficiency severely impacts the nucleocytoplasmic junction, leads to mislocalization of other LINC components and interferes with the formation of the microtubule manchette, which finally culminates in a globozoospermia-like phenotype. Together, our study provides direct evidence for a critical role of LINC complexes in mammalian sperm head formation and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Pasch
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg D-97074, Germany
| | - Jana Link
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg D-97074, Germany
| | - Carolin Beck
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg D-97074, Germany
| | - Stefanie Scheuerle
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg D-97074, Germany
| | - Manfred Alsheimer
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg D-97074, Germany
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17
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SUN4 is essential for nuclear remodeling during mammalian spermiogenesis. Dev Biol 2015; 407:321-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2015.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Revised: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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18
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Razafsky D, Hodzic D. Nuclear envelope: positioning nuclei and organizing synapses. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2015; 34:84-93. [PMID: 26079712 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2015.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Revised: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The nuclear envelope plays an essential role in nuclear positioning within cells and tissues. This review highlights advances in understanding the mechanisms of nuclear positioning during skeletal muscle and central nervous system development. New findings, particularly about A-type lamins and Nesprin1, may link nuclear envelope integrity to synaptic integrity. Thus synaptic defects, rather than nuclear mispositioning, may underlie human pathologies associated with mutations of nuclear envelope proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Razafsky
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Didier Hodzic
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, St Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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19
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Zhou X, Graumann K, Meier I. The plant nuclear envelope as a multifunctional platform LINCed by SUN and KASH. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2015; 66:1649-59. [PMID: 25740919 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erv082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The nuclear envelope (NE) is a double membrane system enclosing the genome of eukaryotes. Besides nuclear pore proteins, which form channels at the NE, nuclear membranes are populated by a collection of NE proteins that perform various cellular functions. However, in contrast to well-conserved nuclear pore proteins, known NE proteins share little homology between opisthokonts and plants. Recent studies on NE protein complexes formed by Sad1/UNC-84 (SUN) and Klarsicht/ANC-1/Syne-1 Homology (KASH) proteins have advanced our understanding of plant NE proteins and revealed their function in anchoring other proteins at the NE, nuclear shape determination, nuclear positioning, anti-pathogen defence, root development, and meiotic chromosome organization. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of plant SUN, KASH, and other related NE proteins, and compare their function with the opisthokont counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zhou
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Katja Graumann
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Headington Campus, Oxford OX3 OBP, UK
| | - Iris Meier
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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20
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Link J, Jahn D, Alsheimer M. Structural and functional adaptations of the mammalian nuclear envelope to meet the meiotic requirements. Nucleus 2015; 6:93-101. [PMID: 25674669 PMCID: PMC4615672 DOI: 10.1080/19491034.2015.1004941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies in the past years provided definite evidence that the nuclear envelope is much more than just a simple barrier. It rather constitutes a multifunctional platform combining structural and dynamic features to fulfill many fundamental functions such as chromatin organization, regulation of transcription, signaling, but also structural duties like maintaining general nuclear architecture and shape. One additional and, without doubt, highly impressive aspect is the recently identified key function of selected nuclear envelope components in driving meiotic chromosome dynamics, which in turn is essential for accurate recombination and segregation of the homologous chromosomes. Here, we summarize the recent work identifying new key players in meiotic telomere attachment and movement and discuss the latest advances in our understanding of the actual function of the meiotic nuclear envelope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Link
- a Department of Cell and Developmental Biology ; Biocenter University Würzburg ; Würzburg , Germany
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21
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Gorbsky GJ. The spindle checkpoint and chromosome segregation in meiosis. FEBS J 2015; 282:2471-87. [PMID: 25470754 DOI: 10.1111/febs.13166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The spindle checkpoint is a key regulator of chromosome segregation in mitosis and meiosis. Its function is to prevent precocious anaphase onset before chromosomes have achieved bipolar attachment to the spindle. The spindle checkpoint comprises a complex set of signaling pathways that integrate microtubule dynamics, biomechanical forces at the kinetochores, and intricate regulation of protein interactions and post-translational modifications. Historically, many key observations that gave rise to the initial concepts of the spindle checkpoint were made in meiotic systems. In contrast with mitosis, the two distinct chromosome segregation events of meiosis present a special challenge for the regulation of checkpoint signaling. Preservation of fidelity in chromosome segregation in meiosis, controlled by the spindle checkpoint, also has a significant impact in human health. This review highlights the contributions from meiotic systems in understanding the spindle checkpoint as well as the role of checkpoint signaling in controlling the complex divisions of meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary J Gorbsky
- Cell Cycle & Cancer Biology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, OK, USA
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22
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Viera A, Alsheimer M, Gómez R, Berenguer I, Ortega S, Symonds CE, Santamaría D, Benavente R, Suja JA. CDK2 regulates nuclear envelope protein dynamics and telomere attachment in mouse meiotic prophase. J Cell Sci 2014; 128:88-99. [PMID: 25380821 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.154922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In most organisms, telomeres attach to the nuclear envelope at the onset of meiosis to promote the crucial processes of pairing, recombination and synapsis during prophase I. This attachment of meiotic telomeres is mediated by the specific distribution of several nuclear envelope components that interact with the attachment plates of the synaptonemal complex. We have determined by immunofluorescence and electron microscopy that the ablation of the kinase CDK2 alters the nuclear envelope in mouse spermatocytes, and that the proteins SUN1, KASH5 (also known as CCDC155) and lamin C2 show an abnormal cap-like distribution facing the centrosome. Strikingly, some telomeres are not attached to the nuclear envelope but remain at the nuclear interior where they are associated with SUN1 and with nuclear-envelope-detached vesicles. We also demonstrate that mouse testis CDK2 phosphorylates SUN1 in vitro. We propose that during mammalian prophase I the kinase CDK2 is a key factor governing the structure of the nuclear envelope and the telomere-led chromosome movements essential for homolog pairing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Viera
- Unidad de Biología Celular, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manfred Alsheimer
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, D-97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Rocío Gómez
- Unidad de Biología Celular, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Inés Berenguer
- Unidad de Biología Celular, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sagrario Ortega
- Biotechnology Program, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas, E-28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Catherine E Symonds
- Molecular Oncology Program, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas, E-28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - David Santamaría
- Molecular Oncology Program, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas, E-28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricardo Benavente
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, D-97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - José A Suja
- Unidad de Biología Celular, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049 Madrid, Spain
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23
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Varas J, Baroux C. Meiotic chromosome movements in plants, a puppet show? FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2014; 5:502. [PMID: 25324852 PMCID: PMC4178376 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2014.00502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/09/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Javier Varas
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Biología, Universidad Complutense de MadridMadrid, Spain
| | - Célia Baroux
- Department of Plant Developmental Genetics, Institute of Plant Biology, Zürich-Basel Plant Science Center, University of ZürichZürich, Switzerland
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24
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Klutstein M, Cooper JP. The Chromosomal Courtship Dance-homolog pairing in early meiosis. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2014; 26:123-31. [PMID: 24529254 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2013.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2013] [Revised: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The intermingling of genomes that characterizes sexual reproduction requires haploid gametes in which parental homologs have recombined. For this, homologs must pair during meiosis. In a crowded nucleus where sequence homology is obscured by the enormous scale and packaging of the genome, partner alignment is no small task. Here we review the early stages of this process. Chromosomes first establish an initial docking site, usually at telomeres or centromeres. The acquisition of chromosome-specific patterns of binding factors facilitates homolog recognition. Chromosomes are then tethered to the nuclear envelope (NE) and subjected to nuclear movements that 'shake off' inappropriate contacts while consolidating homolog associations. Thereafter, homolog connections are stabilized by building the synaptonemal complex or its equivalent and creating genetic crossovers. Recent perspectives on the roles of these stages will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Klutstein
- Cancer Research UK, London Research Institute, NIH, London WC2A 3LY, United Kingdom; National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, United States
| | - Julia Promisel Cooper
- Cancer Research UK, London Research Institute, NIH, London WC2A 3LY, United Kingdom; National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, United States.
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25
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Razafsky D, Wirtz D, Hodzic D. Nuclear envelope in nuclear positioning and cell migration. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 773:471-90. [PMID: 24563361 PMCID: PMC4310828 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4899-8032-8_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Hauling and anchoring the nucleus within immobile or motile cells, tissues, and/or syncytia represents a major challenge. In the past 15 years, Linkers of the Nucleoskeleton to the Cytoskeleton (LINC complexes) have emerged as evolutionary-conserved molecular devices that span the nuclear envelope and provide interacting interfaces for cytoskeletal networks and molecular motors to the nuclear envelope. Here, we review the molecular composition of LINC complexes and focus on how their genetic alteration in vivo has provided a wealth of information related to the relevance of nuclear positioning during tissue development and homeostasis with a special emphasis on the central nervous system. As it may be relevant for metastasis in a range of cancers, the involvement of LINC complexes in migration of nonneuronal cells via its interaction with the perinuclear actin cap will also be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Razafsky
- Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, 660 South Euclid Ave, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Denis Wirtz
- The Johns Hopkins University, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular engineering, 3400 North Charles St., Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Didier Hodzic
- Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, 660 South Euclid Ave, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA
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26
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Rothballer A, Kutay U. The diverse functional LINCs of the nuclear envelope to the cytoskeleton and chromatin. Chromosoma 2013; 122:415-29. [PMID: 23736899 PMCID: PMC3777164 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-013-0417-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Revised: 05/14/2013] [Accepted: 05/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The nuclear envelope (NE) is connected to the different types of cytoskeletal elements by linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complexes. LINC complexes exist from yeast to humans, and have preserved their general architecture throughout evolution. They are composed of SUN and KASH domain proteins of the inner and the outer nuclear membrane, respectively. These SUN–KASH bridges are used for the transmission of forces across the NE and support diverse biological processes. Here, we review the function of SUN and KASH domain proteins in various unicellular and multicellular species. Specifically, we discuss their influence on nuclear morphology and cytoskeletal organization. Further, emphasis is given on the role of LINC complexes in nuclear anchorage and migration as well as in genome organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Rothballer
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, ETH Zurich, Schafmattstrasse 18, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Kutay
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, ETH Zurich, Schafmattstrasse 18, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
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27
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Structural insights into LINC complexes. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2013; 23:285-91. [PMID: 23597672 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2013.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2013] [Revised: 02/21/2013] [Accepted: 03/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Communication between nucleus and cytoplasm extends past molecular exchange and critically includes mechanical wiring. Cytoskeleton and nucleoskeleton are connected via molecular tethers that span the nuclear envelope. Sad1, UNC84 (SUN)-domain proteins spanning the inner nuclear membrane and Klarsicht, ANC-1 and SYNE/Nesprin-1 and -2 Homology (KASH)-peptide bearing proteins residing in the outer nuclear membrane directly bind and constitute the core of the LInkers of Nucleoskeleton and Cytoskeleton (LINC) complex. These connections appear critical for a growing number of biological processes and aberrations are implicated in a host of diverse diseases, including muscular dystrophies, cardiomyopathies, and premature aging. We discuss recent developments in this vibrant research area, particularly in context of first structural insights into LINC complexes reported in the past year.
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