1
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Yan S, Wang J, Chen H, Zhang D, Imam M. Divergent features of ERβ isoforms in triple negative breast cancer: progress and implications for further research. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1240386. [PMID: 37936981 PMCID: PMC10626554 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1240386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor β (ERβ) was discovered more than 20 years ago. However, the extent and role of ERβ expression in breast cancer remain controversial, especially in the context of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). ERβ exists as multiple isoforms, and a series of studies has revealed an inconsistent role of ERβ isoforms in TNBC. Our recent results demonstrated contrasting functions of ERβ1 and ERβ2/β5 in TNBC. Additional research should be conducted to explore the functions of individual ERβ isoforms and develop targeted drugs according to the relevant mechanisms. Consequently, a systematic review of ERβ isoforms is necessary. In this review, we overview the structure of ERβ isoforms and detail what is known about the function of ERβ isoforms in normal mammary tissue and breast cancer. Moreover, this review highlights the divergent features of ERβ isoforms in TNBC. This review also provides insights into the implications of targeting ERβ isoforms for clinical treatment. In conclusion, this review provides a framework delineating the roles and mechanisms of different ERβ isoforms in TNBC and sheds light on future directions for basic and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunchao Yan
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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2
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Katleba KD, Ghosh PM, Mudryj M. Beyond Prostate Cancer: An Androgen Receptor Splice Variant Expression in Multiple Malignancies, Non-Cancer Pathologies, and Development. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2215. [PMID: 37626712 PMCID: PMC10452427 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple studies have demonstrated the importance of androgen receptor (AR) splice variants (SVs) in the progression of prostate cancer to the castration-resistant phenotype and their utility as a diagnostic. However, studies on AR expression in non-prostatic malignancies uncovered that AR-SVs are expressed in glioblastoma, breast, salivary, bladder, kidney, and liver cancers, where they have diverse roles in tumorigenesis. AR-SVs also have roles in non-cancer pathologies. In granulosa cells from women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, unique AR-SVs lead to an increase in androgen production. In patients with nonobstructive azoospermia, testicular Sertoli cells exhibit differential expression of AR-SVs, which is associated with impaired spermatogenesis. Moreover, AR-SVs have been identified in normal cells, including blood mononuclear cells, neuronal lipid rafts, and the placenta. The detection and characterization of AR-SVs in mammalian and non-mammalian species argue that AR-SV expression is evolutionarily conserved and that AR-SV-dependent signaling is a fundamental regulatory feature in multiple cellular contexts. These discoveries argue that alternative splicing of the AR transcript is a commonly used mechanism that leads to an expansion in the repertoire of signaling molecules needed in certain tissues. Various malignancies appropriate this mechanism of alternative AR splicing to acquire a proliferative and survival advantage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberley D. Katleba
- Veterans Affairs-Northern California Health Care System, 10535 Hospital Way, Mather, CA 95655, USA; (K.D.K.); (P.M.G.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, 1 Shields Avenue, UC Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Paramita M. Ghosh
- Veterans Affairs-Northern California Health Care System, 10535 Hospital Way, Mather, CA 95655, USA; (K.D.K.); (P.M.G.)
- Department of Urologic Surgery, 4860 Y Street, UC Davis, Sacramento, CA 95718, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 1 Shields Avenue, UC Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Maria Mudryj
- Veterans Affairs-Northern California Health Care System, 10535 Hospital Way, Mather, CA 95655, USA; (K.D.K.); (P.M.G.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, 1 Shields Avenue, UC Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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3
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Zhang X, Zhou J, Li L, Huang W, Ahmad HI, Li H, Jiang H, Chen J. Full-length transcriptome sequencing and comparative transcriptomic analysis to uncover genes involved in early gametogenesis in the gonads of Amur sturgeon ( Acipenser schrenckii). Front Zool 2020; 17:11. [PMID: 32308726 PMCID: PMC7147073 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-020-00355-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sturgeons (Acipenseriformes) are polyploid chondrostean fish that constitute an important model species for studying development and evolution in vertebrates. To better understand the mechanisms of reproduction regulation in sturgeon, this study combined PacBio isoform sequencing (Iso-Seq) with Illumina short-read RNA-seq methods to discover full-length genes involved in early gametogenesis of the Amur sturgeon, Acipenser schrenckii. RESULTS A total of 50.04 G subread bases were generated from two SMRT cells, and herein 164,618 nonredundant full-length transcripts (unigenes) were produced with an average length of 2782 bp from gonad tissues (three testes and four ovaries) from seven 3-year-old A. schrenckii individuals. The number of ovary-specific expressed unigenes was greater than those of testis (19,716 vs. 3028), and completely different KEGG pathways were significantly enriched between the ovary-biased and testis-biased DEUs. Importantly, 60 early gametogenesis-related genes (involving 755 unigenes) were successfully identified, and exactly 50% (30/60) genes of those showed significantly differential expression in testes and ovaries. Among these, the Amh and Gsdf with testis-biased expression, and the Foxl2 and Cyp19a with ovary-biased expression strongly suggested the important regulatory roles in spermatogenesis and oogenesis of A. schrenckii, respectively. We also found the four novel Sox9 transcript variants, which increase the numbers of regulatory genes and imply function complexity in early gametogenesis. Finally, a total of 236,672 AS events (involving 36,522 unigenes) were detected, and 10,556 putative long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and 4339 predicted transcript factors (TFs) were also respectively identified, which were all significantly associated with the early gametogenesis of A. schrenckii. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our results provide new genetic resources of full-length transcription data and information as a genomic-level reference for sturgeon. Crucially, we explored the comprehensive genetic characteristics that differ between the testes and ovaries of A. schrenckii in the early gametogenesis stage, which could provide candidate genes and theoretical basis for further the mechanisms of reproduction regulation of sturgeon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiujuan Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Guangdong Institute of Applied Biological Resources, Guangzhou, 510260 Guangdong China
| | - Jiabin Zhou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Guangdong Institute of Applied Biological Resources, Guangzhou, 510260 Guangdong China
| | - Linmiao Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Guangdong Institute of Applied Biological Resources, Guangzhou, 510260 Guangdong China
| | - Wenzhong Huang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Guangdong Institute of Applied Biological Resources, Guangzhou, 510260 Guangdong China
| | - Hafiz Ishfaq Ahmad
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Guangdong Institute of Applied Biological Resources, Guangzhou, 510260 Guangdong China
| | - Huiming Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Guangdong Institute of Applied Biological Resources, Guangzhou, 510260 Guangdong China
| | - Haiying Jiang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Guangdong Institute of Applied Biological Resources, Guangzhou, 510260 Guangdong China
| | - Jinping Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Guangdong Institute of Applied Biological Resources, Guangzhou, 510260 Guangdong China
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4
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Guercio G, Saraco N, Costanzo M, Marino R, Ramirez P, Berensztein E, Rivarola MA, Belgorosky A. Estrogens in Human Male Gonadotropin Secretion and Testicular Physiology From Infancy to Late Puberty. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:72. [PMID: 32158430 PMCID: PMC7051936 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Several reports in humans as well as transgenic mouse models have shown that estrogens play an important role in male reproduction and fertility. Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ) are expressed in different male tissues including the brain. The estradiol-binding protein GPER1 also mediates estrogen action in target tissues. In human testes a minimal ERα expression during prepuberty along with a marked pubertal up-regulation in germ cells has been reported. ERβ expression was detected mostly in spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes, and immature spermatids. In Sertoli cells ERβ expression increases with age. The aromatase enzyme (cP450arom), which converts androgens to estrogens, is widely expressed in human tissues (including gonads and hypothalamus), even during fetal life, suggesting that estrogens are also involved in human fetal physiology. Moreover, cP450arom is expressed in the early postnatal testicular Leydig cells and spermatogonia. Even though the aromatase complex is required for estrogen synthesis, its biological relevance is also related to the regulation of the balance between androgens and estrogens in different tissues. Knockout mouse models of aromatase (ArKO) and estrogen receptors (ERKOα, ERKOβ, and ERKOαβ) provide an important tool to study the effects of estrogens on the male reproductive physiology including the gonadal axis. High basal serum FSH levels were reported in adult aromatase-deficient men, suggesting that estrogens are involved in the negative regulatory gonadotropin feedback. However, normal serum gonadotropin levels were observed in an aromatase-deficient boy, suggesting a maturational pattern role of estrogen in the regulation of gonadotropin secretion. Nevertheless, the role of estrogens in primate testis development and function is controversial and poorly understood. This review addresses the role of estrogens in gonadotropin secretion and testicular physiology in male humans especially during childhood and puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Guercio
- Endocrinology Department, Hospital de Pediatría “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Research Institute Garrahan-CONICET, Hospital de Pediatría “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nora Saraco
- Endocrinology Department, Hospital de Pediatría “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Research Institute Garrahan-CONICET, Hospital de Pediatría “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariana Costanzo
- Endocrinology Department, Hospital de Pediatría “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Roxana Marino
- Endocrinology Department, Hospital de Pediatría “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo Ramirez
- Endocrinology Department, Hospital de Pediatría “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Esperanza Berensztein
- Endocrinology Department, Hospital de Pediatría “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Cellular Biology and Histology, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marco A. Rivarola
- Endocrinology Department, Hospital de Pediatría “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Research Institute Garrahan-CONICET, Hospital de Pediatría “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alicia Belgorosky
- Endocrinology Department, Hospital de Pediatría “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Research Institute Garrahan-CONICET, Hospital de Pediatría “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Alicia Belgorosky
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5
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Schneider F, Scheffer B, Dabel J, Heckmann L, Schlatt S, Kliesch S, Neuhaus N. Options for Fertility Treatments for Trans Women in Germany. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8050730. [PMID: 31121910 PMCID: PMC6572223 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8050730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation in trans women is a crucial but thus far neglected component in the gender confirming treatment in Germany. It is difficult for trans women to access reproductive health care because centers offering treatment, psychological guidance, gender confirming surgery, as well as reproductive health services are scarce in Germany. Legal, social, or financial issues as well as individual patient comorbidities prevent trans women from receiving appropriate counselling. This review provides an overview on options of fertility preservation in trans women. We consider recent publications on testicular regression at the time of gender confirming surgery demonstrating presence of sperm or at least spermatogonia in the majority of tissues. This may open options for cryopreservation of sperm or testicular stem cells in trans women even at the final stage of transition. Hence, standardized urological procedures (i.e., sperm cryopreservation after masturbation or sperm extraction from the testicular tissue) and experimental approaches (cryopreservation of testicular tissue with undifferentiated spermatogonia) can be offered best at the initiation but also during the gender confirming process. However, counselling early in the gender confirming process increases the chances of fertility preservation because gender confirming hormone therapy has an impact on spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Schneider
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Muenster, Germany.
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Muenster, Germany.
| | - Bettina Scheffer
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Muenster, Germany.
| | - Jennifer Dabel
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Muenster, Germany.
| | - Laura Heckmann
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Muenster, Germany.
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Muenster, Germany.
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Muenster, Germany.
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Muenster, Germany.
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6
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Velloso FJ, Bianco AFR, Farias JO, Torres NEC, Ferruzo PYM, Anschau V, Jesus-Ferreira HC, Chang THT, Sogayar MC, Zerbini LF, Correa RG. The crossroads of breast cancer progression: insights into the modulation of major signaling pathways. Onco Targets Ther 2017; 10:5491-5524. [PMID: 29200866 PMCID: PMC5701508 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s142154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the disease with highest public health impact in developed countries. Particularly, breast cancer has the highest incidence in women worldwide and the fifth highest mortality in the globe, imposing a significant social and economic burden to society. The disease has a complex heterogeneous etiology, being associated with several risk factors that range from lifestyle to age and family history. Breast cancer is usually classified according to the site of tumor occurrence and gene expression profiling. Although mutations in a few key genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, are associated with high breast cancer risk, the large majority of breast cancer cases are related to mutated genes of low penetrance, which are frequently altered in the whole population. Therefore, understanding the molecular basis of breast cancer, including the several deregulated genes and related pathways linked to this pathology, is essential to ensure advances in early tumor detection and prevention. In this review, we outline key cellular pathways whose deregulation has been associated with breast cancer, leading to alterations in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and the delicate hormonal balance of breast tissue cells. Therefore, here we describe some potential breast cancer-related nodes and signaling concepts linked to the disease, which can be positively translated into novel therapeutic approaches and predictive biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Valesca Anschau
- Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Ted Hung-Tse Chang
- Cancer Genomics Group, International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Luiz F Zerbini
- Cancer Genomics Group, International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ricardo G Correa
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
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7
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Li Y, Liu Y, Lu Y, Zhao B. Inhibitory effects of 17β-estradiol or a resveratrol dimer on hypoxia-inducible factor-1α in genioglossus myoblasts: Involvement of ERα and its downstream p38 MAPK pathways. Int J Mol Med 2017; 40:1347-1356. [PMID: 28901388 PMCID: PMC5627877 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.3123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Deficiency in the functioning of the genioglossus, which is one of the upper airway dilator muscles, is an important cause of obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). Estrogens have been reported to inhibit hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) expression in hypoxia, regulating its target genes and exerting protective effects on the genioglossus in chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH). This study aimed to investigate the role of 17β-estradiol (E2) and a resveratrol dimer (RD) on HIF-1α and the underlying mechanism. Mouse genioglossus myoblasts were isolated and cultured, and the estrogen receptor α (ERα) shRNA lentivirus was used for gene knockdown. Then MTT assay was used to determine the effects of E2 and RD on the viability of the cells. Cells in different groups were treated with different agents (E2, or RD, or E2 and SB203580), incubated under normoxia or hypoxia for 24 h, and then expression levels of HIF-1α, ERα, ERβ, total-p38 MAPK and phospho-p38 MAPK were detected. We observed that both E2 and RD inhibited the overexpression of HIF-1α induced by hypoxia at the mRNA and protein levels, and these effects were eliminated by genetic silencing of ERα by RNAi. In addition, we found that E2 activated p38 MAPK pathways to inhibit HIF-1α expression. On the whole, ERα may be responsible for downregulation of HIF-1α by E2 or RD via activation of downstream p38 MAPK pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Li
- Department of Orthodontics, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tongji University, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Shanghai 200072, P.R. China
| | - Yuehua Liu
- Department of Orthodontics, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tongji University, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Shanghai 200072, P.R. China
| | - Yun Lu
- Department of Orthodontics, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Shanghai 200001, P.R. China
| | - Bingjiao Zhao
- Department of Orthodontics, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Shanghai 200001, P.R. China
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8
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Zanatta AP, Brouard V, Gautier C, Goncalves R, Bouraïma-Lelong H, Mena Barreto Silva FR, Delalande C. Interactions between oestrogen and 1α,25(OH) 2-vitamin D 3 signalling and their roles in spermatogenesis and spermatozoa functions. Basic Clin Androl 2017; 27:10. [PMID: 28491323 PMCID: PMC5421336 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-017-0053-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Oestrogens and 1α,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 (1,25-D3) are steroids that can provide effects by binding to their receptors localised in the cytoplasm and in the nucleus or the plasma membrane respectively inducing genomic and non-genomic effects. As confirmed notably by invalidation of the genes, coding for their receptors as tested with mice with in vivo and in vitro treatments, oestrogens and 1,25-D3 are regulators of spermatogenesis. Moreover, some functions of ejaculated spermatozoa as viability, DNA integrity, motility, capacitation, acrosome reaction and fertilizing ability are targets for these hormones. The studies conducted on their mechanisms of action, even though not completely elicited, have allowed the demonstration of putative interactions between their signalling pathways that are worth examining more closely. The present review focuses on the elements regulated by oestrogens and 1,25-D3 in the testis and spermatozoa as well as the interactions between the signalling pathways of both hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Zanatta
- INRA, OeReCa, Normandie University, UNICAEN, 14000 Caen, France.,Biochemistry Department, Laboratory of Hormones & Signal Transduction, UFSC, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Brouard
- INRA, OeReCa, Normandie University, UNICAEN, 14000 Caen, France
| | - Camille Gautier
- INRA, OeReCa, Normandie University, UNICAEN, 14000 Caen, France
| | - Renata Goncalves
- INRA, OeReCa, Normandie University, UNICAEN, 14000 Caen, France.,Biochemistry Department, Laboratory of Hormones & Signal Transduction, UFSC, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | | | | | - Christelle Delalande
- INRA, OeReCa, Normandie University, UNICAEN, 14000 Caen, France.,Laboratoire Œstrogènes, Reproduction, Cancer (OeReCa), EA 2608 USC INRA1377, Université de Caen Normandie, Esplanade de la Paix, CS 14032, 14032 CAEN cedex 5, France
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9
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Dostalova P, Zatecka E, Dvorakova-Hortova K. Of Oestrogens and Sperm: A Review of the Roles of Oestrogens and Oestrogen Receptors in Male Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18050904. [PMID: 28441342 PMCID: PMC5454817 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18050904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Revised: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The crucial role that oestrogens play in male reproduction has been generally accepted; however, the exact mechanism of their action is not entirely clear and there is still much more to be clarified. The oestrogen response is mediated through oestrogen receptors, as well as classical oestrogen receptors’ variants, and their specific co-expression plays a critical role. The importance of oestrogen signalling in male fertility is indicated by the adverse effects of selected oestrogen-like compounds, and their interaction with oestrogen receptors was proven to cause pathologies. The aims of this review are to summarise the current knowledge on oestrogen signalling during spermatogenesis and sperm maturation and discuss the available information on oestrogen receptors and their splice variants. An overview is given of species-specific differences including in humans, along with a detailed summary of the methodology outcome, including all the genetically manipulated models available to date. This review provides coherent information on the recently discovered mechanisms of oestrogens’ and oestrogen receptors’ effects and action in both testicular somatic and germ cells, as well as in mature sperm, available for mammals, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavla Dostalova
- Group of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology CAS, v.v.i., BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 25250 Vestec, Czech Republic.
| | - Eva Zatecka
- Group of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology CAS, v.v.i., BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 25250 Vestec, Czech Republic.
| | - Katerina Dvorakova-Hortova
- Group of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology CAS, v.v.i., BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 25250 Vestec, Czech Republic.
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Vinicna 7, 12844 Prague 2, Czech Republic.
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10
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Santillo A, Falvo S, Chieffi P, Di Fiore MM, Senese R, Chieffi Baccari G. D-Aspartate Induces Proliferative Pathways in Spermatogonial GC-1 Cells. J Cell Physiol 2016; 231:490-5. [PMID: 26189884 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
D-aspartate (D-Asp) is an endogenous amino acid present in vertebrate tissues, with particularly high levels in the testis. In vivo studies indicate that D-Asp indirectly stimulates spermatogenesis through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Moreover, in vitro studies have demonstrated that D-Asp up-regulates testosterone production in Leydig cells by enhancing expression of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein. In this study, a cell line derived from immortalized type-B mouse spermatogonia retaining markers of mitotic germ cells (GC-1) was employed to explore more direct involvement of D-Asp in spermatogenesis. Activity and protein expression of markers of cell proliferation were determined at intervals during incubation in D-Asp-containing medium. D-Asp induced phosphorylation of ERK and Akt proteins, stimulated expression of PCNA and Aurora B, and enhanced mRNA synthesis and protein expression of P450 aromatase and protein expression of Estrogen Receptor β (ERβ). These results are the first demonstration of a direct effect of D-Asp on spermatogonial mitotic activity. Considering that spermatogonia express the NR1 subunit of the N-Methyl-D-Aspartic Acid receptor (NMDAR), we suggest that their response to D-Asp depends on NMDAR-mediated activation of the ERK and Akt pathways and is further enhanced by activation of the P450 aromatase/ERβ pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Seconda Università di Napoli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Sara Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Seconda Università di Napoli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Paolo Chieffi
- Dipartimento di Psicologia, Seconda Università di Napoli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Seconda Università di Napoli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Rosalba Senese
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Seconda Università di Napoli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Seconda Università di Napoli, Caserta, Italy
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11
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Aquila S, De Amicis F. Steroid receptors and their ligands: effects on male gamete functions. Exp Cell Res 2014; 328:303-13. [PMID: 25062984 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2014.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2014] [Revised: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In recent years a new picture of human sperm biology is emerging. It is now widely recognized that sperm contain nuclear encoded mRNA, mitochondrial encoded RNA and different transcription factors including steroid receptors, while in the past sperm were considered incapable of transcription and translation. One of the main targets of steroid hormones and their receptors is reproductive function. Expression studies on Progesterone Receptor, estrogen receptor, androgen receptor and their specific ligands, demonstrate the presence of these systems in mature spermatozoa as surface but also as nuclear conventional receptors, suggesting that both systemic and local steroid hormones, through sperm receptors, may influence male reproduction. However, the relationship between the signaling events modulated by steroid hormones and sperm fertilization potential as well as the possible involvement of the specific receptors are still controversial issues. The main line of this review highlights the current research in human sperm biology examining new molecular systems of response to the hormones as well as specific regulatory pathways controlling sperm cell fate and biological functions. Most significant studies regarding the identification of steroid receptors are reported and the mechanistic insights relative to signaling pathways, together with the change in sperm metabolism energy influenced by steroid hormones are discussed.The reviewed evidences suggest important effects of Progesterone, Estrogen and Testosterone and their receptors on spermatozoa and implicate the involvement of both systemic and local steroid action in the regulation of male fertility potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saveria Aquila
- Department of Pharmacy, Health Science and Nutrition, University of Calabria, Via P Bucci cubo 34 B, Rende 87036, CS, Italy
| | - Francesca De Amicis
- Department of Pharmacy, Health Science and Nutrition, University of Calabria, Via P Bucci cubo 34 B, Rende 87036, CS, Italy.
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12
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Alves MG, Rato L, Carvalho RA, Moreira PI, Socorro S, Oliveira PF. Hormonal control of Sertoli cell metabolism regulates spermatogenesis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2013; 70:777-93. [PMID: 23011766 PMCID: PMC11113727 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-012-1079-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2012] [Revised: 06/11/2012] [Accepted: 06/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Hormonal regulation is essential to spermatogenesis. Sertoli cells (SCs) have functions that reach far beyond the physical support of germ cells, as they are responsible for creating the adequate ionic and metabolic environment for germ cell development. Thus, much attention has been given to the metabolic functioning of SCs. During spermatogenesis, germ cells are provided with suitable metabolic substrates, in a set of events mediated by SCs. Multiple signaling cascades regulate SC function and several of these signaling pathways are hormone-dependent and cell-specific. Within the seminiferous tubules, only SCs possess receptors for some hormones rendering them major targets for the hormonal signaling that regulates spermatogenesis. Although the mechanisms by which SCs fulfill their own and germ cells metabolic needs are mostly studied in vitro, SC metabolism is unquestionably a regulation point for germ cell development and the hormonal control of these processes is required for a normal spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco G. Alves
- CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Luís Rato
- CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Rui A. Carvalho
- CNC-UC, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology (FCTUC), University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paula I. Moreira
- CNC-UC, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sílvia Socorro
- CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Pedro F. Oliveira
- CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
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13
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Schoen J, Sharbati S, Ritter J, Jewgenow K. Feline Gonads Exhibit Tissue Specific Alternative Splicing of Oestrogen Receptor Alpha (ESR1). Reprod Domest Anim 2012; 47 Suppl 6:30-4. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2012] [Accepted: 07/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J Schoen
- Institute of Veterinary Biochemistry; Freie Universität Berlin; Berlin; Germany
| | - S Sharbati
- Institute of Veterinary Biochemistry; Freie Universität Berlin; Berlin; Germany
| | | | - K Jewgenow
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW); Berlin; Germany
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14
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Expression of estrogen receptors-α in testicular biopsies from nonobstructive azoospermic patients. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1097/01.ehx.0000418063.67260.66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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15
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Laurentino SS, Pinto PIS, Tomás J, Cavaco JE, Sousa M, Barros A, Power DM, Canário AVM, Socorro S. Identification of androgen receptor variants in testis from humans and other vertebrates. Andrologia 2012; 45:187-94. [PMID: 22734680 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2012.01333.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The androgen receptor (AR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor member of the nuclear receptor superfamily. The existence of alternatively spliced variants is well recognised for several members of this superfamily, most of them having functional importance. For example, several testicular oestrogen receptor variants have been suggested to play a role in the regulation of spermatogenesis. However, information on AR variants is mostly related to cancer and androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS) cases. The objective of this study was to investigate the expression of AR variants in the testis from humans and other vertebrates. Four AR variants [ARΔ2(Stop) , ARΔ2(23Stop) , ARΔ3 and ARΔ4(120)] were identified in human testis. ARΔ2(Stop) and ARΔ3, with exon 2 or 3 deleted, respectively, were also expressed in human liver, lung, kidney and heart. In addition, ARΔ2(Stop) was expressed in rat and gilthead seabream testis, while an ARΔ3 was detected in African clawed frog testis. This is the first report revealing the existence of AR variants in the testis of evolutionarily distant vertebrate species and in nonpathological tissues. These data suggest the functional importance of these novel AR forms and demonstrate a complexity in AR signalling that is not exclusive of pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- S S Laurentino
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Center, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
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16
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Abstract
Aromatase that irreversibly transforms androgens into estrogens is present in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum of nearly all cell types in the mammalian testis. In rodents, all testicular cells except for myoid cells express aromatase activity. We have demonstrated the presence of the functional aromatase (transcript or protein, and biological activity) in adult rat germ cells including pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. We have also demonstrated estrogen output from these cells equivalent to that of Leydig cells. Unlike androgen receptors, which are localized mainly in testicular somatic cells, estrogen receptors are present in both somatic and germ cells in the testis. Moreover, we have recently described the rapid membrane effects of estrogens (via G protein-coupled receptor [GPER]) in purified rat germ cells. On the basis of various experimental models, in vitro studies and clinical data, it can be concluded that estrogens play an essential role in male reproduction, specifically in the development of spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Carreau
- University of Caen Basse-Normandie, Esplanade de la Paix-14032, CAEN Cedex, France.
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17
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Kristiansen W, Andreassen K, Karlsson R, Aschim E, Bremnes R, Dahl O, Fosså S, Klepp O, Langberg C, Solberg A, Tretli S, Adami HO, Wiklund F, Grotmol T, Haugen T. Gene variations in sex hormone pathways and the risk of testicular germ cell tumour: a case–parent triad study in a Norwegian–Swedish population. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:1525-35. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
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18
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Gibson DA, Saunders PTK. Estrogen dependent signaling in reproductive tissues - a role for estrogen receptors and estrogen related receptors. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 348:361-72. [PMID: 21964318 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2011] [Revised: 09/03/2011] [Accepted: 09/12/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens play a fundamental role in the development and normal physiological function of multiple tissue systems and have been implicated in the ontogeny of cancers. The biological effects of estrogens are classically mediated via interaction with cognate nuclear receptors. The relative expression of ER subtypes/variants varies between cells within different tissues and this alters the response to natural and synthetic ligands. This review focuses on the role of estrogen and estrogen related receptors in reproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Gibson
- MRC/UoE Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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19
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Disruption of spermatogenesis and differential regulation of testicular estrogen receptor expression in mice after polychlorinated biphenyl exposure. Toxicology 2011; 287:21-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2011.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2011] [Revised: 05/16/2011] [Accepted: 05/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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20
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Huang W, Zhang Y, Jia X, Ma X, Li S, Liu Y, Zhu P, Lu D, Zhao H, Luo W, Yi S, Liu X, Lin H. Distinct expression of three estrogen receptors in response to bisphenol A and nonylphenol in male Nile tilapias (Oreochromis niloticus). FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2010; 36:237-249. [PMID: 19009365 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-008-9280-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2008] [Accepted: 10/09/2008] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Environmental estrogens, such as bisphenol A (BisA) and nonylphenol (NP), have been shown to affect the estrogen receptor (ER) expression and induce male reproductive abnormalities. To elucidate molecular mechanisms of action of xenoestrogenic chemicals on the expression of estrogen receptors in the testes of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), three full-length cDNAs respectively encoding ntERalpha, ntERbeta1 and ntERbeta2 were cloned from testes. The amino acid sequences of ntERalpha, ntERbeta1 and ntERbeta2 showed a high degree of similarity to the relevant fish species. Tissue-specific expression study showed that three receptors were highly expressed in pituitary, liver, testis, kidney and intestine tissues. The ntERalpha, ntERbeta1 and ntERbeta2 mRNA expressions were significantly higher at the sexual early recrudescing stage than at other recrudesced stages. After being exposed to xenoestrogens from weeks 2 to 4, the ntERalpha mRNA levels were increased significantly in testes after NP treatment at all sampling times or after 4 weeks of exposure to BPA. The ntERbeta1 mRNA levels remained unchanged, while a significant decrease of the ntERbeta2 mRNA level was observed in testes after exposure to NP and BPA. The present study demonstrates that the regulation of all three ntER subtypes in testes may act via different molecular mechanisms of exposure to NP and BPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiren Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, and the Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
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21
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Hermo L, Pelletier RM, Cyr DG, Smith CE. Surfing the wave, cycle, life history, and genes/proteins expressed by testicular germ cells. Part 5: intercellular junctions and contacts between germs cells and Sertoli cells and their regulatory interactions, testicular cholesterol, and genes/proteins associated with more than one germ cell generation. Microsc Res Tech 2010; 73:409-94. [PMID: 19941291 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.20786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In the testis, cell adhesion and junctional molecules permit specific interactions and intracellular communication between germ and Sertoli cells and apposed Sertoli cells. Among the many adhesion family of proteins, NCAM, nectin and nectin-like, catenins, and cadherens will be discussed, along with gap junctions between germ and Sertoli cells and the many members of the connexin family. The blood-testis barrier separates the haploid spermatids from blood borne elements. In the barrier, the intercellular junctions consist of many proteins such as occludin, tricellulin, and claudins. Changes in the expression of cell adhesion molecules are also an essential part of the mechanism that allows germ cells to move from the basal compartment of the seminiferous tubule to the adluminal compartment thus crossing the blood-testis barrier and well-defined proteins have been shown to assist in this process. Several structural components show interactions between germ cells to Sertoli cells such as the ectoplasmic specialization which are more closely related to Sertoli cells and tubulobulbar complexes that are processes of elongating spermatids embedded into Sertoli cells. Germ cells also modify several Sertoli functions and this also appears to be the case for residual bodies. Cholesterol plays a significant role during spermatogenesis and is essential for germ cell development. Lastly, we list genes/proteins that are expressed not only in any one specific generation of germ cells but across more than one generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Hermo
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 2B2.
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22
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Carreau S, Wolczynski S, Galeraud-Denis I. Aromatase, oestrogens and human male reproduction. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2010; 365:1571-9. [PMID: 20403870 PMCID: PMC2871913 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2009.0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In most mammalian species aromatase is encoded by a single gene (Cyp19), which contains 18 exons, nine of them being translated. In man, the presence of a biologically active aromatase and oestrogen receptors (ERalpha and ERbeta) has been reported in Leydig cells, and also in immature germ cells and ejaculated spermatozoa. Concerning aromatase, the amount of transcript and enzymatic activity are decreased in immotile compared with motile sperm. We have amplified aromatase mRNA by real-time polymerase chain reaction in spermatozoa from asthenospermic, teratospermic and asthenoteratospermic men and recorded, respectively, 44, 52 and 67 per cent decreases of the amount of transcripts compared with fertile donors. A high degree of correlation (r = -0.64) between the abnormal spermatozoa (especially microcephaly and acrosome malformations) and aromatase/GAPDH transcript ratio has been observed. Idiopathic infertility is a wide health problem and no treatment is currently available. In humans, even if the role of oestrogens in spermatogenesis is still a matter of debate, the observations of decreased sperm number and motility in men genetically deficient in aromatase, together with our data and those reported in the literature, may suggest a role for aromatase/oestrogens not only during the development and maintenance of spermatogenesis but also in the final maturation of spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Carreau
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Caen, EA 2608, IFR 146, Caen, France.
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23
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Lazari MFM, Lucas TFG, Yasuhara F, Gomes GRO, Siu ER, Royer C, Fernandes SAF, Porto CS. Estrogen receptors and function in the male reproductive system. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 53:923-33. [DOI: 10.1590/s0004-27302009000800005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2009] [Accepted: 11/11/2009] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
A substantial advance in our understanding on the estrogen signaling occurred in the last decade. Estrogens interact with two receptors, ESR1 and ESR2, also known as ERα and ERβ, respectively. ESR1 and ESR2 belong to the nuclear receptor family of transcription factors. In addition to the well established transcriptional effects, estrogens can mediate rapid signaling, triggered within seconds or minutes. These rapid effects can be mediated by ESRs or the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor GPER, also known as GPR30. The effects of estrogen on cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis are often mediated by growth factors. The understanding of the cross-talk between androgen, estrogen and growth factors signaling pathways is therefore essential to understand the physiopathological mechanisms of estrogen action. In this review we focused on recent discoveries about the nature of the estrogen receptors, and on the signaling and function of estrogen in the male reproductive system.
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24
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Thuillier R, Manku G, Wang Y, Culty M. Changes in MAPK pathway in neonatal and adult testis following fetal estrogen exposure and effects on rat testicular cells. Microsc Res Tech 2009; 72:773-86. [DOI: 10.1002/jemt.20756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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25
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Carreau S, Delalande C, Galeraud-Denis I. Mammalian sperm quality and aromatase expression. Microsc Res Tech 2009; 72:552-7. [DOI: 10.1002/jemt.20703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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26
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Taylor SE, Martin-Hirsch PL, Martin FL. Oestrogen receptor splice variants in the pathogenesis of disease. Cancer Lett 2009; 288:133-48. [PMID: 19608332 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2009.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2009] [Revised: 06/12/2009] [Accepted: 06/16/2009] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The full-length oestrogen receptor (ER) exists in most vertebrates as two separately encoded isoforms. ER splice variants represent truncated or otherwise modified versions of the full-length alpha or beta isoforms of the parent receptor. ERalpha is found on chromosome 6q and encodes a 595 amino acid protein, while ERbeta is found on chromosome 14q and encodes a 530 amino acid protein. These receptors possess differing ligand affinities, are differentially expressed in a tissue-specific fashion and may act antagonistically. Their altered expression has been implicated in the pathophysiology of a diverse range of conditions from cancer progression in hormone-responsive tissues to neurodegenerative disease. Variously co-expressed with full-length ERs, ER splice variants may have a positive or negative influence on transcription either by modifying the effect of the parent receptor or through their own intrinsic activity. To date, the vast majority of studies have used generic primers or antibodies against the full-length receptors and would not distinguish ER-mediated effects associated with various splice variants. Thus the evidence base of the influence of ER splice variants in normal developmental physiology and in the pathogenesis of disease is weak and greater understanding of their role will undoubtedly lead to new therapeutic strategies for disease intervention and treatment. This review aims to compile the current evidence for the presence of ER splice variants in humans, their physiological roles and clinical sequelae.
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27
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Carreau S, Galeraud-Denis I. Transcripts of Aromatase and Estrogen Receptors and Significance of Other RNAs in Human Spermatozoa. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 53:249-55. [DOI: 10.1080/01485010701569908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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28
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Rago V, Romeo F, Giordano F, Ferraro A, Andò S, Carpino A. Identification of ERbeta1 and ERbeta2 in human seminoma, in embryonal carcinoma and in their adjacent intratubular germ cell neoplasia. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:56. [PMID: 19493328 PMCID: PMC2700117 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2009] [Accepted: 06/03/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogens exert a role on germ cell physiology of normal human testis through the mediation of the estrogen receptor (ER) beta subtypes. Epidemiological studies evidenced an increased incidence of testicular germ cell cancer after elevated pre-natal estrogen exposure but the expression of estrogen receptors in these testicular neoplasms has not been well elucidated. METHODS Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis were used to investigate the expression of three distinct ER isoforms, ERalpha, ERbeta1, and ERbeta2 in paraffin-embedded tissues from seminomas and embryonal carcinomas, which are the most common testicular germ cell tumours. RESULTS Neoplastic cells of all specimens revealed a positive ERbeta1 and ERbeta2 immunoreactivity, while the ERalpha signal was undetectable. A similar pattern of estrogen receptor immunostaining was also observed in the malignant germ cells of intratubular germ cell neoplasia, adjacent to testicular cancers. Western blot analysis of tumour extracts revealed two immunoreactive bands, a 59 kDa band for ERbeta1 and a 53 kDa band for ERbeta2. CONCLUSION A variable ERbeta expression was previously reported in testicular germ cell tumours and, particularly, an ERbeta down-regulation was evidenced in seminoma and embryonal carcinoma. Conversely, the current study has clearly identified ERbeta1 and ERbeta2 in the neoplastic cells of seminoma and embryonal carcinoma, as well as in the malignant cells of their common pre-invasive precursor, intratubular germ cell neoplasia. Therefore, our findings suggest that ERbeta1, together with a possible ERbeta2 contribute, can mediate estrogen action in both early and late neoplastic testicular germ cells, not confirming the previously hypothesized antiproliferative effect of ERbeta on male gonadal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Rago
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Francesco Romeo
- Pathologic Anatomy Unit, Annunziata Hospital, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Francesca Giordano
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Aurora Ferraro
- Pathologic Anatomy Unit, Annunziata Hospital, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Andò
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Amalia Carpino
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
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29
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Abstract
The mammalian testis is a complex organ which produces spermatozoa and synthesizes steroids. The transformation of androgens into estrogens is catalyzed by aromatase, an enzymatic complex encoded by a single copy-gene (cyp19) which contains 18 exons, 9 of them being translated. In man besides Leydig cells, we have demonstrated the existence of a biologically active aromatase in immature germ cells and in ejaculated spermatozoa. In addition the presence of estrogen receptors (ERalpha and ERss) in immature germ cells and in spermatozoa has been reported. Concerning aromatase, a 30% decrease of the amount of mRNA is observed in immotile compared to motile sperm fraction from the same sample. In asthenoteratozoospermic, teratozoospermic and asthenozoospermic patients, the aromatase gene expression is decreased respectively by 67%, 52% and 44%, when compared to normospermic controls. Statistical analyses between the sperm morphology and the aromatase/GAPDH ratio have revealed a high degree of correlation (r=-0.64) between that ratio and the percentage of abnormal spermatozoa (especially microcephaly). In men genetically deficient in aromatase diminutions of sperm number and motility have been published. Therefore besides gonadotrophins and testosterone, estrogens are likely playing a relevant role in spermiogenesis and human male gamete maturation.
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30
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Lee TL, Pang ALY, Rennert OM, Chan WY. Genomic landscape of developing male germ cells. BIRTH DEFECTS RESEARCH. PART C, EMBRYO TODAY : REVIEWS 2009; 87:43-63. [PMID: 19306351 PMCID: PMC2939912 DOI: 10.1002/bdrc.20147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a highly orchestrated developmental process by which spermatogonia develop into mature spermatozoa. This process involves many testis- or male germ cell-specific gene products whose expressions are strictly regulated. In the past decade the advent of high-throughput gene expression analytical techniques has made functional genomic studies of this process, particularly in model animals such as mice and rats, feasible and practical. These studies have just begun to reveal the complexity of the genomic landscape of the developing male germ cells. Over 50% of the mouse and rat genome are expressed during testicular development. Among transcripts present in germ cells, 40% - 60% are uncharacterized. A number of genes, and consequently their associated biological pathways, are differentially expressed at different stages of spermatogenesis. Developing male germ cells present a rich repertoire of genetic processes. Tissue-specific as well as spermatogenesis stage-specific alternative splicing of genes exemplifies the complexity of genome expression. In addition to this layer of control, discoveries of abundant presence of antisense transcripts, expressed psuedogenes, non-coding RNAs (ncRNA) including long ncRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs) and Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), and retrogenes all point to the presence of multiple layers of expression and functional regulation in male germ cells. It is anticipated that application of systems biology approaches will further our understanding of the regulatory mechanism of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tin-Lap Lee
- Section on Developmental Genomics, Laboratory of Clinical Genomics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Alan Lap-Yin Pang
- Section on Developmental Genomics, Laboratory of Clinical Genomics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Owen M. Rennert
- Section on Developmental Genomics, Laboratory of Clinical Genomics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Wai-Yee Chan
- Section on Developmental Genomics, Laboratory of Clinical Genomics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, Department of Pediatrics, Georgetown University College of Medicine, Washington, DC
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Abstract
Despite significant advances in contraceptive options for women over the last 50 yr, world population continues to grow rapidly. Scientists and activists alike point to the devastating environmental impacts that population pressures have caused, including global warming from the developed world and hunger and disease in less developed areas. Moreover, almost half of all pregnancies are still unwanted or unplanned. Clearly, there is a need for expanded, reversible, contraceptive options. Multicultural surveys demonstrate the willingness of men to participate in contraception and their female partners to trust them to do so. Notwithstanding their paucity of options, male methods including vasectomy and condoms account for almost one third of contraceptive use in the United States and other countries. Recent international clinical research efforts have demonstrated high efficacy rates (90-95%) for hormonally based male contraceptives. Current barriers to expanded use include limited delivery methods and perceived regulatory obstacles, which stymie introduction to the marketplace. However, advances in oral and injectable androgen delivery are cause for optimism that these hurdles may be overcome. Nonhormonal methods, such as compounds that target sperm motility, are attractive in their theoretical promise of specificity for the reproductive tract. Gene and protein array technologies continue to identify potential targets for this approach. Such nonhormonal agents will likely reach clinical trials in the near future. Great strides have been made in understanding male reproductive physiology; the combined efforts of scientists, clinicians, industry and governmental funding agencies could make an effective, reversible, male contraceptive an option for family planning over the next decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie T Page
- Center for Research in Reproduction and Contraception, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA.
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Battista N, Rapino C, Di Tommaso M, Bari M, Pasquariello N, Maccarrone M. Regulation of male fertility by the endocannabinoid system. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2008; 286:S17-23. [PMID: 18328619 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2008.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2007] [Revised: 01/16/2008] [Accepted: 01/16/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian conception is a complex process regulated by both sexual behavior and reproductive performance. Alcohol, marijuana and tobacco are among the main factors which affect negatively fertility in women and men. Several studies have demonstrated that marijuana impairs the male copulatory activity, and that smokers of this illegal drug show reduced fertility due, for instance, to decrease in sperm concentration, defective sperm function or alteration of sperm morphology. The discovery of endocannabinoids and all components responsible for their metabolism has allowed to collect valuable information on the effects of these endogenous lipids, able to mimic the actions of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), in reproductive functions. The purpose of this review is to describe the actions of cannabinoids and endocannabinoids on the control of procreation and hormonal release during the fertilization process in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Battista
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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Zhu P, Zhang Y, Zhuo Q, Lu D, Huang J, Liu X, Lin H. Discovery of four estrogen receptors and their expression profiles during testis recrudescence in male Spinibarbus denticulatus. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2008; 156:265-76. [PMID: 18321502 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2008.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2007] [Revised: 12/16/2007] [Accepted: 01/15/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen plays an important role in male reproduction. Most of the actions are mediated by estrogen receptor (ER). To investigate the profile of estrogen affecting male fertility, we firstly cloned four ERs from the male Spinibarbus denticulatus, a local economically important cyprinid fish in China. Phylogenetic tree analysis ranked the four sdERs as two distinct groups of ERalpha and beta, which could be further divided into duplicated isoforms 1 and 2, respectively. High score identities were shared between each of the duplicated isoforms. All of the four sdERs distributed in central nervous system of male fish with a quite broad spectrum. However, distribution diversity became evident between sdERalpha and sdERbeta subtypes in the peripheral tissues. Both of the two isoforms of ERbeta were detected in all seven tissues examined, while expression of sdERalpha1 was mainly limited to liver, kidney, testis and intestine and sdERalpha2 was confined to liver, heart, kidney, testis and gill. During the testis recrudescing stages, serum concentration of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T) and estradiol-17beta (E(2)) were increasing. T and LH levels in the circulation were high until the later fully recrudesced phase, while serum E(2) level was low all the time. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR analysis determined the most abundance of sdERs in pituitary where the two sdERalpha isoforms positively expressed with testis development, while sdERbeta isoforms expressed with a reverse pattern. sdERalpha1 and sdERbeta1 were the primary forms in testis. sdERalpha1 gradually increased during the recrudescence process while sdERbeta1 firstly decreased during the recrudescing stage and then positively expressed in fully recrudesced stage. Little or no signal was detected in brain. The present work provided evidence of four sdERs in male reproductive system and suggested an important role of sdERalpha1 during testis recrudescence. Pituitary contained duplicates forms of sdERalpha which may play a role in the feedback effects of estrogen on LH secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Carreau S, Silandre D, Bourguiba S, Hamden K, Said L, Lambard S, Galeraud-Denis I, Delalande C. Estrogens and male reproduction: a new concept. Braz J Med Biol Res 2008; 40:761-8. [PMID: 17581673 DOI: 10.1590/s0100-879x2007000600003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2007] [Accepted: 05/04/2007] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The mammalian testis serves two main functions: production of spermatozoa and synthesis of steroids; among them estrogens are the end products obtained from the irreversible transformation of androgens by a microsomal enzymatic complex named aromatase. The aromatase is encoded by a single gene (cyp19) in humans which contains 18 exons, 9 of them being translated. In rats, the aromatase activity is mainly located in Sertoli cells of immature rats and then in Leydig cells of adult rats. We have demonstrated that germ cells represent an important source of estrogens: the amount of P450arom transcript is 3-fold higher in pachytene spermatocytes compared to gonocytes or round spermatids; conversely, aromatase activity is more intense in haploid cells. Male germ cells of mice, bank voles, bears, and monkeys express aromatase. In humans, we have shown the presence of a biologically active aromatase and of estrogen receptors (alpha and ss) in ejaculated spermatozoa and in immature germ cells in addition to Leydig cells. Moreover, we have demonstrated that the amount of P450arom transcripts is 30% lower in immotile than in motile spermatozoa. Alterations of spermatogenesis in terms of number and motility of spermatozoa have been described in men genetically deficient in aromatase. These last observations, together with our data showing a significant decrease of aromatase in immotile spermatozoa, suggest that aromatase could be involved in the acquisition of sperm motility. Thus, taking into account the widespread localization of aromatase and estrogen receptors in testicular cells, it is obvious that, besides gonadotrophins and androgens, estrogens produced locally should be considered to be physiologically relevant hormones involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Carreau
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Caen, Caen, France.
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Lucas TFG, Siu ER, Esteves CA, Monteiro HP, Oliveira CA, Porto CS, Lazari MFM. 17beta-estradiol induces the translocation of the estrogen receptors ESR1 and ESR2 to the cell membrane, MAPK3/1 phosphorylation and proliferation of cultured immature rat Sertoli cells. Biol Reprod 2007; 78:101-14. [PMID: 17928626 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.107.063909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to determine the mechanisms involved in estrogen actions in cultured rat Sertoli cells. RT-PCR detected transcripts for the estrogen receptors ESR1 and ESR2 in cultured immature Sertoli cells and in the testis of 15-, 28-, and 120-day-old rats. The expression of ESR1 and ESR2 was confirmed in Sertoli cells by immunofluorescence and Western blot. Immunohistochemistry with cryosections of testes from immature and adult rats revealed that ESR1 is present in Sertoli, Leydig, and some peritubular myoid cells, and ESR2 is present in multiple cell types, including germ cells. Treatment of Sertoli cells with 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) induced a translocation of ESR1 and ESR2 to the plasma membrane and a concomitant phosphorylation of MAPK3/1. Both effects reached a maximum after 10 min and were blocked by PP2, an inhibitor of the SRC family of protein tyrosine kinases, and by the antiestrogen ICI 182,780 (ICI). MAPK3/1 phosphorylation was also decreased in the presence of AG 1478, an inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) kinase, and in the presence of MAP2K1/2 inhibitor UO126. Treatment with E(2) for 24 h increased the incorporation of [methyl-(3)H]thymidine, which was blocked by ICI. These results indicate that E(2) activates an SRC-mediated translocation of estrogen receptors to the plasma membrane, which results in the activation of EGFR and the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway. In addition, activation of ESR1 and/or ESR2 by E(2) is involved in proliferation of immature Sertoli cells. The estrogen actions in Sertoli cells might be a key step mediating cellular events important for spermatogenesis and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís F G Lucas
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, Brazil
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Rago V, Aquila S, Panza R, Carpino A. Cytochrome P450arom, androgen and estrogen receptors in pig sperm. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2007; 5:23. [PMID: 17553131 PMCID: PMC1894639 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-5-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2007] [Accepted: 06/06/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Androgens and estrogens are crucial for mammalian sperm differentiation but their role in biology of mature male gamete is not still defined. The expression of proteins involved in the biosynthesis and action of these steroid hormones has been demonstrated in human spermatozoa, but very few data have been reported in mature sperm from non human species. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the expression of aromatase (P450arom), estrogen (ERalpha/ERbeta) and androgen (AR) receptors in ejaculated spermatozoa of pig. METHODS The immunfluorescence experiments were carried out treating pig sperm with anti-P450arom, anti-ERalpha, anti-ERbeta and anti-AR as primary antibodies, while Texas-Red/FITC conjugated IgG were applied as secondary antibodies. Furthermore, Western blot analysis was performed on sperm lysates. RESULTS Aromatase was immunolocalized in the sperm tail, ERalpha and AR were localised in the sperm midpiece, while ERbeta was confined in the acrosomal region of the male gamete. Immunoblots detected a ~52 kDa aromatase band, a ~110 kDa AR band, a ~67 kDa ERalpha and two ERbeta bands, at ~50 kDa and ~59 kDa. CONCLUSION This is the first report demonstrating that pig ejaculated spermatozoa express aromatase, estrogen and androgen receptors with a differential intra-cellular localization revealing a species-specific expression pattern. Therefore, pig sperm could be considered as a potential estrogen source while the different hormone cellular sites suggest distinct roles of androgens and estrogens in pig sperm physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Rago
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, 87030 Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Saveria Aquila
- Department of Pharmaco-Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, 87030 Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Rocco Panza
- Swine Artificial Insemination Centre, APA, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Amalia Carpino
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, 87030 Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy
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Stabile V, Russo M, Chieffi P. 17β-Estradiol induces Akt-1 through estrogen receptor-β in the frog (Rana esculenta) male germ cells. Reproduction 2006; 132:477-84. [PMID: 16940288 DOI: 10.1530/rep.1.01107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence support the key role of estrogens in male fertility. Here, we investigate the regulation of the serine/threonine kinase Akt-1 in the frog (Rana esculenta) testis during the annual sexual cycle and, whether 17β-estradiol (E2) exerts a role in the Akt-1 activity. Akt-1 has been shown to be the mediator of growth factor-dependent cell proliferation, survival, and metabolism in a variety of cell types.
First, we demonstrate by immunohistochemistry, the presence of estrogen receptor-β (ERβ), and Akt-1 in the spermatogonia (SPG), spermatocytes (SPC), and spermatids (SPT). Western-blot analysis revealed that ERβ isoform (molecular weight 55 kDa) was highly expressed in May (reproductive period) with respect to January and November (winter stasis); in parallel, Akt-1 (molecular weight 60 kDa) is highly phosphorylated (Ser-473) during the period of active spermatogenesis (May) compared with the winter stasis (January and November). In addition, in vitro experiments demonstrate that E2 treatment induces the activation of Akt-1, and this effect is counteracted by the anti-estrogen ICI 182–780. In conclusion, our data show that E2 induces Akt-1 phosphorylation (Ser-473) possibly via ERβ in frog (R. esculenta) male germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Stabile
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, II Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli, 16, 80138 Napoli, Naples, Italy
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Rago V, Siciliano L, Aquila S, Carpino A. Detection of estrogen receptors ER-alpha and ER-beta in human ejaculated immature spermatozoa with excess residual cytoplasm. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2006; 4:36. [PMID: 16846491 PMCID: PMC1550242 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-4-36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2006] [Accepted: 07/17/2006] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A key role of estrogens in human sperm biology has been recently suggested by aromatase and estrogen receptor detection in human testicular germ cells and ejaculated spermatozoa. However, the involvement of these hormones in the sperm maturation process is still not defined. The aim of this work was to investigate the expression of estrogen receptors, ER-alpha and ER-beta, in human ejaculated immature spermatozoa with excess residual cytoplasm. METHODS Immunofluorescence labelling has been used to localize ER-alpha and ER-beta proteins in immature spermatozoa isolated by Percoll gradient, while Western blot analysis was carried out on sperm protein extracts. RESULTS Both estrogen receptors were localized in excess residual cytoplasm of immature sperm, while sperm tails showed only ER-beta. Furthermore, in the same cells, immunoblots detected the presence of the full-length (approximately 67 kDa) ER-alpha and (approximately 59 kDa) ER-beta proteins, together with a approximately 50 kDa ER-beta species, lacking in mature sperm. CONCLUSION The present investigation demonstrated ER-alpha and ER-beta presence in excess residual cytoplasm of human abnormal sperm cells, suggesting the hypothesis that both the 'classical' ERs could be able to mediate estrogen action in spermatogenetic cells. Furthermore, the presence of the short ER-beta form in abnormal germ cells and its disappearance in mature sperm, support estrogen modulation via different ER forms during sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Rago
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Laura Siciliano
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Saveria Aquila
- Department of Pharmaco-Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Amalia Carpino
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
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Petersen C, Soder O. The sertoli cell--a hormonal target and 'super' nurse for germ cells that determines testicular size. HORMONE RESEARCH 2006; 66:153-61. [PMID: 16804315 DOI: 10.1159/000094142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The somatic Sertoli cell plays an essential role in embryonic determination of male somatic sex and in spermatogenesis during adult life. One individual Sertoli cell supplies a clone of developing germ cells with nutrients and growth factors and it is well established that the number of Sertoli cells present is closely correlated to both testicular size and sperm output. Sertoli cells continue to proliferate and differentiate until the beginning of puberty, when they cease dividing and start nursing the germ cells. At this point in time, the future capacity of the testis for sperm production has thus been determined. Prior to puberty the Sertoli cells are immature and differ considerably with respect to morphology and biochemical activity from the mature cell. The several investigations that have focused on hormonal and paracrine regulation of the functions of the mature cell are reviewed here, but the mechanisms underlying the maturation and general maintenance of well-functioning Sertoli cells remain obscure. An alarming decline in male reproductive health has been observed in several Western countries during recent decades. Disturbance of Sertoli cell differentiation is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of both a poor sperm count and testicular cancer. It is speculated that environmental agents that disrupt the estrogenic/androgenic balance in the testis may play a role in this connection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Petersen
- Paediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Vicini E, Loiarro M, Di Agostino S, Corallini S, Capolunghi F, Carsetti R, Chieffi P, Geremia R, Stefanini M, Sette C. 17-beta-estradiol elicits genomic and non-genomic responses in mouse male germ cells. J Cell Physiol 2006; 206:238-45. [PMID: 15991248 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.20454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens have been postulated to exert a detrimental effect on spermatogenesis in vivo. Since mouse male germ cells express estrogen receptors, we have investigated whether molecular pathways are activated by estrogen stimulation of these cells. Our results demonstrate that estrogen receptor beta is expressed in mitotic and meiotic male germ cells as well as in the spermatogonia derived GC-1 cell line. By using this cell line, we show that 17-beta-estradiol triggers activation of a transcriptional response that requires a functional estrogen receptor. Moreover, GC-1 cells respond to estrogens by transiently activating a signal transduction pathway that impinges on the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) ERK1 and -2. A similar dose-dependent transient activation of ERKs was also observed in primary mouse spermatocytes in culture. Activation by the estrogen was specific because other steroids such as progesterone and dihydrotestosterone were ineffective and because it could be blocked by the selective inhibitor of the ERK pathway and by competitive inhibitors of the estrogen receptor. Finally, we observed that 17-beta-estradiol does not affect spontaneous or induced apoptosis in cultured mouse spermatocytes, indicating that the apoptotic effects observed in vivo require additional testicular components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Vicini
- Department of Histology and Medical Embriology, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
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Rago V, Romeo F, Aquila S, Montanaro D, Andò S, Carpino A. Cytochrome P450 aromatase expression in human seminoma. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2005; 3:72. [PMID: 16372909 PMCID: PMC1352362 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-3-72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2005] [Accepted: 12/22/2005] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The enzyme cytochrome P450 aromatase, catalysing the conversion of androgens into estrogens, has been detected in normal human testicular cells suggesting a physiological role of local estrogen biosynthesis on spermatogenesis control. Estrogens, regulating cell growth and apoptosis, can also be involved in tumorigenesis process, but the possible link between estrogens and testicular neoplastic process is, up to now, scarcely known. This study examined aromatase expression in human seminoma, which is the most common germ cell tumour of the testis. METHODS The tumour-bearing testes were obtained from 20 patients with classic seminoma undergoing to therapeutic orchidectomy. Paraffin embedded tissues were processed for immunohistochemistry using a mouse monoclonal antibody generated against human placental cytochrome P450 arom, as primary antibody, and a biotinylated goat-anti-mouse IgG, as secondary antibody. Furthermore, Western blot analysis of seminoma extracts was carried out. RESULTS Intense P450 arom immunoreactivity was observed in the seminoma cells and Western blot analysis confirmed the immunodetection. A strong immunostaining was also detected in cells of intratubular germ cell neoplasia (IGCN), adjacent to seminoma. CONCLUSION The present study demonstrated, for the first time in human, aromatase expression in neoplastic cells of seminoma suggesting a relation between local estrogen biosynthesis and germ cell tumorigenesis. The P450 arom immunolocalization in the cells of IGCN, representing the common precursor of most germ cell tumors, seems to support these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Rago
- Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Italy
| | - Francesco Romeo
- Pathologic Anatomy Unit, Annunziata Hospital, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Saveria Aquila
- Pharmaco-Biology Departments, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Italy
| | | | - Sebastiano Andò
- Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Italy
| | - Amalia Carpino
- Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Italy
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Abstract
The mammalian testis serves two main functions: production of spermatozoa and synthesis of steroids, among them oestrogens are the end products obtained from the irreversible transformation of androgens by aromatase (P450arom). Up today P450arom has been demonstrated in male germ cells of all mammals so far studied (mice, rat, bank vole, bear, monkey). In man Leydig cells and immature germ cells as well as ejaculated spermatozoa express a biologically active aromatase. Moreover germ cells and spermatozoa contain oestrogen receptors (ER-alpha and ER-beta) and it is of note that a truncated form of ER-alpha is present in spermatozoa. These observations clearly suggest that oestrogens are likely concerned in various stages of male germ cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Lambard
- Laboratoire de Biochimie-IBFA, UPRES EA 2608-USC INRA, Université de Caen, Caen Cédex, France
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Mantovani A, Maranghi F. Risk assessment of chemicals potentially affecting male fertility. Contraception 2005; 72:308-13. [PMID: 16181977 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2005.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2005] [Accepted: 04/06/2005] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Male reproductive toxicity involves a broad range of targets and mechanisms such as direct effects on the seminiferous epithelium and/or on Leydig and Sertoli cells supporting spermatogenesis, epididymal sperm maturation as well as endocrine disruption. Direct effects on spermatogenesis may be adequately revealed through both reproduction and repeated-dose toxicity studies; however, more research is needed on early markers of effect and on long-term sequelae of short-term exposures. Endocrine-related mechanisms are particularly relevant to subtle, but persistent effects on reproductive development due to altered early programming; the two-generation study is the test of choice, whereas targeted studies on the prepubertal phase are also desirable. Studies using in vitro methods as well as toxicogenomics are increasing; although gaps exist and much validation work is needed, in perspective, such approaches may be important in order to select compound, understand mechanisms, as well identify biomarkers of potential use also in human studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Mantovani
- Department of Food Safety and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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