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Zhao Y, Wang XQ, Liu RQ, Jiang FW, Wang JX, Chen MS, Zhang H, Cui JG, Chang YH, Li JL. SLC7A11 as a therapeutic target to attenuate phthalates-driven testosterone level decline in mice. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00216-9. [PMID: 38797476 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Phthalates exposure is a major public health concern due to the accumulation in the environment and associated with levels of testosterone reduction, leading to adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, the relationship between phthalate-induced testosterone level decline and ferroptosis remains poorly defined. OBJECTIVES Herein, we aimed to explore the mechanisms of phthalates-induced testosterone synthesis disorder and its relationship to ferroptosis. METHODS We conducted validated experiments in vivo male mice model and in vitro mouse Leydig TM3 cell line, followed by RNA sequencing and metabolomic analysis. We evaluated the levels of testosterone synthesis-associated enzymes and ferroptosis-related indicators by using qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Then, we analyzed the lipid peroxidation, ROS, Fe2+ levels and glutathione system to confirm the occurrence of ferroptosis. RESULTS In the present study, we used di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) to identify ferroptosis as the critical contributor to phthalate-induced testosterone level decline. It was demonstrated that DEHP caused glutathione metabolism and steroid synthesis disorders in Leydig cells. As the primary metabolite of DEHP, mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) triggered testosterone synthesis disorder accompanied by a decrease in the expression of solute carri1er family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) protein. Furthermore, MEHP synergistically induced ferroptosis with Erastin through the increase of intracellular and mitochondrial ROS, and lipid peroxidation production. Mechanistically, overexpression of SLC7A11 counteracts the synergistic effect of co-exposure to MEHP-Erastin. CONCLUSION Our research results suggest that MEHP does not induce ferroptosis but synergizes Erastin-induced ferroptosis. These findings provide evidence for the role of ferroptosis in phthalates-induced testosterone synthesis disorder and point to SLC7A11 as a potential target for male reproductive diseases. This study established a correlation between ferroptosis and phthalates cytotoxicity, providing a novel view point for mitigating the issue of male reproductive disease and "The Global Plastic Toxicity Debt".
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Xue-Qi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Rui-Qi Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Fu-Wei Jiang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Jia-Xin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Ming-Shan Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Hao Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Jia-Gen Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Yuan-Hang Chang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Jin-Long Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
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Kong Z, Zhu L, Liu Y, Liu Y, Chen G, Jiang T, Wang H. Effects of azithromycin exposure during pregnancy at different stages, doses and courses on testicular development in fetal mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:116063. [PMID: 38154271 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Azithromycin is a commonly used antibiotic during pregnancy, but some studies have suggested its potential developmental toxicity. Currently, the effects and mechanisms of prenatal azithromycin exposure (PAzE) on fetal testicular development are still unclear. The effects of prenatal exposure to the same drug on fetal testicular development could vary depending on different stages, doses, and courses. Hence, in this study, based on clinical medication characteristics, Kunming mice was administered intragastrically with azithromycin at different stages (mid-/late-pregnancy), doses (50, 100, 200 mg/kg·d), and courses (single-/multi-course). Fetal blood and testicular samples were collected on GD18 for relevant assessments. The results indicated that PAzE led to changes in fetal testicular morphology, reduced cell proliferation, increased apoptosis, and decreased expression of markers related to Leydig cells (Star), Sertoli cells (Wt1), and spermatogonia (Plzf). Further investigation revealed that the effects of PAzE on fetal testicular development were characterized by mid-pregnancy, high dose (clinical dose), and single course having more pronounced effects. Additionally, the TGFβ/Smad and Nrf2 signaling pathways may be involved in the changes in fetal testicular development induced by PAzE. In summary, this study confirmed that PAzE influences fetal testicular morphological development and multicellular function. It provided theoretical and experimental evidence for guiding the rational use of azithromycin during pregnancy and further exploring the mechanisms underlying its developmental toxicity on fetal testicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyu Kong
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Lu Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Guanghui Chen
- Wuhan University People's Hospital, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Suizhou Emergency Medical Center, Suizhou 441300, China.
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan 430071, China.
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Conner MM, Schaner Tooley CE. Three's a crowd - why did three N-terminal methyltransferases evolve for one job? J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs260424. [PMID: 36647772 PMCID: PMC10022744 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.260424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
N-terminal methylation of the α-amine group (Nα-methylation) is a post-translational modification (PTM) that was discovered over 40 years ago. Although it is not the most abundant of the Nα-PTMs, there are more than 300 predicted substrates of the three known mammalian Nα-methyltransferases, METTL11A and METTL11B (also known as NTMT1 and NTMT2, respectively) and METTL13. Of these ∼300 targets, the bulk are acted upon by METTL11A. Only one substrate is known to be Nα-methylated by METTL13, and METTL11B has no proven in vivo targets or predicted targets that are not also methylated by METTL11A. Given that METTL11A could clearly handle the entire substrate burden of Nα-methylation, it is unclear why three distinct Nα-methyltransferases have evolved. However, recent evidence suggests that many methyltransferases perform important biological functions outside of their catalytic activity, and the Nα-methyltransferases might be part of this emerging group. Here, we describe the distinct expression, localization and physiological roles of each Nα-methyltransferase, and compare these characteristics to other methyltransferases with non-catalytic functions, as well as to methyltransferases with both catalytic and non-catalytic functions, to give a better understanding of the global roles of these proteins. Based on these comparisons, we hypothesize that these three enzymes do not just have one common function but are actually performing three unique jobs in the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan M. Conner
- Department of Biochemistry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Christine E. Schaner Tooley
- Department of Biochemistry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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Bhattacharya I, Dey S. Emerging concepts on Leydig cell development in fetal and adult testis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 13:1086276. [PMID: 36686449 PMCID: PMC9851038 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1086276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Leydig cells (Lc) reside in the interstitial compartment of the testis and are the target of Luteinising hormone (LH) for Testosterone (T) production, thus critically regulates male fertility. Classical histological studies have identified two morphologically different populations of Lc during testicular development [fetal (FLc) and adult (ALc)]. Recent progress in ex vivo cell/organ culture, genome-wide analysis, genetically manipulated mouse models, lineage tracing, and single-cell RNA-seq experiments have revealed the diverse cellular origins with differential transcriptomic and distinct steroidogenic outputs of these populations. FLc originates from both coelomic epithelium and notch-active Nestin-positive perivascular cells located at the gonad-mesonephros borders, and get specified as Nr5a1 (previously known as Ad4BP/SF-1) expressing cells by embryonic age (E) 12.5 days in fetal mouse testes. These cells produce androstenedione (precursor of T, due to lack of HSD17β3 enzyme) and play critical a role in initial virilization and patterning of the male external genitalia. However, in neonatal testis, FLc undergoes massive regression/dedifferentiation and gradually gets replaced by T-producing ALc. Very recent studies suggest a small fraction (5-20%) of FLc still persists in adult testis. Both Nestin-positive perivascular cells and FLc are considered to be the progenitor populations for ALc. This minireview article summarizes the current understanding of Lc development in fetal and adult testes highlighting their common or diverse cellular (progenitor/stem) origins with respective functional significance in both rodents and primates. (227 words).
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, School of Biological Science, Central University of Kerala, Periye, Kerala, India
| | - Souvik Dey
- Manipal Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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Bhattacharya I, Dey S, Banerjee A. Revisiting the gonadotropic regulation of mammalian spermatogenesis: evolving lessons during the past decade. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1110572. [PMID: 37124741 PMCID: PMC10140312 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1110572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a multi-step process of male germ cell (Gc) division and differentiation which occurs in the seminiferous tubules of the testes under the regulation of gonadotropins - Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinising hormone (LH). It is a highly coordinated event regulated by the surrounding somatic testicular cells such as the Sertoli cells (Sc), Leydig cells (Lc), and Peritubular myoid cells (PTc). FSH targets Sc and supports the expansion and differentiation of pre-meiotic Gc, whereas, LH operates via Lc to produce Testosterone (T), the testicular androgen. T acts on all somatic cells e.g.- Lc, PTc and Sc, and promotes the blood-testis barrier (BTB) formation, completion of Gc meiosis, and spermiation. Studies with hypophysectomised or chemically ablated animal models and hypogonadal (hpg) mice supplemented with gonadotropins to genetically manipulated mouse models have revealed the selective and synergistic role(s) of hormones in regulating male fertility. We here have briefly summarized the present concept of hormonal control of spermatogenesis in rodents and primates. We also have highlighted some of the key critical questions yet to be answered in the field of male reproductive health which might have potential implications for infertility and contraceptive research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, School of Biological Science, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, Kerala, India
- *Correspondence: Arnab Banerjee, ; Indrashis Bhattacharya,
| | - Souvik Dey
- Manipal Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Arnab Banerjee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, Goa, India
- *Correspondence: Arnab Banerjee, ; Indrashis Bhattacharya,
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Lhb-/-Lhr-/- Double Mutant Mice Phenocopy Lhb-/- or Lhr-/- Single Mutants and Display Defects in Leydig Cells and Steroidogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415725. [PMID: 36555365 PMCID: PMC9779075 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415725] [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: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the mouse, two distinct populations of Leydig cells arise during testis development. Fetal Leydig cells arise from a stem cell population and produce T required for masculinization. It is debated whether they persist in the adult testis. A second adult Leydig stem cell population gives rise to progenitor-immature-mature adult type Leydig cells that produce T in response to LH to maintain spermatogenesis. In testis of adult null male mice lacking either only LH (Lhb-/-) or LHR (Lhr-/-), mature Leydig cells are absent but fetal Leydig cells persist. Thus, it is not clear whether other ligands signal via LHRs in Lhb null mice or LH signals via other receptors in the absence of LHR in Lhr null mice. Moreover, it is not clear whether truncated LHR isoforms generated from the same Lhr gene promoter encode functionally relevant LH receptors. To determine the in vivo roles of LH-LHR signaling pathway in the Leydig cell lineage, we generated double null mutant mice lacking both LH Ligand and all forms of LHR. Phenotypic analysis indicated testis morpho-histological characteristics are identical among double null and single mutants which all showed poorly developed interstitium with a reduction in Leydig cell number and absence of late stage spermatids. Gene expression analyses confirmed that the majority of the T biosynthesis pathway enzyme-encoding mRNAs expressed in Leydig cells were all suppressed. Expression of thrombospondin-2, a fetal Leydig cell marker gene was upregulated in single and double null mutants indicating that fetal Leydig cells originate and develop independent of LH-LHR signaling pathway in vivo. Serum and intratesticular T levels were similarly suppressed in single and double mutants. Consequently, expression of AR-regulated genes in Sertoli and germ cells were similarly affected in single and double mutants without any evidence of any additive effect in the combined absence of both LH and LHR. Our studies unequivocally provide genetic evidence that in the mouse testis, fetal Leydig cells do not require LH-LHR signaling pathway and a one-to-one LH ligand-LHR signaling pathway exists in vivo to regulate adult Leydig cell lineage and spermatogenesis.
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Quiarato Lozano AF, Marques Tavares B, Villela E Silva P, Franco de Barros JW, Kempinas WDG. Reproductive development of male rats exposed in utero to stress and/or sertraline. Toxicol Sci 2022; 190:189-203. [PMID: 36161332 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfac100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite increased prescription of sertraline during pregnancy, little is known about its action on reproductive development. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the impact that stress, associated or not with sertraline, causes on the reproductive development of male rats. Pregnant Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 16/group): CO - received filtered water; SE - received 20 mg/kg sertraline; ST - submitted to restraint stress and received filtered water; SS - submitted to restraint stress and received sertraline. The treatment was carried out from gestational days (GD) 13 to 20. The animals were euthanized on GD 20 (n = 8/group), postnatal day (PND) 45 (n = 8/group) and PND 110 (n = 8/group). The testes and epididymis were analyzed histologically, and immunohistochemistry was performed on the testes by proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and the Wilms tumor protein (Wt1). Sperm quality was also analyzed on PND 110. The evolution of body weight, anogenital distance (AGD), and puberty installation day were also verified. Statistical analysis: Two-way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis test (p ≤ 0.05). Fetal testes presented a large number of acidophilic cells in the sertraline-exposed groups. The SS group also showed a decrease in the nuclear volume of Leydig cells. This same group showed low expression of PCNA and Wt1, decreased weight of the testes and epididymis, lower AGD, and delayed puberty installation. The adulthood groups exposed to sertraline presented alterations in sperm morphology and motility. The results demonstrated that prenatal exposure to sertraline compromises the development of the rat reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Flávia Quiarato Lozano
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Bruna Marques Tavares
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Villela E Silva
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Jorge Willian Franco de Barros
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Wilma De Grava Kempinas
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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Role of p38 MAPK Signalling in Testis Development and Male Fertility. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:6891897. [PMID: 36092154 PMCID: PMC9453003 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6891897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The testis is an important male reproductive organ, which ensures reproductive function via the secretion of testosterone and the generation of spermatozoa. Testis development begins in the embryonic period, continues after birth, and generally reaches functional maturation at puberty. The stress-activated kinase, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), regulates multiple cell processes including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and cellular stress responses. p38 MAPK signalling plays a crucial role in testis development by regulating spermatogenesis, the fate determination of pre-Sertoli, and primordial germ cells during embryogenesis, the proliferation of testicular cells in the postnatal period, and the functions of mature Sertoli and Leydig cells. In addition, p38 MAPK signalling is involved in decreased male fertility when exposed to various harmful stimuli. This review will describe in detail the biological functions of p38 MAPK signalling in testis development and male reproduction, together with its pathological role in male infertility.
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Planinić A, Marić T, Bojanac AK, Ježek D. Reinke crystals: Hallmarks of adult Leydig cells in humans. Andrology 2022; 10:1107-1120. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.13201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Planinić
- Department of Histology and Embryology University of Zagreb School of Medicine
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine University of Zagreb School of Medicine
| | - Tihana Marić
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine University of Zagreb School of Medicine
- Department of Medical Biology University of Zagreb School of Medicine
| | - Ana Katušić Bojanac
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine University of Zagreb School of Medicine
- Department of Medical Biology University of Zagreb School of Medicine
| | - Davor Ježek
- Department of Histology and Embryology University of Zagreb School of Medicine
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine University of Zagreb School of Medicine
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Adamczewska D, Słowikowska-Hilczer J, Walczak-Jędrzejowska R. The Fate of Leydig Cells in Men with Spermatogenic Failure. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:570. [PMID: 35455061 PMCID: PMC9028943 DOI: 10.3390/life12040570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The steroidogenic cells in the testicle, Leydig cells, located in the interstitial compartment, play a vital role in male reproductive tract development, maintenance of proper spermatogenesis, and overall male reproductive function. Therefore, their dysfunction can lead to all sorts of testicular pathologies. Spermatogenesis failure, manifested as azoospermia, is often associated with defective Leydig cell activity. Spermatogenic failure is the most severe form of male infertility, caused by disorders of the testicular parenchyma or testicular hormone imbalance. This review covers current progress in knowledge on Leydig cells origin, structure, and function, and focuses on recent advances in understanding how Leydig cells contribute to the impairment of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Renata Walczak-Jędrzejowska
- Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, 92-213 Lodz, Poland; (D.A.); (J.S.-H.)
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Yang H, Wan Z, Jin Y, Wang F, Zhang Y. SMAD2 regulates testicular development and testosterone synthesis in Hu sheep. Theriogenology 2021; 174:139-148. [PMID: 34454319 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The SMAD protein family plays crucial roles in reproduction as a downstream target genes of the TGFβ signaling pathway. Many studies have focused on the expression change exploration of SMADs during testicular development and investigation of SMAD2 in hormone synthesis regulation. However, little attention has been given to determining the regulatory mechanism of SMADs in sheep testes. In the present study, we first detected SMAD mRNA expression levels in three-month-old (3 M), six-month-old (6 M), nine-month-old (9 M) and two-year-old (2Y) sheep testes. Different SMADs showed various expression patterns. In addition, the subcellular localization of SMAD2 was also analyzed, and Sertoli cells (SCs), Leydig cells (LCs) and spermatogonia presented mainly positive staining. Protein and nucleic acid sequence alignment showed that the SMAD2 gene was extremely homologous between various species. SMAD2 interference RNA was transfected into sheep LCs to examine the cell proliferation and hormone levels. The testosterone level was significantly decreased, and cell proliferation efficiency presented the same trend (P < 0.05). Moreover, SMAD2 downregulation promoted cell apoptosis (P < 0.05) and changed the cell cycle. In total, our results revealed that downregulating the expression of SMAD2 can effectively inhibit testosterone levels by affecting cell proliferation and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Yang
- Institute of Sheep and Goat Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Zhen Wan
- Institute of Sheep and Goat Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yanshan Jin
- Institute of Sheep and Goat Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Institute of Sheep and Goat Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yanli Zhang
- Institute of Sheep and Goat Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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Abstract
Organoids are 3-dimensional (3D) structures grown in vitro that emulate the cytoarchitecture and functions of true organs. Therefore, testicular organoids arise as an important model for research on male reproductive biology. These organoids can be generated from different sources of testicular cells, but most studies to date have used immature primary cells for this purpose. The complexity of the mammalian testicular cytoarchitecture and regulation poses a challenge for working with testicular organoids, because, ideally, these 3D models should mimic the organization observed in vivo. In this review, we explore the characteristics of the most important cell types present in the testicular organoid models reported to date and discuss how different factors influence the regulation of these cells inside the organoids and their outcomes. Factors such as the developmental or maturational stage of the Sertoli cells, for example, influence organoid generation and structure, which affect the use of these 3D models for research. Spermatogonial stem cells have been a focus recently, especially in regard to male fertility preservation. The regulation of the spermatogonial stem cell niche inside testicular organoids is discussed in the present review, as this research area may be positively affected by recent progress in organoid generation and tissue engineering. Therefore, the testicular organoid approach is a very promising model for male reproductive biology research, but more studies and improvements are necessary to achieve its full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia de Lima e Martins Lara
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sadman Sakib
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ina Dobrinski
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Correspondence: Ina Dobrinski, DrMedVet, MVSc, PhD, Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 404 HMRB, 3300 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada.
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Li Y, Ma F, Li Z, Yu Y, Yan H, Tahir A, Zheng W, Li X, Huang T, Ge RS. Exposure to 4-bromodiphenyl ether during pregnancy blocks testis development in male rat fetuses. Toxicol Lett 2021; 342:38-49. [PMID: 33582287 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2021.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
4-Bromodiphenyl ether (BDE3) is a photodegradation product of higher polybrominated diphenyl ether flame retardants and is known as an endocrine disruptor. However, it is unclear whether and how BDE3 affects the development of fetal testes. This study aimed to investigate the effect of in utero exposure to BDE3 on fetal testicular development in rats. From gestational day (GD) 12-21, BDE3 (0, 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) was daily gavaged to female pregnant Sprague Dawley rats. BDE3 significantly reduced serum testosterone levels of male pups starting at 50 mg/kg. BDE3 reduced fetal Leydig cell number at a dose of 200 mg/kg without affecting fetal Leydig cell cluster frequency and Sertoli cell number. In addition, BDE3 down-regulated the expression of fetal Leydig cell genes (Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, Cyp17a1, and Hsd17b3) and their proteins at 100 and/or 200 mg/kg. RNA-seq analysis showed that genes responsive to cAMP (Ass1, Gpd1, Rpl13a) were down-regulated and hypoxia-related genes (Egln3 and P4ha1) were up-regulated at 200 mg/kg. In utero exposure to BDE3 can promote autophagy and apoptosis of fetal Leydig cells via increasing the levels of Beclin1, LC3-II, BAX, and by decreasing the levels of p62 and BCL2. In conclusion, in utero exposure to BDE3 blocks the development of fetal rat testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Feifei Ma
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Zengqiang Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Yige Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Haoni Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Anam Tahir
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Wenwen Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Xiaoheng Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Tongliang Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
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14
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Corcioni B, Renzulli M, Marasco G, Baronio F, Gambineri A, Ricciardi D, Ortolano R, Farina D, Gaudiano C, Cassio A, Pagotto U, Golfieri R. Prevalence and ultrasound patterns of testicular adrenal rest tumors in adults with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Transl Androl Urol 2021; 10:562-573. [PMID: 33718059 PMCID: PMC7947447 DOI: 10.21037/tau-20-998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Testicular adrenal rest tumors (TARTs) are benign neoplasms affecting patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). The prevalence of TART in adult patients with CAH is not well known. Ultrasonography (US) is the main tool for diagnosing TART and the role of contrast-enhanced US (CEUS) is never investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the TART prevalence in adults with CAH, by stratifying patients according to disease phenotype and assessing the diagnostic performance of US, color Doppler (CD) US and CEUS. Methods Male patients >16 years old with certain diagnosis of CAH who underwent US for TARTs, between December 2015 and September 2019 were prospectively enrolled. The control group included patients without CAH affected by testicular lesions at US other than TARTs. Results TARTs were identified in 16 of 52 patients (31%), of whom 15 (93.8%) displayed the salt-wasting (SW) form (P<0.001). The prevalence of TARTs in patients with the SW form was 54%. One patient with the non-classic (NC) form (6%) showed TART (likely the first documented case). The mean age of patients upon detection of TARTs was significantly younger compared with the control group (P<0.001); moreover, TARTs were bilateral in 15/16 patients (93.8%; P<0.001) and the largest lesion was more frequent in the medium third of testis in the TART group (87.5%), statistically different from the control group (P=0.013). Conclusions TARTs almost exclusively affected patients with the SW form of CAH. Age at diagnosis and bilateralism are useful factors for achieving a correct diagnosis of TARTs in CAH adult patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beniamino Corcioni
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Matteo Renzulli
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Marasco
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Baronio
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gambineri
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Domenico Ricciardi
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Rita Ortolano
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Davide Farina
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Caterina Gaudiano
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Cassio
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Uberto Pagotto
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Rita Golfieri
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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15
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Santos AC, Conley AJ, Oliveira MF, Assis Neto AC. Steroidogenesis during prenatal testicular development in Spix's cavy Galea spixii. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 33:392-400. [PMID: 33685580 DOI: 10.1071/rd20293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Spix's cavy is a potentially good experimental model for research on reproductive biology and sexual development. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the ontogeny of the steroidogenic enzymes involved in testicular androgen synthesis during prenatal development. Testes were investigated on Days 25, 30, 40 and >50 of gestation. Immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting were used to establish the site and relative amount of androgenic enzymes, including 5α-reductase, cytosolic 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSDI) and mitochondrial microsomal 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSDII), throughout prenatal development. The testicular parenchyma began to organise on Day 25 of gestation, with the development of recognisable testicular cords. The mesonephros was established after Day 25 of gestation and the ducts differentiated to form the epididymis, as testicular cords were beginning to proliferate and the interstitium to organise by Day 30 of gestation, continuing thereafter. The androgen-synthesising enzymes 5α-reductase, 17β-HSDI and 3β-HSDII were evident in Leydig cells as they differentiated at all subsequent gestational ages studied. In addition, immunoblotting showed an increase in immunoreactivity for the enzymes at Days 30 and 40 of gestation (P<0.05) and a decrease at Day 50 of gestation (P<0.05). It is concluded that the increase in androgenic enzymes in Leydig cells coincides with the functional differentiation of the testes, and with the stabilisation and differentiation of mesonephric ducts forming the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Santos
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Sao Paulo. Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando de Marques Paiva, 87; ZC 05508 270; São Paulo - Brazil
| | - A J Conley
- Population Health & Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 3223 VM3B, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - M F Oliveira
- Department of Animal Science, Federal Rural University of Semiarid. Av. Francisco Mota, 572, 59625 900, Mossoro, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - A C Assis Neto
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Sao Paulo. Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando de Marques Paiva, 87; ZC 05508 270; São Paulo - Brazil; and Corresponding author.
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16
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Nagahama Y, Chakraborty T, Paul-Prasanth B, Ohta K, Nakamura M. Sex determination, gonadal sex differentiation, and plasticity in vertebrate species. Physiol Rev 2020; 101:1237-1308. [PMID: 33180655 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00044.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A diverse array of sex determination (SD) mechanisms, encompassing environmental to genetic, have been found to exist among vertebrates, covering a spectrum from fixed SD mechanisms (mammals) to functional sex change in fishes (sequential hermaphroditic fishes). A major landmark in vertebrate SD was the discovery of the SRY gene in 1990. Since that time, many attempts to clone an SRY ortholog from nonmammalian vertebrates remained unsuccessful, until 2002, when DMY/dmrt1by was discovered as the SD gene of a small fish, medaka. Surprisingly, however, DMY/dmrt1by was found in only 2 species among more than 20 species of medaka, suggesting a large diversity of SD genes among vertebrates. Considerable progress has been made over the last 3 decades, such that it is now possible to formulate reasonable paradigms of how SD and gonadal sex differentiation may work in some model vertebrate species. This review outlines our current understanding of vertebrate SD and gonadal sex differentiation, with a focus on the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved. An impressive number of genes and factors have been discovered that play important roles in testicular and ovarian differentiation. An antagonism between the male and female pathway genes exists in gonads during both sex differentiation and, surprisingly, even as adults, suggesting that, in addition to sex-changing fishes, gonochoristic vertebrates including mice maintain some degree of gonadal sexual plasticity into adulthood. Importantly, a review of various SD mechanisms among vertebrates suggests that this is the ideal biological event that can make us understand the evolutionary conundrums underlying speciation and species diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitaka Nagahama
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan.,South Ehime Fisheries Research Center, Ehime University, Ainan, Japan.,Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, Kanazawa University, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Tapas Chakraborty
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan.,South Ehime Fisheries Research Center, Ehime University, Ainan, Japan.,Laboratory of Marine Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukouka, Japan.,Karatsu Satellite of Aqua-Bioresource Innovation Center, Kyushu University, Karatsu, Japan
| | - Bindhu Paul-Prasanth
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan.,Centre for Nanosciences and Molecular Medicine, Amrita Vishwa Vidapeetham, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Kohei Ohta
- Laboratory of Marine Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukouka, Japan
| | - Masaru Nakamura
- Sesoko Station, Tropical Biosphere Research Center, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan.,Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, Okinawa, Japan
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17
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Sato Y, Kuriwaki R, Hagino S, Shimazaki M, Sambuu R, Hirata M, Tanihara F, Takagi M, Taniguchi M, Otoi T. Abnormal functions of Leydig cells in crossbred cattle-yak showing infertility. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:209-216. [PMID: 31858644 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In Mongolia, yak (Bos grunniens) are able to live in alpine areas and their products greatly influence the lives of the local people. Increased vigour in hybridized yak and cattle can offer benefits for livestock farmers. However, male hybrids show reproductive defects resulting from spermatogenesis arrest, affecting the conservation and maintenance of dominant traits in the next generation. The underlying mechanisms involved in hybrid cattle-yak infertility have recently been investigated; however, the genetic cause is still unclear. Androgens and androgen receptor (AR) signalling are required for spermatogenesis. We, therefore, evaluated the expression of AR, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3βHSD) and 5α-reductase 2 (SRD5A2) in Leydig cells to investigate their function in cattle-yak spermatogenesis. Testicular tissues from yaks (1-3 years old) and hybrids (F1-F3, 2 years old) were collected and subjected to immunohistochemistry and image analyses to investigate the expression of each parameter in the Leydig cells. After maturation at 2 years, the expression levels of AR increased and the levels of 3βHSD decreased, but the SRD5A2 levels remained constant in yak. However, the cattle-yak hybrid F2 showed immature testicular development and significantly different expression levels of AR and 3βHSD compared with mature yak. These results suggest that the decreased expression of AR and increased expression of 3βHSD in the Leydig cells of cattle-yak hybrid testes may represent one of the causes of infertility. Our study might help in solving the problem of infertility in crossbreeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Sato
- Department of Medical Engineering, Faculty of Allied Sciences, University of East Asia, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Ryota Kuriwaki
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Shiki Hagino
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Megumi Shimazaki
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Rentsenkhand Sambuu
- Institute for Extension of Agricultural Advanced Technology, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Maki Hirata
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Fuminori Tanihara
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Takagi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Masayasu Taniguchi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Takeshige Otoi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
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18
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Hyuga T, Alcantara M, Kajioka D, Haraguchi R, Suzuki K, Miyagawa S, Kojima Y, Hayashi Y, Yamada G. Hedgehog Signaling for Urogenital Organogenesis and Prostate Cancer: An Implication for the Epithelial-Mesenchyme Interaction (EMI). Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010058. [PMID: 31861793 PMCID: PMC6982176 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is an essential growth factor signaling pathway especially in the regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal interactions (EMI) during the development of the urogenital organs such as the bladder and the external genitalia (EXG). The Hh ligands are often expressed in the epithelia, affecting the surrounding mesenchyme, and thus constituting a form of paracrine signaling. The development of the urogenital organ, therefore, provides an intriguing opportunity to study EMI and its relationship with other pathways, such as hormonal signaling. Cellular interactions of prostate cancer (PCa) with its neighboring tissue is also noteworthy. The local microenvironment, including the bone metastatic site, can release cellular signals which can affect the malignant tumors, and vice versa. Thus, it is necessary to compare possible similarities and divergences in Hh signaling functions and its interaction with other local growth factors, such as BMP (bone morphogenetic protein) between organogenesis and tumorigenesis. Additionally, this review will discuss two pertinent research aspects of Hh signaling: (1) the potential signaling crosstalk between Hh and androgen signaling; and (2) the effect of signaling between the epithelia and the mesenchyme on the status of the basement membrane with extracellular matrix structures located on the epithelial-mesenchymal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taiju Hyuga
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Kimiidera 811-1, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan; (T.H.); (M.A.); (D.K.); (K.S.)
| | - Mellissa Alcantara
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Kimiidera 811-1, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan; (T.H.); (M.A.); (D.K.); (K.S.)
| | - Daiki Kajioka
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Kimiidera 811-1, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan; (T.H.); (M.A.); (D.K.); (K.S.)
| | - Ryuma Haraguchi
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Shitsukawa, Toon City, Ehime 791-0295, Japan;
| | - Kentaro Suzuki
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Kimiidera 811-1, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan; (T.H.); (M.A.); (D.K.); (K.S.)
| | - Shinichi Miyagawa
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo 125-8585, Japan;
| | - Yoshiyuki Kojima
- Department of Urology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, 1 Hikarigaoka, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan;
| | - Yutaro Hayashi
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Nagoya City University, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan;
| | - Gen Yamada
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Kimiidera 811-1, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan; (T.H.); (M.A.); (D.K.); (K.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-73-441-0849; Fax: +81-73-499-5026
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19
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Neirijnck Y, Papaioannou MD, Nef S. The Insulin/IGF System in Mammalian Sexual Development and Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184440. [PMID: 31505893 PMCID: PMC6770468 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistent research over the past few decades has clearly established that the insulin-like family of growth factors, which is composed of insulin and insulin-like growth factors 1 (IGF1) and 2 (IGF2), plays essential roles in sexual development and reproduction of both males and females. Within the male and female reproductive organs, ligands of the family act in an autocrine/paracrine manner, in order to guide different aspects of gonadogenesis, sex determination, sex-specific development or reproductive performance. Although our knowledge has greatly improved over the last years, there are still several facets that remain to be deciphered. In this review, we first briefly outline the principles of sexual development and insulin/IGF signaling, and then present our current knowledge, both in rodents and humans, about the involvement of insulin/IGFs in sexual development and reproductive functions. We conclude by highlighting some interesting remarks and delineating certain unanswered questions that need to be addressed in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmine Neirijnck
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Marilena D Papaioannou
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
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20
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Bhattacharya I, Sen Sharma S, Majumdar SS. Pubertal orchestration of hormones and testis in primates. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:1505-1530. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology & BiotechnologyHNB Garhwal University, Srinagar CampusSrinagar India
- Cellular Endocrinology LabNational Institute of ImmunologyNew Delhi India
| | - Souvik Sen Sharma
- Cellular Endocrinology LabNational Institute of ImmunologyNew Delhi India
| | - Subeer S. Majumdar
- Cellular Endocrinology LabNational Institute of ImmunologyNew Delhi India
- Gene and Protein Engineering LabNational Institute of Animal BiotechnologyHyderabad India
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21
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Engels M, Span PN, van Herwaarden AE, Sweep FCGJ, Stikkelbroeck NMML, Claahsen-van der Grinten HL. Testicular Adrenal Rest Tumors: Current Insights on Prevalence, Characteristics, Origin, and Treatment. Endocr Rev 2019; 40:973-987. [PMID: 30882882 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This review provides the reader with current insights on testicular adrenal rest tumors (TARTs), a complication in male patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). In recent studies, an overall TART prevalence of 40% (range, 14% to 89%) in classic patients with CAH is found. Reported differences are mainly caused by the method of detection and the selected patient population. Biochemically, histologically, and molecularly, TARTs exhibit particular adrenal characteristics and were therefore thought to originate from aberrant adrenal cells. More recently, TARTs have been found to also exhibit testicular characteristics. This has led to the hypothesis of pluripotent cells as the origin of TARTs. High concentrations of ACTH could cause hyperplasia of these pluripotent cells, as TARTs appear to be associated with poor hormonal control with concomitant elevated ACTH. Unfortunately, as yet there are no methods to prevent the development of TARTs, nor are there guidelines to treat patients with TARTs. Intensified glucocorticoid treatment could improve fertility status in some cases, although studies report contradicting results. TARTs can also lead to irreversible testicular damage, and therefore semen cryopreservation could be offered to patients with TARTs. Further research should focus on the etiology and pharmacological treatment to prevent TART development or to treat TARTs and improve the fertility status of patients with TARTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Engels
- Department of Pediatrics, Amalia Children's Hospital, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Paul N Span
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiotherapy and OncoImmunology Laboratory, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Antonius E van Herwaarden
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Fred C G J Sweep
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
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22
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Zirkin BR, Papadopoulos V. Leydig cells: formation, function, and regulation. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:101-111. [PMID: 29566165 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 302] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Accepted: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Herein we summarize important discoveries made over many years about Leydig cell function and regulation. Fetal Leydig cells produce the high levels of androgen (testosterone or androstenedione, depending upon the species) required for differentiation of male genitalia and brain masculinization. Androgen production declines with loss of these cells, reaching a nadir at postpartum. Testosterone then gradually increases to high levels with adult Leydig cell development from stem cells. In the adult, luteinizing hormone (LH) binding to Leydig cell LH receptors stimulates cAMP production, increasing the rate of cholesterol translocation into the mitochondria. Cholesterol is metabolized to pregnenolone by the CYP11A1 enzyme at the inner mitochondrial membrane, and pregnenolone to testosterone by mitochondria and smooth endoplasmic reticulum enzymes. Cholesterol translocation to the inner mitochondrial membrane is mediated by a protein complex formed at mitochondrial contact sites that consists of the cholesterol binding translocator protein, voltage dependent anion channel, and other mitochondrial and cytosolic proteins. Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein acts at this complex to enhance cholesterol movement across the membranes and thus increase testosterone formation. The 14-3-3γ and ε adaptor proteins serve as negative regulators of steroidogenesis, controlling the maximal amount of steroid formed. Decline in testosterone production occurs in many aging and young men, resulting in metabolic and quality-of-life changes. Testosterone replacement therapy is widely used to elevate serum testosterone levels in hypogonadal men. With knowledge gained of the mechanisms involved in testosterone formation, it is also conceivable to use pharmacological means to increase serum testosterone by Leydig cell stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry R Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Vassilios Papadopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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23
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Regulation of Leydig cell steroidogenesis: intriguing network of signaling pathways and mitochondrial signalosome. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2019.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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24
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Lu M, Zhang R, Yu T, Wang L, Liu S, Cai R, Guo X, Jia Y, Wang A, Jin Y, Lin P. CREBZF regulates testosterone production in mouse Leydig cells. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:22819-22832. [PMID: 31124138 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
CREBZF, including the two isoforms SMILE (long isoform of CREBZF) and Zhangfei (short isoform of CREBZF), has been identified as a novel transcriptional coregulator of a variety of nuclear receptors. Our previous studies found that SMILE is expressed in the mouse uterine luminal and glandular epithelium and is upregulated by estrogen. In the present study, CREBZF was age-dependently and -specifically expressed in mouse interstitial Leydig cells during sexual maturation. The expression pattern of CREBZF exhibited an age-related increase, and SMILE was the dominant isoform in the mouse testis. Although hCG did not affect CREBZF expression, CREBZF silencing significantly inhibited hCG-stimulated testosterone production in primary Leydig cells and MLTC-1 cells. Meanwhile, the serum concentration of testosterone was significantly decreased after microinjection of lentiviral-mediated shRNA-CREBZF into the mature mouse testis. In addition, CREBZF silencing markedly decreased P450c17, 17β-HSD, and 3β-HSD expression following hCG stimulation in primary Leydig cells, and this inhibitory effect was obviously reversed by overexpression of CREBZF. Furthermore, CREBZF significantly upregulated the mRNA levels of Nr4a1 and Nr5a1, which are the essential orphan nuclear receptors for steroidogenic gene expression. Together our data indicate that CREBZF promotes hCG-induced testosterone production in mouse Leydig cells by affecting Nr4a1 and Nr5a1 expression levels and subsequently increasing the expression of steroidogenic genes such as 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD, and P450c17, suggesting a potential important role of CREBZF in testicular testosterone synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minjie Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ruixue Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tong Yu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lei Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shouqin Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Rui Cai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xinyan Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yanni Jia
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Aihua Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yaping Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Pengfei Lin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
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25
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Yokoyama C, Chigi Y, Baba T, Ohshitanai A, Harada Y, Takahashi F, Morohashi KI. Three populations of adult Leydig cells in mouse testes revealed by a novel mouse HSD3B1-specific rat monoclonal antibody. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 511:916-920. [PMID: 30851938 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.02.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Leydig cells play a pivotal function in the synthesis of a male sex steroid, testosterone. The ability of the steroid production is dependent on the expression of the steroidogenic genes, such as HSD3B (3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ5- Δ4 isomerase). It has been established that two different types of Leydig cells, fetal Leydig cells (FLCs) and adult Leydig cells (ALCs), are developed in mammalian testes. FLCs and ALCs are characterized by different sets of marker gene expression. In the case of mouse Leydig cells, Hsd3b1 (Hsd3b type 1) is expressed both in FLCs and ALCs whereas Hsd3b6 (Hsd3b type 6) is expressed in ALCs but not in FLCs. However, because the antibodies established so far for HSD3B were unable to distinguish between the HSD3B1 and HSD3B6 isoforms, it remained unclear whether both of them are expressed in every ALC. Therefore, in the present study, we generated a rat monoclonal antibody specific for mouse HSD3B1. Intriguingly, this monoclonal antibody together with an antibody specific for HSD3B6 identified three populations of ALCs based on the expression levels of these HSD3Bs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chikako Yokoyama
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Yamagata University, Yonezawa, Yamagata, 992-8510, Japan.
| | - Yuta Chigi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan; Division of Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takashi Baba
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan; Division of Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Atsushi Ohshitanai
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Yamagata University, Yonezawa, Yamagata, 992-8510, Japan
| | - Yumi Harada
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Yamagata University, Yonezawa, Yamagata, 992-8510, Japan
| | - Fumiya Takahashi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan; Division of Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichirou Morohashi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan; Division of Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
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26
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Lara NDLEM, Costa GMJ, Avelar GF, Guimarães DA, França LR. Postnatal testis development in the collared peccary (Tayassu tajacu), with emphasis on spermatogonial stem cells markers and niche. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 273:98-107. [PMID: 29763586 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Collared peccaries (Tayassu tajacu) present a unique testis cytoarchitecture, where Leydig cells (LC) are mainly located in cords around the seminiferous tubules (ST) lobes. This peculiar arrangement is very useful to better investigate and understand the role of LC in spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) biology and niche. Recent studies from our laboratory using adult peccaries have shown that the undifferentiated type A spermatogonia (Aund or SSCs) are preferentially located in ST regions adjacent to the intertubular compartment without LC. Following these studies, our aims were to investigate the collared peccary postnatal testis development, from birth to adulthood, with emphasis on the establishment of LC cytoarchitecture and the SSCs niche. Our findings demonstrated that the unique LC cytoarchitecture is already present in the neonate peccary's testis, indicating that this arrangement is established during fetal development. Based on the most advanced germ cell type present at each time period evaluated, puberty (the first sperm release in the ST lumen) in this species was reached at around one year of age, being preceded by high levels of estradiol and testosterone and the end of Sertoli cell proliferation. Almost all gonocytes and SSCs expressed Nanos1, Nanos2 and GFRA1. The analysis of SSCs preferential location indicated that the establishment of SSCs niche is coincident with the occurrence of puberty. Taken together, our findings reinforced and extended the importance of the collared peccary as an animal model to investigate testis function in mammals, particularly the aspects related to testis organogenesis and the SSCs biology and niche.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guilherme Mattos Jardim Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Gleide Fernandes Avelar
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Diva Anelie Guimarães
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Luiz Renato França
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; National Institute for Amazonian Research, Manaus, AM, Brazil.
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27
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Gregoire EP, Stevant I, Chassot AA, Martin L, Lachambre S, Mondin M, de Rooij DG, Nef S, Chaboissier MC. NRG1 signalling regulates the establishment of Sertoli cell stock in the mouse testis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 478:17-31. [PMID: 30040984 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Revised: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Testis differentiation requires high levels of proliferation of progenitor cells that give rise to two cell lineages forming the testis, the Sertoli and the Leydig cells. Hence defective cell cycling leads to testicular dysgenesis that has profound effects on androgen production and fertility. The growth factor NRG1 has been implicated in adult Leydig cell proliferation, but a potential function in the fetal testis has not been analysed to date. Here we show that Nrg1 and its receptors ErbB2/3 are already expressed in early gonadal development. Using tissue-specific deletion, we further demonstrate that Nrg1 is required in a dose-dependent manner to induce proliferation of Sertoli progenitor cells and then differentiated Sertoli cells. As a result of reduced numbers of Sertoli cells, Nrg1 knockout mice display a delay in testis differentiation and defects in sex cord partitioning. Taken together Nrg1 signalling is essential for the establishment of the stock of Sertoli cells and thus required to prevent testicular hypoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Isabelle Stevant
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Luc Martin
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, France
| | | | | | - Dirk G de Rooij
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584 CH, the Netherlands
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Switzerland
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28
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Shima Y, Miyabayashi K, Sato T, Suyama M, Ohkawa Y, Doi M, Okamura H, Suzuki K. Fetal Leydig cells dedifferentiate and serve as adult Leydig stem cells. Development 2018; 145:145/23/dev169136. [DOI: 10.1242/dev.169136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Previous studies have established that fetal Leydig cells (FLCs) and adult Leydig cells (ALCs) show distinct functional characteristics. However, the lineage relationship between FLCs and ALCs has not been clarified yet. Here, we reveal that a subset of FLCs dedifferentiate at fetal stages to give rise to ALCs at the pubertal stage. Moreover, the dedifferentiated cells contribute to the peritubular myoid cell and vascular pericyte populations in the neonatal testis, and these non-steroidogenic cells serve as potential ALC stem cells. We generated FLC lineage-specific Nr5a1 (Ad4BP/SF-1) gene-disrupted mice and mice lacking the fetal Leydig enhancer (FLE) of the Nr5a1 gene. Phenotypes of these mice support the conclusion that most of the ALCs arise from dedifferentiated FLCs, and that the FLE of the Nr5a1 gene is essential for both initial FLC differentiation and pubertal ALC redifferentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuichi Shima
- Department of Anatomy, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama 701-0192, Japan
| | - Kanako Miyabayashi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Sato
- Department of Systems Life Sciences, Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences and Division of Bioinformatics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
- AMED-CREST, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, Fukuoka
| | - Mikita Suyama
- Department of Systems Life Sciences, Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences and Division of Bioinformatics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
- AMED-CREST, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, Fukuoka
| | - Yasuyuki Ohkawa
- AMED-CREST, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, Fukuoka
- Department of Systems Life Sciences, Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences and Research Center for Transomics Medicine, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Masao Doi
- Department of Systems Biology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Okamura
- Department of Systems Biology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Kentaro Suzuki
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University (WMU), Kimiidera, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan
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29
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Li Y, Kobayashi K, Murayama K, Kawahara K, Shima Y, Suzuki A, Tani K, Takahashi A. FEAT enhances INSL3 expression in testicular Leydig cells. Genes Cells 2018; 23:952-962. [PMID: 30178547 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.12644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
FEAT, the protein encoded by methyltransferase-like 13 (METTL13), is aberrantly upregulated in most human cancers and potently drives tumorigenesis in vivo; however, its role in normal tissues remains elusive. Immunoblotting has displayed weak FEAT expression in normal human tissues, including the testis. Here, we found that FEAT is expressed in fetal and adult Leydig cells in the testis. FEAT knockdown using siRNA increased primary cilia formation in MA-10 Leydig tumor cells, accompanied by enhanced 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation. Immunofluorescence analyses of FEAT-silenced MA-10 cells showed diminished insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) expression. A male Mettl13+/- mouse developed bilateral intraabdominal cryptorchidism, suggesting defective INSL3 production by fetal Leydig cells. Leydig cells from the mouse showed markedly decreased INSL3 protein by immunohistochemistry. Together, these results suggest that FEAT facilitates the INSL3 production in testicular Leydig cells that is essential for transabdominal testis migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Division of Molecular and Clinical Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.,Research Institute of Health and Welfare, Kibi International University, Takahashi, Okayama, Japan
| | - Kyosuke Kobayashi
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kosho Murayama
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kohichi Kawahara
- Division of Cancer Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yuichi Shima
- Department of Anatomy, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki, Japan
| | - Akira Suzuki
- Division of Cancer Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.,Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Kenzaburo Tani
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.,Project Division of ALA Advanced Medical Research, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Takahashi
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Division of Molecular and Clinical Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.,Research Institute of Health and Welfare, Kibi International University, Takahashi, Okayama, Japan.,Division of Translational Cancer Research, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.,Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Science and Social Welfare, Kibi International University, Takahashi, Okayama, Japan
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30
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Inoue M, Baba T, Morohashi KI. Recent progress in understanding the mechanisms of Leydig cell differentiation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 468:39-46. [PMID: 29309805 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Revised: 12/25/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Leydig cells in fetal and adult testes play pivotal roles in eliciting male characteristics by producing androgen. Although numerous studies of Leydig cells have been performed, the mechanisms for differentiation of the two cell types (fetal Leydig and adult Leydig cells), their developmental and functional relationship, and their differential characteristics remain largely unclear. Based on recent technical progress in genome-wide analysis and in vitro investigation, novel and fascinating observations concerning the issues above have been obtained. Focusing on fetal and adult Leydig cells, this review summarizes the recent progress that has advanced our understanding of the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miki Inoue
- Division of Molecular Life Sciences, Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takashi Baba
- Division of Molecular Life Sciences, Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichirou Morohashi
- Division of Molecular Life Sciences, Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan.
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31
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Nef S, Wilhelm D. The impact of new technologies in our understanding of testis formation and function. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 468:1-2. [PMID: 29807571 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dagmar Wilhelm
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
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32
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Fabbri-Scallet H, de Mello MP, Guerra-Júnior G, Maciel-Guerra AT, de Andrade JGR, de Queiroz CMC, Monlleó IL, Struve D, Hiort O, Werner R. Functional characterization of five NR5A1
gene mutations found in patients with 46,XY disorders of sex development. Hum Mutat 2017; 39:114-123. [DOI: 10.1002/humu.23353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Fabbri-Scallet
- Center for Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering - CBMEG; State University of Campinas; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Maricilda Palandi de Mello
- Center for Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering - CBMEG; State University of Campinas; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Gil Guerra-Júnior
- Department of Pediatrics; Faculty of Medical Sciences; State University of Campinas; São Paulo Brazil
- Interdisciplinary Group for the Study of Sex Determination and Differentiation - GIEDDS; State University of Campinas; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Andréa Trevas Maciel-Guerra
- Interdisciplinary Group for the Study of Sex Determination and Differentiation - GIEDDS; State University of Campinas; São Paulo Brazil
- Department of Medical Genetics; Faculty of Medical Sciences; State University of Campinas; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Juliana Gabriel Ribeiro de Andrade
- Interdisciplinary Group for the Study of Sex Determination and Differentiation - GIEDDS; State University of Campinas; São Paulo Brazil
- Department of Medical Genetics; Faculty of Medical Sciences; State University of Campinas; São Paulo Brazil
| | | | - Isabella Lopes Monlleó
- Clinical Genetics Service; Faculty of Medicine; Federal University of Alagoas; Maceió Alagoas Brazil
| | - Dagmar Struve
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine; Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes; Center of Brain; Behavior and Metabolism; University of Luebeck; Luebeck Germany
| | - Olaf Hiort
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine; Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes; Center of Brain; Behavior and Metabolism; University of Luebeck; Luebeck Germany
| | - Ralf Werner
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine; Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes; Center of Brain; Behavior and Metabolism; University of Luebeck; Luebeck Germany
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33
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Penny GM, Cochran RB, Pihlajoki M, Kyrönlahti A, Schrade A, Häkkinen M, Toppari J, Heikinheimo M, Wilson DB. Probing GATA factor function in mouse Leydig cells via testicular injection of adenoviral vectors. Reproduction 2017; 154:455-467. [PMID: 28710293 PMCID: PMC5589507 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Revised: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Testicular Leydig cells produce androgens essential for proper male reproductive development and fertility. Here, we describe a new Leydig cell ablation model based on Cre/Lox recombination of mouse Gata4 and Gata6, two genes implicated in the transcriptional regulation of steroidogenesis. The testicular interstitium of adult Gata4flox/flox ; Gata6flox/flox mice was injected with adenoviral vectors encoding Cre + GFP (Ad-Cre-IRES-GFP) or GFP alone (Ad-GFP). The vectors efficiently and selectively transduced Leydig cells, as evidenced by GFP reporter expression. Three days after Ad-Cre-IRES-GFP injection, expression of androgen biosynthetic genes (Hsd3b1, Cyp17a1 and Hsd17b3) was reduced, whereas expression of another Leydig cell marker, Insl3, was unchanged. Six days after Ad-Cre-IRES-GFP treatment, the testicular interstitium was devoid of Leydig cells, and there was a concomitant loss of all Leydig cell markers. Chromatin condensation, nuclear fragmentation, mitochondrial swelling, and other ultrastructural changes were evident in the degenerating Leydig cells. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry demonstrated reduced levels of androstenedione and testosterone in testes from mice injected with Ad-Cre-IRES-GFP. Late effects of treatment included testicular atrophy, infertility and the accumulation of lymphoid cells in the testicular interstitium. We conclude that adenoviral-mediated gene delivery is an expeditious way to probe Leydig cell function in vivo Our findings reinforce the notion that GATA factors are key regulators of steroidogenesis and testicular somatic cell survival.Free Finnish abstract: A Finnish translation of this abstract is freely available at http://www.reproduction-online.org/content/154/4/455/suppl/DC2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gervette M Penny
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Rebecca B Cochran
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Marjut Pihlajoki
- Children's HospitalUniversity of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Antti Kyrönlahti
- Children's HospitalUniversity of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anja Schrade
- Children's HospitalUniversity of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Merja Häkkinen
- University of Eastern FinlandSchool of Pharmacy, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Department of PhysiologyInstitute of Biomedicine, University of Turku and Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Markku Heikinheimo
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Children's HospitalUniversity of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - David B Wilson
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Developmental BiologyWashington University School of Medicine, St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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