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Chesnokov MS, Mamedova AR, Zhivotovsky B, Kopeina GS. A matter of new life and cell death: programmed cell death in the mammalian ovary. J Biomed Sci 2024; 31:31. [PMID: 38509545 PMCID: PMC10956231 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-024-01017-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mammalian ovary is a unique organ that displays a distinctive feature of cyclic changes throughout the entire reproductive period. The estrous/menstrual cycles are associated with drastic functional and morphological rearrangements of ovarian tissue, including follicular development and degeneration, and the formation and subsequent atrophy of the corpus luteum. The flawless execution of these reiterative processes is impossible without the involvement of programmed cell death (PCD). MAIN TEXT PCD is crucial for efficient and careful clearance of excessive, depleted, or obsolete ovarian structures for ovarian cycling. Moreover, PCD facilitates selection of high-quality oocytes and formation of the ovarian reserve during embryonic and juvenile development. Disruption of PCD regulation can heavily impact the ovarian functions and is associated with various pathologies, from a moderate decrease in fertility to severe hormonal disturbance, complete loss of reproductive function, and tumorigenesis. This comprehensive review aims to provide updated information on the role of PCD in various processes occurring in normal and pathologic ovaries. Three major events of PCD in the ovary-progenitor germ cell depletion, follicular atresia, and corpus luteum degradation-are described, alongside the detailed information on molecular regulation of these processes, highlighting the contribution of apoptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, and ferroptosis. Ultimately, the current knowledge of PCD aberrations associated with pathologies, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, premature ovarian insufficiency, and tumors of ovarian origin, is outlined. CONCLUSION PCD is an essential element in ovarian development, functions and pathologies. A thorough understanding of molecular mechanisms regulating PCD events is required for future advances in the diagnosis and management of various disorders of the ovary and the female reproductive system in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail S Chesnokov
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aygun R Mamedova
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Boris Zhivotovsky
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Gelina S Kopeina
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.
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2
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Hwang YS, Seita Y, Blanco MA, Sasaki K. CRISPR loss of function screening to identify genes involved in human primordial germ cell-like cell development. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1011080. [PMID: 38091369 PMCID: PMC10752514 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite our increasing knowledge of molecular mechanisms guiding various aspects of human reproduction, those underlying human primordial germ cell (PGC) development remain largely unknown. Here, we conducted custom CRISPR screening in an in vitro system of human PGC-like cells (hPGCLCs) to identify genes required for acquisition and maintenance of PGC fate. Amongst our candidates, we identified TCL1A, an AKT coactivator. Functional assessment in our in vitro hPGCLCs system revealed that TCL1A played a critical role in later stages of hPGCLC development. Moreover, we found that TCL1A loss reduced AKT-mTOR signaling, downregulated expression of genes related to translational control, and subsequently led to a reduction in global protein synthesis and proliferation. Together, our study highlights the utility of CRISPR screening for human in vitro-derived germ cells and identifies novel translational regulators critical for hPGCLC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Sun Hwang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Yasunari Seita
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - M. Andrés Blanco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Kotaro Sasaki
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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3
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Golkar-Narenji A, Dziegiel P, Kempisty B, Petitte J, Mozdziak PE, Bryja A. In vitro culture of reptile PGCS to preserve endangered species. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:1314-1326. [PMID: 37178380 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs), are the source of gametes in vertebrates. There are similarities in the development of PGCs of reptiles with avian and mammalian species PGCs development. PGCs culture has been performed for avian and mammalian species but there is no report for reptilian PGCs culture. In vitro culture of PGCs is needed to produce transgenic animals, preservation of endangered animals and for studies on cell behaviour and research on fertility. Reptiles are traded as exotic pets and a source of food and they are valuable for their skin and they are useful as model for medical research. Transgenic reptile has been suggested to be useful for pet industry and medical research. In this research different aspects of PGCs development was compared in three main classes of vertebrates including mammalian, avian and reptilian species. It is proposed that a discussion on similarities between reptilian PGCs development with avian and mammalian species helps to find clues for studies of reptilian PGCs development details and finding an efficient protocol for in vitro culture of reptilian PG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsaneh Golkar-Narenji
- Prestage Department of Poultry Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Piotr Dziegiel
- Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Division of Histology and Embryology, Wrocław Medical University, Wroclaw, Dolnoslaskie, Poland
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Prestage Department of Poultry Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Toruń, Poland
- Graduate Physiology Program NC State University North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Division of Anatomy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Dolnoslaskie, Poland
| | - James Petitte
- Prestage Department of Poultry Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Paul Edward Mozdziak
- Prestage Department of Poultry Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Graduate Physiology Program NC State University North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Artur Bryja
- Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Division of Anatomy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Dolnoslaskie, Poland
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4
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Lee J, Kim Y, Ataliotis P, Kim HG, Kim DW, Bennett DC, Brown NA, Layman LC, Kim SH. Coordination of canonical and noncanonical Hedgehog signalling pathways mediated by WDR11 during primordial germ cell development. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12309. [PMID: 37516749 PMCID: PMC10387110 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38017-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023] Open
Abstract
WDR11, a gene associated with Kallmann syndrome, is important in reproductive system development but molecular understanding of its action remains incomplete. We previously reported that Wdr11-deficient embryos exhibit defective ciliogenesis and developmental defects associated with Hedgehog (HH) signalling. Here we demonstrate that WDR11 is required for primordial germ cell (PGC) development, regulating canonical and noncanonical HH signalling in parallel. Loss of WDR11 disrupts PGC motility and proliferation driven by the cilia-independent, PTCH2/GAS1-dependent noncanonical HH pathway. WDR11 modulates the growth of somatic cells surrounding PGCs by regulating the cilia-dependent, PTCH1/BOC-dependent canonical HH pathway. We reveal that PTCH1/BOC or PTCH2/GAS1 receptor context dictates SMO localisation inside or outside of cilia, respectively, and loss of WDR11 affects the signalling responses of SMO in both situations. We show that GAS1 is induced by PTCH2-specific HH signalling, which is lost in the absence of WDR11. We also provide evidence supporting a role for WDR11 in ciliogenesis through regulation of anterograde intraflagellar transport potentially via its interaction with IFT20. Since WDR11 is a target of noncanonical SMO signalling, WDR11 represents a novel mechanism by which noncanonical and canonical HH signals communicate and cooperate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyoung Lee
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, London, UK
- Kernel Diagnostic Laboratories LTD, London, UK
| | - Yeonjoo Kim
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, London, UK
- The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Paris Ataliotis
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, London, UK
- Institute for Medical and Biomedical Education, St. George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Hyung-Goo Kim
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Dae-Won Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dorothy C Bennett
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Nigel A Brown
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Lawrence C Layman
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility and Genetics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, USA
| | - Soo-Hyun Kim
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, London, UK.
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Saani I, Raj N, Sood R, Ansari S, Mandviwala HA, Sanchez E, Boussios S. Clinical Challenges in the Management of Malignant Ovarian Germ Cell Tumours. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6089. [PMID: 37372675 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20126089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Nonepithelial ovarian cancers (NEOC) are a group of rare malignancies, including germ cell tumours (GCT) and sex cord-stromal tumours (SCST), along with small-cell carcinomas and sarcomas. GCTs represent 2-5% of ovarian cancers, with a yearly incidence of 4:100,000, and they usually affect young women and adolescents. Precursory germ cells of the ovary form the basis of GCT. They are histologically classified into primitive GCT, teratomas, and monodermal and somatic-type tumours associated with dermoid cysts. A primitive GCT can be either a yolk sac tumour (YST), dysgerminoma, or mixed germ cell neoplasm. Teratomas are either mature (benign) or immature (malignant). Given that malignant GCTs occur rarely compared to epithelial ovarian tumours (EOC), greater focus is required in their diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we review the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and molecular biology, along with the management and therapeutic challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iqra Saani
- Department of Medicine, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Windmill Road, Gillingham ME7 5NY, UK
| | - Nitish Raj
- Department of Radiology, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Plymouth PL6 8DH, UK
| | - Raja Sood
- Department of Clinical Medical Education, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, Epsom KT18 7EG, UK
| | - Shahbaz Ansari
- Department of Medicine, Glan Clwyd Hospital, NHS Wales, Denbighshire LL18 5UJ, UK
| | - Haider Abbas Mandviwala
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ziauddin Medical University, Karachi 75000, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Elisabet Sanchez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Windmill Road, Gillingham ME7 5NY, UK
| | - Stergios Boussios
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Windmill Road, Gillingham ME7 5NY, UK
- Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
- Kent Medway Medical School, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7LX, UK
- AELIA Organization, 9th Km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
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6
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Ipek E, Epikmen ET, Yildirim F, Ozsoy SY, Tunca R. Immunolabelling of SCF and c-KIT in canine perianal gland tumours. J Comp Pathol 2023; 200:51-58. [PMID: 36652776 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2022.11.007] [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: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
c-KIT and its ligand stem cell factor (SCF) play a direct role in the oncogenesis of various cancers by regulating the cell fate. Recent evidence indicates that an increased expression of c-KIT/SCF, driven by hormonal imbalances, is an important step in the development of hormone-dependent cancers. We investigated the possible role of the c-KIT/SCF system in the carcinogenesis in 44 perianal gland tumours (16 adenomas, 15 epitheliomas and 13 carcinomas) and 10 normal perianal gland tissues by assessing the percentage and type of cells that expressed c-KIT and SCF as well as the cellular localization of immunoreactivity. No differences in immunolabelling of SCF were found between normal glands and neoplastic cells of any histotype. The highest expression of c-KIT was seen in carcinomas and a positive correlation was found between c-KIT labelling score and mitotic index (R = 0.876; P <0.01). c-KIT labelling patterns in hepatoid cells varied among the tumour histotypes with adenomas having only membranous labelling. Three labelling patterns (membranous only, membranous and cytosolic, and cytosolic only) were seen in the other tumour histotypes. Cytosolic labelling was statistically more frequent in carcinomas than in adenomas (P <0.001). These findings suggest that c-KIT expression and its cellular localization may play a role in the development and progression of perianal gland tumours by influencing cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emrah Ipek
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey.
| | - Erkmen T Epikmen
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey
| | - Funda Yildirim
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sule Y Ozsoy
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey
| | - Recai Tunca
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey
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7
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Cheng H, Shang D, Zhou R. Germline stem cells in human. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:345. [PMID: 36184610 PMCID: PMC9527259 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01197-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The germline cells are essential for the propagation of human beings, thus essential for the survival of mankind. The germline stem cells, as a unique cell type, generate various states of germ stem cells and then differentiate into specialized cells, spermatozoa and ova, for producing offspring, while self-renew to generate more stem cells. Abnormal development of germline stem cells often causes severe diseases in humans, including infertility and cancer. Primordial germ cells (PGCs) first emerge during early embryonic development, migrate into the gentile ridge, and then join in the formation of gonads. In males, they differentiate into spermatogonial stem cells, which give rise to spermatozoa via meiosis from the onset of puberty, while in females, the female germline stem cells (FGSCs) retain stemness in the ovary and initiate meiosis to generate oocytes. Primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs) can be induced in vitro from embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells. In this review, we focus on current advances in these embryonic and adult germline stem cells, and the induced PGCLCs in humans, provide an overview of molecular mechanisms underlying the development and differentiation of the germline stem cells and outline their physiological functions, pathological implications, and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanhua Cheng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, China.
| | - Dantong Shang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, China
| | - Rongjia Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, China.
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8
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İpek E, Epikmen ET, Tunca R. Immunolabelling of c-KIT and CAM5.2 in Canine Anal Sac Gland Adenocarcinoma. J Comp Pathol 2022; 198:56-61. [PMID: 36116891 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2022.07.010] [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: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The role of c-KIT receptor in anal sac gland adenocarcinoma (ASGAC) is unclear despite its importance in the development of tumours. In this preliminary study, the expression of c-KIT was investigated in rarely observed canine ASGAC. The potential use of CAM5.2 in distinguishing ASGAC from perianal gland tumours was also evaluated. ASGAC was diagnosed in five out of 25 examined perianal tumours. By immunohistochemistry, cytosolic (abnormal) c-KIT expression was seen in four of the five cases. CAM5.2 immunoreactivity was detected in neoplastic cells of all ASGAC cases examined, whereas it was not evident in any case of perianal gland tumour. The findings suggest that c-KIT expression and its cellular localization may be important in the oncogenesis of ASGAC and CAM5.2 can be used to distinguish between ASGAC and perianal gland tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emrah İpek
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey.
| | - Erkmen T Epikmen
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey
| | - Recai Tunca
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey
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9
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Nakamura H, Iwakawa G, Matsubara K. Activation of Migratory Ability in Male Mouse Primordial Germ Cells by in vitro Organ Culture. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.3923/jms.2022.53.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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10
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Huang X, Meng L, Wang S, Man Q, Jiang Y, Zhu G. Transcriptional dynamics of the circulating chicken primordial germ cells revealing key genes in cell adhesion and proliferation prior to gonad colonization. Mol Reprod Dev 2022; 89:214-226. [PMID: 35118723 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23558] [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: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs), precursors to sperms and oocytes, are responsible for the transfer of genetic information to the next generation. The PGCs arise far away from the developing gonad and thus have to migrate across the embryo to reach their site of function. The migration of PGCs from extraembryonic regions to the genital ridges is accomplished through distinct routes among different species. In particular, the birds PGCs utilized the developing circulation system to travel long distance before settling within the gonad. This study screened the transcriptome profile of chicken PGCs isolated from the bloodstream and the genital ridges to identify the cell intrinsic signals that could guide the unique migration path through circulation. We found cell adhesion and extracellular matrix (ECM) associated pathways were highly enriched in the PGCs from blood but not gonads. The platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFRA and PDGFRB) were downregulated during gonad colonization and knockdown of either PDGFRA or PDGFRB inhibit the proliferation of blood PGCs. Furthermore, the migration of blood PGCs was impaired by the suppression of PDGFRA but not PDGFRB. Hence, the chicken PGCs show dynamic transcriptional remodeling during the blood-to-gonad migration and colonization. The free-floating PGCs in the circulation already express genes associated with cell-cell and cell-ECM interactions and therefore prepare for gonadal colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochen Huang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lu Meng
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Sheng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiu Man
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yunqi Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Guiyu Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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11
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Molecular regulation of polycystic ovary syndrome: altered gene expression levels in mouse models pretreatment and post-treatment. ZYGOTE 2021; 30:352-357. [PMID: 34727997 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199421000769] [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: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder and genetic factors are believed to play a role. The main aim was to investigate expression levels of genes involved in PI3K/AKT signalling pathway pretreatment and post-treatment. Mouse models of PCOS were generated. Group one included control mice with no polycystic ovaries (n = 4), Group 2 included a PCOS mouse model (n = 8), Group 3 included PCOS mice treated with clomiphene citrate (n = 7) and Group 4 included PCOS mice treated with clomiphene citrate, metformin and pioglitazone (n = 8). Histochemical analyses were performed. Total RNA was extracted and cDNA was synthesized. Irs, Akt1 and Akt2, mTor and Pdpk1 gene expression levels were evaluated by RT-PCR amplification. In Group 1, cortex and medulla were evaluated as normal; in Group 2, ovarian cortex was composed of immature oocytes and cystic follicles with atretic follicles. In Groups 3 and 4, follicles were in the process of normal follicle differentiation. The expression levels of Akt1 and Pi3k were significantly different (P < 0.0001) between Groups 1 and 2. The significant differences in expression levels of Pi3k and Akt1 were also observed between the Group 1 and both Groups 3 and 4 (P < 0.0001). Furthermore, significant variations of the expression levels of mTor between Groups 1 and 4 were observed. The extrapolation of results of this study may imply that follicular development may be regulated by molecular pathways involving Pi3k, Akt1 and mTor expression. Therefore, genes in the PI3K/AKT pathway may have a direct regulatory role in the development of PCOS.
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12
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PI3K/PTEN/AKT Signaling Pathways in Germ Cell Development and Their Involvement in Germ Cell Tumors and Ovarian Dysfunctions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189838. [PMID: 34575999 PMCID: PMC8467417 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies indicate that the PI3K/PTEN/AKT signaling pathways are critical regulators of ovarian function including the formation of the germ cell precursors, termed primordial germ cells, and the follicular pool maintenance. This article reviews the current state of knowledge of the functional role of the PI3K/PTEN/AKT pathways during primordial germ cell development and the dynamics of the ovarian primordial follicle reserve and how dysregulation of these signaling pathways may contribute to the development of some types of germ cell tumors and ovarian dysfunctions.
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13
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Jarysta A, Riou L, Firlej V, Lapoujade C, Kortulewski T, Barroca V, Gille AS, Dumont F, Jacques S, Letourneur F, Rosselli F, Allemand I, Fouchet P. Abnormal migration behavior linked to Rac1 signaling contributes to primordial germ cell exhaustion in Fanconi anemia pathway-deficient Fancg-/- embryos. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 31:97-110. [PMID: 34368842 PMCID: PMC8682768 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare human genetic disorder characterized by bone marrow failure, predisposition to cancer and developmental defects including hypogonadism. Reproductive defects leading to germ cell aplasia are the most consistent phenotypes seen in FA mouse models. We examined the role of the nuclear FA core complex gene Fancg in the development of primordial germ cells (PGCs), the embryonic precursors of adult gametes, during fetal development. PGC maintenance was severely impaired in Fancg−/− embryos. We observed a defect in the number of PGCs starting at E9.5 and a strong attrition at E11.5 and E13.5. Remarkably, we observed a mosaic pattern reflecting a portion of testicular cords devoid of PGCs in E13.5 fetal gonads. Our in vitro and in vivo data highlight a potential role of Fancg in the proliferation and in the intrinsic cell motility abilities of PGCs. The random migratory process is abnormally activated in Fancg−/− PGCs, altering the migration of cells. Increased cell death and PGC attrition observed in E11.5 Fancg−/− embryos are features consistent with delayed migration of PGCs along the migratory pathway to the genital ridges. Moreover, we show that an inhibitor of RAC1 mitigates the abnormal migratory pattern observed in Fancg−/− PGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandine Jarysta
- Université de Paris and Université Paris-Saclay, iRCM/IBFJ CEA, UMR Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Laboratoire des Cellules Souches Germinales, F-92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Lydia Riou
- Université de Paris and Université Paris-Saclay, iRCM/IBFJ CEA, UMR Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Laboratoire des Cellules Souches Germinales, F-92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Virginie Firlej
- Université de Paris and Université Paris-Saclay, iRCM/IBFJ CEA, UMR Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Laboratoire des Cellules Souches Germinales, F-92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Clémentine Lapoujade
- Université de Paris and Université Paris-Saclay, iRCM/IBFJ CEA, UMR Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Laboratoire des Cellules Souches Germinales, F-92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Thierry Kortulewski
- Université de Paris and Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, iRCM/IBFJ CEA, UMR Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Laboratoire de RadioPathologie, F-92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Vilma Barroca
- Université de Paris and Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, iRCM/IBFJ CEA, UMR Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, F-92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Gille
- Université de Paris and Université Paris-Saclay, iRCM/IBFJ CEA, UMR Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Laboratoire des Cellules Souches Germinales, F-92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France.,Département de Génétique, Développement et Cancer. Team From Gametes to Birth, Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
| | - Florent Dumont
- Université Paris Saclay, UMS IPSIT, F-92296, Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Sébastien Jacques
- Plate-Forme Séquençage et Génomique, Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, Université de Paris, 22 rue Méchain, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Franck Letourneur
- Plate-Forme Séquençage et Génomique, Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, Université de Paris, 22 rue Méchain, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Filippo Rosselli
- CNRS-UMR9019, Intégrité du Génome et Cancers, Equipe Labellisée « La Ligue Contre Le cancer », Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Université Paris-Saclay, 94805 Villejuif, France
| | - Isabelle Allemand
- Université de Paris and Université Paris-Saclay, iRCM/IBFJ CEA, UMR Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Laboratoire des Cellules Souches Germinales, F-92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Pierre Fouchet
- Université de Paris and Université Paris-Saclay, iRCM/IBFJ CEA, UMR Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Laboratoire des Cellules Souches Germinales, F-92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
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14
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Sorrenti M, Klinger FG, Iona S, Rossi V, Marcozzi S, DE Felici M. Expression and possible roles of extracellular signal-related kinases 1-2 (ERK1-2) in mouse primordial germ cell development. J Reprod Dev 2020; 66:399-409. [PMID: 32418930 PMCID: PMC7593634 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the present work, we described the expression and activity of extracellular signal-related kinases 1-2 (ERK1-2) in mouse primordial germ cells (PGCs) from
8.5–14.5 days post coitum (dpc) and investigated whether these kinases play a role in regulating the various processes of PGC development. Using
immunofluorescence and immunoblotting to detect the active phosphorylated form of ERK1-2 (p-ERK1-2), we found that the kinases were present in most
proliferating 8.5–10.5 dpc PGCs, low in 11.5 dpc PGCs, and progressively increasing between 12.5–14.5 dpc both in female and male PGCs. In
vitro culture experiments showed that inhibiting activation of ERK1-2 with the MEK-specific inhibitor U0126 significantly reduced the growth of 8.5
dpc PGCs in culture but had little effect on 11.5–12.5 dpc PGCs. Moreover, we found that the inhibitor did not affect the adhesion of 11.5 dpc PGCs, but it
significantly reduced their motility features onto a cell monolayer. Further, while the ability of female PGCs to begin meiosis was not significantly affected
by U0126, their progression through meiotic prophase I was slowed down. Notably, the activity of ERK1-2 was necessary for maintaining the correct expression of
oocyte-specific genes crucial for germ cells survival and the formation of primordial follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Sorrenti
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Histology and Embryology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00173, Italy
| | - Francesca Gioia Klinger
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Histology and Embryology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00173, Italy
| | - Saveria Iona
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Histology and Embryology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00173, Italy
| | - Valerio Rossi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Histology and Embryology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00173, Italy
| | - Serena Marcozzi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Histology and Embryology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00173, Italy
| | - Massimo DE Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Histology and Embryology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00173, Italy
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15
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Shi JP, Fu W, Liu J. <Omega>-3 PUFA Attenuates LPS-Induced Neuro-Injury of Neonatal Rats through the PI3K/AKT Pathway. Neuroscience 2019; 414:112-127. [PMID: 31260648 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation may result in periventricular leukomalacia, which is the leading cause of preterm brain encephalopathy. Moreover, <omega>-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (<omega>-3 PUFAs) play a pivotal role against central nervous system injury, which is likely related to its anti-inflammatory effect. However, the mechanism regarding the remedial effects of <omega>-3 PUFA for LPS-induced neuro-injury has remained unclear. In this study, newborn SD rats were intraperitoneally injected with LPS or < omega>-3 PUFA, and the proliferation and apoptosis of neurocytes in the hippocampus were measured by TUNEL and BrdU. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and Western blot assay were used to analyze the mRNA and protein levels of PI3K, AKT and β-catenin in vitro and in vivo. We found that <omega>-3 PUFA promoted the proliferation and migration of neurocytes in vitro and in vivo and inhibited apoptosis. Furthermore, we confirmed that <omega>-3 PUFA through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway positively regulated the expression of PI3K and further caused the phosphorylation of AKT activation, followed by the upregulation of β-catenin expression. Interestingly, this phenomenon became more noticeable with the combined application of <omega>-3 PUFA and a PI3K/AKT agonist. In conclusion, we confirm that <omega>-3 PUFA plays an important role in neuroprotection by activating the PI3K/AKT/β-catenin pathway. It may be a promising strategy against brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Peng Shi
- Department of Paediatrics, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Department of Neonatology and NICU of Bayi Children's Hospital, the Army General Hospital of the Chinese PLA, Southern Medical University, Beijing 100700, China; Department of Neonatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Weihui, Henan 453100, PR China
| | - Wei Fu
- Department of Neonatology and NICU, Beijing Chaoyang District Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100101, China; Department of Neonatology and NICU of Bayi Children's Hospital, the Army General Hospital of the Chinese PLA, Southern Medical University, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Paediatrics, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Department of Neonatology and NICU, Beijing Chaoyang District Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100101, China; Department of Neonatology and NICU of Bayi Children's Hospital, the Army General Hospital of the Chinese PLA, Southern Medical University, Beijing 100700, China.
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16
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Byrnes KG, McDermott K, Coffey JC. Development of mesenteric tissues. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2018; 92:55-62. [PMID: 30347243 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2018.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Mesothelial, neurovascular, lymphatic, adipose and mesenchymal tissues make up the mesentery. These tissues are pathobiologically important for numerous reasons. Collectively, they form a continuous, discrete and substantive organ. Additionally, they maintain abdominal digestive organs in position and in continuity with other systems. Furthermore, as they occupy a central position, they mediate transmission of signals between the abdominal digestive system and the remainder of the body. Despite this physiologic centrality, mesenteric tissue development has received little investigatory focus. However, recent advances in our understanding of anatomy demonstrate continuity between all mesenteric tissues, thereby linking previously unrelated studies. In this review, we examine the development of mesenteric tissue in normality and in the setting of congenital abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Gerard Byrnes
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; Graduate Entry Medical School, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Kieran McDermott
- Graduate Entry Medical School, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - John Calvin Coffey
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; Graduate Entry Medical School, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; Centre for Interventions in Infection, Inflammation and Immunity (4i), University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
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17
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Hen G, Sela-Donenfeld D. "A narrow bridge home": The dorsal mesentery in primordial germ cell migration. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2018; 92:97-104. [PMID: 30153479 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2018.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Specification of primordial germ cells (PGCs) in all vertebrates takes place in extragonadal sites. This requires migration of PGCs through embryonic tissues towards the genital ridges by both passive and active types of migration. Commonly, colonization in the genital ridges follows migration of the PGCs along the thin tissue of the dorsal mesentery. Here we review the anatomy of the dorsal mesentery, the role it plays in migration of PGCs, and the interactions of PGCs with different cell types, extracellular matrix and signaling pathways that are all essential for attraction and orientation of PGCs along the dorsal mesentery towards the gonad anlage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon Hen
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Dalit Sela-Donenfeld
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel.
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18
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Selfe J, Goddard NC, McIntyre A, Taylor KR, Renshaw J, Popov SD, Thway K, Summersgill B, Huddart RA, Gilbert DC, Shipley JM. IGF1R signalling in testicular germ cell tumour cells impacts on cell survival and acquired cisplatin resistance. J Pathol 2018; 244:242-253. [PMID: 29160922 PMCID: PMC5817239 DOI: 10.1002/path.5008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) are the most frequent malignancy and cause of death from solid tumours in the 20‐ to 40‐year age group. Although most cases show sensitivity to cis‐platinum‐based chemotherapy, this is associated with long‐term toxicities and chemo‐resistance. Roles for receptor tyrosine kinases other than KIT are largely unknown in TGCT. We therefore conducted a phosphoproteomic screen and identified the insulin growth factor receptor‐1 (IGF1R) as both highly expressed and activated in TGCT cell lines representing the nonseminomatous subtype. IGF1R was also frequently expressed in tumour samples from patients with nonseminomas. Functional analysis of cell line models showed that long‐term shRNA‐mediated IGF1R silencing leads to apoptosis and complete ablation of nonseminoma cells with active IGF1R signalling. Cell lines with high levels of IGF1R activity also showed reduced AKT signalling in response to decreased IGF1R expression as well as sensitivity to the small‐molecule IGF1R inhibitor NVP‐AEW541. These results were in contrast to those in the seminoma cell line TCAM2 that lacked IGF1R signalling via AKT and was one of the two cell lines least sensitive to the IGF1R inhibitor. The dependence on IGF1R activity in the majority of nonseminomas parallels the known role of IGF signalling in the proliferation, migration, and survival of primordial germ cells, the putative cell of origin for TGCT. Upregulation of IGF1R expression and signalling was also found to contribute to acquired cisplatin resistance in an in vitro nonseminoma model, providing a rationale for targeting IGF1R in cisplatin‐resistant disease. © 2017 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Selfe
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Neil C Goddard
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Alan McIntyre
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Kathryn R Taylor
- Glioma Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Jane Renshaw
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Sergey D Popov
- Glioma Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Khin Thway
- Sarcoma Unit, Department of Histopathology, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Brenda Summersgill
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Robert A Huddart
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Sutton, UK
| | - Duncan C Gilbert
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK.,Sussex Cancer Centre, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, UK
| | - Janet M Shipley
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
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19
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The stem cell factor (SCF)/c-KIT signalling in testis and prostate cancer. J Cell Commun Signal 2017; 11:297-307. [PMID: 28656507 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-017-0399-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 06/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The stem cell factor (SCF) is a cytokine that specifically binds the tyrosine kinase receptor c-KIT. The SCF/c-KIT interaction leads to receptor dimerization, activation of kinase activity and initiation of several signal transduction pathways that control cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation and migration in several tissues. The activity of SCF/c-KIT system is linked with the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K), the Src, the Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT), the phospholipase-C (PLC-γ) and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. Moreover, it has been reported that cancer cases display an overactivation of c-KIT due to the presence of gain-of-function mutations or receptor overexpression, which renders c-KIT a tempting target for cancer treatment. In the case of male cancers the most documented activated pathways are the PI3-K and Src, both enhancing abnormal cell proliferation. It is also known that the Src activity in prostate cancer cases depends on the presence of tr-KIT, the cytoplasmic truncated variant of c-KIT that is specifically expressed in tumour tissues and, thus, a very interesting target for drug development. The present review provides an overview of the signalling pathways activated by SCF/c-KIT and discusses the potential application of c-KIT inhibitors for treatment of testicular and prostatic cancers.
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20
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Ulytė A, Ulys A, Sužiedėlis K, Patašius A, Smailytė G. Testicular cancer in two brothers of a quadruplet: a case report and a review of literature. Acta Med Litu 2017. [PMID: 28630588 PMCID: PMC5467958 DOI: 10.6001/actamedica.v24i1.3458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Testicular cancer and a multiple birth are both rare events, and the risk of testicular cancer is increased in twins. In Lithuania, only five quadruplets have been recorded since the middle of the 20th century. In this report, we present two rare events in one family: testicular cancer in two brothers of a quadruplet (three brothers and a sister). Case description. Both patients were diagnosed at 21 years of age and died within two years from the diagnosis despite treatment. The third symptomless brother did not have testicular pathology. We also review the risk factors associated with testicular cancer, and the proposed hypotheses how a multiple birth results in an increased risk. The most consistent risk factors for testicular cancer are cryptorchidism, prior history of testicular cancer, and a positive familial history. According to different studies, the risk of testicular cancer in twins is higher from 22% to 30%, compared to the general population. Conclusions. To our knowledge, we have presented the first case of testicular teratoblastoma in brothers of a quadruplet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnė Ulytė
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | | | | | - Giedrė Smailytė
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania.,National Cancer Institute, Vilnius, Lithuania
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21
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Pyle LC, Nathanson KL. Genetic changes associated with testicular cancer susceptibility. Semin Oncol 2016; 43:575-581. [PMID: 27899190 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) is a highly heritable cancer primarily affecting young white men. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been particularly effective in identifying multiple common variants with strong contribution to TGCT risk. These loci identified through association studies have implicated multiple genes as associated with TGCT predisposition, many of which are unique among cancer types, and regulate processes such as pluripotency, sex specification, and microtubule assembly. Together these biologically plausible genes converge on pathways involved in male germ cell development and maturation, and suggest that perturbation of them confers susceptibility to TGCT, as a developmental defect of germ cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise C Pyle
- Division of Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA; Division of Translational Medicine and Human Genetics, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Katherine L Nathanson
- Division of Translational Medicine and Human Genetics, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.
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22
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De Felici M. The Formation and Migration of Primordial Germ Cells in Mouse and Man. Results Probl Cell Differ 2016; 58:23-46. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-31973-5_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
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23
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Schell C, Kretz O, Liang W, Kiefer B, Schneider S, Sellung D, Bork T, Leiber C, Rüegg MA, Mallidis C, Schlatt S, Mayerhofer A, Huber TB, Grahammer F. The Rapamycin-Sensitive Complex of Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Is Essential to Maintain Male Fertility. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2015; 186:324-36. [PMID: 26683665 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2015.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) inhibitor rapamycin and its analogs are being increasingly used in solid-organ transplantation. A commonly reported side effect is male subfertility to infertility, yet the precise mechanisms of mTOR interference with male fertility remain obscure. With the use of a conditional mouse genetic approach we demonstrate that deficiency of mTORC1 in the epithelial derivatives of the Wolffian duct is sufficient to cause male infertility. Analysis of spermatozoa from Raptor fl/fl*KspCre mice revealed an overall decreased motility pattern. Both epididymis and seminal vesicles displayed extensive organ regression with increasing age. Histologic and ultrastructural analyses demonstrated increased amounts of destroyed and absorbed spermatozoa in different segments of the epididymis. Mechanistically, genetic and pharmacologic mTORC1 inhibition was associated with an impaired cellular metabolism and a disturbed protein secretion of epididymal epithelial cells. Collectively, our data highlight the role of mTORC1 to preserve the function of the epididymis, ductus deferens, and the seminal vesicles. We thus reveal unexpected new insights into the frequently observed mTORC1 inhibitor side effect of male infertility in transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Schell
- Renal Division, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Kretz
- Renal Division, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Neuroanatomy, Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Wei Liang
- Renal Division, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Division of Nephrology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Betina Kiefer
- Renal Division, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Simon Schneider
- Renal Division, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dominik Sellung
- Renal Division, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tillmann Bork
- Renal Division, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christian Leiber
- Division of Urology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Markus A Rüegg
- Biozentrum Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Con Mallidis
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Anatomy III, Cell Biology, Ludwig-Maximillians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tobias B Huber
- Renal Division, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; BIOSS Center for Biological Signalling Studies, Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Center for Systems Biology (ZBSA), Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Florian Grahammer
- Renal Division, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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24
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Physiologic Course of Female Reproductive Function: A Molecular Look into the Prologue of Life. J Pregnancy 2015; 2015:715735. [PMID: 26697222 PMCID: PMC4678088 DOI: 10.1155/2015/715735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The genetic, endocrine, and metabolic mechanisms underlying female reproduction are numerous and sophisticated, displaying complex functional evolution throughout a woman's lifetime. This vital course may be systematized in three subsequent stages: prenatal development of ovaries and germ cells up until in utero arrest of follicular growth and the ensuing interim suspension of gonadal function; onset of reproductive maturity through puberty, with reinitiation of both gonadal and adrenal activity; and adult functionality of the ovarian cycle which permits ovulation, a key event in female fertility, and dictates concurrent modifications in the endometrium and other ovarian hormone-sensitive tissues. Indeed, the ultimate goal of this physiologic progression is to achieve ovulation and offer an adequate environment for the installation of gestation, the consummation of female fertility. Strict regulation of these processes is important, as disruptions at any point in this evolution may equate a myriad of endocrine-metabolic disturbances for women and adverse consequences on offspring both during pregnancy and postpartum. This review offers a summary of pivotal aspects concerning the physiologic course of female reproductive function.
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25
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Rossitto M, Philibert P, Poulat F, Boizet-Bonhoure B. Molecular events and signalling pathways of male germ cell differentiation in mouse. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2015; 45:84-93. [PMID: 26454096 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2015.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Germ cells, the precursors of gametes, represent a unique cell lineage that is able to differentiate into spermatozoa or oocytes depending on the chromosomal sex of the organism. In the mammalian embryonic gonad, commitment to oogenesis involves pre-meiotic DNA replication and entry into the first meiotic division; whereas, commitment to spermatogenesis involves inhibition of meiotic initiation, suppression of pluripotency, mitotic arrest and expression of specific markers that will control the development of the male germ cells. The crucial decision made by the germ line to commit to either a male or a female fate has been partially explained by genetic and ex vivo studies in mice which have implicated a complex network of regulatory genes, numerous factors and pathways. Besides the reproductive failure that may follow a deregulation of this complex network, the germ cells may, in view of their proliferative and pluripotent nature, act as precursors of potential malignant transformation and as putative targets for exogenous environmental compounds. Our review summarizes and discusses recent developments that have improved our understanding on how germ cell precursors are committed to a male or a female cell fate in the mouse gonad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moïra Rossitto
- Genetic and Development Department, Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UPR1142, Montpellier, France.
| | - Pascal Philibert
- Genetic and Development Department, Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UPR1142, Montpellier, France.
| | - Francis Poulat
- Genetic and Development Department, Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UPR1142, Montpellier, France.
| | - Brigitte Boizet-Bonhoure
- Genetic and Development Department, Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UPR1142, Montpellier, France.
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26
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Vigueras-Villaseñor RM, Cortés-Trujillo L, Chávez-Saldaña M, Vázquez FG, Carrasco-Daza D, Cuevas-Alpuche O, Rojas-Castañeda JC. Analysis of POU5F1, c-Kit, PLAP, AP2γ and SALL4 in gonocytes of patients with cryptorchidism. Acta Histochem 2015; 117:752-61. [PMID: 26315991 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2015.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Revised: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Cryptorchidism is a risk factor for the development of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs). The most common type of TGCT in cryptorchidism is seminoma. The intratubular germ cell neoplasia unclassified (ITGCNU) is a histological pattern preceding the development of seminomas and non-seminomas. It was suggested that in patients with cryptorchidism, the gonocytes remained undifferentiated with pluripotent abilities expressing proteins like POU domain class 5 transcription factor 1 (POU5F1), tyrosine kinase receptor c-Kit, placental-like alkaline phosphatase (PLAP), the transcription factor AP2γ and sal-like protein 4 (SALL4) that confer to the gonocytes this ability and therefore make them susceptible to develop ITGCNU. The aim of the present study was to determine if the gonocytes of patients with cryptorchidism express POU5F1, c-Kit, PLAP, AP2γ and SALL4 proteins after their differentiation period. Based on this, we evaluated samples of testicular tissue from newborns to 16-year old subjects with or without cryptorchidism in search of POU5F1, c-Kit, PLAP, AP2γ and SALL4 using immunocytochemical method, the results of which were validated by RT-PCR. The results showed that control subjects witnessed a down-regulation in the expression of these five proteins in the first year of life, which eventually disappeared. On the other hand, it was determined that 21.6% (8/37) of the patients with cryptorchidism continued to express, at least, one of the proteins analyzed in this study after the second year of life. And only 5.4% (2/37) of the patients were positive to the five markers. These data sustain the proposed hypothesis that in cryptorchid patients, ITGCNU arises from gonocytes that fail in their differentiation process to spermatogonia with conservation of the proteins (POU5F1, c-Kit, PLAP, AP2γ and SALL4) that maintain pluripotency and undifferentiated characteristics and which are responsible for making the gonocytes susceptible to malignancy. However, we cannot guarantee that these patients present neoplastic transformation.
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Li C, Wang Z, Wang C, Ma Q, Zhao Y. Perivascular adipose tissue-derived adiponectin inhibits collar-induced carotid atherosclerosis by promoting macrophage autophagy. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0124031. [PMID: 26020520 PMCID: PMC4447395 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0124031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Adiponectin (APN) secreted from perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is one of the important anti-inflammatory adipokines to inhibit the development of atherosclerosis, but the underlying mechanism has not been clarified. In this study, we aimed to elucidate how APN regulates plaque formation in atherosclerosis. METHODS AND RESULTS To assess the role of APN secreted by PVAT in atherosclerosis progression, we performed PVAT transplantation experiments on carotid artery atherosclerosis model: ApoE knockout (ApoE-/-) mice with a perivascular collar placement around the left carotid artery in combination with a high-fat diet feeding. Our results show that the ApoE-/- mice with PVAT derived from APN knockout (APN-/-) mice exhibited accelerated plaque volume formation compared to ApoE-/- mice transplanted with wild-type littermate tissue. Conversely, autophagy in macrophages was significantly attenuated in ApoE-/- mice transplanted with APN-/- mouse-derived PVAT compared to controls. Furthermore, in vitro studies indicate that APN treatment increased autophagy in primary macrophages, as evidenced by increased LC3-I processing and Beclin1 expression, which was accompanied by down-regulation of p62. Moreover, our results demonstrate that APN promotes macrophage autophagy via suppressing the Akt/FOXO3a signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that PVAT-secreted APN suppresses plaque formation by inducing macrophage autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changlong Li
- Beijing Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing, China
- Department of Cardiology, Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhijian Wang
- Beijing Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Chunxiao Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Ma
- Beijing Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yingxin Zhao
- Beijing Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing, China
- Department of Cardiology, Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- * E-mail:
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Rijlaarsdam MA, Tax DMJ, Gillis AJM, Dorssers LCJ, Koestler DC, de Ridder J, Looijenga LHJ. Genome wide DNA methylation profiles provide clues to the origin and pathogenesis of germ cell tumors. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0122146. [PMID: 25859847 PMCID: PMC4479500 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0122146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 02/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The cell of origin of the five subtypes (I-V) of germ cell tumors (GCTs) are assumed to be germ cells from different maturation stages. This is (potentially) reflected in their methylation status as fetal maturing primordial germ cells are globally demethylated during migration from the yolk sac to the gonad. Imprinted regions are erased in the gonad and later become uniparentally imprinted according to fetal sex. Here, 91 GCTs (type I-IV) and four cell lines were profiled (Illumina’s HumanMethylation450BeadChip). Data was pre-processed controlling for cross hybridization, SNPs, detection rate, probe-type bias and batch effects. The annotation was extended, covering snRNAs/microRNAs, repeat elements and imprinted regions. A Hidden Markov Model-based genome segmentation was devised to identify differentially methylated genomic regions. Methylation profiles allowed for separation of clusters of non-seminomas (type II), seminomas/dysgerminomas (type II), spermatocytic seminomas (type III) and teratomas/dermoid cysts (type I/IV). The seminomas, dysgerminomas and spermatocytic seminomas were globally hypomethylated, in line with previous reports and their demethylated precursor. Differential methylation and imprinting status between subtypes reflected their presumed cell of origin. Ovarian type I teratomas and dermoid cysts showed (partial) sex specific uniparental maternal imprinting. The spermatocytic seminomas showed uniparental paternal imprinting while testicular teratomas exhibited partial imprinting erasure. Somatic imprinting in type II GCTs might indicate a cell of origin after global demethylation but before imprinting erasure. This is earlier than previously described, but agrees with the totipotent/embryonic stem cell like potential of type II GCTs and their rare extra-gonadal localization. The results support the common origin of the type I teratomas and show strong similarity between ovarian type I teratomas and dermoid cysts. In conclusion, we identified specific and global methylation differences between GCT subtypes, providing insight into their developmental timing and underlying developmental biology. Data and extended annotation are deposited at GEO (GSE58538 and GPL18809).
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin A. Rijlaarsdam
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute—University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - David M. J. Tax
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science Intelligent Systems—Delft Bioinformatics Lab, Technical University of Delft, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Ad J. M. Gillis
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute—University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lambert C. J. Dorssers
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute—University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Devin C. Koestler
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Jeroen de Ridder
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science Intelligent Systems—Delft Bioinformatics Lab, Technical University of Delft, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Leendert H. J. Looijenga
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute—University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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Nistal M, Paniagua R, González-Peramato P, Reyes-Múgica M. Perspectives in pediatric pathology, chapter 1. Normal development of testicular structures: from the bipotential gonad to the fetal testis. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2015; 18:88-102. [PMID: 25119266 DOI: 10.2350/12-04-1184-pb.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Nistal
- 1 Pathology, Hospital La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Calle Arzobispo Morcillo #2, Madrid 28029, Spain
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Makker A, Goel MM, Mahdi AA. PI3K/PTEN/Akt and TSC/mTOR signaling pathways, ovarian dysfunction, and infertility: an update. J Mol Endocrinol 2014; 53:R103-18. [PMID: 25312969 DOI: 10.1530/jme-14-0220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Abnormalities in ovarian function, including defective oogenesis and folliculogenesis, represent a key female reproductive deficiency. Accumulating evidence in the literature has shown that the PI3K/PTEN/Akt and TSC/mTOR signaling pathways are critical regulators of ovarian function including quiescence, activation, and survival of primordial follicles, granulosa cell proliferation and differentiation, and meiotic maturation of oocytes. Dysregulation of these signaling pathways may contribute to infertility caused by impaired follicular development, intrafollicular oocyte development, and ovulation. This article reviews the current state of knowledge of the functional role of the PI3K/PTEN/Akt and TSC/mTOR pathways during mammalian oogenesis and folliculogenesis and their association with female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annu Makker
- Post-Graduate Department of PathologyDepartment of BiochemistryKing George's Medical University, Lucknow 226003, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Madhu Mati Goel
- Post-Graduate Department of PathologyDepartment of BiochemistryKing George's Medical University, Lucknow 226003, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abbas Ali Mahdi
- Post-Graduate Department of PathologyDepartment of BiochemistryKing George's Medical University, Lucknow 226003, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Cardoso HJ, Figueira MI, Correia S, Vaz CV, Socorro S. The SCF/c-KIT system in the male: Survival strategies in fertility and cancer. Mol Reprod Dev 2014; 81:1064-79. [PMID: 25359157 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Maintaining the delicate balance between cell survival and death is of the utmost importance for the proper development of germ cells and subsequent fertility. On the other hand, the fine regulation of tissue homeostasis by mechanisms that control cell fate is a factor that can prevent carcinogenesis. c-KIT is a type III receptor tyrosine kinase activated by its ligand, stem cell factor (SCF). c-KIT signaling plays a crucial role in cell fate decisions, specifically controlling cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, and apoptosis. Indeed, deregulating the SCF/c-KIT system by attenuation or overactivation of its signaling strength is linked to male infertility and cancer, and rebalancing its activity via c-KIT inhibitors has proven beneficial in treating human tumors that contain gain-of-function mutations or overexpress c-KIT. This review addresses the roles of SCF and c-KIT in the male reproductive tract, and discusses the potential application of c-KIT target therapies in disorders of the reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrique J Cardoso
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
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32
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Aeckerle N, Drummer C, Debowski K, Viebahn C, Behr R. Primordial germ cell development in the marmoset monkey as revealed by pluripotency factor expression: suggestion of a novel model of embryonic germ cell translocation. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 21:66-80. [PMID: 25237007 PMCID: PMC4275041 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are the embryonic progenitors of sperm and egg cells. Mammalian PGCs are thought to actively migrate from the yolk sac endoderm over long distances across the embryo to reach the somatic genital ridges. The general principles of mammalian PGC development were discovered in mice. In contrast, little is known about PGC development in primates due to extremely limited access to primate embryos. Here, we analyzed 12 well preserved marmoset monkey (Callithrix jacchus) embryos covering the phase from PGC emergence in the endoderm to the formation of the sexually differentiated gonad (embryonic day (E) 50 to E95). We show using immunohistochemistry that the pluripotency factors OCT4A and NANOG specifically mark PGCs throughout the period studied. In contrast, SALL4 and LIN28 were first expressed ubiquitously and only later down-regulated in somatic tissues. We further show, for the first time, that PGCs are located in the endoderm in E50 embryos in close spatial proximity to the prospective genital ridge, making a long-range migration of PGCs dispensable. At E65, PGCs are already present in the primitive gonad, while significantly later embryonic stages still exhibit PGCs at their original endodermal site, revealing a wide spatio-temporal window of PGC distribution. Our findings challenge the ‘dogma’ of active long-range PGC migration from the endoderm to the gonads. We therefore favor an alternative model based primarily on passive translocation of PGCs from the mesenchyme that surrounds the gut to the prospective gonad through the intercalar expansion of mesenchymal tissue which contains the PGCs. In summary, we (i) show differential pluripotency factor expression during primate embryo development and (ii) provide a schematic model for embryonic PGC translocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Aeckerle
- Stem Cell Biology Unit, German Primate Center - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - C Drummer
- Stem Cell Biology Unit, German Primate Center - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - K Debowski
- Stem Cell Biology Unit, German Primate Center - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - C Viebahn
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Center of Anatomy, University of Göttingen, Kreuzbergring 36, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - R Behr
- Stem Cell Biology Unit, German Primate Center - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
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Rodríguez-Yoldi MJ, Gascón S, Barranquero C, García-Barrios A, Osada J. Involvement of intracellular signaling in the IL-1β inhibitory effect on fructose intestinal absorption. J Cell Physiol 2014; 230:896-902. [PMID: 25216359 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A variety of bacteria and their excreted/secreted products having direct effects on epithelial ion transport and permeability and the release of cytokines during bacterial infection may impact directly on epithelial function. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) is a pleiotropic cytokine that affects the intestinal absorption of nutrients. The aim of this work was to study the intracellular signaling pathways involved in the inhibitory effect of IL-1β on D-fructose intestinal transport in rabbit jejunum and Caco-2 cells. The results show that the cytokine inhibitory effect was completely reversed in presence of proteasome or PKC selective inhibitors in IL-1β treated rabbits. In addition, the activation of PI3K abolished the IL-1β effect. Likewise, these results were confirmed in Caco-2 cells. In addition, p-PI3K expression was increased by IL-1β-treatment whereas the expression of p-PKCα was not significantly affected. In summary, the results suggest that IL-1β could regulate the activation of pPKCα 73, pPI3K 55, and NF-kB proteins. These events could exert an inhibitory effect on fructose intestinal absorption by a modification of GLUT5 insertion to brush-border membrane and/or the functional transporter activity. This effect is independent of hormonal milieu and nervous stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- María J Rodríguez-Yoldi
- Physiology Unit, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Spain
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Figueira MI, Cardoso HJ, Correia S, Maia CJ, Socorro S. Hormonal regulation of c-KIT receptor and its ligand: implications for human infertility? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 49:1-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.proghi.2014.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Rijlaarsdam MA, Looijenga LHJ. An oncofetal and developmental perspective on testicular germ cell cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2014; 29:59-74. [PMID: 25066859 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2014.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Accepted: 07/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Germ cell tumors (GCTs) represent a diverse group of tumors presumably originating from (early fetal) developing germ cells. Most frequent are the testicular germ cell cancers (TGCC). Overall, TGCC is the most frequent malignancy in Caucasian males (20-40 years) and remains an important cause of (treatment related) mortality in these young men. The strong association between the phenotype of TGCC stem cell components and their totipotent ancestor (fetal primordial germ cell or gonocyte) makes these tumors highly relevant from an onco-fetal point of view. This review subsequently discusses the evidence for the early embryonic origin of TGCCs, followed by an overview of the crucial association between TGCC pathogenesis, genetics, environmental exposure and the (fetal) testicular micro-environment (genvironment). This culminates in an evaluation of three genvironmentally modulated hallmarks of TGCC directly related to the oncofetal pathogenesis of TGCC: (1) maintenance of pluripotency, (2) cell cycle control/cisplatin sensitivity and (3) regulation of proliferation/migration/apoptosis by KIT-KITL mediated receptor tyrosine kinase signaling. Briefly, TGCC exhibit identifiable stem cell components (seminoma and embryonal carcinoma) and progenitors that show large and consistent similarities to primordial/embryonic germ cells, their presumed totipotent cells of origin. TGCC pathogenesis depends crucially on a complex interaction of genetic and (micro-)environmental, i.e. genvironmental risk factors that have only been partly elucidated despite significant effort. TGCC stem cell components also show a high degree of similarity with embryonic stem/germ cells (ES) in the regulation of pluripotency and cell cycle control, directly related to their exquisite sensitivity to DNA damaging agents (e.g. cisplatin). Of note, (ES specific) micro-RNAs play a pivotal role in the crossover between cell cycle control, pluripotency and chemosensitivity. Moreover, multiple consistent observations reported TGCC to be associated with KIT-KITL mediated receptor tyrosine kinase signaling, a pathway crucially implicated in proliferation, migration and survival during embryogenesis including germ cell development. In conclusion, TGCCs are a fascinating model for onco-fetal developmental processes especially with regard to studying cell cycle control, pluripotency maintenance and KIT-KITL signaling. The knowledge presented here contributes to better understanding of the molecular characteristics of TGCC pathogenesis, translating to identification of at risk individuals and enhanced quality of care for TGCC patients (diagnosis, treatment and follow-up).
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin A Rijlaarsdam
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Leendert H J Looijenga
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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36
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Glover JD, Taylor L, Sherman A, Zeiger-Poli C, Sang HM, McGrew MJ. A novel piggyBac transposon inducible expression system identifies a role for AKT signalling in primordial germ cell migration. PLoS One 2013; 8:e77222. [PMID: 24223709 PMCID: PMC3817190 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0077222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In this work, we describe a single piggyBac transposon system containing both a tet-activator and a doxycycline-inducible expression cassette. We demonstrate that a gene product can be conditionally expressed from the integrated transposon and a second gene can be simultaneously targeted by a short hairpin RNA contained within the transposon, both in vivo and in mammalian and avian cell lines. We applied this system to stably modify chicken primordial germ cell (PGC) lines in vitro and induce a reporter gene at specific developmental stages after injection of the transposon-modified germ cells into chicken embryos. We used this vector to express a constitutively-active AKT molecule during PGC migration to the forming gonad. We found that PGC migration was retarded and cells could not colonise the forming gonad. Correct levels of AKT activation are thus essential for germ cell migration during early embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- James D Glover
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Gonocytes (or prospermatogonia) are the precursors to spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), which provide the foundation for spermatogenesis through their ability to both self-renew and generate daughter cells. Despite their relative importance, the regulatory mechanisms that govern gonocyte maintenance and transition to SSCs are poorly understood. Recently, we reported that constitutive activation of NOTCH1 signaling in Sertoli cells causes gonocyte exit from quiescence--the first suggestion of the potential role of this signaling pathway in the testis. This Extra View will review what is known about NOTCH signaling, particularly in Sertoli cells and germ cells in the testes, by providing a background on germ cell biology and a summary of our recently published data on NOTCH1 signaling in Sertoli cells. We also describe additional data showing that aberrant proliferation and differentiation of gonocytes in response to constitutive activation of NOTCH1 signaling in Sertoli cells involves de novo expression of cell cycle proteins and a marked upregulation of the KIT receptor. These data further suggest that NOTCH signaling orchestrates a dynamic balance between maintenance and differentiation of gonocytes in the perinatal testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Xavier Garcia
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Díez-Torre A, Díaz-Núñez M, Eguizábal C, Silván U, Aréchaga J. Evidence for a role of matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in primordial germ cell migration. Andrology 2013; 1:779-86. [PMID: 23843195 DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2013.00109.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2012] [Revised: 05/20/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms that enable migrating cells to reach their targets is of vital importance, as several pathologies, including cardiac defects and some tumours, are consequences of altered cell migration. With a view to evaluating if matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) play a role in the active migration of primordial germ cells (PGCs) from their place of origin in extra-embryonic sites towards their final destination in the developing gonads, we analysed the expression of mRNAs encoding nine MMPs and four TIMPs in migrating (E10.5) and post-migrating (E12.5) PGCs by means of quantitative polymerase chain reaction and the presence of MT1-MMP in the membrane of these cells. Our results show that PGCs express MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-11, MT1-MMP, TIMP-1, TIMP-2 and TIMP-3 at both migrating and non-migrating stages. Comparing expression levels of MMP genes between E10.5 and E12.5 PGCs revealed higher expression in migrating PGCs of MT1- MMP (10.3-fold), MMP-2 (4.8-fold), MMP-11 (3.2-fold) and MMP-9 (2.1-fold). Similarly, the levels of TIMP gene expression were always higher in E12.5 genital ridge somatic cells: TIMP-3 (3.4-fold), TIMP-1 (2.4-fold) and TIMP-2 (1.8-fold). Moreover, the analysis at protein level showed the presence of MT1-MMP in the membrane of migrating PGCs whereas the expression of these metalloproteinase is not detected once the PGCs have reach the urogenital ridges and stop migrating. These results suggest that the change from the motile to non-motile phenotype that occurs during PGC maturation to gonocytes may be mediated in part by enhanced expression of MMPs in migrating PGCs together with higher expression of TIMPs in E12.5 genital ridges.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Díez-Torre
- Laboratory of Stem Cells, Development & Cancer, Department of Cell Biology & Histology, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of the Basque Country, Leioa, Vizcaya, Spain
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McIver SC, Loveland KL, Roman SD, Nixon B, Kitazawa R, McLaughlin EA. The chemokine CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4 are implicated in human seminoma metastasis. Andrology 2013; 1:517-29. [DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2013.00081.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2012] [Revised: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. C. McIver
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology & Development; Discipline of Biological Sciences School of Environmental & Life Sciences; University of Newcastle; Callaghan; NSW; Australia
| | | | - S. D. Roman
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology & Development; Discipline of Biological Sciences School of Environmental & Life Sciences; University of Newcastle; Callaghan; NSW; Australia
| | - B. Nixon
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology & Development; Discipline of Biological Sciences School of Environmental & Life Sciences; University of Newcastle; Callaghan; NSW; Australia
| | - R. Kitazawa
- Division of Molecular Pathology; Graduate School of Medicine; Ehime University; Ehime; Japan
| | - E. A. McLaughlin
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology & Development; Discipline of Biological Sciences School of Environmental & Life Sciences; University of Newcastle; Callaghan; NSW; Australia
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McIver SC, Roman SD, Nixon B, Loveland KL, McLaughlin EA. The rise of testicular germ cell tumours: the search for causes, risk factors and novel therapeutic targets. F1000Res 2013; 2:55. [PMID: 24555040 PMCID: PMC3901536 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.2-55.v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of the 20th century there has been a decline in the reproductive vitality of men within the Western world. The declining sperm quantity and quality has been associated with increased overt disorders of sexual development including hypospadias, undescended testes and type II testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs). The increase in TGCTs cannot be accounted for by genetic changes in the population. Therefore exposure to environmental toxicants appears to be a major contributor to the aetiology of TGCTs and men with a genetic predisposition are particularly vulnerable. In particular, Type II TGCTs have been identified to arise from a precursor lesion Carcinoma
in situ (CIS), identified as a dysfunctional gonocyte; however, the exact triggers for CIS development are currently unknown. Therefore the transition from gonocytes into spermatogonia is key to those studying TGCTs. Recently we have identified seven miRNA molecules (including members of the miR-290 family and miR-136, 463* and 743a) to be significantly changed over this transition period. These miRNA molecules are predicted to have targets within the CXCR4, PTEN, DHH, RAC and PDGF pathways, all of which have important roles in germ cell migration, proliferation and homing to the spermatogonial stem cell niche. Given the plethora of potential targets affected by each miRNA molecule, subtle changes in miRNA expression could have significant consequences e.g. tumourigenesis. The role of non-traditional oncogenes and tumour suppressors such as miRNA in TGCT is highlighted by the fact that the majority of these tumours express wild type p53, a pivotal tumour suppressor usually inactivated in cancer. While treatment of TGCTs is highly successful, the impact of these treatments on fertility means that identification of exact triggers, earlier diagnosis and alternate treatments are essential. This review examines the genetic factors and possible triggers of type II TGCT to highlight target areas for potential new treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skye C McIver
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology & Development, School of Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 2308, Australia
| | - Shaun D Roman
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology & Development, School of Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 2308, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology & Development, School of Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 2308, Australia
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, 3800, Australia ; Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, 3800, Australia
| | - Eileen A McLaughlin
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology & Development, School of Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 2308, Australia
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Chen L, Faire M, Kissner MD, Laird DJ. Primordial germ cells and gastrointestinal stromal tumors respond distinctly to a cKit overactivating allele. Hum Mol Genet 2013; 22:313-27. [PMID: 23077213 PMCID: PMC3526162 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/dds430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2012] [Revised: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 10/08/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
KitL, via its receptor cKit, supports primordial germ cell (PGC) growth, survival, migration and reprogramming to pluripotent embryonic germ cells (EGCs). However, the signaling downstream of KitL and its regulation in PGCs remain unclear. A constitutively activating mutation, cKit(V558Δ), causes gain-of-function phenotypes in mast cells and intestines, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) when heterozygous. Unexpectedly, we find that PGC growth is not significantly affected in cKit(V558Δ) heterozygotes, whereas in homozygotes, increased apoptosis and inefficient migration lead to the depletion of PGCs. Through genetic studies, we reveal that this oncogenic cKit allele exhibits loss-of-function behavior in PGCs distinct from that in GIST development. Examination of downstream signaling in GISTs from cKit(V558Δ/+) mice confirmed hyperphosphorylation of AKT and ERK, but both remain unperturbed in cKit(V558Δ/+) PGCs and EGCs. In contrast, we find reduced activation of ERK1/2 and JNK1 in cKit(V558Δ) homozygous PGCs and EGCs. Inhibiting JNK, though not ERK1/2, increased apoptosis of wild-type PGCs, but did not further affect the already elevated apoptosis of cKit(V558Δ)(/V558Δ) PGCs. These results demonstrate a cell-context-dependent response to the cKit(V558Δ) mutation. We propose that AKT overload protection and JNK-mediated survival comprise PGC-specific mechanisms for regulating cKit signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Diana J. Laird
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143-0667, USA
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Retinoic acid promotes proliferation of chicken primordial germ cells via activation of PI3K/Akt-mediated NF-κB signalling cascade. Cell Biol Int 2012; 36:705-12. [PMID: 22548360 DOI: 10.1042/cbi20110542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
As embryonic progenitors for the gametes, PGCs (primordial germ cells) proliferate and develop under strict regulation of numerous intrinsic and external factors. As the most active natural metabolite of vitamin A, all-trans RA (retinoic acid) plays pivotal roles in regulating development of various cells. The proliferating action of RA on PGCs was investigated along with the intracellular PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase)/Akt (protein kinase B; also known as Akt)-mediated NF-κB (nuclear factor κB) signalling cascade. The results show that RA significantly promoted PGC proliferation in a dose- and time-dependent manner, confirmed by BrdU (bromodeoxyuridine) incorporation and cell cycle analysis. However, this promoting effect was attenuated by sequential inhibitors of LY294002 for PI3K, KP372-1 for Akt and SN50 for NF-κB respectively. Western blot analysis showed increased Akt phosphorylation (Ser473) of PGCs after stimulation with RA, but this was abolished by LY294002 or KP372-1. Treatment with RA increased expression of NF-κB and decreased IκBα (inhibitory κBα) expression, which were inhibited by SN50. Blockade of PI3K or Akt activity inhibited NF-κB translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. Finally, mRNA expression of cell cycle regulating genes [cyclin D1 and E, CDK6 (cyclin-dependent kinase 6) and CDK2] was up-regulated in the RA-treated cells. This stimulation was also markedly retarded by combined treatment with LY294002, KP372-1 and SN50. These results suggest that RA activates the PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signalling cascade to promote proliferation of the cultured chicken PGCs.
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Protein-tyrosine kinase signaling in the biological functions associated with sperm. JOURNAL OF SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION 2012; 2012:181560. [PMID: 23209895 PMCID: PMC3503396 DOI: 10.1155/2012/181560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2012] [Revised: 05/17/2012] [Accepted: 05/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
In sexual reproduction, two gamete cells (i.e., egg and sperm) fuse (fertilization) to create a newborn with a genetic identity distinct from those of the parents. In the course of these developmental processes, a variety of signal transduction events occur simultaneously in each of the two gametes, as well as in the fertilized egg/zygote/early embryo. In particular, a growing body of knowledge suggests that the tyrosine kinase Src and/or other protein-tyrosine kinases are important elements that facilitate successful implementation of the aforementioned processes in many animal species. In this paper, we summarize recent findings on the roles of protein-tyrosine phosphorylation in many sperm-related processes (from spermatogenesis to epididymal maturation, capacitation, acrosomal exocytosis, and fertilization).
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Monget P, Bobe J, Gougeon A, Fabre S, Monniaux D, Dalbies-Tran R. The ovarian reserve in mammals: a functional and evolutionary perspective. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 356:2-12. [PMID: 21840373 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.07.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2011] [Revised: 07/25/2011] [Accepted: 07/27/2011] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The constitution and the control of the ovarian reserve is of importance in mammals and women. In particular, the number of primordial follicles at puberty is positively correlated with the number of growing follicles and their response to gonadotropin treatments. The size of this ovarian reserve depends on genes involved in germ cell proliferation and differentiation, sexual differentiation, meiosis, germ cell degeneration, formation of primordial follicles, and on a potential mechanism of self-renewal of germ stem cells. In this review, we present the state of the art of the knowledge of genes and factors involved in all these processes. We first focus on the almost 70 genes identified mainly by mouse invalidation models, then we discuss the most plausible hypothesis concerning the possibility of the existence of germ cell self-renewal by neo-oogenesis in animal species and human, with a special interest for the role of corresponding genes in evolutionary distinct model species. All of the genes pointed out here are candidates susceptible to explain fertility defects such as the premature ovarian failure in human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Monget
- INRA, UMR85, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France.
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Ror2 enhances polarity and directional migration of primordial germ cells. PLoS Genet 2011; 7:e1002428. [PMID: 22216013 PMCID: PMC3245308 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1002428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2011] [Accepted: 11/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The trafficking of primordial germ cells (PGCs) across multiple embryonic structures to the nascent gonads ensures the transmission of genetic information to the next generation through the gametes, yet our understanding of the mechanisms underlying PGC migration remains incomplete. Here we identify a role for the receptor tyrosine kinase-like protein Ror2 in PGC development. In a Ror2 mouse mutant we isolated in a genetic screen, PGC migration and survival are dysregulated, resulting in a diminished number of PGCs in the embryonic gonad. A similar phenotype in Wnt5a mutants suggests that Wnt5a acts as a ligand to Ror2 in PGCs, although we do not find evidence that WNT5A functions as a PGC chemoattractant. We show that cultured PGCs undergo polarization, elongation, and reorientation in response to the chemotactic factor SCF (secreted KitL), whereas Ror2 PGCs are deficient in these SCF-induced responses. In the embryo, migratory PGCs exhibit a similar elongated geometry, whereas their counterparts in Ror2 mutants are round. The protein distribution of ROR2 within PGCs is asymmetric, both in vitro and in vivo; however, this asymmetry is lost in Ror2 mutants. Together these results indicate that Ror2 acts autonomously to permit the polarized response of PGCs to KitL. We propose a model by which Wnt5a potentiates PGC chemotaxis toward secreted KitL by redistribution of Ror2 within the cell. Egg and sperm derive from precursors in the early embryo called primordial germ cells (PGCs). The mechanisms underlying the migration of PGCs through the embryo to the forming gonads remain unclear. In a genetic screen, we identified a role for the receptor Ror2 and its ligand Wnt5a in promoting PGC colonization of the embryonic gonads. By ex vivo culture, we show that Ror2 acts autonomously in PGCs to enhance their polarized response to the chemotactic factor SCF. Asymmetric distribution of ROR2 within PGCs in vitro and in vivo suggests that signaling via Ror2 locally amplifies cell polarity in response to other directional cues. These studies identify a novel relationship between Ror2 and cKit signaling in polarized migration.
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46
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McIver S, Roman S, Nixon B, McLaughlin E. miRNA and mammalian male germ cells. Hum Reprod Update 2011; 18:44-59. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmr041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Zhang L, Tang J, Haines CJ, Feng HL, Lai L, Teng X, Han Y. c-kit and its related genes in spermatogonial differentiation. SPERMATOGENESIS 2011; 1:186-194. [PMID: 22319667 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.1.3.17760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2011] [Revised: 08/13/2011] [Accepted: 08/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is the process of production of male gametes from SSCs. The SSCs are the stem cells that differentiate into male gametes in the testis. in the mean time, the Spg are remarkable for their potential multiple trans-differentiations, which make them greatly invaluable for clinical applications. However, the molecular mechanism controlling differentiation of the Spg is still not clear. Among the discovered spermatogenesis-related genes, c-kit seems to be expressed first by the Spgs thus may play a central role in switching on the differentiation process. Expression of Kit and the activation of the Kit/Kitl pathway coincide with the start of differentiation of Spgs. Several genes have been discovered to be related to the Kit/Kitl pathway. in this review, we have summarized the recent discoveries of c-kit and the Kit/Kitl pathway-related genes in the spermatogenic cells during different stages of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; Prince of Wales Hospital; The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong
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48
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Gilbert D, Rapley E, Shipley J. Testicular germ cell tumours: predisposition genes and the male germ cell niche. Nat Rev Cancer 2011; 11:278-88. [PMID: 21412254 DOI: 10.1038/nrc3021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) of adults and adolescents are putatively derived from primordial germ cells or gonocytes. Recently reported genome-wide association studies implicate six gene loci that predispose to TGCT development. Remarkably, the functions of proteins encoded by genes within these regions bridge our understanding between the pathways involved in primordial germ cell physiology, male germ cell development and the molecular pathology of TGCTs. Furthermore, this improved understanding of the mechanisms underlying TGCT development and dissemination has clinical relevance for the management of patients with these tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan Gilbert
- Sussex Cancer Centre, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Eastern Road, Brighton BN2 5BE, East Sussex, UK
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Rengaraj D, Lee BR, Park KJ, Lee SI, Kang KS, Choi JW, Kang SJ, Song G, Han JY. The distribution of neuron-specific gene family member 1 in brain and germ cells: Implications for the regulation of germ-line development by brain. Dev Dyn 2011; 240:850-61. [DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.22575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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50
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Strauss TJ, Castrillon DH, Hammes SR. GATA-like protein-1 (GLP-1) is required for normal germ cell development during embryonic oogenesis. Reproduction 2011; 141:173-81. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Oogenesis and primordial follicle formation are tightly linked processes, requiring organized and precisely timed communication between somatic and germ cells. Deviations in ovarian cell cross talk, or aberrant gene expression within one of the cell populations, can lead to follicle loss or dysfunction, resulting in infertility. Expression of GATA-like protein-1 (GLP-1) in ovarian somatic cells is required for normal fertility in female mice, as GLP-1 deficiency leads to the absence of oocytes at birth. However, the timing and nature of this germ cell loss is not well understood. In this study, we characterize the embryonic germ cell loss in GLP-1 null mice. Quantitative PCR demonstrates that ovarian Glp-1 mRNA is expressed in a bimodal pattern during embryogenesis, peaking at E13.5–14.5 and again at birth. In contrast, adult ovaries express low but detectable levels of Glp-1 mRNA. Analysis of developing GLP-1 null mouse ovaries shows that germ cells are appropriately specified and migrate normally to nascent gonads. Upon arrival at the gonad, precocious loss of germ cells begins at around E13.5. This loss is completed by birth and is accompanied by defects in the expression of genes associated with meiotic entry. Interestingly, somatic pregranulosa cells still form basement membranes surrounding germ line cysts and express mRNA encoding paracrine signaling molecules that communicate with oocytes, albeit at lower levels than normal. Together, these data imply that the somatic cell protein GLP-1 is not necessary for many pregranulosa cell functions but is required for germ cell survival.
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