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Wijayarathna R, Hedger MP. New aspects of activin biology in epididymal function and immunopathology. Andrology 2023. [PMID: 37644728 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The activins (A and B) and their binding protein, follistatin, play crucial roles in development, immunoregulation and inflammation throughout the body. In the male reproductive tract of the mouse, activin A and B production is largely confined to the initial segment and proximal caput of the epididymis and the efferent ducts, under normal conditions, with very low expression in the corpus, cauda and vas deferens. However, activin A protein is present throughout the epididymis and vas deferens and is largely associated with the epithelium and interstitial macrophages. Conversely, the activin-binding protein follistatin is produced in the distal epididymis, with very high expression in the vas deferens. Activin activity in the distal tract is inhibited by follistatin, and the activin-follistatin balance is important for regulating coiling of the duct during epididymal development. In further experiments, as described in this report, in situ hybridisation was used to localise activin A mRNA principally to cells in the periductal zone and interstitium in the efferent ducts and proximal caput. Activin B mRNA, on the other hand, was localised to periductal cells in the efferent ducts and proximal epididymis and, most notably, to epithelial cells in the initial segment. Activin A is implicated in the regulation of mononuclear phagocyte function and immune responses in the caput and stimulates the expression of the key immunoregulatory protein, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase in this region. Activin A production in the corpus and cauda increases dramatically during bacterial epididymitis in mice, promoting inflammation and fibrosis and causing damage to the epithelium and obstruction of the epididymal duct. Consequently, it appears that the activin-follistatin axis is crucial for maintaining normal epididymal structure and function, but disruption of this balance during inflammation has deleterious effects on male fertility. Follistatin has therapeutic potential in ameliorating the proinflammatory and profibrotic effects of activins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rukmali Wijayarathna
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia
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2
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McMinn PH, Ahmed A, Huttenlocher A, Beebe DJ, Kerr SC. The lymphatic endothelium-derived follistatin: activin A axis regulates neutrophil motility in response to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Integr Biol (Camb) 2023; 15:zyad003. [PMID: 36781971 PMCID: PMC10101905 DOI: 10.1093/intbio/zyad003] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
The lymphatic system plays an active role during infection, however the role of lymphatic-neutrophil interactions in host-defense responses is not well understood. During infection with pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Yersinia pestis, neutrophils traffic from sites of infection through the lymphatic vasculature, to draining lymph nodes to interact with resident lymphocytes. This process is poorly understood, in part, due to the lack of in vitro models of the lymphatic system. Here we use a 3D microscale lymphatic vessel model to examine neutrophil-lymphatic cell interactions during host defense responses to pathogens. In previous work, we have shown that follistatin is secreted at high concentrations by lymphatic endothelial cells during inflammation. Follistatin inhibits activin A, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, and, together, these molecules form a signaling pathway that plays a role in regulating both innate and adaptive immune responses. Although follistatin and activin A are constitutively produced in the pituitary, gonads and skin, their major source in the serum and their effects on neutrophils are poorly understood. Here we report a microfluidic model that includes both blood and lymphatic endothelial vessels, and neutrophils to investigate neutrophil-lymphatic trafficking during infection with P. aeruginosa. We found that lymphatic endothelial cells produce secreted factors that increase neutrophil migration toward P. aeruginosa, and are a significant source of both follistatin and activin A during Pseudomonas infection. We determined that follistatin produced by lymphatic endothelial cells inhibits activin A, resulting in increased neutrophil migration. These data suggest that the follistatin:activin A ratio influences neutrophil trafficking during infection with higher ratios increasing neutrophil migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick H McMinn
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Adeel Ahmed
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Anna Huttenlocher
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David J Beebe
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sheena C Kerr
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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3
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Crucial Convolution: Genetic and Molecular Mechanisms of Coiling during Epididymis Formation and Development in Embryogenesis. J Dev Biol 2022; 10:jdb10020025. [PMID: 35735916 PMCID: PMC9225329 DOI: 10.3390/jdb10020025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As embryonic development proceeds, numerous organs need to coil, bend or fold in order to establish their final shape. Generally, this occurs so as to maximise the surface area for absorption or secretory functions (e.g., in the small and large intestines, kidney or epididymis); however, mechanisms of bending and shaping also occur in other structures, notably the midbrain–hindbrain boundary in some teleost fish models such as zebrafish. In this review, we will examine known genetic and molecular factors that operate to pattern complex, coiled structures, with a primary focus on the epididymis as an excellent model organ to examine coiling. We will also discuss genetic mechanisms involving coiling in the seminiferous tubules and intestine to establish the final form and function of these coiled structures in the mature organism.
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Aldahhan RA, Stanton PG, Ludlow H, de Kretser DM, Hedger MP. Experimental Cryptorchidism Causes Chronic Inflammation and a Progressive Decline in Sertoli Cell and Leydig Cell Function in the Adult Rat Testis. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:2916-2928. [PMID: 34008157 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00616-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cryptorchidism causes spermatogenic failure and reduced serum androgen levels, as well as testicular oedema and fibrosis, which are hallmarks of inflammation. However, the role of inflammation and the effects of cryptorchidism on Sertoli cell and Leydig cell function at the molecular level remain ill-defined. Bilateral cryptorchidism was surgically induced in adult rats for 7 and 14 weeks. Testis weights decreased to 40% of normal within 7 weeks, due to loss of all developing spermatogenic cells except spermatogonia, but did not decrease further at 14 weeks. Serum FSH and LH were increased at both time points, consistent with a loss of feedback by inhibin and testosterone. This damage was accompanied by progressive accumulation of interstitial fluid and peritubular fibrosis, and a progressive decline of several critical Sertoli cell genes (Sox9, Inha (inhbin α-subunit), Cldn11 (claudin 11), Gja1 (connexin 43), and Il1a (interleukin-1α)) and the Leydig cell steroidogenic enzymes, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, and Hs17b3. Activin B and the activin-binding protein, follistatin, also declined, but the intratesticular concentration of activin A, which is a regulator of inflammatory responses, was largely unaffected at either time point. Expression of genes involved in inflammation (Tnf, Il10, Il1b, Mcp1) and fibrosis (Acta2, Col1a1) were considerably elevated at both time points. These data indicate that induction of experimental cryptorchidism, which causes complete failure of spermatogenesis in the adult rat, also induces chronic testicular inflammation, manifesting in oedema and fibrosis, and a progressive decline of Sertoli and Leydig cell gene expression and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashid A Aldahhan
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia. .,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia. .,Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 2114, Dammam, 31541, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Peter G Stanton
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - David M de Kretser
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Zou DX, Meng XD, Xie Y, Liu R, Duan JL, Bao CJ, Liu YX, Du YF, Xu JR, Luo Q, Zhao CJ, Zhang Z, Ma S, Yang WP, Lin RC, Lu WL. Schisandrin B for the treatment of male infertility. Clin Transl Med 2021; 11:e333. [PMID: 33634998 PMCID: PMC7901724 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Di-Xin Zou
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Xue-Dan Meng
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100102, China
| | - Ying Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Maolecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug System, and Scool of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Rui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Maolecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug System, and Scool of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jia-Lun Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Maolecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug System, and Scool of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Chun-Jie Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Maolecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug System, and Scool of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yi-Xuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Maolecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug System, and Scool of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ya-Fei Du
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Maolecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug System, and Scool of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jia-Rui Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Maolecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug System, and Scool of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Qian Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Maolecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug System, and Scool of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Chong-Jun Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100102, China
| | - Zhan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Maolecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug System, and Scool of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Shuang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Maolecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug System, and Scool of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Wei-Peng Yang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Rui-Chao Lin
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100102, China
| | - Wan-Liang Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Maolecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug System, and Scool of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
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He J, Liu Q, Yu S, Lei M, Liu J, Di R, Ge Z, Hu W, Wang X, Liu N, Chu M. Expression and functional analysis of the Follistatin-like 3 (FSTL3) gene in the sheep ovary during the oestrous cycle. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 56:427-436. [PMID: 33314336 PMCID: PMC7986853 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Follistatin‐like 3 (FSTL3) is a regulator of cellular apoptosis and was previously identified via RNA‐Seq to be associated with follicular development in mammalian ovaries. However, the mechanism underlying the FSTL3 regulation of oestrus in sheep remained poorly understood. In this study, the oestrogen (E2) and progesterone (P4) concentrations in blood were detected, and the expression level and functional analysis of FSTL3 in the ovary were studied during the different reproductive stage in Aohan fine wool sheep (seasonal breeding breed in China). The concentrations of E2 and P4 at the anestrus were significantly lower compared to dioestrus, proestrus and oestrus stages. Higher expression levels of FSTL3 were observed in the sheep ovary, hypothalamus, and thyroid. During different reproductive stages, higher expression levels were found during the stages of dioestrus and proestrus, while lower levels were found during the oestrus and anestrus stages. Functional analysis of FSTL3 was performed in primary granulosa cells (GCs) of sheep. The concentration of E2 increased significantly after RNAi interference of FSTL3, while the P4 level decreased. FSTL3 can decrease P4 levels, which might be involved in mediating oestrous cycle in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianning He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qiuyue Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shunyu Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Mengyuan Lei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jifeng Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ran Di
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaojia Ge
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wenping Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
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7
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Zhao H, Yu C, He C, Mei C, Liao A, Huang D. The Immune Characteristics of the Epididymis and the Immune Pathway of the Epididymitis Caused by Different Pathogens. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2115. [PMID: 33117332 PMCID: PMC7561410 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is an important male accessory sex organ where sperm motility and fertilization ability develop. When spermatozoa carrying foreign antigens enter the epididymis, the epididymis shows "immune privilege" to tolerate them. It is well-known that a tolerogenic environment exists in the caput epididymis, while pro-inflammatory circumstances prefer the cauda epididymis. This meticulously regulated immune environment not only protects spermatozoa from autoimmunity but also defends spermatozoa against pathogenic damage. Epididymitis is one of the common causes of male infertility. Up to 40% of patients suffer from permanent oligospermia or azoospermia. This is related to the immune characteristics of the epididymis itself. Moreover, epididymitis induced by different pathogenic microbial infections has different characteristics. This article elaborates on the distribution and immune response characteristics of epididymis immune cells, the role of epididymis epithelial cells (EECs), and the epididymis defense against different pathogenic infections (such as uropathogenic Escherichia coli, Chlamydia trachomatis, and viruses to provide therapeutic approaches for epididymitis and its subsequent fertility problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Caiqian Yu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyu He
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunlei Mei
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Donghui Huang
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Voisin A, Saez F, Drevet JR, Guiton R. The epididymal immune balance: a key to preserving male fertility. Asian J Androl 2020; 21:531-539. [PMID: 30924450 PMCID: PMC6859654 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_11_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Up to 15% of male infertility has an immunological origin, either due to repetitive infections or to autoimmune responses mainly affecting the epididymis, prostate, and testis. Clinical observations and epidemiological data clearly contradict the idea that the testis confers immune protection to the whole male genital tract. As a consequence, the epididymis, in which posttesticular spermatozoa mature and are stored, has raised some interest in recent years when it comes to its immune mechanisms. Indeed, sperm cells are produced at puberty, long after the establishment of self-tolerance, and they possess unique surface proteins that cannot be recognized as self. These are potential targets of the immune system, with the risk of inducing autoantibodies and consequently male infertility. Epididymal immunity is based on a finely tuned equilibrium between efficient immune responses to pathogens and strong tolerance to sperm cells. These processes rely on incompletely described molecules and cell types. This review compiles recent studies focusing on the immune cell types populating the epididymis, and proposes hypothetical models of the organization of epididymal immunity with a special emphasis on the immune response, while also discussing important aspects of the epididymal immune regulation such as tolerance and tumour control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Voisin
- Team Mechanisms of Posttesticular Infertility, GReD Laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103, University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand 63001, France
| | - Fabrice Saez
- Team Mechanisms of Posttesticular Infertility, GReD Laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103, University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand 63001, France
| | - Joël R Drevet
- Team Mechanisms of Posttesticular Infertility, GReD Laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103, University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand 63001, France
| | - Rachel Guiton
- Team Mechanisms of Posttesticular Infertility, GReD Laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103, University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand 63001, France
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9
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Voisin A, Damon-Soubeyrand C, Bravard S, Saez F, Drevet JR, Guiton R. Differential expression and localisation of TGF-β isoforms and receptors in the murine epididymis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:995. [PMID: 31969637 PMCID: PMC6976608 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-57839-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Testes produce spermatozoa that transit through and are stored in the epididymis where they acquire their fertilising capacities. Spermatozoa appear in the genital tract at puberty, long after the immune system was trained to self-antigens. As a consequence, this organ has to set strategies to tolerate sperm antigens to avoid autoimmune responses that would specifically target and destroy them. A recent study pointed the Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) signalling in the dendritic cells as a crucial mechanism for epididymal tolerance to spermatozoa. In the mouse, TGF-β exists under three isoforms, and three distinct receptors have been described. Using RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry and ELISA techniques, we investigated the expression and spatial distribution of the epididymal TGF-β isoforms and of their receptors in young and adult mice. We showed that both ligands and receptors were produced by immune and non-immune cells in the epididymis, whatever the age mice have. These data bring new clues as to the mechanisms of peripheral tolerance to sperm cells in the murine epididymis and raise potential other implications of the cytokine isoforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Voisin
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex, France
| | - Christelle Damon-Soubeyrand
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex, France
| | - Stéphanie Bravard
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex, France
| | - Fabrice Saez
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex, France
| | - Joël R Drevet
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex, France.
| | - Rachel Guiton
- GReD laboratory, CNRS UMR 6293 - INSERM U1103 - Université Clermont Auvergne, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex, France.
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10
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Aldahhan RA, Stanton PG, Ludlow H, de Kretser DM, Hedger MP. Acute heat-treatment disrupts inhibin-related protein production and gene expression in the adult rat testis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 498:110546. [PMID: 31422101 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Heat reversibly disrupts spermatogenesis, but the effects on Sertoli cell (SC) function and inhibin/activin-related proteins are less well-defined. Adult rat testis weights decreased by 40% within 2 weeks after heat-treatment (43 °C, 15 min), due to loss of pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. Coincident effects were reduced SC nuclear volume at one week and >50% reduction in expression of several critical SC genes (Inha, Cld11, Gja1, Tjp1, Cldn3) by 2 weeks. Leydig cell steroidogenic enzymes, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, were also reduced. Activin gene expression was unaffected at this time, but expression of the activin-binding protein, follistatin (Fst), increased >2-fold. At 4-8 weeks, coincident with the recovery of spermatocytes and early spermatids, but progressive loss of elongated spermatids, most SC genes had recovered; however, testicular activin A was reduced and activin B increased. At 8 weeks, serum inhibin was decreased and, consequently, serum FSH increased. Crucially, germ cell damage was not associated with a significant inflammatory response. At 14 weeks, most testicular parameters had returned to normal, but testis weights remained slightly reduced. These data indicate that, following acute heat-treatment, expression of several key Sertoli and Leydig cell genes declined in parallel with the initial loss of meiotic germ cells, whereas activins were responsive to the subsequent loss of mature spermatids, leading to an increase in testicular activin B production relative to activin A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashid A Aldahhan
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Peter G Stanton
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - David M de Kretser
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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11
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Wijayarathna R, Hedger MP. Activins, follistatin and immunoregulation in the epididymis. Andrology 2019; 7:703-711. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Wijayarathna
- Centre for Reproductive Health Hudson Institute of Medical Research Clayton Vic. Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences School of Clinical Sciences Monash University Clayton Vic. Australia
| | - M. P. Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health Hudson Institute of Medical Research Clayton Vic. Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences School of Clinical Sciences Monash University Clayton Vic. Australia
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12
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Wijayarathna R, de Kretser DM, Meinhardt A, Middendorff R, Ludlow H, Groome NP, Loveland KA, Hedger MP. Activin over-expression in the testis of mice lacking the inhibin α-subunit gene is associated with androgen deficiency and regression of the male reproductive tract. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 470:188-198. [PMID: 29111388 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Regionalised interaction of the activins, follistatin and inhibin was investigated in the male reproductive tract of mice lacking the inhibin α-subunit (Inha-/-). Serum and intratesticular activin B, although not activin A and follistatin, were increased in Inha-/- mice at 25 days of age, but all three proteins were elevated at 56 days. None of these proteins were altered within the epididymis and vas deferens at either age. At 25 days, histology of the epididymis and vas deferens was similar to wild-type. At 56 days, the testis contained extensive somatic cell tumours, leading to Leydig cell regression and testosterone deficiency. The epididymis and vas deferens showed epithelial regression and increased prominence of the interstitial stroma. Immunoregulatory and fibrotic gene expression in the epididymis and vas deferens were unchanged. Thus, absence of the inhibin α-subunit has marginal effects on activins in the epididymis and vas deferens, and regression of these tissues is associated with androgen deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rukmali Wijayarathna
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany.
| | - David M de Kretser
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ralf Middendorff
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | | | | | - Kate A Loveland
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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13
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Wijayarathna R, de Kretser DM, Sreenivasan R, Ludlow H, Middendorff R, Meinhardt A, Loveland KL, Hedger MP. Comparative analysis of activins A and B in the adult mouse epididymis and vas deferens. Reproduction 2018; 155:15-23. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Revised: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Activin A regulates testicular and epididymal development, but the role of activin B in the epididymis and vas deferens is unknown. Mouse models with reduced activin A (Inhba+/− and InhbaBK/+), or its complete absence (InhbaBK/BK), were investigated to identify specific roles of activins in the male reproductive tract. In 8-week-old Inhba+/− mice, serum activin A decreased by 70%, with a 50% reduction of gene expression and protein in the testis, epididymis and vas deferens. Activin B and the activin-binding protein, follistatin, were similar to wild-type. Testis weights were slightly reduced in Inhba+/− mice, but the epididymis and vas deferens were normal, while the mice were fertile. Activin A was decreased by 70% in the serum, testis, epididymis and vas deferens of InhbaBK/+ mice and was undetectable in InhbaBK/BK mice, but activin B and follistatin levels were similar to wild-type. In 6-week-old InhbaBK/BK mice, testis weights were 60% lower and epididymal weights were 50% lower than in either InhbaBK/+ or wild-type mice. The cauda epididymal epithelium showed infoldings and less intra-luminal sperm, similar to 3.5-week-old wild-type mice, but at 8 weeks, no structural differences in the testis or epididymis were noted between InhbaBK/BK and wild-type mice. Thus, Inhbb can compensate for Inhba in regulating epididymal morphology, although testis and epididymal maturation is delayed in mice lacking Inhba. Crucially, reduction or absence of activin A, at least in the presence of normal activin B levels, does not lead to major defects in the adult epididymis or vas deferens.
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14
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Nicolas N, Muir JA, Hayward S, Chen JL, Stanton PG, Gregorevic P, de Kretser DM, Loveland KL, Bhushan S, Meinhardt A, Fijak M, Hedger MP. Induction of experimental autoimmune orchitis in mice: responses to elevated circulating levels of the activin-binding protein, follistatin. Reproduction 2017; 154:293-305. [PMID: 28667125 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is a rodent model of chronic testicular inflammation that mimics the pathology observed in some types of human infertility. In a previous study, testicular expression of the inflammatory/immunoregulatory cytokine, activin A, was elevated in adult mice during the onset of EAO, indicating a potential role in the regulation of the disease. Consequently, we examined the development of EAO in mice with elevated levels of follistatin, an endogenous activin antagonist, as a potential therapeutic approach to testicular inflammation. Prior to EAO induction, mice received a single intramuscular injection of a non-replicative recombinant adeno-associated viral vector carrying a gene cassette of the circulating form of follistatin, FST315 (FST group). Serum follistatin levels were increased 5-fold in the FST group compared with the control empty vector (EV) group at 30 and 50 days of EAO, but intra-testicular levels of follistatin or activin A were not significantly altered. Induction of EAO was reduced, but not prevented, with mild-to-severe damage in 75% of the EV group and 40% of the FST group, at 50 days following immunisation with testicular homogenate. However, the EAO damage score (based on disruption of the blood-testis barrier, apoptosis, testicular damage and fibrosis) and extent of intratesticular inflammation (expression of inflammatory mediators) were directly proportional to the levels of activin A measured in the testis at 50 days. These data implicate activin A in the progression of EAO, thereby providing a potential therapeutic target; however, elevating circulating follistatin levels were not sufficient to prevent EAO development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour Nicolas
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - Julie A Muir
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - Susan Hayward
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - Justin L Chen
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Paul Gregorevic
- Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David M de Kretser
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - Monika Fijak
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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15
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Activins A and B, members of the TGF-β superfamily, are produced as part of the physiological response to tissue damage and the resulting proinflammatory response. Given that lung allograft reperfusion results in an inflammatory response, it is likely that the activins and their binding protein follistatin will form part of the regulatory response. There is a need to document the response of these proteins to allograft reperfusion to determine if there is a role for the use of follistatin to control the biological actions of the activins because some of these are potentially damaging. METHODS Serum from 48 consecutive patients undergoing lung transplantation (LTx) was collected at 2, 6, 12, and 26 weeks post-LTx. The serum levels of activin A and B and follistatin were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and specific radioimmunoassays and compared with clinical events. RESULTS Serum activin A and B levels were at the upper limit of the normal ranges at 2 weeks post-LTx decreasing thereafter to 12 weeks post-LTx (P < 0.05). In contrast, serum follistatin levels were unchanged between 2 and 12 weeks, with a late significant increase at 24 week post-LTx (P < 0.01). Patients with primary graft dysfunction had lower serum follistatin levels (7.7 vs 9.5 ng/mL; P = 0.04) and a higher activin A/follistatin ratio (13.1 vs 10.4; P = 0.02) at 2 weeks post-LTx. CONCLUSIONS Activin and follistatin levels vary with time form LTX and reflect a proinflammatory environment. Future studies will elucidate associations with chronic lung allograft dysfunction and the therapeutic potential of exogenous follistatin administration.
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Maresch CC, Stute DC, Ludlow H, Hammes HP, de Kretser DM, Hedger MP, Linn T. Hyperglycemia is associated with reduced testicular function and activin dysregulation in the Ins2 Akita+/- mouse model of type 1 diabetes. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 446:91-101. [PMID: 28214591 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Revised: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is associated with subfertility in men. We hypothesised that this results from inhibitory effects of chronic hyperglycemia on testicular function and used the Ins2Akita+/- mouse model to investigate this. Diabetic mice exhibited progressive testicular dysfunction, with a 30% reduction in testis weight at 24 weeks of age. Diabetic mice showed significantly reduced seminiferous tubule diameters and increased spermatogenic disruption, although testes morphology appeared grossly normal. Unexpectedly, serum LH and intra-testicular testosterone were similar in all groups. Ins2Akita+/- mice displayed elevation of the testicular inflammatory cytokines activin A and IL-6. Intratesticular activin B was downregulated, while the activin regulatory proteins, follistatin and inhibin, were unchanged. Activin signalling, measured by pSmad3 and Smad4 production, was enhanced in diabetic mice only. These results suggest that prolonged exposure to hyperglycemia in the Ins2Akita+/- mice leads to progressive testicular disruption mediated by testicular activin activity, rather than hormonal dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constanze C Maresch
- Clinical Research Unit, Centre of Internal Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany; Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Dina C Stute
- Clinical Research Unit, Centre of Internal Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Hans-Peter Hammes
- V. Medical Dept., Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - David M de Kretser
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Thomas Linn
- Clinical Research Unit, Centre of Internal Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
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17
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Wijayarathna R, Sarraj MA, Genovese R, Girling JE, Michel V, Ludlow H, Loveland KL, Meinhardt A, de Kretser DM, Hedger MP. Activin and follistatin interactions in the male reproductive tract: activin expression and morphological abnormalities in mice lacking follistatin 288. Andrology 2017; 5:578-588. [PMID: 28235253 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Activin A is an important regulator of testicular and epididymal development and function, as well as inflammation and immunity. In the adult murine reproductive tract, activin A mRNA (Inhba) expression levels are highest in the caput epididymis and decrease progressively towards the distal vas deferens. The activin-binding protein, follistatin (FST), shows the opposite expression pattern, with exceptionally high levels of the Fst288 mRNA variant in the vas deferens. This unique pattern of expression suggests that activin A and follistatin, in particular FST288, play region-specific roles in regulating the epididymis and vas deferens. The cellular distribution of activin and follistatin and structural organization of the male reproductive tract was examined in wild-type and transgenic (TghFST315) mice lacking FST288. Compared to wild-type littermates, TghFST315 mice showed a 50% reduction in serum follistatin and a significant elevation of both activin A and B. Testicular, epididymal and seminal vesicle weights were reduced, but intra-testicular testosterone was normal. A decrease in the epididymal duct diameter in the corpus and thickening of the peritubular smooth muscle in the cauda, together with increased coiling of the proximal vas deferens, were observed in TghFST315 mice. No immune cell infiltrates were detected. Immunohistochemistry indicated that epithelial cells are the main source of activins and follistatin in the epididymis and vas deferens. Activin A, but not activin B, was also localized to sperm heads in the lumen of the epididymis and vas deferens. Expression of Inhba and another immunoregulatory gene, indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (Ido-1), was increased approximately twofold in the TghFST315 caput epididymis, but several other genes associated with immunoregulation, inflammation or fibrosis were unaffected. Our novel data indicate that disruption of follistatin expression has significant effects on the testis and epididymis, and suggest an association between activin A and indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase in the caput epididymis, with implications for the epididymal immunoenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Wijayarathna
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - M A Sarraj
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - R Genovese
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - J E Girling
- Gynaecology Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne and Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - V Michel
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - H Ludlow
- Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - K L Loveland
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - A Meinhardt
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - D M de Kretser
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - M P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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18
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Testicular activin and follistatin levels are elevated during the course of experimental autoimmune epididymo-orchitis in mice. Sci Rep 2017; 7:42391. [PMID: 28205525 PMCID: PMC5304336 DOI: 10.1038/srep42391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune epididymo-orchitis (EAEO) is a model of chronic inflammation, induced by immunisation with testicular antigens, which reproduces the pathology of some types of human infertility. Activins A and B regulate spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis, but are also pro-inflammatory, pro-fibrotic cytokines. Expression of the activins and their endogenous antagonists, inhibin and follistatin, was examined in murine EAEO. Adult untreated and adjuvant-treated control mice showed no pathology. All mice immunised with testis antigens developed EAEO by 50 days, characterised by loss of germ cells, immune cell infiltration and fibrosis in the testis, similar to biopsies from human inflamed testis. An increase of total CD45+ leukocytes, comprising CD3+ T cells, CD4 + CD8− and CD4 + CD25+ T cells, and a novel population of CD4 + CD8+ double positive T cells was also detected in EAEO testes. This was accompanied by increased expression of TNF, MCP-1 and IL-10. Activin A and B and follistatin protein levels were elevated in EAEO testes, with peak activin expression during the active phase of the disease, whereas mRNA expression of the inhibin B subunits (Inha and Inhbb) and activin receptor subunits (Acvr1b and Acvr2b) were downregulated. These data suggest that activin–follistatin regulation may play a role during the development of EAEO.
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19
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Michel V, Duan Y, Stoschek E, Bhushan S, Middendorff R, Young JM, Loveland KL, Kretser DMD, Hedger MP, Meinhardt A. UropathogenicEscherichia colicauses fibrotic remodelling of the epididymis. J Pathol 2016; 240:15-24. [DOI: 10.1002/path.4748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Revised: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Vera Michel
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology; Justus-Liebig-University Giessen; Germany
| | - Yonggang Duan
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University; Shenzhen Second People's Hospital; People's Republic of China
| | - Elke Stoschek
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology; Justus-Liebig-University Giessen; Germany
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology; Justus-Liebig-University Giessen; Germany
| | - Ralf Middendorff
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology; Justus-Liebig-University Giessen; Germany
| | - Julia M Young
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - David M De Kretser
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology; Justus-Liebig-University Giessen; Germany
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research; Melbourne Victoria Australia
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20
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Schagdarsurengin U, Western P, Steger K, Meinhardt A. Developmental origins of male subfertility: role of infection, inflammation, and environmental factors. Semin Immunopathol 2016; 38:765-781. [PMID: 27315198 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-016-0576-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Male gamete development begins with the specification of primordial cells in the epiblast of the early embryo and is not complete until spermatozoa mature in the epididymis of adult males. This protracted developmental process involves extensive alteration of the paternal germline epigenome. Initially, epigenetic reprogramming in fetal germ cells results in removal of most DNA methylation, including parent-specific epigenetic information. The germ cells then establish sex-specific epigenetic information through de novo methylation and undergo spermatogenesis. Chromatin in haploid germ cells is repackaged into protamines during spermiogenesis, providing further widespread epigenetic reorganization. Finally, after fertilization, epigenetic reprogramming in the preimplantation embryo is necessary for regaining totipotency. These events provide substantial windows during which epigenetic errors either may be corrected or may occur in the germline. There is now increasing evidence that environmental factors such as exposure to toxicants, the parents' and individual's diet, and even infectious and inflammatory events in the male reproductive tract may influence epigenetic reprogramming. This, together with other damage inflicted on the germline chromatin, may result in negative consequences for fertility and health. Large epidemiological birth cohort studies have yielded insight into possible causative environmental factors. Together with experimental animal studies, a clearer view of environmental impacts on fetal development and their intergenerational and even transgenerational effects on reproductive health has emerged and is reviewed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Undraga Schagdarsurengin
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Section Molecular Andrology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Patrick Western
- Centre for Genetic Diseases, Hudson Institute for Medical Research and Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Klaus Steger
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Section Molecular Andrology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35385, Giessen, Germany.
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21
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Michel V, Pilatz A, Hedger MP, Meinhardt A. Epididymitis: revelations at the convergence of clinical and basic sciences. Asian J Androl 2016; 17:756-63. [PMID: 26112484 PMCID: PMC4577585 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.155770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute epididymitis represents a common medical condition in the urological outpatient clinic. Mostly, epididymitis is caused by bacterial ascent through the urogenital tract, with pathogens originating either from sexually transmitted diseases or urinary tract infections. Although conservative antimicrobial therapy is possible in the majority of patients and is usually sufficient to eradicate the pathogen, studies have shown persistent oligozoospermia and azoospermia in up to 40% of these patients. Animal models of epididymitis are created to delineate the underlying reasons for this observation and the additional impairment of sperm function that is often associated with the disease. Accumulated data provide evidence of a differential expression of immune cells, immunoregulatory genes and pathogen-sensing molecules along the length of the epididymal duct. The evidence suggests that a tolerogenic environment exists in the caput epididymidis, but that inflammatory responses are most intense toward the cauda epididymidis. This is consistent with the need to provide protection for the neo-antigens of spermatozoa emerging from the testis, without compromising the ability to respond to ascending infections. However, severe inflammatory responses, particularly in the cauda, may lead to collateral damage to the structure and function of the epididymis. Convergence of the clinical observations with appropriate animal studies should lead to better understanding of the immunological environment throughout the epididymis, the parameters underlying susceptibility to epididymitis, and to therapeutic approaches that can mitigate epididymal damage and subsequent fertility problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology; Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, 35385 Giessen, Germany
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22
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Wijayarathna R, de Kretser DM. Activins in reproductive biology and beyond. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:342-57. [PMID: 26884470 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Activins are members of the pleiotrophic family of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily of cytokines, initially isolated for their capacity to induce the release of FSH from pituitary extracts. Subsequent research has demonstrated that activins are involved in multiple biological functions including the control of inflammation, fibrosis, developmental biology and tumourigenesis. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the roles of activin in reproductive and developmental biology. It also discusses interesting advances in the field of modulating the bioactivity of activins as a therapeutic target, which would undoubtedly be beneficial for patients with reproductive pathology. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was carried out using PUBMED and Google Scholar databases to identify studies in the English language which have contributed to the advancement of the field of activin biology, since its initial isolation in 1987 until July 2015. 'Activin', 'testis', 'ovary', 'embryonic development' and 'therapeutic targets' were used as the keywords in combination with other search phrases relevant to the topic of activin biology. RESULTS Activins, which are dimers of inhibin β subunits, act via a classical TGF-β signalling pathway. The bioactivity of activin is regulated by two endogenous inhibitors, inhibin and follistatin. Activin is a major regulator of testicular and ovarian development. In the ovary, activin A promotes oocyte maturation and regulates granulosa cell steroidogenesis. It is also essential in endometrial repair following menstruation, decidualization and maintaining pregnancy. Dysregulation of the activin-follistatin-inhibin system leads to disorders of female reproduction and pregnancy, including polycystic ovary syndrome, ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, fetal growth restriction, gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia and pre-term birth. Moreover, a rise in serum activin A, accompanied by elevated FSH, is characteristic of female reproductive aging. In the male, activin A is an autocrine and paracrine modulator of germ cell development and Sertoli cell proliferation. Disruption of normal activin signalling is characteristic of many tumours affecting reproductive organs, including endometrial carcinoma, cervical cancer, testicular and ovarian cancer as well as prostate cancer. While activin A and B aid the progression of many tumours of the reproductive organs, activin C acts as a tumour suppressor. Activins are important in embryonic induction, morphogenesis of branched glandular organs, development of limbs and nervous system, craniofacial and dental development and morphogenesis of the Wolffian duct. CONCLUSIONS The field of activin biology has advanced considerably since its initial discovery as an FSH stimulating agent. Now, activin is well known as a growth factor and cytokine that regulates many aspects of reproductive biology, developmental biology and also inflammation and immunological mechanisms. Current research provides evidence for novel roles of activins in maintaining the structure and function of reproductive and other organ systems. The fact that activin A is elevated both locally as well as systemically in major disorders of the reproductive system makes it an important biomarker. Given the established role of activin A as a pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic agent, studies of its involvement in disorders of reproduction resulting from these processes should be examined. Follistatin, as a key regulator of the biological actions of activin, should be evaluated as a therapeutic agent in conditions where activin A overexpression is established as a contributing factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Wijayarathna
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31, Wright Street, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - D M de Kretser
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31, Wright Street, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
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23
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Hedger MP. The Immunophysiology of Male Reproduction. KNOBIL AND NEILL'S PHYSIOLOGY OF REPRODUCTION 2015. [PMCID: PMC7158304 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-397175-3.00019-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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24
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Li X, Wang J, Liu H, Wang H, Sun L, Yang C, Li L, Zheng Y. Construction of a eukaryotic expression vector for pEGFP-FST and its biological activity in duck myoblasts. ELECTRON J BIOTECHN 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejbt.2014.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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Sepporta MV, Tumminello FM, Flandina C, Crescimanno M, Giammanco M, La Guardia M, di Majo D, Leto G. Follistatin as potential therapeutic target in prostate cancer. Target Oncol 2013; 8:215-23. [PMID: 23456439 DOI: 10.1007/s11523-013-0268-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2012] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Follistatin is a single-chain glycosylated protein whose primary function consists in binding and neutralizing some members of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily such as activin and bone morphogenic proteins. Emerging evidence indicates that this molecule may also play a role in the malignant progression of several human tumors including prostate cancer. In particular, recent findings suggest that, in this tumor, follistatin may also contribute to the formation of bone metastasis through multiple mechanisms, some of which are not related to its specific activin or bone morphogenic proteins' inhibitory activity. This review provides insight into the most recent advances in understanding the role of follistatin in the prostate cancer progression and discusses the clinical and therapeutic implications related to these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vittoria Sepporta
- Operative Unit of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Palermo, via Augusto Elia, 3, 90127, Palermo, Italy
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