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Hiroshige T, Uemura KI, Nakamura KI, Igawa T. Insights on Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor α-Positive Interstitial Cells in the Male Reproductive Tract. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4128. [PMID: 38612936 PMCID: PMC11012365 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074128] [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: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a significant factor in approximately half of all infertility cases and is marked by a decreased sperm count and motility. A decreased sperm count is caused by not only a decreased production of sperm but also decreased numbers successfully passing through the male reproductive tract. Smooth muscle movement may play an important role in sperm transport in the male reproductive tract; thus, understanding the mechanism of this movement is necessary to elucidate the cause of sperm transport disorder. Recent studies have highlighted the presence of platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα)-positive interstitial cells (PICs) in various smooth muscle organs. Although research is ongoing, PICs in the male reproductive tract may be involved in the regulation of smooth muscle movement, as they are in other smooth muscle organs. This review summarizes the findings to date on PICs in male reproductive organs. Further exploration of the structural, functional, and molecular characteristics of PICs could provide valuable insights into the pathogenesis of male infertility and potentially lead to new therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasuku Hiroshige
- Department of Urology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichiro Uemura
- Department of Urology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichiro Nakamura
- Cognitive and Molecular Research Institute of Brain Diseases, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Igawa
- Department of Urology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
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Zhang M, Li H, Ma J, Yang C, Yang Y, Zhao B, Tie Y, Wang S. Effects of Zinc Combined with Metformin on Zinc Homeostasis, Blood-Epididymal Barrier, and Epididymal Absorption in Male Diabetic Mice. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024:10.1007/s12011-024-04171-y. [PMID: 38589680 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-024-04171-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Diabetes increases the likelihood of germ cell damage, hypogonadism, and male infertility. Diabetes leads to lower zinc (Zn) levels, an important micronutrient for maintaining male fertility, and zinc deficiency can lead to decreased male fertility through multiple mechanisms. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of combined metformin and zinc administration on epididymis in diabetic mice; 10 of 50 male mice were randomly selected as the control group (group C), and the remaining 40 mice were randomly divided into untreated diabetes group (group D), diabetes + zinc group (group Z), diabetes + metformin group (group M), and diabetes + metformin + zinc group (group ZM) with 10 mice each. Diabetic mice in group Z received oral zinc (10 mg/kg) once daily for 4 weeks; diabetic mice in group M received oral metformin (200 mg/kg) once daily for 4 weeks; diabetic mice in group ZM received oral metformin and zinc once daily for 4 weeks; and groups C and D received the same amount of sterile water by gavage. Overnight fasted mice were sacrificed, and blood samples, mouse epididymides, and sperm were collected for further experiments. In group D, fasting blood glucose and insulin resistance index increased significantly, semen quality, serum insulin, and testosterone decreased, and epididymal structure was disordered. In group D, epididymal tissue zinc, free zinc ions in the caput, and cauda of epididymis and zinc transporter (ZnT2) decreased significantly, while ZIP12, metallothionein (MT), and metal transcription factor (MTF1) increased significantly. In addition, the expressions of blood-epididymal barrier (BEB)-related molecules (including ZO-1 β-catenin and N-cadherin) and aquaporins (AQPs, including AQP3, AQP9, and AQP11) in the epididymis of mice in group D were significantly decreased. In addition, compared with groups D, Z, and M, in the ZM group, the expression of BEB-related molecules (including ZO-1, β-catenin, and N-cadherin) and aquaporins (AQP3, AQP9, and AQP11) in epididymis tissue were significantly increased, and sperm motility and serum testosterone were significantly increased. It was concluded that male diabetic mice have a disturbed epididymal structure and decreased semen quality by causing an imbalance in epididymal zinc homeostasis, BEB, and impaired absorptive function. The combination of zinc and metformin is an effective and safe alternative treatment and provides additional benefits over metformin alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghui Zhang
- Graduate School, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, China
| | - Huanhuan Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Jing Ma
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Chaoju Yang
- Department of Laboratory, Hebei Provincial People's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050051, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Bangrong Zhao
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Yanqing Tie
- Graduate School, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, China.
- Department of Laboratory, Hebei Provincial People's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050051, China.
| | - Shusong Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China.
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Liu MM, Feng XL, Qi C, Zhang SE, Zhang GL. The significance of single-cell transcriptome analysis in epididymis research. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1357370. [PMID: 38577504 PMCID: PMC10991796 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1357370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
As a crucial component of the male reproductive system, the epididymis plays multiple roles, including sperm storage and secretion of nutritive fluids for sperm development and maturation. The acquisition of fertilization capacity by sperm occurs during their transport through the epididymis. Compared with the testis, little has been realized about the importance of the epididymis. However, with the development of molecular biology and single-cell sequencing technology, the importance of the epididymis for male fertility should be reconsidered. Recent studies have revealed that different regions of the epididymis exhibit distinct functions and cell type compositions, which are likely determined by variations in gene expression patterns. In this research, we primarily focused on elucidating the cellular composition and region-specific gene expression patterns within different segments of the epididymis and provided detailed insights into epididymal function in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Meng Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xin-Lei Feng
- Animal Products Quality and Safety Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chao Qi
- Provincial Animal Husbandry Station of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shu-Er Zhang
- Provincial Animal Husbandry Station of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Guo-Liang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
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4
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Oberska P, Grabowska M, Marynowska M, Murawski M, Gączarzewicz D, Syczewski A, Michałek K. Cellular Distribution of Aquaporin 3, 7 and 9 in the Male Reproductive System: A Lesson from Bovine Study ( Bos taurus). Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1567. [PMID: 38338845 PMCID: PMC10855163 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031567] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The increasing incidence of male infertility in humans and animals creates the need to search for new factors that significantly affect the course of reproductive processes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the temporospatial expression of aquaglyceroporins (AQP3, AQP7 and AQP9) in the bovine (Bos taurus) reproductive system using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. The study also included morphological analysis and identification of GATA-4. In brief, in immature individuals, AQP3 and AQP7 were found in gonocytes. In reproductive bulls, AQP3 was observed in spermatocytes and spermatogonia, while AQP7 was visible in all germ cells and the Sertoli cells. AQP7 and AQP9 were detected in the Leydig cells. Along the entire epididymis of reproductive bulls, aquaglyceroporins were visible, among others, in basal cells (AQP3 and AQP7), in epididymal sperm (AQP7) and in the stereocilia of the principal cells (AQP9). In males of all ages, aquaglyceroporins were identified in the principal and basal cells of the vas deferens. An increase in the expression of AQP3 in the testis and cauda epididymis and a decrease in the abundance of AQP7 in the vas deferens with age were found. In conclusion, age-related changes in the expression and/or distribution patterns of AQP3, AQP7 and AQP9 indicate the involvement of these proteins in the normal development and course of male reproductive processes in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Oberska
- Department of Physiology, Cytobiology and Proteomics, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland; (P.O.); (M.M.)
| | - Marta Grabowska
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Marta Marynowska
- Department of Physiology, Cytobiology and Proteomics, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland; (P.O.); (M.M.)
| | - Maciej Murawski
- Department of Nutrition, Animal Biotechnology and Fisheries, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 24/28 Mickiewicza Avenue, 30-059 Cracow, Poland;
| | - Dariusz Gączarzewicz
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland;
| | | | - Katarzyna Michałek
- Department of Physiology, Cytobiology and Proteomics, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland; (P.O.); (M.M.)
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Yang D, Yuan L, Chen G, Chen S, Ma X, Xing Y, Song J. Expression and role of melatonin membrane receptors in the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis of Tibetan sheep in a plateau pastoral area. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290775. [PMID: 37878614 PMCID: PMC10599587 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290775] [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: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
MTNR1A and MTNR1B, two high-affinity MT membrane receptors found in mammals, mediate the activity of MT on the HPGA to regulate animal reproduction. Nevertheless, the expression patterns and function of the MTNR1A and MTNR1B genes in the HPTA of seasonal estrus sheep and perennial estrus sheep have not been elucidated. We studied the expression of MTNR1A and MTNR1B in the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis (HPTA) of Tibetan sheep at different reproductive stages using histochemistry, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELSIA), scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, quantitative Real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and Western blot (WB), and analyzed the relationship between their expression and reproductive hormone receptors. We also compared relevant characteristics between seasonal Tibetan sheep and non-seasonal Small Tail Han sheep in the same pastoral area. The results showed that MTNR1A and MTNR1B were expressed in all tissues of the Tibetan sheep HPTA, and both were co-expressed in the cytoplasm of epididymis basal and halo cells located at common sites of the epididymis basement membrane, forming an immune barrier. The qRT-PCR analysis showed that not only MTNR1A but also N-acetyltransferase (AANAT), hydroxyindole-oxygen- methyltransferase (HIOMT), androgen receptor (AR), and estrogen receptor α (ERα) mRNA expression was significantly upregulated in the testis and epididymis of Tibetan sheep during the breeding season, whereas no clear upregulation of these genes was observed in the tissues of Small Tail Han sheep. MTNR1A and MTNR1B are important regulators of the HPTA in sheep. MTNR1A mediates seasonal estrus regulation in Tibetan sheep. Both MTNR1A and MTNR1B may play important roles in formation of the blood-epididymal barrier. The results of this study should help advance research on the mechanism of reproductive regulation of the HPTA in male animals and provide reference data for improving the reproductive rate of seasonal breeding animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dapeng Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ligang Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Guojuan Chen
- Huangzhong District Animal Disease Control Center of Xining City, Xining City, Qinghai Province, China
| | - Shaoyu Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaojie Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yindi Xing
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Juanjuan Song
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
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6
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Liman N. The abundance and localization of claudin-1 and -5 in the adult tomcats (Felis catus) testis, tubules rectus, rete testis, efferent ductules, and epididymis. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2023. [PMID: 36688626 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25165] [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: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Tight junctions (TJ) are the anatomical component of blood-testis (BTB) and blood-epididymis (BEB) barriers and contain many proteins, including claudins. The presence of claudins in domestic cat testis and epididymis has not been previously described. This study aimed to determine whether claudin-1 and claudin-5 participate in the structure of BTB and BEB and whether their amounts differ between the testis and epididymal segments of adult cats, using Western blotting (WB) and immunohistochemistry. WB results demonstrated that claudin-1 was significantly lower in the testis than in all epididymal segments and higher in the corpus epididymis than in the cauda, while claudin-5 in the testis was significantly lower than in the caput and corpus. Claudin-1 was absent at the Sertoli-Sertoli junctions, while claudin-5 was detected at the level of the BTB during stages I and VIII. Both claudins were observed in the pachytene spermatocytes and the developing acrosome of the round and elongating spermatids. Claudin-5 was also detected in the cytoplasm of some spermatogonia, Sertoli cells, and late spermatid acrosome. In the epididymal segments, both claudins were localized to the area of the tight junctions and along the entire length of the lateral plasma membranes of adjacent principal cells and between principal and basal cells. These results may indicate that in the domestic cat, claudin-1 and -5 participate as both tight junction proteins and adhesion molecules in the BEB's structure, claudin 5 is a component of the BTB, and both proteins may be involved in postmeiotic germ cell development, especially acrosome development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narin Liman
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
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Male Sex Hormones, Metabolic Syndrome, and Aquaporins: A Triad of Players in Male (in)Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031960. [PMID: 36768282 PMCID: PMC9915845 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility is becoming a chronic and emerging problem in the world. There is a resistant stigma that this health condition is mostly due to the female, although the literature supports that the responsibility for the onset of infertility is equally shared between both sexes in more or less equal proportions. Nevertheless, male sex hormones, particularly testosterone (T), are key players in male-related infertility. Indeed, hypogonadism, which is also characterized by changes in T levels, is one of the most common causes of male infertility and its incidence has been interconnected to the increased prevalence of metabolic diseases. Recent data also highlight the role of aquaporin (AQP)-mediated water and solute diffusion and the metabolic homeostasis in testicular cells suggesting a strong correlation between AQPs function, metabolism of testicular cells, and infertility. Indeed, recent studies showed that both metabolic and sexual hormone concentrations can change the expression pattern and function of AQPs. Herein, we review up-to-date information on the involvement of AQP-mediated function and permeability in men with metabolic syndrome and testosterone deficit, highlighting the putative mechanisms that show an interaction between sex hormones, AQPs, and metabolic syndrome that may contribute to male infertility.
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The Role of Mononuclear Phagocytes in the Testes and Epididymis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010053. [PMID: 36613494 PMCID: PMC9820352 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The mononuclear phagocytic system (MPS) is the primary innate immune cell group in male reproductive tissues, maintaining the balance of pro-inflammatory and immune tolerance. This article aims to outline the role of mononuclear macrophages in the immune balance of the testes and epididymis, and to understand the inner immune regulation mechanism. A review of pertinent publications was performed using the PubMed and Google Scholar databases on all articles published prior to January 2021. Search terms were based on the following keywords: 'MPS', 'mononuclear phagocytes', 'testes', 'epididymis', 'macrophage', 'Mφ', 'dendritic cell', 'DC', 'TLR', 'immune', 'inflammation', and 'polarization'. Additionally, reference lists of primary and review articles were reviewed for other publications of relevance. This review concluded that MPS exhibits a precise balance in the male reproductive system. In the testes, MPS cells are mainly suppressed subtypes (M2 and cDC2) under physiological conditions, which maintain the local immune tolerance. Under pathological conditions, MPS cells will transform into M1 and cDC1, producing various cytokines, and will activate T cell specific immunity as defense to foreign pathogens or self-antigens. In the epididymis, MPS cells vary in the different segments, which express immune tolerance in the caput and pro-inflammatory condition in the cauda. Collectively, MPS is the control point for maintaining the immune tolerance of the testes and epididymis as well as for eliminating pathogens.
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Schimming BC, Martins LL, de Oliveira FS, Pinheiro PFF, Domeniconi RF. Morphology and immunolocalization of aquaporins 1 and 9 in the agouti ( Dasyprocta azarae) testis excurrent ducts. Anim Reprod 2021; 18:e20210070. [PMID: 34840612 PMCID: PMC8607849 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2021-0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the morphology and immunoexpression of aquaporins (AQPs) 1 and 9 in the rete testis, efferent ducts, epididymis, and vas deferens in the Azara's agouti (Dasyprocta azarae). For this purpose, ten adult sexually mature animals were used in histologic and immunohistochemical analyses. The Azara's agouti rete testis was labyrinthine and lined with simple cubic epithelium. Ciliated and non-ciliated cells were observed in the epithelium of the efferent ducts. The epididymal cellular population was composed of principal, basal, apical, clear, narrow, and halo cells. The epithelium lining of vas deferens was composed of the principal and basal cells. AQPs 1 and 9 were not expressed in the rete testis. Positive reaction to AQP1 was observed at the luminal border of non-ciliated cells of the efferent ducts, and in the peritubular stroma and blood vessels in the epididymis, and vas deferens. AQP9 was immunolocalized in the epithelial cells in the efferent ducts, epididymis and vas deferens. The morphology of Azara's agouti testis excurrent ducts is similar to that reported for other rodents such as Cuniculus paca. The immunolocalization results of the AQPs suggest that the expression of AQPs is species-specific due to differences in localization and expression when compared to studies in other mammals species. The knowledge about the expression of AQPs in Azara's agouti testis excurrent ducts is essential to support future reproductive studies on this animal, since previous studies show that AQPs may be biomarkers of male fertility and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Cesar Schimming
- Departamento de Anatomia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Leandro Luis Martins
- Departamento de Anatomia, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brasil
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Morphological analysis of interstitial cells in murine epididymis using light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Acta Histochem 2021; 123:151761. [PMID: 34298316 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Smooth muscle contraction of the epididymis plays an important role in sperm transport. Although PDGFRα-positive interstitial cells (PDGFRα (+) ICs) are thought to be involved in controlling smooth muscle movement via intercellular signaling, they have not yet been reported to date in the epididymis. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the morphological characteristics of PDGFRα (+) ICs in the interstitial space of the murine epididymis. Immunohistochemistry showed that PDGFRα (+) ICs co-labeled with CD34 (PDGFRα (+) CD34 (+) ICs were distributed in the interstitial space of the murine epididymis from the initial segment (IS) to the cauda of the epididymis. PDGFRα (+) ICs that were not co-labeled with CD34 (PDGFRα (+) CD34 (-) ICs) were observed just beneath the epithelium from the corpus to the cauda but not in the IS. Both types of PDGFRα (+) ICs were in close proximity to each other as well as the surrounding nerves and macrophages. In addition, PDGFRα (+) CD34 (-) ICs beneath the epithelium were also in close proximity to the basal cells. Using transmission electron microscopy, we identified ICs that possessed elongated and woven cellular processes and were in close proximity to each other, surrounding the cells in the interstitial space. In the murine epididymis, it is suggested that there are two subtypes of ICs that show different distribution patterns depending on the segment, which may reflect segmental differences in mechanisms of sperm transport, forming a cellular network by physical interactions in the murine epididymis.
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11
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Aquaporins Are Differentially Regulated in Canine Cryptorchid Efferent Ductules and Epididymis. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061539. [PMID: 34070358 PMCID: PMC8227126 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The distribution and expression of aquaporins (AQPs) in the testes and spermatozoa of several animal species play important roles in spermatogenesis and spermatozoon transit in this region. The aim of this study was to evaluate AQP7, AQP8, and AQP9 localization and expression in the efferent ductules and epididymal regions (the caput, corpus, and cauda) of normal and cryptorchid dogs. The results from immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) show regional tissue distributions, particularly at the level of the epithelium of efferent ductules and both the regions caput and cauda of the canine cryptorchid epididymis. These findings support the hypothesis that these channel proteins respond differently to multiple stimuli that cause cryptorchidism (hormones, heat, osmolarity, etc.) and participate in the mechanisms of cell “resilience” or apoptosis taking place in the epididymis. Abstract The efferent ductules and the epididymis are parts of the male reproductive system where spermatozoa mature. Specialized epithelial cells in these ducts contribute to the transport of fluids produced by spermatozoa’s metabolic activity. Aquaporins (AQPs) have been demonstrated to be expressed in the spermatozoan membrane and testis epithelial cells, where they contribute to regulating spermatozoan volume and transit through environments of differing osmolality. Due to the lack of detailed literature regarding AQP expression in the canine male genital tract, the aim of this study was to investigate both the distribution and expression of AQP7, AQP8, and AQP9 in the efferent ductules and epididymal regions (caput, corpus, and cauda) from normal and cryptorchid dogs by using immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Our results show different patterns for the distribution and expression of the examined AQPs, with particular evidence of their upregulation in the caput and downregulation in the cauda region of the canine cryptorchid epididymis. These findings are associated with a modulation of Hsp70 and caspase-3 expression, suggesting the participation of AQPs in the luminal microenvironment modifications that are peculiar characteristics of this pathophysiological condition.
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12
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Davis FM. Tunnel vision: Imaging the mouse epididymis in three-dimensions. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2021; 1868:119009. [PMID: 33716171 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.119009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Felicity M Davis
- EMBL Australia Node in Single Molecule Science, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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13
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Multiscale imaging of basal cell dynamics in the functionally mature mammary gland. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:26822-26832. [PMID: 33033227 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2016905117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammary epithelium is indispensable for the continued survival of more than 5,000 mammalian species. For some, the volume of milk ejected in a single day exceeds their entire blood volume. Here, we unveil the spatiotemporal properties of physiological signals that orchestrate the ejection of milk from alveolar units and its passage along the mammary ductal network. Using quantitative, multidimensional imaging of mammary cell ensembles from GCaMP6 transgenic mice, we reveal how stimulus evoked Ca2+ oscillations couple to contractions in basal epithelial cells. Moreover, we show that Ca2+-dependent contractions generate the requisite force to physically deform the innermost layer of luminal cells, compelling them to discharge the fluid that they produced and housed. Through the collective action of thousands of these biological positive-displacement pumps, each linked to a contractile ductal network, milk begins its passage toward the dependent neonate, seconds after the command.
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14
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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] [MESH Headings] [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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15
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Castro MM, Kim B, Games PD, Hill E, Neves CA, Serrão JE, Breton S, Machado-Neves M. Distribution pattern of ZO-1 and claudins in the epididymis of vampire bats. Tissue Barriers 2020; 8:1779526. [PMID: 32552339 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2020.1779526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial cells connect with each other by tight junctions (TJs) in several tissues. In epididymides, TJs proteins form the blood-epididymis barrier (BEB), which is crucial for male fertility. However, little is known about BEB morphological and physiological aspects in wild animals. This study examines the region-specific distribution pattern of TJs proteins in D. rotundus' epididymis, assessing their regulation in rainy and dry season. The expression of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), and claudins (Cldn)-1, -3, and -4 were evaluated by confocal immunofluorescence and ELISA analysis. Herein, ZO-1 was strictly expressed in TJs, whereas Cldns were expressed in TJs and basolateral membranes of epithelial cells. Their co-localization and intensity of expression varied in the epididymal regions examined. The effect of season on protein expression was detected mainly in TJ proteins located in the proximal regions. As such, in the initial segment (IS), Cldn-3 and -4 were detected at low levels in basolateral membranes in the rainy season compared to the dry season. Furthermore, in the distal IS, Cldn-1 expression was lower in TJs of epithelial cells during the rainy season than the dry season. ZO-1 expression was higher in the cauda region than the corpus region by ELISA analysis. Additionally, in the corpus region, ZO-1 expression was higher in TJs during dry season compared to the rainy season. Our study sheds light on the understanding of BEB in D. rotundus, improving the knowledge of their reproductive biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana M Castro
- Departmento De Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal De Viçosa , Viçosa, Brasil
| | - Bongki Kim
- Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School , Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University , Yesan, Republic of Korea
| | - Patrícia D Games
- Departmento De Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal De Viçosa , Viçosa, Brasil
| | - Eric Hill
- Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School , Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - José Eduardo Serrão
- Departmento De Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal De Viçosa , Viçosa, Brasil
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Program in Membrane Biology/Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School , Boston, MA, USA
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16
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Yuan Z, Wang Y, Yu W, Xie W, Zhang Z, Wang J, Zhang H, Han Y, Weng Q. Seasonal expressions of oxytocin and oxytocin receptor in the epididymides in the wild ground squirrels (Citellus Dauricus Brandt). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 289:113391. [PMID: 31917151 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to detect the seasonal expressions of oxytocin (OT), oxytocin receptor (OTR), extracellular signal-regulated kinase1 and 2 (ERK1/2) and phospho-ERK1/2 (pERK1/2) in the epididymis of the wild ground squirrels (Citellus Dauricus Brandt) during the breeding season and non-breeding season. Histological results showed that size, weight, cell number and lumen diameter of epididymis underwent acute seasonal changes, which were all peaked in the breeding season. Immunohistochemical results suggested that strong staining of OT, OTR, ERK1/2, and pERK1/2 were observed in the epithelial layer in the whole epididymis, along with intense OT and OTR signal in smooth muscle cell (Smc) in caudal epididymis in the breeding season. The protein expression levels of OTR, ERK1/2, and pERK1/2 in the epididymis were higher in the breeding season than those of the non-breeding season. Besides, hormone assay revealed that there was no significant serum concentration of OT in these two periods, while epididymal concentration showed higher value in the breeding season. In summary, the identified localization and local concentration of OT in the epididymis in the wild ground squirrel suggested that epididymis may assume as a source of OT, and OT could act via OTR to activate ERK1/2 signaling to regulate seasonal epididymal functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengrong Yuan
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yuhan Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Wenyang Yu
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Wenqian Xie
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Ziwen Zhang
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Junjie Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Haolin Zhang
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yingying Han
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Qiang Weng
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China.
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17
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Gregory M, Cyr DG. Effects of prostaglandin E2 on gap junction protein alpha 1 in the rat epididymis. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:123-132. [PMID: 30060123 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions are responsible for intercellular communication. In the adult mammalian epididymis, gap junction protein alpha 1 (GJA1) is localized between basal and either principal or clear cells. GJA1 levels and localization change during the differentiation of basal cells. The present objective was to determine the role of basal cells and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on GJA1 in the rat epididymis. Prior to basal cell differentiation, GJA1 is colocalized with TJP1 at the apical lateral margins between adjacent epithelial cells. When basal cells are present, GJA1 becomes associated between basal and principal cells, where it is primarily immunolocalized until adulthood. Basal cells express TP63, differentiate from epithelial cells, and produce prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 1 by 21 days of age. Prior to day 21, GJA1and TP63 are not strongly associated at the apical region. However, by day 28, TP63-positive basal cells migrate to the base of the epithelium, and also express GJA1. To assess effects of PGE2 on GJA1, rat caput epididymal (RCE) cells were exposed to PGE2 (50 μM) for 3 h. PGE2 increased levels of Gja1 mRNA in RCE cells, while levels of Gjb1, Gjb2, Gjb4, and GjB5 were unaltered. Furthermore, PGE2 increased protein levels of GJA1, phospho-GJA1, phospho-AKT, CTNNB1, and phospho-CTNNB1. Total AKT and the tight junction protein claudin1 were also not altered by PGE2. Data suggest that development of the epididymal epithelium and differentiation of epididymal basal cells regulate the targeting of GJA1, and that this appears to be mediated by PGE2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Gregory
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, University of Quebec, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, University of Quebec, Laval, Quebec, Canada
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18
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Özbek M, Hitit M, Ergün E, Ergün L, Beyaz F, Erhan F, Yıldırım N, Kandil B, Özgenç Ö, Memili E. Expression profile of Toll-like receptor 4 in rat testis and epididymis throughout postnatal development. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13518. [PMID: 32003057 DOI: 10.1111/and.13518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) belonging to pattern recognition receptors are involved in maintaining testicular and epididymal immune homeostasis. The purpose of the current study was to investigate TLR4 expression in rat testis and epididymis throughout postnatal development. Weak staining was detected in peritubular myoid cells and immature Sertoli cells while no staining was observed in gonocytes during prepubertal period. However, TLR4 expression began to appear in spermatocytes in pubertal period and gradually increased in spermatids. An intense staining was observed in steps 5-19 spermatids in post pubertal and mature periods. Similarly, TLR4 expression in the testes steadily increased from pubertal period to mature period. Puberty also caused a significant increase in TLR4 expression in epididymis. TLR4 expression in cauda epididymis was lower as compared to those of other epididymal segments. The majority of epididymal epithelial cells exhibited apical TLR4 expression, whereas basal cells showed intense intracytoplasmic immunoreaction. We detected an intense staining in epididymal smooth muscle cells. The expression levels of TLR4 showed dynamic changes in both spermatogenic cells, and entire testicular and epididymal tissues during postnatal development. These results suggest that TLR4 expression contributes not only to inflammation but also to the development of spermatogenic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Özbek
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Hitit
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kastamonu University, Kastamonu, Turkey
| | - Emel Ergün
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Levent Ergün
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Feyzullah Beyaz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Füsun Erhan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nuh Yıldırım
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Banu Kandil
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Özge Özgenç
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Erdoğan Memili
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
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Wang J, Liu Q, Wang Z, Sheng X, Zhang H, Han Y, Yuan Z, Weng Q. Seasonal expressions of luteinising hormone receptor, follicle-stimulating hormone receptor and prolactin receptor in the epididymis of the male wild ground squirrel (Spermophilus dauricus). Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:735-742. [DOI: 10.1071/rd18262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Luteinising hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin (PRL) are pituitary-derived hormones and mediate their functions through LH receptor (LHR), FSH receptor (FSHR) and PRL receptor (PRLR) respectively. This study aimed to investigate the seasonal expression patterns of LHR, FSHR and PRLR in the epididymis of the male wild ground squirrel during the breeding and non-breeding seasons. Histologically, principal cells, basal cells, cilia and mature spermatozoa were found in the lumen of caput, corpus and cauda epididymidis in the breeding season, whereas in the non-breeding season, cilia and basal cells were rarely found and the epididymidal duct was devoid of spermatozoa. Immunohistochemical results showed that LHR, FSHR and PRLR were mainly present in the filamentous cytoplasm layer of epithelial cells of the caput, corpus and cauda epididymidis and FSHR and PRLR displayed stronger staining in the breeding season than in the non-breeding season. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein levels of FSHR and PRLR in all regions of epididymis as well as the levels of LHR in the caput and cauda epididymidis were higher during the breeding season. The protein levels of FSHR, LHR and PRLR were positively correlated with epididymal weight. Together, these results suggest that LHR, FSHR and PRLR may regulate epididymal functional changes in the male wild ground squirrel during its seasonal breeding cycle.
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20
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Wang J, Liu Q, Qi H, Wang Y, Gao Q, Gao F, Zhang H, Han Y, Yuan Z, Weng Q. Seasonal expressions of androgen receptor, P450arom and estrogen receptors in the epididymis of the wild ground squirrel (Citellus dauricus Brandt). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 270:131-138. [PMID: 30539793 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the seasonal expressions of androgen receptor (AR), estrogen receptors alpha and beta (ERα and ERβ) and aromatase cytochrome P450 (P450arom) in the epididymis of the wild ground squirrel. Histologically, the epididymis was with larger duct diameter and cell population during the breeding season. AR was presented in the peritubular smooth muscle cells and epithelial cells in the whole epididymis with stronger staining in the breeding period. P450arom was intensely localized in epithelial cells and spermatozoa during the breeding season, absent in the non-breeding season and moderately stained in pre-hibernation. During the breeding season, ERα was intensely expressed in epithelial cytoplasm and/or nucleus, whereas in the non-breeding season and pre-hibernation, weaker staining signal was found in nucleus of epithelial cells. ERβ was absent in the entire annual cycle by immunohistochemical and Real-time PCR detection. The mRNA levels of AR, P450arom and ERα were higher in the epididymis of the breeding season when compared to those of the non-breeding season and pre-hibernation. Taken together, these results suggest that epididymis of the wild ground squirrel is a primary target for androgen and estrogen, and the expression of P450arom represents that epididymis may be a potential source of estrogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Wang
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Qian Liu
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Hongyu Qi
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Yi Wang
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Qiong Gao
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Fuli Gao
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Haolin Zhang
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Yingying Han
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Zhengrong Yuan
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, PR China.
| | - Qiang Weng
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, PR China.
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21
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Chauvigné F, Parhi J, Ducat C, Ollé J, Finn RN, Cerdà J. The cellular localization and redistribution of multiple aquaporin paralogs in the spermatic duct epithelium of a maturing marine teleost. J Anat 2018; 233:177-192. [PMID: 29806093 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Aquaporin-mediated fluid transport in the mammalian efferent duct and epididymis is believed to play a role in sperm maturation and concentration. In fish, such as the marine teleost gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata), the control of fluid homeostasis in the spermatic duct seems also to be crucial for male fertility, but no information exists on the expression and distribution of aquaporins. In this study, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting analyses, employing available and newly raised paralog-specific antibodies for seabream aquaporins, indicate that up to nine functional aquaporins, Aqp0a, -1aa, -1ab, -3a, -4a, -7, -8bb, -9b and -10b, are expressed in the spermatic duct. Immunolocalization of the channels in the resting spermatic duct reveals that Aqp0a, -1aa, -4a, -7 and -10b are expressed in the monolayered luminal epithelium, Aqp8b and -9b in smooth muscle fibers, and Aqp1ab and -3a in different interstitial lamina cells. In the epithelial cells, Aqp0a and -1aa are localized in the short apical microvilli, and Aqp4a and -10b show apical and basolateral staining, whereas Aqp7 is solely detected in vesicular compartments. Upon spermiation, an elongation of the epithelial cells sterocilia, as well as the folding of the epithelium, is observed. At this stage, single- and double-immunostaining, using two aquaporin paralogs or the Na+ /K+ -ATPase membrane marker, indicate that Aqp1ab, -3a, -7, -8bb and -9b staining remains unchanged, whereas in epithelial cells Aqp1aa translation is supressed, Aqp4a internalizes, and Aqp0a and -10b accumulate in the apical, lateral and basal plasma membrane. These findings uncover a cell type- and region-specific distribution of multiple aquaporins in the piscine spermatic duct, which shares conserved features of the mammalian system. The data therefore suggest that aquaporins may play different roles in the regulation of fluid homeostasis and sperm maturation in the male reproductive tract of fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Chauvigné
- Group of Comparative Molecular Physiology, IRTA-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Janmejay Parhi
- Fish Genetics and Reproduction Department, College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Lembucherra, Tripura, India
| | - Carla Ducat
- Group of Comparative Molecular Physiology, IRTA-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judith Ollé
- Group of Comparative Molecular Physiology, IRTA-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roderick Nigel Finn
- Group of Comparative Molecular Physiology, IRTA-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Biological Sciences, Bergen High Technology Centre, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Joan Cerdà
- Group of Comparative Molecular Physiology, IRTA-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
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22
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Klein DM, Harding MC, Crowther MK, Cherrington NJ. Localization of nucleoside transporters in rat epididymis. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2017; 31. [PMID: 28322028 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.21911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The epididymis relies on transporters for the secretion of nucleosides and influence the disposition of nucleoside analogs (NSA). Since these compounds can cross the blood-testis barrier (BTB), it is important to understand if the epididymis reabsorbs NSA drugs. The purpose of this study is to determine the localization of nucleoside transporters expressed within rat epididymis to demonstrate the potential of epididymal reabsorption. Using immunohistochemistry, we determined that equilibrative nucleoside transporter 1 (ENT1) is localized to the basolateral membrane of epithelial cells, ENT2 is expressed in the nucleus of the epithelium and CNT2 is expressed by basal cells. The expression pattern for these transporters suggests that nucleosides are able to access the epithelial cells of the epididymal duct via the blood, but not from the lumen. We did not find any evidence for a transepithelial reabsorption pathway indicating the NSA drugs that cross the BTB remain within the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Klein
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Marcus C Harding
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Meghan K Crowther
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Nathan J Cherrington
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
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23
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Menezes TP, de Castro MM, do Vale JA, Moura AAA, Lessa G, Machado-Neves M. Proteomes and morphological features of Calomys tener and Necromys lasiurus (Cricetidae, Sigmodontinae) epididymides. J Mammal 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyw201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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24
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Abstract
The onslaught of foreign antigens carried by spermatozoa into the epididymis, an organ that has not demonstrated immune privilege, a decade or more after the establishment of central immune tolerance presents a unique biological challenge. Historically, the physical confinement of spermatozoa to the epididymal tubule enforced by a tightly interwoven wall of epithelial cells was considered sufficient enough to prevent cross talk between gametes and the immune system and, ultimately, autoimmune destruction. The discovery of an intricate arrangement of mononuclear phagocytes (MPs) comprising dendritic cells and macrophages in the murine epididymis suggests that we may have underestimated the existence of a sophisticated mucosal immune system in the posttesticular environment. This review consolidates our current knowledge of the physiology of MPs in the steady state epididymis and speculates on possible interactions between auto-antigenic spermatozoa, pathogens and the immune system by drawing on what is known about the immune system in the intestinal mucosa. Ultimately, further investigation will provide valuable information regarding the origins of pathologies arising as a result of autoimmune or inflammatory responses in the epididymis, including epididymitis and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Da Silva
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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25
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Da Silva N, Barton CR. Macrophages and dendritic cells in the post-testicular environment. Cell Tissue Res 2016; 363:97-104. [PMID: 26337514 PMCID: PMC4703462 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2270-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages (MΦ) and dendritic cells (DCs) are heterogeneous families of functionally and developmentally related immune cells that play crucial roles in tissue homeostasis and the regulation of immune responses. During the past 5 years, immunologists have generated a considerable amount of data that challenge dogmas about the ontogeny and functions of these highly versatile cells. The male excurrent duct system plays a critical role in the establishment of fertility by allowing sperm maturation, transport and storage. In addition, it is challenged by pathogens and must establish a protective and tolerogenic environment for a continuous flow of autoantigenic spermatozoa. The post-testicular environment and, in particular, the epididymis contain an intricate network of DCs and MΦ; however, the immunophysiology of this intriguing and highly specialized mucosal system is poorly understood. This review summarizes the current trends in mouse MΦ and DC biology and speculates about their roles in the steady-state epididymis. Unraveling immune cell functions in the male reproductive tract is an essential prerequisite for the design of innovative strategies aimed at controlling male fertility and treating infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Da Silva
- Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology and Program in Membrane Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, 185 Cambridge Street, CPZN 8.218, Boston, MA 02114-2790, USA.
| | - Claire R Barton
- Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology and Program in Membrane Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, 185 Cambridge Street, CPZN 8.218, Boston, MA 02114-2790, USA
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26
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Mandon M, Hermo L, Cyr DG. Isolated Rat Epididymal Basal Cells Share Common Properties with Adult Stem Cells. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:115. [PMID: 26400399 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.133967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
There is little information on the function of epididymal basal cells. These cells secrete prostaglandins, can metabolize radical oxygen species, and have apical projections that are components of the blood-epididymis barrier. The objective of this study was to develop a reproducible protocol to isolate rat epididymal basal cells and to characterize their function by gene expression profiling. Integrin-alpha6 was used to isolate a highly purified population of basal cells. Microarray analysis indicated that expression levels of 552 genes were enriched in basal cells relative to other cell types. Among these genes, 45 were expressed at levels of 5-fold or greater. These highly expressed genes coded for proteins implicated in cell adhesion, cytoskeletal function, ion transport, cellular signaling, and epidermal function, and included proteases and antiproteases, signal transduction, and transcription factors. Several highly expressed genes have been reported in adult stem cells, suggesting that basal cells may represent an epididymal stem cell population. A basal cell culture was established that showed that these basal cells can differentiate in vitro from keratin (KRT) 5-positive cells to cells that express KRT8 and connexin 26, a marker of columnar cells. These data provide novel information on epididymal basal cell gene expression and suggest that these cells can act as adult stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Mandon
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Louis Hermo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Quebec, Canada Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Boj M, Chauvigné F, Cerdà J. Aquaporin biology of spermatogenesis and sperm physiology in mammals and teleosts. THE BIOLOGICAL BULLETIN 2015; 229:93-108. [PMID: 26338872 DOI: 10.1086/bblv229n1p93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Fluid homeostasis is recognized as a critical factor during the development, maturation, and function of vertebrate male germ cells. These processes have been associated with the presence of multiple members of the aquaporin superfamily of water and solute channels in different cell types along the reproductive tract as well as in spermatozoa. We present a comparative analysis of the existing knowledge of aquaporin biology in the male reproductive tissues of mammals and teleosts. Current data suggest that in both vertebrate groups, aquaporins may have similar functions during differentiation of spermatozoa in the germinal epithelium, in the concentration and maturation of sperm in the testicular ducts, and in the regulation of osmotically induced volume changes in ejaculated spermatozoa. Recent studies have also provided insight into the possible function of aquaporins beyond water transport, such as in signaling pathways during spermatogenesis or the sensing of cell swelling and mitochondrial peroxide transport in activated sperm. However, an understanding of the specific physiological functions of the various aquaporins during germ cell development and sperm motility, as well as the molecular mechanisms involved, remains elusive. Novel experimental approaches need to be developed to elucidate these processes and to dissect the regulatory intracellular pathways implicated, which will greatly help to uncover the molecular basis of sperm physiology and male fertility in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Boj
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; and
| | - François Chauvigné
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; and Department of Biology, Bergen High Technology Centre, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Joan Cerdà
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; and
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Smith TB, Cortez-Retamozo V, Grigoryeva LS, Hill E, Pittet MJ, Da Silva N. Mononuclear phagocytes rapidly clear apoptotic epithelial cells in the proximal epididymis. Andrology 2014; 2:755-62. [PMID: 25082073 DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2014.00251.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
We have shown previously that a network of mononuclear phagocytes (MPs) expressing macrophage and dendritic cell markers such as CD11c, F4/80 and CX3CR1, lines the base of the epididymal tubule. However, in the initial segment (IS) and only in that particular segment, epididymal MPs establish extremely close interactions with the epithelium by projecting slender dendrites between most epithelial cells. We undertook the present study to determine how epididymal phagocytes respond to the transient wave of apoptosis initiated by unilateral efferent duct ligation (EDL) in the epididymal epithelium. We show profound morphological and phenotypical changes restricted to the MPs populating the proximal epididymis following EDL. Within 48 h, a large subset of IS epithelial cells had entered an apoptotic state, visualized by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) assay and CD11c(+) and CX3CR1(+) MPs readily engulfed TUNEL-positive cells and other debris. Despite the high levels of apoptosis and the rapid clearance of apoptotic cells occurring after EDL, the epithelium preserved its overall architecture and maintained tight junctions of the blood-epididymis barrier (BEB). The discovery of a functional population of MPs in the epididymal epithelium responsible for maintaining the integrity of the BEB raises further questions regarding the role of these cells in clearing defective epithelial cells in the steady-state epididymis, as well as pathogens and abnormal spermatozoa in the lumen.
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Affiliation(s)
- T B Smith
- Division of Nephrology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Shum WW, Smith TB, Cortez-Retamozo V, Grigoryeva LS, Roy JW, Hill E, Pittet MJ, Breton S, Da Silva N. Epithelial basal cells are distinct from dendritic cells and macrophages in the mouse epididymis. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:90. [PMID: 24648397 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.116681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelium that lines the epididymal duct establishes the optimal milieu in which spermatozoa mature, acquire motility, and are stored. This finely tuned environment also protects antigenic sperm against pathogens and autoimmunity, which are potential causes of transient or permanent infertility. The epididymal epithelium is pseudostratified and contains basal cells (BCs) that are located beneath other epithelial cells. Previous studies showed that in the mouse epididymis, BCs possess macrophage-like characteristics. However, we previously identified a dense population of cells belonging to the mononuclear phagocyte (MP) system (comprised of macrophages and dendritic cells) in the basal compartment of the mouse epididymis and showed that a subset of MPs express the macrophage marker F4/80. In the present study, we evaluate the distribution of BCs and MPs in the epididymis of transgenic CD11c-EYFP mice, in which EYFP is expressed exclusively in MPs, using antibodies against the BC marker keratin 5 (KRT5) and the macrophage marker F4/80. Immunofluorescence labeling for laminin, a basement membrane marker, showed that BCs and most MPs are located in the basal region of the epithelium. Confocal microscopy showed that in the initial segment, both BCs and MPs project intraepithelial extensions and establish a very intricate network. Flow cytometry experiments demonstrated that epididymal MPs and BCs are phenotypically distinct. BCs do not express F4/80, and MPs do not express KRT5. Therefore, despite their proximity and some morphological similarities with peritubular macrophages and dendritic cells, BCs do not belong to the MP system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winnie W Shum
- Division of Nephrology/Program in Membrane Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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