1
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Johnston DS. Pre-clinical and early clinical considerations for the development of non-hormonal contraceptives for men. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 39078256 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13705] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This manuscript presents non-hormonal male contraceptive development in the context of mitigating risk to investigators and investors. OBJECTIVE The manuscript uses examples to illustrate drug development principles to move a project from discovery to development. The content is intended for those with reproductive biology backgrounds without significant exposure to drug development-particularly early-stage targeted drug development-and those with general interest in developing non-hormonal methods of contraception. CONCLUSION The goal of issues addressed in this manuscript is to facilitate the advancement of innovative male contraceptives into late-stage clinical trials, while keeping in mind early recognition of program deficiencies and development of mitigation strategies, or reassignment of limited, valuable resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S Johnston
- Contraception Research Branch, Fertility and Infertility Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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2
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Suzuki A, Yabuta N, Shimada K, Mashiko D, Tokuhiro K, Oyama Y, Miyata H, Garcia TX, Matzuk MM, Ikawa M. Individual disruption of 12 testis-enriched genes via the CRISPR/Cas9 system does not affect the fertility of male mice. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 163:104252. [PMID: 38697008 PMCID: PMC11390273 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104252] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
More than 1200 genes have been shown in the database to be expressed predominantly in the mouse testes. Advances in genome editing technologies such as the CRISPR/Cas9 system have made it possible to create genetically engineered mice more rapidly and efficiently than with conventional methods, which can be utilized to screen genes essential for male fertility by knocking out testis-enriched genes. Finding such genes related to male fertility would not only help us understand the etiology of human infertility but also lead to the development of male contraceptives. In this study, we generated knockout mice for 12 genes (Acrv1, Adgrf3, Atp8b5, Cfap90, Cfap276, Fbxw5, Gm17266, Lrrd1, Mroh7, Nemp1, Spata45, and Trim36) that are expressed predominantly in the testis and examined the appearance and histological morphology of testes, sperm motility, and male fertility. Mating tests revealed that none of these genes is essential for male fertility at least individually. Notably, knockout mice for Gm17266 showed smaller testis size than the wild-type but did not exhibit reduced male fertility. Since 12 genes were not individually essential for male fertilization, it is unlikely that these genes could be the cause of infertility or contraceptive targets. It is better to focus on other essential genes because complementary genes to these 12 genes may exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akira Suzuki
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Norikazu Yabuta
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Keisuke Shimada
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Daisuke Mashiko
- Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Keizo Tokuhiro
- Department of Genome Editing, Institute of Biomedical Science, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1191, Japan
| | - Yuki Oyama
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Miyata
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Thomas X Garcia
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan.
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3
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Nguyen TTT, Tokuhiro K, Shimada K, Wang H, Mashiko D, Tonai S, Kiyozumi D, Ikawa M. Gene-deficient mouse model established by CRISPR/Cas9 system reveals 15 reproductive organ-enriched genes dispensable for male fertility. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1411162. [PMID: 38835510 PMCID: PMC11148293 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1411162] [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: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the advent of gene-targeting technology in embryonic stem cells, mice have become a primary model organism for investigating human gene function due to the striking genomic similarities between the two species. With the introduction of the CRISPR/Cas9 system for genome editing in mice, the pace of loss-of-function analysis has accelerated significantly. This has led to the identification of numerous genes that play crucial roles in male reproductive processes, including meiosis, chromatin condensation, flagellum formation in the testis, sperm maturation in the epididymis, and fertilization in the oviduct. Despite the advancements, the functions of many genes, particularly those enriched in male reproductive tissues, remain largely unknown. In our study, we focused on 15 genes and generated 13 gene-deficient mice [4933411K16Rik, Adam triple (Adam20, Adam25, and Adam39), BC048671, Cfap68, Gm4846, Gm4984, Gm13570, Nt5c1b, Ppp1r42, Saxo4, Sh3d21, Spz1, and Tektl1] to elucidate their roles in male fertility. Surprisingly, all 13 gene-deficient mice exhibited normal fertility in natural breeding experiments, indicating that these genes are not essential for male fertility. These findings have important implications as they may help prevent other research laboratories from duplicating efforts to generate knockout mice for genes that do not demonstrate an apparent phenotype related to male fertility. By shedding light on the dispensability of these genes, our study contributes to a more efficient allocation of research resources in the exploration of male reproductive biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuyen Thi Thanh Nguyen
- Department of Genome Editing, Institute of Biomedical Science, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Keizo Tokuhiro
- Department of Genome Editing, Institute of Biomedical Science, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Keisuke Shimada
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Haoting Wang
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Daisuke Mashiko
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shingo Tonai
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Daiji Kiyozumi
- Precursory Research for Embryonic Science and Technology (PRESTO), Japan Science and Technology Agency, Tokyo, Japan
- National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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4
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Podvalnaya N, Bronkhorst AW, Lichtenberger R, Hellmann S, Nischwitz E, Falk T, Karaulanov E, Butter F, Falk S, Ketting RF. piRNA processing by a trimeric Schlafen-domain nuclease. Nature 2023; 622:402-409. [PMID: 37758951 PMCID: PMC10567574 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06588-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Transposable elements are genomic parasites that expand within and spread between genomes1. PIWI proteins control transposon activity, notably in the germline2,3. These proteins recognize their targets through small RNA co-factors named PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), making piRNA biogenesis a key specificity-determining step in this crucial genome immunity system. Although the processing of piRNA precursors is an essential step in this process, many of the molecular details remain unclear. Here, we identify an endoribonuclease, precursor of 21U RNA 5'-end cleavage holoenzyme (PUCH), that initiates piRNA processing in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Genetic and biochemical studies show that PUCH, a trimer of Schlafen-like-domain proteins (SLFL proteins), executes 5'-end piRNA precursor cleavage. PUCH-mediated processing strictly requires a 7-methyl-G cap (m7G-cap) and a uracil at position three. We also demonstrate how PUCH interacts with PETISCO, a complex that binds to piRNA precursors4, and that this interaction enhances piRNA production in vivo. The identification of PUCH concludes the search for the 5'-end piRNA biogenesis factor in C. elegans and uncovers a type of RNA endonuclease formed by three SLFL proteins. Mammalian Schlafen (SLFN) genes have been associated with immunity5, exposing a molecular link between immune responses in mammals and deeply conserved RNA-based mechanisms that control transposable elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezda Podvalnaya
- Biology of Non-coding RNA group, Institute of Molecular Biology, Mainz, Germany
- International PhD Programme on Gene Regulation, Epigenetics & Genome Stability, Mainz, Germany
| | - Alfred W Bronkhorst
- Biology of Non-coding RNA group, Institute of Molecular Biology, Mainz, Germany
| | - Raffael Lichtenberger
- Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter Campus (VBC), Vienna, Austria
- Department of Structural and Computational Biology, Center for Molecular Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Svenja Hellmann
- Biology of Non-coding RNA group, Institute of Molecular Biology, Mainz, Germany
| | - Emily Nischwitz
- International PhD Programme on Gene Regulation, Epigenetics & Genome Stability, Mainz, Germany
- Quantitative Proteomics group, Institute of Molecular Biology, Mainz, Germany
| | - Torben Falk
- Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter Campus (VBC), Vienna, Austria
- Department of Structural and Computational Biology, Center for Molecular Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Emil Karaulanov
- Bioinformatics Core Facility, Institute of Molecular Biology, Mainz, Germany
| | - Falk Butter
- Department of Structural and Computational Biology, Center for Molecular Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich Loeffler Institute, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sebastian Falk
- Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter Campus (VBC), Vienna, Austria.
- Department of Structural and Computational Biology, Center for Molecular Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - René F Ketting
- Biology of Non-coding RNA group, Institute of Molecular Biology, Mainz, Germany.
- Institute of Developmental Biology and Neurobiology, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany.
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5
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Bilekova S, Garcia-Colomer B, Cebrian-Serrano A, Schirge S, Krey K, Sterr M, Kurth T, Hauck SM, Lickert H. Inceptor facilitates acrosomal vesicle formation in spermatids and is required for male fertility. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1240039. [PMID: 37691832 PMCID: PMC10483240 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1240039] [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: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a crucial biological process that enables the production of functional sperm, allowing for successful reproduction. Proper germ cell differentiation and maturation require tight regulation of hormonal signals, cellular signaling pathways, and cell biological processes. The acrosome is a lysosome-related organelle at the anterior of the sperm head that contains enzymes and receptors essential for egg-sperm recognition and fusion. Even though several factors crucial for acrosome biogenesis have been discovered, the precise molecular mechanism of pro-acrosomal vesicle formation and fusion is not yet known. In this study, we investigated the role of the insulin inhibitory receptor (inceptor) in acrosome formation. Inceptor is a single-pass transmembrane protein with similarities to mannose-6-phosphate receptors (M6PR). Inceptor knockout male mice are infertile due to malformations in the acrosome and defects in the nuclear shape of spermatozoa. We show that inceptor is expressed in early spermatids and mainly localizes to vesicles between the Golgi apparatus and acrosome. Here we show that inceptor is an essential factor in the intracellular transport of trans-Golgi network-derived vesicles which deliver acrosomal cargo in maturing spermatids. The absence of inceptor results in vesicle-fusion defects, acrosomal malformation, and male infertility. These findings support our hypothesis of inceptor as a universal lysosomal or lysosome-related organelle sorting receptor expressed in several secretory tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bilekova
- Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Balma Garcia-Colomer
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Helmholtz Center Munich, Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Alberto Cebrian-Serrano
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Helmholtz Center Munich, Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Silvia Schirge
- Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Karsten Krey
- School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Virology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Sterr
- Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Kurth
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technology Platform, Core Facility Electron Microscopy and Histology, Dresden University of Technology, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stefanie M. Hauck
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Metabolomics and Proteomics Core, Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, Munich, Germany
| | - Heiko Lickert
- Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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6
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Clement TM, Geyer CB, Willis WD, Goulding EH, Upadhyay S, Eddy EM. Actin-related protein ACTL7B ablation leads to OAT with multiple morphological abnormalities of the flagellum and male infertility in mice†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:447-464. [PMID: 36617158 PMCID: PMC10014417 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The formation of fertilisation-competent sperm requires spermatid morphogenesis (spermiogenesis), a poorly understood program that involves complex coordinated restructuring and specialised cytoskeletal structures. A major class of cytoskeletal regulators are the actin-related proteins (ARPs), which include conventional actin variants, and related proteins that play essential roles in complexes regulating actin dynamics, intracellular transport, and chromatin remodeling. Multiple testis-specific ARPs are well conserved among mammals, but their functional roles are unknown. One of these is actin-like 7b (Actl7b) that encodes an orphan ARP highly similar to the ubiquitously expressed beta actin (ACTB). Here we report ACTL7B is expressed in human and mouse spermatids through the elongation phase of spermatid development. In mice, ACTL7B specifically localises to the developing acrosome, within the nucleus of early spermatids, and to the flagellum connecting region. Based on this localisation pattern and high level of sequence conservation in mice, humans, and other mammals, we examined the requirement for ACTL7B in spermiogenesis by generating and characterising the reproductive phenotype of male Actl7b KO mice. KO mice were infertile, with severe and variable oligoteratozoospermia (OAT) and multiple morphological abnormalities of the flagellum (MMAF) and sperm head. These defects phenocopy human OAT and MMAF, which are leading causes of idiopathic male infertility. In conclusion, this work identifies ACTL7B as a key regulator of spermiogenesis that is required for male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy M Clement
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA
| | - Christopher B Geyer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, and East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute East Carolina University, Greenville, USA
- East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute East Carolina University, Greenville, USA
| | - William D Willis
- Gamete Biology Group, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, Durham, USA
| | - Eugenia H Goulding
- Gamete Biology Group, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, Durham, USA
| | - Srijana Upadhyay
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA
| | - Edward M Eddy
- Gamete Biology Group, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, Durham, USA
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7
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1700029I15Rik orchestrates the biosynthesis of acrosomal membrane proteins required for sperm-egg interaction. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2207263120. [PMID: 36787362 PMCID: PMC9974436 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2207263120] [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] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm acrosomal membrane proteins, such as Izumo sperm-egg fusion 1 (IZUMO1) and sperm acrosome-associated 6 (SPACA6), play essential roles in mammalian gamete binding or fusion. How their biosynthesis is regulated during spermiogenesis has largely remained elusive. Here, we show that 1700029I15Rik knockout male mice are severely subfertile and their spermatozoa do not fuse with eggs. 1700029I15Rik is a type-II transmembrane protein expressed in early round spermatids but not in mature spermatozoa. It interacts with proteins involved in N-linked glycosylation, disulfide isomerization, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-Golgi trafficking, suggesting a potential role in nascent protein processing. The ablation of 1700029I15Rik destabilizes non-catalytic subunits of the oligosaccharyltransferase (OST) complex that are pivotal for N-glycosylation. The knockout testes exhibit normal expression of sperm plasma membrane proteins, but decreased abundance of multiple acrosomal membrane proteins involved in fertilization. The knockout sperm show upregulated chaperones related to ER-associated degradation (ERAD) and elevated protein ubiquitination; strikingly, SPACA6 becomes undetectable. Our results support for a specific, 1700029I15Rik-mediated pathway underpinning the biosynthesis of acrosomal membrane proteins during spermiogenesis.
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Lu Y, Shimada K, Tang S, Zhang J, Ogawa Y, Noda T, Shibuya H, Ikawa M. 1700029I15Rik orchestrates the biosynthesis of acrosomal membrane proteins required for sperm-egg interaction. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023. [PMID: 36787362 DOI: 10.1101/2022.04.15.488448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm acrosomal membrane proteins, such as Izumo sperm-egg fusion 1 (IZUMO1) and sperm acrosome-associated 6 (SPACA6), play essential roles in mammalian gamete binding or fusion. How their biosynthesis is regulated during spermiogenesis has largely remained elusive. Here, we show that 1700029I15Rik knockout male mice are severely subfertile and their spermatozoa do not fuse with eggs. 1700029I15Rik is a type-II transmembrane protein expressed in early round spermatids but not in mature spermatozoa. It interacts with proteins involved in N-linked glycosylation, disulfide isomerization, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-Golgi trafficking, suggesting a potential role in nascent protein processing. The ablation of 1700029I15Rik destabilizes non-catalytic subunits of the oligosaccharyltransferase (OST) complex that are pivotal for N-glycosylation. The knockout testes exhibit normal expression of sperm plasma membrane proteins, but decreased abundance of multiple acrosomal membrane proteins involved in fertilization. The knockout sperm show upregulated chaperones related to ER-associated degradation (ERAD) and elevated protein ubiquitination; strikingly, SPACA6 becomes undetectable. Our results support for a specific, 1700029I15Rik-mediated pathway underpinning the biosynthesis of acrosomal membrane proteins during spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonggang Lu
- Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kentaro Shimada
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Shaogeng Tang
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg SE-41390, Sweden
| | - Yo Ogawa
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Taichi Noda
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Resource Development and Analysis, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-0811, Japan
- Priority Organization for Innovation and Excellence, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-8555, Japan
| | - Hiroki Shibuya
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg SE-41390, Sweden
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Laboratory of Reproductive Systems Biology, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
- Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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9
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Wu Y, Zhang R, Shen C, Xu J, Wu T, Huang X, Liu M, Li H, Xu D, Zheng B. Testis-enriched Asb15 is not required for spermatogenesis and male fertility in mice. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:6978-6990. [PMID: 36398235 PMCID: PMC9641487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The function of Asb15, which encodes an ASB protein with ankyrin (ANK) repeats and a C-terminal suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) box motif, in male germ cells is poorly understood. Because expression of Asb15 is enriched in mouse testis, it may have a role in spermatogenesis. METHODS AND RESULTS We used a computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) system to analyze sperm from Asb15 gene knockout (KO) mice that we generated using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated protein 9 (Cas9) technique. Histological staining and immunostaining were used to evaluate spermatogenesis in Asb15-KO mice. Asb15-KO and wild-type mice showed no differences in histology or in semen quality, fertility, or sperm apoptosis. Asb15- and Asb17-double KO (dKO) mice were generated to determine whether Asb17 compensated for the loss of Asb15. However, Asb15/17-dKO mice also showed normal fertility, except for an increase in giant cells in testicular tubules, suggesting a minor functional compensation between the two genes during spermatogenesis. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that Asb15 was individually not required for spermatogenesis or for fertility in mice. However, further investigation might be needed to reach a firm conclusion. These findings can prevent redundant research by other scientists and provides new information for further studies on the genetics of fertility in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibo Wu
- Human Reproductive and Genetic Center, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan UniversityWuxi 214122, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ranran Zhang
- Human Reproductive and Genetic Center, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan UniversityWuxi 214122, Jiangsu, China
| | - Cong Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical UniversitySuzhou 215002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jinfu Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 211166, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tiantian Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 211166, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoyan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 211166, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingxi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 211166, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical UniversitySuzhou 215002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dewu Xu
- Teaching Affairs Department, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan UniversityWuxi 214122, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bo Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical UniversitySuzhou 215002, Jiangsu, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University)Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
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10
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Holmlund H, Yamauchi Y, Durango G, Fujii W, Ward MA. Two acquired mouse Y chromosome-linked genes, Prssly and Teyorf1, are dispensable for male fertility‡. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:752-764. [PMID: 35485405 PMCID: PMC9476217 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prssly (Protease, serine-like, Chr Y) and Teyorf1 (Testis expressed, chromosome Y open reading frame 1) are two acquired single-copy genes located on the distal tip of the non-pairing short arm of the mouse Y chromosome adjacent to telomeric sequence. Both genes lack X chromosome-linked homologues and are expressed in testicular germ cells. We first performed analysis of Prssly and Teyorf1 genomic sequences and demonstrated that previously reported Prssly sequence is erroneous and the true Prssly sequence is longer and encodes a larger protein than previously estimated. We also confirmed that both genes encode pseudogenes that are not expressed in testes. Next, using CRISPR/Cas9 genome targeting, we generated Prssly and Teyorf1 knockout (KO) mice and characterized their phenotype. To create Prssly KO mice, we targeted the conserved exon 5 encoding a trypsin domain typical for serine proteases. The targeting was successful and resulted in a frame shift mutation that introduced a premature stop codon, with the Prssly KO males retaining only residual transcript expression in testes. The Teyorf1 targeting removed the entire open reading frame of the gene, which resulted in no transcript expression in KO males. Both Prssly KO and Teyorf1 KO males were fertile and had normal testis size and normal sperm number, motility, and morphology. Our findings show that Prssly and Teyorf1 transcripts with potential to encode proteins are dispensable for male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayden Holmlund
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Yasuhiro Yamauchi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Gerald Durango
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Wataru Fujii
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Monika A Ward
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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11
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Moritz L, Hammoud SS. The Art of Packaging the Sperm Genome: Molecular and Structural Basis of the Histone-To-Protamine Exchange. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:895502. [PMID: 35813619 PMCID: PMC9258737 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.895502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Male fertility throughout life hinges on the successful production of motile sperm, a developmental process that involves three coordinated transitions: mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. Germ cells undergo both mitosis and meiosis to generate haploid round spermatids, in which histones bound to the male genome are replaced with small nuclear proteins known as protamines. During this transformation, the chromatin undergoes extensive remodeling to become highly compacted in the sperm head. Despite its central role in spermiogenesis and fertility, we lack a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the remodeling process, including which remodelers/chaperones are involved, and whether intermediate chromatin proteins function as discrete steps, or unite simultaneously to drive successful exchange. Furthermore, it remains largely unknown whether more nuanced interactions instructed by protamine post-translational modifications affect chromatin dynamics or gene expression in the early embryo. Here, we bring together past and more recent work to explore these topics and suggest future studies that will elevate our understanding of the molecular basis of the histone-to-protamine exchange and the underlying etiology of idiopathic male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Moritz
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Saher Sue Hammoud
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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12
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Mo J, Lu Y, Zhu S, Feng L, Qi W, Chen X, Xie B, Chen B, Lan G, Liang J. Genome-Wide Association Studies, Runs of Homozygosity Analysis, and Copy Number Variation Detection to Identify Reproduction-Related Genes in Bama Xiang Pigs. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:892815. [PMID: 35711794 PMCID: PMC9195146 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.892815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Litter size and teat number are economically important traits in the porcine industry. However, the genetic mechanisms influencing these traits remain unknown. In this study, we analyzed the genetic basis of litter size and teat number in Bama Xiang pigs and evaluated the genomic inbreeding coefficients of this breed. We conducted a genome-wide association study to identify runs of homozygosity (ROH), and copy number variation (CNV) using the novel Illumina PorcineSNP50 BeadChip array in Bama Xiang pigs and annotated the related genes in significant single nucleotide polymorphisms and common copy number variation region (CCNVR). We calculated the ROH-based genomic inbreeding coefficients (FROH) and the Spearman coefficient between FROH and reproduction traits. We completed a mixed linear model association analysis to identify the effect of high-frequency copy number variation (HCNVR; over 5%) on Bama Xiang pig reproductive traits using TASSEL software. Across eight chromosomes, we identified 29 significant single nucleotide polymorphisms, and 12 genes were considered important candidates for litter-size traits based on their vital roles in sperm structure, spermatogenesis, sperm function, ovarian or follicular function, and male/female infertility. We identified 9,322 ROHs; the litter-size traits had a significant negative correlation to FROH. A total of 3,317 CNVs, 24 CCNVR, and 50 HCNVR were identified using cnvPartition and PennCNV. Eleven genes related to reproduction were identified in CCNVRs, including seven genes related to the testis and sperm function in CCNVR1 (chr1 from 311585283 to 315307620). Two candidate genes (NEURL1 and SH3PXD2A) related to reproduction traits were identified in HCNVR34. The result suggests that these genes may improve the litter size of Bama Xiang by marker-assisted selection. However, attention should be paid to deter inbreeding in Bama Xiang pigs to conserve their genetic diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayuan Mo
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yujie Lu
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Siran Zhu
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Lingli Feng
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Wenjing Qi
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Xingfa Chen
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Bingkun Xie
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Livestock Genetic Improvement, Guangxi Institute of Animal Science, Nanning, China
| | - Baojian Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Livestock Genetic Improvement, Guangxi Institute of Animal Science, Nanning, China
| | - Ganqiu Lan
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Jing Liang
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Liang
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13
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Stark-Dykema ER, Dulka EA, Gerlinger ER, Mueller JL. X-linked palindromic gene families 4930567H17Rik and Mageb5 are dispensable for male mouse fertility. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8554. [PMID: 35595785 PMCID: PMC9122934 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12433-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian sex chromosomes are enriched for large, nearly-identical, palindromic sequences harboring genes expressed predominately in testicular germ cells. Discerning if individual palindrome-associated gene families are essential for male reproduction is difficult due to challenges in disrupting all copies of a gene family. Here we generate precise, independent, deletions to assess the reproductive roles of two X-linked palindromic gene families with spermatid-predominant expression, 4930567H17Rik and Mageb5. Sequence analyses reveals mouse 4930567H17Rik and Mageb5 are orthologs of human HSFX3 and MAGEB5, respectively, where 4930567H17Rik/HSFX3 is harbored in a palindrome in humans and mice, while Mageb5 is not. Additional sequence analyses show 4930567H17Rik and HSFX3 are rapidly diverging in rodents and primates, respectively. Mice lacking either 4930567H17Rik or Mageb5 gene families do not have detectable defects in male fertility, fecundity, spermatogenesis, or in gene regulation, but do show differences in sperm head morphology, suggesting a potential role in sperm function. We conclude that while all palindrome-associated gene families are not essential for male fertility, large palindromes influence the evolution of their associated gene families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan R Stark-Dykema
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Eden A Dulka
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Emma R Gerlinger
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Jacob L Mueller
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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14
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Sarver DC, Xu C, Carreno D, Arking A, Terrillion CE, Aja S, Wong GW. CTRP11 contributes modestly to systemic metabolism and energy balance. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22347. [PMID: 35579659 PMCID: PMC9164276 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200189rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
C1q/TNF‐related proteins (CTRP1‐15) constitute a conserved group of secreted proteins of the C1q family with diverse functions. In vitro studies have shown that CTRP11/C1QL4 can inhibit adipogenesis, antagonize myoblast fusion, and promote testosterone synthesis and secretion. Whether CTRP11 is required for these processes in vivo remains unknown. Here, we show that knockout (KO) mice lacking CTRP11 have normal skeletal muscle mass and function, and testosterone level, suggesting that CTRP11 is dispensable for skeletal muscle development and testosterone production. We focused our analysis on whether this nutrient‐responsive secreted protein plays a role in controlling sugar and fat metabolism. At baseline when mice are fed a standard chow, CTRP11 deficiency affects metabolic parameters in a sexually dimorphic manner. Only Ctrp11‐KO female mice have significantly higher fasting serum ketones and reduced physical activity. In the refeeding phase following food withdrawal, Ctrp11‐KO female mice have reduced food intake and increased metabolic rate and energy expenditure, highlighting CTRP11’s role in fasting–refeeding response. When challenged with a high‐fat diet to induce obesity and metabolic dysfunction, CTRP11 deficiency modestly exacerbates obesity‐induced glucose intolerance, with more pronounced effects seen in Ctrp11‐KO male mice. Switching to a low‐fat diet after obesity induction results in greater fat loss in wild type relative to KO male mice, suggesting impaired response to obesity reversal and reduced metabolic flexibility in the absence of CTRP11. Collectively, our data provide genetic evidence for novel sex‐dependent metabolic regulation by CTRP11, but note the overall modest contribution of CTRP11 to systemic energy homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan C Sarver
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Cheng Xu
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Dana Carreno
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Alexander Arking
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Chantelle E Terrillion
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Susan Aja
- Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - G William Wong
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Center for Metabolism and Obesity Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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15
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Ali H, Unar A, Dil S, Ali I, Khan K, Khan I, Shi Q. Testis-specific fascin component FSCN3 is dispensable for mouse spermatogenesis and fertility. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:6261-6268. [PMID: 35449315 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07429-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fascins belong to a family of actin-bundling proteins that are involved in a wide range of biological functions. FSCN3, a newly identified testis-specific actin-bundling protein, is specifically expressed in elongated spermatids. However, its in vivo function in mouse spermiogenesis remains unknown. METHODS AND RESULTS We generated Fscn3 knockout mice through CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology. Fscn3-/- mice displayed normal testis morphology and testis to bodyweight ratio, and sperm concentrations did not differ significantly between Fscn3+/+ and Fscn3-/- mice. Fertility assays consistently revealed that Fscn3-/- mice are completely fertile and their reproductive status does not differ from that of wild-type. Moreover, hematoxylin and eosin staining of the testis sections of Fscn3-/- mice detected various germ cells, ranging from spermatogonia to mature spermatozoa. Furthermore, the swimming velocity of the sperm of Fscn3-/- mice was comparable to that of their wild-type littermates. Both Fscn3+/+ and Fscn3-/-mice had normal sperm morphology, indicating that the disruption of Fscn3 does not affect sperm morphology. The analysis of meiotic prophase I progression demonstrated normal prophase-I phases (leptonema to diplonema) in both Fscn3+/+ and Fscn3-/- mice, suggesting that Fscn3 is not essential for meiosis I. CONCLUSION Our study provides the first evidence that FSCN3 is a testis-specific actin-bundling protein that is not required for mouse spermatogenesis. Our results will help reproductive biologists focus their efforts on genes that are crucial for fertility and avoid research duplication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haider Ali
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Ahsanullah Unar
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Sobia Dil
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Imtiaz Ali
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Khalid Khan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Ihsan Khan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Qinghua Shi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
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16
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Overexpression of bmp4, dazl, nanos3 and sycp2 in Hu Sheep Leydig Cells Using CRISPR/dcas9 System Promoted Male Germ Cell Related Gene Expression. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020289. [PMID: 35205154 PMCID: PMC8869737 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Male germ cell development plays a crucial role in male reproduction, and gene expression also presents an essential regulatory role in its development. Many studies have been devoted to the induction and differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into germ cells in vitro. However, the culture system for pluripotent stem cells from domestic animals is not stable, especially in sheep. Our study attempted to transdifferentiate sheep somatic cells into germ cells in vitro by the overexpression of key germ cell related genes, with the aim of perfecting the construction of germ cell research models in vitro. Therefore, we explored the expression pattern of four crucial genes, bmp4, dazl, nanos3 and sycp2, in Hu sheep testicular development, and investigated the potential efficiency of overexpression of the four candidate genes using the CRISPR/dcas9 system in Leydig cells. We revealed that the overexpression of bmp4, dazl, nanos3 and sycp2 can promote the expression of male germ cell related genes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to construct an overexpression induction system using CRISPR/dcas9 technology, and to induce sheep somatic cells into germ cells in vitro. Abstract Male germ cells directly affect the reproduction of males; however, their accurate isolation and culture in vitro is extremely challenging, hindering the study of germ cell development and function. CRISPR/dcas9, as an efficient gene reprogramming system, has been verified to promote the transdifferentiation of pluripotent stem cells into male germ cells by editing target genes. In our research, we explored the expression pattern of the germ cell related genes bmp4, dazl,nanos3 and sycp2 in Hu sheep testicular development and constructed the overexpression model using the CRISPR/dcas9 system. The results indicated that four genes showed more expression in testis tissue than in other tissues, and that bmp4, dazl and sycp2 present higher expression levels in nine-month-old sheep testes than in three-month-olds, while nanos3 expressed the opposite trend (p < 0.05). In addition, the expression of four potential genes in spermatogenic cells was slightly different, but they were all expressed in sheep Leydig cells. To verify the potential roles of the four genes in the process of inducing differentiation of male germ cells, we performed cell transfection in vitro. We found that the expression of the germ cell related genes Prdm1, Prdm14, Mvh and Sox17 were significantly increased after the overexpression of the four genes in Leydig cells, and the co-transfection effect was the most significant (p < 0.05). Our results illustrate the crucial functions of bmp4, dazl, nanos3 and sycp2 in Hu sheep testis development and verified the effectiveness of the overexpression model that was constructed using the CRISPR/dcas9 system, which provided a basis for further male germ cell differentiation in vitro.
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17
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Cazin C, Neirijnck Y, Loeuillet C, Wehrli L, Kühne F, Lordey I, Mustapha SFB, Bouker A, Zouari R, Thierry-Mieg N, Nef S, Arnoult C, Ray PF, Kherraf ZE. Combined Use of Whole Exome Sequencing and CRISPR/Cas9 to Study the Etiology of Non-Obstructive Azoospermia: Demonstration of the Dispensable Role of the Testis-Specific Genes C1orf185 and CCT6B. Cells 2021; 11:cells11010118. [PMID: 35011680 PMCID: PMC8750304 DOI: 10.3390/cells11010118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The genetic landscape of male infertility is highly complex. It is estimated that at least 4000 genes are involved in human spermatogenesis, but only few have so far been extensively studied. In this study, we investigated by whole exome sequencing two cases of idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) due to severe hypospermatogenesis. After variant filtering and prioritizing, we retained for each patient a homozygous loss-of-function (LoF) variant in a testis-specific gene, C1orf185 (c.250C>T; p.Gln84Ter) and CCT6B (c.615-2A>G), respectively. Both variants are rare according to the gnomAD database and absent from our local control cohort (n = 445). To verify the implication of these candidate genes in NOA, we used the CRISPR/Cas9 system to invalidate the mouse orthologs 4930522H14Rik and Cct6b and produced two knockout (KO) mouse lines. Sperm and testis parameters of homozygous KO adult male mice were analyzed and compared with those of wild-type animals. We showed that homozygous KO males were fertile and displayed normal sperm parameters and a functional spermatogenesis. Overall, these results demonstrate that not all genes highly and specifically expressed in the testes are essential for spermatogenesis, and in particular, we conclude that bi-allelic variants of C1orf185 and CCT6B are most likely not to be involved in NOA and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Cazin
- Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, University Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000 Grenoble, France; (C.C.); (C.L.); (C.A.); (P.F.R.)
- UM GI-DPI, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France;
| | - Yasmine Neirijnck
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Genève 4, Switzerland; (Y.N.); (L.W.); (F.K.); (S.N.)
| | - Corinne Loeuillet
- Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, University Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000 Grenoble, France; (C.C.); (C.L.); (C.A.); (P.F.R.)
| | - Lydia Wehrli
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Genève 4, Switzerland; (Y.N.); (L.W.); (F.K.); (S.N.)
| | - Françoise Kühne
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Genève 4, Switzerland; (Y.N.); (L.W.); (F.K.); (S.N.)
| | | | - Selima Fourati Ben Mustapha
- Centre d’Aide Médicale à la Procréation, Polyclinique les Jasmins, Centre Urbain Nord, Tunis 1003, Tunisia; (S.F.B.M.); (A.B.); (R.Z.)
| | - Amin Bouker
- Centre d’Aide Médicale à la Procréation, Polyclinique les Jasmins, Centre Urbain Nord, Tunis 1003, Tunisia; (S.F.B.M.); (A.B.); (R.Z.)
| | - Raoudha Zouari
- Centre d’Aide Médicale à la Procréation, Polyclinique les Jasmins, Centre Urbain Nord, Tunis 1003, Tunisia; (S.F.B.M.); (A.B.); (R.Z.)
| | | | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Genève 4, Switzerland; (Y.N.); (L.W.); (F.K.); (S.N.)
| | - Christophe Arnoult
- Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, University Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000 Grenoble, France; (C.C.); (C.L.); (C.A.); (P.F.R.)
| | - Pierre F. Ray
- Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, University Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000 Grenoble, France; (C.C.); (C.L.); (C.A.); (P.F.R.)
- UM GI-DPI, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France;
| | - Zine-Eddine Kherraf
- Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, University Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000 Grenoble, France; (C.C.); (C.L.); (C.A.); (P.F.R.)
- UM GI-DPI, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-(0)4-7676-8303
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18
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Fujihara Y, Herberg S, Blaha A, Panser K, Kobayashi K, Larasati T, Novatchkova M, Theussl HC, Olszanska O, Ikawa M, Pauli A. The conserved fertility factor SPACA4/Bouncer has divergent modes of action in vertebrate fertilization. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2108777118. [PMID: 34556579 PMCID: PMC8488580 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2108777118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertilization is the fundamental process that initiates the development of a new individual in all sexually reproducing species. Despite its importance, our understanding of the molecular players that govern mammalian sperm-egg interaction is incomplete, partly because many of the essential factors found in nonmammalian species do not have obvious mammalian homologs. We have recently identified the lymphocyte antigen-6 (Ly6)/urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) protein Bouncer as an essential fertilization factor in zebrafish [S. Herberg, K. R. Gert, A. Schleiffer, A. Pauli, Science 361, 1029-1033 (2018)]. Here, we show that Bouncer's homolog in mammals, Sperm Acrosome Associated 4 (SPACA4), is also required for efficient fertilization in mice. In contrast to fish, in which Bouncer is expressed specifically in the egg, SPACA4 is expressed exclusively in the sperm. Male knockout mice are severely subfertile, and sperm lacking SPACA4 fail to fertilize wild-type eggs in vitro. Interestingly, removal of the zona pellucida rescues the fertilization defect of Spaca4-deficient sperm in vitro, indicating that SPACA4 is not required for the interaction of sperm and the oolemma but rather of sperm and the zona pellucida. Our work identifies SPACA4 as an important sperm protein necessary for zona pellucida penetration during mammalian fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitaka Fujihara
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Bioscience and Genetics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Suita 564-8565, Japan
| | - Sarah Herberg
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna BioCenter, Campus-Vienna-Biocenter 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Blaha
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna BioCenter, Campus-Vienna-Biocenter 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
- Vienna BioCenter PhD Program, Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Karin Panser
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna BioCenter, Campus-Vienna-Biocenter 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Kiyonori Kobayashi
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tamara Larasati
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Maria Novatchkova
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna BioCenter, Campus-Vienna-Biocenter 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Hans-Christian Theussl
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna BioCenter, Campus-Vienna-Biocenter 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Olga Olszanska
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna BioCenter, Campus-Vienna-Biocenter 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan;
- The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Andrea Pauli
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna BioCenter, Campus-Vienna-Biocenter 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria;
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19
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Wang S, Qiao H, Wang P, Wang Y, Qin D. ZDHHC19 Is Dispensable for Spermatogenesis, but Is Essential for Sperm Functions in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168894. [PMID: 34445597 PMCID: PMC8396176 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complicated process involving mitotically proliferating spermatogonial cells, meiotically dividing spermatocytes, and spermatid going through maturation into spermatozoa. The post-translational modifications of proteins play important roles in this biological process. S-palmitoylation is one type of protein modifications catalyzed by zinc finger Asp-His-His-Cys (ZDHHC)-family palmitoyl S-acyltransferases. There are 23 mammalian ZDHHCs that have been identified in mouse. Among them, Zdhhc19 is highly expressed in adult testis. However, the in vivo function of Zdhhc19 in mouse spermatogenesis and fertility remains unknown. In this study, we knocked out the Zdhhc19 gene by generating a 2609 bp deletion from exon 3 to exon 6 in mice. No differences were found in testis morphology and testis/body weight ratios upon Zdhhc19 deletion. Spermatogenesis was not disrupted in Zdhhc19 knockout mice, in which properly developed TRA98+ germ cells, SYCP3+ spermatocytes, and TNP1+ spermatids/spermatozoa were detected in seminiferous tubules. Nevertheless, Zdhhc19 knockout mice were male infertile. Zdhhc19 deficient spermatozoa exhibited multiple defects including abnormal morphology of sperm tails and heads, decreased motility, and disturbed acrosome reaction. All of these led to the inability of Zdhhc19 mutant sperm to fertilize oocytes in IVF assays. Taken together, our results support the fact that Zdhhc19 is a testis enriched gene dispensable for spermatogenesis, but is essential for sperm functions in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Wang
- Department of Physiology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (S.W.); (H.Q.)
| | - Hongjie Qiao
- Department of Physiology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (S.W.); (H.Q.)
| | - Pengxiang Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China;
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Correspondence: (Y.W.); (D.Q.)
| | - Danian Qin
- Department of Physiology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (S.W.); (H.Q.)
- Correspondence: (Y.W.); (D.Q.)
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20
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CRISPR/Cas9-based genetic screen of SCNT-reprogramming resistant genes identifies critical genes for male germ cell development in mice. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15438. [PMID: 34326397 PMCID: PMC8322354 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94851-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Male germ cells undergo complex developmental processes eventually producing spermatozoa through spermatogenesis, although the molecular mechanisms remain largely elusive. We have previously identified somatic cell nuclear transfer-reprogramming resistant genes (SRRGs) that are highly enriched for genes essential for spermatogenesis, although many of them remain uncharacterized in knockout (KO) mice. Here, we performed a CRISPR-based genetic screen using C57BL/6N mice for five uncharacterized SRRGs (Cox8c, Cox7b2, Tuba3a/3b, Faiml, and Gm773), together with meiosis essential gene Majin as a control. RT-qPCR analysis of mouse adult tissues revealed that the five selected SRRGs were exclusively expressed in testis. Analysis of single-cell RNA-seq datasets of adult testis revealed stage-specific expression (pre-, mid-, or post-meiotic expression) in testicular germ cells. Examination of testis morphology, histology, and sperm functions in CRISPR-injected KO adult males revealed that Cox7b2, Gm773, and Tuba3a/3b are required for the production of normal spermatozoa. Specifically, Cox7b2 KO mice produced poorly motile infertile spermatozoa, Gm773 KO mice produced motile spermatozoa with limited zona penetration abilities, and Tuba3a/3b KO mice completely lost germ cells at the early postnatal stages. Our genetic screen focusing on SRRGs efficiently identified critical genes for male germ cell development in mice, which also provides insights into human reproductive medicine.
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21
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Abstract
Fertilization is a multistep process that culminates in the fusion of sperm and egg, thus marking the beginning of a new organism in sexually reproducing species. Despite its importance for reproduction, the molecular mechanisms that regulate this singular event, particularly sperm-egg fusion, have remained mysterious for many decades. Here, we summarize our current molecular understanding of sperm-egg interaction, focusing mainly on mammalian fertilization. Given the fundamental importance of sperm-egg fusion yet the lack of knowledge of this process in vertebrates, we discuss hallmarks and emerging themes of cell fusion by drawing from well-studied examples such as viral entry, placenta formation, and muscle development. We conclude by identifying open questions and exciting avenues for future studies in gamete fusion. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Cell and Developmental Biology, Volume 37 is October 2021. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria E Deneke
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria; ,
| | - Andrea Pauli
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria; ,
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22
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ARMC12 regulates spatiotemporal mitochondrial dynamics during spermiogenesis and is required for male fertility. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2018355118. [PMID: 33536340 PMCID: PMC8017931 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2018355118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Although formation of the mitochondrial sheath is a critical process in the formation of mature spermatozoa, the molecular mechanisms involved in mitochondrial sheath genesis remain unclear. Using gene-manipulated mice, we discovered that ARMC12 regulates spatiotemporal “sperm mitochondrial dynamics” during mitochondrial sheath formation through interactions with mitochondrial proteins MIC60, VDAC2, and VDAC3 as well as testis-specific proteins TBC1D21 and GK2. In addition, we demonstrated that ARMC12-interacting proteins TBC1D21 and GK2 are also essential for mitochondrial sheath formation. Our paper sheds light on the molecular mechanisms of mitochondrial sheath formation and the regulation of sperm mitochondrial dynamics, allowing us to further understand the biology of spermatogenesis and the etiology of infertility in men. The mammalian sperm midpiece has a unique double-helical structure called the mitochondrial sheath that wraps tightly around the axoneme. Despite the remarkable organization of the mitochondrial sheath, the molecular mechanisms involved in mitochondrial sheath formation are unclear. In the process of screening testis-enriched genes for functions in mice, we identified armadillo repeat-containing 12 (ARMC12) as an essential protein for mitochondrial sheath formation. Here, we engineered Armc12-null mice, FLAG-tagged Armc12 knock-in mice, and TBC1 domain family member 21 (Tbc1d21)-null mice to define the functions of ARMC12 in mitochondrial sheath formation in vivo. We discovered that absence of ARMC12 causes abnormal mitochondrial coiling along the flagellum, resulting in reduced sperm motility and male sterility. During spermiogenesis, sperm mitochondria in Armc12-null mice cannot elongate properly at the mitochondrial interlocking step which disrupts abnormal mitochondrial coiling. ARMC12 is a mitochondrial peripheral membrane protein and functions as an adherence factor between mitochondria in cultured cells. ARMC12 in testicular germ cells interacts with mitochondrial proteins MIC60, VDAC2, and VDAC3 as well as TBC1D21 and GK2, which are required for mitochondrial sheath formation. We also observed that TBC1D21 is essential for the interaction between ARMC12 and VDAC proteins in vivo. These results indicate that ARMC12 uses integral mitochondrial membrane proteins VDAC2 and VDAC3 as scaffolds to link mitochondria and works cooperatively with TBC1D21. Thus, our studies have revealed that ARMC12 regulates spatiotemporal mitochondrial dynamics to form the mitochondrial sheath through cooperative interactions with several proteins on the sperm mitochondrial surface.
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23
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Bellil H, Ghieh F, Hermel E, Mandon-Pepin B, Vialard F. Human testis-expressed (TEX) genes: a review focused on spermatogenesis and male fertility. Basic Clin Androl 2021; 31:9. [PMID: 33882832 PMCID: PMC8061069 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-021-00127-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process regulated by a multitude of genes. The identification and characterization of male-germ-cell-specific genes is crucial to understanding the mechanisms through which the cells develop. The term “TEX gene” was coined by Wang et al. (Nat Genet. 2001; 27: 422–6) after they used cDNA suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) to identify new transcripts that were present only in purified mouse spermatogonia. TEX (Testis expressed) orthologues have been found in other vertebrates (mammals, birds, and reptiles), invertebrates, and yeasts. To date, 69 TEX genes have been described in different species and different tissues. To evaluate the expression of each TEX/tex gene, we compiled data from 7 different RNA-Seq mRNA databases in humans, and 4 in the mouse according to the expression atlas database. Various studies have highlighted a role for many of these genes in spermatogenesis. Here, we review current knowledge on the TEX genes and their roles in spermatogenesis and fertilization in humans and, comparatively, in other species (notably the mouse). As expected, TEX genes appear to have a major role in reproduction in general and in spermatogenesis in humans but also in all mammals such as the mouse. Most of them are expressed specifically or predominantly in the testis. As most of the TEX genes are highly conserved in mammals, defects in the male (gene mutations in humans and gene-null mice) lead to infertility. In the future, cumulative data on the human TEX genes’ physiological functions and pathophysiological dysfunctions should become available and is likely to confirm the essential role of this family in the reproductive process. Thirteen TEX genes are now referenced in the OMIM database, and 3 have been linked to a specific phenotype. TEX11 (on Xq13.1) is currently the gene most frequently reported as being associated with azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hela Bellil
- Département de Génétique, CHI de Poissy St Germain en Laye, Poissy, France
| | - Farah Ghieh
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, F-78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, F-94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Emeline Hermel
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, F-78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, F-94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Béatrice Mandon-Pepin
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, F-78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, F-94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - François Vialard
- Département de Génétique, CHI de Poissy St Germain en Laye, Poissy, France. .,Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, F-78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France. .,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, F-94700, Maisons-Alfort, France.
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24
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Wu Y, Wang T, Zhao Z, Liu S, Shen C, Li H, Liu M, Zheng B, Yu J, Huang X. Retinoic Acid Induced Protein 14 ( Rai14) is dispensable for mouse spermatogenesis. PeerJ 2021; 9:e10847. [PMID: 33643708 PMCID: PMC7899019 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinoic Acid Induced Protein 14 (Rai14) is an evolutionarily conserved gene that is highly expressed in the testis. Previous experiments have reported that small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated gene knockdown (KD) of Rai14 in rat testis disrupted spermatid polarity and transport. Of note, a gene knockout (KO) model is considered the "gold standard" for in vivo assessment of crucial gene functions. Herein, we used CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing to investigate the in vivo role of Rai14 in mouse testis. METHODS Sperm concentration and motility were assayed using a computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) system. Histological and immunofluorescence (IF) staining and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to visualize the effects of Rai14 KO in the testes and epididymides. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) was used to determine apoptotic cells. Gene transcript levels were calculated by real-time quantitative PCR. RESULTS Rai14 KO in mice depicted normal fertility and complete spermatogenesis, which is in sharp contrast with the results reported previously in a Rai14 KD rat model. Sperm parameters and cellular apoptosis did not appear to differ between wild-type (WT) and KO group. Mechanistically, in contrast to the well-known role of Rai14 in modulating the dynamics of F-actin at the ectoplasmic specialization (ES) junction in the testis, morphological changes of ES junction exhibited no differences between Rai14 KO and WT testes. Moreover, the F-actin surrounded at the ES junction was also comparable between the two groups. CONCLUSION In summary, our study demonstrates that Rai14 is dispensable for mouse spermatogenesis and fertility. Although the results of this study were negative, the phenotypic information obtained herein provide an enhanced understanding of the role of Rai14 in the testis, and researchers may refer to these results to avoid conducting redundant experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zigao Zhao
- Yunnan Institute of Population and Family Planning Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Siyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Cong Shen
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hong Li
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Mingxi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bo Zheng
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaoyan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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25
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Doroftei B, Ilie OD, Puiu M, Ciobica A, Ilea C. Mini-Review Regarding the Applicability of Genome Editing Techniques Developed for Studying Infertility. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11020246. [PMID: 33562517 PMCID: PMC7915733 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11020246] [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: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a highly debated topic today. It has been long hypothesized that infertility has an idiopathic cause, but recent studies demonstrated the existence of a genetic substrate. Fortunately, the methods of editing the human genome proven to be revolutionary. Following research conducted, we identified a total of 21 relevant studies; 14 were performed on mice, 5 on zebrafish and 2 on rats. We concluded that over forty-four genes in total are dispensable for fertility in both sexes without affecting host homeostasis. However, there are genes whose loss-of-function induces moderate to severe phenotypic changes in both sexes. There were situations in which the authors reported infertility, exhibited by the experimental model, or other pathologies such as cryptorchidism, cataracts, or reduced motor activity. Overall, zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/Cas9 are techniques that offer a wide range of possibilities for studying infertility, even to create mutant variants. It can be concluded that ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR/Cas9 are crucial tools in biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bogdan Doroftei
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street, no 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (B.D.); (C.I.)
- Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology “Cuza Voda”, Cuza Voda Street, no 34, 700038 Iasi, Romania
- Origyn Fertility Center, Palace Street, no 3C, 700032 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ovidiu-Dumitru Ilie
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University, Carol I Avenue, no 20A, 700505 Iasi, Romania;
- Correspondence:
| | - Maria Puiu
- Department of Microscopic Morphology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeș”, Eftimie Murgu Square, no 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Alin Ciobica
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University, Carol I Avenue, no 20A, 700505 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Ciprian Ilea
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street, no 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (B.D.); (C.I.)
- Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology “Cuza Voda”, Cuza Voda Street, no 34, 700038 Iasi, Romania
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