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van Maaren J, Alves LF, van Wely M, van Pelt AMM, Mulder CL. Favorable culture conditions for spermatogonial propagation in human and non-human primate primary testicular cell cultures: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1330830. [PMID: 38259514 PMCID: PMC10800969 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1330830] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Autologous transplantation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) isolated from cryopreserved testicular biopsies obtained before oncological treatment could restore fertility in male childhood cancer survivors. There is a clear necessity for in vitro propagation of the limited SSCs from the testicular biopsy prior to transplantation due to limited numbers of spermatogonia in a cryopreserved testicular biopsy. Still, there is no consensus regarding their optimal culture method. Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies reporting primary testicular cell cultures of human and non-human primate origin through use of Pubmed, EMBASE, and Web of Science core collection databases. Of 760 records, we included 42 articles for qualitative and quantitative analysis. To quantify in vitro spermatogonial propagation, spermatogonial colony doubling time (CDT) was calculated, which measures the increase in the number of spermatogonial colonies over time. A generalized linear mixed model analysis was used to assess the statistical effect of various culture conditions on CDT. Results: Our analysis indicates decreased CDTs, indicating faster spermatogonial propagation in cultures with a low culture temperature (32°C); with use of non-cellular matrices; use of StemPro-34 medium instead of DMEM; use of Knockout Serum Replacement; and when omitting additional growth factors in the culture medium. Discussion: The use of various methods and markers to detect the presence of spermatogonia within the reported cultures could result in detection bias, thereby potentially influencing comparability between studies. However, through use of CDT in the quantitative analysis this bias was reduced. Our results provide insight into critical culture conditions to further optimize human spermatogonial propagation in vitro, and effectively propagate and utilize these cells in a future fertility restoration therapy and restore hope of biological fatherhood for childhood cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillis van Maaren
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Luis F. Alves
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Madelon van Wely
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ans M. M. van Pelt
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Callista L. Mulder
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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2
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Torres-Flores U, Díaz-Espinosa F, López-Santaella T, Rebollar-Vega R, Vázquez-Jiménez A, Taylor IJ, Ortiz-Hernández R, Echeverría OM, Vázquez-Nin GH, Gutierrez-Ruiz MC, De la Rosa-Velázquez IA, Resendis-Antonio O, Hernández-Hernandez A. Spermiogenesis alterations in the absence of CTCF revealed by single cell RNA sequencing. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1119514. [PMID: 37065848 PMCID: PMC10097911 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1119514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
CTCF is an architectonic protein that organizes the genome inside the nucleus in almost all eukaryotic cells. There is evidence that CTCF plays a critical role during spermatogenesis as its depletion produces abnormal sperm and infertility. However, defects produced by its depletion throughout spermatogenesis have not been fully characterized. In this work, we performed single cell RNA sequencing in spermatogenic cells with and without CTCF. We uncovered defects in transcriptional programs that explain the severity of the damage in the produced sperm. In the early stages of spermatogenesis, transcriptional alterations are mild. As germ cells go through the specialization stage or spermiogenesis, transcriptional profiles become more altered. We found morphology defects in spermatids that support the alterations in their transcriptional profiles. Altogether, our study sheds light on the contribution of CTCF to the phenotype of male gametes and provides a fundamental description of its role at different stages of spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulises Torres-Flores
- Graduate Program in Experimental Biology, DCBS, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Unidad Iztapalapa, México City, Mexico
- Biología de Células Individuales (BIOCELIN), Laboratorio de Investigación en Patología Experimental, Hospital Infantíl de México Federico Gómez, México City, Mexico
| | - Fernanda Díaz-Espinosa
- Biología de Células Individuales (BIOCELIN), Laboratorio de Investigación en Patología Experimental, Hospital Infantíl de México Federico Gómez, México City, Mexico
| | - Tayde López-Santaella
- Biología de Células Individuales (BIOCELIN), Laboratorio de Investigación en Patología Experimental, Hospital Infantíl de México Federico Gómez, México City, Mexico
| | - Rosa Rebollar-Vega
- Coordinación de la Investigación Científica-Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México e Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas yNutrición Salvador Zubirán, México City, Mexico
| | - Aarón Vázquez-Jiménez
- Coordinación de la Investigación Científica-Red de Apoyo a la Investigación-Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, Mexico
- Human Systems Biology Laboratory, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ian J. Taylor
- BD Life Sciences Informatics, Ashland, OR, United States
| | - Rosario Ortiz-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Olga M. Echeverría
- Laboratorio de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Gerardo H. Vázquez-Nin
- Laboratorio de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - María Concepción Gutierrez-Ruiz
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Celular y Medicina Traslacional, Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-I, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Inti Alberto De la Rosa-Velázquez
- Coordinación de la Investigación Científica-Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México e Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas yNutrición Salvador Zubirán, México City, Mexico
| | - Osbaldo Resendis-Antonio
- Coordinación de la Investigación Científica-Red de Apoyo a la Investigación-Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, Mexico
- Human Systems Biology Laboratory, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica, Mexico City, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Osbaldo Resendis-Antonio, ; Abrahan Hernández-Hernandez,
| | - Abrahan Hernández-Hernandez
- Biología de Células Individuales (BIOCELIN), Laboratorio de Investigación en Patología Experimental, Hospital Infantíl de México Federico Gómez, México City, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Osbaldo Resendis-Antonio, ; Abrahan Hernández-Hernandez,
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Yang F, Sun J, Wu X. Primary Cultures of Spermatogonia and Testis Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2656:127-143. [PMID: 37249869 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3139-3_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) maintain adult spermatogenesis in mammals by undergoing self-renewal and differentiation into spermatozoa. In order to study the biology of SSCs as related to spermatogenesis, an in vitro, long-term expansion system of SSCs constitutes an ideal tool. In this chapter, we describe a robust culture system for mouse and rat SSCs in vitro. In the presence of GDNF, GFRα1, and bFGF, SSCs maintained on STO feeder layers with serum-free medium continuously proliferate for over 6 months. Complete spermatogenesis in infertile recipient mice can be attained following transplantation of the cultured mouse and rat SSCs. Using the in vitro SSC culture systems, elucidation of stem cell biology can be advanced that significantly advances our understanding of spermatogenesis and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiachen Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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4
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Dong S, Chen C, Zhang J, Gao Y, Zeng X, Zhang X. Testicular aging, male fertility and beyond. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1012119. [PMID: 36313743 PMCID: PMC9606211 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1012119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Normal spermatogenesis and sperm function are crucial for male fertility. The effects of healthy testicular aging and testicular premature aging on spermatogenesis, sperm function, and the spermatogenesis microenvironment cannot be ignored. Compared with younger men, the testis of older men tends to have disturbed spermatogenic processes, sperm abnormalities, sperm dysfunction, and impaired Sertoli and Leydig cells, which ultimately results in male infertility. Various exogenous and endogenous factors also contribute to pathological testicular premature aging, such as adverse environmental stressors and gene mutations. Mechanistically, Y-chromosomal microdeletions, increase in telomere length and oxidative stress, accumulation of DNA damage with decreased repair ability, alterations in epigenetic modifications, miRNA and lncRNA expression abnormalities, have been associated with impaired male fertility due to aging. In recent years, the key molecules and signaling pathways that regulate testicular aging and premature aging have been identified, thereby providing new strategies for diagnosis and treatment. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the underlying mechanisms of aging on spermatogenesis. Furthermore, potential rescue measures for reproductive aging have been discussed. Finally, the inadequacy of testicular aging research and future directions for research have been envisaged to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of testicular aging and premature aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijue Dong
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jiali Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Laboratory Animal Center, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xuhui Zeng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaoning Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
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5
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Isolation of Female Germline Stem Cells from Mouse and Human Ovaries by Differential Adhesion. Int J Cell Biol 2022; 2022:5224659. [PMID: 36120418 PMCID: PMC9473869 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5224659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) counterparts known as female germline stem cells (fGSCs) were found in the mammalian ovary in 2004. Although the existence of fGSCs in the mammalian postnatal ovary is still under controversy, fGSC discovery encourages investigators to better understand the various aspects of these cells. However, their existence is not accepted by all scientists in the field because isolation of fGSCs by fluorescent activated cell sorting (FACS) has not been reproducible. In this study, we used differential adhesion to isolate and enrich fGSCs from mouse and human ovaries and subsequently cultured them in vitro. fGSCs were able to proliferate in vitro and expressed germ cell-specific markers Vasa, Dazl, Blimp1, Fragilis, Stella, and Oct4, at the protein level. Moreover, mouse and human fGSCs were, respectively, cultured for more than four months and one month in culture. Both mouse and human fGSCs maintained the expression of germ cell-specific markers over these times. In vitro cultured fGSCs spontaneously produced oocyte-like cells (OLCs) which expressed oocyte-relevant markers. Our results demonstrated that differential adhesion allows reproducible isolation of fGSCs that are able to proliferate in vitro over time. This source of fGSCs can serve as a suitable material for studying mechanisms underlying female germ cell development and function.
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Sanou I, van Maaren J, Eliveld J, Lei Q, Meißner A, de Melker AA, Hamer G, van Pelt AMM, Mulder CL. Spermatogonial Stem Cell-Based Therapies: Taking Preclinical Research to the Next Level. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:850219. [PMID: 35444616 PMCID: PMC9013905 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.850219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation via biobanking of testicular tissue retrieved from testicular biopsies is now generally recommended for boys who need to undergo gonadotoxic treatment prior to the onset of puberty, as a source of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). SSCs have the potential of forming spermatids and may be used for therapeutic fertility approaches later in life. Although in the past 30 years many milestones have been reached to work towards SSC-based fertility restoration therapies, including transplantation of SSCs, grafting of testicular tissue and various in vitro and ex vivo spermatogenesis approaches, unfortunately, all these fertility therapies are still in a preclinical phase and not yet available for patients who have become infertile because of their treatment during childhood. Therefore, it is now time to take the preclinical research towards SSC-based therapy to the next level to resolve major issues that impede clinical implementation. This review gives an outline of the state of the art of the effectiveness and safety of fertility preservation and SSC-based therapies and addresses the hurdles that need to be taken for optimal progression towards actual clinical implementation of safe and effective SSC-based fertility treatments in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Sanou
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jillis van Maaren
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jitske Eliveld
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Qijing Lei
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Andreas Meißner
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Urology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Annemieke A de Melker
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Geert Hamer
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Callista L Mulder
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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7
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Di Persio S, Tekath T, Siebert-Kuss LM, Cremers JF, Wistuba J, Li X, Meyer Zu Hörste G, Drexler HCA, Wyrwoll MJ, Tüttelmann F, Dugas M, Kliesch S, Schlatt S, Laurentino S, Neuhaus N. Single-cell RNA-seq unravels alterations of the human spermatogonial stem cell compartment in patients with impaired spermatogenesis. CELL REPORTS MEDICINE 2021; 2:100395. [PMID: 34622232 PMCID: PMC8484693 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2021.100395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite the high incidence of male infertility, only 30% of infertile men receive a causative diagnosis. To explore the regulatory mechanisms governing human germ cell function in normal and impaired spermatogenesis (crypto), we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (>30,000 cells). We find major alterations in the crypto spermatogonial compartment with increased numbers of the most undifferentiated spermatogonia (PIWIL4+). We also observe a transcriptional switch within the spermatogonial compartment driven by increased and prolonged expression of the transcription factor EGR4. Intriguingly, the EGR4-regulated chromatin-associated transcriptional repressor UTF1 is downregulated at transcriptional and protein levels. This is associated with changes in spermatogonial chromatin structure and fewer Adark spermatogonia, characterized by tightly compacted chromatin and serving as reserve stem cells. These findings suggest that crypto patients are disadvantaged, as fewer cells safeguard their germline’s genetic integrity. These identified spermatogonial regulators will be highly interesting targets to uncover genetic causes of male infertility. Crypto(zoospermic) men show increased number of PIWIL4+/EGR4+ spermatogonia Crypto undifferentiated spermatogonia over-activate the EGR4 regulatory network The predicted EGR4 target UTF1 is downregulated in crypto spermatogonia Crypto testes show reduced numbers of UTF1+ Adark reserve spermatogonia
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Di Persio
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Tobias Tekath
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Lara Marie Siebert-Kuss
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Jann-Frederik Cremers
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Joachim Wistuba
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Xiaolin Li
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Gerd Meyer Zu Hörste
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Hannes C A Drexler
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Unit, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Margot Julia Wyrwoll
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Dugas
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Sandra Laurentino
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
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Di Persio S, Leitão E, Wöste M, Tekath T, Cremers JF, Dugas M, Li X, Meyer Zu Hörste G, Kliesch S, Laurentino S, Neuhaus N, Horsthemke B. Whole-genome methylation analysis of testicular germ cells from cryptozoospermic men points to recurrent and functionally relevant DNA methylation changes. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:160. [PMID: 34419158 PMCID: PMC8379757 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01144-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have reported an association between male infertility and aberrant sperm DNA methylation patterns, in particular in imprinted genes. In a recent investigation based on whole methylome and deep bisulfite sequencing, we have not found any evidence for such an association, but have demonstrated that somatic DNA contamination and genetic variation confound methylation studies in sperm of severely oligozoospermic men. To find out whether testicular germ cells (TGCs) of such patients might carry aberrant DNA methylation, we compared the TGC methylomes of four men with cryptozoospermia (CZ) and four men with obstructive azoospermia, who had normal spermatogenesis and served as controls (CTR). RESULTS There was no difference in DNA methylation at the whole genome level or at imprinted regions between CZ and CTR samples. However, using stringent filters to identify group-specific methylation differences, we detected 271 differentially methylated regions (DMRs), 238 of which were hypermethylated in CZ (binominal test, p < 2.2 × 10-16). The DMRs were enriched for distal regulatory elements (p = 1.0 × 10-6) and associated with 132 genes, 61 of which are differentially expressed at various stages of spermatogenesis. Almost all of the 67 DMRs associated with the 61 genes (94%) are hypermethylated in CZ (63/67, p = 1.107 × 10-14). As judged by single-cell RNA sequencing, 13 DMR-associated genes, which are mainly expressed during meiosis and spermiogenesis, show a significantly different pattern of expression in CZ patients. In four of these genes, the promoter is hypermethylated in CZ men, which correlates with a lower expression level in these patients. In the other nine genes, eight of which downregulated in CZ, germ cell-specific enhancers may be affected. CONCLUSIONS We found that impaired spermatogenesis is associated with DNA methylation changes in testicular germ cells at functionally relevant regions of the genome. We hypothesize that the described DNA methylation changes may reflect or contribute to premature abortion of spermatogenesis and therefore not appear in the mature, motile sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Di Persio
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Elsa Leitão
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Marius Wöste
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Tobias Tekath
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Jann-Frederik Cremers
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Dugas
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Xiaolin Li
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Gerd Meyer Zu Hörste
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Sandra Laurentino
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany.
| | - Bernhard Horsthemke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
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9
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Schneider F, Dabel J, Sandhowe-Klaverkamp R, Neuhaus N, Schlatt S, Kliesch S, Wistuba J. Serum and intratesticular inhibin B, AMH, and spermatogonial numbers in trans women at gender-confirming surgery: An observational study. Andrology 2021; 9:1781-1789. [PMID: 34085780 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anti-Müllerian hormone and inhibin B are produced by Sertoli cells. Anti-Müllerian hormone secretion indicates an immature Sertoli cell state. Inhibin B serves as a marker of male fertility. Identification of markers reflecting the presence of germ cells is of particular relevance in trans persons undergoing gender-affirming hormone therapy in order to offer individualized fertility preservation methods. OBJECTIVES Serum and intratesticular inhibin B and anti-Müllerian hormone values were assessed and related to clinical features, laboratory values, and germ cell numbers. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-two trans women from three clinics were included. As gender-affirming hormone therapy, 10-12.5 mg of cyproterone acetate plus estrogens were administered. Height, weight, age, medication, and treatment duration were inquired by questionnaires. Serum luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, testosterone, and estradiol were measured by immuno-assays. Serum and intratesticular inhibin B and anti-Müllerian hormone were measured by commercially available ELISAs. Spermatogonia were quantified as spermatogonia per cubic millimeter testicular tissue applying a morphometric analysis of two independent testicular cross-sections per individual after MAGEA4 immunostaining. RESULTS Patients with high inhibin B levels presented with a higher number of spermatogonia (*p < 0.05). Furthermore, mean serum inhibin B was associated with low age (*p < 0.05), low follicle-stimulating hormone (*p < 0.05), and low testosterone (*p < 0.05). Serum anti-Müllerian hormone, however, was not related to spermatogonial numbers. It correlated with high testosterone (*p < 0.05) and high follicle-stimulating hormone (*p < 0.05) only. High intratesticular inhibin B was accompanied by high luteinizing hormone (*p < 0.05), high follicle-stimulating hormone (**p < 0.01), and high testosterone levels (**p < 0.01). Higher the intratesticular anti-Müllerian hormone levels, the longer gender-affirming hormone therapy was administered (*p < 0.05). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Serum inhibin B levels indicate the presence of spermatogonia, whereas anti-Müllerian hormone seems not to be a reliable marker concerning germ cell abundance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Schneider
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany.,Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Jennifer Dabel
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Reinhild Sandhowe-Klaverkamp
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Joachim Wistuba
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
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Stöckl JB, Schmid N, Flenkenthaler F, Drummer C, Behr R, Mayerhofer A, Arnold GJ, Fröhlich T. Age-Related Alterations in the Testicular Proteome of a Non-Human Primate. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061306. [PMID: 34074003 PMCID: PMC8225046 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging of human testis and associated cellular changes is difficult to assess. Therefore, we used a translational, non-human primate model to get insights into underlying cellular and biochemical processes. Using proteomics and immunohistochemistry, we analyzed testicular tissue of young (age 2 to 3) and old (age 10 to 12) common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus). Using a mass spectrometry-based proteomics approach, we identified 63,124 peptides, which could be assigned to 5924 proteins. Among them, we found proteins specific for germ cells and somatic cells, such as Leydig and Sertoli cells. Quantitative analysis showed 31 differentially abundant proteins, of which 29 proteins were more abundant in older animals. An increased abundance of anti-proliferative proteins, among them CDKN2A, indicate reduced cell proliferation in old testes. Additionally, an increased abundance of several small leucine rich repeat proteoglycans and other extracellular matrix proteins was observed, which may be related to impaired cell migration and fibrotic events. Furthermore, an increased abundance of proteins with inhibitory roles in smooth muscle cell contraction like CNN1 indicates functional alterations in testicular peritubular cells and may mirror a reduced capacity of these cells to contract in old testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan B. Stöckl
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, LMU München, 81377 München, Germany; (J.B.S.); (F.F.)
| | - Nina Schmid
- Biomedical Center (BMC), Anatomy III–Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, LMU München, 82152 Martinsried, Germany; (N.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Florian Flenkenthaler
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, LMU München, 81377 München, Germany; (J.B.S.); (F.F.)
| | - Charis Drummer
- Platform Degenerative Diseases, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, 37077 Göttingen, Germany; (C.D.); (R.B.)
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Göttingen, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Behr
- Platform Degenerative Diseases, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, 37077 Göttingen, Germany; (C.D.); (R.B.)
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Göttingen, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Biomedical Center (BMC), Anatomy III–Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, LMU München, 82152 Martinsried, Germany; (N.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Georg J. Arnold
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, LMU München, 81377 München, Germany; (J.B.S.); (F.F.)
- Correspondence: (G.J.A.); (T.F.)
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, LMU München, 81377 München, Germany; (J.B.S.); (F.F.)
- Correspondence: (G.J.A.); (T.F.)
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11
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Omics in Seminal Plasma: An Effective Strategy for Predicting Sperm Retrieval Outcome in Non-obstructive Azoospermia. Mol Diagn Ther 2021; 25:315-325. [PMID: 33860468 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-021-00524-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a severe form of male factor infertility resulting from the impairment of sperm production. Surgical sperm retrieval followed by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is the only alternative for NOA patients to have their own genetic children. Nevertheless, due to an approximately 50% chance of success, harvesting sperm from these patients remains challenging. Thus, discovering noninvasive biomarkers, which are able to reliably predict the probability of sperm acquisition, not only can eliminate the risk of surgery but also can lower the costs of NOA diagnosis and treatment. Seminal plasma is the non-cellular and liquid portion of the ejaculate that consists of the secretions originating from testes and male accessory glands. In past years, a wide range of biomolecules including DNAs, RNAs, proteins, and metabolic intermediates have been identified by omics techniques in human seminal plasma. The current review aimed to briefly describe genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic profiles of human seminal plasma in an attempt to introduce potential candidate noninvasive biomarkers for sperm-retrieval success in men with NOA.
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12
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Struijk RB, Mulder CL, van Daalen SKM, de Winter-Korver CM, Jongejan A, Repping S, van Pelt AMM. ITGA6+ Human Testicular Cell Populations Acquire a Mesenchymal Rather than Germ Cell Transcriptional Signature during Long-Term Culture. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218269. [PMID: 33158248 PMCID: PMC7672582 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autologous spermatogonial stem cell transplantation is an experimental technique aimed at restoring fertility in infertile men. Although effective in animal models, in vitro propagation of human spermatogonia prior to transplantation has proven to be difficult. A major limiting factor is endogenous somatic testicular cell overgrowth during long-term culture. This makes the culture both inefficient and necessitates highly specific cell sorting strategies in order to enrich cultured germ cell fractions prior to transplantation. Here, we employed RNA-Seq to determine cell type composition in sorted integrin alpha-6 (ITGA6+) primary human testicular cells (n = 4 donors) cultured for up to two months, using differential gene expression and cell deconvolution analyses. Our data and analyses reveal that long-term cultured ITGA6+ testicular cells are composed mainly of cells expressing markers of peritubular myoid cells, (progenitor) Leydig cells, fibroblasts and mesenchymal stromal cells and only a limited percentage of spermatogonial cells as compared to their uncultured counterparts. These findings provide valuable insights into the cell type composition of cultured human ITGA6+ testicular cells during in vitro propagation and may serve as a basis for optimizing future cell sorting strategies as well as optimizing the current human testicular cell culture system for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B. Struijk
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
| | - Callista L. Mulder
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
| | - Saskia K. M. van Daalen
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
| | - Cindy M. de Winter-Korver
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
| | - Aldo Jongejan
- Department of Epidemiology & Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Ans M. M. van Pelt
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (R.B.S.); (C.L.M.); (S.K.M.v.D.); (C.M.d.W.-K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-20-56-67837
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13
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Cai Y, Wang J, Zou K. The Progresses of Spermatogonial Stem Cells Sorting Using Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2020; 16:94-102. [PMID: 31792769 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-019-09929-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the research on stem cells has been more and more in-depth, and many achievements have been made in application. However, due to the small number of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and deficiency of efficient markers, it is difficult to obtain very pure SSCs, which results in the research on them being hindered. In fact, many methods have been developed to isolate and purify SSCs, but these methods have their shortcomings. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), as a method to enrich SSCs with the help of specific surface markers, has the characteristics of high efficiency and accuracy in enrichment of SSCs, thus it is widely accepted as an effective method for purification of SSCs. This review summarizes the recent studies on the application of FACS in SSCs, and introduces some commonly used markers of effective SSCs sorting, aiming to further optimize the FACS sorting method for SSCs, so as to promote the research of germline stem cells and provide new ideas for the research of reproductive biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihui Cai
- Germline Stem Cells and Microenvironment Lab, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Germline Stem Cells and Microenvironment Lab, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Kang Zou
- Germline Stem Cells and Microenvironment Lab, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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14
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Deebel NA, Galdon G, Zarandi NP, Stogner-Underwood K, Howards S, Lovato J, Kogan S, Atala A, Lue Y, Sadri-Ardekani H. Age-related presence of spermatogonia in patients with Klinefelter syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:58-72. [PMID: 31822886 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 09/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Klinefelter syndrome (KS) has been defined by sex chromosome aneuploidies (classically 47, XXY) in the male patient. The peripubertal timeframe in KS patients has been associated with the initiation of progressive testicular fibrosis, loss of spermatogonial stem cells (SSC), hypogonadism and impaired fertility. Less than half of KS patients are positive for spermatozoa in the ejaculate or testis via semen analysis or testicular sperm extraction, respectively. However, the chance of finding spermatogonia including a sub-population of SSCs in KS testes has not been well defined. Given the recent demonstration of successful cell culture for mouse and human SSCs, it could be feasible to isolate and propagate SSCs and transplant the cells back to the patient or to differentiate them in vitro to haploid cells. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The main objective of this study was to meta-analyse the currently available data from KS patients to identify the prevalence of KS patients with spermatogonia on testicular biopsy across four age groups (year): fetal/infantile (age ≤ 1), prepubertal (age 1 ≤ x ≤ 10), peripubertal/adolescent (age 10 < x < 18) and adult (age ≥ 18) ages. Additionally, the association of endocrine parameters with presence or absence of spermatogonia was tested to obtain a more powered analysis of whether FSH, LH, testosterone and inhibin B can serve as predictive markers for successful spermatogonia retrieval. SEARCH METHODS A thorough Medline/PubMed search was conducted using the following search terms: 'Klinefelter, germ cells, spermatogenesis and spermatogonia', yielding results from 1 October 1965 to 3 February 2019. Relevant articles were added from the bibliographies of selected articles. Exclusion criteria included non-English language, abstracts only, non-human data and review papers. OUTCOMES A total of 751 papers were identified with independent review returning 36 papers with relevant information for meta-analysis on 386 patients. For the most part, articles were case reports, case-controlled series and cohort studies (level IV-VI evidence). Spermatogonial cells were present in all of the fetal/infantile and 83% of the prepubertal patients' testes, and in 42.7% and 48.5% of the peripubertal and adult groups, respectively were positive for spermatogonia. Additionally, 26 of the 56 (46.4%) peripubertal/adolescent and 37 of the 152 (24.3%) adult patients negative for spermatozoa were positive for spermatogonia (P < 0.05). In peripubertal/adolescent patients, the mean ± SEM level for FSH was 12.88 ± 3.13 IU/L for spermatogonia positive patients and 30.42 ± 4.05 IU/L for spermatogonia negative patients (P = 0.001); the mean ± SEM level LH levels were 4.36 ± 1.31 and 11.43 ± 1.68 IU/L for spermatogonia positive and negative, respectively (P < 0.01); the mean ± SEM level for testosterone levels were 5.04 ± 1.37 and 9.05 ± 0.94 nmol/L (equal to 145 ± 40 and 261 ± 27 and ng/dl) for the spermatogonia positive and negative groups, respectively (P < 0.05), while the difference in means for inhibin B was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). A similar analysis in the adult group showed the FSH levels in spermatogonia positive and negative patients to be 25.77 ± 2.78 and 36.12 ± 2.90 IU/L, respectively (mean ± SEM level, P < 0.05). All other hormone measurements were not statistically significantly different between groups. WIDER IMPLICATIONS While azoospermia is a common finding in the KS patient population, many patients are positive for spermatogonia. Recent advances in SSC in vitro propagation, transplantation and differentiation open new avenues for these patients for fertility preservation. This would offer a new subset of KS patients a chance of biological paternity. Data surrounding the hormonal profiles of KS patients and their relation to fertility should be interpreted with caution as a paucity of adequately powered data exists. Future work is needed to clarify the utility of FSH, LH, testosterone and inhibin B as biomarkers for successful retrieval of spermatogonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Deebel
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.,Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Guillermo Galdon
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Nima Pourhabibi Zarandi
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | | | - Stuart Howards
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - James Lovato
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Stanley Kogan
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.,Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.,Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Yanhe Lue
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Hooman Sadri-Ardekani
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.,Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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15
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Goossens E, Jahnukainen K, Mitchell RT, van Pelt A, Pennings G, Rives N, Poels J, Wyns C, Lane S, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Rives A, Valli-Pulaski H, Steimer S, Kliesch S, Braye A, Andres MM, Medrano J, Ramos L, Kristensen SG, Andersen CY, Bjarnason R, Orwig KE, Neuhaus N, Stukenborg JB. Fertility preservation in boys: recent developments and new insights †. Hum Reprod Open 2020; 2020:hoaa016. [PMID: 32529047 PMCID: PMC7275639 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoaa016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is an important side effect of treatments used for cancer and other non-malignant conditions in males. This may be due to the loss of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and/or altered functionality of testicular somatic cells (e.g. Sertoli cells, Leydig cells). Whereas sperm cryopreservation is the first-line procedure to preserve fertility in post-pubertal males, this option does not exist for prepubertal boys. For patients unable to produce sperm and at high risk of losing their fertility, testicular tissue freezing is now proposed as an alternative experimental option to safeguard their fertility. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE With this review, we aim to provide an update on clinical practices and experimental methods, as well as to describe patient management inclusion strategies used to preserve and restore the fertility of prepubertal boys at high risk of fertility loss. SEARCH METHODS Based on the expertise of the participating centres and a literature search of the progress in clinical practices, patient management strategies and experimental methods used to preserve and restore the fertility of prepubertal boys at high risk of fertility loss were identified. In addition, a survey was conducted amongst European and North American centres/networks that have published papers on their testicular tissue banking activity. OUTCOMES Since the first publication on murine SSC transplantation in 1994, remarkable progress has been made towards clinical application: cryopreservation protocols for testicular tissue have been developed in animal models and are now offered to patients in clinics as a still experimental procedure. Transplantation methods have been adapted for human testis, and the efficiency and safety of the technique are being evaluated in mouse and primate models. However, important practical, medical and ethical issues must be resolved before fertility restoration can be applied in the clinic.Since the previous survey conducted in 2012, the implementation of testicular tissue cryopreservation as a means to preserve the fertility of prepubertal boys has increased. Data have been collected from 24 co-ordinating centres worldwide, which are actively offering testis tissue cryobanking to safeguard the future fertility of boys. More than 1033 young patients (age range 3 months to 18 years) have already undergone testicular tissue retrieval and storage for fertility preservation. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The review does not include the data of all reproductive centres worldwide. Other centres might be offering testicular tissue cryopreservation. Therefore, the numbers might be not representative for the entire field in reproductive medicine and biology worldwide. The key ethical issue regarding fertility preservation in prepubertal boys remains the experimental nature of the intervention. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The revised procedures can be implemented by the multi-disciplinary teams offering and/or developing treatment strategies to preserve the fertility of prepubertal boys who have a high risk of fertility loss. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The work was funded by ESHRE. None of the authors has a conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Goossens
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - K Jahnukainen
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden.,Division of Haematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, New Children's Hospital, Pediatric Research Center, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - R T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh; and the Edinburgh Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Amm van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G Pennings
- Bioethics Institute Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - N Rives
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, Biology of Reproduction-CECOS Laboratory, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - J Poels
- Department of Gynecology and Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Wyns
- Department of Gynecology and Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - S Lane
- Department of Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Children's Hospital Oxford, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - K A Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Oncology Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden.,Section of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Rives
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, Biology of Reproduction-CECOS Laboratory, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - H Valli-Pulaski
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - S Steimer
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - S Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - A Braye
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - M M Andres
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - J Medrano
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - L Ramos
- Departement of Obstetrics and Gynacology, Division Reproductive Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - S G Kristensen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C Y Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - R Bjarnason
- Children's Medical Center, Landspítali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland and Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - K E Orwig
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - N Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - J B Stukenborg
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden
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16
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Sohni A, Tan K, Song HW, Burow D, de Rooij DG, Laurent L, Hsieh TC, Rabah R, Hammoud SS, Vicini E, Wilkinson MF. The Neonatal and Adult Human Testis Defined at the Single-Cell Level. Cell Rep 2020; 26:1501-1517.e4. [PMID: 30726734 PMCID: PMC6402825 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.01.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis has been intensely studied in rodents but remains poorly understood in humans. Here, we used single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze human testes. Clustering analysis of neonatal testes reveals several cell subsets, including cell populations with characteristics of primordial germ cells (PGCs) and spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). In adult testes, we identify four undifferentiated spermatogonia (SPG) clusters, each of which expresses specific marker genes. We identify protein markers for the most primitive SPG state, allowing us to purify this likely SSC-enriched cell subset. We map the timeline of male germ cell development from PGCs through fetal germ cells to differentiating adult SPG stages. We also define somatic cell subsets in both neonatal and adult testes and trace their developmental trajectories. Our data provide a blueprint of the developing human male germline and supporting somatic cells. The PGC-like and SSC markers are candidates to be used for SSC therapy to treat infertility. Sohni et al. use scRNA-seq analysis to define cell subsets in the human testis. Highlights include the identification of primordial germ cell- and spermatogonial stem cell-like cell subsets in neonatal testes, numerous undifferentiated spermatogonial cell states in adult testes, and somatic cell subsets in both neonatal and adult testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Sohni
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Kun Tan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Hye-Won Song
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Dana Burow
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Dirk G de Rooij
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Louise Laurent
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Tung-Chin Hsieh
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92103, USA
| | - Raja Rabah
- Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology, Michigan Medicine, CS Mott and VonVoigtlander Women's Hospitals, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-4272, USA
| | - Saher Sue Hammoud
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Elena Vicini
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Miles F Wilkinson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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17
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Schubert M, Kaldewey S, Pérez Lanuza L, Krenz H, Dugas M, Berres S, Kliesch S, Wistuba J, Gromoll J. Does the FSHB c.-211G>T polymorphism impact Sertoli cell number and the spermatogenic potential in infertile patients? Andrology 2020; 8:1030-1037. [PMID: 32096339 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A genetic variant within the FSHB gene can deviate FSH action on spermatogenesis. The c.-211G>T FSHB single nucleotide polymorphism impacts FSHB transcription and biosynthesis due to interference with the LHX3 transcription factor binding. This SNP was previously shown to be strongly associated with lowered testicular volume, reduced sperm counts, and decreased FSH levels in patients carrying one or two T-alleles. OBJECTIVE To determine the impact of the SNP FSHB c.-211G>T on Sertoli cell (SC) number, Sertoli cell workload (SCWL) and thereby spermatogenic potential. MATERIAL AND METHODS Testicular biopsies of 31 azoospermic, homozygous T patients (26 non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), and five obstructive azoospermia (OA)) were matched to patients with GG genotype. Marker proteins for SC (SOX9), spermatogonia (MAGE A4), and round spermatids (CREM) were used for semi-automatical quantification by immunofluorescence. SCWL (number of germ cells served by one SC) was determined and an unbiased clustering on the patient groups performed. RESULTS Quantification of SC number in NOA patients did not yield significant differences when stratified by FSHB genotype. SC numbers are also not significantly different between FSHB genotypes for the OA patient group and between NOA and OA groups. SCWL in the NOA patient cohort is significantly reduced when compared to the OA control patients; however, in neither group an effect of the genotype could be observed. The cluster analysis of the whole study cohort yielded two groups only, namely NOA and OA, and no clustering according to the FSHB genotype. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The FSHB c.-211G>T polymorphism does not affect SC numbers or SCWL, thereby in principle maintaining the spermatogenic potential. The previously observed clinical phenotype for the FSHB genotype might therefore be caused by a hypo-stimulated spermatogenesis and not due to a decreased SC number.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Schubert
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sophie Kaldewey
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Lina Pérez Lanuza
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Henrike Krenz
- Institute of Medical Informatics-Informatics for Personalized Medicine, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Dugas
- Institute of Medical Informatics-Informatics for Personalized Medicine, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sven Berres
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Joachim Wistuba
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jörg Gromoll
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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Dong L, Gul M, Hildorf S, Pors SE, Kristensen SG, Hoffmann ER, Cortes D, Thorup J, Andersen CY. Xeno-Free Propagation of Spermatogonial Stem Cells from Infant Boys. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20215390. [PMID: 31671863 PMCID: PMC6862004 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) transplantation therapy is a promising strategy to renew spermatogenesis for prepubertal boys whose fertility is compromised. However, propagation of SSCs is required due to a limited number of SSCs in cryopreserved testicular tissue. This propagation must be done under xeno-free conditions for clinical application. SSCs were propagated from infant testicular tissue (7 mg and 10 mg) from two boys under xeno-free conditions using human platelet lysate and nutrient source. We verified SSC-like cell clusters (SSCLCs) by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immune-reaction assay using the SSC markers undifferentiated embryonic cell transcription factor 1 (UTF1), ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase isozyme L1 (UCHL1), GDNF receptor alpha-1 (GFRα-1) Fα and promyelocytic leukaemia zinc finger protein (PLZF). The functionality of the propagated SSCs was investigated by pre-labelling using green fluorescent Cell Linker PKH67 and xeno-transplantation of the SSCLCs into busulfan-treated, therefore sterile, immunodeficient mice. SSC-like cell clusters (SSCLCs) appeared after 2 weeks in primary passage. The SSCLCs were SSC-like as the UTF1, UCHL1, GFRα1 and PLZF were all positive. After 2.5 months’ culture period, a total of 13 million cells from one sample were harvested for xenotransplantation. Labelled human propagated SSCs were identified and verified in mouse seminiferous tubules at 3–6 weeks, confirming that the transplanted cells contain SSCLCs. The present xeno-free clinical culture protocol allows propagation of SSCs from infant boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Dong
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Murat Gul
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Department of Urology, Aksaray University School of Medicine, Aksaray 68100, Turkey.
| | - Simone Hildorf
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Susanne Elisabeth Pors
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Stine Gry Kristensen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Eva R Hoffmann
- Center for Chromosome Stability, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Dina Cortes
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Department of Pediatrics, Hvidovre, Copenhagen University Hospital, 2650 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Jorgen Thorup
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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19
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Dong L, Kristensen SG, Hildorf S, Gul M, Clasen-Linde E, Fedder J, Hoffmann ER, Cortes D, Thorup J, Andersen CY. Propagation of Spermatogonial Stem Cell-Like Cells From Infant Boys. Front Physiol 2019; 10:1155. [PMID: 31607938 PMCID: PMC6761273 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gonadotoxic treatment of malignant diseases as well as some non-malignant conditions such as cryptorchidism in young boys may result in infertility and failure to father children later in life. As a fertility preserving strategy, several centers collect testicular biopsies to cryopreserve spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) world-wide. One of the most promising therapeutic strategies is to transplant SSCs back into the seminiferous tubules to initiate endogenous spermatogenesis. However, to obtain sufficient numbers of SSC to warrant transplantation, in vitro propagation of cells is needed together with proper validation of their stem cell identity. Materials and Methods A minute amount of testicular biopsies (between 5 mg and 10 mg) were processed by mechanical and enzymatic digestion. SSCs were enriched by differential plating method in StemPro-34 medium supplemented with several growth factors. SSC-like cell clusters (SSCLCs) were passaged five times. SSCLCs were identified by immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining, using protein expression patterns in testis biopsies as reference. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of SSC markers LIN-28 homolog A (LIN28A), G antigen 1 (GAGE1), promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger protein (PLZF), integrin alpha 6 (ITGA6), ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) and integrin beta 1 (ITGB1) were also used to validate the SSC-like cell identity. Results Proliferation of SSCLCs was achieved. The presence of SSCs in SSCLCs was confirmed by positive immunostaining of LIN28, UCHL1 and quantitative polymerase chain reaction for LIN28A, UCHL1, PLZF, ITGA6, and ITGB1, respectively. Conclusion This study has demonstrated that SSCs from infant boys possess the capacity for in vitro proliferation and advance a fertility preservation strategy for pre-pubertal boys who may otherwise lose their fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Dong
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stine Gry Kristensen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Simone Hildorf
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Murat Gul
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Urology, Aksaray University School of Medicine, Aksaray, Turkey
| | - Erik Clasen-Linde
- Department of Pathology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Fedder
- Centre of Andrology and Fertility Clinic, Department D, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark.,Research Unit of Human Reproduction, Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Eva R Hoffmann
- Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dina Cortes
- Department of Pediatrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jorgen Thorup
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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20
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Laurentino S, Heckmann L, Di Persio S, Li X, Meyer Zu Hörste G, Wistuba J, Cremers JF, Gromoll J, Kliesch S, Schlatt S, Neuhaus N. High-resolution analysis of germ cells from men with sex chromosomal aneuploidies reveals normal transcriptome but impaired imprinting. Clin Epigenetics 2019; 11:127. [PMID: 31462300 PMCID: PMC6714305 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-019-0720-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The most common sex chromosomal aneuploidy in males is Klinefelter syndrome, which is characterized by at least one supernumerary X chromosome. While these men have long been considered infertile, focal spermatogenesis can be observed in some patients, and sperm can be surgically retrieved and used for artificial reproductive techniques. Although these gametes can be used for fertility treatments, little is known about the molecular biology of the germline in Klinefelter men. Specifically, it is unclear if germ cells in Klinefelter syndrome correctly establish the androgenetic DNA methylation profile and transcriptome. This is due to the low number of germ cells in the Klinefelter testes available for analysis. Results Here, we overcame these difficulties and successfully investigated the epigenetic and transcriptional profiles of germ cells in Klinefelter patients employing deep bisulfite sequencing and single-cell RNA sequencing. On the transcriptional level, the germ cells from Klinefelter men clustered together with the differentiation stages of normal spermatogenesis. Klinefelter germ cells showed a normal DNA methylation profile of selected germ cell-specific markers compared with spermatogonia and sperm from men with normal spermatogenesis. However, germ cells from Klinefelter patients showed variations in the DNA methylation of imprinted regions. Conclusions These data indicate that Klinefelter germ cells have a normal transcriptome but might present aberrant imprinting, showing impairment in germ cell development that goes beyond mere germ cell loss. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13148-019-0720-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Laurentino
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Laura Heckmann
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Sara Di Persio
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Xiaolin Li
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Gerd Meyer Zu Hörste
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Joachim Wistuba
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Jann-Frederik Cremers
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jörg Gromoll
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149, Münster, Germany.
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21
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Kubota H, Brinster RL. Spermatogonial stem cells. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:52-74. [PMID: 29617903 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the most primitive spermatogonia in the testis and have an essential role to maintain highly productive spermatogenesis by self-renewal and continuous generation of daughter spermatogonia that differentiate into spermatozoa, transmitting genetic information to the next generation. Since the 1950s, many experimental methods, including histology, immunostaining, whole-mount analyses, and pulse-chase labeling, had been used in attempts to identify SSCs, but without success. In 1994, a spermatogonial transplantation method was reported that established a quantitative functional assay to identify SSCs by evaluating their ability to both self-renew and differentiate to spermatozoa. The system was originally developed using mice and subsequently extended to nonrodents, including domestic animals and humans. Availability of the functional assay for SSCs has made it possible to develop culture systems for their ex vivo expansion, which dramatically advanced germ cell biology and allowed medical and agricultural applications. In coming years, SSCs will be increasingly used to understand their regulation, as well as in germline modification, including gene correction, enhancement of male fertility, and conversion of somatic cells to biologically competent male germline cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kubota
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Biology, Department of Animal Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, Towada, Aomori, Japan
| | - Ralph L Brinster
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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22
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Pohl E, Höffken V, Schlatt S, Kliesch S, Gromoll J, Wistuba J. Ageing in men with normal spermatogenesis alters spermatogonial dynamics and nuclear morphology in Sertoli cells. Andrology 2019; 7:827-839. [PMID: 31250567 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ageing in men is believed to be associated with fertility decline and elevated risk of congenital disorders for the offspring. The previous studies also reported reduced germ and Sertoli cell numbers in older men. However, it is not clear whether ageing in men with normal spermatogenesis affects the testis and germ cell population dynamics in a way sufficient for transmitting adverse age effects to the offspring. OBJECTIVES We examined men with normal spermatogenesis at different ages concerning effects on persisting testicular cell types, that is the germ line and Sertoli cells, as these cell populations are prone to be exposed to age effects. MATERIAL AND METHODS Ageing was assessed in testicular biopsies of 32 patients assigned to three age groups: (i) 28.8 ± 2.7 years; (ii) 48.1 ± 1 years; and (iii) 70.9 ± 6.2 years, n = 8 each, with normal spermatogenesis according to the Bergmann-Kliesch score, and in a group of meiotic arrest patients (29.9 ± 3.8 years, n = 8) to decipher potential links between different germ cell types. Besides morphometry of seminiferous tubules and Sertoli cell nuclei, we investigated spermatogenic output/efficiency, and dynamics of spermatogonial populations via immunohistochemistry for MAGE A4, PCNA, CREM and quantified A-pale/A-dark spermatogonia. RESULTS We found a constant spermatogenic output (CREM-positive round spermatids) in all age groups studied. In men beyond their mid-40s (group 2), we detected increased nuclear and nucleolar size in Sertoli cells, indirectly indicating an elevated protein turnover. From the 7th decade (group 3) of life onwards, testes showed increased proliferation of undifferentiated spermatogonia, decreased spermatogenic efficiency and elevated numbers of proliferating A-dark spermatogonia. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Maintaining normal sperm output seems to be an intrinsic determinant of spermatogenesis. Ageing appears to affect this output and might provoke compensatory proliferation increase in A spermatogonia which, in turn, might hamper germ cell integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pohl
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - V Höffken
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - S Schlatt
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - S Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - J Gromoll
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - J Wistuba
- Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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23
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Sharma S, Schlatt S, Van Pelt A, Neuhaus N. Characterization and population dynamics of germ cells in adult macaque testicular cultures. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0218194. [PMID: 31226129 PMCID: PMC6588212 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0218194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND From a biological and clinical perspective, it is imperative to establish primate spermatogonial cultures. Due to limited availability of human testicular tissues, the macaque (Macaca fascicularis) was employed as non-human primate model. The aim of this study was to characterize the expression of somatic as well as germ cell markers in testicular tissues and to establish macaque testicular primary cell cultures. MATERIALS AND METHODS Characterization of macaque testicular cell population was performed by immunohistochemical analyses for somatic cell markers (SOX9, VIM, SMA) as well as for germ cell markers (UTF1, MAGEA4, VASA). Testicular cells from adult macaque testes (n = 4) were isolated and cultured for 21 days using three stem cell culture media (SSC, PS and SM). An extended marker gene panel (SOX9, VIM, ACTA2; UTF1, FGFR3, MAGEA4, BOLL, DDX4) was then employed to assess the changes in gene expression levels and throughout the in vitro culture period. Dynamics of the spermatogonial population was further investigated by quantitative analysis of immunofluorescence-labeled MAGEA4-positive cells (n = 3). RESULTS RNA expression analyses of cell cultures revealed that parallel to decreasing SOX9-expressing Sertoli cells, maintenance of VIM and ACTA2-expressing somatic cells was observed. Expression levels of germ cell marker genes UTF1, FGFR3 and MAGEA4 were maintained until day 14 in SSC and SM media. Findings from MAGEA4 immunofluorescence staining corroborate mRNA expression profiling and substantiate the overall maintenance of MAGEA4-positive pre- and early meiotic germ cells until day 14. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate maintenance of macaque germ cell subpopulations in vitro. This study provides novel perspective and proof that macaques could be used as a research model for establishing in vitro germ cell-somatic cell cultures, to identify ideal culture conditions for long-term maintenance of primate germ cell subpopulation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Münster, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Münster, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
| | - Ans Van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Münster, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
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Sharma S, Wistuba J, Pock T, Schlatt S, Neuhaus N. Spermatogonial stem cells: updates from specification to clinical relevance. Hum Reprod Update 2019; 25:275-297. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, Münster, Germany
| | - Joachim Wistuba
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, Münster, Germany
| | - Tim Pock
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, Building D11, Münster, Germany
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Neuhaus N, Yoon J, Terwort N, Kliesch S, Seggewiss J, Huge A, Voss R, Schlatt S, Grindberg RV, Schöler HR. Single-cell gene expression analysis reveals diversity among human spermatogonia. Mol Hum Reprod 2018; 23:79-90. [PMID: 28093458 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the molecular profile of human spermatogonia homogeneous or heterogeneous when analysed at the single-cell level? SUMMARY ANSWER Heterogeneous expression profiles may be a key characteristic of human spermatogonia, supporting the existence of a heterogeneous stem cell population. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Despite the fact that many studies have sought to identify specific markers for human spermatogonia, the molecular fingerprint of these cells remains hitherto unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Testicular tissues from patients with spermatogonial arrest (arrest, n = 1) and with qualitatively normal spermatogenesis (normal, n = 7) were selected from a pool of 179 consecutively obtained biopsies. Gene expression analyses of cell populations and single-cells (n = 105) were performed. Two OCT4-positive individual cells were selected for global transcriptional capture using shallow RNA-seq. Finally, expression of four candidate markers was assessed by immunohistochemistry. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Histological analysis and blood hormone measurements for LH, FSH and testosterone were performed prior to testicular sample selection. Following enzymatic digestion of testicular tissues, differential plating and subsequent micromanipulation of individual cells was employed to enrich and isolate human spermatogonia, respectively. Endpoint analyses were qPCR analysis of cell populations and individual cells, shallow RNA-seq and immunohistochemical analyses. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Unexpectedly, single-cell expression data from the arrest patient (20 cells) showed heterogeneous expression profiles. Also, from patients with normal spermatogenesis, heterogeneous expression patterns of undifferentiated (OCT4, UTF1 and MAGE A4) and differentiated marker genes (BOLL and PRM2) were obtained within each spermatogonia cluster (13 clusters with 85 cells). Shallow RNA-seq analysis of individual human spermatogonia was validated, and a spermatogonia-specific heterogeneous protein expression of selected candidate markers (DDX5, TSPY1, EEF1A1 and NGN3) was demonstrated. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The heterogeneity of human spermatogonia at the RNA and protein levels is a snapshot. To further assess the functional meaning of this heterogeneity and the dynamics of stem cell populations, approaches need to be developed to facilitate the repeated analysis of individual cells. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our data suggest that heterogeneous expression profiles may be a key characteristic of human spermatogonia, supporting the model of a heterogeneous stem cell population. Future studies will assess the dynamics of spermatogonial populations in fertile and infertile patients. LARGE SCALE DATA RNA-seq data is published in the GEO database: GSE91063. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the Max Planck Society and the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft DFG-Research Unit FOR 1041 Germ Cell Potential (grant numbers SCHO 340/7-1, SCHL394/11-2). The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - J Yoon
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - N Terwort
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - S Kliesch
- Department of Clinical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - J Seggewiss
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Münster, Vesaliusweg 12-14, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - A Huge
- Core Facility Genomik, Medical Faculty of Münster, Domagkstrasse 3, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - R Voss
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research in the Faculty of Medicine, Domagkstrasse 3, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - S Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - R V Grindberg
- University Hospital Zurich, Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, 8091 Zurich , Switzerland
| | - H R Schöler
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, 48149 Münster , Germany
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Gat I, Maghen L, Filice M, Kenigsberg S, Wyse B, Zohni K, Saraz P, Fisher AG, Librach C. Initial germ cell to somatic cell ratio impacts the efficiency of SSC expansion in vitro. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 64:39-50. [PMID: 29193985 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2017.1406013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial Stem Cell (SSC) expansion in vitro remains a major challenge in efforts to preserve fertility among pubertal cancer survivor boys. The current study focused on innovative approaches to optimize SSC expansion. Six- to eight-week-old CD-1 murine testicular samples were harvested by mechanical and enzymatic digestion. Cell suspensions were incubated for differential plating (DP). After DP, we established two experiments comparing single vs. repetitive DP (S-DP and R-DP, respectively) until passage 2 (P2) completion. Each experiment included a set of cultures consisting of 5 floating-to-attached cell ratios (5, 10, 15, 20, and 25) and control cultures containing floating cells only. We found similar cell and colony count drops during P0 in both S- and R-DP. During P2, counts increased in S-DP in middle ratios (10, 15, and especially 20) relative to low and high ratios (5 and 25, respectively). Counts dropped extensively in R-DP after passage 2. The superiority of intermediate ratios was demonstrated by enrichment of GFRα1 by qPCR. The optimal ratio of 20 in S-DP contained significantly increased proportions of GFRα1-positive cells (25.8±5.8%) as measured by flow cytometry compared to after DP (1.9±0.7%, p<0.0001), as well as positive immunostaining for GFRα1 and UTF1, with rare Sox9-positive cells. This is the first report of the impact of initial floating-to-attached cell ratios on SSC proliferation in vitro. ABBREVIATIONS SSC: spermatogonial stem cells; DP: differential plating; NOA: non-obstructive azoospermia; MACS: magnetic-activated cells sorting; FACS: fluorescence-activated cells sorting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itai Gat
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
- b Pinchas Borenstein Talpiot Medical Leadership Program , Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer , Ramat Gan , Israel
- c Sackler Medical School, University of Tel Aviv , Israel
| | - Leila Maghen
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | | | | | - Brandon Wyse
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | - Khaled Zohni
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | - Peter Saraz
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | | | - Clifford Librach
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
- d Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology , University of Toronto , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
- e Department of Gynecology , Women's College Hospital , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
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Mulder CL, Catsburg LAE, Zheng Y, de Winter-Korver CM, van Daalen SKM, van Wely M, Pals S, Repping S, van Pelt AMM. Long-term health in recipients of transplanted in vitro propagated spermatogonial stem cells. Hum Reprod 2018; 33:81-90. [PMID: 29165614 PMCID: PMC5850721 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is testicular transplantation of in vitro propagated spermatogonial stem cells associated with increased cancer incidence and decreased survival rates in recipient mice? SUMMARY ANSWER Cancer incidence was not increased and long-term survival rate was not altered after transplantation of in vitro propagated murine spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in busulfan-treated recipients as compared to non-transplanted busulfan-treated controls. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Spermatogonial stem cell autotransplantation (SSCT) is a promising experimental reproductive technique currently under development to restore fertility in male childhood cancer survivors. Most preclinical studies have focused on the proof-of-principle of the functionality and efficiency of this technique. The long-term health of recipients of SSCT has not been studied systematically. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study was designed as a murine equivalent of a clinical prospective study design. Long-term follow-up was performed for mice who received a busulfan treatment followed by either an intratesticular transplantation of in vitro propagated enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) positive SSCs (cases, n = 34) or no transplantation (control, n = 37). Using a power calculation, we estimated that 36 animals per group would be sufficient to provide an 80% power and with a 5% level of significance to demonstrate a 25% increase in cancer incidence in the transplanted group. The survival rate and cancer incidence was investigated until the age of 18 months. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Neonatal male B6D2F1 actin-eGFP transgenic mouse testis were used to initiate eGFP positive germline stem (GS) cell culture, which harbor SSCs. Six-week old male C57BL/6 J mice received a single dose busulfan treatment to deplete the testis from endogenous spermatogenesis. Half of these mice received a testicular transplantation of cultured eGFP positive GS cells, while the remainder of mice served as a control group. Mice were followed up until the age of 18 months (497-517 days post-busulfan) or sacrificed earlier due to severe discomfort or illness. Survival data were collected. To evaluate cancer incidence a necropsy was performed and tissues were collected. eGFP signal in transplanted testis and in benign and malignant lesions was assessed by standard PCR. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We found 9% (95% CI: 2-25%) malignancies in the transplanted busulfan-treated animals compared to 26% (95% CI: 14-45%) in the busulfan-treated control group, indicating no statistically significant difference in incidence of malignant lesions in transplanted and control mice (OR: 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1-1.1). Furthermore, none of the malignancies that arose in the transplanted animals contained eGFP signal, suggesting that they are not derived from the in vitro propagated transplanted SSCs. Mean survival time after busulfan treatment was found to be equal, with a mean survival time for transplanted animals of 478 days and 437 days for control animals (P = 0.076). LARGE SCALE DATA NA. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although we attempted to mimic the future clinical application of SSCT in humans as close as possible, the mouse model that we used might not reflect all aspects of the future clinical setting. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The absence of an increase in cancer incidence and a decrease in survival of mice that received a testicular transplantation of in vitro propagated SSCs is reassuring in light of the future clinical application of SSCT in humans. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by KiKa (Kika86) and ZonMw (TAS 116003002). The authors report no financial or other conflict of interest relevant to the subject of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Callista L Mulder
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lisa A E Catsburg
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yi Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cindy M de Winter-Korver
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia K M van Daalen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Madelon van Wely
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Steven Pals
- Department of Pathology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Mincheva M, Sandhowe-Klaverkamp R, Wistuba J, Redmann K, Stukenborg JB, Kliesch S, Schlatt S. Reassembly of adult human testicular cells: can testis cord-like structures be created in vitro? Mol Hum Reprod 2017; 24:55-63. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M Mincheva
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - R Sandhowe-Klaverkamp
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - J Wistuba
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - K Redmann
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - J -B Stukenborg
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, NORDFERTIL research lab Stockholm, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, SE-17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - S Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - S Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
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Gat I, Maghen L, Filice M, Wyse B, Zohni K, Jarvi K, Lo KC, Gauthier Fisher A, Librach C. Optimal culture conditions are critical for efficient expansion of human testicular somatic and germ cells in vitro. Fertil Steril 2017; 107:595-605.e7. [PMID: 28259258 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To optimize culture conditions for human testicular somatic cells (TSCs) and spermatogonial stem cells. DESIGN Basic science study. SETTING Urology clinic and stem cell research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Eight human testicular samples. INTERVENTIONS(S) Testicular tissues were processed by mechanical and enzymatic digestion. Cell suspensions were subjected to differential plating (DP) after which floating cells (representing germ cells) were removed and attached cells (representing TSCs) were cultured for 2 passages (P0-P1) in StemPro-34- or DMEM-F12-based medium. Germ cell cultures were established in both media for 12 days. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) TSC cultures: proliferation doubling time (PDT), fluorescence-activated cell sorting for CD90, next-generation sequencing for 89 RNA transcripts, immunocytochemistry for TSC and germ cell markers, and conditioned media analysis; germ cell cultures: number of aggregates. RESULT(S) TSCs had significantly prolonged PDT in DMEM-F12 versus StemPro-34 (319.6 ± 275.8 h and 110.5 ± 68.3 h, respectively). The proportion of CD90-positive cells increased after P1 in StemPro-34 and DMEM-F12 (90.1 ± 10.8% and 76.5 ± 17.4%, respectively) versus after DP (66.3 ± 7%). Samples from both media after P1 clustered closely in the principle components analysis map whereas those after DP did not. After P1 in either medium, CD90-positive cells expressed TSC markers only, and fibroblast growth factor 2 and bone morphogenetic protein 4 were detected in conditioned medium. A higher number of germ cell aggregates formed in DMEM-F12 (59 ± 39 vs. 28 ± 17, respectively). CONCLUSION(S) Use of DMEM-F12 reduces TSC proliferation while preserving their unique characteristics, leading to improved germ cell aggregates formation compared with StemPro-34, the standard basal medium used in the majority of previous reports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itai Gat
- Create Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Pinchas Borenstein Talpiot Medical Leadership Program, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel; Sackler school of medicine, Tel Aviv university, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Leila Maghen
- Create Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Brandon Wyse
- Create Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Khaled Zohni
- Create Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Reproductive Health and Family Planning, National Research Center, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Keith Jarvi
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kirk C Lo
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Clifford Librach
- Create Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Fertility protection is essential for men undergoing potentially gonadotoxic treatment. It is usually offered to adolescents and men in reproductive age by semen cryopreservation. In case of azoospermia, testicular sperm cryopreservation is an additional option. In prepubertal boys no sperm cryopreservation is possible. A purely experimental option is cryopreservation of spermatogonial stem cells in immature testis tissue. METHOD Transplantation of either immature testis tissue or testicular stem cells or spermatogonia generated in vitro from stem cells are possible options for fertility preservation in boys. OBJECTIVES In this article, the rationale for cryopreservation of gonadal stem cells and the experimental methods for refertilization are summarized. The current research, national and international clinical and research activities and possible perspectives of further development of fertility preservation are explained.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kliesch
- Abteilung für Klinische Andrologie, Centrum für Reproduktionsmedizin und Andrologie, WHO Kooperationszentrum zur Erforschung der männlichen Reproduktion, EAA Ausbildungszentrum, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Geb. D11, 48149, Münster, Deutschland.
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Abdallah W, Hashad D, Abdelmaksoud R, Hashad MM. Does detection of DDX4 mRNA in cell-free seminal plasma represents a reliable noninvasive germ cell marker in patients with nonobstructive azoospermia? Andrologia 2016; 49. [PMID: 28000927 DOI: 10.1111/and.12739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the potential application of DDX4 gene expression in cell-free seminal mRNA as a noninvasive biomarker for the identification of the presence of germ cells in men with nonobstructive azoospermia and to correlate this factor with testicular biopsy. Male reproductive organ-specific genes were chosen: DDX4, which is a germ cell-specific gene and transglutaminase 4, which is a prostate-specific gene that was used as a control gene. Thirty-nine azoospermic males and twenty-eight normospermic fertile males (serving as a control group) participated in the study. Histopathological examination of testicular biopsies categorised azoospermic males into 20.5% with maturation arrest, 17.9% with incomplete Sertoli cell-only syndrome and 61.5% with complete Sertoli cell-only syndrome. Using real-time polymerase chain reaction, positivity for DDX4 gene was detected in 17 of 39 males with NOA which was due to maturation arrest in 35.3% (n = 6/17) of cases, due to incomplete Sertoli cell only in 23.5% (n = 4/17) and due to complete Sertoli cell only in 41.2% (n = 7/17). The study recommends joint utilisation of molecular transcripts as noninvasive biomarkers and histopathological examination of testicular biopsies in management of cases with azoospermia of the nonobstructive type.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Abdallah
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - D Hashad
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Pathology, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - R Abdelmaksoud
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - M M Hashad
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Langenstroth-Röwer D, Gromoll J, Wistuba J, Tröndle I, Laurentino S, Schlatt S, Neuhaus N. De novo methylation in male germ cells of the common marmoset monkey occurs during postnatal development and is maintained in vitro. Epigenetics 2016; 12:527-539. [PMID: 27786608 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2016.1248007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The timing of de novo DNA methylation in male germ cells during human testicular development is yet unsolved. Apart from that, the stability of established imprinting patterns in vitro is controversially discussed. This study aimed at determining the timing of DNA de novo methylation and at assessing the stability of the methylation status in vitro. We employed the marmoset monkey (Callithrix jacchus) as it is considered the best non-human primate model for human testicular development. We selected neonatal, pre-pubertal, pubertal, and adult animals (n = 3, each) and assessed germ cell global DNA methylation levels by 5-methyl cytosine staining, and Alu elements and gene-specific methylation (H19, LIT1, SNRPN, MEST, OCT4, MAGE-A4, and DDX-4) by pyrosequencing. De novo methylation is progressively established during postnatal primate development and continues until adulthood, a process that is different in most other species. Importantly, once established, methylation patterns remained stable, as demonstrated using in vitro cultures. Thus, the marmoset monkey is a unique model for the study of postnatal DNA methylation mechanisms in germ cells and for the identification of epimutations and their causes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jörg Gromoll
- a Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology , Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster , Germany
| | - Joachim Wistuba
- a Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology , Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster , Germany
| | - Ina Tröndle
- a Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology , Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster , Germany
| | - Sandra Laurentino
- a Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology , Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster , Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- a Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology , Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster , Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- a Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology , Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster , Germany
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Yamada M, De Chiara L, Seandel M. Spermatogonial Stem Cells: Implications for Genetic Disorders and Prevention. Stem Cells Dev 2016; 25:1483-1494. [PMID: 27596369 PMCID: PMC5035912 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2016.0210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) propagate mammalian spermatogenesis throughout male reproductive life by continuously self-renewing and differentiating, ultimately, into sperm. SSCs can be cultured for long periods and restore spermatogenesis upon transplantation back into the native microenvironment in vivo. Conventionally, SSC research has been focused mainly on male infertility and, to a lesser extent, on cell reprogramming. With the advent of genome-wide sequencing technology, however, human studies have uncovered a wide range of pathogenic alleles that arise in the male germ line. A subset of de novo point mutations was shown to originate in SSCs and cause congenital disorders in children. This review describes both monogenic diseases (eg, Apert syndrome) and complex disorders that are either known or suspected to be driven by mutations in SSCs. We propose that SSC culture is a suitable model for studying the origin and mechanisms of these diseases. Lastly, we discuss strategies for future clinical implementation of SSC-based technology, from detecting mutation burden by sperm screening to gene correction in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makiko Yamada
- Joan and Sanford I Weill Medical College of Cornell University, 12295, Surgery, New York, New York, United States ;
| | - Letizia De Chiara
- Joan and Sanford I Weill Medical College of Cornell University, 12295, Surgery, New York, New York, United States ;
| | - Marco Seandel
- Joan and Sanford I Weill Medical College of Cornell University, 12295, Surgery, New York, New York, United States ;
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Mulder CL, Zheng Y, Jan SZ, Struijk RB, Repping S, Hamer G, van Pelt AMM. Spermatogonial stem cell autotransplantation and germline genomic editing: a future cure for spermatogenic failure and prevention of transmission of genomic diseases. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:561-73. [PMID: 27240817 PMCID: PMC5001497 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subfertility affects approximately 15% of all couples, and a severe male factor is identified in 17% of these couples. While the etiology of a severe male factor remains largely unknown, prior gonadotoxic treatment and genomic aberrations have been associated with this type of subfertility. Couples with a severe male factor can resort to ICSI, with either ejaculated spermatozoa (in case of oligozoospermia) or surgically retrieved testicular spermatozoa (in case of azoospermia) to generate their own biological children. Currently there is no direct treatment for azoospermia or oligozoospermia. Spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) autotransplantation (SSCT) is a promising novel clinical application currently under development to restore fertility in sterile childhood cancer survivors. Meanwhile, recent advances in genomic editing, especially the clustered regulatory interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) system, are likely to enable genomic rectification of human SSCs in the near future. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective of this review is to provide insights into the prospects of the potential clinical application of SSCT with or without genomic editing to cure spermatogenic failure and to prevent transmission of genetic diseases. SEARCH METHODS We performed a narrative review using the literature available on PubMed not restricted to any publishing year on topics of subfertility, fertility treatments, (molecular regulation of) spermatogenesis and SSCT, inherited (genetic) disorders, prenatal screening methods, genomic editing and germline editing. For germline editing, we focussed on the novel CRISPR-Cas9 system. We included papers written in English only. OUTCOMES Current techniques allow propagation of human SSCs in vitro, which is indispensable to successful transplantation. This technique is currently being developed in a preclinical setting for childhood cancer survivors who have stored a testis biopsy prior to cancer treatment. Similarly, SSCT could be used to restore fertility in sterile adult cancer survivors. In vitro propagation of SSCs might also be employed to enhance spermatogenesis in oligozoospermic men and in azoospermic men who still have functional SSCs albeit in insufficient numbers. The combination of SSCT with genomic editing techniques could potentially rectify defects in spermatogenesis caused by genomic mutations or, more broadly, prevent transmission of genomic diseases to the offspring. In spite of the promising prospects, SSCT and germline genomic editing are not yet clinically applicable and both techniques require optimization at various levels. WIDER IMPLICATIONS SSCT with or without genomic editing could potentially be used to restore fertility in cancer survivors to treat couples with a severe male factor and to prevent the paternal transmission of diseases. This will potentially allow these couples to have their own biological children. Technical development is progressing rapidly, and ethical reflection and societal debate on the use of SSCT with or without genomic editing is pressing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Callista L Mulder
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yi Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sabrina Z Jan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert B Struijk
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Geert Hamer
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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35
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Abdul Wahab AY, Md. Isa ML, Ramli R. Spermatogonial Stem Cells Protein Identification in In Vitro Culture from Non-Obstructive Azoospermia Patient. Malays J Med Sci 2016; 23:40-48. [PMID: 27418868 PMCID: PMC4934717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are classifiedas a unique adult stem cells that have capability to propagate, differentiate, and transmit genetic information to the next generation. Studies on human SSCs may help resolve male infertility problems, especially in azoospermia patients. Therefore, this study aims to propagate SSCs in-vitro with a presence of growth factor and detect SSC-specific protein cell surface markers. METHODS The sample was derived from non-obstructive azoospermic (NOA) patient. The disassociation of SSCs was done using trypsin. Specific cultures in serum-free media with added basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were developed to support self-renewal division. This undifferentiated protocol was performed for 49 days. Cells were analysed on days 1, 7, 14, 21, and 49. RESULTS Human SSCs began to aggregate and form colonies after 14 to 21 days in specific culture. Then, the cells were successful expanded and remained stable for a duration of 49 days. Four specifics markers were identified using immunofluorescence in SSCs on day 49: ITGα6, ITGβ CD9, and GFRα1. CONCLUSION This approach of using in vitro culture with additional growth factor is able to propagate SSCs from non-obstructive azoospermia patient via detection of protein cell surface markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azantee Yazmie Abdul Wahab
- Department of Obstetrics & Gyanecology (O&G), Kulliyyah of Medicine, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Jalan Hospital Campus, 25150 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Lokman Md. Isa
- Department of Basic Medical Science of Nursing, Kulliyyah of Nursing, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) Jalan Hospital Campus, 25150 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Roszaman Ramli
- IIUM Fertility Centre, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) Jalan Hospital Campus, 25150 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
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36
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von Kopylow K, Schulze W, Salzbrunn A, Spiess AN. Isolation and gene expression analysis of single potential human spermatogonial stem cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:229-39. [PMID: 26792870 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 01/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY HYPOTHESIS It is possible to isolate pure populations of single potential human spermatogonial stem cells without somatic contamination for down-stream applications, for example cell culture and gene expression analysis. STUDY FINDING We isolated pure populations of single potential human spermatogonial stem cells (hSSC) without contaminating somatic cells and analyzed gene expression of these cells via single-cell real-time RT-PCR. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The isolation of a pure hSSC fraction could enable clinical applications such as fertility preservation for prepubertal boys and in vitro-spermatogenesis. By utilizing largely nonspecific markers for the isolation of spermatogonia (SPG) and hSSC, previously published cell selection methods are not able to deliver pure target cell populations without contamination by testicular somatic cells. However, uniform cell populations free of somatic cells are necessary to guarantee defined growth conditions in cell culture experiments and to prevent unintended stem cell differentiation. Fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) is a cell surface protein of human undifferentiated A-type SPG and a promising candidate marker for hSSC. It is exclusively expressed in small, non-proliferating subgroups of this spermatogonial cell type together with the pluripotency-associated protein and spermatogonial nuclear marker undifferentiated embryonic cell transcription factor 1 (UTF1). STUDY DESIGN, SAMPLES/MATERIALS, METHODS We specifically selected the FGFR3-positive spermatogonial subpopulation from two 30 mg biopsies per patient from a total of 37 patients with full spermatogenesis and three patients with meiotic arrest. We then employed cell selection with magnetic beads in combination with a fluorescence-activated cell sorter antibody directed against human FGFR3 to tag and visually identify human FGFR3-positive spermatogonia. Positively selected and bead-labeled cells were subsequently picked with a micromanipulator. Analysis of the isolated cells was carried out by single-cell real-time RT-PCR, real-time RT-PCR, immunocytochemistry and live/dead staining. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Single-cell real-time RT-PCR and real-time RT-PCR of pooled cells indicate that bead-labeled single cells express FGFR3 with high heterogeneity at the mRNA level, while bead-unlabeled cells lack FGFR3 mRNA. Furthermore, isolated cells exhibit strong immunocytochemical staining for the stem cell factor UTF1 and are viable. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The cell population isolated in this study has to be tested for their potential stem cell characteristics via xenotransplantation. Due to the small amount of the isolated cells, propagation by cell culture will be essential. Other potential hSSC without FGFR3 surface expression will not be captured with the provided experimental design. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The technical approach as developed in this work could encourage the scientific community to test other established or novel hSSC markers on single SPG that present with potential stem cell-like features. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTERESTS The project was funded by the DFG Research Unit FOR1041 Germ cell potential (SCH 587/3-2) and DFG grants to K.v.K. (KO 4769/2-1) and A.-N.S. (SP 721/4-1). The authors declare no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- K von Kopylow
- Department of Andrology, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - W Schulze
- Department of Andrology, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany MVZ Fertility Center Hamburg GmbH, amedes-group, 20095 Hamburg, Germany
| | - A Salzbrunn
- Department of Andrology, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - A-N Spiess
- Department of Andrology, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
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Lin ZYC, Hikabe O, Suzuki S, Hirano T, Siomi H, Sasaki E, Imamura M, Okano H. Sphere-formation culture of testicular germ cells in the common marmoset, a small New World monkey. Primates 2015; 57:129-35. [PMID: 26530217 DOI: 10.1007/s10329-015-0500-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogonia are specialized cells responsible for continuous spermatogenesis and the production of offspring. Because of this biological property, in vitro culture of spermatogonia provides a powerful methodology to advance reproductive biology and engineering. However, methods for culturing primate spermatogonia are poorly established. We have designed a novel method for culturing spermatogonia in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus), a small primate. By using our method with a suite of growth factors, adult marmoset testis-derived germ cells could be cultured in the form of a floating sphere for several weeks. Notably, this method could be applied not only to freshly isolated cells but also to cryopreserved cell stocks. The spheres enriched spermatogonia and early spermatocytes, and could be assembled from a C-KIT(+) spermatogonial population. Techniques for culturing spermatogonia could facilitate increased understanding of primate reproduction as well as the preservation of valuable biomaterials from nonhuman primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Yu-Ching Lin
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keio University, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Orie Hikabe
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keio University, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Sadafumi Suzuki
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keio University, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Takamasa Hirano
- Department of Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Keio University, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Siomi
- Department of Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Keio University, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Erika Sasaki
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keio University, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan.,Department of Applied Developmental Biology, Central Institute for Experimental Animals, 3-25-12 Tonomachi, Kawasaki, 210-0821, Japan.,PRESTO Japan Science and Technology Agency, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masanori Imamura
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keio University, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan. .,Molecular Biology Section, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Aichi, 484-8506, Japan.
| | - Hideyuki Okano
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keio University, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan.
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Baert Y, Braye A, Struijk RB, van Pelt AMM, Goossens E. Cryopreservation of testicular tissue before long-term testicular cell culture does not alter in vitro cell dynamics. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:1244-52.e1-4. [PMID: 26260199 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.07.1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether testicular cell dynamics are altered during long-term culture after testicular tissue cryopreservation. DESIGN Experimental basic science study. SETTING Reproductive biology laboratory. PATIENT(S) Testicular tissue with normal spermatogenesis was obtained from six donors. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Detection and comparison of testicular cells from fresh and frozen tissues during long-term culture. RESULT(S) Human testicular cells derived from fresh (n = 3) and cryopreserved (n = 3) tissues were cultured for 2 months and analyzed with quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence. Spermatogonia including spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) were reliably detected by combining VASA, a germ cell marker, with UCHL1, a marker expressed by spermatogonia. The established markers STAR, ACTA2, and SOX9 were used to analyze the presence of Leydig cells, peritubular myoid cells, and Sertoli cells, respectively. No obvious differences were found between the cultures initiated from fresh or cryopreserved tissues. Single or small groups of SSCs (VASA(+)/UCHL1(+)) were detected in considerable amounts up to 1 month of culture, but infrequently after 2 months. SSCs were found attached to the feeder monolayer, which expressed markers for Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and peritubular myoid cells. In addition, VASA(-)/UCHL1(+) cells, most likely originating from the interstitium, also contributed to this monolayer. Apart from Sertoli cells, all somatic cell types could be detected throughout the culture period. CONCLUSION(S) Testicular tissue can be cryopreserved before long-term culture without modifying its outcome, which encourages implementation of testicular tissue banking for fertility preservation. However, because of the limited numbers of SSCs available after 2 months, further exploration and optimization of the culture system is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoni Baert
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Aude Braye
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robin B Struijk
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen Goossens
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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Schneider F, Redmann K, Wistuba J, Schlatt S, Kliesch S, Neuhaus N. Comparison of enzymatic digestion and mechanical dissociation of human testicular tissues. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:302-11.e3. [PMID: 26056924 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Revised: 04/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare mechanical dissociation, employing the Medimachine system, and enzymatic digestion of human testicular tissues with respect to the proportion of spermatogonia and somatic cells, with the long-term objective of establishing human spermatogonial cultures. DESIGN Experimental basic science study. SETTING Reproductive biology laboratory. PATIENT(S) Testicular tissues were obtained from patients with gender dysphoria on the day of sex reassignment surgery. On the basis of the histological evaluation, tissue samples with complete spermatogenesis (fresh, n = 6; cryopreserved, n = 7) and with meiotic arrest (cryopreserved, n = 4) were selected. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The composition of testicular cell suspensions was assessed performing quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analyses for germ cell-specific (FGFR3, SALL4, UTF1, MAGE-A4) and somatic marker genes (ACTA2 and VIM). Additionally, flow-cytometric analyses were used to evaluate the percentage of SALL4-and vimentin-positive cells. RESULT(S) While Medimachine dissociation yielded higher cell numbers in all patient groups, viability of cells was highly variable and correlated with the histological status of the tissue. Interestingly, qPCR analysis revealed a significantly decreased expression of the somatic marker genes ACTA2 and VIM and an increased expression of the spermatogonial marker genes FGFR3 and SALL4 after Medimachine dissociation. These findings were corroborated by flow-cytometric analyses that demonstrated that the proportion of SALL4-positive cells was up to 4 times higher after mechanical dissociation. CONCLUSION(S) Medimachine dissociation of human testicular tissues is comparably fast and leads to an enrichment of SALL4-positive spermatogonia. The use of this method may therefore constitute an advantage for the establishment of human spermatogonial cell cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Schneider
- Institute for Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus, Münster, Germany; Department of Clinical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus, Münster, Germany
| | - Klaus Redmann
- Institute for Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus, Münster, Germany
| | - Joachim Wistuba
- Institute for Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus, Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Institute for Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Department of Clinical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus, Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Institute for Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus, Münster, Germany.
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Aponte PM. Spermatogonial stem cells: Current biotechnological advances in reproduction and regenerative medicine. World J Stem Cells 2015; 7:669-680. [PMID: 26029339 PMCID: PMC4444608 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v7.i4.669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the germ stem cells of the seminiferous epithelium in the testis. Through the process of spermatogenesis, they produce sperm while concomitantly keeping their cellular pool constant through self-renewal. SSC biology offers important applications for animal reproduction and overcoming human disease through regenerative therapies. To this end, several techniques involving SSCs have been developed and will be covered in this article. SSCs convey genetic information to the next generation, a property that can be exploited for gene targeting. Additionally, SSCs can be induced to become embryonic stem cell-like pluripotent cells in vitro. Updates on SSC transplantation techniques with related applications, such as fertility restoration and preservation of endangered species, are also covered on this article. SSC suspensions can be transplanted to the testis of an animal and this has given the basis for SSC functional assays. This procedure has proven technically demanding in large animals and men. In parallel, testis tissue xenografting, another transplantation technique, was developed and resulted in sperm production in testis explants grafted into ectopical locations in foreign species. Since SSC culture holds a pivotal role in SSC biotechnologies, current advances are overviewed. Finally, spermatogenesis in vitro, already demonstrated in mice, offers great promises to cope with reproductive issues in the farm animal industry and human clinical applications.
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Schneider F, Neuhaus N, Wistuba J, Zitzmann M, Heß J, Mahler D, van Ahlen H, Schlatt S, Kliesch S. Testicular Functions and Clinical Characterization of Patients with Gender Dysphoria (GD) Undergoing Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS). J Sex Med 2015; 12:2190-200. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.13022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Altman E, Yango P, Moustafa R, Smith JF, Klatsky PC, Tran ND. Characterization of human spermatogonial stem cell markers in fetal, pediatric, and adult testicular tissues. Reproduction 2014; 148:417-27. [PMID: 25030892 PMCID: PMC4599365 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Autologous spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) transplantation is a potential therapeutic modality for patients with azoospermia following cancer treatment. For this promise to be realized, definitive membrane markers of prepubertal and adult human SSCs must be characterized in order to permit SSC isolation and subsequent expansion. This study further characterizes the markers of male gonocytes, prespermatogonia, and SSCs in humans. Human fetal, prepubertal, and adult testicular tissues were analyzed by confocal microscopy, fluorescence-activated cell sorting, and qRT-PCR for the expression of unique germ cell membrane markers. During male fetal development, THY1 and KIT (C-Kit) are transient markers of gonocytes but not in prespermatogonia and post-natal SSCs. Although KIT expression is detected in gonocytes, THY1 expression is also detected in the somatic component of the fetal testes in addition to gonocytes. In the third trimester of gestation, THY1 expression shifts exclusively to the somatic cells of the testes where it continues to be detected only in the somatic cells postnatally. In contrast, SSEA4 expression was only detected in the gonocytes, prespermatogonia, SSCs, and Sertoli cells of the fetal and prepubertal testes. After puberty, SSEA4 expression can only be detected in primitive spermatogonia. Thus, although THY1 and KIT are transient markers of gonocytes, SSEA4 is the only common membrane marker of gonocytes, prespermatogonia, and SSCs from fetal through adult human development. This finding is essential for the isolation of prepubertal and adult SSCs, which may someday permit fertility preservation and reversal of azoospermia following cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eran Altman
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USAHelen Schneider Hospital for WomenRabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, IsraelDepartment of UrologyUniversity of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyAlbert Einstein University, Bronx, New York, USA Department of ObstetricsGynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USAHelen Schneider Hospital for WomenRabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, IsraelDepartment of UrologyUniversity of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyAlbert Einstein University, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Pamela Yango
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USAHelen Schneider Hospital for WomenRabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, IsraelDepartment of UrologyUniversity of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyAlbert Einstein University, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Radwa Moustafa
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USAHelen Schneider Hospital for WomenRabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, IsraelDepartment of UrologyUniversity of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyAlbert Einstein University, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - James F Smith
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USAHelen Schneider Hospital for WomenRabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, IsraelDepartment of UrologyUniversity of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyAlbert Einstein University, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Peter C Klatsky
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USAHelen Schneider Hospital for WomenRabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, IsraelDepartment of UrologyUniversity of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyAlbert Einstein University, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Nam D Tran
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USAHelen Schneider Hospital for WomenRabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, IsraelDepartment of UrologyUniversity of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyAlbert Einstein University, Bronx, New York, USA
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Zheng Y, Thomas A, Schmidt CM, Dann CT. Quantitative detection of human spermatogonia for optimization of spermatogonial stem cell culture. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2497-511. [PMID: 25267789 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can human spermatogonia be detected in long-term primary testicular cell cultures using validated, germ cell-specific markers of spermatogonia? SUMMARY ANSWER Germ cell-specific markers of spermatogonia/spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are detected in early (1-2 weeks) but not late (> 6 weeks) primary testicular cell cultures; somatic cell markers are detected in late primary testicular cell cultures. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The development of conditions for human SSC culture is critically dependent on the ability to define cell types unequivocally and to quantify spermatogonia/SSCs. Growth by somatic cells presents a major challenge in the establishment of SSC cultures and therefore markers that define spermatogonia/SSCs, but are not also expressed by testicular somatic cells, are essential for accurate characterization of SSC cultures. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Testicular tissue from eight organ donors with normal spermatogenesis was used for assay validation and establishing primary testicular cell cultures. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Immunofluorescence analysis of normal human testicular tissue was used to validate antibodies (UTF1, SALL4, DAZL and VIM) and then the antibodies were used to demonstrate that primary testicular cells cultured in vitro for 1-2 weeks were composed of somatic cells and rare germ cells. Primary testicular cell cultures were further characterized by comparing to testicular somatic cell cultures using quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (UTF1, FGFR3, ZBTB16, GPR125, DAZL, GATA4 and VIM) and flow cytometry (CD9 and SSEA4). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE UTF1, FGFR3, DAZL and ZBTB16 qRT-PCR and SSEA4 flow cytometry were validated for the sensitive, quantitative and specific detection of germ cells. In contrast, GPR125 mRNA and CD9 were found to be not specific to germ cells because they were also expressed in testicular somatic cell cultures. While the germ cell-specific markers were detected in early primary testicular cell cultures (1-2 weeks), their expression steadily declined over time in vitro. After 6 weeks in culture only somatic cells were detected. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Different groups attempting SSC culture have utilized different sources of human testes and minor differences in the preparation and maintenance of the testicular cell cultures. Differences in outcome may be explained by genetic background of the source tissue or technical differences. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The ability to propagate human SSCs in vitro is a prerequisite for proposed autologous transplantation therapy aimed at restoring fertility to men who have been treated for childhood cancer. By applying the assays validated here it will be possible to quantitatively compare human SSC culture conditions. The eventual development of conditions for long-term propagation of human SSCs in vitro will greatly facilitate learning about the basic biology of these cells and in turn the ability to use human SSCs in therapy. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The experiments presented in this manuscript were funded by a Project Development Team within the ICTSI NIH/NCRR Grant Number TR000006. The authors declare no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Zheng
- Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405-7102, USA
| | - A Thomas
- Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405-7102, USA
| | - C M Schmidt
- Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405-7102, USA
| | - C T Dann
- Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405-7102, USA
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Langenstroth D, Kossack N, Westernströer B, Wistuba J, Behr R, Gromoll J, Schlatt S. Separation of somatic and germ cells is required to establish primate spermatogonial cultures. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2018-31. [PMID: 24963164 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can primate spermatogonial cultures be optimized by application of separation steps and well defined culture conditions? SUMMARY ANSWER We identified the cell fraction which provides the best source for primate spermatogonia when prolonged culture is desired. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Man and marmoset show similar characteristics in regard to germ cell development and function. Several protocols for isolation and culture of human testis-derived germline stem cells have been described. Subsequent analysis revealed doubts on the germline origin of these cells and characterized them as mesenchymal stem cells or fibroblasts. Studies using marmosets as preclinical model confirmed that the published isolation protocols did not lead to propagation of germline cells. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Testicular cells derived from nine adult marmoset monkeys (Callithrix jacchus) were cultured for 1, 3, 6 and 11 days and consecutively analyzed for the presence of spermatogonia, differentiating germ cells and testicular somatic cells. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Testicular tissue of nine adult marmoset monkeys was enzymatically dissociated and subjected to two different cell culture approaches. In the first approach all cells were kept in the same dish (non-separate culture, n = 5). In the second approach the supernatant cells were transferred into a new dish 24 h after seeding and subsequently supernatant and attached cells were cultured separately (separate culture, n = 4). Real-time quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence were used to analyze the expression of reliable germ cell and somatic markers throughout the culture period. Germ cell transplantation assays and subsequent wholemount analyses were performed to functionally evaluate the colonization of spermatogonial cells. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE This is the first report revealing an efficient isolation and culture of putative marmoset spermatogonial stem cells with colonization ability. Our results indicate that a separation of spermatogonia from testicular somatic cells is a crucial step during cell preparation. We identified the overgrowth of more rapidly expanding somatic cells to be a major problem when establishing spermatogonial cultures. Initiating germ cell cultures from the supernatant and maintaining germ cells in suspension cultures minimized the somatic cell contamination and provided enriched germ cell fractions which displayed after 11 days of culture a significantly higher expression of germ cell markers genes (DDX-4, MAGE A-4; P < 0.05) compared with separately cultured attached cells. Additionally, germ cell transplantation experiments demonstrated a significantly higher absolute number of cells with colonization ability (P < 0.001) in supernatant cells after 11 days of separate culture. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study presents a relevant aspect for the successful setup of spermatogonial cultures but provides limited data regarding the question of whether the long-term maintenance of spermatogonia can be achieved. Transfer of these preclinical data to man may require modifications of the protocol. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Spermatogonial cultures from rodents have become important and innovative tools for basic and applied research in reproductive biology and veterinary medicine. It is expected that spermatogonia-based strategies will be transformed into clinical applications for the treatment of male infertility. Our data in the marmoset monkey may be highly relevant to establish spermatogonial cultures of human testes. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS Funding was provided by the DFG-Research Unit FOR 1041 Germ Cell Potential (SCHL394/11-2) and by the Graduate Program Cell Dynamics and Disease (CEDAD) together with the International Max Planck Research School - Molecular Biomedicine (IMPRS-MBM). The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Langenstroth
- Institute of Reproduction and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Kossack
- Institute of Reproduction and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Birgit Westernströer
- Institute of Reproduction and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Joachim Wistuba
- Institute of Reproduction and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Behr
- Stem Cell Biology Unit, German Primate Center, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jörg Gromoll
- Institute of Reproduction and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Institute of Reproduction and Regenerative Biology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D11, 48149 Münster, Germany
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Windschüttl S, Nettersheim D, Schlatt S, Huber A, Welter H, Schwarzer JU, Köhn FM, Schorle H, Mayerhofer A. Are testicular mast cells involved in the regulation of germ cells in man? Andrology 2014; 2:615-22. [DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2014.00227.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Revised: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Windschüttl
- Anatomy III - Cell Biology; Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU); Munich Germany
| | - D. Nettersheim
- Department of Developmental Pathology; Bonn Medical School; Institute of Pathology; Bonn Germany
| | - S. Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology; Münster Germany
| | - A. Huber
- Anatomy III - Cell Biology; Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU); Munich Germany
| | - H. Welter
- Anatomy III - Cell Biology; Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU); Munich Germany
| | | | | | - H. Schorle
- Department of Developmental Pathology; Bonn Medical School; Institute of Pathology; Bonn Germany
| | - A. Mayerhofer
- Anatomy III - Cell Biology; Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU); Munich Germany
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Valli H, Sukhwani M, Dovey SL, Peters KA, Donohue J, Castro CA, Chu T, Marshall GR, Orwig KE. Fluorescence- and magnetic-activated cell sorting strategies to isolate and enrich human spermatogonial stem cells. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:566-580.e7. [PMID: 24890267 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2014] [Revised: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the molecular characteristics of human spermatogonia and optimize methods to enrich spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). DESIGN Laboratory study using human tissues. SETTING Research institute. PATIENT(S) Healthy adult human testicular tissue. INTERVENTION(S) Human testicular tissue was fixed or digested with enzymes to produce a cell suspension. Human testis cells were fractionated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Immunostaining for selected markers, human-to-nude mouse xenotransplantation assay. RESULT(S) Immunohistochemistry costaining revealed the relative expression patterns of SALL4, UTF1, ZBTB16, UCHL1, and ENO2 in human undifferentiated spermatogonia as well as the extent of overlap with the differentiation marker KIT. Whole mount analyses revealed that human undifferentiated spermatogonia (UCHL1+) were typically arranged in clones of one to four cells whereas differentiated spermatogonia (KIT+) were typically arranged in clones of eight or more cells. The ratio of undifferentiated-to-differentiated spermatogonia is greater in humans than in rodents. The SSC colonizing activity was enriched in the THY1dim and ITGA6+ fractions of human testes sorted by FACS. ITGA6 was effective for sorting human SSCs by MACS; THY1 and EPCAM were not. CONCLUSION(S) Human spermatogonial differentiation correlates with increased clone size and onset of KIT expression, similar to rodents. The undifferentiated-to-differentiated developmental dynamics in human spermatogonia is different than rodents. THY1, ITGA6, and EPCAM can be used to enrich human SSC colonizing activity by FACS, but only ITGA6 is amenable to high throughput sorting by MACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Valli
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Meena Sukhwani
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Serena L Dovey
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Karen A Peters
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Julia Donohue
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Carlos A Castro
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Tianjiao Chu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Gary R Marshall
- Department of Natural Sciences, Chatham University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Department of Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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Differential gene expression profiling of enriched human spermatogonia after short- and long-term culture. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:138350. [PMID: 24738045 PMCID: PMC3971551 DOI: 10.1155/2014/138350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2013] [Accepted: 11/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to provide a molecular signature for enriched adult human stem/progenitor spermatogonia during short-term (<2 weeks) and long-term culture (up to more than 14 months) in comparison to human testicular fibroblasts and human embryonic stem cells. Human spermatogonia were isolated by CD49f magnetic activated cell sorting and collagen(-)/laminin(+) matrix binding from primary testis cultures obtained from ten adult men. For transcriptomic analysis, single spermatogonia-like cells were collected based on their morphology and dimensions using a micromanipulation system from the enriched germ cell cultures. Immunocytochemical, RT-PCR and microarray analyses revealed that the analyzed populations of cells were distinct at the molecular level. The germ- and pluripotency-associated genes and genes of differentiation/spermatogenesis pathway were highly expressed in enriched short-term cultured spermatogonia. After long-term culture, a proportion of cells retained and aggravated the "spermatogonial" gene expression profile with the expression of germ and pluripotency-associated genes, while in the majority of long-term cultured cells this molecular profile, typical for the differentiation pathway, was reduced and more genes related to the extracellular matrix production and attachment were expressed. The approach we provide here to study the molecular status of in vitro cultured spermatogonia may be important to optimize the culture conditions and to evaluate the germ cell plasticity in the future.
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Song HW, Wilkinson MF. Transcriptional control of spermatogonial maintenance and differentiation. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2014; 30:14-26. [PMID: 24560784 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a multistep process that generates millions of spermatozoa per day in mammals. A key to this process is the spermatogonial stem cell (SSC), which has the dual property of continually renewing and undergoing differentiation into a spermatogonial progenitor that expands and further differentiates. In this review, we will focus on how these proliferative and early differentiation steps in mammalian male germ cells are controlled by transcription factors. Most of the transcription factors that have so far been identified as promoting SSC self-renewal (BCL6B, BRACHYURY, ETV5, ID4, LHX1, and POU3F1) are upregulated by glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). Since GDNF is crucial for promoting SSC self-renewal, this suggests that these transcription factors are responsible for coordinating the action of GDNF in SSCs. Other transcription factors that promote SSC self-renewal are expressed independently of GDNF (FOXO1, PLZF, POU5F1, and TAF4B) and thus may act in non-GDNF pathways to promote SSC cell growth or survival. Several transcription factors have been identified that promote spermatogonial differentiation (DMRT1, NGN3, SOHLH1, SOHLH2, SOX3, and STAT3); some of these may influence the decision of an SSC to commit to differentiate while others may promote later spermatogonial differentiation steps. Many of these transcription factors regulate each other and act on common targets, suggesting they integrate to form complex transcriptional networks in self-renewing and differentiating spermatogonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Won Song
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Miles F Wilkinson
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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