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Roustaee S, Sani M, Mehranpour M, Raee P, Moghaddam MH, Bahar R, Nourirad SN, Golzarian MJ, Beirami A, Jafary H, Aalipour MA, Taghizadeh M, Abdollahifar MA, Vakili K, Fathi M, Heidari MH, Abbaszadeh HA, Aliaghaei A, Nazarian H. Chronic Administration of Lisdexamfetamine Induces Apoptosis and Inflammation and Reduces Sperm Quality in Adult Male Rats. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:1278-1289. [PMID: 38228974 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01449-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Concerns have been raised about potentially irreversible brain damage and damage to the neuroendocrine system during development when treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder with lisdexamfetamine (LDX), a norepinephrine dopamine reuptake inhibitor. This study aims to elucidate the potential adverse effects of LDX on the male reproductive system due to its widespread use and potential for abuse. In this study, adult male rats were randomized into control and LDX groups. Thirty milligrams per kilogram LDX was administered orally for 3 weeks. After isolation of epididymal spermatozoa, the rats were euthanized and testicular tissues were collected for stereological and molecular analyses. The LDX group showed a decrease in sperm motility and an increase in DNA fragmentation compared to the control group. There was also a dramatic decrease in testosterone in the LDX group. Testicular expression of caspase-3 and TNF-α was significantly increased in the LDX group. According to our findings, prolonged use of LDX leads to reduced sperm quality. It also induces apoptosis, inflammatory response, and pathological changes in the testicular tissue. What we have observed in this study is noteworthy but requires further investigation, particularly in people who use LDX over a longer period of time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Roustaee
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Sani
- Department of Educational Neuroscience, Aras International Campus, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Mehranpour
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pourya Raee
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meysam Hassani Moghaddam
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Bahar
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Naghmeh Nourirad
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Jasim Golzarian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirreza Beirami
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hosein Jafary
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Aalipour
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taghizadeh
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Amin Abdollahifar
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kimia Vakili
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mobina Fathi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossain Heidari
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hojjat-Allah Abbaszadeh
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Laser Application in Medical Sciences Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Aliaghaei
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hamid Nazarian
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Essawy A, Matar S, Mohamed N, Abdel-Wahab W, Abdou H. Ginkgo biloba extract protects against tartrazine-induced testicular toxicity in rats: involvement of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2024; 31:15065-15077. [PMID: 38286926 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32047-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
The use of additives, especially colorants, in food and pharmaceutical industry is increasing dramatically. Currently, additives are classified as contaminants of emerging concern (CECs). Concerns have been raised about the potential hazards of food additives to reproductive organs and fertility. The present study investigates the reproductive toxicity of tartrazine (TRZ), a synthetic colorant, in male rats and aims to explore the curative effect of Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) against TRZ-induced testicular toxicity. Twenty-four rats were divided into four groups: the control (0.5 ml distilled water), the EGb group (100 mg/kg EGb alone), the TRZ group (7.5 mg/kg TRZ alone), and the TRZ-EGb group (7.5 mg/kg TRZ plus 100 mg/kg EGb). The doses were administered orally in distilled water once daily for 28 days. Toxicity studies of TRZ investigated testicular redox state, serum gonadotropins, and testosterone levels, testicular 17 ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity, sperm count and quality, levels of inflammatory cytokines, and caspase-3 expression as an apoptotic marker. Also, histopathological alterations of the testes were examined. TRZ significantly affected the testicular redox status as indicated by the increase in malondialdehyde and the decrease in reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase. It also disrupted serum gonadotropins (follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone) and testosterone levels and the activity of testicular 17ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Additionally, TRZ adversely affected sperm count, motility, viability, and abnormality. Levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and expression of caspase-3 were increased in the testes. Histopathological examination of the testes supported the alterations mentioned above. Administration of EGb significantly ameliorated TRZ-induced testicular toxicity in rats. In conclusion, EGb protected against TRZ-induced testicular toxicity through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina Essawy
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Shreen Matar
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Nema Mohamed
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Wessam Abdel-Wahab
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Heba Abdou
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Moreira R, Martins AD, Alves MG, de Lourdes Pereira M, Oliveira PF. A Comprehensive Review of the Impact of Chromium Picolinate on Testicular Steroidogenesis and Antioxidant Balance. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1572. [PMID: 37627567 PMCID: PMC10451325 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Low testosterone (T) levels are a major cause of male infertility, as this hormone is crucial for several processes throughout the entire male reproductive tract. Leydig cells (LC) produce T through testicular steroidogenesis. Disrupted LC function can hinder steroid production and fertility. Among the factors that affect steroidogenesis, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) raise concerns, as they disturb hormonal signaling. Chromium is classified as an EDC, and its main forms are hexavalent (Cr(VI)) and trivalent chromium (Cr(III)). While Cr(III) is controversially regarded as an essential metal, its compound Cr(III) picolinate (CrPic3) is used as a nutritional supplement due to its antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. This review aims to identify the possible effects of CrPic3 on testicular steroidogenesis and thus, on male fertility. The detriments caused by CrPic3 in LC include the inhibition of enzymes involved in steroidogenesis, and, as in other cells, the induction of mutagenesis and apoptosis. Remarkably, CrPic3 impacts male fertility through the alteration of reactive oxygen species (ROS), T levels, and sperm parameters (sperm motility and abnormal sperm count). However, gaps and inconsistencies exist in the literature concerning its effects on male fertility. Thus, further research is imperative to comprehend the underlying mechanisms of CrPic3 in the physiological processes relevant to male fertility, ensuring the supplement's safety for use by men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rúben Moreira
- Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (R.M.); (A.D.M.)
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana D. Martins
- Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (R.M.); (A.D.M.)
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marco G. Alves
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Pedro F. Oliveira
- Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (R.M.); (A.D.M.)
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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Ferreiro ME, Méndez CS, Glienke L, Sobarzo CM, Ferraris MJ, Pisera DA, Lustig L, Jacobo PV, Theas MS. Unraveling the effect of the inflammatory microenvironment in spermatogenesis progression. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 392:581-604. [PMID: 36627392 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03703-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that causes progressive spermatogenic impairment. EAO is characterized by high intratesticular levels of nitric oxide (NO) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) causing germ cell apoptosis and Sertoli cell dysfunction. However, the impact of this inflammatory milieu on the spermatogenic wave is unknown. Therefore, we studied the effect of inflammation on spermatogonia and preleptotene spermatocyte cell cycle progression in an EAO context and through the intratesticular DETA-NO and TNFα injection in the normal rat testes. In EAO, premeiotic germ cell proliferation is limited as a consequence of the undifferentiated spermatogonia (CD9+) cell cycle arrest in G2/M and the reduced number of differentiated spermatogonia (c-kit+) and preleptotene spermatocytes that enter in the meiotic S-phase. Although inflammation disrupts spermatogenesis in EAO, it is maintained in some seminiferous tubules at XIV and VII-VIII stages of the epithelial cell cycle, thereby guaranteeing sperm production. We found that DETA-NO (2 mM) injected in normal testes arrests spermatogonia and preleptotene spermatocyte cell cycle; this effect reduces the number of proliferative spermatogonia and the number of preleptotene spermatocytes in meiosis S-phase (36 h after). The temporal inhibition of spermatogonia clonal amplification delayed progression of the spermatogenic wave (5 days after) finally altering spermatogenesis. TNFα (0.5 and 1 µg) exposure did not affect premeiotic germ cell cycle or spermatogenic wave. Our results show that in EAO the inflammatory microenvironment altered spermatogenesis kinetics through premeiotic germ cell cycle arrest and that NO is a sufficient factor contributing to this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cinthia Soledad Méndez
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 7, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, C1421ABG, Argentina
| | - Leilane Glienke
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Cátedra II de Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 7, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, C1421ABG, Argentina
| | - Cristian Marcelo Sobarzo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Cátedra II de Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 7, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, C1421ABG, Argentina
| | - María Jimena Ferraris
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Svante Arrhenius väg 16C SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Daniel Alberto Pisera
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 7, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, C1421ABG, Argentina
| | - Livia Lustig
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Cátedra II de Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 7, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, C1421ABG, Argentina
| | - Patricia Verónica Jacobo
- Laboratorio de Reproducción y Fisiología Materno-Placentaria (CONICET), Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental (DBEE), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Intendente Güiraldes 2160, Pabellón 2, Piso 4, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, C1428EGA, Argentina
| | - María Susana Theas
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Cátedra II de Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina. .,CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Paraguay 2155, Piso 10, Laboratorio 7, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, C1421ABG, Argentina.
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Chen J, Chen J, Fang Y, Shen Q, Zhao K, Liu C, Zhang H. Microbiology and immune mechanisms associated with male infertility. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1139450. [PMID: 36895560 PMCID: PMC9989213 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1139450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Up to 50% of infertility is caused by the male side. Varicocele, orchitis, prostatitis, oligospermia, asthenospermia, and azoospermia are common causes of impaired male reproductive function and male infertility. In recent years, more and more studies have shown that microorganisms play an increasingly important role in the occurrence of these diseases. This review will discuss the microbiological changes associated with male infertility from the perspective of etiology, and how microorganisms affect the normal function of the male reproductive system through immune mechanisms. Linking male infertility with microbiome and immunomics can help us recognize the immune response under different disease states, providing more targeted immune target therapy for these diseases, and even the possibility of combined immunotherapy and microbial therapy for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinyu Chen
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yiwei Fang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiuzi Shen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Elish SEA, Sanad FA, Baky MH, Yasin NAE, Temraz A, El-Tantawy WH. Ficus natalensis extract alleviates Cadmium chloride-induced testicular disruptions in albino rats. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2022; 70:126924. [PMID: 35007915 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2022.126924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cadmium is a potential environmental pollutant with worldwide health problems. Many Ficus species are reported to have an extensive diversity of traditional uses, among them the treatment of reproductive toxicity. OBJECTIVES This study set out to evaluate the effect of Ficus natalensis extract on the testicular impairments induced by cadmium chloride (CdCl2) and investigated the potential mechanisms associated with its treatment. METHODS Thus, 40 male albino rats were categorized into 4 groups (n = 10); group I (control), group II (cadmium-treated group) orally received 5 mg/kg/day CdCl2 for one month, group III (cadmium + Ficus natalensis extract) orally received 5 mg/kg/day CdCl2 for one month plus 200 mg/kg/day Ficus natalensis extract for another month, and group IV (cadmium + reference drug (mesterolone) orally received 5 mg/kg/day CdCl2 for one month plus 4.16 mg/kg/day mesterolone for another month. RESULTS At the end of experiment, CdCl2 administration markedly induced histological and histo-morphometric changes with a substantial (p < 0.05) decrease in the sperm count, sperm motility, serum TAC, serum testosterone, downregulation in the mRNA expression levels of testicular 17β-HSD and StAR, in addition to a significant increase in serum TNF-α and testicular MDA level compared to the control group. Conversely, the treatment with Ficus natalensis methanolic extract as well as the reference drug significantly ameliorated the above-mentioned adverse effects induced by CdCl2. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggested that Ficus natalensis extract can attenuate the CdCl2-induced testicular impairments via inhibiting the oxidative cell damage and inflammation that contributed to CdCl2 toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaimaa E A Elish
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy-Egyptian Russian University, Badr City, New Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Fatma A Sanad
- National Organization for Drug Control and Research, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mostafa H Baky
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy-Egyptian Russian University, Badr City, New Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Noha A E Yasin
- Cytology and Histology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt.
| | - Abeer Temraz
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy(Girls), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Walid H El-Tantawy
- National Organization for Drug Control and Research, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt.
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Hasan H, Bhushan S, Fijak M, Meinhardt A. Mechanism of Inflammatory Associated Impairment of Sperm Function, Spermatogenesis and Steroidogenesis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:897029. [PMID: 35574022 PMCID: PMC9096214 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.897029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection and inflammation are relevant entities of male reproductive disorders that can lead to sub-/infertility. Associated damage of the testis of affected men and in rodent models include leukocytic infiltration, edema formation, fibrosis, germ cell loss and reduced androgen levels. Negative effects on spermatogenesis are thought to be elicited by oxidative stress sustained mostly by increased levels of ROS and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Under normal conditions these cytokines have physiological functions. However, increased levels as seen in inflammation and infection, but also in obesity and cancer are harmful for germ cells and impair steroidogenesis. As a summary, there is mounting evidence that the activation of inflammatory pathways is a rather common feature in various forms of male testicular disorders that extends beyond established infectious/inflammatory cues. This mini review will focus on relevant entities and the mechanisms of how a dysbalance of local testicular factors contributes to disturbances of spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Monika Fijak
- *Correspondence: Andreas Meinhardt, ; Monika Fijak,
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Wopara I, Modo EU, Mobisson SK, Olusegun GA, Umoren EB, Orji BO, Mounmbegna PE, Ujunwa SO. Synthetic Food dyes cause testicular damage via up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and down-regulation of FSH-R and TESK-1 gene expression. JBRA Assist Reprod 2021; 25:341-348. [PMID: 33565293 PMCID: PMC8312291 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20200097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study investigated the effects of Tartrazine and Erythrosine (T+E) on the reproductive hormones and expression of some pro-inflammatory cytokines and testicular genes in testis of male Wistar rats. Methods: 25 male Wistar rats (150-180g) were divided into 5 groups (n=5). Group 1 received distilled water while groups 2, 3, 4 and 5 were treated with T+E (2.5mg/kg, 5mg/kg, 10mg/kg and 20mg/kg) for the period of 23 days. Toxicity studies of the combined dye were investigated by evaluating serum reproductive hormones [Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinizing hormone (LH), Testosterone], gene expression and profiling, and testes histology. Results: male Wistar rats (150-180g) were divided into 5 groups (n=5). Group 1 received distilled water while groups 2, 3, 4 and 5 were treated with T+E (2.5mg/kg, 5mg/kg, 10mg/kg and 20mg/kg) for the period of 23 days. Toxicity studies of the combined dye were investigated by evaluating serum reproductive hormones [Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinizing hormone (LH), Testosterone], gene expression and profiling, and testes histology. Conclusions: This present study reveals that the dyes could impair testicular function as evident in the up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and down-regulation of TESK-1 gene expression and architecture of the testes leading to Orchitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iheanyichukwu Wopara
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Nigeria
| | - Emmanuel U Modo
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Madonna University, Nigeria
| | - Samuel Kelechi Mobisson
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Madonna University, Nigeria
| | - G Adebayo Olusegun
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Nigeria
| | - E B Umoren
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Nigeria
| | - Blessing O Orji
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal university Dutsin-ma, Katsina State, Nigeria
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Frungieri MB, Calandra RS, Bartke A, Matzkin ME. Male and female gonadal ageing: its impact on health span and life span. Mech Ageing Dev 2021; 197:111519. [PMID: 34139215 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2021.111519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ageing is linked to changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and a progressive decline in gonadal function. While women become infertile when they enter menopause, fertility decline in ageing men does not necessarily involve a complete cessation of spermatogenesis. Gonadal dysfunction in elderly people is characterized by morphological, endocrine and metabolic alterations affecting the reproductive function and quality of life. With advancing age, sexuality turns into a critical emotional and physical factor actually defining the number of years that ageing people live a healthy life. Gonadal ageing correlates with comorbidities and an increased risk of age-related diseases including diabetes, kidney problems, cardiovascular failures and cancer. This article briefly summarizes the current state of knowledge on ovarian and testicular senescence, explores the experimental models used in the study of gonadal ageing, and describes the local pro-inflammatory, oxidative and apoptotic events and the associated signalling pathways that take place in the gonads while people get older. Overall, literature reports that ageing exacerbates a mutual crosstalk among oxidative stress, apoptosis and the inflammatory response in the gonads leading to detrimental effects on fertility. Data also highlight the clinical implications of novel therapeutic interventions using antioxidant, anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory drugs on health span and life span.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica B Frungieri
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1428ADN, Argentina; Cátedra de Química, Ciclo Básico Común, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1405CAE, Argentina.
| | - Ricardo S Calandra
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1428ADN, Argentina
| | - Andrzej Bartke
- Division of Geriatrics Research, Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University, School of Medicine, Springfield, IL 62702, USA
| | - María E Matzkin
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1428ADN, Argentina; Cátedra de Bioquímica Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina
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Yefimova MG, Ravel C, Rolland AD, Bourmeyster N, Jégou B. MERTK-Mediated LC3-Associated Phagocytosis (LAP) of Apoptotic Substrates in Blood-Separated Tissues: Retina, Testis, Ovarian Follicles. Cells 2021; 10:1443. [PMID: 34207717 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Timely and efficient elimination of apoptotic substrates, continuously produced during one’s lifespan, is a vital need for all tissues of the body. This task is achieved by cells endowed with phagocytic activity. In blood-separated tissues such as the retina, the testis and the ovaries, the resident cells of epithelial origin as retinal pigmented epithelial cells (RPE), testis Sertoli cells and ovarian granulosa cells (GC) provide phagocytic cleaning of apoptotic cells and cell membranes. Disruption of this process leads to functional ablation as blindness in the retina and compromised fertility in males and females. To ensure the efficient elimination of apoptotic substrates, RPE, Sertoli cells and GC combine various mechanisms allowing maintenance of tissue homeostasis and avoiding acute inflammation, tissue disorganization and functional ablation. In tight cooperation with other phagocytosis receptors, MERTK—a member of the TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK)—plays a pivotal role in apoptotic substrate cleaning from the retina, the testis and the ovaries through unconventional autophagy-assisted phagocytosis process LAP (LC3-associated phagocytosis). In this review, we focus on the interplay between TAM RTKs, autophagy-related proteins, LAP, and Toll-like receptors (TLR), as well as the regulatory mechanisms allowing these components to sustain tissue homeostasis and prevent functional ablation of the retina, the testis and the ovaries.
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Navaneethabalakrishnan S, Goodlett BL, Lopez AH, Rutkowski JM, Mitchell BM. Hypertension and reproductive dysfunction: a possible role of inflammation and inflammation-associated lymphangiogenesis in gonads. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:3237-57. [PMID: 33346358 DOI: 10.1042/CS20201023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Hypertension is one of the most prevalent diseases that leads to end organ damage especially affecting the heart, kidney, brain, and eyes. Numerous studies have evaluated the association between hypertension and impaired sexual health, in both men and women. The detrimental effects of hypertension in men includes erectile dysfunction, decrease in semen volume, sperm count and motility, and abnormal sperm morphology. Similarly, hypertensive females exhibit decreased vaginal lubrication, reduced orgasm, and several complications in pregnancy leading to fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality. The adverse effect of hypertension on male and female fertility is attributed to hormonal imbalance and changes in the gonadal vasculature. However, mechanistic studies investigating the impact of hypertension on gonads in more detail on a molecular basis remain scarce. Hence, the aim of the current review is to address and summarize the effects of hypertension on reproductive health, and highlight the importance of research on the effects of hypertension on gonadal inflammation and lymphatics.
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Solomon R, AbuMadighem A, Kapelushnik J, Amano BC, Lunenfeld E, Huleihel M. Involvement of Cytokines and Hormones in the Development of Spermatogenesis In Vitro from Spermatogonial Cells of Cyclophosphamide-Treated Immature Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1672. [PMID: 33562323 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aggressive chemotherapy treatment may lead to male infertility. Prepubertal boys do not produce sperm at this age, however, they have spermatogonial stem cells in their testes. Here, we examined the effect of intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide (CP) on the capacity of immature mice (IM) to develop spermatogenesis in vivo and in vitro [using methylcellulose culture system (MCS)]. Our results show a significant decrease in testicular weight, total number of testicular cells, and the number of Sertoli, peritubular, premeiotic, and meiotic/post-meiotic cells, but an increase in the percentages of damaged seminiferous tubules in CP-treated IM compared to control. The functionality of Sertoli cells was significantly affected. The addition of testosterone to isolated cells from seminiferous tubules of CP-treated IM significantly increased the percentages of premeiotic (CD9-positive cells) and meiotic/post-meiotic cells (ACROSIN-positive cells) developed in MCS compared to control. The addition of FSH did not affect developed cells in MCS compared to control, but in combination with testosterone, it significantly decreased the percentages of CD9-positive cells and ACROSIN-positive cells. The addition of IL-1 did not affect developed cells in MCS compared to control, but in combination with testosterone, it significantly increased the percentages of VASA-positive cells and BOULE-positive cells compared to IL-1 or testosterone. Addition of TNF significantly increased only CD9-positive cells in MCS compared to control, but in combination with testosterone, it significantly decreased ACROSIN-positive cells compared to testosterone. Our results show a significant impairment of spermatogenesis in the testes of CP-treated IM, and that spermatogonial cells from these mice proliferate and differentiate to meiotic/post-meiotic cells under in vitro culture conditions.
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13
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Gualdoni GS, Jacobo PV, Sobarzo CM, Pérez CV, Durand LAH, Theas MS, Lustig L, Guazzone VA. Relevance of angiogenesis in autoimmune testis inflammation. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaaa073. [PMID: 33313783 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is a useful model to study organ-specific autoimmunity and chronic testicular inflammation. This model reflects testicular pathological changes reported in immunological infertility in men. Progression of EAO in rodents is associated with a significantly increased percentage of testicular endothelial cells and interstitial testicular blood vessels, indicating an ongoing angiogenic process. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), the main regulator of physiological and pathological angiogenesis, can stimulate endothelial cell proliferation, chemotaxis and vascular permeability. The aim of this study was to explore the role of VEGFA in the pathogenesis of testicular inflammation. Our results found VEGFA expression in Leydig cells, endothelial cells and macrophages in testis of rats with autoimmune orchitis. VEGFA level was significantly higher in testicular fluid and serum of rats at the end of the immunization period, preceding testicular damage. VEGF receptor (VEGFR) 1 is expressed mainly in testicular endothelial cells, whereas VEGFR2 was detected in germ cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. Both receptors were expressed in testicular interstitial cells. VEGFR2 increased after the immunization period in the testicular interstitium and VEGFR1 was downregulated in EAO testis. In-vivo-specific VEGFA inhibition by Bevacizumab prevented the increase in blood vessel number and reduced EAO incidence and severity. Our results unveil relevance of VEGFA-VEGFR axis during orchitis development, suggesting that VEGFA might be an early marker of testicular inflammation and Bevacizumab a therapeutic tool for treatment of testicular inflammation associated with subfertility and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Soledad Gualdoni
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Patricia Verónica Jacobo
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Cristian Marcelo Sobarzo
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Valeria Pérez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Luis Alberto Haro Durand
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1428ADN, Argentina
| | - María Susana Theas
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Livia Lustig
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Vanesa Anabella Guazzone
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
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Farouk SM, Gad FAM, Emam MA. Comparative immuno-modulatory effects of basil and sesame seed oils against diazinon-induced toxicity in rats; a focus on TNF-α immunolocalization. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2021; 28:5332-5346. [PMID: 32964385 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10840-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Diazinon (DZN), a common organophosphorus insecticide (OPI), has hazardous effect to human and animals with its ubiquitous use. Considering the implication of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the OPIs toxicity, the present study was aimed to evaluate the ameliorative properties of basil (BO) and sesame (SO) seed oils against the toxic effect of DZN. Forty adult male albino rats were divided into four experimental groups (n = 10 rats/group); control, DZN (10 mg/kg b.w/day), DZN + BO (5 ml/kg b.w/day), and DZN + SO (8 ml/kg b.w/day) groups, treated for a period of 4 weeks. DZN-exposed animals showed significant elevation in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine (Cr) with a significant decline in testosterone level compared with control. On the other hand, DZN + BO and DZN + SO groups revealed significant decreases in ALT, AST, BUN, and Cr with a significant increase in testosterone level when compared with DZN-exposed animals. Oxidative/antioxidant indices revealed significant increases of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels along with significant decreases of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), and catalase (CAT) activities among DZN-treated rats compared with control. Distinctly lower levels of MDA and increased activities of SOD, Gpx, and CAT were evident in both DZN + BO and DZN + SO groups when compared with DZN-exposed animals. Inflammatory and immuno-modulatory markers assessment showed a significant increase in TNF-α with a significant decline in IL-10 level in DZN group; meanwhile, both DZN + BO and DZN + SO groups revealed significant declines in levels of TNF-α with significant increases in IL-10. Corresponds immunohistochemistry, the total scores (TS) of TNF-α immunostainings in hepatorenal, testicular, and epididymal tissues of control, DZN + BO and DZN + SO groups were significantly lower than those values of DZN group. Additionally, the examined tissues of DZN + BO group revealed significant lower TS of TNF-α immunostaining compared with DZN + SO group. The overall data suggested that both BO and SO can be efficiently used as preventive herbal compounds against DZN-induced oxidative stress with special reference to their possible antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and free radical activities. However, BO has more potent protective effect against DZN-induced tissue injury at both immunohistochemical and molecular levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh Mohamed Farouk
- Cytology and Histology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt.
| | - Fatma Abdel-Monem Gad
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Banha, 13736, Egypt
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Di Persio S, Starace D, Capponi C, Saracino R, Fera S, Filippini A, Vicini E. TNF-α inhibits GDNF levels in Sertoli cells, through a NF-κB-dependent, HES1-dependent mechanism. Andrology 2021; 9:956-964. [PMID: 33314792 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a soluble molecule crucial for the regulation of the spermatogonial stem cells (SSC) of the testis. The effects of GDNF on target cells have been extensively described, but mechanisms underlying GDNF regulation are currently under investigation. In the nervous system, GDNF expression is regulated by pro-inflammatory cytokines including lipopolysaccharide (LPS), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) but the effect of these cytokines on GDNF expression in the testis is unclear. OBJECTIVES The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of TNF-α on GDNF expression levels using primary murine Sertoli cells as experimental model. MATERIAL AND METHODS The expression of TNF-α-regulated genes including Gdnf in different culture conditions was determined by real-time PCR. GDNF protein levels were determined by ELISA. The activation of the NF-κb pathway and HES1 levels were assessed by Western Blot analysis and immunofluorescence. HES1 expression was downregulated by RNAi. RESULTS In primary Sertoli cells, TNF-α downregulates GDNF levels through a nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)-dependent mechanism. Mechanistically, TNF-α induces the transcriptional repressor HES1 by a NF-Κb-dependent mechanism, which in turn downregulates GDNF. DISCUSSION Under physiological conditions, TNF-α is secreted by germ cells suggesting that this cytokine plays a role in the paracrine control of SSC niche by modulating GDNF levels. HES1, a well-known target of the Notch pathway, is implicated in the regulation of GDNF expression. In Sertoli cells, TNF-α and Notch signaling may converge at molecular level, to regulate the expression of HES1 and HES1- target genes, including GDNF. CONCLUSIONS Because of the importance of GDNF for spermatogonial stem cell self-renewal and proliferation, this data may give important insights on how cytokine signals in the testis modulate the expression of niche-derived factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Di Persio
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Starace
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Capponi
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossana Saracino
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Fera
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Filippini
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Vicini
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Noguchi J, Kaneko H, Ikeda M, Kikuchi K, Dang‐Nguyen TQ, Furusawa T. Sperm immunization and rat spermatogenesis: Dysfunctional blood‐testis barrier and perturbed Sertoli cell cytoskeleton. Andrology 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Junko Noguchi
- Reproductive Biology Unit Division of Animal Sciences Institute of Agrobiological SciencesNARO Tsukuba Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kaneko
- Reproductive Biology Unit Division of Animal Sciences Institute of Agrobiological SciencesNARO Tsukuba Japan
| | - Mitsumi Ikeda
- Animal Biotechnology Unit Division of Animal Sciences Institute of Agrobiological SciencesNARO Tsukuba Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Kikuchi
- Reproductive Biology Unit Division of Animal Sciences Institute of Agrobiological SciencesNARO Tsukuba Japan
| | - Thanh Quang Dang‐Nguyen
- Reproductive Biology Unit Division of Animal Sciences Institute of Agrobiological SciencesNARO Tsukuba Japan
| | - Tadashi Furusawa
- Animal Biotechnology Unit Division of Animal Sciences Institute of Agrobiological SciencesNARO Tsukuba Japan
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17
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Lustig L, Guazzone VA, Theas MS, Pleuger C, Jacobo P, Pérez CV, Meinhardt A, Fijak M. Pathomechanisms of Autoimmune Based Testicular Inflammation. Front Immunol 2020; 11:583135. [PMID: 33101310 PMCID: PMC7546798 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.583135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection and inflammation of the male reproductive tract are relevant causes of infertility. Inflammatory damage occurs in the special immunosuppressive microenvironment of the testis, a hallmark termed testicular immune privilege, which allows tolerance to neo-antigens from developing germ cells appearing at puberty, long after the establishment of systemic immune tolerance. Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is a well-established rodent model of chronic testicular inflammation and organ specific autoimmunity that offers a valuable in vivo tool to investigate the pathological and molecular mechanisms leading to the breakdown of the testicular immune privilege. The disease is characterized by the infiltration of the interstitium by immune cells (mainly macrophages, dendritic cells, and T cells), formation of autoantibodies against testicular antigens, production of pro-inflammatory mediators such as NO, MCP1, TNFα, IL6, or activins and dysregulation of steroidogenesis with reduced levels of serum testosterone. EAO leads to sloughing of germ cells, atrophic seminiferous tubules and fibrotic remodeling, parameters all found similarly to changes in human biopsies from infertile patients with inflammatory infiltrates. Interestingly, testosterone supplementation during the course of EAO leads to expansion of the regulatory T cell population and inhibition of disease development. Knowledge of EAO pathogenesis aims to contribute to a better understanding of human testicular autoimmune disease as an essential prerequisite for improved diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia Lustig
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tècnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vanesa A Guazzone
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tècnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María S Theas
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tècnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Christiane Pleuger
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Patricia Jacobo
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tècnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cecilia V Pérez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tècnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Monika Fijak
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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18
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Li X, Zhang F, Wu N, Ye D, Wang Y, Zhang X, Sun Y, Zhang YA. A critical role of foxp3a-positive regulatory T cells in maintaining immune homeostasis in zebrafish testis development. J Genet Genomics 2020; 47:547-561. [PMID: 33309050 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2020.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Suppressive regulatory T cells (Treg cells) play a vital role in preventing autoimmunity and restraining excessive immune response to both self- and non-self-antigens. Studies on humans and mice show that the Forkhead box p3 (Foxp3) is a key regulatory gene for the development and function of Treg cells. In zebrafish, Treg cells have been identified by using foxp3a as a reliable marker. However, little is known about the function of foxp3a and Treg cells in gonadal development and sex differentiation. Here, we show that foxp3a is essential for maintaining immune homeostasis in zebrafish testis development. We found that foxp3a was specifically expressed in a subset of T cells in zebrafish testis, while knockout of foxp3a led to deficiency of foxp3a-positive Treg cells in the testis. More than 80% of foxp3a-/- mutants developed as subfertile males, and the rest of the mutants developed as fertile females with decreased ovulation. Further study revealed that foxp3a-/- mutants had a delayed juvenile ovary-to-testis transition in definite males and sex reversal in about half of the definite females, which led to a dominance of later male development. Owing to the absence of foxp3a-positive Treg cells in the differentiating testis of foxp3a-/- mutants, abundant T cells and macrophages expand to disrupt an immunosuppressive milieu, resulting in defective development of germ cells and gonadal somatic cells and leading to development of infertile males. Therefore, our study reveals that foxp3a-positive Treg cells play an essential role in the orchestration of gonadal development and sex differentiation in zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianmei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Fenghua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Nan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Ding Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Yaqing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiaofan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yonghua Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Yong-An Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266071, China; State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
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19
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Gong M, Wang F, Liu W, Chen R, Wu H, Zhang W, Yu X, Han R, Liu A, Chen Y, Han D. Pattern recognition receptor-mediated innate immune responses in seminal vesicle epithelial cell and their impacts on cellular function†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:733-747. [PMID: 31350848 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The seminal vesicles can be infected by microorganisms, thereby resulting in vesiculitis and impairment in male fertility. Innate immune responses in seminal vesicles cells to microbial infections, which facilitate vesiculitis, have yet to be investigated. The present study aims to elucidate pattern recognition receptor-mediated innate immune responses in seminal vesicles epithelial cells. Various pattern recognition receptors, including Toll-like receptor 3, Toll-like receptor 4, cytosolic ribonucleic acid, and deoxyribonucleic acid sensors, are abundantly expressed in seminal vesicles epithelial cells. These pattern recognition receptors can recognize their respective ligands, thus activating nuclear factor kappa B and interferon regulatory factor 3. The pattern recognition receptor signaling induces expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (Tnfa) and interleukin 6 (Il6), chemokines monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (Mcp1) and C-X-C motif chemokine 10 (Cxcl10), and type 1 interferons Ifna and Ifnb. Moreover, pattern recognition receptor-mediated innate immune responses up-regulated the expression of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase and cyclooxygenase 2, but they down-regulated semenogelin-1 expression. These results provide novel insights into the mechanism underlying vesiculitis and its impact on the functions of the seminal vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maolei Gong
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Weihua Liu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ran Chen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Han Wu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjing Zhang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoqin Yu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ruiqin Han
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Aijie Liu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yongmei Chen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Daishu Han
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Zhang J, Kong DL, Xiao B, Yuan HJ, Kong QQ, Han X, Luo MJ, Tan JH. Restraint stress of male mice triggers apoptosis in spermatozoa and spermatogenic cells via activating the TNF-α system. ZYGOTE 2020; 28:1-10. [PMID: 31933449 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199419000844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Studies have indicated that psychological stress impairs human fertility and that various stressors can induce apoptosis of testicular cells. However, the mechanisms by which psychological stress on males reduces semen quality and stressors induce apoptosis in testicular cells are largely unclear. Using a psychological (restraint) stress mouse model, we tested whether male psychological stress triggers apoptosis of spermatozoa and spermatogenic cells through activating tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α signalling. Wild-type or TNF-α-/- male mice were restrained for 48 h before examination for apoptosis and expression of TNF-α and TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1) in spermatozoa, epididymis, seminiferous tubules and spermatogenic cells. The results showed that male restraint significantly decreased fertilization rate and mitochondrial membrane potential, while increasing levels of malondialdehyde, active caspase-3, TNF-α and TNFR1 in spermatozoa. Male restraint also increased apoptosis and expression of TNF-α and TNFR1 in caudae epididymides, seminiferous tubules and spermatogenic cells. Sperm quality was also significantly impaired when spermatozoa were recovered 35 days after male restraint. The restraint-induced damage to spermatozoa, epididymis and seminiferous tubules was significantly ameliorated in TNF-α-/- mice. Furthermore, incubation with soluble TNF-α significantly reduced sperm motility and fertilizing potential. Taken together, the results demonstrated that male psychological stress induces apoptosis in spermatozoa and spermatogenic cells through activating the TNF-α system and that the stress-induced apoptosis in spermatogenic cells can be translated into impaired quality in future spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City271018, People's Republic of China
| | - De-Ling Kong
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Xiao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-Jie Yuan
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiao-Qiao Kong
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Han
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Jiu Luo
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-He Tan
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City271018, People's Republic of China
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21
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Ferreiro ME, Amarilla MS, Glienke L, Méndez CS, González C, Jacobo PV, Sobarzo CM, De Laurentiis A, Ferraris MJ, Theas MS. The inflammatory mediators TNFα and nitric oxide arrest spermatogonia GC-1 cell cycle. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:329-339. [PMID: 31757605 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
During an inflammatory process of the testis, the network of somatic, immune, and germ cell interactions is altered leading to organ dysfunction. In testicular biopsies of infertile men, spermatogenesis impairment is associated with reduced spermatogonia proliferation, increased number of immune cells, and content of pro-inflammatory cytokines. TNFα-TNFR and nitric oxide (NO)-NO synthase systems are up-regulated in models of testicular damage and in human testis with maturation arrest. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that TNFα-TNFR system and NO alter the function of spermatogonia in the inflamed testis. We studied the effect of TNFα and NO on GC-1 spermatogonia cell cycle progression and death by flow cytometry. GC-1 cells expressed TNFR1 and TNFR2 (immunofluorescence). TNFα (10 and 50 ng/ml) and DETA-Nonoate (0.5 and 2 mM), a NO releaser, increased the percentage of cells in S-phase of the cell cycle and reduced the percentage in G1, inducing also cell apoptosis. TNFα effect was not mediated by oxidative stress unlike NO, since the presence of N-acetyl-l-cysteine (2.5 and 5.0 mM) prevented NO induced cell cycle arrest and death. GC-1 spermatogonia overpass NO induced cell cycle arrest but no TNFα, since after removal of NO, spermatogonia progressed through the cell cycle. We propose TNFα and NO might contribute to impairment of spermatogenesis by preventing adequate functioning of the spermatogonia population. Our results showed that TNFα and NO impaired spermatogonia cell cycle, inducing GC-1 arrest in the S phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Eugenia Ferreiro
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Cátedra II de Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Sofía Amarilla
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Cátedra II de Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leilane Glienke
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Cátedra II de Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cinthia Soledad Méndez
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Cátedra II de Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Candela González
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnósticos (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Patricia Verónica Jacobo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Cátedra II de Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cristian Marcelo Sobarzo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Cátedra II de Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrea De Laurentiis
- Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO) CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Jimena Ferraris
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Cátedra II de Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Susana Theas
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Cátedra II de Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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22
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Guazzone VA. Exploring the role of antigen presenting cells in male genital tract. Andrologia 2018; 50:e13120. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa A. Guazzone
- Universidad de Buenos Aires; Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II.; Buenos Aires Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad de Buenos Aires; Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED); Buenos Aires Argentina
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23
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Theas MS. Germ cell apoptosis and survival in testicular inflammation. Andrologia 2018; 50:e13083. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 05/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- María Susana Theas
- Cátedra II de Histología, Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina; Universidad de Buenos Aires; Buenos Aires Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED); CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires; Buenos Aires Argentina
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Wang F, Liu W, Jiang Q, Gong M, Chen R, Wu H, Han R, Chen Y, Han D. Lipopolysaccharide-induced testicular dysfunction and epididymitis in mice: a critical role of tumor necrosis factor alpha†. Biol Reprod 2018; 100:849-861. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Weihua Liu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Jiang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Maolei Gong
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ran Chen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Han Wu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-product Safety, Institute of Epigenetics & Epigenomics, College of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ruiqin Han
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yongmei Chen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Daishu Han
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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25
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Fijak M, Pilatz A, Hedger MP, Nicolas N, Bhushan S, Michel V, Tung KSK, Schuppe HC, Meinhardt A. Infectious, inflammatory and 'autoimmune' male factor infertility: how do rodent models inform clinical practice? Hum Reprod Update 2018; 24:416-441. [PMID: 29648649 PMCID: PMC6016649 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infection and inflammation of the reproductive tract are significant causes of male factor infertility. Ascending infections caused by sexually transmitted bacteria or urinary tract pathogens represent the most frequent aetiology of epididymo-orchitis, but viral, haematogenous dissemination is also a contributory factor. Limitations in adequate diagnosis and therapy reflect an obvious need for further understanding of human epididymal and testicular immunopathologies and their contribution to infertility. A major obstacle for advancing our knowledge is the limited access to suitable tissue samples. Similarly, the key events in the inflammatory or autoimmune pathologies affecting human male fertility are poorly amenable to close examination. Moreover, the disease processes generally have occurred long before the patient attends the clinic for fertility assessment. In this regard, data obtained from experimental animal models and respective comparative analyses have shown promise to overcome these restrictions in humans. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This narrative review will focus on male fertility disturbances caused by infection and inflammation, and the usefulness of the most frequently applied animal models to study these conditions. SEARCH METHODS An extensive search in Medline database was performed without restrictions until January 2018 using the following search terms: 'infection' and/or 'inflammation' and 'testis' and/or 'epididymis', 'infection' and/or 'inflammation' and 'male genital tract', 'male infertility', 'orchitis', 'epididymitis', 'experimental autoimmune' and 'orchitis' or 'epididymitis' or 'epididymo-orchitis', antisperm antibodies', 'vasectomy'. In addition to that, reference lists of primary and review articles were reviewed for additional publications independently by each author. Selected articles were verified by each two separate authors and discrepancies discussed within the team. OUTCOMES There is clear evidence that models mimicking testicular and/or epididymal inflammation and infection have been instructive in a better understanding of the mechanisms of disease initiation and progression. In this regard, rodent models of acute bacterial epididymitis best reflect the clinical situation in terms of mimicking the infection pathway, pathogens selected and the damage, such as fibrotic transformation, observed. Similarly, animal models of acute testicular and epididymal inflammation using lipopolysaccharides show impairment of reproduction, endocrine function and histological tissue architecture, also seen in men. Autoimmune responses can be studied in models of experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) and vasectomy. In particular, the early stages of EAO development showing inflammatory responses in the form of peritubular lymphocytic infiltrates, thickening of the lamina propria of affected tubules, production of autoantibodies against testicular antigens or secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators, replicate observations in testicular sperm extraction samples of patients with 'mixed atrophy' of spermatogenesis. Vasectomy, in the form of sperm antibodies and chronic inflammation, can also be studied in animal models, providing valuable insights into the human response. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This is the first comprehensive review of rodent models of both infectious and autoimmune disease of testis/epididymis, and their clinical implications, i.e. their importance in understanding male infertility related to infectious and non-infectious/autoimmune disease of the reproductive organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Fijak
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Aulweg 123, Giessen, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Clinic of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Germany
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nour Nicolas
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Aulweg 123, Giessen, Germany
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Aulweg 123, Giessen, Germany
| | - Vera Michel
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Aulweg 123, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kenneth S K Tung
- Departments of Pathology and Microbiology, Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, 345 Crispell Drive, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Hans-Christian Schuppe
- Clinic of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Aulweg 123, Giessen, Germany
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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26
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Loveland KL, Klein B, Pueschl D, Indumathy S, Bergmann M, Loveland BE, Hedger MP, Schuppe HC. Cytokines in Male Fertility and Reproductive Pathologies: Immunoregulation and Beyond. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:307. [PMID: 29250030 PMCID: PMC5715375 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Germline development in vivo is dependent on the environment formed by somatic cells and the differentiation cues they provide; hence, the impact of local factors is highly relevant to the production of sperm. Knowledge of how somatic and germline cells interact is central to achieving biomedical goals relating to restoring, preserving or restricting fertility in humans. This review discusses the growing understanding of how cytokines contribute to testicular function and maintenance of male reproductive health, and to the pathologies associated with their abnormal activity in this organ. Here we consider both cytokines that signal through JAKs and are regulated by SOCS, and those utilizing other pathways, such as the MAP kinases and SMADs. The importance of cytokines in the establishment and maintenance of the testis as an immune-privilege site are described. Current research relating to the involvement of immune cells in testis development and disease is highlighted. This includes new data relating to testicular cancer which reinforce the understanding that tumorigenic cells shape their microenvironment through cytokine actions. Clinical implications in pathologies relating to local inflammation and to immunotherapies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate L. Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kate L. Loveland,
| | - Britta Klein
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Dana Pueschl
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sivanjah Indumathy
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Martin Bergmann
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Mark P. Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Hans-Christian Schuppe
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Al-Maghrebi M, Renno WM, Al-Somali HF, Botras MS, Qadhi IN. Lutein modulates transcription dysregulation of adhesion molecules and spermatogenesis transcription factors induced by testicular ischemia reperfusion injury: it could be SAFE. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2016; 389:539-51. [DOI: 10.1007/s00210-016-1223-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Sadasivam M, Ramatchandirin B, Balakrishnan S, Prahalathan C. TNF-α-mediated suppression of Leydig cell steroidogenesis involves DAX-1. Inflamm Res 2015; 64:549-56. [DOI: 10.1007/s00011-015-0835-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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Inoue T, Aoyama-Ishikawa M, Kamoshida S, Nishino S, Sasano M, Oka N, Yamashita H, Kai M, Nakao A, Kotani J, Usami M. Endogenous interleukin 18 regulates testicular germ cell apoptosis during endotoxemia. Reproduction 2015; 150:105-14. [PMID: 25934945 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Orchitis (testicular swelling) often occurs during systemic inflammatory conditions, such as sepsis. Interleukin 18 (IL18) is a proinflammatory cytokine and is an apoptotic mediator during endotoxemia, but the role of IL18 in response to inflammation in the testes was unclear. WT and IL18 knockout (KO) mice were injected lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce endotoxemia and examined 12 and 48 h after LPS administration to model the acute and recovery phases of endotoxemia. Caspase activation was assessed using immunohistochemistry. Protein and mRNA expression were examined by western blot and quantitative real-time RT-PCR respectively. During the acute phase of endotoxemia, apoptosis (as indicated by caspase-3 cleavage) was increased in WT mice but not in IL18 KO mice. The death receptor-mediated and mitochondrial-mediated apoptotic pathways were both activated in the WT mice but not in the KO mice. During the recovery phase of endotoxemia, apoptosis was observed in the IL18 KO mice but not in the WT mice. Activation of the death-receptor mediated apoptotic pathway could be seen in the IL18 KO mice but not the WT mice. These results suggested that endogenous IL18 induces germ cell apoptosis via death receptor mediated- and mitochondrial-mediated pathways during the acute phase of endotoxemia and suppresses germ cell apoptosis via death-receptor mediated pathways during recovery from endotoxemia. Taken together, IL18 could be a new therapeutic target to prevent orchitis during endotoxemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taketo Inoue
- Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan
| | - Michiko Aoyama-Ishikawa
- Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan
| | - Shingo Kamoshida
- Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nishino
- Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan
| | - Maki Sasano
- Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan
| | - Nobuki Oka
- Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan
| | - Hayato Yamashita
- Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan
| | - Motoki Kai
- Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan
| | - Atsunori Nakao
- Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan
| | - Joji Kotani
- Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan
| | - Makoto Usami
- Department of BiophysicsKobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe, 654-0142 Hyogo, JapanOno Ladies Clinic538-3, Nishihonmachi, Ono, 675-1375 Hyogo, JapanDepartment of EmergencyDisaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, 663-8501 Hyogo, Japan
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Sadasivam M, Ramatchandirin B, Balakrishnan S, Prahalathan C. HDAC7 modulates TNF-α-mediated suppression of Leydig cell steroidogenesis. Mol Cell Biochem 2015; 406:83-90. [DOI: 10.1007/s11010-015-2426-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Li N, Liu Z, Zhang Y, Chen Q, Liu P, Cheng CY, Lee WM, Chen Y, Han D. Mice lacking Axl and Mer tyrosine kinase receptors are susceptible to experimental autoimmune orchitis induction. Immunol Cell Biol 2015; 93:311-20. [PMID: 25403570 DOI: 10.1038/icb.2014.97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Revised: 10/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian testis is an immunoprivileged organ where male germ cell autoantigens are immunologically ignored. Both systemic immune tolerance to autoantigens and local immunosuppressive milieu contribute to the testicular immune privilege. Testicular immunosuppression has been intensively studied, but information on systemic immune tolerance to autoantigens is lacking. In the present study, we aimed to determine the role of Axl and Mer receptor tyrosine kinases in maintaining the systemic tolerance to male germ cell antigens using the experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) model. Axl and Mer double-knockout (Axl(-/-)Mer(-/-)) mice developed evident EAO after a single immunization with germ cell homogenates emulsified with complete Freund's adjuvant. EAO was characterized by the accumulation of macrophages and T lymphocytes in the testis. Damage to the seminiferous epithelium was also observed. EAO induction was associated with pro-inflammatory cytokine upregulation in the testes, impaired permeability of the blood-testis barrier and generation of autoantibodies against germ cell antigens in Axl(-/-)Mer(-/-) mice. Immunization also induced mild EAO in Axl or Mer single-gene-knockout mice. By contrast, a single immunization failed to induce EAO in wild-type mice. The results indicate that Axl and Mer receptors cooperatively regulate the systemic immune tolerance to male germ cell antigens.
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Redgrove KA, McLaughlin EA. The Role of the Immune Response in Chlamydia trachomatis Infection of the Male Genital Tract: A Double-Edged Sword. Front Immunol 2014; 5:534. [PMID: 25386180 PMCID: PMC4209867 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is the most prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the world, with more than 100 million cases reported annually. While there have been extensive studies into the adverse effects that CT infection has on the female genital tract, and on the subsequent ability of these women to conceive, studies into the consequences on male fertility have been limited and controversial. This is in part due to the asymptomatic nature of the infection, where it is estimated that 50% of men with Chlamydia fail to show any symptoms. It is accepted, however, that acute and/or persistent CT infection is the causative agent for conditions such as urethritis, epididymitis, epididymo-orchitis, and potentially prostatitis. As with most infections, the immune system plays a fundamental role in the body’s attempts to eradicate the infection. The first and most important immune response to Chlamydia infection is a local one, whereby immune cells such as leukocytes are recruited to the site of infections, and subsequently secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines such as interferon gamma. Immune cells also work to initiate and potentiate chronic inflammation through the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the release of molecules with degradative properties including defensins, elastase, collagenase, cathespins, and lysozyme. This long-term inflammation can lead to cell proliferation (a possible precursor to cancer), tissue remodeling, and scarring, as well as being linked to the onset of autoimmune responses in genetically disposed individuals. This review will focus on the ability of the immune system to recognize and clear acute and persistent chlamydial infections in the male genital tract, and on the paradoxical damage that chronic inflammation resulting from the infection can cause on the reproductive health of the individual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate A Redgrove
- Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Biology and Chemical Biology, University of Newcastle , Callaghan, NSW , Australia ; School of Environmental and Life Science, University of Newcastle , Callaghan, NSW , Australia
| | - Eileen A McLaughlin
- Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Biology and Chemical Biology, University of Newcastle , Callaghan, NSW , Australia ; School of Environmental and Life Science, University of Newcastle , Callaghan, NSW , Australia
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Pérez CV, Theas MS, Jacobo PV, Jarazo-Dietrich S, Guazzone VA, Lustig L. Dual role of immune cells in the testis: Protective or pathogenic for germ cells? Spermatogenesis 2014; 3:e23870. [PMID: 23687616 PMCID: PMC3644047 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.23870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to describe how the immune cells present in the testis interact with the germinal epithelium contributing to survival or apoptosis of germ cells (GCs). Physiologically, the immunosuppressor testicular microenvironment protects GCs from immune attack, whereas in inflammatory conditions, tolerance is disrupted and immune cells and their mediators respond to GC self antigens, inducing damage of the germinal epithelium. Considering that experimental models of autoimmune orchitis have clarified the local immune mechanisms by which protection of the testis is compromised, we described the following topics in the testis of normal and orchitic rats: (1) cell adhesion molecule expression of seminiferous tubule specialized junctions and modulation of blood-testis barrier permeability by cytokines (2) phenotypic and functional characteristics of testicular dendritic cells, macrophages, effector and regulatory T cells and mast cells and (3) effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and FasL) and the nitric oxide-nitric oxide synthase system on GC apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia V Pérez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas; UBA/CONICET; Facultad de Medicina; Universidad de Buenos Aires; Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Pérez CV, Pellizzari EH, Cigorraga SB, Galardo MN, Naito M, Lustig L, Jacobo PV. IL17A impairs blood-testis barrier integrity and induces testicular inflammation. Cell Tissue Res 2014; 358:885-98. [PMID: 25231257 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-014-1995-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune orchitis is a useful model for studying testicular inflammation and germ/immune cell interactions. Th17 cells and their hallmark cytokine IL17A were reported to be involved in the development of autoimmune orchitis. The aim of the present work is to investigate the pathogenic role of IL17A in rat testis. In vitro experiments were performed in order to analyze effects of IL17A on Sertoli cell tight junctions. The addition of IL17A to normal rat Sertoli cell cultures induced a significant decline in transepithelial electrical resistance and a reduction of occludin expression and redistribution of occludin and claudin 11, altering the Sertoli cell tight junction barrier. Intratesticular injection of 1 μg of recombinant rat IL17A to Sprague-Dawley rats induced increased blood-testis barrier permeability, as shown by the presence of biotin tracer in the seminiferous tubule adluminal compartment, and delocalization of occludin and claudin 11. Results showed that IL17A induced focal inflammatory cell infiltration in the interstitium and germ cell sloughing in adjacent seminiferous tubules. Moreover, an increase in TUNEL+ apoptotic germ cells was also observed. Inflammatory ED1+ macrophages were the main population infiltrating the interstitium following IL17A injection. This correlated with an increase in mRNA expression of the monocyte chemoattractant protein Ccl2, its receptor Ccr2 and the vascular cell adhesion molecule Vcam1. Overall results suggest a relevant role of IL17A in the development of testicular inflammation, facilitating the recruitment of immune cells to the testicular interstitium and inducing impairment of blood-testis barrier function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Valeria Pérez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina,
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Jacobo P, Guazzone VA, Pérez CV, Lustig L. CD4+ Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in autoimmune orchitis: phenotypic and functional characterization. Am J Reprod Immunol 2014; 73:109-25. [PMID: 25164316 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM The phenotype and function of regulatory T (Treg) cells in rats with experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) was evaluated. METHOD OF STUDY Distribution of Treg cells in draining lymph nodes from the testis (TLN) and from the site of immunization (ILN) was analysed by immunohistochemistry. The number, phenotype and proliferative response (5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation) of Treg cells were evaluated by flow cytometry and Treg cell suppressive activity by in vitro experiments. TGF-β expression was evaluated by immunofluorescence. RESULTS Absolute numbers of Treg cells and BrdU+ Treg cells were increased in LN from experimental compared to normal and control rats. These cells displayed a CD45RC(-), CD62L(-), Helios(+) phenotype. CD4(+) CD25(bright) T cells from TLN of experimental rats were able to suppress T cell-proliferation more efficiently than those derived from normal and control rats. Cells isolated from TLN and ILN expressed TGF-β. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that Treg cells with a memory/activated phenotype proliferate extensively in the inflamed testis and LN of rats with EAO exhibiting an enhanced suppressive capacity. TGF-β may be involved in their suppressive mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Jacobo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Chakraborty S, Gang S, Sengupta M. Functional status of testicular macrophages in an immunopriviledged niche in cadmium intoxicated murine testes. Am J Reprod Immunol 2014; 72:14-21. [PMID: 24629031 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM The present study investigates the extent of immunomodulatory effects associated with semenological alterations in the testes, after exposure to cadmium (in vivo) in male Swiss albino mice. Despite residing in an immunopriviledged site, testicular macrophages have immunogenic functions. METHODS OF STUDY Experimental animals were divided into two groups: (i) control (isotonic saline) and (ii) treated (0.35 mg/kg b.w of cadmium chloride) intraperitoneally for 15 days. Murine testicular macrophages were isolated and the cell function studies such as morphological alteration and tumor-necrosis factor (TNF-α) release assay were performed. Among the semenological parameters, sperm count, sperm motility, sperm morphology and the testosterone levels in the epididymal semen samples from both groups were determined. RESULTS The present work shows that cadmium is responsible for a significant alteration, degenerative changes and reduced cell function in testicular macrophages probably by increasing oxidative damage. Such oxidative stress also causes a parallel dysfunction of the semenological parameters. CONCLUSION TNF-α which is probably unable to bind with the surface receptor in testicular macrophages as because of altered structural morphology with reduction of cell function, render the animals more prone to infection and ultimately causes subfertility.
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Winnall WR, Hedger MP. Phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of the testicular macrophage population: a new regulatory model. J Reprod Immunol 2013; 97:147-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2013.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2012] [Revised: 01/12/2013] [Accepted: 01/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Pérez CV, Sobarzo CM, Jacobo PV, Pellizzari EH, Cigorraga SB, Denduchis B, Lustig L. Loss of occludin expression and impairment of blood-testis barrier permeability in rats with autoimmune orchitis: effect of interleukin 6 on Sertoli cell tight junctions. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:122. [PMID: 23018187 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.101709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation of the male reproductive tract is accepted as being an important etiological factor of infertility. Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is characterized by interstitial lymphomononuclear cell infiltration and severe damage of seminiferous tubules with germ cells that undergo apoptosis and sloughing. Because the blood-testis barrier (BTB) is relevant for the protection of haploid germ cells against immune attack, the aim of this study was to analyze BTB permeability and the expression of tight junction proteins (occludin, claudin 11, and tight junction protein 1 [TJP1]) in rats during development of autoimmune orchitis. The role of IL6 as modulator of tight junction dynamics was also evaluated because intratesticular content of this cytokine is increased in EAO rats. Orchitis was induced in Sprague-Dawley adult rats by active immunization with testicular homogenate and adjuvants. Control rats (C) were injected with saline solution and adjuvants. Untreated (N) rats were also studied. Concomitant with early signs of germ cell sloughing, a reduced expression of occludin and delocalization of claudin 11 and TJP1 were detected in the testes of rats with EAO compared to C and N groups. The use of tracers showed increased BTB permeability in EAO rats. Intratesticular injection of IL6 induced focal testicular inflammation, which is associated with damaged seminiferous tubules. Rat Sertoli cells cultured in the presence of IL6 exhibited a redistribution of tight junction proteins and reduced transepithelial electrical resistance. These data indicate the possibility that IL6 might be involved in the downregulation of occludin expression and in the modulation of BTB permeability that occur in rats undergoing autoimmune orchitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Valeria Pérez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Guazzone VA, Jacobo P, Denduchis B, Lustig L. Expression of cell adhesion molecules, chemokines and chemokine receptors involved in leukocyte traffic in rats undergoing autoimmune orchitis. Reproduction 2012; 143:651-62. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-11-0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The testis is considered an immunologically privileged site where germ cell antigens are protected from autoimmune attack. Yet in response to infections, inflammatory diseases, or trauma, there is an influx of leukocytes to testicular interstitium. Interactions between endothelial cells (EC) and circulating leukocytes are implicated in the initiation and evolution of inflammatory processes. Chemokines are a family of chemoattractant cytokines characterized by their ability to both recruit and activate cells. Thus, we investigated the expression of CCL3, its receptors, and adhesion molecules CD31 and CD106 in an in vivo model of experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO). In EAO, the highest content of CCL3 in testicular fluid coincides with onset of the disease. However, CCL3 released in vitro by testicular macrophages is higher during the immunization period. The specific chemokine receptors, CCR1 and CCR5, were expressed by testicular monocytes/macrophages and an increased number of CCR5+ cells was associated with the degree of testicular lesion. EC also play an essential role by facilitating leukocyte recruitment via their ability to express cell surface adhesion molecules that mediate interactions with leukocytes in the bloodstream. Rats with EAO showed a significant increase in the percentage of CD31+ EC that upregulate the expression of CD106. The percentage of leukocytes isolated from peripheral blood and lymph nodes expressing CD49d (CD106 ligand) also increases during orchitis. These data suggest that cell adhesion molecules, in conjunction with chemokines, contribute to the formation of a chemotactic gradient within the testis, causing the leukocyte infiltration characteristic of EAO histopathology.
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Wang T, Zhang X, Chen Q, Deng T, Zhang Y, Li N, Shang T, Chen Y, Han D. Toll-like receptor 3-initiated antiviral responses in mouse male germ cells in vitro. Biol Reprod 2012; 86:106. [PMID: 22262694 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.096719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The testis is an immunoprivileged site where local cell-initiated innate immunity plays a crucial role in antimicrobial responses. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) mediate innate immune responses in testicular somatic cells. Although several TLRs are expressed in some stages of male germ cells, the potential role of TLRs in triggering antimicrobial responses in the germ cells has yet to be exclusively studied. The current study demonstrates that TLR3 is constitutively expressed in spermatogonia and spermatocytes and can be activated by a synthetic double-strained RNA analog, polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid. TLR3 activation in these male germ cells up-regulates the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin IL1B, IL6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha, through activation of nuclear factor kappa B; it also induces production of type 1 interferons (IFNA and IFNB) through the activation of IFN regulatory factor 3. In addition, TLR3 activation increases the production of two major antiviral proteins, namely, double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase and MX1 protein, by germ cells. Data in this article describe an antiviral response of male germ cells through the activation of TLR3 in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Huang WJ, Yang L, Pu H, Tsai Y, Wang PS. The Effects of Anti‐TNF‐α Antibody on Hyperprolactinemia‐Related Suppression of hCG‐Induced Testosterone Release in Male Rats. J Sex Med 2012; 9:1005-14. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.02039.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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García L, Veiga MF, Lustig L, Vazquez-Levin MH, Veaute C. DNA Immunization Against Proacrosin Impairs Fertility in Male Mice. Am J Reprod Immunol 2012; 68:56-67. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2012.01127.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2012] [Accepted: 02/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lucila García
- Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas; Universidad Nacional del Litoral; Ciudad Universitaria; Santa Fe; Argentina
| | - María F. Veiga
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME); National Research Council of Argentina (CONICET); Buenos Aires; Argentina
| | - Livia Lustig
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción; Facultad de Medicina; Universidad de Buenos Aires; Buenos Aires; Argentina
| | - Mónica H. Vazquez-Levin
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME); National Research Council of Argentina (CONICET); Buenos Aires; Argentina
| | - Carolina Veaute
- Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas; Universidad Nacional del Litoral; Ciudad Universitaria; Santa Fe; Argentina
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Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is one of the tightest blood-tissue barriers in the mammalian body. It divides the seminiferous epithelium into the basal and the apical (adluminal) compartments. Meiosis I and II, spermiogenesis, and spermiation all take place in a specialized microenvironment behind the BTB in the apical compartment, but spermatogonial renewal and differentiation and cell cycle progression up to the preleptotene spermatocyte stage take place outside of the BTB in the basal compartment of the epithelium. However, the BTB is not a static ultrastructure. Instead, it undergoes extensive restructuring during the seminiferous epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis at stage VIII to allow the transit of preleptotene spermatocytes at the BTB. Yet the immunological barrier conferred by the BTB cannot be compromised, even transiently, during the epithelial cycle to avoid the production of antibodies against meiotic and postmeiotic germ cells. Studies have demonstrated that some unlikely partners, namely adhesion protein complexes (e.g., occludin-ZO-1, N-cadherin-β-catenin, claudin-5-ZO-1), steroids (e.g., testosterone, estradiol-17β), nonreceptor protein kinases (e.g., focal adhesion kinase, c-Src, c-Yes), polarity proteins (e.g., PAR6, Cdc42, 14-3-3), endocytic vesicle proteins (e.g., clathrin, caveolin, dynamin 2), and actin regulatory proteins (e.g., Eps8, Arp2/3 complex), are working together, apparently under the overall influence of cytokines (e.g., transforming growth factor-β3, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1α). In short, a "new" BTB is created behind spermatocytes in transit while the "old" BTB above transiting cells undergoes timely degeneration, so that the immunological barrier can be maintained while spermatocytes are traversing the BTB. We also discuss recent findings regarding the molecular mechanisms by which environmental toxicants (e.g., cadmium, bisphenol A) induce testicular injury via their initial actions at the BTB to elicit subsequent damage to germ-cell adhesion, thereby leading to germ-cell loss, reduced sperm count, and male infertility or subfertility. Moreover, we also critically evaluate findings in the field regarding studies on drug transporters in the testis and discuss how these influx and efflux pumps regulate the entry of potential nonhormonal male contraceptives to the apical compartment to exert their effects. Collectively, these findings illustrate multiple potential targets are present at the BTB for innovative contraceptive development and for better delivery of drugs to alleviate toxicant-induced reproductive dysfunction in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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Moreno RD, Urriola-Muñoz P, Lagos-Cabré R. The emerging role of matrix metalloproteases of the ADAM family in male germ cell apoptosis. Spermatogenesis 2011; 1:195-208. [PMID: 22319668 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.1.3.17894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2011] [Revised: 08/27/2011] [Accepted: 08/29/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Constitutive germ cell apoptosis during mammalian spermatogenesis is a key process for controlling sperm output and to eliminate damaged or unwanted cells. An increase or decrease in the apoptosis rate has deleterious consequences and leads to low sperm production. Apoptosis in spermatogenesis has been widely studied, but the mechanism by which it is induced under physiological or pathological conditions has not been clarified. We have recently identified the metalloprotease ADAM17 (TACE) as a putative physiological inducer of germ cell apoptosis. The mechanisms involved in regulating the shedding of the ADAM17 extracellular domain are still far from being understood, although they are important in order to understand cell-cell communications. Here, we review the available data regarding apoptosis during mammalian spermatogenesis and the localization of ADAM proteins in the male reproductive tract. We propose an integrative working model where ADAM17, p38 MAPK, protein kinase C (PKC) and the tyrosine kinase c-Abl participate in the physiological signalling cascade inducing apoptosis in germ cells. In our model, we also propose a role for the Sertoli cell in regulating the Fas/FasL system in order to induce the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis in germ cells. This working model could be applied to further understand constitutive apoptosis in spermatogenesis and in pathological conditions (e.g., varicocele) or following environmental toxicants exposure (e.g., genotoxicity or xenoestrogens).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo D Moreno
- Departamento de Fisiología; Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile; Santiago, Chile
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Abstract
Male accessory gland infection (MAGI) has been identified among those diagnostic categories which have a negative impact on the reproductive function and fertility in males (Rowe et al., World Health Organization Manual for the Standardised Investigation and Diagnosis of the Infertile Couple, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1993). MAGI is a hypernym which groups the following different clinical categories: prostatitis, prostate-vesiculitis and prostate-vesiculo-epididymitis. Some of the characteristics they share are: common diseases, mainly have a chronic course, rarely cause obstruction of the seminal pathways, can have an unpredictable intracanicular spread to one or more sexual accessory glands of the reproductive tract, as well as to one or both sides. In this review, we show that all components involving the inflammatory response (from the agents which first trigger it to each component of the inflammatory response dynamic) can deteriorate conventional and/or non-conventional sperm parameters arising from one or more of the following mechanisms: altered secretory function of the epididymis, seminal vesicles, and prostate which reduce the antioxidant properties or scavenging role of the seminal plasma; deterioration of spermatogenesis; and (unilateral or bilateral) organic or functional sub-obstruction of the seminal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- S La Vignera
- Section of Endocrinology, Andrology and Internal Medicine and Master in Andrological, Human Reproduction and Biotechnology Sciences, Department of Internal Medicine and Systemic Diseases, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Pérez C, Sobarzo C, Jacobo P, Jarazo Dietrich S, Theas M, Denduchis B, Lustig L. Impaired expression and distribution of adherens and gap junction proteins in the seminiferous tubules of rats undergoing autoimmune orchitis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 34:e566-77. [PMID: 21615420 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2011.01165.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is characterized by an interstitial lymphomononuclear cell infiltration and a severe lesion of seminiferous tubules (ST) with germ cells that undergo apoptosis and sloughing. The aim of this study was to analyse the expression and localization of adherens junction (AJ) proteins: N-cadherin, α-, β- and p120 catenins and gap junction protein, connexin 43 (Cx43), to explore some aspects of germ-cell sloughing during the development of orchitis. EAO was induced in Sprague-Dawley adult rats by active immunization with testicular homogenate and adjuvants. Control rats (C) were injected with saline solution and adjuvants. Concomitant with early signs of germ-cell sloughing, we observed by immunofluorescence and Western blot, a delocalization and a significant increase in N-cadherin and α-catenin expression in the ST of EAO compared with C rats. In spite of this increased AJ protein expression, a severe germ-cell sloughing occurred. This is probably due to the impairment of the AJ complex function, as shown by the loss of N-cadherin/β-catenin colocalization (confocal microscopy) and increased pY654 β-catenin expression, suggesting lower affinity of these two proteins and increased pERK1/2 expression in the testis of EAO rats. The significant decrease in Cx43 expression detected in EAO rats suggests a gap junction function impairment also contributing to germ-cell sloughing.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Pérez
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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48
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Duan YG, Yu CF, Novak N, Bieber T, Zhu CH, Schuppe HC, Haidl G, Allam JP. Immunodeviation towards a Th17 immune response associated with testicular damage in azoospermic men. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 34:e536-45. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2010.01137.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Terayama H, Naito M, Qu N, Hirai S, Kitaoka M, Ogawa Y, Itoh M. Intratesticular expression of mRNAs of both interferon γ and tumor necrosis factor α is significantly increased in experimental autoimmune orchitis in mice. J Reprod Dev 2011; 57:296-302. [PMID: 21258179 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.10-121n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is one of the models of immunological male infertility. Murine EAO is CD4+T cell-dependent and classically induced by immunization with a testicular homogenate and adjuvants. We previously established that immunization with viable syngeneic testicular germ cells (TGC) can also induce murine EAO with no use of any adjuvant. Analyses of this EAO model have already revealed that cultured spleen cells of immunized mice secreted interferon (IFN)-γ and that treatment of the immunized mice with anti-IFN-γ monoclonal antibodies significantly suppressed the EAO. It is known that both IFN-γ and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α are representative cytokines of Th1 cells and exhibit local toxicity toward the seminiferous epithelium in vivo. However, changes in these two cytokines in EAO-affected testes have not yet been investigated. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the expression of intratesticular IFN-γ and TNF- α mRNAs in TGC-induced EAO using real-time RT-PCR. The results demonstrated that the intratesticular mRNAs for both IFN-γ and TNF-α significantly increased, while other cytokines such as IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6 and TGF-β did not show dramatic changes in the immunized mice. These results suggest that secretion of significant amounts of IFN-γ and TNF-α in situ contributes to the spermatogenic disturbance in EAO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayato Terayama
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan.
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Jacobo P, Pérez CV, Theas MS, Guazzone VA, Lustig L. CD4+ and CD8+ T cells producing Th1 and Th17 cytokines are involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune orchitis. Reproduction 2010; 141:249-58. [PMID: 21109610 DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is a useful model to study chronic testicular inflammation and infertility. EAO is characterized by severe damage of seminiferous tubules with germ cells that undergo apoptosis and sloughing. We previously reported an increase in CD4+ and CD8+ effector T cells in the testes of rats with EAO. Since cytokine patterns determine T cell effector functions, in the present work we analyzed the cytokines expressed by these cells during disease development. By flow cytometry, we detected an increase in the number of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF) and interferon -γ (IFNG)-producing CD4+ T cells in the testis at EAO onset. As the severity of the disease progressed, these cells declined while CD8+ T cells producing TNF and IFNG increased, with the predominance of IFNG expression. As a novel finding, we identified by immunofluorescence CD4+ interleukin 17 (IL17)+ and CD8+ IL17+ cells in the testes of EAO rats, with CD4+ and CD8+ T cells predominating at the onset and in the chronic phase of EAO respectively. Moreover, IL17 (western blot) and IL23 content (ELISA) increased in EAO, with maximum levels in the chronic phase. These results suggest the involvement of CD4+ T helper (Th) 1 and Th17 subsets as co-effector cells governing EAO onset, as well as the central contribution of CD8+ T cells producing Th1 and Th17 cytokines in the maintenance of chronic inflammation. The expression of T-bet and RORγt (western blot) in the testis over the course of disease also supports the presence of Th1 and Th17 cells in the testes of EAO rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Jacobo
- School of Medicine, Institute for Research in Reproduction, University of Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155 piso 10, C1121 ABG, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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