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Yingping W, Lizhi L, Haiying L, Li C, Tiantian G, Xiaoyu Z, Yingying Y, Jiahui L. The effect of LINC9137 targeting miR-140-3p-NKAIN3 signal axis on the development of goose testis sertoli cells. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103724. [PMID: 38701630 PMCID: PMC11087709 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SC) are a type of important cells in the testes, which can provide transport proteins, regulatory proteins, growth factors, and other cytokines for the spermatogenic process. They participate in the regulation of the maturation and differentiation of spermatogenic cells and play an important supporting role in the migration, proliferation, and differentiation of germ cells at all levels in the testes. Previous studies found differential expression of LINC9137, miR-140-3p, and Sodium/Potassium Transporting ATPase Interacting 3 (NKAIN3) genesin high and low sperm motility goose testicular tissues. This study investigated the effects of the LINC9137-miR-140-3p-NKAIN3 signal axis on the proliferation and apoptosis of goose testicular sertoli cells at the cellular level, respectively. The results showed that through acridine orange staining, oil red O staining, Alkaline phosphatase (AKP) staining, and RT qPCR assay, it was comprehensively identified that the cultured testicular sertoli cells were purified in vitro. Through the dual luciferase activity detection test, it was found that LINC9137 has a targeted binding site with miR-140-3p and NKAIN3. In addition, this study found that overexpression of miR-140-3p significantly inhibited the expression of LINC9137 and NKAIN3 in sertoli cells, and their expression was significantly increased when miR-140-3p was interfered with. By measuring cell proliferation activity and apoptosis related gene expression, it was found that overexpression of LINC9137 decreased cell proliferation activity (P > 0.05), while the expression level of apoptosis factor Bcl2 Associated X Protein (Bax)/B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl2) increased (P > 0.05). On the contrary, when interfering with LINC9137, the cell proliferation activity of sertoli cells was significantly increased (P < 0.01), and the expression level of apoptosis factor Bax/Bcl2 was significantly reduced (P < 0.05); The effect of miR-140-3p on the proliferation and apoptosis of sertoli cells is opposite to that of LINC9137. Meanwhile, this study co transfected overexpressed LINC9137 and miR-140-3p plasmids into sertoli cells, and found that the effect of LINC9137 overexpression on supporting cell proliferation was weakened by miR-140-3p. This study elucidates the role and function of the LINC9137 miR-140-3p-NKAIN3 signaling axis in the development of goose testes and spermatogenesis, establishes a regulatory network related to spermatogenesis, and provides a theoretical basis for studying the genetic regulation of goose spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wu Yingping
- College of Animal Science, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830000, China
| | - Lu Lizhi
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Li Haiying
- College of Animal Science, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830000, China.
| | - Chen Li
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Gu Tiantian
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Zhao Xiaoyu
- College of Animal Science, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830000, China
| | - Yao Yingying
- College of Animal Science, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830000, China
| | - Li Jiahui
- College of Animal Science, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830000, China
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Shobana N, Kumar MK, Navin AK, Akbarsha MA, Aruldhas MM. Prenatal exposure to excess chromium attenuates transcription factors regulating expression of androgen and follicle stimulating hormone receptors in Sertoli cells of prepuberal rats. Chem Biol Interact 2020; 328:109188. [PMID: 32679048 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2020.109188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
We have reported that gestational exposure to hexavalent chromium (CrVI) represses androgen receptor (Ar) and follicle stimulating hormone receptor (Fshr) in Sertoli cells (SCs) of adult rats, while the mechanism underlying remains obscure. We tested the hypothesis "transient gestational exposure to CrVI during the critical embryonic windows of testicular differentiation and growth may have adverse impact on transcription factors controlling the expression of Ar and Fshr in SCs of the F1 progeny". CrVI (K2Cr2O7) was given through drinking water (50 ppm, 100 ppm and 200 ppm), to pregnant rats from gestational day 9-14 (testicular differentiation) and 15 to 21 (prenatal differentiation and proliferation of SC); male progenies were sacrificed on postnatal day 30 (Completion of postnatal SC maturation). A significant increase in free radicals and decrease in enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants were observed in SCs of experimental rats. Real time PCR and western blot data showed decreased expression of Ar, Fshr, Inhibin B, Transferrin, Androgen binding protein, Claudin 11 and Occludin in SCs of experimental rats; concentrations of lactate, pyruvate and retinoic acid also decreased. Serum FSH, luteinizing hormone and estradiol increased, whereas testosterone and prolactin decreased in experimental rats. Western blot detection revealed decreased levels of transcription factors regulating Fshr viz., USF-1, USF-2, SF-1, c-fos, c-jun and GATA 1, and those of Ar viz., Sp-1, ARA54, SRC-1 and CBP in experimental rats, whereas the levels of cyclinD1 and p53, repressors of Ar increased. ChIP assay detected decreased USF-1 and USF-2 binding to Fshr promoter, and binding of Sp-1 to Ar promoter. We conclude that gestational exposure to CrVI affects SC structure and function in F1 progeny by inducing oxidative stress and diminishing the expression of Ar and Fshr through attenuation of their specific transcriptional regulators and their interaction with the respective promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navaneethabalakrishnan Shobana
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr.A.L.M Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai, 600113, India
| | - Mani Kathiresh Kumar
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr.A.L.M Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai, 600113, India
| | - Ajit Kumar Navin
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr.A.L.M Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai, 600113, India
| | | | - Mariajoseph Michael Aruldhas
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr.A.L.M Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai, 600113, India.
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Sattar H, Yang J, Zhao X, Cai J, Liu Q, Ishfaq M, Yang Z, Chen M, Zhang Z, Xu S. Selenoprotein-U (SelU) knockdown triggers autophagy through PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway inhibition in rooster Sertoli cells. Metallomics 2019; 10:929-940. [PMID: 29961786 DOI: 10.1039/c8mt00090e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is a major component of male reproduction which exerts its effects via selenoproteins. Selenoprotein U (SelU), a newly identified protein, is expressed highly in eukaryotes and possesses a conserved motif similar to that existing in other thiol-dependent redox regulating selenoproteins; however its function is unknown. To investigate the role of SelU in testis autophagic and/or apoptosis cell death mechanisms, we established a Sertoli cell (SC) model isolated from 45 day old layer roosters. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) technology was used to develop SelU-knockdown (SelU-KD) and normal (N) SC models. Consequent to transfection, electron microscopy, qPCR, and western blot were performed. The results show that the mRNA and proteins of autophagy and anti-apoptosis genes increased while that of anti-autophagic mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and pro-apoptosis genes decreased significantly in SelU-KD in contrast to N cells. Simultaneously, in contrast to N cells the expression of phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K) and protein kinase B (PKB/Akt) both at the mRNA and protein levels decreased significantly in SelU-KD cells. In-addition, SelU depletion altered the expression of regulatory factors and increased the mRNA of TSC (tuberous sclerosis complex) genes as compared to N cells. Extensive autophagosome formation and lysosome degradation with an intact cytoskeleton were observed in SelU-KD cells. Our data indicate that SelU deprivation elicits autophagy and reduces the expression of important growth factors in SCs by disrupting the PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling pathway. However SelU attenuation did not induce apoptosis in rooster SCs. Taken together, we conclude that SelU is essential for the survival and normal functioning of SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Sattar
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 59 Mucai Street, Harbin 150030, P. R. China.
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Bhattacharya I, Basu S, Pradhan BS, Sarkar H, Nagarajan P, Majumdar SS. Testosterone augments FSH signaling by upregulating the expression and activity of FSH-Receptor in Pubertal Primate Sertoli cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 482:70-80. [PMID: 30579957 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Revised: 12/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The synergistic actions of Testosterone (T) and FSH via testicular Sertoli cells (Sc) regulate male fertility. We have previously reported that the actions of these hormones (T and FSH) in infant monkey testes are restricted only to the expansion of Sc and spermatogonial cells. The robust differentiation of male Germ cells (Gc) occurs after pubertal maturation of testis. The present study was aimed to investigate the molecular basis of the synergy between T and FSH action in pubertal primate (Macaca mulatta) Sc. Using primary Sc culture, we here have demonstrated that T (but not FSH) downregulated AMH and Inhibin-β-B (INHBB) mRNAs in pubertal Sc. We also found that, prolonged stimulation of T in pubertal Sc significantly elevated the expression of genes involved in FSH signaling pathway like FSH-Receptor (FSHR), GNAS and RIC8B, and this was associated with a rise in cAMP production. T also augmented FSH induced expression of genes like SCF, GDNF, ABP and Transferrin (TF) in pubertal Sc. We therefore conclude that T acts in synergy with FSH signaling in pubertal Sc. Such a coordinated network of hormonal signaling in Sc may facilitate the timely onset of the first spermatogenic wave in pubertal primates and is responsible for quantitatively and qualitatively normal spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, 110067, India; Primate Research Center, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India; Department of Zoology and Biotechnology, HNB Garhwal University, Srinagar Campus, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Sayon Basu
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Bhola Shankar Pradhan
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Hironmoy Sarkar
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, 110067, India; Department of Microbiology, Raiganj University, Raiganj, West Bengal, India
| | - Perumal Nagarajan
- Primate Research Center, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
| | - Subeer S Majumdar
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, 110067, India; Primate Research Center, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India; National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
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Xu J, Xu F, Lawson MS, Tkachenko OY, Ting AY, Kahl CA, Park BS, Stouffer RR, Bishop CV. Anti-Müllerian hormone is a survival factor and promotes the growth of rhesus macaque preantral follicles during matrix-free culture. Biol Reprod 2018; 98:197-207. [PMID: 29293939 PMCID: PMC6248587 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) plays a key role during ovarian follicular development, with local actions associated with a dynamic secretion profile by growing follicles. While results for AMH effects on antral follicle growth and function are consistent among studies in various species, any effects on preantral follicle development remain controversial. Therefore, experiments were conducted to investigate the direct actions and role of AMH during follicle development at the preantral stage. Macaque-specific short-hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) targeting AMH mRNA were incorporated into adenoviral vectors to decrease AMH gene expression in rhesus macaque follicles. Secondary follicles were isolated from adult macaque ovaries and cultured individually in the ultra-low-attachment dish containing defined medium supplemented with follicle-stimulating hormone and insulin for 5 weeks. Follicles were randomly assigned to treatment groups: (a) control, (b) nontargeting control shRNA-vector, (c) AMH shRNA-vector, (d) AMH shRNA-vector + recombinant human AMH, and (e) recombinant human AMH. Follicle survival and growth were assessed. Culture media were analyzed for steroid hormone and paracrine factor concentrations. For in vivo study, the nontargeting control shRNA-vector and AMH shRNA-vector were injected into macaque ovaries. Ovaries were collected 9 days postinjection for morphology and immunohistochemistry assessment. Decreased AMH expression reduced preantral follicle survival and growth in nonhuman primates. Supplemental AMH treatment in the culture media promoted preantral follicle growth to the small antral stage in vitro with increased steroid hormone and paracrine factor production, as well as oocyte maturation. These data demonstrate that AMH is a critical follicular paracrine/autocrine factor positively impacting preantral follicle survival and growth in primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Fuhua Xu
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Maralee S Lawson
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Olena Y Tkachenko
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Alison Y Ting
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Christoph A Kahl
- Molecular Virology Support Core, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Byung S Park
- Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Richard R Stouffer
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Cecily V Bishop
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
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Li MQ, Luo AL, Zhao PW, Li TT, Geng SS, Liang XW, Xu HY, Lu YQ, Lu SS, Yang XG, Lu KH. Nanos2 is a molecular marker of inchoate buffalo spermatogonia. Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 186:44-51. [PMID: 28982519 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2017] [Revised: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/02/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Nanos2 belongs to the Nanos gene-coding family and is an important RNA-binding protein that has been shown to have essential roles in male germline stem cells development and self-renewal in mouse. However, little is known about Nanos2 in inchoate buffalo spermatogonia. Here, rapid-amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) was used to obtain the full-length buffalo Nanos2 sequence and bioinformatic analysis revealed a highly conserved Nanos2 sequence between buffalo and other mammalian species. Although Nanos2 was expressed in various tissues, the highest mRNA expression levels were found in testes tissue. Moreover, Nanos2 mRNA was abundant in fetal and pre-puberal testes but markedly decreased in the testes of adults. At the protein level, immunohistochemistry in pre-puberal testes revealed a pattern of NANOS2 expression similar to that for the undifferentiated type A spermatogonia marker PGP9.5. Furthermore, NANOS2 expression was low in adult testes and restricted to elongating spermatids. Altogether, our data suggest that Nanos2 is a potential preliminary molecular marker of inchoate buffalo spermatogonia, and may play an important role in buffalo spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) development and self-renewal, as has been observed in other model animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Qi Li
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi High Education Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi Buffalo Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning 530001, Guangxi, China
| | - Ao-Lin Luo
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi High Education Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Peng-Wei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi High Education Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Ting-Ting Li
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi High Education Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Shuang-Shuang Geng
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi High Education Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Xing-Wei Liang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi High Education Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Hui-Yan Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi High Education Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Yang-Qing Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi High Education Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Sheng-Sheng Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi High Education Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Xiao-Gan Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi High Education Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China.
| | - Ke-Huan Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi High Education Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China.
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Advantages of pulsatile hormone treatment for assessing hormone-induced gene expression by cultured rat Sertoli cells. Cell Tissue Res 2016; 368:389-396. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-016-2410-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Bhattacharya I, Basu S, Sarda K, Gautam M, Nagarajan P, Pradhan BS, Sarkar H, Devi YS, Majumdar SS. Low levels of Gαs and Ric8b in testicular sertoli cells may underlie restricted FSH action during infancy in primates. Endocrinology 2015; 156:1143-55. [PMID: 25549048 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
FSH acts via testicular Sertoli cells (Sc) bearing FSH receptor (FSH-R) for regulating male fertility. Despite an adult-like FSH milieu in infant boys and monkeys, spermatogenesis is not initiated until the onset of puberty. We used infant and pubertal monkey Sc to reveal the molecular basis underlying developmental differences of FSH-R signaling in them. Unlike pubertal Sc, increasing doses of FSH failed to augment cAMP production by infant Sc. The expression of Gαs subunit and Ric8b, which collectively activate adenylyl cyclase (AC) for augmenting cAMP production and gene transcription, were significantly low in infant Sc. However, forskolin, which acts directly on AC bypassing FSH-R, augmented cAMP production and gene transcription uniformly in both infant and pubertal Sc. FSH-induced Gαs mRNA expression was higher in pubertal Sc. However, Gαi-2 expression was down-regulated by FSH in pubertal Sc, unlike infant Sc. FSH failed, but forskolin or 8-Bromoadenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate treatment to infant Sc significantly augmented the expression of transferrin, androgen binding protein, inhibin-β-B, stem cell factor, and glial-derived neurotropic factor, which are usually up-regulated by FSH in pubertal Sc during spermatogenic onset. This suggested that lack of FSH mediated down-regulation of Gαi-2 expression and limited expression of Gαs subunit as well as Ric8b may underlie limited FSH responsiveness of Sc during infancy. This study also divulged that intracellular signaling events downstream of FSH-R are in place and can be activated exogenously in infant Sc. Additionally, this information may help in the proper diagnosis and treatment of infertile individuals having abnormal G protein-coupled FSH-R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory (I.B., S.B., K.S., M.G., B.S.P., H.S., Y.S.D., S.S.M.) and Primate Research Centre (P.N., S.S.M.), National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India 110067
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Matsushita K, Miyake H, Chiba K, Fujisawa M. Clusterin produced by Sertoli cells inhibits heat stress-induced apoptosis in the rat testis. Andrologia 2015; 48:11-9. [PMID: 25661013 DOI: 10.1111/and.12404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to determine whether the inhibition of clusterin expression in rat Sertoli cells enhances heat stress-induced apoptosis. The scrotums of rats were immersed in a water bath of 43 °C for 15 min. Testicular weight and germ cell number markedly decreased after the heat treatment in a time-dependent manner. In contrast, clusterin mRNA and protein expression levels were significantly up-regulated and peaked on day 21. The apoptotic index was markedly increased 1 day after the heat treatment. We then purified Sertoli cells from the rat testes, and an expression vector containing siRNA targeting the clusterin gene was transiently transfected into Sertoli cells. Following exposure to heat stress at 41 °C for 12 h, clusterin mRNA was markedly up-regulated after transfection with the control vector; however, the transfection of siRNA targeting the clusterin resulted in >70% reduction in the expression of clusterin mRNA. Furthermore, the apoptotic index in these Sertoli cells was significantly higher after the treatment with siRNA targeting the clusterin than control, and the most prominent difference was observed within 24 h after the heat treatment. These results suggest that an increase in the secretion of clusterin by Sertoli cells protects the testes from heat stress-induced injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Matsushita
- Division of Urology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - H Miyake
- Division of Urology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - K Chiba
- Division of Urology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - M Fujisawa
- Division of Urology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
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Sekaran S, Balaganapathy P, Parsanathan R, Elangovan S, Gunashekar J, Bhat FA, Jagadeesan A. Lactational exposure of phthalate causes long-term disruption in testicular architecture by altering tight junctional and apoptotic protein expression in Sertoli cells of first filial generation pubertal Wistar rats. Hum Exp Toxicol 2014; 34:575-90. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327114555926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a ubiquitous environmental contaminant and a well-known endocrine disruptor (ED) that interferes with the reproductive function in both humans and animals. This study aimed to find out the impact of lactational exposure of DEHP in testes of first filial generation (F1) progeny male rat postnatal day (PND)-60. Lactating dams were orally treated with DEHP (0, 1, 10 and 100 mg/kg body weight/day, respectively) from the PND-1 to PND-21. Rats were killed at PND 60. Testes were removed and used for histological analysis and for isolation of Sertoli cells (SCs). The histoarchitecture of DEHP-treated rats showed disturbed testicular structure. DEHP-treated rats also showed increased oxidative stress by decreasing antioxidant levels in the SCs; it disrupted SC tight junctional proteins occludin, claudin, junctional adhesion molecule, zona occludens protein-1 (ZO-1), zona occludens protein-2 (ZO-2), and afadin-6 (AF-6), increased apoptosis by altering the apoptotic genes Bax, cytochrome c, caspase-8, -9, -3 and antiapoptotic gene Bcl-2. It is concluded that early postnatal exposure to DEHP disturbs histoarchitecture of testis and SC function in pubertal Wistar rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Sekaran
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM PG Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - P Balaganapathy
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM PG Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - R Parsanathan
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM PG Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S Elangovan
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM PG Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - J Gunashekar
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM PG Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - FA Bhat
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM PG Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - A Jagadeesan
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM PG Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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Starvation is more efficient than the washing technique for purification of rat Sertoli cells. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2014; 50:723-30. [PMID: 24789729 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-014-9762-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs), one of the most important components of seminiferous tubules, are vital for normal spermatogenesis and male fertility. In recent years, numerous in vitro studies have shown the potential and actual activities of SCs. However, pure SCs are necessary for various in vitro studies. In this study, we have evaluated the efficiency of the starvation method for SC purification as compared with the washing method. Seminiferous tubule-derived cells (STDCs) of rats' testes underwent two different techniques for SC purification. In the first group (washing group), the medium was changed every 3-4 d, and cells were washed twice with phosphate-buffered saline that lacked CaC12 and MgSO4 (PBS(-)) before the addition of fresh medium. In the second group (starvation), the medium was changed every 7-8 d. Primary culture (P0), passage 1 (P1), and passage 2 (P2) cells were analyzed for the expression of SC-specific genes, vimentin, Wilm's tumor 1 (WT1), germ cell gene (vasa), Leydig cell marker, 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 (Hsd17b3), and a marker of peritubular myoid cells, alpha smooth muscle actin (αSma), by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and real-time RT-PCR. Gene expression analysis showed that P0 cells expressed all tested genes except Hsd17b3. The starvation method caused significant downregulation of vasa and αSma expression in P0, P1, and P2 cells, whereas vimentin and WT1 were upregulated. In contrast, the washing method was less effective than the starvation method for the removal of germ and pretubular myoid cells (p < 0.001). Totally, the results have revealed that although washing is the only common technique for elimination of contaminant cells in SC cultures, starvation has a stronger effect and is a suitable, affordable technique for SC purification. We propose that starvation is an efficient, inexpensive method that can be used for purification of SCs in animal species.
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Das DS, Wadhwa N, Kunj N, Sarda K, Pradhan BS, Majumdar SS. Dickkopf homolog 3 (DKK3) plays a crucial role upstream of WNT/β-CATENIN signaling for Sertoli cell mediated regulation of spermatogenesis. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63603. [PMID: 23667645 PMCID: PMC3647036 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 04/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular Sertoli cells (Sc) are main somatic component of seminiferous tubules that govern the differentiation of germ cells (Gc) and provide them physical support. Sc are the target of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone (T) which are known to regulate spermatogenesis. FSH and T levels in human and sub-human male primates remain high during infancy (4–6 months post birth), similar to those during puberty. Subsequently, juvenile phase is marked with low levels of these hormones. In spite of prolonged hormonal exposure, spermatogenesis is not discerned during infancy unlike that during puberty. Situation during infancy is similar to certain idiopathic male infertility, where prolonged hormone supplementation fails to initiate spermatogenesis. In our quest to determine non hormonal causes of idiopathic infertility which may reside within the Sc, we investigated the association between spermatogenesis and Sc specific gene(s) expressed differentially during puberty and infancy. Although products of several genes may be necessary for quantitatively normal spermatogenesis, one needs to investigate their roles one by one. Differential display and real time PCR analysis revealed higher expression of a known tumor suppressor, Dickkopf homolog 3 (DKK3), by pubertal monkey Sc as compared to infant Sc. To evaluate role of DKK3 in spermatogenesis, we generated DKK3 knock down mice (DKDM) using shRNA construct targeted to DKK3. In testis of adult DKDM, expression of DKK3 mRNA and protein were significantly (p<0.05) low and was associated with elevated WNT-4/β-CATENIN activity. Elevated β-CATENIN activity is known to restrict Sc maturation. Abundant expression of infant Sc marker, Mullerian inhibiting substance (MIS), in the testes of adult DKDM confirmed lack of Sc maturation in DKDM. Gc differentiation and fertility was severely compromised in DKDM. This is the first report of role of DKK3 in the testis and DKK3 mediated regulation of spermatogenesis via WNT-4/β-CATENIN modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Sharma Das
- Division of Cellular Endocrinology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Neerja Wadhwa
- Division of Embryo Biotechnology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Neetu Kunj
- Division of Embryo Biotechnology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Kanchan Sarda
- Division of Cellular Endocrinology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Bhola Shankar Pradhan
- Division of Cellular Endocrinology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Subeer S. Majumdar
- Division of Cellular Endocrinology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
- Division of Embryo Biotechnology, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
- * E-mail:
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Majumdar SS, Sarda K, Bhattacharya I, Plant TM. Insufficient androgen and FSH signaling may be responsible for the azoospermia of the infantile primate testes despite exposure to an adult-like hormonal milieu. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2515-25. [PMID: 22669085 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In humans, as well as in other higher primates, the infantile testis is exposed to an adult-like hormonal milieu, but spermatogenesis is not initiated at this stage of primate development. In the present study, we examined the molecular basis of this intriguing infertile state of the primate testis. METHODS The integrity of androgen receptor (AR) and FSH receptor (FSHR) signaling pathways in primary cultures of Sertoli cells (Scs) harvested from azoospermic infant and spermatogenic pubertal monkey testes were investigated under identical in vitro hormonal conditions. In order to synchronously harvest Scs from early pubertal testis, the activation of testicular puberty was timed experimentally by prematurely initiating gonadotrophin secretion in juvenile animals with an intermittent infusion of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone. RESULTS While qRT-PCR demonstrated that AR and FSHR mRNA expression in Scs from infant and pubertal testes were comparable, androgen-binding and FSH-mediated cAMP production by infant Scs was extremely low. Compromised AR and FSHR signaling in infant Scs was further supported by the finding that testosterone (T) and FSH failed to augment the expression of the T responsive gene, claudin 11, and the FSH responsive genes, inhibin-βB, stem cell factor (SCF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in Scs harvested at this stage of development. CONCLUSION These results indicate that compromised AR and FSHR signaling pathways in Scs underlie the inability of the infant primate testis to respond to an endogenous hormonal milieu that later in development, at the time puberty, stimulates the initiation of spermatogenesis. This finding may have relevance to some forms of idiopathic infertility in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subeer S Majumdar
- Division of Cellular Endocrinology, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi 110067, India.
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Sheng C, Zheng Q, Wu J, Xu Z, Wang L, Li W, Zhang H, Zhao XY, Liu L, Wang Z, Guo C, Wu HJ, Liu Z, Wang L, He S, Wang XJ, Chen Z, Zhou Q. Direct reprogramming of Sertoli cells into multipotent neural stem cells by defined factors. Cell Res 2011; 22:208-18. [PMID: 22064700 DOI: 10.1038/cr.2011.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Multipotent neural stem/progenitor cells hold great promise for cell therapy. The reprogramming of fibroblasts to induced pluripotent stem cells as well as mature neurons suggests a possibility to convert a terminally differentiated somatic cell into a multipotent state without first establishing pluripotency. Here, we demonstrate that Sertoli cells derived from mesoderm can be directly converted into a multipotent state that possesses neural stem/progenitor cell properties. The induced neural stem/progenitor cells (iNSCs) express multiple NSC-specific markers, exhibit a global gene-expression profile similar to normal NSCs, and are capable of self-renewal and differentiating into glia and electrophysiologically functional neurons. iNSC-derived neurons stain positive for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), γ-aminobutyric acid, and choline acetyltransferase. In addition, iNSCs can survive and generate synapses following transplantation into the dentate gyrus. Generation of iNSCs may have important implications for disease modeling and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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A method for rapid generation of transgenic animals to evaluate testis genes during sexual maturation. J Reprod Immunol 2009; 83:36-9. [PMID: 19880193 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2009.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2009] [Revised: 09/12/2009] [Accepted: 09/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In certain forms of idiopathic infertility, there is failure of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone (T) to initiate spermatogenesis despite the presence of Sertoli cells and germ cells in the testis. In postnatal rats (up to 11 days of age) and infant monkeys (3-4 months old), robust division and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells is not discerned, even though serum levels of FSH and T are similar to those found during adulthood. Lack of spermatogenesis together with normal hormone levels is a situation similar to that found in certain categories of male infertility. To investigate this intriguing situation, Sertoli cells were cultured from infant and pubertal rats and monkeys and differential gene expression by testicular Sertoli cells was evaluated by DNA microarray using the Agilent microarray system. To determine the role of candidate genes in regulation of spermatogenesis, transgenic animals over-expressing these genes must be generated. However, present techniques for generation of transgenic animals have limited utility for production of several transgenic animals within a short period of time. Therefore, we have developed a technique for making transgenic animals by the testicular route which is less labor intensive and less time consuming. This technique is also ethically superior since fewer mice are required than in existing alternative methods of transgenesis.
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Chen M, Cai H, Yang JL, Lu CL, Liu T, Yang W, Guo J, Hu XQ, Fan CH, Hu ZY, Gao F, Liu YX. Effect of heat stress on expression of junction-associated molecules and upstream factors androgen receptor and Wilms' tumor 1 in monkey sertoli cells. Endocrinology 2008; 149:4871-82. [PMID: 18535113 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-1093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells are important in determining the fate of spermatogenic cells by providing nutrition and structural support via cell junctions. In this study, we sought to examine the effect of 43 C warming on cell junctions in seminiferous epithelium and the expression of junction-associated molecules in Sertoli cells. Electron microscopy showed the appearance of large vacuoles between Sertoli and germ cells and adjacent Sertoli cells, leading to disruption of corresponding cell junctions 24 h after terminating the heat treatment. Using primary Sertoli cells isolated from pubertal monkey testes, we demonstrated that expression of adherens junction-associated molecules, such as N-cadherin and beta-catenin, and tight junction-associated molecule zonula occludens protein 1 was significantly reduced in 24-48 h after heat treatment. In contrast, intermediate filament vimentin expression was up-regulated in 6-48 h. Androgen receptor (AR) and Wilms' tumor gene 1 expression dramatically decreased after heat treatment. Both proteins completely disappeared immediately after terminating heat treatment and began to recover after 6 h. Treatment of the monkey Sertoli cells with an AR antagonist, flutamide, could mimic the heat-induced changes in the expression of junction-associated molecules in Sertoli cells. Furthermore, overexpression of AR in the Sertoli cells up-regulated the expression of N-cadherin, beta-catenin, and zonula occludens protein 1 and down-regulated vimentin expression. Their expression after heat treatment could be rescued by the AR overexpression. These results indicate that the decreased AR expression after heat treatment is involved in heat-induced cell junction disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
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Chen M, Yuan JX, Shi YQ, Zhang XS, Hu ZY, Gao F, Liu YX. Effect of 43 degrees treatment on expression of heat shock proteins 105, 70 and 60 in cultured monkey Sertoli cells. Asian J Androl 2008; 10:474-85. [PMID: 18385910 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7262.2008.00391.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To examine the possible effect of heat treatment on expression of heat shock proteins (Hsps) 105, 70, and 60 in primary monkey Sertoli cells and to evaluate the possible signal pathways. METHODS Western blot analysis, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and confocal immunohistochemistry were used to analyze mRNA and protein levels of the Hsps in response to 43 degrees treatment of Sertoli cells isolated from pubertal monkey testes. RESULTS Staining with Hoechst 33342 indicated Sertoli cells did not undergo apoptosis after heat treatment. Hsp105 was expressed in cytoplasm of untreated Sertoli cells. Both Hsp105 mRNA and protein levels were increased approximately 20-fold compared to those of the untreated controls at 12 h after heat treatment. Untreated Sertoli cells did not express Hsp70, but heat stress induced its expression in the cell cytoplasm. The time-course of changes in Hsp70 was similar to that of Hsp105. In contrast to Hsp105 and Hsp70, the change in Hsp60 expression was much less obvious. The protein level between 12 h and 48 h after heat treatment was only approximately 1.5-fold that of the untreated control. Extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 inhibitor (U0126) or phosphoinositide kinase-3 (PI3K) inhibitor (LY294002) could partially block the response of Hsp105 and Hsp70 induced by heat treatment. CONCLUSION These results indicate that the heat-induced expression of the three types of Hsp in monkey Sertoli cells might be regulated by ERK and/or PI3K signal pathways, but the profile of their expression is different, suggesting that they might have different regulatory functions in Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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Davidson AG, Bell RJ, Lees GE, Murphy KE. Isolation, culture, and characterization of canine Sertoli cells. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2007; 43:324-7. [PMID: 17973176 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-007-9066-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2007] [Accepted: 10/03/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Primary Sertoli cell cultures have been established from several animals including the sheep and rhesus monkey; however, not for the domestic dog, Canis familiaris. Sertoli cells are the only readily accessible cell type in the body which expresses all six type IV collagens. These collagens play key roles in tissue structure, basement membrane formation, and filtration. The study of these genes is necessary to determine their exact roles and regulation in the aforementioned functions and to investigate diseases associated with mutations in these genes. For such studies, a cell culture system is a requisite tool. Therefore, Sertoli cells were targeted, and a culture was established from cells isolated from canine testes. Cultures maintained consistent morphology and steady growth for up to seven passages. Cultured cells were identified as Sertoli cells through positive Western blot results for SOX9 and Clusterin B proteins and transcript sequence verification of SOX9 as well as the presence of type IV collagen transcripts. Primary cultures of canine Sertoli cells will provide a useful tool for study of the function and regulation of collagen genes and will permit new research pertaining to canine health while also serving as a model for the study of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley G Davidson
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4467, USA
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Valdés-González R, Silva-Torres L, Ramírez-González B, Ormsby CE, Terán-Ortiz L, Ayala-Sumuano JT. Method for evaluating quality of cultured neonatal pig Sertoli cells. Xenotransplantation 2005; 12:316-23. [PMID: 15943781 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3089.2005.00235.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sertoli cells (SC) in the testis secrete factors that nourish and immunoprotect developing spermatozoa, which have made them the focus of studies that aim to generate localized tolerance, particularly for transplantation and perhaps autoimmunity. Several methods have been described to isolate these cells, which include a two-step enzymatic digestion with limited assessment of the culture. Here we describe a one-step method, and a series of tests for determining purity, viability, and function of the cultured cells. METHODS We isolated SC from neonatal pigs using Liberase HI digestion. Viability and apoptosis of cultured cells were measured by flow cytometry with propidium iodide and annexin, respectively. Specific identification of the Sertoli type was made by immunodetection of Sox9, vimentin, and Mullerian inhibiting substance. Moreover, for functionality we were able to detect clusterin in the cultured cells by Western blot. RESULTS Our isolation method had a yield and purity similar to previous reports measured with two-step methods. Viability was 95.22 +/- 0.57% and apoptotic cells were 10.5 +/- 0.32% after 48 h in culture. At 7 days, practically all cells expressed Sox9, Mullerian inhibiting substance, clusterin, and vimentin. CONCLUSIONS We describe an alternative strategy for preparing and identifying cultured SC for further assays of metabolic activity or in transplantation models. Establishing a one-step Liberase-digestion method for isolation, evaluating viability and apoptosis by more sensitive methods, and detecting specific markers in culture can help to evaluate the quality of cultured cells. Specific cell markers for identifying SC may be critical when identifying SC outside the testis, in contrast with vimentin which is useful only for in situ cells.
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