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Huang X, Huang Z, Li Q, Li W, Han C, Yang Y, Lin H, Wu Q, Zhou Y. De Novo Assembly, Characterization, and Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Mature Male and Female Gonads of Rabbitfish ( Siganus oramin) (Bloch & Schneider, 1801). Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1346. [PMID: 38731350 PMCID: PMC11083024 DOI: 10.3390/ani14091346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The rabbitfish, Siganus oramin, is a commercially important table fish in southeastern China. However, there have been few studies on its gonad development and reproduction regulation. Comparative transcriptome analysis was first performed on adult male and female gonads of S. oramin. In total, 47,070 unigenes were successfully assembled and 22,737 unigenes were successfully annotated. Through comparative transcriptome analysis of male and female gonads, a total of 6722 differentially expressed genes were successfully identified, with 3528 upregulated genes and 3154 downregulated genes in the testes. In addition, 39 differentially expressed reproduction-related genes were identified. Finally, quantitative real-time PCR was used to validate the expression levels of several differentially expressed genes. These results provide important data for further studying the function of reproduction-related genes and the molecular mechanism regulating gonad development and reproduction in S. oramin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolin Huang
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation & Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou 510300, China (H.L.)
- National Fishery Resources and Environment Dapeng Observation and Experimental Station, Shenzhen Base of South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shenzhen 518121, China
| | - Zhong Huang
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation & Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou 510300, China (H.L.)
- National Fishery Resources and Environment Dapeng Observation and Experimental Station, Shenzhen Base of South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shenzhen 518121, China
| | - Qiang Li
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Wenjun Li
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chong Han
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yukai Yang
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation & Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou 510300, China (H.L.)
- National Fishery Resources and Environment Dapeng Observation and Experimental Station, Shenzhen Base of South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shenzhen 518121, China
| | - Heizhao Lin
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation & Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou 510300, China (H.L.)
- National Fishery Resources and Environment Dapeng Observation and Experimental Station, Shenzhen Base of South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shenzhen 518121, China
| | - Qiaer Wu
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation & Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou 510300, China (H.L.)
- National Fishery Resources and Environment Dapeng Observation and Experimental Station, Shenzhen Base of South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shenzhen 518121, China
| | - Yanbo Zhou
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation & Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou 510300, China (H.L.)
- National Fishery Resources and Environment Dapeng Observation and Experimental Station, Shenzhen Base of South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shenzhen 518121, China
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Li S, Zhao B, Yang H, Dai K, Cai Y, Xu H, Chen P, Wang F, Zhang Y. Comprehensive transcriptomic analysis revealing the regulatory dynamics and networks of the pituitary-testis axis in sheep across developmental stages. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1367730. [PMID: 38440388 PMCID: PMC10909840 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1367730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process intricately regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-testis (HPT) axis. However, research on the regulatory factors governing the HPT axis remains limited. This study addresses this gap by conducting a comprehensive analysis of transcriptomes from the pituitary and testis tissues across various developmental stages, encompassing embryonic day (E120), neonatal period (P0), pre-puberty (P90), and post-puberty day (P270). Utilizing edgeR and WGCNA, we identified stage-specific genes in both the pituitary and testis throughout the four developmental stages. Notably, 380, 242, 34, and 479 stage-specific genes were identified in the pituitary, while 886, 297, 201, and 3,678 genes were identified in the testis. Subsequent analyses unveiled associations between these stage-specific genes and crucial pathways such as the cAMP signaling pathway, GnRH secretion, and male gamete generation. Furthermore, leveraging single-cell data from the pituitary and testis, we identified some signaling pathways involving BMP, HGF, IGF, and TGF-β, highlighting mutual regulation between the pituitary and testis at different developmental stages. This study sheds light on the pivotal role of the pituitary-testis axis in the reproductive process of sheep across four distinct developmental stages. Additionally, it delves into the intricate regulatory networks governing reproduction, offering novel insights into the dynamics of the pituitary-testis axis within the reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yanli Zhang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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Zhong S, Chen L, Li X, Wang X, Ji G, Sun C, Liu Z. Bmp8a deletion leads to obesity through regulation of lipid metabolism and adipocyte differentiation. Commun Biol 2023; 6:824. [PMID: 37553521 PMCID: PMC10409762 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05194-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) in regulating adipose has recently become a field of interest. However, the underlying mechanism of this effect has not been elucidated. Here we show that the anti-fat effect of Bmp8a is mediated by promoting fatty acid oxidation and inhibiting adipocyte differentiation. Knocking out the bmp8a gene in zebrafish results in weight gain, fatty liver, and increased fat production. The bmp8a-/- zebrafish exhibits decreased phosphorylation levels of AMPK and ACC in the liver and adipose tissues, indicating reduced fatty acid oxidation. Also, Bmp8a inhibits the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes into mature adipocytes by activating the Smad2/3 signaling pathway, in which Smad2/3 binds to the central adipogenic factor PPARγ promoter to inhibit its transcription. In addition, lentivirus-mediated overexpression of Bmp8a in 3T3-L1 cells significantly increases NOD-like receptor, TNF, and NF-κB signaling pathways. Furthermore, NF-κB interacts with PPARγ, blocking PPARγ's activation of its target gene Fabp4, thereby inhibiting adipocyte differentiation. These data bring a signal bridge between immune regulation and adipocyte differentiation. Collectively, our findings indicate that Bmp8a plays a critical role in regulating lipid metabolism and adipogenesis, potentially providing a therapeutic approach for obesity and its comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenjie Zhong
- College of Marine Life Science and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Lihui Chen
- College of Marine Life Science and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Xinyi Li
- College of Marine Life Science and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Xinyuan Wang
- College of Marine Life Science and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Guangdong Ji
- College of Marine Life Science and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Chen Sun
- College of Marine Life Science and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China.
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, 266003, China.
| | - Zhenhui Liu
- College of Marine Life Science and Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China.
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, 266003, China.
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Ciller I, Palanisamy S, Ciller U, Al-Ali I, Coumans J, McFarlane J. Steroidogenic enzyme gene expression and testosterone production are developmentally modulated by bone morphogenetic protein receptor-1B in mouse testis. Physiol Res 2023; 72:359-369. [PMID: 37455641 PMCID: PMC10668998 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.935014] [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: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and receptors (BMPR-1A, BMPR-1B, BMPR-2) have been shown to be vital for female reproduction, while their roles in males are poorly described. Our study was undertaken to specify the function of BMPR-1B in steroidogenic enzyme gene expression, testosterone production and reproductive development in male mice, given that Bmpr1b mRNA is expressed in mouse testis and Bmpr1b knockout results in compromised fertility. Male mice were passively immunized for 6 days with anti-BMPR-1B in the presence or absence of exogenous gonadotrophins. We then measured the effects of anti-BMPR-1B on testicular hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase isoforms (Hsd3b1, Hsd3b6, and Hsd17b3) and aromatase (Cyp19) mRNA expression, testicular and serum testosterone levels, and testis and seminal vesicle weight. In vitro testosterone production in response to anti-BMPR-1B was determined using testicular culture, and Leydig cell culture in the presence or absence of gonadotrophins. In Leydig cell culture the contribution of seminiferous tubules and Leydig cells were examined by preconditioning the media with these testicular constituents. In adult mice, anti-BMPR-1B increased testosterone and Hsd3b1 but decreased Hsd3b6 and Cyp19 mRNA. In adult testicular culture and seminiferous tubule conditioned Leydig cell culture, anti-BMPR-1B reduced testosterone, while in normal and Leydig cell conditioned Leydig cell culture it increased testosterone levels. In pubertal mice, anti-BMPR-1B reduced gonadotrophin stimulated seminal vesicle growth. In conclusion, BMPR-1B has specific developmental functions in the autocrine and paracrine regulation of testicular steroidogenic enzyme gene expression and testosterone production in adults and in the development of seminal vesicles during puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Ciller
- School of Rural Medicine, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia.
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Molecular Characterization of TGF-Beta Gene Family in Buffalo to Identify Gene Duplication and Functional Mutations. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13081302. [PMID: 35893038 PMCID: PMC9331672 DOI: 10.3390/genes13081302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The TGF-β superfamily is ubiquitously distributed from invertebrates to vertebrates with diverse cellular functioning such as cell adhesion, motility, proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation. The present study aimed to characterize the TGF-β gene superfamily in buffalo through evolutionary, structural, and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) analyses to find the functional effect of SNPs in selected genes. We detected 32 TGF-β genes in buffalo genome and all TGF-β proteins exhibited basic nature except INHA, INHBC, MSTN, BMP10, and GDF2, which showed acidic properties. According to aliphatic index, TGF-β proteins were thermostable but unstable in nature. Except for GDF1 and AMH, TGF-β proteins depicted hydrophilic nature. Moreover, all the detected buffalo TGF-β genes showed evolutionary conserved nature. We also identified eight segmental and one tandem duplication event TGF-β gene family in buffalo, and the ratio of Ka/Ks demonstrated that all the duplicated gene pairs were under selective pressure. Comparative amino acid analysis demonstrated higher variation in buffalo TGF-β gene family, as a total of 160 amino acid variations in all the buffalo TGF-β proteins were detected. Mutation analysis revealed that 13 mutations had an overall damaging effect that might have functional consequences on buffalo growth, folliculogenesis, or embryogenesis.
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Pathophysiology and Emerging Molecular Therapeutic Targets in Heterotopic Ossification. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23136983. [PMID: 35805978 PMCID: PMC9266941 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23136983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The term heterotopic ossification (HO) describes bone formation in tissues where bone is normally not present. Musculoskeletal trauma induces signalling events that in turn trigger cells, probably of mesenchymal origin, to differentiate into bone. The aetiology of HO includes extremely rare but severe, generalised and fatal monogenic forms of the disease; and as a common complex disorder in response to musculoskeletal, neurological or burn trauma. The resulting bone forms through a combination of endochondral and intramembranous ossification, depending on the aetiology, initiating stimulus and affected tissue. Given the heterogeneity of the disease, many cell types and biological pathways have been studied in efforts to find effective therapeutic strategies for the disorder. Cells of mesenchymal, haematopoietic and neuroectodermal lineages have all been implicated in the pathogenesis of HO, and the emerging dominant signalling pathways are thought to occur through the bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and retinoic acid receptor pathways. Increased understanding of these disease mechanisms has resulted in the emergence of several novel investigational therapeutic avenues, including palovarotene and other retinoic acid receptor agonists and activin A inhibitors that target both canonical and non-canonical signalling downstream of the BMP type 1 receptor. In this article we aim to illustrate the key cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of HO and outline recent advances in emerging molecular therapies to treat and prevent HO that have had early success in the monogenic disease and are currently being explored in the common complex forms of HO.
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Abstract
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is determined by exhaustion of follicles in the ovaries, which leads to infertility before the age of 40 years. It is characterized by a strong familial and heterogeneous genetic background. Therefore, we will mainly discuss the genetic basis of POI in this review. We identified 107 genes related to POI etiology in mammals described by several independent groups. Thirty-four of these genes (AARS2, AIRE, ANTXR1, ATM, BMPR1B, CLPP, CYP17A1, CYP19A1, DCAF17, EIF2B, ERAL1, FANCA, FANCC, FMR1, FOXL2, GALT, GNAS, HARS2, HSD17B4, LARS2, LMNA, MGME1, NBN, PMM2, POLG, PREPL, RCBTB1, RECQL2/3/4, STAR, TWNK, and XRCC4/9) have been linked to syndromic POI and are mainly implicated in metabolism function and meiosis/DNA repair. In addition, the majority of genes associated with nonsyndromic POI, widely expanded by high-throughput techniques over the last decade, have been implicated in ovarian development and meiosis/DNA repair pathways (ATG7, ATG9, ANKRD31, BMP8B, BMP15, BMPR1A, BMPR1B, BMPR2, BNC1, BRCA2, CPEB1, C14ORF39, DAZL, DIAPH2, DMC1, ERCC6, FANCL, FANCM, FIGLA, FSHR, GATA4, GDF9, GJA4, HELQ, HSF2BP, HFM1, INSL3, LHCGR, LHX8, MCM8, MCM9, MEIOB, MSH4, MSH5, NANOS3, NOBOX, NOTCH2, NR5A1, NUP107, PGRMC1, POLR3H, PRDM1, PRDM9, PSMC3IP, SOHLH1, SOHLH2, SPIDR, STAG3, SYCE1, TP63, UBR2, WDR62, and XRCC2), whereas a few are related to metabolic functions (EIF4ENIF1, KHDRBS1, MRPS22, POLR2C). Some genes, such as STRA8, FOXO3A, KIT, KITL, WNT4, and FANCE, have been shown to cause ovarian insufficiency in rodents, but mutations in these genes have yet to be elucidated in women affected by POI. Lastly, some genes have been rarely implicated in its etiology (AMH, AMHR2, ERRC2, ESR1, INHA, LMN4, POF1B, POU5F1, REC8, SMC1B). Considering the heterogeneous genetic and familial background of this disorder, we hope that an overview of literature data would reinforce that genetic screening of those patients is worthwhile and helpful for better genetic counseling and patient management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Malheiros França
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas, Disciplina de Endocrinologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Section of Endocrinology Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Berenice Bilharinho Mendonca
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas, Disciplina de Endocrinologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Divya D, Bhattacharya TK. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and their role in poultry. WORLD POULTRY SCI J 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00439339.2021.1959274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- D. Divya
- Molecular Genetics and Breeding Division, ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Hyderabad, India
| | - T. K. Bhattacharya
- Molecular Genetics and Breeding Division, ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Hyderabad, India
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Gough NR, Xiang X, Mishra L. TGF-β Signaling in Liver, Pancreas, and Gastrointestinal Diseases and Cancer. Gastroenterology 2021; 161:434-452.e15. [PMID: 33940008 PMCID: PMC8841117 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2021.04.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Genetic alterations affecting transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling are exceptionally common in diseases and cancers of the gastrointestinal system. As a regulator of tissue renewal, TGF-β signaling and the downstream SMAD-dependent transcriptional events play complex roles in the transition from a noncancerous disease state to cancer in the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and pancreas. Furthermore, this pathway also regulates the stromal cells and the immune system, which may contribute to evasion of the tumors from immune-mediated elimination. Here, we review the involvement of the TGF-β pathway mediated by the transcriptional regulators SMADs in disease progression to cancer in the digestive system. The review integrates human genomic studies with animal models that provide clues toward understanding and managing the complexity of the pathway in disease and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy R. Gough
- The Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research & Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York
| | - Xiyan Xiang
- The Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research & Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York
| | - Lopa Mishra
- The Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research & Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York; Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Surgery, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia.
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Overeem AW, Chang YW, Spruit J, Roelse CM, Chuva De Sousa Lopes SM. Ligand-Receptor Interactions Elucidate Sex-Specific Pathways in the Trajectory From Primordial Germ Cells to Gonia During Human Development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:661243. [PMID: 34222234 PMCID: PMC8253161 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.661243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The human germ cell lineage originates from primordial germ cells (PGCs), which are specified at approximately the third week of development. Our understanding of the signaling pathways that control this event has significantly increased in recent years and that has enabled the generation of PGC-like cells (PGCLCs) from pluripotent stem cells in vitro. However, the signaling pathways that drive the transition of PGCs into gonia (prospermatogonia in males or premeiotic oogonia in females) remain unclear, and we are presently unable to mimic this step in vitro in the absence of gonadal tissue. Therefore, we have analyzed single-cell transcriptomics data of human fetal gonads to map the molecular interactions during the sex-specific transition from PGCs to gonia. The CellPhoneDB algorithm was used to identify significant ligand–receptor interactions between germ cells and their sex-specific neighboring gonadal somatic cells, focusing on four major signaling pathways WNT, NOTCH, TGFβ/BMP, and receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK). Subsequently, the expression and intracellular localization of key effectors for these pathways were validated in human fetal gonads by immunostaining. This approach provided a systematic analysis of the signaling environment in developing human gonads and revealed sex-specific signaling pathways during human premeiotic germ cell development. This work serves as a foundation to understand the transition from PGCs to premeiotic oogonia or prospermatogonia and identifies sex-specific signaling pathways that are of interest in the step-by-step reconstitution of human gametogenesis in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arend W Overeem
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Yolanda W Chang
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Spruit
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Celine M Roelse
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Susana M Chuva De Sousa Lopes
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands.,Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FAST), Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Tang T, Lin Q, Qin Y, Liang X, Guo Y, Cong P, Liu X, Chen Y, He Z. Effects of bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) knockdown on porcine testis morphology and spermatogenesis. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:999-1011. [PMID: 32693912 DOI: 10.1071/rd20056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGFB) superfamily that plays an essential role in mammalian ovary development, oocyte maturation and litter size. However, little is known regarding the expression pattern and biological function of BMP15 in male gonads. In this study we established, for the first time, a transgenic pig model with BMP15 constitutively knocked down by short hairpin (sh) RNA. The transgenic boars were fertile, but sperm viability was decreased. Further analysis of the TGFB/SMAD pathway and markers of reproductive capacity, namely androgen receptor and protamine 2, failed to identify any differentially expressed genes. These results indicate that, in the pig, the biological function of BMP15 in the development of male gonads is not as crucial as in ovary development. However, the role of BMP15 in sperm viability requires further investigation. This study provides new insights into the role of BMP15 in male pig reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Qiyuan Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Yufeng Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Xinyu Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Yang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Peiqing Cong
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Yaosheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; and Corresponding authors. ;
| | - Zuyong He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; and Corresponding authors. ;
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Bmp8a is an essential positive regulator of antiviral immunity in zebrafish. Commun Biol 2021; 4:318. [PMID: 33750893 PMCID: PMC7943762 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-01811-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) is a kind of classical multi-functional growth factor that plays a vital role in the formation and maintenance of bone, cartilage, muscle, blood vessels, and the regulation of adipogenesis and thermogenesis. However, understanding of the role of BMPs in antiviral immunity is still limited. Here we demonstrate that Bmp8a is a newly-identified positive regulator for antiviral immune responses. The bmp8a−/− zebrafish, when infected with viruses, show reduced antiviral immunity and increased viral load and mortality. We also show for the first time that Bmp8a interacts with Alk6a, which promotes the phosphorylation of Tbk1 and Irf3 through p38 MAPK pathway, and induces the production of type I interferons (IFNs) in response to viral infection. Our study uncovers a previously unrecognized role of Bmp8a in regulation of antiviral immune responses and provides a target for controlling viral infection. Zhang, Liu and colleagues identify the role of Bmp8a in antiviral immunity in zebrafish and provide mechanistic insight into its function. Bmp8a could serve as a future target for investigative studies of antiviral immune responses.
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Shah W, Khan R, Shah B, Khan A, Dil S, Liu W, Wen J, Jiang X. The Molecular Mechanism of Sex Hormones on Sertoli Cell Development and Proliferation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:648141. [PMID: 34367061 PMCID: PMC8344352 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.648141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sustaining and maintaining the intricate process of spermatogenesis is liable upon hormones and growth factors acting through endocrine and paracrine pathways. The Sertoli cells (SCs) are the major somatic cells present in the seminiferous tubules and are considered to be the main regulators of spermatogenesis. As each Sertoli cell supports a specific number of germ cells, thus, the final number of Sertoli cells determines the sperm production capacity. Similarly, sex hormones are also major regulators of spermatogenesis and they can determine the proliferation of Sertoli cells. In the present review, we have critically and comprehensively discussed the role of sex hormones and some other factors that are involved in Sertoli cell proliferation, differentiation and maturation. Furthermore, we have also presented a model of Sertoli cell development based upon the recent advancement in the field of reproduction. Hence, our review article provides a general overview regarding the sex hormonal pathways governing Sertoli cell proliferation and development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ranjha Khan
- *Correspondence: Xiaohua Jiang, ; Ranjha Khan, ; Jie Wen,
| | | | | | | | | | - Jie Wen
- *Correspondence: Xiaohua Jiang, ; Ranjha Khan, ; Jie Wen,
| | - Xiaohua Jiang
- *Correspondence: Xiaohua Jiang, ; Ranjha Khan, ; Jie Wen,
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14
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França MM, Funari MFA, Lerario AM, Santos MG, Nishi MY, Domenice S, Moraes DR, Costalonga EF, Maciel GAR, Maciel-Guerra AT, Guerra-Junior G, Mendonca BB. Screening of targeted panel genes in Brazilian patients with primary ovarian insufficiency. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240795. [PMID: 33095795 PMCID: PMC7584253 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a heterogeneous disorder associated with several genes. The majority of cases are still unsolved. Our aim was to identify the molecular diagnosis of a Brazilian cohort with POI. Genetic analysis was performed using a customized panel of targeted massively parallel sequencing (TMPS) and the candidate variants were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Additional copy number variation (CNV) analysis of TMPS samples was performed by CONTRA. Fifty women with POI (29 primary amenorrhea and 21 secondary amenorrhea) of unknown molecular diagnosis were included in this study, which was conducted in a tertiary referral center of clinical endocrinology. A genetic defect was obtained in 70% women with POI using the customized TMPS panel. Twenty-four pathogenic variants and two CNVs were found in 48% of POI women. Of these variants, 16 genes were identified as BMP8B, CPEB1, INSL3, MCM9, GDF9, UBR2, ATM, STAG3, BMP15, BMPR2, DAZL, PRDM1, FSHR, EIF4ENIF1, NOBOX, and GATA4. Moreover, a microdeletion and microduplication in the CPEB1 and SYCE1 genes, respectively, were also identified in two distinct patients. The genetic analysis of eleven patients was classified as variants of uncertain clinical significance whereas this group of patients harbored at least two variants in different genes. Thirteen patients had benign or no rare variants, and therefore the genetic etiology remained unclear. In conclusion, next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a highly effective approach to identify the genetic diagnoses of heterogenous disorders, such as POI. A molecular etiology allowed us to improve the disease knowledge, guide decisions about prevention or treatment, and allow familial counseling avoiding future comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica M. França
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| | - Mariana F. A. Funari
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Antonio M. Lerario
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Mariza G. Santos
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Mirian Y. Nishi
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Laboratório de Sequenciamento em Larga Escala (SELA), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo FMUSP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sorahia Domenice
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniela R. Moraes
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Everlayny F. Costalonga
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Gustavo A. R. Maciel
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Andrea T. Maciel-Guerra
- Departamento de Genética Médica e Medicina Genômica, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gil Guerra-Junior
- Departamento de Pediatria, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Berenice B. Mendonca
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Laboratório de Sequenciamento em Larga Escala (SELA), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo FMUSP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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15
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Xie Y, Wei BH, Ni FD, Yang WX. Conversion from spermatogonia to spermatocytes: Extracellular cues and downstream transcription network. Gene 2020; 764:145080. [PMID: 32858178 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.145080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Spermatocyte (spc) formation from spermatogonia (spg) differentiation is the first step of spermatogenesis which produces prodigious spermatozoa for a lifetime. After decades of studies, several factors involved in the functioning of a mouse were discovered both inside and outside spg. Considering the peculiar expression and working pattern of each factor, this review divides the whole conversion of spg to spc into four consecutive development processes with a focus on extracellular cues and downstream transcription network in each one. Potential coordination among Dmrt1, Sohlh1/2 and BMP families mediates Ngn3 upregulation, which marks progenitor spg, with other changes. After that, retinoic acid (RA), as a master regulator, promotes A1 spg formation with its helpers and Sall4. A1-to-B spg transition is under the control of Kitl and impulsive RA signaling together with early and late transcription factors Stra8 and Dmrt6. Finally, RA and its responsive effectors conduct the entry into meiosis. The systematic transcription network from outside to inside still needs research to supplement or settle the controversials in each process. As a step further ahead, this review provides possible drug targets for infertility therapy by cross-linking humans and mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Xie
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bang-Hong Wei
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fei-Da Ni
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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16
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Transcriptome profiling reveals signaling conditions dictating human spermatogonia fate in vitro. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:17832-17841. [PMID: 32661178 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2000362117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are essential for the generation of sperm and have potential therapeutic value for treating male infertility, which afflicts >100 million men world-wide. While much has been learned about rodent SSCs, human SSCs remain poorly understood. Here, we molecularly characterize human SSCs and define conditions favoring their culture. To achieve this, we first identified a cell-surface protein, PLPPR3, that allowed purification of human primitive undifferentiated spermatogonia (uSPG) highly enriched for SSCs. Comparative RNA-sequencing analysis of these enriched SSCs with differentiating SPG (KIT+ cells) revealed the full complement of genes that shift expression during this developmental transition, including genes encoding key components in the TGF-β, GDNF, AKT, and JAK-STAT signaling pathways. We examined the effect of manipulating these signaling pathways on cultured human SPG using both conventional approaches and single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis. This revealed that GDNF and BMP8B broadly support human SPG culture, while activin A selectively supports more advanced human SPG. One condition-AKT pathway inhibition-had the unique ability to selectively support the culture of primitive human uSPG. This raises the possibility that supplementation with an AKT inhibitor could be used to culture human SSCs in vitro for therapeutic applications.
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17
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Vacca M, Leslie J, Virtue S, Lam BYH, Govaere O, Tiniakos D, Snow S, Davies S, Petkevicius K, Tong Z, Peirce V, Nielsen MJ, Ament Z, Li W, Kostrzewski T, Leeming DJ, Ratziu V, Allison MED, Anstee QM, Griffin JL, Oakley F, Vidal-Puig A. Bone morphogenetic protein 8B promotes the progression of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Nat Metab 2020; 2:514-531. [PMID: 32694734 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-020-0214-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterized by lipotoxicity, inflammation and fibrosis, ultimately leading to end-stage liver disease. The molecular mechanisms promoting NASH are poorly understood, and treatment options are limited. Here, we demonstrate that hepatic expression of bone morphogenetic protein 8B (BMP8B), a member of the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)-BMP superfamily, increases proportionally to disease stage in people and animal models with NASH. BMP8B signals via both SMAD2/3 and SMAD1/5/9 branches of the TGFβ-BMP pathway in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), promoting their proinflammatory phenotype. In vivo, the absence of BMP8B prevents HSC activation, reduces inflammation and affects the wound-healing responses, thereby limiting NASH progression. Evidence is featured in primary human 3D microtissues modelling NASH, when challenged with recombinant BMP8. Our data show that BMP8B is a major contributor to NASH progression. Owing to the near absence of BMP8B in healthy livers, inhibition of BMP8B may represent a promising new therapeutic avenue for NASH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Vacca
- TVP Lab, WT/MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit - Metabolic Research Laboratories, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Department of Biochemistry and Cambridge Systems Biology Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Jack Leslie
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Samuel Virtue
- TVP Lab, WT/MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit - Metabolic Research Laboratories, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Brian Y H Lam
- Yeo Group and Genomics and Transcriptomics Core, WT/MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Olivier Govaere
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Dina Tiniakos
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Department of Pathology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Susan Davies
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kasparas Petkevicius
- TVP Lab, WT/MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit - Metabolic Research Laboratories, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Zhen Tong
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Vivian Peirce
- TVP Lab, WT/MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit - Metabolic Research Laboratories, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Zsuzsanna Ament
- Department of Biochemistry and Cambridge Systems Biology Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Vlad Ratziu
- Sorbonne Université, Institute for Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Michael E D Allison
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, UK
| | - Quentin M Anstee
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Newcastle NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Julian L Griffin
- Department of Biochemistry and Cambridge Systems Biology Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Biomolecular Medicine, Systems Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Fiona Oakley
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Antonio Vidal-Puig
- TVP Lab, WT/MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit - Metabolic Research Laboratories, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Welcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK.
- Cambridge University Nanjing Centre of Technology and Innovation, Jiangbei Area, Nanjing, P R China.
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18
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Funcke JB, Scherer PE. Beyond adiponectin and leptin: adipose tissue-derived mediators of inter-organ communication. J Lipid Res 2019; 60:1648-1684. [PMID: 31209153 PMCID: PMC6795086 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.r094060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The breakthrough discoveries of leptin and adiponectin more than two decades ago led to a widespread recognition of adipose tissue as an endocrine organ. Many more adipose tissue-secreted signaling mediators (adipokines) have been identified since then, and much has been learned about how adipose tissue communicates with other organs of the body to maintain systemic homeostasis. Beyond proteins, additional factors, such as lipids, metabolites, noncoding RNAs, and extracellular vesicles (EVs), released by adipose tissue participate in this process. Here, we review the diverse signaling mediators and mechanisms adipose tissue utilizes to relay information to other organs. We discuss recently identified adipokines (proteins, lipids, and metabolites) and briefly outline the contributions of noncoding RNAs and EVs to the ever-increasing complexities of adipose tissue inter-organ communication. We conclude by reflecting on central aspects of adipokine biology, namely, the contribution of distinct adipose tissue depots and cell types to adipokine secretion, the phenomenon of adipokine resistance, and the capacity of adipose tissue to act both as a source and sink of signaling mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan-Bernd Funcke
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Philipp E Scherer
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
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19
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Mahli A, Seitz T, Beckröge T, Freese K, Thasler WE, Benkert M, Dietrich P, Weiskirchen R, Bosserhoff A, Hellerbrand C. Bone Morphogenetic Protein-8B Expression is Induced in Steatotic Hepatocytes and Promotes Hepatic Steatosis and Inflammation In Vitro. Cells 2019; 8:cells8050457. [PMID: 31096638 PMCID: PMC6562647 DOI: 10.3390/cells8050457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered to be the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome. The bone morphogenetic protein-8B (BMP8B) has been shown to be expressed in brown adipose tissues and the hypothalamus and to affect thermogenesis and susceptibility to diet-induced obesity. Here, we aimed to analyze BMP8B expression in NAFLD and to gain insight into BMP8B effects on pathophysiological steps of NAFLD progression. BMP8B mRNA and protein expression were dose-dependently induced in primary human hepatocytes in vitro upon incubation with fatty acids. Furthermore, hepatic BMP8B expression was significantly increased in a murine NAFLD model and in NAFLD patients compared with controls. Incubation with recombinant BMP8B further enhanced the fatty acid-induced cellular lipid accumulation as well as NFκB activation and pro-inflammatory gene expression in hepatocytes, while siRNA-mediated BMP8B depletion ameliorated these fatty acid-induced effects. Analysis of the expression of key factors of hepatocellular lipid transport and metabolisms indicated that BMP8B effects on fatty acid uptake as well as de novo lipogenesis contributed to hepatocellular accumulation of fatty acids leading to increased storage in the form of triglycerides and enhanced combustion by beta oxidation. In conclusion, our data indicate that BMP8B enhances different pathophysiological steps of NAFLD progression and suggest BMP8B as a promising prognostic marker and therapeutic target for NAFLD and, potentially, also for other chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdo Mahli
- Institute of Biochemistry (Emil-Fischer Zentrum), Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Fahrstr. 17, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Tatjana Seitz
- Institute of Biochemistry (Emil-Fischer Zentrum), Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Fahrstr. 17, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Tobias Beckröge
- Institute of Biochemistry (Emil-Fischer Zentrum), Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Fahrstr. 17, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Kim Freese
- Institute of Biochemistry (Emil-Fischer Zentrum), Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Fahrstr. 17, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | | | - Matthias Benkert
- Institute of Biochemistry (Emil-Fischer Zentrum), Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Fahrstr. 17, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Peter Dietrich
- Institute of Biochemistry (Emil-Fischer Zentrum), Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Fahrstr. 17, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH University Hospital Aachen, D-52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Anja Bosserhoff
- Institute of Biochemistry (Emil-Fischer Zentrum), Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Fahrstr. 17, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Claus Hellerbrand
- Institute of Biochemistry (Emil-Fischer Zentrum), Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Fahrstr. 17, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany.
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20
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Sybirna A, Wong FCK, Surani MA. Genetic basis for primordial germ cells specification in mouse and human: Conserved and divergent roles of PRDM and SOX transcription factors. Curr Top Dev Biol 2019; 135:35-89. [PMID: 31155363 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2019.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are embryonic precursors of sperm and egg that pass on genetic and epigenetic information from one generation to the next. In mammals, they are induced from a subset of cells in peri-implantation epiblast by BMP signaling from the surrounding tissues. PGCs then initiate a unique developmental program that involves comprehensive epigenetic resetting and repression of somatic genes. This is orchestrated by a set of signaling molecules and transcription factors that promote germ cell identity. Here we review significant findings on mammalian PGC biology, in particular, the genetic basis for PGC specification in mice and human, which has revealed an evolutionary divergence between the two species. We discuss the importance and potential basis for these differences and focus on several examples to illustrate the conserved and divergent roles of critical transcription factors in mouse and human germline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiya Sybirna
- Wellcome Trust Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Wellcome Trust/Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
| | - Frederick C K Wong
- Wellcome Trust Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - M Azim Surani
- Wellcome Trust Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Wellcome Trust/Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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21
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Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) constitute the largest subdivision of the transforming growth factor-β family of ligands. BMPs exhibit widespread utility and pleiotropic, context-dependent effects, and the strength and duration of BMP pathway signaling is tightly regulated at numerous levels via mechanisms operating both inside and outside the cell. Defects in the BMP pathway or its regulation underlie multiple human diseases of different organ systems. Yet much remains to be discovered about the BMP pathway in its original context, i.e., the skeleton. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the intricacies of the BMP pathway and its inhibitors in bone development, homeostasis, and disease. We frame the content of the review around major unanswered questions for which incomplete evidence is available. First, we consider the gene regulatory network downstream of BMP signaling in osteoblastogenesis. Next, we examine why some BMP ligands are more osteogenic than others and what factors limit BMP signaling during osteoblastogenesis. Then we consider whether specific BMP pathway components are required for normal skeletal development, and if the pathway exerts endogenous effects in the aging skeleton. Finally, we propose two major areas of need of future study by the field: greater resolution of the gene regulatory network downstream of BMP signaling in the skeleton, and an expanded repertoire of reagents to reliably and specifically inhibit individual BMP pathway components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W Lowery
- Division of Biomedical Science, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine , Indianapolis, Indiana ; and Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Vicki Rosen
- Division of Biomedical Science, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine , Indianapolis, Indiana ; and Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine , Boston, Massachusetts
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22
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Adipocyte-secreted BMP8b mediates adrenergic-induced remodeling of the neuro-vascular network in adipose tissue. Nat Commun 2018; 9:4974. [PMID: 30478315 PMCID: PMC6255810 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-07453-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of brown adipose tissue-mediated thermogenesis is a strategy for tackling obesity and promoting metabolic health. BMP8b is secreted by brown/beige adipocytes and enhances energy dissipation. Here we show that adipocyte-secreted BMP8b contributes to adrenergic-induced remodeling of the neuro-vascular network in adipose tissue (AT). Overexpression of bmp8b in AT enhances browning of the subcutaneous depot and maximal thermogenic capacity. Moreover, BMP8b-induced browning, increased sympathetic innervation and vascularization of AT were maintained at 28 °C, a condition of low adrenergic output. This reinforces the local trophic effect of BMP8b. Innervation and vascular remodeling effects required BMP8b signaling through the adipocytes to 1) secrete neuregulin-4 (NRG4), which promotes sympathetic axon growth and branching in vitro, and 2) induce a pro-angiogenic transcriptional and secretory profile that promotes vascular sprouting. Thus, BMP8b and NRG4 can be considered as interconnected regulators of neuro-vascular remodeling in AT and are potential therapeutic targets in obesity. Enhancing thermogenesis is a promising therapeutic strategy for promoting metabolic health. Here the authors show that adipocyte-secreted BMP8b contributes to optimizing the thermogenic response by remodeling of the neuro-vascular networks in brown and white adipose tissue.
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23
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Xu YR, Wang GY, Zhou YC, Yang WX. The characterization and potential roles of bone morphogenetic protein 7 during spermatogenesis in Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis. Gene 2018; 673:119-129. [PMID: 29890312 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), which belong to the transforming growth factor-β superfamily, have been implicated in various biological and physiological processes, especially in the gonad development. However, scarce studies were focused on the roles of BMPs in the reproductive system of crustaceans. In this study, the whole gene encoding BMP7 protein was cloned and characterized firstly in Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis. The bioinformatics analysis of the deduced amino acid sequence showed that Es-BMP7 was composed of prodomain/latency-associated peptide and the TGF-β characteristic domain. The sequence conservation and phylogenetic analysis were also conducted. Quantitative real-time PCR was conducted indifferent tissues. The highest expression in testis indicated the potential role of BMP7 to male gonad development. Western blot results showed the different translational levels of BMP7 in different tissues. In-situ hybridization revealed that the expression of es-bmp7 signals presented in a bimodal manner: highest in spermatogonia, decreased in spermatocytes and stage I spermatids, disappeared in stage II spermatids, and showed up again in stage III spermatids and mature sperm. To further verify the potential roles during spermatogenesis, immunofluorescence was conducted and results showed the similar expression tendency with in situ hybridization. The protein signal was highest in the cytoplasm of spermatogonia, continued to decline in the cytoplasm of spermatocytes and the following stages, and weak signal was found in the mature sperm. Taken together, our results revealed that Es-BMP7 might play a part in testis development in Eriocheir sinensis, presumably by maintaining the self-renewal of spermatogonia and promoting the germ cell differentiation/meiotic mitosis, or facilitating the successful fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ru Xu
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Gao-Yuan Wang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yi-Chao Zhou
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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24
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Heat stress responses in spermatozoa: Mechanisms and consequences for cattle fertility. Theriogenology 2018; 113:102-112. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2017] [Revised: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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25
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Zhong S, Wang Y, Li J, Wang M, Meng L, Ma Z, Zhang S, Liu Z. Spatial and temporal expression of bmp8a and its role in regulation of lipid metabolism in zebrafish Danio rerio. GENE REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2017.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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26
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Zhang Y, Wang Y, Zuo Q, Li D, Zhang W, Lian C, Tang B, Xiao T, Wang M, Wang K, Li B. Effects of the Transforming Growth Factor Beta Signaling Pathway on the Differentiation of Chicken Embryonic Stem Cells into Male Germ Cells. Cell Reprogram 2017; 18:401-410. [PMID: 27906584 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2016.0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The objectives of the present study were to screen for key gene and signaling pathways involved in the production of male germ cells in poultry and to investigate the effects of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway on the differentiation of chicken embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into male germ cells. The ESCs, primordial germ cells, and spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) were sorted using flow cytometry for RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) technology. Male chicken ESCs were induced using 40 ng/mL of bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4). The effects of the TGF-β signaling pathway on the production of chicken SSCs were confirmed by morphology, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and immunocytochemistry. One hundred seventy-three key genes relevant to development, differentiation, and metabolism and 20 signaling pathways involved in cell reproduction, differentiation, and signal transduction were identified by RNA-seq. The germ cells formed agglomerates and increased in number 14 days after induction by BMP4. During the induction process, the ESCs, Nanog, and Sox2 marker gene expression levels decreased, whereas expression of the germ cell-specific genes Stra8, Dazl, integrin-α6, and c-kit increased. The results indicated that the TGF-β signaling pathway participated in the differentiation of chicken ESCs into male germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yani Zhang
- 1 College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University , Yangzhou, China .,2 Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics , Breeding, Reproduction, and Molecular Design of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yingjie Wang
- 1 College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University , Yangzhou, China .,2 Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics , Breeding, Reproduction, and Molecular Design of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, China
| | - Qisheng Zuo
- 1 College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University , Yangzhou, China .,2 Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics , Breeding, Reproduction, and Molecular Design of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, China
| | - Dong Li
- 1 College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University , Yangzhou, China .,2 Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics , Breeding, Reproduction, and Molecular Design of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, China
| | - Wenhui Zhang
- 1 College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University , Yangzhou, China .,2 Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics , Breeding, Reproduction, and Molecular Design of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, China
| | - Chao Lian
- 1 College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University , Yangzhou, China .,2 Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics , Breeding, Reproduction, and Molecular Design of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, China
| | - Beibei Tang
- 1 College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University , Yangzhou, China .,2 Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics , Breeding, Reproduction, and Molecular Design of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, China
| | - Tianrong Xiao
- 1 College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University , Yangzhou, China .,2 Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics , Breeding, Reproduction, and Molecular Design of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, China
| | - Man Wang
- 1 College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University , Yangzhou, China .,2 Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics , Breeding, Reproduction, and Molecular Design of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, China
| | - Kehua Wang
- 3 Poultry Institute , Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yangzhou, China
| | - Bichun Li
- 1 College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University , Yangzhou, China .,2 Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics , Breeding, Reproduction, and Molecular Design of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, China
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Monsivais D, Matzuk MM, Pangas SA. The TGF-β Family in the Reproductive Tract. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2017; 9:cshperspect.a022251. [PMID: 28193725 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a022251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) family has a profound impact on the reproductive function of various organisms. In this review, we discuss how highly conserved members of the TGF-β family influence the reproductive function across several species. We briefly discuss how TGF-β-related proteins balance germ-cell proliferation and differentiation as well as dauer entry and exit in Caenorhabditis elegans. In Drosophila melanogaster, TGF-β-related proteins maintain germ stem-cell identity and eggshell patterning. We then provide an in-depth analysis of landmark studies performed using transgenic mouse models and discuss how these data have uncovered basic developmental aspects of male and female reproductive development. In particular, we discuss the roles of the various TGF-β family ligands and receptors in primordial germ-cell development, sexual differentiation, and gonadal cell development. We also discuss how mutant mouse studies showed the contribution of TGF-β family signaling to embryonic and postnatal testis and ovarian development. We conclude the review by describing data obtained from human studies, which highlight the importance of the TGF-β family in normal female reproductive function during pregnancy and in various gynecologic pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Stephanie A Pangas
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, Texas 77030
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28
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Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) signaling in animal reproductive system development and function. Dev Biol 2017; 427:258-269. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2017.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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29
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Fattahi A, Latifi Z, Ghasemnejad T, Nejabati HR, Nouri M. Insights into in vitro spermatogenesis in mammals: Past, present, future. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:560-575. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Revised: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Fattahi
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine; Tabriz University of Medical Sciences; Tabriz Iran
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences; Tabriz University of Medical Sciences; Tabriz Iran
| | - Zeinab Latifi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine; Tabriz University of Medical Sciences; Tabriz Iran
| | - Tohid Ghasemnejad
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center; Tabriz University of Medical Sciences; Tabriz Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Nejabati
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center; Tabriz University of Medical Sciences; Tabriz Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences; Tabriz University of Medical Sciences; Tabriz Iran
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30
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Wu FJ, Lin TY, Sung LY, Chang WF, Wu PC, Luo CW. BMP8A sustains spermatogenesis by activating both SMAD1/5/8 and SMAD2/3 in spermatogonia. Sci Signal 2017; 10:10/477/eaal1910. [DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aal1910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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31
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CILLER IM, PALANISAMY SKA, CILLER UA, MCFARLANE JR. Postnatal Expression of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins and Their Receptors in the Mouse Testis. Physiol Res 2016; 65:673-682. [DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
TGF-β superfamily members including bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and their receptors (BMPR-1A, -1B and -2) have been shown to be important for reproductive function in both males and females, while information on the role of BMPs in males is limited. Functional studies on select BMPs and BMP receptors have demonstrated vital roles for these proteins in somatic and germ cell proliferation, steroidogenesis and overall fertility. In order to gain insight into the importance of these genes during postnatal reproductive development in males, our study was undertaken to specify the distribution of BMP and BMPR mRNA in male reproductive and steroidogenic tissues and quantify these genes in the testis using the mouse as our model. We screened testis at two, four, six and eight weeks of age for the expression of ten BMPs and three BMP receptors using RT-qPCR. All three BMP receptor mRNAs – Bmpr1a, Bmpr1b and Bmpr2, and ten BMP mRNAs – Bmp2, Bmp3, Bmp3b, Bmp4, Bmp5, Bmp6, Bmp7, Bmp8a, Bmp8b and Bmp15 were expressed in mouse testis at all stages screened. Testicular expression of genes varied within age groups and at specific developmental stages. Our study establishes an extensive BMP system in mouse reproductive and steroidogenic tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- I. M. CILLER
- Centre for Bioactive Discovery in Health and Ageing, School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
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Meng C, Liu W, Huang H, Wang Y, Chen B, Freeman GJ, Schneyer A, Lin HY, Xia Y. Repulsive Guidance Molecule b (RGMb) Is Dispensable for Normal Gonadal Function in Mice. Biol Reprod 2016; 94:78. [PMID: 26911425 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.135921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling plays an important role in spermatogenesis and follicle development. Our previous studies have shown that repulsive guidance molecule b (RGMb, also known as Dragon) is a coreceptor that enhances BMP2 and BMP4 signaling in several cell types and that RGMb is expressed in spermatocytes and spermatids in the testis and in oocytes of the secondary follicles in the ovary. Here, we demonstrated that specific deletion of Rgmb in germ cells in the testis and ovary did not alter Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation, gonadal structures, and fertility. In addition, ovaries from postnatal global Rgmb knockout mice showed similar structures to the wild-type ovaries. Our results suggest that RGMb is not essential for normal gonadal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenling Meng
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wenjing Liu
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Huihui Huang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Binbin Chen
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gordon J Freeman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alan Schneyer
- Pioneer Valley Life Science Institute and Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - Herbert Y Lin
- Program in Membrane Biology, Center for Systems Biology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yin Xia
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China School of Biomedical Sciences Core Laboratory, The Chinese University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
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33
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Rode K, Sieme H, Richterich P, Brehm R. Characterization of the equine blood-testis barrier during tubular development in normal and cryptorchid stallions. Theriogenology 2015; 84:763-72. [PMID: 26074069 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Revised: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The formation of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) is defined as occurring with the first appearance of spermatocytes at around puberty and is vital for normal spermatogenesis. This barrier between two adjacent Sertoli cells (SCs) consists of a cell junctional protein complex, which includes tight junctions (TJs), adherens junctions, and gap junctions. In many mammalian species, BTB composition has already been investigated, whereas little is known about the equine BTB. In the present study, immunohistochemistry and qualitative Western Blot analysis were used to assess the expression and distribution patterns of the junctional proteins claudin-11 (TJ), zonula occludens-1 (TJ associated), N-cadherin (adherens junctions), and connexin 43 (gap junctions) in equine testes during tubular development and in testes of stallions exhibiting unilateral cryptorchidism. Therefore, testes of 21 warmblood stallions (aged 12 months-11 years) were obtained during routine surgical castration. In the normal adult equine testis, the junctional proteins are localized at the basolateral region of the seminiferous tubules forming a circumferential seal corresponding to the known BTB localization. N-cadherin is additionally expressed along the lateral SC surface. In immature seminiferous cords still lacking a lumen, a diffuse distribution pattern of the junctional proteins throughout the SC cytoplasm is visible. As lumen formation advances, the immunolocalization shifts progressively toward the basolateral SC membranes. Additionally, apoptotic germ cells were detected and quantified in prepubertal stallions using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay and correlated with junctional protein localization. In the retained testis of cryptorchid stallions, which exhibit an aberrant testicular morphology, a deviating expression of the junctional proteins is visible. The present data show for the first time that (1) the equine SC junctional complex contains claudin-11, zonula occludens-1, N-Cadherin, and connexin 43, as already described for men or mice, and that (2) different distribution patterns of these proteins exist during testicular development in the context of lumen formation (lumen scores: 1-7) and in retained testes of unilateral cryptorchid stallions.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Rode
- Department of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - H Sieme
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine, Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - P Richterich
- Tierärztliche Klinik für Pferde auf Boyenstein, Beckum, Germany
| | - R Brehm
- Department of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany.
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Chung D, Gao F, Jegga AG, Das SK. Estrogen mediated epithelial proliferation in the uterus is directed by stromal Fgf10 and Bmp8a. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 400:48-60. [PMID: 25451979 PMCID: PMC4751583 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Revised: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
To define endometrial stromal-derived paracrine mediators that participate in estradiol-17β (E2)-induced epithelial proliferation, microarray analysis of gene expression was carried out in mouse uterine epithelial-stromal co-culture systems under the condition of E2 or vehicle (control). Our results demonstrated gene alteration by E2: in epithelial cells, we found up-regulation of 119 genes and down-regulation of 28 genes, while in stroma cells we found up-regulation of 144 genes and down-regulation of 184 genes. A functional enrichment analysis of the upregulated epithelial genes implicated them for proliferation, while upregulated stromal genes were associated with extracellular functions. Quantitative RT-PCR and in situ hybridization results confirmed differential gene expression in both cell cultures and ovariectomized uteri after the above treatments. Based on our identification of stromal secretory factors, we found evidence that suppression by siRNA specifically for Bmp8a and/or Fgf10 in the stromal layer caused significant inhibition of proliferation by E2 in the co-culture system, suggesting Bmp8a and Fgf10 act as paracrine mediators during E2-dependent control of uterine proliferation. The localization of receptors and receptor activation signaling in epithelial cells in both the co-culture system and uteri was consistent with their involvement in ligand-receptor signaling. Interestingly, loss of Bmp8a or Fgf10 also caused abrogation of E2-regulated epithelial receptor signaling in co-culture systems, suggesting that stroma-derived Fgf10 and Bmp8a are responsible for epithelial communication. Overall, stromal Fgf10 and Bmp8a serve as potential paracrine factors for E2-dependent regulation of epithelial proliferation in the uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daesuk Chung
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; The Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Fei Gao
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; The Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Anil G Jegga
- Biomedical Informatics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Sanjoy K Das
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; The Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
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35
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Medarde N, Merico V, López-Fuster MJ, Zuccotti M, Garagna S, Ventura J. Impact of the number of Robertsonian chromosomes on germ cell death in wild male house mice. Chromosome Res 2015; 23:159-69. [PMID: 25589476 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-014-9442-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 10/06/2014] [Accepted: 10/14/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies in the house mouse have shown that the presence of Robertsonian (Rb) metacentric chromosomes in heterozygous condition affects the process of spermatogenesis. This detrimental effect mainly depends on the number of metacentrics involved and the complexity of the resulting meiotic figures. In this study, we aimed at elucidating the relationship between the chromosomal composition and spermatogenesis impairment in mice present in an area of chromosomal polymorphism (the so-called Barcelona system BRbS) in which Rb mice are surrounded by all acrocentric animals, no established metacentric races are present and the level of structural heterozygosity is relatively low. Using the terminal deoxinucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) assay, we report higher frequency of apoptotic spermatogenetic cells in mice carrying six pairs of metacentrics at the homozygous state than in those carrying two or three fusions at the heterozygous state. Specifically, we detected a higher frequency of TUNEL-positive (T+) tubules and of T+ cells per tubule cross section and also a lower spermatid/spermatocyte ratio. These results indicate that the number of metacentrics at the homozygous state is more influential in determining apoptotic germ cell death than that of moderate chromosome heterozygosity. The percentage of germ cell death lower than 50 % found in our samples and the geographic distribution of the set of metacentrics within the BRbS indicate that although the spermatogenic alterations detected in this area could act as a partial barrier to gene flow, they are not sufficient to prevent Rb chromosomes from spreading in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuria Medarde
- Departament de Biologia Animal, de Biologia Vegetal i d'Ecologia, Facultat de Biociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain,
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36
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Wang RN, Green J, Wang Z, Deng Y, Qiao M, Peabody M, Zhang Q, Ye J, Yan Z, Denduluri S, Idowu O, Li M, Shen C, Hu A, Haydon RC, Kang R, Mok J, Lee MJ, Luu HL, Shi LL. Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) signaling in development and human diseases. Genes Dis 2014; 1:87-105. [PMID: 25401122 PMCID: PMC4232216 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2014.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 658] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMPs) are a group of signaling molecules that belongs to the Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily of proteins. Initially discovered for their ability to induce bone formation, BMPs are now known to play crucial roles in all organ systems. BMPs are important in embryogenesis and development, and also in maintenance of adult tissue homeostasis. Mouse knockout models of various components of the BMP signaling pathway result in embryonic lethality or marked defects, highlighting the essential functions of BMPs. In this review, we first outline the basic aspects of BMP signaling and then focus on genetically manipulated mouse knockout models that have helped elucidate the role of BMPs in development. A significant portion of this review is devoted to the prominent human pathologies associated with dysregulated BMP signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard N. Wang
- The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Jordan Green
- The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Zhongliang Wang
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medicine, and Gynecology, the Affiliated Hospitals of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Youlin Deng
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medicine, and Gynecology, the Affiliated Hospitals of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Min Qiao
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medicine, and Gynecology, the Affiliated Hospitals of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Michael Peabody
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Qian Zhang
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medicine, and Gynecology, the Affiliated Hospitals of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jixing Ye
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- School of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengjian Yan
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medicine, and Gynecology, the Affiliated Hospitals of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Sahitya Denduluri
- The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Olumuyiwa Idowu
- The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Melissa Li
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Christine Shen
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Alan Hu
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Rex C. Haydon
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Richard Kang
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - James Mok
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Michael J. Lee
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Hue L. Luu
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Lewis L. Shi
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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Ghasemzadeh-Hasankolaei M, Sedighi-Gilani MA, Eslaminejad MB. Induction of Ram Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells into Germ Cell Lineage using Transforming Growth Factor-β Superfamily Growth Factors. Reprod Domest Anim 2014; 49:588-598. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- M Ghasemzadeh-Hasankolaei
- Fatemeh-Zahra Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center; Babol University of Medical Sciences; Babol Iran
| | - MA Sedighi-Gilani
- Department of Andrology at Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center; Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology; ACECR; Tehran Iran
| | - MB Eslaminejad
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology at Cell Science Research Center; Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology; ACECR; Tehran Iran
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38
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Haverfield JT, Meachem SJ, Nicholls PK, Rainczuk KE, Simpson ER, Stanton PG. Differential permeability of the blood-testis barrier during reinitiation of spermatogenesis in adult male rats. Endocrinology 2014; 155:1131-44. [PMID: 24424039 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) sequesters meiotic spermatocytes and differentiating spermatids away from the vascular environment. We aimed to assess whether meiosis and postmeiotic differentiation could occur when the BTB is permeable. Using a model of meiotic suppression and reinitiation, BTB function was assessed using permeability tracers of small, medium, and large (0.6-, 70-, and 150-kDa) sizes to emulate blood- and lymphatic-borne factors that could cross the BTB. Adult rats (n = 9/group) received the GnRH antagonist acyline (10 wk) to suppress gonadotropins, followed by testosterone (24cm Silastic implant), for 2, 4, 7, 10, 15, and 35 days. In acyline-suppressed testes, all tracers permeated the seminiferous epithelium. As spermatocytes up to diplotene stage XIII reappeared, both the 0.6- and 70-kDa tracers, but not 150 kDa, permeated around these cells. Intriguingly, the 0.6- and 70-kDa tracers were excluded from pachytene spermatocytes at stages VII and VIII but not in subsequent stages. The BTB became progressively impermeable to the 0.6- and 70-kDa tracers as stages IV-VII round spermatids reappeared in the epithelium. This coincided with the appearance of the tight junction protein, claudin-12, in Sertoli cells and at the BTB. We conclude that meiosis can occur when the BTB is permeable to factors up to 70 kDa during the reinitiation of spermatogenesis. Moreover, BTB closure corresponds with the presence of particular pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. This research has implications for understanding the effects of BTB dynamics in normal spermatogenesis and also potentially in states where spermatogenesis is suppressed, such as male hormonal contraception or infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna T Haverfield
- Prince Henry's Institute (J.T.H., S.J.M., P.K.N., K.E.R., E.R.S., P.G.S.), Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; and Departments of Anatomy and Developmental Biology (J.T.H., S.J.M.) and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (P.K.N., E.R.S., P.G.S.), Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
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Role of Mael in early oogenesis and during germ-cell differentiation from embryonic stem cells in mice in vitro. ZYGOTE 2013; 22:513-20. [DOI: 10.1017/s0967199412000743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
SummaryIn a previous study, we have identified a set of conserved spermatogenic genes whose expression is restricted to testis and ovary and that are developmentally regulated. One of these genes, the transcription factor Mael, has been reported to play an essential role in mouse spermatogenesis. Nevertheless, the role of Mael in mouse oogenesis has not been defined. In order to analyse the role of Mael in mouse oogenesis, the expression of this gene was blocked during early oogenesis in mouse in vitro using RNAi technology. In addition, the role of Mael during differentiation of embryonic stem cells (ESC) into germ cells in vitro was analysed. Results show that downregulation of Mael by a specific short interfering RNA disrupted fetal oocyte growth and differentiation in fetal ovary explants in culture and the expression of several germ-cell markers in ESC during their differentiation. These results suggest that there is an important role for Mael in early oogenesis and during germ-cell differentiation from embryonic stem cells in mouse in vitro.
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Itman C, Loveland KL. Smads and cell fate: Distinct roles in specification, development, and tumorigenesis in the testis. IUBMB Life 2013; 65:85-97. [DOI: 10.1002/iub.1115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 10/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Whittle A, Carobbio S, Martins L, Slawik M, Hondares E, Vázquez M, Morgan D, Csikasz R, Gallego R, Rodriguez-Cuenca S, Dale M, Virtue S, Villarroya F, Cannon B, Rahmouni K, López M, Vidal-Puig A. BMP8B increases brown adipose tissue thermogenesis through both central and peripheral actions. Cell 2012; 149:871-85. [PMID: 22579288 PMCID: PMC3383997 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2012.02.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 440] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2010] [Revised: 12/06/2011] [Accepted: 02/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue (BAT) is fundamental to energy balance and is also relevant for humans. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) regulate adipogenesis, and, here, we describe a role for BMP8B in the direct regulation of thermogenesis. BMP8B is induced by nutritional and thermogenic factors in mature BAT, increasing the response to noradrenaline through enhanced p38MAPK/CREB signaling and increased lipase activity. Bmp8b(-/-) mice exhibit impaired thermogenesis and reduced metabolic rate, causing weight gain despite hypophagia. BMP8B is also expressed in the hypothalamus, and Bmp8b(-/-) mice display altered neuropeptide levels and reduced phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), indicating an anorexigenic state. Central BMP8B treatment increased sympathetic activation of BAT, dependent on the status of AMPK in key hypothalamic nuclei. Our results indicate that BMP8B is a thermogenic protein that regulates energy balance in partnership with hypothalamic AMPK. BMP8B may offer a mechanism to specifically increase energy dissipation by BAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J. Whittle
- Metabolic Research Laboratories, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Stefania Carobbio
- Metabolic Research Laboratories, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Luís Martins
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine-CIMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela-Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
| | - Marc Slawik
- Metabolic Research Laboratories, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität, Munich 80336, Germany
| | - Elayne Hondares
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - María Jesús Vázquez
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine-CIMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela-Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
| | - Donald Morgan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Robert I. Csikasz
- The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm SE-106 91, Sweden
| | - Rosalía Gallego
- Department of Morphological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Sergio Rodriguez-Cuenca
- Metabolic Research Laboratories, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Martin Dale
- Metabolic Research Laboratories, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Samuel Virtue
- Metabolic Research Laboratories, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Francesc Villarroya
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Barbara Cannon
- The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm SE-106 91, Sweden
- The Royal Veterinary College, London NW1 0TU, UK
| | - Kamal Rahmouni
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Miguel López
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine-CIMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela-Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
| | - Antonio Vidal-Puig
- Metabolic Research Laboratories, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
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Jiang R, Wang S, Takahashi K, Fujita H, Fruci CR, Breyer MD, Harris RC, Takahashi T. Generation of a conditional allele for the mouse endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene. Genesis 2012; 50:685-92. [PMID: 22467476 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.22026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2011] [Revised: 03/16/2012] [Accepted: 03/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Mice with endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) deletions have defined the crucial role of eNOS in vascular development, homeostasis, and pathology. However, cell specific eNOS function has not been determined, although an important role of eNOS has been suggested in multiple cell types. Here, we have generated a floxed eNOS allele in which exons 9-12, encoding the sites essential to eNOS activity, are flanked with loxP sites. Mice homozygous for the floxed allele showed normal eNOS protein levels and no overt phenotype. Conversely, homozygous mice with Cre-deleted alleles displayed truncated eNOS protein, lack of vascular NO production, and exhibited similar phenotype to eNOS knockout mice, including hypertension, low heart rate, and focal renal scarring. These findings demonstrate that the floxed allele is normal and it can be converted to a non-functional eNOS allele through Cre recombination. This mouse will allow time- and cell-specific eNOS deletion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosie Jiang
- Division of Nephrology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, USA
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Cayli S, Erdemir F, Ocakli S, Ungor B, Kesici H, Yener T, Aslan H. Interaction between Smad1 and p97/VCP in rat testis and epididymis during the postnatal development. Reprod Sci 2011; 19:190-201. [PMID: 22051847 DOI: 10.1177/1933719111417886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Members of the bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) superfamily are expressed in the testis and epididymis and are believed to have different biological functions during testicular and epididymal development. Smad1 is one of the signal transducers of BMP signaling and binds to several proteins involved in ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). Valosin-containing protein (p97/VCP) is required for the degradation of some UPS substrates. Although p97/VCP has been indicated in different cellular pathways, its association with BMP signaling in male reproductive system has not been elucidated. The aim of the present study was to investigate the cellular localization of Smad1, phospho-Smad1, and p97/VCP and the interaction of proteins in the postnatal rat testis and epididymis. Testicular and epididymal tissues from 5-, 15- and 60-day-old rats were examined by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and immunoprecipitation techniques. In 5-day-old rat testis, Smad1, phospho-Smad1, and p97/VCP were mainly expressed in gonocytes. In 15- and 60-day-old rat testis, proteins were overlapped in spermatogonia, Sertoli cells, and spermatocytes. Expression of proteins in the epithelial cells of epididymis was gradually increased from 5 to 15 days of age. Smad1 and phospho-Smad1 expressions showed uniformity in the different regions of epididymis, however p97/VCP immunoreactivity was higher only in caput epididymis compared to corpus and cauda epididymis in 15- and 60-day-old rat epididymis. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments further confirmed the Smad1-p97/VCP and p-Smad1-p97/VCP interactions. The overlap between Smad1 and p97/VCP expressions in the postnatal rat testis and epididymis suggests that p97/VCP may play important roles in mediating BMP signaling during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevil Cayli
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey.
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Fan YS, Hu YJ, Yang WX. TGF-β superfamily: how does it regulate testis development. Mol Biol Rep 2011; 39:4727-41. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-011-1265-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2011] [Accepted: 09/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Mutation in the type IB bone morphogenetic protein receptor Alk6b impairs germ-cell differentiation and causes germ-cell tumors in zebrafish. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:13153-8. [PMID: 21775673 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1102311108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Germ-cell tumors (GCTs), which arise from pluripotent embryonic germ cells, exhibit a wide range of histologic differentiation states with varying clinical behaviors. Although testicular GCT is the most common cancer of young men, the genes controlling the development and differentiation of GCTs remain largely unknown. Through a forward genetic screen, we previously identified a zebrafish mutant line, tgct, which develops spontaneous GCTs consisting of undifferentiated germ cells [Neumann JC, et al. (2009) Zebrafish 6:319-327]. Using positional cloning we have identified an inactivating mutation in alk6b, a type IB bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) receptor, as the cause of the zebrafish GCT phenotype. Alk6b is expressed in spermatogonia and early oocytes, and alk6b mutant gonads display impaired BMP signal transduction, altered expression of BMP target genes, and abnormal germ-cell differentiation. We find a similar absence of BMP signaling in undifferentiated human GCTs, such as seminomas and embryonal carcinoma, but not in normal testis or in differentiated GCTs. These results indicate a germ-cell-autonomous role for BMP signal transduction in germ-cell differentiation, and highlight the importance of the BMP pathway in human GCTs.
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Zhang L, Tang J, Haines CJ, Feng HL, Lai L, Teng X, Han Y. c-kit and its related genes in spermatogonial differentiation. SPERMATOGENESIS 2011; 1:186-194. [PMID: 22319667 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.1.3.17760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2011] [Revised: 08/13/2011] [Accepted: 08/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is the process of production of male gametes from SSCs. The SSCs are the stem cells that differentiate into male gametes in the testis. in the mean time, the Spg are remarkable for their potential multiple trans-differentiations, which make them greatly invaluable for clinical applications. However, the molecular mechanism controlling differentiation of the Spg is still not clear. Among the discovered spermatogenesis-related genes, c-kit seems to be expressed first by the Spgs thus may play a central role in switching on the differentiation process. Expression of Kit and the activation of the Kit/Kitl pathway coincide with the start of differentiation of Spgs. Several genes have been discovered to be related to the Kit/Kitl pathway. in this review, we have summarized the recent discoveries of c-kit and the Kit/Kitl pathway-related genes in the spermatogenic cells during different stages of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; Prince of Wales Hospital; The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong
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Fustino N, Rakheja D, Ateek CS, Neumann JC, Amatruda JF. Bone morphogenetic protein signalling activity distinguishes histological subsets of paediatric germ cell tumours. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 34:e218-33. [PMID: 21696393 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2011.01186.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Germ cell tumours (GCTs) are cancers of the testis, ovary or extragonadal sites that occur in infants, children and adults. Testicular GCT is the most common cancer in young men aged 15-40 years. Abnormalities in developmental signalling pathways such as wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β/BMP and Hedgehog have been described in many childhood tumours. To date, however, the status of BMP signalling in GCTs has not been described. Herein, we examine BMP-SMAD signalling in a set of clinically-annotated paediatric GCTs. We find that BMP signalling activity is absent in undifferentiated tumours such as seminomas and dysgerminomas, but robustly present in most yolk sac tumours, a differentiated tumour type. Gene expression profiling of TGF-β/BMP pathway genes in germinomas and yolk sac tumours reveals a set of genes that distinguish the two tumour types. There is significant intertumoural heterogeneity between tumours of the same histological subclass, implying that the BMP pathway can be differentially regulated in individual tumours. Finally, through miRNA expression profiling, we identify differential regulation of a set of miRNAs predicted to target the TGF-β/BMP pathway at multiple sites. Taken together, these results suggest that the BMP signalling pathway may represent a new therapeutical target for childhood GCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Fustino
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390-8534, USA
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Lee MH, Kim KW, Morgan CT, Morgan DE, Kimble J. Phosphorylation state of a Tob/BTG protein, FOG-3, regulates initiation and maintenance of the Caenorhabditis elegans sperm fate program. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:9125-30. [PMID: 21571637 PMCID: PMC3107262 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1106027108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
FOG-3, the single Caenorhabditis elegans Tob/BTG protein, directs germ cells to adopt the sperm fate at the expense of oogenesis. Importantly, FOG-3 activity must be maintained for the continued production of sperm that is typical of the male sex. Vertebrate Tob proteins have antiproliferative activity and ERK phosphorylation of Tob proteins has been proposed to abrogate "antiproliferative" activity. Here we investigate FOG-3 phosphorylation and its effect on sperm fate specification. We found both phosphorylated and unphosphorylated forms of FOG-3 in nematodes. We then interrogated the role of FOG-3 phosphorylation in sperm fate specification. Specifically, we assayed FOG-3 transgenes for rescue of a fog-3 null mutant. Wild-type FOG-3 rescued both initiation and maintenance of sperm fate specification. A FOG-3 mutant with its four consensus ERK phosphorylation sites substituted to alanines, called FOG-3(4A), rescued partially: sperm were made transiently but not continuously in both sexes. A different FOG-3 mutant with its sites substituted to glutamates, called FOG-3(4E), had no rescuing activity on its own, but together with FOG-3(4A) rescue was complete. Thus, when FOG-3(4A) and FOG-3(4E) were both introduced into the same animals, sperm fate specification was not only initiated but also maintained, resulting in continuous spermatogenesis in males. Our findings suggest that unphosphorylated FOG-3 initiates the sperm fate program and that phosphorylated FOG-3 maintains that program for continued sperm production typical of males. We discuss implications of our results for Tob/BTG proteins in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myon-Hee Lee
- The Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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Kósa JP, Kis A, Bácsi K, Balla B, Nagy Z, Takács I, Speer G, Lakatos P. The protective role of bone morphogenetic protein-8 in the glucocorticoid-induced apoptosis on bone cells. Bone 2011; 48:1052-7. [PMID: 21277400 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2011.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2010] [Revised: 01/05/2011] [Accepted: 01/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
One of the side effects associated with glucocorticoid therapy is glucocorticoid-induced bone loss. Glucocorticoids partly detain bone formation via the inhibition of osteoblastic function, however, the exact mechanism of this inhibition remains elusive. In this study, we examined the effect of dexamethasone, an active glucocorticoid analogue, on cell viability and expression of bone remodelling-related genes in primary mouse calvarial and cloned MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. Using sensitive biochemical assays, we demonstrated the apoptotic effect of dexamethasone on osteoblastic cells. Then, utilizing Taqman probe-based quantitative RT-PCR technology, gene expression profiles of 111 bone metabolism-related genes were determined. As a result of dexamethasone treatment we have detected significant apoptotic cell death, and six genes, including Smad3, type-2 collagen α-1, type-9 collagen α-1, matrix metalloproteinase-2, bone morphogenetic protein-4 and bone morphogenetic protein-8 showed (BMP-8) significant changes in their expression on a time- and concentration-dependent manner. BMP-8, (a novel player in bone-metabolism) exhibited a two orders of magnitude elevation in its mRNA level and highly elevated protein concentration by Western blot in response to dexamethasone treatment. The knockdown of BMP-8 by RNA interference significantly increased dexamethasone-induced cell death, confirming a protective role for BMP-8 in the glucocorticoid-induced apoptosis of osteoblasts. Our results suggest that BMP-8 might be an essential player in bone metabolism, especially in response to glucocorticoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- János P Kósa
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine of Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
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