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Katleba K, Legacki E, Berger T. Expression of CSF1, AR, and SRD5A2 during Postnatal Development of the Boar Reproductive Tract. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12172167. [PMID: 36077888 PMCID: PMC9454667 DOI: 10.3390/ani12172167] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Understanding the initial development of the male reproductive system, including the prostate, should provide insight into malfunctions in the adult male. Although changes in circulating androgens during development are characterized in multiple species, potential changes in the androgen receptor, in the enzyme that converts testosterone to the presumably more potent dihydrotestosterone, and in colony stimulating factor 1, a critical mediator of macrophage influence on organ development, were previously unknown and anticipated to be influenced by androgens and estrogens. Gene expression in the testis, prostate, and seminal vesicles of these three mediators of development, including responses to reduced testosterone or estrogens, were evaluated. Each of these three genes had a unique temporal pattern of expression during postnatal reproductive tract development. However, surprisingly minimal effects of altered steroid signaling were reported on the expression of these presumed pivotal genes. Abstract The male reproductive system develops from a minimally functioning gonad and nonfunctioning accessory sex glands in the neonate; sex steroids, presumed to be primary influencers of these changes, have been characterized in multiple species. This study focused on the expression of the androgen receptor as the principal mediator of androgen-induced signaling; the 5α reductase enzyme that converts testosterone to the more active dihydrotestosterone; and colony stimulating factor 1, a mediator of macrophage influence on organ development in the pig. The time points chosen to evaluate normal developmental changes during the juvenile and prepubertal intervals included the inflection time points of 6.5 weeks of age at the nadir of circulating estradiol and testosterone concentrations in juveniles, and 11 weeks of age, when these concentrations begin to increase. The role of sex steroid signaling in the regulation of gene expression was evaluated by the blockade of androgen and estrogen receptors and reduction in endogenous estrogens. Expression of colony stimulating factor 1 in the testes gradually decreased during development; developmental profiles in the prostate and seminal vesicles were clearly different. Interference with sex steroid signaling had no effect on the expression of these three genes in testicular tissue and minimal and transient effects in prostate and seminal vesicles.
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Pawlicki P, Galuszka A, Pardyak L, Tuz R, Płachno BJ, Malopolska M, Dubniewicz K, Yang P, Kotula-Balak M, Tarasiuk K. Leydig Cells in Immunocastrated Polish Landrace Pig Testis: Differentiation Status and Steroid Enzyme Expression Status. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:6120. [PMID: 35682797 PMCID: PMC9181736 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Porker immunocastration against gonadoliberin (GnRH) secretion has been utilized since 2009; however, consumers are still skeptical of it. This is due to not having full information available on the problem of a boar taint, as well as a lack of research on morphological and molecular changes that may occur in the animal reproductive system and other body systems. The present study aimed to explore the functional status of steroidogenic Leydig cells of the testicular interstitial tissue in immunocastrated Polish Landrace pigs. Analyses were performed using Western blot, immunohistochemistry for relaxin (RLN), insulin-like 3 protein (INSL3), pelleted growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα), cytochrome P450scc, 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (3β-HSD, 17β-HSD), cytochrome P450arom, and 5α-reductase (5α-RED). Immunoassay ELISA was used to measure the androstenone, testosterone, and estradiol levels in the testis and serum of immunocastrates. We revealed disturbances in the distribution and expression of (i) RLN, indicating an inflammatory reaction in the interstitial tissue; (ii) INSL3 and PDGFRα, indicating alterations in the differentiation and function of fetal, perinatal, or adult Leydig cell populations; (iii) P450scc, 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD, P450arom, and 5α-RED, indicating disturbances in the sex steroid hormone production and disturbed functional status of Leydig cells; as well as (iv) decreased levels of androstenone, testosterone, and estradiol in testicular tissue and serum, indicating the dedicated action of Improvac to reduce boar taint at both the hypothalamic-hypophysis-gonadal axis and local level (Leydig cells). In summary, our study provides a significant portion of knowledge on the function of Leydig cells after immunocastration, which is also important for the diagnosis and therapy of testis dysfunction due to GnRH action failure and/or Leydig cell differentiational-functional alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Pawlicki
- Center of Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Redzina 1c, 30-248 Krakow, Poland; (P.P.); (L.P.)
| | - Anna Galuszka
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Preclinical Sciences, University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UA, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Laura Pardyak
- Center of Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Redzina 1c, 30-248 Krakow, Poland; (P.P.); (L.P.)
| | - Ryszard Tuz
- Department of Genetics, Animal Breeding and Ethology, Faculty of Animal Science, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059, Krakow, Poland;
| | - Bartosz J. Płachno
- Department of Plant Cytology and Embryology, Institute of Botany, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Martyna Malopolska
- Department of Pig Breeding, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1, 32-083 Balice, Poland;
| | - Klaudia Dubniewicz
- Department of Infectious Diseases of Animals and Food Hygiene, University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UA, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059 Krakow, Poland; (K.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Ping Yang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210009, China;
| | - Malgorzata Kotula-Balak
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Preclinical Sciences, University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UA, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Kazimierz Tarasiuk
- Department of Infectious Diseases of Animals and Food Hygiene, University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UA, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059 Krakow, Poland; (K.D.); (K.T.)
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3
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Brzoskwinia M, Pardyak L, Kaminska A, Tworzydlo W, Hejmej A, Marek S, Bilinski SM, Bilinska B. Flutamide treatment reveals a relationship between steroidogenic activity of Leydig cells and ultrastructure of their mitochondria. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13772. [PMID: 34215832 PMCID: PMC8253797 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93292-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Our present knowledge on interrelation between morphology/ultrastructure of mitochondria of the Leydig cell and its steroidogenic function is far from satisfactory and needs additional studies. Here, we analyzed the effects of blockade of androgen receptor, triggered by exposure to flutamide, on the expression of steroidogenic proteins (1) and ultrastructure of Leydig cells' constituents (2). We demonstrated that increase in the expression level of steroidogenic (StAR, CYP11A1, 3β-HSD, and CYP19A1) proteins (and respective mRNAs) in rat testicular tissue as well as elevation of intratesticular sex steroid hormone (testosterone and estradiol) levels observed in treated animals correspond well to morphological alterations of the Leydig cell ultrastructure. Most importantly, up-regulation of steroidogenic proteins' expression apparently correlates with considerable multiplication of Leydig cell mitochondria and subsequent formation of local mitochondrial networks. Interestingly, we showed also that the above-mentioned processes were associated with elevated transcription of Drp1 and Mfn2 genes, encoding proteins implicated in mitochondrial dynamics. Collectively, our studies emphasize the importance of mitochondrial homeostasis to the steroidogenic function of Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malgorzata Brzoskwinia
- Department of Endocrinology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Laura Pardyak
- Center of Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-248, Kraków, Poland
| | - Alicja Kaminska
- Department of Endocrinology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Wacław Tworzydlo
- Department of Developmental Biology and Invertebrate Morphology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Hejmej
- Department of Endocrinology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Sylwia Marek
- Department of Endocrinology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Szczepan M Bilinski
- Department of Developmental Biology and Invertebrate Morphology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Barbara Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387, Kraków, Poland.
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4
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Souza APB, Lopes TN, da Silva AFT, Santi L, Beys-da-Silva WO, Yates JR, Bustamante-Filho IC. Changes in porcine cauda epididymal fluid proteome by disrupting the HPT axis: Unveiling potential mechanisms of male infertility. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:952-965. [PMID: 32749760 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility or subfertility is frequently associated with disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testis axis events, like secondary hypogonadism. However, little is known how this condition affects the proteomic composition of the epididymal fluid. In the present study, we evaluated the proteomic changes in the cauda epididymal fluid (CEF) in a swine model of secondary hypogonadism induced by anti-GnRH immunization using multidimensional protein identification technology. Seven hundred and eighteen proteins were identified in both GnRH-immunized and control groups. GnRH immunization doubled the number of proteins in the CEF, with 417 proteins being found exclusively in samples from GnRH-immunized boars. CEF from GnRH-immunized boars presented an increase in the number of proteins related to cellular and metabolic processes, with affinity to organic cyclic compounds, small molecules, and heterocyclic compounds, as well changed the enzymatic profile of the CEF. Also, a significant increase in the number of proteins associated to the ubiquitin-proteasome system was identified in CEF from GnRH-immunized animals. These results bring strong evidence of the impact of secondary hypogonadism on the epididymal environment, which is responsible for sperm maturation and storage prior ejaculation. Finally, the differently expressed proteins in the CEF are putative seminal biomarkers for testicular and epididymal disorders caused by secondary hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana P B Souza
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari-Univates, Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Tayná N Lopes
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari-Univates, Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Anna F T da Silva
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari-Univates, Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Lucélia Santi
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Walter O Beys-da-Silva
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - John R Yates
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California
| | - Ivan C Bustamante-Filho
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari-Univates, Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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5
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Brzoskwinia M, Pardyak L, Rak A, Kaminska A, Hejmej A, Marek S, Kotula-Balak M, Bilinska B. Flutamide Alters the Expression of Chemerin, Apelin, and Vaspin and Their Respective Receptors in the Testes of Adult Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4439. [PMID: 32580404 PMCID: PMC7378763 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Adipokines influence energy metabolism and have effects on male reproduction, including spermatogenesis and/or Sertoli cell maturation; however, the relationship between these active proteins and androgens in testicular cells is limited. Here, we studied the impact of short-term exposure to flutamide (an anti-androgen that blocks androgen receptors) on the expression of chemerin, apelin, vaspin and their receptors (CCRL2, CMKLR1, GPR1, APLNR, GRP78, respectively) in adult rat testes. Moreover, the levels of expression of lipid metabolism-modulating proteins (PLIN1, perilipin1; TSPO, translocator protein) and intercellular adherens junction proteins (nectin-2 and afadin) were determined in testicular cells. Plasma levels of adipokines, testosterone and cholesterol were also evaluated. Gene expression techniques used included the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blot (WB) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The androgen-mediated effects observed post-flutamide treatment were found at the gonadal level as chemerin, apelin, and vaspin gene expression alterations at mRNA and protein levels were detected, whereas the cellular targets for these adipokines were recognised by localisation of respective receptors in testicular cells. Plasma concentrations of all adipokines were unchanged, whereas plasma cholesterol content and testosterone level increased after flutamide exposure. Differential distribution of adipokine receptors indicates potential para- or autocrine action of the adipokines within the rat testes. Additionally, changes in the expression of PLIN1 and TSPO, involved in the initial step of testosterone synthesis in Leydig cells, suggest that testicular cells represent a target of flutamide action. Increase in the gene expression of PLIN1 and TSPO and higher total plasma cholesterol content indicates enhanced availability of cholesterol in Leydig cells as a result of androgen-mediated effects of flutamide. Alterations in adherens junction protein expression in the testis confirm the flutamide efficacy in disruption of androgen signalling and presumably lead to impaired para- and autocrine communication, important for proper functioning of adipokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malgorzata Brzoskwinia
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland; (M.B.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (A.H.); (S.M.)
| | - Laura Pardyak
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland; (M.B.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (A.H.); (S.M.)
| | - Agnieszka Rak
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Alicja Kaminska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland; (M.B.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (A.H.); (S.M.)
| | - Anna Hejmej
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland; (M.B.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (A.H.); (S.M.)
| | - Sylwia Marek
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland; (M.B.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (A.H.); (S.M.)
| | - Malgorzata Kotula-Balak
- University Centre of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-059 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Barbara Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland; (M.B.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (A.H.); (S.M.)
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6
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Pardyak L, Kaminska A, Brzoskwinia M, Hejmej A, Kotula-Balak M, Jankowski J, Ciereszko A, Bilinska B. Differential expression of cell-cell junction proteins in the testis, epididymis, and ductus deferens of domestic turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) with white and yellow semen. Poult Sci 2020; 99:555-566. [PMID: 32416842 PMCID: PMC7587856 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pez494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tight, adherens, and gap junctions are involved in the regulation of reproductive tissue function in male mammals. In birds, including domestic turkeys, intercellular interactions performed by junctional networks have not yet been studied. Furthermore, the cellular and molecular basis of yellow semen syndrome (YSS) in the turkey population remains poorly understood. Thus, the aim of the present study was 2-fold: first, to provide new information on the localization and expression of cell-cell junction proteins in the testis, epididymis, and ductus deferens of domestic turkeys and second, to compare expression of junctional protein genes between 2 turkey population, one that produces white normal semen (WNS) and the other that produces yellow abnormal semen. Expression of occludin, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), connexin 43 (Cx43), N- and E-cadherin, and β-catenin genes were investigated using 3 complementary techniques: quantitative real-time PCR, western blot, and immunohistochemistry. Compared to WNS testis, epididymis, and ductus deferens, YSS tissues exhibited downregulation of occludin and β-catenin mRNA (P < 0.05) and protein (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) and upregulation of N- and E-cadherin mRNA (P < 0.001, P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively) and protein (P < 0.01, P < 0.05, and P < 0.05, respectively). In contrast, ZO-1 and Cx43 mRNA and protein were upregulated in YSS testis (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively) but not in epididymis and ductus deferens; both mRNAs and proteins were downregulated (P < 0.05) compared to the respective WNS epididymis and ductus deferens. Altered staining intensity of immunoreactive proteins in YSS vs. WNS reproductive tissue sections confirmed the gene expression results. The present study is the first to demonstrate altered levels of junctional protein gene expression in reproductive tissues of male YSS turkeys. These findings may suggest that subtle changes in junctional protein expression affect the microenvironment in which spermatozoa develop and mature and thus may have an impact on the appearance of yellow semen in domestic turkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Pardyak
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - A Kaminska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - M Brzoskwinia
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - A Hejmej
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - M Kotula-Balak
- University Centre of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
| | - J Jankowski
- Department of Poultry Science, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-957 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - A Ciereszko
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, 10-243 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - B Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland.
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7
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Scarano WR, Pinho CF, Pissinatti L, Gonçalves BF, Mendes LO, Campos SG. Cell junctions in the prostate: an overview about the effects of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCS) in different experimental models. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 81:147-154. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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8
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Cyr DG, Dufresne J, Gregory M. Cellular junctions in the epididymis, a critical parameter for understanding male reproductive toxicology. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 81:207-219. [PMID: 30130578 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Epididymal sperm maturation is a critical aspect of male reproduction in which sperm acquire motility and the ability to fertilize an ovum. Sperm maturation is dependent on the creation of a specific environment that changes along the epididymis and which enables the maturation process. The blood-epididymis barrier creates a unique luminal micro-environment, different from blood, by limiting paracellular transport and forcing receptor-mediated transport of macromolecules across the epididymal epithelium. Direct cellular communication between cells allows coordinated function of the epithelium. A limited number of studies have directly examined the effects of toxicants on junctional proteins and barrier function in the epididymis. Effects on the integrity of the blood-epididymis barrier have resulted in decreased fertility and, in some cases, the development of sperm granulomas. Studies have shown that in addition to tight junctions, proteins implicated in the maintenance of adherens junctions and gap junctions alter epididymal functions. This review will provide an overview of the types and roles of cellular junctions in the epididymis, and how these are targeted by different toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, Québec, H7V 1B7, Canada.
| | - Julie Dufresne
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, Québec, H7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Mary Gregory
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, Québec, H7V 1B7, Canada
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9
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Zimmer B, Tenbusch L, Klymiuk MC, Dezhkam Y, Schuler G. SULFATION PATHWAYS: Expression of SULT2A1, SULT2B1 and HSD3B1 in the porcine testis and epididymis. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 61:M41-M55. [PMID: 29588428 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In the porcine testis, in addition to estrogen sulfates, the formation of numerous sulfonated neutral hydroxysteroids has been observed. However, their functions and the underlying synthetic pathways are still widely unclear. To obtain further information on their formation in postpubertal boars, the expression of sulfotransferases considered relevant for neutral hydroxysteroids (SULT2A1, SULT2B1) was investigated in the testis and defined segments of the epididymis applying real-time RT-qPCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Sulfotransferase activities were assessed in tissue homogenates or cytosolic preparations applying dehydroepiandrosterone and pregnenolone as substrates. A high SULT2A1 expression was confirmed in the testis and localized in Leydig cells by IHC. In the epididymis, SULT2A1 expression was virtually confined to the body. SULT2B1 expression was absent or low in the testis but increased significantly along the epididymis. Immunohistochemical observations indicate that both enzymes are secreted into the ductal lumen via an apocrine mechanism. The results from the characterization of expression patterns and activity measurements suggest that SULT2A1 is the prevailing enzyme for the sulfonation of hydroxysteroids in the testis, whereas SULT2B1 may catalyze the formation of sterol sulfates in the epididymis. In order to obtain information on the overall steroidogenic capacity of the porcine epididymis, the expression of important steroidogenic enzymes (CYP11A1, CYP17A1, CYP19, HSD3B1, HSD17B3, SRD5A2) was monitored in the defined epididymal segments applying real-time RT-qPCR. Surprisingly, in addition to a high expression of SRD5A2 in the epididymal head, a substantial expression of HSD3B1 was detected, which increased along the organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Zimmer
- Veterinary Clinic for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - L Tenbusch
- Veterinary Clinic for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - M C Klymiuk
- Veterinary Clinic for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Y Dezhkam
- Veterinary Clinic for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - G Schuler
- Veterinary Clinic for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
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10
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Pardyak L, Kaminska A, Brzoskwinia M, Hejmej A, Kotula-Balak M, Jankowski J, Ciereszko A, Bilinska B. Differences in aromatase expression and steroid hormone concentrations in the reproductive tissues of male domestic turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) with white and yellow semen. Br Poult Sci 2018; 59:591-603. [PMID: 29848062 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2018.1483576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
1. To show hormonal differences between male turkeys with yellow semen syndrome (YSS) and white, normal semen (WNS), the expression of aromatase, oestrogen receptor α (ERα), and oestrogen receptor β (ERβ) as well as testosterone and oestradiol concentrations in YSS and WNS testes, epididymis, and ductus deferens were examined. 2. To measure gene expression levels of aromatase and oestrogen receptors (ERs), three complementary techniques (real-time PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry) were used, whereas steroid hormone levels were determined radio-immunologically. 3. Upregulation of aromatase and ERα mRNAs in YSS testes (P < 0.05; P < 0.01), epididymis (P < 0.001; P < 0.001), and ductus deferens (P < 0.05; P < 0.01) compared to those of WNS tissues was detected. Significant increases in the levels of aromatase and ERα proteins were detected in YSS testes (P < 0.001; P < 0.05), epididymis (P < 0.001; P < 0.001), and ductus deferens (P < 0.001; P < 0.05). The expression of ERβ mRNA and protein level was upregulated in the testes (P < 0.05; P < 0.01) and epididymis (P < 0.001; P < 0.01) but not in ductus deferens where it was downregulated (P < 0.01; P < 0.01). Increased intensity of immunoreactive proteins in YSS versus WNS reproductive tissues corroborated gene expression results. 4. Testosterone concentration diminished in YSS epididymis (P < 0.05) and ductus deferens (P < 0.05), but not in the testes, remaining at high level (P < 0.05) compared to WNS values. Concomitantly, increased oestradiol concentration was found in YSS testes (P < 0.05) and epididymis (P < 0.05) but decreased in the ductus deferens (P < 0.05). 5. From the published literature, this study is the first to demonstrate the ability for androgen aromatisation in the turkey reproductive tissues and to show the cellular targets for locally produced oestrogens. The data suggested that the androgen/oestrogen ratio is a mechanistic basis for amplification of differences between turkeys with white and yellow semen and that these results can have a relevance in applied sciences to widen the knowledge on domestic bird reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Pardyak
- a Department of Endocrinology , Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow , Krakow , Poland
| | - A Kaminska
- a Department of Endocrinology , Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow , Krakow , Poland
| | - M Brzoskwinia
- a Department of Endocrinology , Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow , Krakow , Poland
| | - A Hejmej
- a Department of Endocrinology , Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow , Krakow , Poland
| | - M Kotula-Balak
- a Department of Endocrinology , Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow , Krakow , Poland
| | - J Jankowski
- b Department of Poultry Science, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering , University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn , Olsztyn , Poland
| | - A Ciereszko
- c Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology , Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences , Olsztyn , Poland
| | - B Bilinska
- a Department of Endocrinology , Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow , Krakow , Poland
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Hejmej A, Bilinska B. The effects of flutamide on cell-cell junctions in the testis, epididymis, and prostate. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 81:1-16. [PMID: 29958919 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we summarize recent findings on the effect of the anti-androgen flutamide on cell-cell junctions in the male reproductive system. We outline developmental aspects of flutamide action on the testis, epididymis, and prostate, and describe changes in junction protein expression and organization of junctional complexes in the adult boar following prenatal and postnatal exposure. We also discuss findings on the mechanisms by which flutamide induces alterations in cell-cell junctions in reproductive tissues of adult males, with special emphasis on cytoplasmic effects. Based on the results from in vivo and in vitro studies in the rat, we propose that flutamide affects the expression of junction proteins and junction complex structure not only by inhibiting androgen receptor activity, but equally important by modulating protein kinase-dependent signaling in testicular cells. Additionally, results from studies on prostate cancer cell lines point to a role for the cellular molecular outfit in response to flutamide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hejmej
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Barbara Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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Lee KH. Expressional Changes of Connexin Isoform Genes in the Rat Caput Epididymis Exposed to Flutamide or Estradiol Benzoate at the Early Postnatal Age. Dev Reprod 2017; 21:317-325. [PMID: 29082347 PMCID: PMC5651698 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2017.21.3.317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Revised: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Direct communication between neighboring cells through connexin
(Cx)-based gap junction is a crucial biolo–gical manner to
regulate functions of a tissue consisting of multi-cell types. The present
research evaluated expressional changes of Cx isoforms in the
caput epididymis of adult rat exposed to estradiol benzoate (EB) or flutamide
(Flu) at the early postnatal age. A single subcutaneous administration of EB at
a low-dose [0.015 µg /kg body weight (BW)] or a high-dose (1.5 µg/kg BW) or Flu
at a low-dose (500 µg/kg BW) or a high-dose (5 mg/kg BW) was performed to an
animal at 1 week of age. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis was employed to
determine expressional changes of Cx isoforms. The transcript
levels of Cxs30.3 and 37 were decreased by a low-dose EB
treatment, while decreases of Cxs31, 31.1, 32, 40, and 45
transcript levels were observed with a low-dose EB treatment. The treatment of a
high-dose EB resulted in expressional reduction of Cxs30.3, 31,
31.1, 37, 40, 43, and 45. The Flu treatment at a low dose caused increases of
Cxs26, 37, and 40 transcript levels but decreases of
Cxs31.1, 43, and 45 transcript levels. Increases of
Cxs30.3, 31, 37, and 40 mRNA amounts were induced by a
high-dose Flu treatment. However, exposure to a high-dose Flu produced
expressional decreases of Cxs31.1, 32, and 43 in the adult
caput epididymis. These observations suggest that exposure to EB or Flu at the
neonatal period could lead to aberrant expression of Cx
isoforms in the adult caput epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Ho Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 301-746, Korea
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Anti-androgen 2-hydroxyflutamide modulates cadherin, catenin and androgen receptor phosphorylation in androgen-sensitive LNCaP and androgen-independent PC3 prostate cancer cell lines acting via PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK1/2 pathways. Toxicol In Vitro 2017; 40:324-335. [PMID: 28163245 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2017.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2016] [Revised: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate rapid effect of anti-androgen 2-hydroxyflutamide (HF) on cadherin/catenin complex and androgen receptor (AR) phosphorylation in prostate cancer cell lines. In addition, a role of PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK1/2 pathways in mediating these effects was explored. We have demonstrated that in androgen-sensitive LNCaP cells HF induced rapid increase of E-cadherin phosphorylation at Ser 838/840 (p<0.05) in MAPK/ERK1/2-dependent manner, whereas phosphorylation of β-catenin at Tyr 654 was unchanged. Concomitantly, the reduction of the level of AR phosphorylated at Ser210/213 was found (p<0.01). In androgen-independent PC3 cells HF decreased Tyr 860 N-cadherin and Tyr 645 β-catenin phosphorylation (p<0.01), acting via both MAPK/ERK1/2 and PI3K/Akt pathways. Further, we evidenced that MAPK/ERK1/2 and PI3K/Akt pathways were differentially influenced by HF in LNCaP and PC3 cells. In LNCaP cells, both Akt (p<0.01) and ERK1/2 (p<0.001) phosphorylation were negatively regulated and this effect was mediated by Raf-1 (p<0.05). In contrast, in PC3 cells HF stimulated Akt (p<0.001) and ERK1/2 (p<0.001) activation, but had no effect on the crosstalk between PI3K/Akt and MEK/ERK1/2 pathways at the Raf-1 kinase level. Our findings expand the role of anti-androgen into non-genomic signaling, creating a link between anti-androgen action and phosphorylation of adherens junction proteins in prostate cancer cells.
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Lee KH. Effects of Exposure to Estradiol Benzoate or Flutamide at the Weaning Age on Expression of Connexins in the Caudal Epididymis of Adult Rat. Dev Reprod 2016; 20:349-357. [PMID: 28144639 PMCID: PMC5270609 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2016.20.4.349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The present research was chiefly designed to determine the effect of the treatment of estrogenic
agonist, estradiol benzoate (EB), or antiandrogenic compound, flutamide (Flu), at the weaning age on
the expression of connexin (Cx) isoforms in the caudal epididymis of adult male
rat. Animals were subcutaneously administrated with a single shot of either EB at a low-dose (0.015
µg of EB/kg body weight (BW)) or a high-dose (1.5 µg of EB/kg BW) or Flu at a low-dose (500 µg of
EB/kg BW) or a high-dose (5 mg of EB/kg BW). Expressional changes of Cx isoforms in
the adult caudal epididymis were examined by quantitative real-time PCR analysis. The treatment of a
low-dose EB caused significant increases of Cx30.3, Cx31,
Cx32, and Cx43 transcript levels but reduction of
Cx31.1, Cx37, and Cx45 expression. Exposure
to a high-dose EB resulted in very close responses observed in a low-dose EB treatment, except no
significant expressional change of Cx37 and a significant induction of
Cx40. Expression of all Cx isoforms, except
Cx45, was significantly increased by a low-dose Flu treatment. Expressional
increases of all Cx isoforms were detected by a high-dose Flu treatment. The
current study demonstrates that a single exposure to estrogenic or antiandrogenic compound during
the early postnatal developmental period is sufficient to disrupt normal expression of
Cx isoforms in the adult caudal epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Ho Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 301-746, Korea
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15
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Lee KH. Modification of Gene Expression of Connexins in the Rat Corpus Epididymis by Estradiol Benzoate or Flutamide Exposure at the Early Neonatal Age. Dev Reprod 2016; 19:69-77. [PMID: 27004263 PMCID: PMC4801050 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2015.19.2.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Cell-cell direct communication through channel-forming molecules, connexin (Cx), is essential for a tissue to exchange signaling molecules between neighboring cells and establish unique functional characteristics during postnatal development. The corpus epididymis is a well-known androgen-responsive tissue and involves in proper sperm maturation. In the present research, it was attempted to determine if expression of Cx isoforms in the corpus epididymis in the adult is modulated by exposure to estrogenic or anti-androgenic compound during the early postnatal period. The neonatal male rats at 7 days of age were subcutaneously injected by estradiol benzoate (EB) at low-dose (0.015 mg/kg body weight) or high-dose (1.5 mg/kg body weight) or flutamide (Flu) at low-dose (500 mg/kg body weight) or high-dose (50 mg/kg body weight). The corpus epididymis collected at 4 months of age was subjected to evaluate expressional changes of Cx isoforms by quantitative real-time PCR. Treatment of low-dose EB resulted in increases of Cx32, Cx37, and Cx45 transcript levels, while exposure to high-dose EB decreased expression of Cx26, Cx30.3, Cx31, Cx31.1, Cx32, Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45. Treatments of Flu caused significant decreases of expression of all examined Cx isoforms, except Cx37 and Cx43 shown no expressional change with high-dose Flu treatment. These findings imply that expression of most Cx isoforms present in the corpus epididymis would be transcriptionally regulated by actions of androgen and/or estrogen during postnatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Ho Lee
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 301-746, Korea
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Lee SK, Lee KH. Aberrant Expression of Connexin Isoforms in the Corpus Epididymis of the Adult Rat by Exposure to Estradiol Benzoate or Flutamide at the Weaning Age. Dev Reprod 2016; 19:217-26. [PMID: 26973973 PMCID: PMC4786483 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2015.19.4.217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
A proper development of the epididymis during the early postnatal development is required for successful fertility in the adult male. Direct cell-cell communication via connexin (Cx) molecules is a common way of cellular interactions to achieve normal development of a given tissue consisting of different cell types. The present research was attempted to determine the effect of exogenous exposure to estrogenic agonist or antiandrogen at the weaning age on expression of Cx isoforms in the adult corpus epididymis. Male rats were subcutaneously administrated with estradiol benzoate (EB) or flutamide (Flu) at the weaning age. The tissue was collected at 4 months of age. Expressional levels of Cx isoforms were determined by a quantitative real-time PCR. Statistical comparison showed significant increases of Cxs31, 32, 37, 40, and 43 transcript amounts by a treatment of 0.015 mg of EB /kg body weight (BW). A treatment of 1.5 μg of EB /kg BW caused a significant decrease of Cx43 gene expression but increases of Cxs26, 31, 32, 37, and 40 transcript levels. Exposure to 500 mg of Flu/kg BW induced an increase of Cx37 expression but significant decreases of Cxs43 and 45 mRNA levels. Expression of Cx37 was increased by a treatment of 5 mg of Flu/kg BW, while transcript levels of Cxs26, 30.3, 31, 31.1, 32, and 43 were significantly decreased by same treatment. These results demonstrate that exposure to steroidal compounds at the early developmental age alters expression of Cx isoforms in the adult corpus epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong-Kyu Lee
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 301-746, Korea
| | - Ki-Ho Lee
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 301-746, Korea
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Chojnacka K, Zarzycka M, Hejmej A, Mruk DD, Gorowska E, Kotula-Balak M, Klimek M, Bilinska B. Hydroxyflutamide affects connexin 43 via the activation of PI3K/Akt-dependent pathway but has no effect on the crosstalk between PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2 pathways at the Raf-1 kinase level in primary rat Sertoli cells. Toxicol In Vitro 2016; 31:146-57. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2015.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Revised: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Vazquez-Levin MH, Marín-Briggiler CI, Caballero JN, Veiga MF. Epithelial and neural cadherin expression in the mammalian reproductive tract and gametes and their participation in fertilization-related events. Dev Biol 2015; 401:2-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2014.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2014] [Revised: 12/23/2014] [Accepted: 12/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Zarzycka M, Chojnacka K, Mruk D, Gorowska E, Hejmej A, Kotula-Balak M, Pardyak L, Bilinska B. Flutamide alters the distribution of c-Src and affects the N-cadherin-β-catenin complex in the seminiferous epithelium of adult rat. Andrology 2015; 3:569-81. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Revised: 01/28/2015] [Accepted: 02/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Zarzycka
- Department of Endocrinology; Institute of Zoology; Jagiellonian University; Krakow Poland
| | - K. Chojnacka
- Department of Endocrinology; Institute of Zoology; Jagiellonian University; Krakow Poland
| | - D.D. Mruk
- Center for Biomedical Research; Population Council; New York City New York USA
| | - E. Gorowska
- Department of Endocrinology; Institute of Zoology; Jagiellonian University; Krakow Poland
| | - A. Hejmej
- Department of Endocrinology; Institute of Zoology; Jagiellonian University; Krakow Poland
| | - M. Kotula-Balak
- Department of Endocrinology; Institute of Zoology; Jagiellonian University; Krakow Poland
| | - L. Pardyak
- Department of Endocrinology; Institute of Zoology; Jagiellonian University; Krakow Poland
| | - B. Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology; Institute of Zoology; Jagiellonian University; Krakow Poland
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Hydroxyflutamide alters the characteristics of live boar spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2014; 82:988-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Revised: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Pereira MFN, Fernandes SAF, Nascimento AR, Siu ER, Hess RA, Oliveira CA, Porto CS, Lazari MFM. Effects of the oestrogen receptor antagonist Fulvestrant on expression of genes that affect organization of the epididymal epithelium. Andrology 2014; 2:559-71. [PMID: 24782439 DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2014.00219.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2014] [Revised: 03/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The role of oestrogens in epididymal function is still unclear. Knockout of the oestrogen receptor ESR1 (Esr1(-/-) ) or treatment with the anti-oestrogen Fulvestrant affect epididymal milieu and sperm motility. We investigated the effect of in vivo treatment of rats with Fulvestrant on: (i) expression of genes that may be important for the architecture and function of the epididymal epithelium: prominins 1 and 2, metalloproteinase 7, claudin 7, beta-catenin and cadherin 13, and (ii) levels of oestradiol and testosterone, and expression of oestrogen and androgen receptors, in the initial segment (IS), caput, corpus and cauda epididymis. Fulvestrant (i) reduced gene expression of prominin 1 (variant 1) in the caput, reduced prominin 1 protein content in the caput epididymis and in the efferent ductules, and increased the localization of prominin 1 in microvilli of the caput and corpus; (ii) reduced gene expression of prominin 2 in the corpus and cauda epididymis; (iii) increased the metalloproteinase 7 content in the apical region of principal cells from IS/caput; (iv) reduced in the corpus epididymis, but increased in the efferent ductules, the cadherin 13 mRNA level; (v) reduced testosterone but increased oestradiol levels in the corpus and cauda; (vi) increased the androgen receptor protein content in all regions of the epididymis, and the oestrogen receptor GPER in the corpus and cauda epididymis. In conclusion, treatment with Fulvestrant induced regional-specific changes in hormonal and steroid receptor content, and affected expression of proteins important for epithelial organization and absorption/secretion. The mechanisms of oestrogen action may differ among epididymal regions, which may contribute to determine region-specific sperm functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F N Pereira
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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