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Chen C, Zhang Z, Gu X, Sheng X, Xiao L, Wang X. Exosomes: New regulators of reproductive development. Mater Today Bio 2023; 19:100608. [PMID: 36969697 PMCID: PMC10034510 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are a subtype of extracellular vesicles (EVs) with a size range between 30 and 150 nm, which can be released by the majority of cell types and circulate in body fluid. They function as a long-distance cell-to-cell communication mechanism that modulates the gene expression profile and fate of target cells. Increasing evidence has indicated exosomes' central role in regulating various complex reproductive processes. However, to our knowledge, a review that focally and vividly describes the role of exosomes in reproductive development is still lacking. This review highlights our knowledge about the contribution of exosomes to early mammalian reproduction, such as gametogenesis, fertilization, early embryonic development, implantation, placentation and pregnancy. The discussion is primarily drawn from literature pertaining to the mammalian lineage with emphasis on the roles of exosomes in human reproduction and laboratory and livestock models.
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Goss DM, Vasilescu SA, Sacks G, Gardner DK, Warkiani ME. Microfluidics facilitating the use of small extracellular vesicles in innovative approaches to male infertility. Nat Rev Urol 2023; 20:66-95. [PMID: 36348030 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-022-00660-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Sperm are transcriptionally and translationally quiescent and, therefore, rely on the seminal plasma microenvironment for function, survival and fertilization of the oocyte in the oviduct. The male reproductive system influences sperm function via the binding and fusion of secreted epididymal (epididymosomes) and prostatic (prostasomes) small extracellular vesicles (S-EVs) that facilitate the transfer of proteins, lipids and nucleic acids to sperm. Seminal plasma S-EVs have important roles in sperm maturation, immune and oxidative stress protection, capacitation, fertilization and endometrial implantation and receptivity. Supplementing asthenozoospermic samples with normospermic-derived S-EVs can improve sperm motility and S-EV microRNAs can be used to predict non-obstructive azoospermia. Thus, S-EV influence on sperm physiology might have both therapeutic and diagnostic potential; however, the isolation of pure populations of S-EVs from bodily fluids with current conventional methods presents a substantial hurdle. Many conventional techniques lack accuracy, effectiveness, and practicality; yet microfluidic technology has the potential to simplify and improve S-EV isolation and detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale M Goss
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- IVF Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Steven A Vasilescu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- NeoGenix Biosciences pty ltd, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gavin Sacks
- IVF Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David K Gardner
- Melbourne IVF, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Majid E Warkiani
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Belardin LB, Légaré C, Sullivan R, Belleannée C, Breton S. Expression of the pro-inflammatory P2Y14 receptor in the non-vasectomized and vasectomized human epididymis. Andrology 2022; 10:1522-1539. [PMID: 36029226 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vasectomy causes spermatozoa accumulation in the epididymis, which may cause epididymitis. Inflammation is triggered by alert molecules released following tissue stress or injury. These include UDP-glucose, which activates the pro-inflammatory P2Y14 receptor (P2Y14), and induces immune cell recruitment. However, little is known about P2Y14 in the epididymis and its potential activation following vasectomy. OBJECTIVES (i) to localize P2Y14 in the human excurrent duct; and (ii) to examine the effect of vasectomy on P2Y14 protein and P2RY14 mRNA content, the production of selected cytokines and chemokines, and immune cell recruitment in the epididymis. MATERIAL AND METHODS in situ hybridization, qRT-PCR, western blotting, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were performed in banked human epididymis samples. RESULTS P2RY14 mRNA and P2Y14 protein were detected in epithelial cells in the efferent duct, epididymis and vas deferens in non-vasectomized men. Keratin 5 (KRT5)-positive basal cells were strongly labeled for P2Y14 in all epididymal segments. A progressive apical localization was detected in principal cells (negative for the proton pump V-ATPase) from the corpus to the cauda. A subset of V-ATPase-positive clear cells also showed strong P2Y14 labeling. Vasectomy induced an increase in P2RY14 mRNA in the corpus and cauda, and stronger apical labeling in principal cells in the corpus. CXCL10 mRNA increased in the cauda and CCL2 mRNA decreased in the corpus of vasectomized versus non-vasectomized men. No change in IL-8 and IL-1β mRNA was detected. Numerous CD45+ leukocytes were detected in the interstitium of the corpus and cauda following vasectomy, while only a few were seen in non-vasectomized men. Several CD45+ leukocytes, some of which containing spermatozoa, were detected in the corpus lumen following vasectomy. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Our study indicates that vasectomy-induced spermatozoa congestion may lead to an inflamed-prone local environment characterized by potential activation of P2Y14 and recruitment of immune cells in the epididymis. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Berloffa Belardin
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, and Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Christine Légaré
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, and Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Robert Sullivan
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, and Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Clémence Belleannée
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, and Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, and Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
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4
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Gahlay GK, Rajput N. The enigmatic sperm proteins in mammalian fertilization: an overview†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:1171-1185. [PMID: 32761117 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization involves a physical interaction between a sperm and an egg followed by molecular interactions amongst their various cell surface molecules. These interactions are initially mediated on the egg's outermost matrix, zona pellucida (ZP), and then its plasma membrane. To better understand this process, it is pertinent to find the corresponding molecules on sperm that interact with ZP or the egg's plasma membrane. Although currently, we have some knowledge about the binding partners for egg's plasma membrane on sperm, yet the ones involved in an interaction with ZP have remained remarkably elusive. This review provides comprehensive knowledge about the various sperm proteins participating in mammalian fertilization and discusses the possible reasons for not being able to identify the strong sperm surface candidate (s) for ZP adhesion. It also hypothesizes the existence of a multi-protein complex(s), members of which participate in oviduct transport, cumulus penetration, zona adhesion, and adhesion/fusion with the egg's plasma membrane; with some protein(s) having multiple roles during this process. Identification of these proteins is crucial as it improves our understanding of the process and allows us to successfully treat infertility, develop contraceptives, and improve artificial reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gagandeep Kaur Gahlay
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, India
| | - Neha Rajput
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, India
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Mei S, Chen P, Lee CL, Zhao W, Wang Y, Lam KKW, Ho PC, Yeung WSB, Fang C, Chiu PCN. The role of galectin-3 in spermatozoa-zona pellucida binding and its association with fertilization in vitro. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 25:458-470. [PMID: 31194867 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaz030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human spermatozoa can fertilize an oocyte only after post-testicular maturation and capacitation. These processes involve dynamic modification and reorganization of the sperm plasma membrane, which allow them to bind to the zona pellucida (ZP) of the oocyte. Defective sperm-ZP binding is one of the major causes of male subfertility. Galectin-3 is a secretory lectin in human seminal plasma well known for its action on cell adhesion. The aim of this study was to determine the role of galectin-3 in spermatozoa-ZP interaction and its association with fertilization rate in clinical assisted reproduction. Our studies revealed that the acrosomal region of ejaculated and capacitated spermatozoa possess strong galectin-3 immunoreactivity, which is much stronger than that of epididymal spermatozoa. Expression of galectin-3 can also be detected on seminal plasma-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) and can be transferred to the sperm surface. Blocking of sperm surface galectin-3 function by antibody or carbohydrate substrate reduced the ZP-binding capacity of spermatozoa. Purified galectin-3 is capable of binding to ZP, indicating that galectin-3 may serve as a cross-linking bridge between ZP glycans and sperm surface glycoproteins. Galectin-3 levels in seminal plasma-derived EVs were positively associated with fertilization rates. These results suggest that galectin-3 in EVs is transferred to the sperm surface during post-testicular maturation and plays a crucial role in spermatozoa-ZP binding after capacitation. Reduced galectin-3 expression in seminal plasma-derived EVs may be a cause behind a low fertilization rate. Further studies with more clinical samples are required to confirm the relationship between galectin-3 levels and IVF outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Mei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Panyu Chen
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hostpital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weie Zhao
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Kevin K W Lam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hostpital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Pak-Chung Ho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hostpital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hostpital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cong Fang
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hostpital, Shenzhen, China
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Sullivan R, Légaré C, Lamontagne‐Proulx J, Breton S, Soulet D. Revisiting structure/functions of the human epididymis. Andrology 2019; 7:748-757. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Sullivan
- Department Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Faculty Medicine Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
- Reproduction, Mother and Youth Health Division Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec‐Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
| | - C. Légaré
- Department Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Faculty Medicine Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
- Reproduction, Mother and Youth Health Division Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec‐Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
| | - J. Lamontagne‐Proulx
- Faculty Pharmacy Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
- Neurosciences Division Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec‐Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
| | - S. Breton
- Massachusetts General Hospital Harvard Medical School Boston MA USA
| | - D. Soulet
- Faculty Pharmacy Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
- Neurosciences Division Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec‐Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
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Abstract
Today, a vast arsenal of contraceptive methods interfering at different levels of the female reproductive axis is available. This is not the case for men for whom, until now, there is no reliable male reversible method and for whom vasectomy, condom and withdrawal are the only options available. Despite this limited supply, more than one third of all contraceptive methods used worldwide rely on the cooperation of the male partner. Besides developing hormonal approaches to stop sperm production, there may be attractive approaches that will interfere with sperm functions rather than production. Sperm functions are primarily established during post-testicular maturation, with the epididymis accounting for the majority. The purpose of this review is to present some of the promising and/or already abandoned leads that emerge from research efforts targeting the epididymis and its activities as potential means to achieve male post-meiotic contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joël R. Drevet
- Laboratoire GReD “Génétique, Reproduction & Développement”, UMR CNRS 6293, INSERM U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne (UCA), 28-Place Henri Dunant, bâtiment CRBC, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
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Akintayo A, Légaré C, Sullivan R. Dicarbonyl L-xylulose reductase (DCXR), a "moonlighting protein" in the bovine epididymis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0120869. [PMID: 25815750 PMCID: PMC4376396 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
During maturation and the acquisition of their fertilization potential, male germ cells are subjected to various sequential modifications that occur in the epididymis. Protein addition, reorganization or withdrawal, comprise some of these modifications. Dicarbonyl L-xylulose reductase (DCXR), a multifunctional protein involved in various enzymatic and protein interaction processes in different physiological systems, is one of the proteins added to spermatozoa in the epididymis. DCXR is a well-conserved protein with multiple characteristics including enzymatic activities and mediation of cell-cell interaction. In this study, we characterized the DCXR gene and protein expression in the bovine epididymis. Dicarbonyl L-xylulose reductase mRNA is differentially expressed in the caput, corpus, and cauda epididymide epithelial cells with a higher level observed in the cauda region. Tissue protein expression follows the same pattern as the corresponding mRNA expression with a cytoplasmic and apical distribution in the corpus and cauda epithelial cells, respectively. The protein can also be found with a nuclear localization in cauda epididymidis epithelial cells. Dicarbonyl L-xylulose reductase is secreted in the epididymis luminal compartment in the soluble fraction and is associated with microvesicular elements named epididymosomes. In spermatozoa, the DCXR protein was found in the cytoplasmic and membranous fractions. Expression of the DCXR protein is higher on caput spermatozoa but finally shows a weak detection in semen. These data describe DCXR in the bovine epididymis and reveal that its behavior differs from that found in humans. It seems that, in this model, the DCXR protein might have a questionable involvement in the fertilization process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayodélé Akintayo
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec, Département d’Obstétrique, Gynécologie et Reproduction, Université Laval, Faculté de Medicine, Québec, Canada
| | - Christine Légaré
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec, Département d’Obstétrique, Gynécologie et Reproduction, Université Laval, Faculté de Medicine, Québec, Canada
| | - Robert Sullivan
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec, Département d’Obstétrique, Gynécologie et Reproduction, Université Laval, Faculté de Medicine, Québec, Canada
- * E-mail:
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9
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Leir SH, Browne JA, Eggener SE, Harris A. Characterization of primary cultures of adult human epididymis epithelial cells. Fertil Steril 2014; 103:647-54.e1. [PMID: 25542823 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Revised: 10/26/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish cultures of epithelial cells from all regions of the human epididymis to provide reagents for molecular approaches to functional studies of this epithelium. DESIGN Experimental laboratory study. SETTING University research institute. PATIENT(S) Epididymis from seven patients undergoing orchiectomy for suspected testicular cancer without epididymal involvement. INTERVENTION(S) Human epididymis epithelial cells harvested from adult epididymis tissue. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Establishment of a robust culture protocol for adult human epididymal epithelial cells. RESULT(S) Cultures of caput, corpus, and cauda epithelial cells were established from epididymis tissue of seven donors. Cells were passaged up to eight times and maintained differentiation markers. They were also cryopreserved and recovered successfully. Androgen receptor, clusterin, and cysteine-rich secretory protein 1 were expressed in cultured cells, as shown by means of immunofluorescence, Western blot, and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The distribution of other epididymis markers was also shown by means of qRT-PCR. Cultures developed transepithelial resistance (TER), which was androgen responsive in the caput but androgen insensitive in the corpus and cauda, where unstimulated TER values were much higher. CONCLUSION(S) The results demonstrate a robust in vitro culture system for differentiated epithelial cell types in the caput, corpus, and cauda of the human epididymis. These cells will be a valuable resource for molecular analysis of epididymis epithelial function, which has a pivotal role in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Hsing Leir
- Human Molecular Genetics Program, Lurie Children's Research Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - James A Browne
- Human Molecular Genetics Program, Lurie Children's Research Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Scott E Eggener
- Section of Urology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ann Harris
- Human Molecular Genetics Program, Lurie Children's Research Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois.
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10
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Albumin is synthesized in epididymis and aggregates in a high molecular mass glycoprotein complex involved in sperm-egg fertilization. PLoS One 2014; 9:e103566. [PMID: 25084016 PMCID: PMC4118885 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0103566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2013] [Accepted: 07/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The epididymis has an important role in the maturation of sperm for fertilization, but little is known about the epididymal molecules involved in sperm modifications during this process. We have previously described the expression pattern for an antigen in epididymal epithelial cells that reacts with the monoclonal antibody (mAb) TRA 54. Immunohistochemical and immunoblotting analyses suggest that the epitope of the epididymal antigen probably involves a sugar moiety that is released into the epididymal lumen in an androgen-dependent manner and subsequently binds to luminal sperm. Using column chromatography, SDS-PAGE with insitu digestion and mass spectrometry, we have identified the protein recognized by mAb TRA 54 in mouse epididymal epithelial cells. The ∼65 kDa protein is part of a high molecular mass complex (∼260 kDa) that is also present in the sperm acrosomal vesicle and is completely released after the acrosomal reaction. The amino acid sequence of the protein corresponded to that of albumin. Immunoprecipitates with anti-albumin antibody contained the antigen recognized by mAb TRA 54, indicating that the epididymal molecule recognized by mAb TRA 54 is albumin. RT-PCR detected albumin mRNA in the epididymis and fertilization assays invitro showed that the glycoprotein complex containing albumin was involved in the ability of sperm to recognize and penetrate the egg zona pellucida. Together, these results indicate that epididymal-derived albumin participates in the formation of a high molecular mass glycoprotein complex that has an important role in egg fertilization.
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Frapsauce C, Pionneau C, Bouley J, Delarouziere V, Berthaut I, Ravel C, Antoine JM, Soubrier F, Mandelbaum J. Proteomic identification of target proteins in normal but nonfertilizing sperm. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:372-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2013] [Revised: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 04/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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12
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Chiu PCN, Lam KKW, Wong RCW, Yeung WSB. The identity of zona pellucida receptor on spermatozoa: an unresolved issue in developmental biology. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2014; 30:86-95. [PMID: 24747367 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Revised: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian oocytes are surrounded by an acellular zona pellucida (ZP). Fertilization begins when a capacitated spermatozoon binds to the ZP. Defective sperm-ZP interaction is a cause of male infertility and reduced fertilization rates in clinical assisted reproduction treatment. Despite the importance of spermatozoa-ZP binding, the mechanisms and regulation of the interaction are unclear partly due to the failure in the identification of ZP receptor on spermatozoa. Most of the previous studies assumed that the sperm ZP receptor is a single molecular species, and a number of potential candidates had been suggested. Yet none of them can be considered as the sole sperm ZP receptor. Accumulated evidence suggested that the sperm ZP receptor is a dynamic multi-molecular structure requiring coordinated action of different proteins that are assembled into a functional complex during post-testicular maturation and capacitation. The complex components may include carbohydrate-binding, protein-binding and acrosomal matrix proteins which work as a suite to mediate spermatozoa-ZP interaction. This article aims to review the latest insights in the identification of the sperm ZP receptor. Continued investigation of the area will provide considerable understanding of the regulation of fertilization that will be useful for practical application in human contraception and reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China; Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kevin K W Lam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Rachel C W Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China; Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China.
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13
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Ebert B, Kisiela M, Maser E. Human DCXR - another ‘moonlighting protein’ involved in sugar metabolism, carbonyl detoxification, cell adhesion and male fertility? Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2014; 90:254-78. [DOI: 10.1111/brv.12108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2013] [Revised: 02/21/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Ebert
- Institute of Toxicology and Pharmacology for Natural Scientists, University Medical School Schleswig-Holstein; Brunswiker Str. 10 24105 Kiel Germany
| | - Michael Kisiela
- Institute of Toxicology and Pharmacology for Natural Scientists, University Medical School Schleswig-Holstein; Brunswiker Str. 10 24105 Kiel Germany
| | - Edmund Maser
- Institute of Toxicology and Pharmacology for Natural Scientists, University Medical School Schleswig-Holstein; Brunswiker Str. 10 24105 Kiel Germany
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14
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Removal of GPI-anchored membrane proteins causes clustering of lipid microdomains in the apical head area of porcine sperm. Theriogenology 2014; 81:613-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Revised: 11/25/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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15
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Arrotéia KF, Joazeiro PP, Yamada AT, Tanaka H, Nishimune Y, Pereira LAV. Identification and Characterization of an Antigen Recognized by Monoclonal Antibody TRA 54 in Mouse Epididymis and Vas Deferens. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 25:914-21. [PMID: 15477363 DOI: 10.1002/j.1939-4640.2004.tb03161.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Spermatozoa in testicular fluid are known to have weak forward motility and cannot fertilize eggs. The epididymis is known to participate in sperm maturation leading fertilization, but little is known about the specific epididymal molecules involved in the modification of sperm. In this study, we characterized the new pattern of expression of an antigen previously identified in testicular germ cells by monoclonal antibody (mAb) TRA 54. This antigen is expressed in epididymal and vas deferens epithelial cells in mice older than 24 days but not during younger developmental stages. Evaluation by immunohistochemistry shows that antigen expression is limited to the cytoplasm of a specific cell population of epithelia along the epididymal regions and vas deferens of adult mice. The molecules synthesized and released by epididymal and vas deferens epithelia into their lumen seem to bind on spermatozoa moving down through the ducts. Immunoblot analysis showed that the molecules recognized by mAb TRA 54 in testis and epididymis were similar and share a common epitope involving carbohydrate domains. Interestingly, the antigens identified in epididymal and vas deferens epithelial cells were expressed independently of testicular germ cells and are produced in an androgen-dependent manner. Finally, the molecules recognized by mAb TRA 54 seem to play an important role in spermatogenesis, as well as in epididymal function related to spermatozoa maturation and ability to fertilize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kélen F Arrotéia
- Laboratory of Cytochemistry and Immunocytochemistry, Department of Histology and Embryology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), PO Box 6109, 13083-970, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Légaré C, Verville N, Sullivan R. Vasectomy Influences Expression of HE1 but not HE2 and HE5 Genes in Human Epididymis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 25:30-43. [PMID: 14662784 DOI: 10.1002/j.1939-4640.2004.tb02756.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Epididymal roles include protection and transport, maturation, and storage of the sperm cells. It is known that these functions are altered under vasectomy, but the consequences of excurrent duct obstruction on the pattern of gene expression along the human epididymis are poorly documented. In order to understand how excurrent duct occlusion affects different epididymal regions, the expression pattern of genes known to be expressed in specific epididymal segments was investigated along the epididymides of vasectomized men. Selected human epididymal complementary DNAs (cDNAs) identified by differential library screening were studied because of their unique messenger RNA (mRNA) distribution along the different epididymal segments. In situ hybridization as well as immunohistologic studies were undertaken to investigate the effect of vasectomy on a gene expressed all along the epididymis (HE1) or more selectively in the proximal (HE2) or distal (HE5) segment. The HE1 transcript was affected by the obstruction of the epididymis with little or no mRNA detectable along the epididymis. The HE1-related antigen was shown by immunohistochemical methods to be reduced within the epithelium of the epididymis of vasectomized men. By contrast, HE5 mRNA and protein, expressed in epithelial cells of the distal epididymis, were not affected by the obstruction of the vas deferens. Similarly, HE2 transcriptional and translational products normally expressed in the caput epididymidis were not affected by vasectomy. These results show that excurrent duct obstruction differentially affects the expression pattern of some specific transcripts and their encoded proteins, probably impairing their fundamental roles in the physiology of the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Légaré
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Ste-Foy, Québec, Canada
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Les approches épididymaires de la contraception masculine. Basic Clin Androl 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s12610-012-0186-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Résumé
L’offre en matière de moyens contraceptifs masculins est limitée et, en particulier, à ce jour il n’existe pas de contraception hormonale masculine sur le marché. L’épididyme, dans lequel les spermatozoïdes acquièrent leurs capacités fécondantes et où ils sont stockés, s’avère être un site intéressant à cibler. Cette revue vise à présenter de façon synthétique les quelques pistes prometteuses qui ont émergé ces dernières années.
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Lachance C, Leclerc P. Mediators of the Jak/STAT signaling pathway in human spermatozoa. Biol Reprod 2011; 85:1222-31. [PMID: 21880948 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.092379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In their journey to acquire the ability to fertilize the egg, numerous intracellular signaling systems are activated in spermatozoa, leading to an increase in protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Although the JAK/STAT signaling pathway is usually associated with the activation of transcription of specific genes, our laboratory previously demonstrated the presence of the IL6 receptor (IL6R) and the Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) in human spermatozoa, a cell that is mostly transcriptionally inactive. In order to determine the importance of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, our objectives were to identify and characterize the mediators of this system in human sperm. Cell fractionation and surface biotinylation assays clearly demonstrated that IL6R is expressed at the sperm membrane surface. The kinase JAK1 is enriched in membrane fractions and is activated during human sperm capacitation as suggested by its increase in phosphotyrosine content. Many signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins are expressed in human sperm, including STAT1, STAT3, STAT4, STAT5, and STAT6. Among them, only STAT1 and STAT5 were detected in the cytosolic fraction. All the detected STAT proteins were enriched in the cytoskeletal structures. STAT4 was present in the perinuclear theca, whereas JAK1, STAT1, and STAT5 were detected in the fibrous sheath. Indirect immunofluorescence studies showed that JAK1 and STAT1 colocalized in the neck region and that STAT4 is present at the equatorial segment and flagella. The presence of STAT proteins in sperm structural components suggests that their role is different from their well-known transcription factor activity in somatic cells, but further investigations are required to determine their role in sperm function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Lachance
- Département d'Obstétrique et de Gynécologie, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Université Laval, Unité de recherche en Ontogénie et Reproduction, Centre de recherche du CHUQ-CHUL, Québec, Québec, Canada
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19
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Frenette G, Girouard J, D'Amours O, Allard N, Tessier L, Sullivan R. Characterization of Two Distinct Populations of Epididymosomes Collected in the Intraluminal Compartment of the Bovine Cauda Epididymis1. Biol Reprod 2010; 83:473-80. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.082438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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20
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Glucose-regulated protein precursor (GRP78) and tumor rejection antigen (GP96) are unique to hamster caput epididymal spermatozoa. Asian J Androl 2010; 12:344-55. [PMID: 20400973 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The immotile testicular mammalian spermatozoon gets transformed into a motile spermatozoon during 'epididymal maturation'. During this process, the spermatozoa transit from the caput to the cauda epididymis and undergo a number of distinct morphological, biophysical and biochemical changes, including changes in protein composition and protein modifications, which may be relevant to the acquisition of motility potential. The present proteome-based study of the hamster epididymal spermatozoa of caput and cauda led to the identification of 113 proteins spots using Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization tandem mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS/MS) analysis. Comparison of these 113 protein spots indicated that 30 protein spots (corresponding to 20 proteins) were significantly changed in intensity. Five proteins were increased and eleven were decreased in intensity in the cauda epididymal spermatozoa. In addition, two proteins, glucose-regulated protein precursor (GRP78) and tumor rejection antigen (GP96), were unique to the caput epididymal spermatozoa, while one protein, fibrinogen-like protein 1, was unique to cauda epididymal spermatozoa. A few of the five proteins, which increased in intensity, were related to sperm metabolism and ATP production during epididymal maturation. The changes in intensity of a few proteins such as ERp57, GRP78, GP96, Hsp60, Hsp70, and dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase were validated by immunoblotting. The present study provides a global picture of the changes in protein composition occurring during hamster sperm epididymal maturation, besides being the first ever report on the proteome of hamster spermatozoa.
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Thimon V, Calvo E, Koukoui O, Légaré C, Sullivan R. Effects of Vasectomy on Gene Expression Profiling along the Human Epididymis1. Biol Reprod 2008; 79:262-73. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.107.066449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Moskovtsev SI, Jarvi K, Légaré C, Sullivan R, Mullen JBM. Epididymal P34H protein deficiency in men evaluated for infertility. Fertil Steril 2007; 88:1455-7. [PMID: 17434498 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.12.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2006] [Revised: 12/20/2006] [Accepted: 12/20/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Our study aimed to compare the frequency of epididymal protein P34H deficiency in a population of men undergoing routine infertility evaluation with that in men with proven fertility. Our results suggest that a significant proportion of men investigated for male infertility may be epididymal protein P34H deficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey I Moskovtsev
- Andrology Laboratory, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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24
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Abstract
The gametes of man and some other Eutheria have been manipulated successfully for practical reasons, but many gaps remain in our basic understanding of the way that they function. This situation stems not least from a failure to recognize the extent to which eutherian spermatozoa and eggs, and elements related to their operation, have come to differ from those of other groups. Novel features in the male that reflect this include a radical design of the sperm head with the acrosome seeming to function primarily in egg-coat binding rather than its lysis, a multifaceted post-testicular sperm maturation and an androgen/low-temperature-regulated system of sperm storage--both tied to the epididymis, a variable male accessory sex gland complex, and descent of the testis and epididymis to a scrotum. In the female, such novelties are represented in a need for sperm capacitation, in an unusual regulation of sperm transport within the oviduct, in the cumulus oophorus and character of the zona pellucida around the small egg, and in a unique configuration of gamete fusion. The collective evidence now suggests that many of these features reflect a new fertilisation strategy or its consequences, with most being causally linked. One initial 'domino' in this regard appears to be the small yolkless state of the egg and its intolerance for polyspermy, as determinants of the unusual mode of oviductal sperm transport and possibly the existence and form of the cumulus oophorus. However, a particularly influential first 'domino' appears to be the physical character of the eutherian zona pellucida. This differs from the egg coats of other animal groups by virtue of a resilient elasticity and thickness. These qualities allow this primary and often only coat to stretch and so persist during later expansion of the blastocyst, usually until close to implantation. At the same time, the dimensions, physical character, and particularly the relative protease-insensitivity of the zona appear to have had profound effects on sperm form and function and, more indirectly, on sperm-related events in the male and the female tract. Marsupials display some similarities and also some strikingly different features, against which the enigmas of the eutherian situation can be evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Michael Bedford
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA.
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Lefebvre J, Fan J, Chevalier S, Sullivan R, Carmona E, Manjunath P. Genomic structure and tissue-specific expression of human and mouse genes encoding homologues of the major bovine seminal plasma proteins. Mol Hum Reprod 2006; 13:45-53. [PMID: 17085770 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gal098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm capacitation is a maturation event that takes place in the female reproductive tract and is essential for fertilization. A family of phospholipid-binding proteins present in bovine seminal plasma (BSP proteins) binds the sperm membrane at ejaculation and promotes bovine sperm capacitation. Homologues of these proteins have also been isolated from boar, ram, goat, bison and stallion seminal fluid, suggesting that BSP proteins and their homologues are conserved among mammals. However, there have been no reports on BSP-homologous proteins in mice and humans to date. A search of the mouse and human genomes, using the nucleic acid sequences of BSP proteins, revealed the presence of three BSP-like sequences in the mouse genome, named mouse BSP Homologue 1 (mBSPH1), mBSPH2 and mBSPH3, and one sequence in the human genome (hBSPH1). Mouse epididymal expressed sequence tags corresponding to partial sequences of mBSPH1 and mBSPH2 were identified. The entire complementary DNA (cDNA) sequences of mBSPH1 and mBSPH2 from mouse epididymis and hBSPH1 from human epididymis were obtained by 5'-/3'-rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) and encode predicted proteins containing two tandemly repeated fibronectin type II domains, which is the signature of the BSP family of proteins. Using RT-PCR, it was revealed that mBSPH1, mBSPH2 and hBSPH1 mRNA are expressed only in the epididymis. Expression of mBSPH3 was not detected in any tissue and probably represents a pseudogene. This work shows, for the first time, that BSP homologues are expressed in mouse and human and may be involved in sperm capacitation in these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Lefebvre
- Guy-Bernier Research Centre, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital and Department of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
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Sullivan R, Légaré C, Villeneuve M, Foliguet B, Bissonnette F. Levels of P34H, a sperm protein of epididymal origin, as a predictor of conventional in vitro fertilization outcome. Fertil Steril 2006; 85:1557-9. [PMID: 16616743 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.10.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2005] [Revised: 10/27/2005] [Accepted: 10/27/2005] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A prospective double-blind study was performed to determine if Western blot detection of P34H, a sperm protein of epididymal origin that is involved in the binding to the zona pellucida, is predictive of standard IVF outcome. Our results demonstrate that the proportion of positive P34H cases that produced embryos in vitro clearly differs from cases with undetectable levels of P34H (P<.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Sullivan
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département d'Obstétrique Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Ste-Foy, Québec, Canada.
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27
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Desrosiers P, Légaré C, Leclerc P, Sullivan R. Membranous and structural damage that occur during cryopreservation of human sperm may be time-related events. Fertil Steril 2006; 85:1744-52. [PMID: 16643911 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.11.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2005] [Revised: 11/14/2005] [Accepted: 11/14/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate sperm cryopreservation-induced injuries using sperm plasma membrane protein P34H and alpha-tubulin as two different subcellular compartment markers. DESIGN Prospective experimental study. SETTING Academic hospital research center and fertility clinic. PATIENT(S) Semen samples obtained from healthy donors attending the fertility clinic. Sperm samples were either directly processed for sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Western blot experiments (control group) or cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen for different periods of time before being analyzed. INTERVENTION(S) SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, and densitometric quantification of P34H and alpha-tubulin before and after cryopreservation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Changes in protein quantification between the different groups as a result of sperm cryopreservation. RESULT(S) In the 31 sperm samples processed for P34H evaluation, a 50% decrease is observed after sperm cryopreservation as compared to the control group. The alpha-tubulin immunoblotting of 41 sperm samples revealed a 200% increase in the protein detection in the group of cryopreserved sperm as compared to the control group. Contrary to the P34H detection, this change in alpha-tubulin immunodetected levels appears to be related to the cryopreservation period as it increases during storage. CONCLUSION(S) These findings indicate that cryopreservation of human semen induces damages at different cellular levels. Moreover, some cryoinjuries are immediate although others seem to take place over time stored in liquid nitrogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Desrosiers
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
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Frenette G, Légaré C, Saez F, Sullivan R. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor in the human epididymis and semen. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 11:575-82. [PMID: 16051683 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gah197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
During epididymal transit, mammalian spermatozoa acquire new proteins involved in the acquisition of motility and of male gamete fertilising ability. We have previously shown that membranous vesicles called epididymosomes are involved in the transfer of epididymal-originating proteins to spermatozoa. The cytokine macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is one of these proteins but the role played by MIF in relation to epididymal sperm maturation still remains unclear. As this protein has already been shown to bear different functions depending on its location, we investigated its distribution along the epididymis and in different compartments of human semen. Northern and Western blot analysis as well as immunohistochemical studies show that MIF is expressed all along the epididymis with a higher level of transcript in the proximal segment. MIF is associated with two types of membranous vesicles, i.e. epididymosomes and prostasomes, the latter being prostate-originating membranous vesicles present in the semen. In semen, MIF is associated with spermatozoa, prostasomes as well as the soluble fraction. The amount of MIF in the seminal fluid varies from one individual to another but does not correlate with the amount of MIF associated with ejaculated spermatozoa. There is a negative correlation between the amount of sperm-associated MIF and the percentage of motility in different semen samples. Sperm separation using discontinuous Percoll gradient centrifugation shows a higher amount of MIF associated with poorly motile spermatozoa compared to highly motile spermatozoa present in the lower Percoll fraction. These results are discussed with regards to the possible involvement of MIF in sperm motility acquisition during the epididymal transit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilles Frenette
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction and Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Ste-Foy, Québec, Canada
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St-Cyr A, Légaré C, Frenette G, Gaudreault C, Sullivan R. P26h and dicarbonyl/L-xylulose reductase are two distinct proteins present in the hamster epididymis. Mol Reprod Dev 2004; 69:137-45. [PMID: 15293214 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
We have previously identified a 34 kDa protein (P34H) on the human sperm surface covering the acrosome. Using the hamster, we have also described a sperm protein, P26h, which is acquired by spermatozoa during epididymal transit. Both P34H and P26h belong to the carbonyl reductase family. Using molecular tools derived from P34H, we searched in the hamster epididymis for another protein related to the human sperm protein. Cloning and sequencing of P31h cDNA revealed 100% homology with the kidney DCXR (Dicarbonyl/L-Xylulose reductase). Northern Blot experiments revealed a single mRNA that was more expressed in the caput than in the corpus and cauda segment of adult epididymides. In situ hybridization was performed on sexually mature hamsters showing that the mRNA was localized in the principal cells throughout the epididymis. Using an anti-P34H antibody we have identified a P34H related protein named P31h (for 31 kDa). This protein showed 2D-electrophoretic behavior different from P26h and was detectable all along the epididymis (caput, corpus, and cauda) by Western Blot analysis. Immunohistochemistry techniques showed that P31h was localized in the perinuclear region of the principal cells of the epididymal epithelium within the three sections, both in sexually mature and immature animals. Results are discussed with regards to the potential function of DCXR in the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine St-Cyr
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction and Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
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30
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El-Kabbani O, Ishikura S, Darmanin C, Carbone V, Chung RPT, Usami N, Hara A. Crystal structure of human L-xylulose reductase holoenzyme: probing the role of Asn107 with site-directed mutagenesis. Proteins 2004; 55:724-32. [PMID: 15103634 DOI: 10.1002/prot.20047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
L-Xylulose reductase (XR), an enzyme in the uronate cycle of glucose metabolism, belongs to the short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR) superfamily. Among the SDR enzymes, XR shows the highest sequence identity (67%) with mouse lung carbonyl reductase (MLCR), but the two enzymes show different substrate specificities. The crystal structure of human XR in complex with reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) was determined at 1.96 A resolution by using the molecular replacement method and the structure of MLCR as the search model. Features unique to human XR include electrostatic interactions between the N-terminal residues of subunits related by the P-axis, termed according to SDR convention, and an interaction between the hydroxy group of Ser185 and the pyrophosphate of NADPH. Furthermore, identification of the residues lining the active site of XR (Cys138, Val143, His146, Trp191, and Met200) together with a model structure of XR in complex with L-xylulose, revealed structural differences with other members of the SDR family, which may account for the distinct substrate specificity of XR. The residues comprising a recently proposed catalytic tetrad in the SDR enzymes are conserved in human XR (Asn107, Ser136, Tyr149, and Lys153). To examine the role of Asn107 in the catalytic mechanism of human XR, mutant forms (N107D and N107L) were prepared. The two mutations increased K(m) for the substrate (>26-fold) and K(d) for NADPH (95-fold), but only the N107L mutation significantly decreased k(cat) value. These results suggest that Asn107 plays a critical role in coenzyme binding rather than in the catalytic mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ossama El-Kabbani
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Victorian College of Pharmacy, Monash University (Parkville Campus), Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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31
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Abstract
During the epididymal transit, male gametes acquire new surface proteins necessary for their fertilizing ability. We have previously shown that membranous vesicles, called epididymosomes, interact with sperm surface within the epididymal fluid allowing transfer of some proteins to different subcellular compartments of spermatozoa. We previously showed that one of the major proteins associated with epididymosomes was an aldose reductase (gene: AKR1B5) and confirmed that aldose reductase is located in the epithelial cells bordering the intraluminal compartment of the epididymis. The present study shows that cytosolic aldose reductase activity was maximal in the proximal and middle segments of the epididymis and decreased in the distal epididymis. Western and Northern blot analysis confirmed the distribution pattern of aldose reductase and of the encoding mRNA. The optimal pH of epididymal aldose reductase was 6.0-6.5 when glucose was used as a substrate; this corresponds to the pH of the intraluminal epididymal fluid. In order to evaluate the possible involvement of sorbitol in sperm physiology, Western blot of tissue homogenates were probed with an anti-sorbitol dehydrogenase antibody. The amount of enzyme immunodetected was higher in the proximal and distal segments of the epididymis when compared to the amount detectable in the middle segment of the epididymis. Sorbitol dehydrogenase activity as well as the level of the encoding mRNA showed the same pattern of distribution. Furthermore, immunohistological studies using the anti-sorbitol dehydrogenase revealed that this enzyme was synthesized by the epididymal epithelial cells bordering the intraluminal compartment. Knowing the importance of sorbitol and fructose in sperm metabolism, we hypothesized that the polyol pathway is involved in the modulation of sperm motility within the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilles Frenette
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction and Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Canada
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32
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Frenette G, Lessard C, Madore E, Fortier MA, Sullivan R. Aldose reductase and macrophage migration inhibitory factor are associated with epididymosomes and spermatozoa in the bovine epididymis. Biol Reprod 2003; 69:1586-92. [PMID: 12826572 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.103.019216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
During the epididymal transit, mammalian spermatozoa acquire new surface proteins necessary for male gamete function. We have previously shown that membranous vesicles, called epididymosomes, interact with spermatozoa allowing the transfer of some proteins to sperm surface within the epididymal lumen. The protein composition of those vesicles has been investigated to document the mechanisms of protein transfer from epididymosomes to spermatozoa. Electrophoretic analysis revealed that protein composition is different from the epididymal soluble compartment as well as from similar vesicles present in the semen. Protein association with epididymosome is very strong as revealed by resistance to extraction with detergent. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight as well as immunodetection techniques have been used to identify some proteins associated to epididymosomes and spermatozoa. An aldose reductase known for its 20alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity and the cytokine (macrophage migration inhibitory factor) have been identified. These two proteins have been immunolocalized in principal cells of the epididymal epithelium, a more intense signal being detected in the distal epididymal segment as well as in the vas deferens. Database search revealed that these two proteins are characterized by the lack of a signal peptide. These results are discussed with regard to a possible apocrine mode of secretion of these proteins acquired by spermatozoa during the epididymal transit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilles Frenette
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction and Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Ste-Foy, Québec, Canada G1V 4G2
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33
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Joshi SA, Ranpura SA, Khan SA, Khole VV. Monoclonal antibodies to epididymis-specific proteins using mice rendered immune tolerant to testicular proteins. JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY 2003; 24:524-33. [PMID: 12826692 DOI: 10.1002/j.1939-4640.2003.tb02704.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (mabs) have been used as a powerful tool for identification of newer sperm proteins. However, conventional hybridoma technology rarely provides chance to obtain mabs to epididymal proteins. To increase this chance, we have used an alternate method of neonatal tolerization. In this protocol, animals were tolerized at birth using testicular proteins followed by immunization with cauda epididymal sperm protein (which is a cocktail of proteins both from testicular and epididymal origin). This protocol induced a specific immune response to epididymal sperm proteins. Spleen from one of these animals was then used for preparation of mabs. This fusion resulted in a number of mabs reacting specifically to epididymal proteins. Although mabs identified a protein of approximately similar molecular weight on 1-dimensional Western blot analysis, there were differences in regional localization on rat sperm as seen by indirect immunofluorescence. Immunohistochemical localization of these proteins in rat epididymis showed region specific synthesis. The synthesis of proteins was seen in the distal caput epididymis, and maximum expression was seen in supranuclear region of corpus epithelium. The proteins were localized on sperm from corpus and cauda region. Epididymis specific synthesis of the proteins and agglutinating nature of the mabs to these underlines the functional importance of these proteins in sperm maturation in epididymis. These antibodies could therefore, be used as tools for understanding the physiology of maturation of sperm in epididymis and role of the epididymal protein in fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh A Joshi
- Hybridoma Division, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
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Lasserre A, González-Echeverría F, Moules C, Tezón JG, Miranda PV, Vazquez-Levin MH. Identification of human sperm proteins involved in the interaction with homologous zona pellucida. Fertil Steril 2003; 79 Suppl 3:1606-15. [PMID: 12801567 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(03)00251-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify human sperm proteins involved in homologous zona pellucida (ZP) interaction. DESIGN Prospective study. SETTINGS Basic research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Semen samples from normozoospermic donors, tissue sections from surgical pieces, and ZP from nonfertilized oocytes. INTERVENTION(S) Antibodies for sperm proteins (HSE; high salt extract) were developed (anti-HSE) and partially characterized. Participation of sperm proteins on ZP-interaction was tested with the hemizona assay (HZA). Antigens were immunolocalized in sperm and tissues. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Sperm and tissue immunostaining; Western blotting; and number of sperm bound to the ZP. RESULT(S) Anti-HSE antibodies recognized several polypeptides in HSE (9 to 200 kd). Specific antibodies for 49 and 66 kd proteins (p49, p66) were obtained. Both (anti-p49 and anti-p66) stained the head of ejaculated and capacitated sperm. In the HZA, sperm preincubation with a mixture of anti-p49 and anti-p66 (100 micro g/mL) resulted in a decrease in the number of spermatozoa bound to the ZP. Presence of p66 (10 micro g/mL) inhibited sperm-ZP interaction. In contrast, p49 did not alter sperm binding to the ZP. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that p66 is present in the epididymis. No staining was observed in testicular sections. CONCLUSION(S) We found that p66 is an epididymal protein that participates in human sperm interaction with homologous ZP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Lasserre
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET-UBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Doiron K, Légaré C, Saez F, Sullivan R. Effect of vasectomy on gene expression in the epididymis of cynomolgus monkey. Biol Reprod 2003; 68:781-8. [PMID: 12604626 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.102.008177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasectomy has been shown to affect the pattern of mRNA expression of P34H, a human sperm protein added to the acrosomal cap during epididymal transit. It has been reported that vasectomy alters the histology of the reproductive tract in various species as a result of the increased pressure in the epididymis. The aim of this study was to evaluate if other epididymis-specific mRNAs, which are expressed in different patterns along the duct, are altered by vasectomy as well. We analyzed the expression of P31m (a monkey homologue of human P34H) and three different HE-like (HE-l) mRNAs along the epididymis in the cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis). Sexually mature cynomolgus monkeys were vasectomized unilaterally; then the epididymides were surgically removed at different time points. The ipsilateral normal epididymis was used as a control. Histomorphometric measurements showed that the height of the epididymal epithelial cells started to be affected only at 14 wk postsurgery. However, Northern blot and in situ hybridization analysis showed that the expression pattern of P31m, HE1, and HE5-like mRNA along the epididymis was not affected by vasectomy. Only the HE2-like mRNA predominantly expressed in the normal corpus epididymidis was significantly lowered 14 wk after vasectomy. Thus, ductal obstruction differentially alters mRNA expression along the epididymis of the cynomolgus monkey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Doiron
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction and Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Ste-Foy, Quebec, Canada G1V 4G2
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Maeda M, Kaku H, Shimada M, Nishioka T. Cloning and sequence analysis of D-erythrulose reductase from chicken: its close structural relation to tetrameric carbonyl reductases. Protein Eng Des Sel 2002; 15:611-7. [PMID: 12200544 DOI: 10.1093/protein/15.7.611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sequence analysis of a cDNA for D-erythrulose reductase from chicken liver showed that the deduced open reading frame encodes the protein with a molecular mass of 26 kDa consisting of 246 amino acids. Although the reductase shares more than 60% identity in the amino acid sequence with the mouse tetrameric carbonyl reductase, these two enzymes have many biochemical differences; their substrate specificity, subcellular localization, organ distribution, etc. A three-dimensional structure of D-erythrulose reductase was predicted by comparative modeling based on the structure of the tetrameric carbonyl reductase (PDB entry = 1CYD). Most of the residues at the active site (within 4 A from the ligand) of the carbonyl reductase were also conserved in the D-erythrulose reductase. Nevertheless, Val190 and Leu146 in the active site of the tetrameric carbonyl reductase were substituted in the D-erythrulose reductase by Asn192 and His148, respectively. The substitutions in the active sites may be related to the difference in substrate specificity of the two enzymes. The phylogenic analysis of D-erythrulose reductase and the other related proteins suggests that the protein described as a carbonyl reductase D-erythrulose reductase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miki Maeda
- National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Kannondai 2-1-2, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8602, Japan.
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Frenette G, Lessard C, Sullivan R. Selected proteins of "prostasome-like particles" from epididymal cauda fluid are transferred to epididymal caput spermatozoa in bull. Biol Reprod 2002; 67:308-13. [PMID: 12080033 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod67.1.308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
During epididymal transit, spermatozoa acquire selected proteins secreted by epithelial cells. We recently showed that P25b, a protein with predictive properties for bull fertility, is transferred from prostasome-like particles present in the cauda epididymal fluid (PLPCd) to the sperm surface. To further characterize the interactions between PLPCd and epididymal spermatozoa, PLPCd were prepared by ultracentrifugation of bull epididymal fluid, then surface-exposed proteins were biotinylated and coincubated in different conditions with caput epididymal spermatozoa. Western blot analysis revealed that only selected proteins are transferred from PLPCd to spermatozoa. MALDI-TOF analysis revealed that these transferred proteins are closely related. The pattern of distribution of the PLPCd transferred varied from one sperm cell to the other, with a bias toward the acrosomal cap. This transfer appeared to be temperature sensitive, being more efficient at 32-37 degrees C than at 22 degrees C. Transfer of PLPCd proteins to spermatozoa was also pH dependant, the optimal pH for transfer being 6.0-6.5. The effect of divalent cations on PLPCd protein transfer to caput spermatozoa was investigated. Whereas Mg(2+) and Ca(2+) have no effect on the amount of proteins remaining associated with spermatozoa following coincubation, Zn(2+) had a beneficial effect. These results are discussed with regard to the function of PLPCd in epididymal sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilles Frenette
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction and Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, 2705 Boulevard Laurier, Ste-Foy, Quebec, PQ, Canada G1V 4G2
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Nakagawa J, Ishikura S, Asami J, Isaji T, Usami N, Hara A, Sakurai T, Tsuritani K, Oda K, Takahashi M, Yoshimoto M, Otsuka N, Kitamura K. Molecular characterization of mammalian dicarbonyl/L-xylulose reductase and its localization in kidney. J Biol Chem 2002; 277:17883-91. [PMID: 11882650 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110703200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In this report, we first cloned a cDNA for a protein that is highly expressed in mouse kidney and then isolated its counterparts in human, rat hamster, and guinea pig by polymerase chain reaction-based cloning. The cDNAs of the five species encoded polypeptides of 244 amino acids, which shared more than 85% identity with each other and showed high identity with a human sperm 34-kDa protein, P34H, as well as a murine lung-specific carbonyl reductase of the short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase superfamily. In particular, the human protein is identical to P34H, except for one amino acid substitution. The purified recombinant proteins of the five species were about 100-kDa homotetramers with NADPH-linked reductase activity for alpha-dicarbonyl compounds, catalyzed the oxidoreduction between xylitol and l-xylulose, and were inhibited competitively by n-butyric acid. Therefore, the proteins are designated as dicarbonyl/l-xylulose reductases (DCXRs). The substrate specificity and kinetic constants of DCXRs for dicarbonyl compounds and sugars are similar to those of mammalian diacetyl reductase and l-xylulose reductase, respectively, and the identity of the DCXRs with these two enzymes was demonstrated by their co-purification from hamster and guinea pig livers and by protein sequencing of the hepatic enzymes. Both DCXR and its mRNA are highly expressed in kidney and liver of human and rodent tissues, and the protein was localized primarily to the inner membranes of the proximal renal tubules in murine kidneys. The results imply that P34H and diacetyl reductase (EC ) are identical to l-xylulose reductase (EC ), which is involved in the uronate cycle of glucose metabolism, and the unique localization of the enzyme in kidney suggests that it has a role other than in general carbohydrate metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junichi Nakagawa
- Medicinal Research Laboratories, Taisho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 1-403 Yoshino-cho, Saitama-shi, Saitama 330-8530, Japan.
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Fazeli A, Moore A, Holt WV. British Andrology Society Workshop: sperm interactions with epithelia and their products. HUM FERTIL 2002; 3:166-171. [PMID: 11844373 DOI: 10.1080/1464727002000198921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The British Andrology Workshop entitled Sperm interactions with epithelia and their products focused on the contribution of epididymal and oviductal epithelia and seminal fluid to the development of sperm function. The workshop also featured a state-of-the-art lecture entitled 'Activation of amino acid neurotransmitter receptor/chloride channels and sperm function'. Topics explored in the main body of the workshop included: the signalling pathways that might be functional in spermatozoa; whether differential subcellular localization of potential pathway components might play a role; what information could be gained from non-sperm cells; and the role of steroid hormones as potential effectors in sperm signal transduction. Tyrosine phosphorylation of downstream target proteins in spermatozoa was discussed and data were presented that supported a role for fertilization promoting peptide (FPP) in regulating sperm function in the female tract. Speakers revisited and challenged the idea that specific epididymal secretory proteins play a direct and active part in sperm functional maturation and raised the possibility that through binding and integration of DNA, spermatozoa could act as a vector for the incorporation of foreign genetic information. The roles of hyaluronic acid in maintaining sperm viability and promoting sperm capacitation and as a marker of sperm maturity were explored. Data were presented on sperm storage in birds. The workshop concluded with presentations on the potential roles of direct binding of spermatozoa to oviductal cells and their interaction with oviductal fluid components in the final preparation for successful fertilization.
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Lamontagne N, Légaré C, Gaudreault C, Sullivan R. Identification and characterization of P31m, a novel sperm protein in Cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis). Mol Reprod Dev 2001; 59:431-41. [PMID: 11468780 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.1050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
We have previously described a hamster sperm glycoprotein, P26h, which is implicated in the cascade of events occurring during the interaction between mature spermatozoa and the oocyte's zona pellucida. The P26h is acquired on the acrosomal cap of the spermatozoon during its maturation arising within the epididymis. Lately, using a polyclonal antiserum raised against P26h, a 34 kDa protein, P34H, has been identified on the acrosomal cap of the human spermatozoon. The cloning and sequencing of the cDNA encoding P34H has revealed a 65% similarity between the P34H and P26h amino acid sequences. Considering that P26h shows total immunocontraceptive properties in the hamster, it is of relevant importance to have an animal model phylogenetically closer to the human. Using the Cynomolgus monkey, we searched for a protein autologous to the human P34H. A 31 kDa protein, the P31m, localized on the acrosomal cap of the monkey spermatozoon has been identified by a Western blot analysis and by immunohistochemical techniques using an anti-hamster P26h antiserum. Northern blot analysis showed increasing high levels of the P31m mRNA through the epididymis and at lower levels in the testis. In situ hybridization showed the presence of the P31m mRNA in the principal cells of the epididymis. The cloning and sequencing of the cDNA encoding the P31m showed a high homology of 97% identity between the P31m and P34H nucleotidic sequences. This study clearly demonstrates that the monkey P31m is the homologous protein of the hamster P26h and of the human P34H. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 59: 431-441, 2001.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Lamontagne
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction and Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, 2705 Blvd. Laurier, Ste-Foy, Quebec, Canada G1V 4G2
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Gaudreault C, El Alfy M, Légaré C, Sullivan R. Expression of the hamster sperm protein P26h during spermatogenesis. Biol Reprod 2001; 65:79-86. [PMID: 11420226 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod65.1.79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
P26h is a hamster sperm protein of 26 kDa that has been previously characterized as a surface protein covering the acrosome acquired during epididymal transit. P26h is involved in sperm-egg interactions. Recently, it has been shown that the P26h transcript is highly expressed in the testis, and the P26h cDNA has been cloned from a hamster testicular cDNA library. Herein we report the production of a fusion protein (maltose binding protein-P26h) with the whole P26h cDNA encoding sequence and the production of a polyclonal antiserum against it. In Western blots, this antiserum recognized both the P26h extracted from cauda epididymal spermatozoa and the MBP-P26h. We also determined the age of appearance of P26h and which germ cell types express P26h mRNA and its translational product. Northern blots and in situ hybridization analysis showed that P26h transcripts appear at 3 wk of age, within the first round of spermatogenesis in the golden hamster. In situ hybridization showed that P26h transcripts are expressed in spermatocytes and round spermatids, whereas immunostaining revealed the presence of P26h in the cytoplasm of round spermatids and elongated spermatids. P26h was undetectable in testicular spermatozoa. Both in situ hybridization and immunostaining showed P26h expression to be dependent of the testicular cell type and the epithelium cycle. The implications for P26h in sperm-egg interaction and the testicular origin of P26h are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gaudreault
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction and Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Ste-Foy, Québec, Canada G1V 4G2
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Hammami-Hamza S, Doussau M, Bernard J, Rogier E, Duquenne C, Richard Y, Lefèvre A, Finaz C. Cloning and sequencing of SOB3, a human gene coding for a sperm protein homologous to an antimicrobial protein and potentially involved in zona pellucida binding. Mol Hum Reprod 2001; 7:625-32. [PMID: 11420385 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/7.7.625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously characterized an 18-19 kDa cationic protein, SOB3, that was detected in the epididymis and localized within the acrosome and on the neck region of human spermatozoa. We suggested that it is involved in secondary sperm binding to the zona pellucida. The present study describes its purification to homogeneity by preparative electrophoresis and non-equilibrium pH gradient electrophoresis. Degenerate primers deduced from microsequencing were used to amplify a specific fragment from human epididymal RNA by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). This 164 bp fragment was extended by 5' and 3'-RACE to obtain the 548 bp full length cDNA. The open reading frame encodes a 170 amino acid protein. SOB3 is a single copy gene. It is 98% identical to prepro-FALL39 and 100% identical to CAP18, two human genes which were initially identified by screening a human bone marrow (lambda)gt11 library, and which encode an antimicrobial protein. Northern blots of human tissues revealed a 1 kb transcript in corpus and cauda epididymis only, while RT-PCR showed presence of the mRNA in the three epididymal regions and also in round spermatids. The above results suggest that SOB3 has two roles in sperm protection and fertilization, depending on its dual origin and final sperm localization.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Hammami-Hamza
- INSERM U 355, Maturation Gamétique et Fécondation, Institut Paris-sud sur les Cytokines, 32 rue des Carnets, 92140 Clamart, France
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Légaré C, Thabet M, Picard S, Sullivan R. Effect of vasectomy on P34H messenger ribonucleic acid expression along the human excurrent duct: a reflection on the function of the human epididymis. Biol Reprod 2001; 64:720-7. [PMID: 11159378 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod64.2.720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm surface proteins involved in fertilization can be added or modified during epididymal transit. P34H, a human epididymal-sperm protein, appears on the sperm acrosomal cap in the distal caput-proximal corpus epididymis. In previous studies, it was shown that P34H is present on spermatozoa in men of proven fertility, is absent in 50% of men presenting with idiopathic infertility, and that a high proportion of men with normospermic vasovasectomy produce spermatozoa deficient in this sperm surface protein. P34H mRNA was expressed in the principal cells of the epididymis of normal men, predominantly in the corpus region. Recently, results coming from the assisted reproductive technologies have questioned the importance of the human epididymis in sperm maturation. In order to understand the effect of obstruction on the physiological state of the human epididymis and its function in sperm maturation, we have analyzed the expression of P34H mRNA at the level of the vas deferens and along the epididymis of normal and vasectomized men. In situ hybridization experiments showed that obstruction of the vas deferens alters the pattern of P34H mRNA expression compared with the tract of normal tissues. The P34H transcript was detected in the proximal caput epididymis of vasectomized men at a much higher intensity than that observed in the same region of normal tissues, being restricted to the principal cells of the epididymal epithelium. Compared with the normal duct, the lumen of vasectomized men was distended throughout the duct and the height of the epithelium was maximal in the caput. P34H mRNA was detectable in vas deferens, was not affected by vasectomy, and a 912-base pair P34H transcript was restricted to the epithelial cells of the vas deferens. Thus, using P34H as a marker, these results show that vasectomy alters the pattern of gene expression along the human epididymis, and suggest that the vas deferens can be a major contributor to sperm maturation in certain situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Légaré
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction et Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Ste-Foy, Quebec, Canada G1V 4G2
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