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Dai X, Pu D, Wang L, Cheng X, Liu X, Yin Z, Wang Z. Emergence of breeding tubercles and puberty onset in male zebrafish: evidence for a dependence on body growth. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2021; 99:1071-1078. [PMID: 34037242 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The presence of breeding tubercles (BTs) on the pectoral fins has been investigated as a typical male secondary sexual characteristic (SSC) that distinguish males from females in adult zebrafish. Nonetheless, the earliest occurrence of these tubercles and its association with puberty onset and body growth remain unclear. In this study, using morphological, histological and statistical analyses, the authors examined the first appearance of BTs and puberty onset in male zebrafish, with particular emphasis on the potential impact of body growth on them. The results of this study revealed that BTs distributed along the first five branched pectoral fin rays were the earliest manifestation of male SSCs, which is significantly strongly correlated with body weight (R2 = 0.9609, P < 0.001), and could be used as a "gold standard" for the earliest sex distinction (<0.1 g in weight). Using the first appearance of BTs (<0.20 mm2 ) as a metric, the authors established that male puberty commenced at a body weight of c. 0.056 ± 0.015 g or a standard length of 10.99 ± 1.051 mm (mean ± S.D.). In this study, the authors thus established a simple method that can be used to sex live zebrafish at the pubertal stage and provides the first evidence for the relationship of BTs and male puberty initiation with body growth. These findings will accordingly lay a foundation for exploring mechanisms of the SSCs and male puberty onset in zebrafish and other teleost fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyan Dai
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Deyong Pu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Liping Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinkai Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoqin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhan Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhijian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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Identification and expression analysis of Dazl homologue in Cynops cyanurus. ZYGOTE 2021; 30:221-226. [PMID: 34315561 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199421000538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The Dazl (deleted in azoospermia-like) gene encodes an RNA-binding protein containing an RNA recognition motif (RRM) and a DAZ motif. Dazl is essential for gametogenesis in vertebrates. In this study, we report the cloning of Dazl cDNA from Cynops cyanurus. Ccdazl mRNA showed a germline-specific expression pattern as expected. Ccdazl expression gradually decreased during oogenesis, suggesting that it may be involved in oocyte development. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the Ccdazl protein shares conserved motifs/domains with Dazl proteins from other species. Cloning of Ccdazl provides a new tool to carry out comparative studies of germ cell development in amphibians.
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Greer C, Bhakta H, Ghanem L, Refai F, Linn E, Avella M. Deleterious variants in genes regulating mammalian reproduction in Neanderthals, Denisovans and extant humans. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:734-755. [PMID: 33417716 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Were Neanderthals and Denisovans (referred here also as extinct hominidae) carrying deleterious variants in genes regulating reproduction? SUMMARY ANSWER The majority of extinct hominidae analyzed here, presented a considerable number of deleterious variants per individual in proteins regulating different aspects of reproduction, including gonad and uterine function, and gametogenesis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Neanderthals, Denisovans and extant humans were interfertile and hybridized while occupying geographically overlapping areas in Europe and Asia. This is evidenced by the small archaic genome component (average ∼2%) present in non-African extant humans. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The genome of eight extinct hominidae, together with five human genome databases, plus 44 mothers and 48 fathers (fertile controls), were screened to look for deleterious variants in 1734 protein-coding genes regulating reproduction. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Ancient DNA from six Neanderthals and two Denisovans dated between ∼82 000 and 43 000 calibrated years was retrieved from the public European Nucleotide Archive. The hominins analyzed include Altai, Vindija 33.15, 33.19, 33.25 and 33.26, El Sidron 1253, Denisova 3 and 11. Their DNA was analyzed using the CLC Genomics Workbench 12, by mapping overlapping paired-end reads (Illumina, FASTQ files) to the human genome assembly GRCh37 (hg19) (Vindija 33.19, 33.25, 33.26, Denisova 3 and Denisova 11) or by analyzing BAM files (Altai, El Sidron 1253 and Vindija 33.15) (human genome reference, GRCh37 (hg19)). Non-synonymous reproductive variants were classified as deleterious or tolerated (PolyPhen-2 and SIFT analyses) and were compared to deleterious variants obtained from extant human genome databases (Genome Aggregation Database (GnomAD), 1000 Genomes, the Haplotype Map (HapMap), Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Database (dbSNPs)) across different populations. A genetic intersection between extant or extinct DNA variants and other genetic disorders was evaluated by annotating the obtained variants with the Clinical Variant (ClinVar) database. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Among the eight extinct hominidae analyzed, a total of 9650 non-synonymous variants (only coverage ≥20 reads included; frameshift mutations were excluded) in 1734 reproductive protein-coding genes were found, 24% of which were classified as deleterious. The majority (73%) of the deleterious alleles present in extant humans that are shared between extant humans and extinct hominidae were found to be rare (<1%) in extant human populations. A set of 8044 variants were found uniquely in extinct hominidae. At the single-gene level, no extinct individual was found to be homozygous for deleterious variants in genes necessary for gamete recognition and fusion, and no higher chance of embryo-lethality (calculated by Mendelian Genetics) was found upon simulated mating between extant human and extinct hominidae compared to extant human-extant human. However, three of the eight extinct hominidae were found to be homozygous for 48-69 deleterious variants in 55 genes controlling ovarian and uterine functions, or oogenesis (AKAP1, BUB1B, CCDC141, CDC73, DUSP6, ESR1, ESR2, PATL2, PSMC3IP, SEMA3A, WT1 and WNT4). Moreover, we report the distribution of nine Neanderthal variants in genes associated with a human fertility phenotype found in extant human populations, one of which has been associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome and primary congenital glaucoma. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION While analyzing archaic DNA, stringent filtering criteria were adopted to screen for deleterious variants in Neanderthals and Denisovans, which could result in missing a number of variants. Such restraints preserve the potential for detection of additional deleterious variants in reproductive proteins in extinct hominidae. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study provides a comprehensive overview of putatively deleterious variants in extant human populations and extinct individuals occurring in 1734 protein-coding genes controlling reproduction and provides the fundaments for future functional studies of extinct variants in human reproduction. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by the Department of Biological Science and by the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs at the University of Tulsa (Faculty Research Grant and Faculty Research Summer Fellowship) to M.A. and the University of Tulsa, Tulsa Undergraduate Research Challenge (TURC) program to E.L.; no conflict of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory Greer
- Department of Biological Science, College of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK 74104, USA
| | - Hanisha Bhakta
- Department of Biological Science, College of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK 74104, USA
| | - Lillian Ghanem
- Department of Biological Science, College of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK 74104, USA
| | - Fares Refai
- Department of Biological Science, College of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK 74104, USA
| | - Emma Linn
- Department of Biological Science, College of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK 74104, USA
| | - Matteo Avella
- Department of Biological Science, College of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK 74104, USA
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Systematic comparison of the male reproductive tract in fetal and adult Wistar rats exposed to DBP and DINP in utero during the masculinisation programming window. Toxicol Lett 2020; 335:37-50. [PMID: 33086118 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2020.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
This study investigates possible effects of in utero exposure of rats to a low dose (125 mg/kg bw/day) and a high dose (750 mg/kg bw/day) of Diisononyl phthalate (DINP) during the masculinisation programming window (MPW) which is embryonic days 15.5-18.5 (e15.5 - e18.5). Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) was used at a high dose level (750 mg/kg bw/day) as an established positive control substance for anti-androgenic effects on the developing male reproductive tract. We focussed on the MPW and measured a multitude of biological endpoints at various life stages and applied state of the art histopathology staining techniques to refine the characterization of potential changes to the testis, beyond what is currently available with DINP. If DINP can mediate testicular dysgenesis (TDS) disorders, this exposure window would be sufficient to induce androgen impacts and alter male reproductive tract development as shown earlier in this validated experimental model with DBP. Overall, the results of this systematic comparison provide convincing evidence on the differences between the effects occurring with DBP and DINP. In contrast to what was seen with DBP, DINP did not cause cryptorchidism or hypospadias, had no effect on anogenital distance/anogenital index (AGD/AGi) and Leydig cell aggregates on e17.5 and e21.5 did not increase. With DINP no reduction of intratesticular testosterone, no effects on sperm motility and sperm count and no effect on adult testosterone or luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were seen. Our results demonstrate that DINP does not cause the adverse reproductive effects known to occur with DBP, a well-established endocrine disruptor.
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A framework for high-resolution phenotyping of candidate male infertility mutants: from human to mouse. Hum Genet 2020; 140:155-182. [PMID: 32248361 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-020-02159-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility is a heterogeneous condition of largely unknown etiology that affects at least 7% of men worldwide. Classical genetic approaches and emerging next-generation sequencing studies support genetic variants as a frequent cause of male infertility. Meanwhile, the barriers to transmission of this disease mean that most individual genetic cases will be rare, but because of the large percentage of the genome required for spermatogenesis, the number of distinct causal mutations is potentially large. Identifying bona fide causes of male infertility thus requires advanced filtering techniques to select for high-probability candidates, including the ability to test causality in animal models. The mouse remains the gold standard for defining the genotype-phenotype connection in male fertility. Here, we present a best practice guide consisting of (a) major points to consider when interpreting next-generation sequencing data performed on infertile men, and, (b) a systematic strategy to categorize infertility types and how they relate to human male infertility. Phenotyping infertility in mice can involve investigating the function of multiple cell types across the testis and epididymis, as well as sperm function. These findings will feed into the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility as well as male health broadly.
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Sarova N, Ahlawat S, Grewal A, Sharma R, Arora R. Differential promoter methylation of DAZL gene in bulls with varying seminal parameters. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53:914-920. [PMID: 29604148 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13187] [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] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In India, cross-breeding of indigenous cattle with exotic cattle such as Holstein Friesian and Jersey has been going on since last four decades to improve milk production. Although it has led to increased milk yield, the subfertility in male cross-bred progeny has remained a significant problem. Epigenetic modifications (DNA methylation, histone modifications and chromatin remodelling) are regarded as key players influencing gene expression. DAZL gene plays an important role in germline development and gametogenesis. The methylation and mRNA expression level of this gene have been significantly negatively correlated in the testes of cattle-yak hybrids and their parents. This study analysed the methylation profile of DAZL gene promoter in bull spermatozoa in an attempt to speculate its role in cross-bred cattle subfertility. Semen samples from Sahiwal, Holstein Friesian and Frieswal bulls (Sahiwal X Holstein Friesian) with varying semen motility parameters were collected, and DNA was isolated. Methylation-specific primers were used to amplify part of promoter and exon 1 of DAZL gene using bisulphite-converted DNA. The amplified products were sequenced after cloning in pTZ57R/T vector. Sequence analysis revealed significantly higher DNA methylation of DAZL gene in Frieswal bulls with poor motility (28.26%) as compared to medium (15.21%) and high motility phenotype (6.52%). In pure-bred counterparts, Sahiwal and Holstein Friesian, epigenetic marks were more in the former (15.21%) than the latter (4.34%), but in both cases, the values were lower as compared to the poor motility Frieswal bulls. This suggests that differential hypermethylation of the CpG islands could possibly influence reproductive parameters in bovines.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Sarova
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, India
| | - S Ahlawat
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, India
| | - A Grewal
- University Institute of Engineering and Technology, Kurukshetra, India
| | - R Sharma
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, India
| | - R Arora
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, India
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Kleppe L, Andersson E, Skaftnesmo KO, Edvardsen RB, Fjelldal PG, Norberg B, Bogerd J, Schulz RW, Wargelius A. Sex steroid production associated with puberty is absent in germ cell-free salmon. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12584. [PMID: 28974703 PMCID: PMC5626747 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-12936-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In all vertebrates studied so far, germ cells are not required for pubertal maturation of the gonadal steroidogenic system, subsequent development of secondary sex characteristics and reproductive behavior. To explore if the absence of germ cells affects puberty or growth in Atlantic salmon, germ cell-free (GCF), dnd knockout and wild type (WT) postsmolts were stimulated to enter puberty. No GCF fish entered puberty, whereas 66.7% (males) and 30% (females) WT fish completed or entered puberty, respectively. Expression of genes related to steroidogenesis (star, cyp17a1, cyp11β, cyp19a1a), gonadal somatic cells (insl3, amh, igf3), oocytes (bmp15), gonadotropin receptors (fshr, lhcgr), and pituitary gonadotropic cells (fshb, lhb, gnrhr4) showed an immature status and failure to up-regulate gonadal sex steroid production in male and female GCF fish was also reflected in low or undetectable plasma sex steroids (11-ketotestosterone, estradiol-17β and testosterone). A gender difference (high in females, low in males) was found in the expression of star and cyp17a1 in GCF fish. No clear difference in growth was detected between GCF and immature WT fish, while growth was compromised in maturing WT males. We demonstrate for the first time in a vertebrate that germ cells are required for pubertal activation of the somatic steroidogenic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lene Kleppe
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, NO-5817, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Eva Andersson
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, NO-5817, Bergen, Norway
| | - Kai Ove Skaftnesmo
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, NO-5817, Bergen, Norway
| | - Rolf B Edvardsen
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, NO-5817, Bergen, Norway
| | - Per Gunnar Fjelldal
- Institute of Marine Research, Matre Aquaculture Research Station, 5984, Matredal, Norway
| | - Birgitta Norberg
- Institute of Marine Research, Austevoll Research Station, 5392, Storebø, Norway
| | - Jan Bogerd
- Utrecht University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rüdiger W Schulz
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, NO-5817, Bergen, Norway.,Utrecht University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anna Wargelius
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, NO-5817, Bergen, Norway
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Rebourcet D, Darbey A, Monteiro A, Soffientini U, Tsai YT, Handel I, Pitetti JL, Nef S, Smith LB, O'Shaughnessy PJ. Sertoli Cell Number Defines and Predicts Germ and Leydig Cell Population Sizes in the Adult Mouse Testis. Endocrinology 2017; 158:2955-2969. [PMID: 28911170 PMCID: PMC5659676 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells regulate differentiation and development of the testis and are essential for maintaining adult testis function. To model the effects of dysregulating Sertoli cell number during development or aging, we have used acute diphtheria toxin-mediated cell ablation to reduce Sertoli cell population size. Results show that the size of the Sertoli cell population that forms during development determines the number of germ cells and Leydig cells that will be present in the adult testis. Similarly, the number of germ cells and Leydig cells that can be maintained in the adult depends directly on the size of the adult Sertoli cell population. Finally, we have used linear modeling to generate predictive models of testis cell composition during development and in the adult based on the size of the Sertoli cell population. This study shows that at all ages the size of the Sertoli cell population is predictive of resulting testicular cell composition. A reduction in Sertoli cell number/proliferation at any age will therefore lead to a proportional decrease in germ cell and Leydig cell numbers, with likely consequential effects on fertility and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Rebourcet
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Annalucia Darbey
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Ana Monteiro
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Ugo Soffientini
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Yi Ting Tsai
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Handel
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Jean-Luc Pitetti
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Lee B Smith
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia
| | - Peter J O'Shaughnessy
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Fully grown oocytes arrest meiosis at prophase I and deposit maternal RNAs. A subset of maternal transcripts is stored in a dormant state in the oocyte, and the timely driven translation of specific mRNAs guides meiotic progression, the oocyte-embryo transition, and early embryo development. In the absence of transcription, the regulation of gene expression in oocytes is controlled almost exclusively at the level of transcriptome and proteome stabilization and at the level of protein synthesis.This chapter focuses on the recent findings on RNA distribution related to the temporal and spatial translational control of the meiotic cycle progression in mammalian oocytes. We discuss the most relevant mechanisms involved in the organization of the oocyte's maternal transcriptome storage and localization, and the regulation of translation, in correlation with the regulation of oocyte meiotic progression.
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10
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Zhang LJ, Chen B, Feng XL, Ma HG, Sun LL, Feng YM, Liang GJ, Cheng SF, Li L, Shen W. Exposure to Brefeldin A promotes initiation of meiosis in murine female germ cells. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 27:294-303. [PMID: 24209976 DOI: 10.1071/rd13281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2013] [Accepted: 10/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, ontogenesis starts from a fusion of spermatozoon and oocyte, which are produced by reductive nuclear division of a diploid germ cell in a specialised but complex biological process known as meiosis. However, little is known about the mechanism of meiotic initiation in germ cells, although many factors may be responsible for meiosis both in male and female gonads. In this study, 11.5 days post coitum (dpc) female fetal mouse genital ridges were cultured in vitro with exposure to Brefeldin A (BFA) for 6h, and the changes in meiosis were detected. Synaptonemal-complex analysis implied that BFA played a positive role in meiosis initiation and this hypothesis was confirmed by quantitative PCR of meiosis-specific genes: stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8 (Stra8) and deleted in a zoospermia-like (DAZL). At the same time, mRNA expression of retinoic acid synthetase (Raldh2) and retinoic acid (RA) receptors increased in female gonads with in vitro exposure to BFA. Transplanting genital ridges treated with BFA into the kidney capsule of immunodeficient mice demonstrated that the development capacity of female germ cells was normal, while formation of primordial follicles was seen to be a result of accelerated meiosis after exposure to BFA. In conclusion, the study indicated that BFA stimulated meiosis initiation partly by RA signalling and then promoted the development of follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian-Jun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Bo Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xin-Lei Feng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Hua-Gang Ma
- Center for Reproductive Biology, Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, 261041, China
| | - Li-Lan Sun
- Center for Reproductive Biology, Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, 261041, China
| | - Yan-Min Feng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Gui-Jin Liang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Shun-Feng Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Lan Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Wei Shen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
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Rebourcet D, O'Shaughnessy PJ, Pitetti JL, Monteiro A, O'Hara L, Milne L, Tsai YT, Cruickshanks L, Riethmacher D, Guillou F, Mitchell RT, van't Hof R, Freeman TC, Nef S, Smith LB. Sertoli cells control peritubular myoid cell fate and support adult Leydig cell development in the prepubertal testis. Development 2014; 141:2139-49. [PMID: 24803659 DOI: 10.1242/dev.107029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs) regulate testicular fate in the differentiating gonad and are the main regulators of spermatogenesis in the adult testis; however, their role during the intervening period of testis development, in particular during adult Leydig cell (ALC) differentiation and function, remains largely unknown. To examine SC function during fetal and prepubertal development we generated two transgenic mouse models that permit controlled, cell-specific ablation of SCs in pre- and postnatal life. Results show that SCs are required: (1) to maintain the differentiated phenotype of peritubular myoid cells (PTMCs) in prepubertal life; (2) to maintain the ALC progenitor population in the postnatal testis; and (3) for development of normal ALC numbers. Furthermore, our data show that fetal LCs function independently from SC, germ cell or PTMC support in the prepubertal testis. Together, these findings reveal that SCs remain essential regulators of testis development long after the period of sex determination. These findings have significant implications for our understanding of male reproductive disorders and wider androgen-related conditions affecting male health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Rebourcet
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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Greaves E, Cousins FL, Murray A, Esnal-Zufiaurre A, Fassbender A, Horne AW, Saunders PTK. A novel mouse model of endometriosis mimics human phenotype and reveals insights into the inflammatory contribution of shed endometrium. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2014; 184:1930-9. [PMID: 24910298 PMCID: PMC4076466 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2014.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2013] [Revised: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 03/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disorder characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. Patients experience chronic pelvic pain and infertility, with the most likely origin of the tissue deposits (lesions) being endometrial fragments shed at menses. Menstruation is an inflammatory process associated with a dramatic increase in inflammatory mediators and tissue-resident immune cells. In the present study, we developed and validated a mouse model of endometriosis using syngeneic menstrual endometrial tissue introduced into the peritoneum of immunocompetent mice. We demonstrate the establishment of endometriotic lesions that exhibit similarities to those recovered from patients undergoing laparoscopy. Specifically, in both cases, lesions had epithelial (cytokeratin(+)) and stromal (vimentin/CD10(+)) cell compartments with a well-developed vasculature (CD31(+) endothelial cells). Expression of estrogen receptor β was increased in lesions compared with the peritoneum or eutopic endometrium. By performing experiments using mice with green fluorescent protein-labeled macrophages (MacGreen) in reciprocal transfers with wild-type mice, we obtained evidence that macrophages present in the peritoneum and in menses endometrium can contribute to the inflammatory microenvironment of the lesions. In summary, we developed a mouse model of endometriosis that exhibits similarities to human peritoneal lesions with respect to estrogen receptor expression, inflammation, and macrophage infiltration, providing an opportunity for further studies and the possible identification of novel therapies for this perplexing disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Greaves
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
| | - Fiona L Cousins
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Murray
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Arantza Esnal-Zufiaurre
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Amelie Fassbender
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Organ Systems, KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leuven University Fertility Centre, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Andrew W Horne
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa T K Saunders
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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13
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Gow DJ, Sauter KA, Pridans C, Moffat L, Sehgal A, Stutchfield BM, Raza S, Beard PM, Tsai YT, Bainbridge G, Boner PL, Fici G, Garcia-Tapia D, Martin RA, Oliphant T, Shelly JA, Tiwari R, Wilson TL, Smith LB, Mabbott NA, Hume DA. Characterisation of a novel Fc conjugate of macrophage colony-stimulating factor. Mol Ther 2014; 22:1580-92. [PMID: 24962162 PMCID: PMC4435485 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2014.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We have produced an Fc conjugate of colony-stimulating factor (CSF) 1 with an improved circulating half-life. CSF1-Fc retained its macrophage growth-promoting activity, and did not induce proinflammatory cytokines in vitro. Treatment with CSF1-Fc did not produce adverse effects in mice or pigs. The impact of CSF1-Fc was examined using the Csf1r-enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) reporter gene in MacGreen mice. Administration of CSF1-Fc to mice drove extensive infiltration of all tissues by Csf1r-EGFP positive macrophages. The main consequence was hepatosplenomegaly, associated with proliferation of hepatocytes. Expression profiles of the liver indicated that infiltrating macrophages produced candidate mediators of hepatocyte proliferation including urokinase, tumor necrosis factor, and interleukin 6. CSF1-Fc also promoted osteoclastogenesis and produced pleiotropic effects on other organ systems, notably the testis, where CSF1-dependent macrophages have been implicated in homeostasis. However, it did not affect other putative CSF1 targets, notably intestine, where Paneth cell numbers and villus architecture were unchanged. CSF1 has therapeutic potential in regenerative medicine in multiple organs. We suggest that the CSF1-Fc conjugate retains this potential, and may permit daily delivery by injection rather than continuous infusion required for the core molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah J Gow
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Kristin A Sauter
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Clare Pridans
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Lindsey Moffat
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Anuj Sehgal
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Ben M Stutchfield
- The University of Edinburgh/MRC centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sobia Raza
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Philippa M Beard
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Yi Ting Tsai
- The University of Edinburgh/MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lee B Smith
- The University of Edinburgh/MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Neil A Mabbott
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - David A Hume
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
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14
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Heim AE, Hartung O, Rothhämel S, Ferreira E, Jenny A, Marlow FL. Oocyte polarity requires a Bucky ball-dependent feedback amplification loop. Development 2014; 141:842-54. [PMID: 24496621 DOI: 10.1242/dev.090449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In vertebrates, the first asymmetries are established along the animal-vegetal axis during oogenesis, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. Bucky ball (Buc) was identified in zebrafish as a novel vertebrate-specific regulator of oocyte polarity, acting through unknown molecular interactions. Here we show that endogenous Buc protein localizes to the Balbiani body, a conserved, asymmetric structure in oocytes that requires Buc for its formation. Asymmetric distribution of Buc in oocytes precedes Balbiani body formation, defining Buc as the earliest marker of oocyte polarity in zebrafish. Through a transgenic strategy, we determined that excess Buc disrupts polarity and results in supernumerary Balbiani bodies in a 3'UTR-dependent manner, and we identified roles for the buc introns in regulating Buc activity. Analyses of mosaic ovaries indicate that oocyte pattern determines the number of animal pole-specific micropylar cells that are associated with an egg via a close-range signal or direct cell contact. We demonstrate interactions between Buc protein and buc mRNA with two conserved RNA-binding proteins (RNAbps) that are localized to the Balbiani body: RNA binding protein with multiple splice isoforms 2 (Rbpms2) and Deleted in azoospermia-like (Dazl). Buc protein and buc mRNA interact with Rbpms2; buc and dazl mRNAs interact with Dazl protein. Cumulatively, these studies indicate that oocyte polarization depends on tight regulation of buc: Buc establishes oocyte polarity through interactions with RNAbps, initiating a feedback amplification mechanism in which Buc protein recruits RNAbps that in turn recruit buc and other RNAs to the Balbiani body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda E Heim
- Department of Developmental and Molecular Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
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15
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He J, Stewart K, Kinnell HL, Anderson RA, Childs AJ. A developmental stage-specific switch from DAZL to BOLL occurs during fetal oogenesis in humans, but not mice. PLoS One 2013; 8:e73996. [PMID: 24086306 PMCID: PMC3783425 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The Deleted in Azoospermia gene family encodes three germ cell-specific RNA-binding proteins (DAZ, DAZL and BOLL) that are essential for gametogenesis in diverse species. Targeted disruption of Boll in mice causes male-specific spermiogenic defects, but females are apparently fertile. Overexpression of human BOLL promotes the derivation of germ cell-like cells from genetically female (XX), but not male (XY) human ES cells however, suggesting a functional role for BOLL in regulating female gametogenesis in humans. Whether BOLL is expressed during oogenesis in mammals also remains unclear. We have therefore investigated the expression of BOLL during fetal oogenesis in humans and mice. We demonstrate that BOLL protein is expressed in the germ cells of the human fetal ovary, at a later developmental stage than, and almost mutually-exclusive to, the expression of DAZL. Strikingly, BOLL is downregulated, and DAZL re-expressed, as primordial follicles form, revealing BOLL expression to be restricted to a narrow window during fetal oogenesis. By quantifying the extent of co-expression of DAZL and BOLL with markers of meiosis, we show that this window likely corresponds to the later stages of meiotic prophase I. Finally, we demonstrate that Boll is also transiently expressed during oogenesis in the fetal mouse ovary, but is simultaneously co-expressed within the same germ cells as Dazl. These data reveal significant similarities and differences between the expression of BOLL homologues during oogenesis in humans and mice, and raise questions as to the validity of the Boll(-/-) mouse as a model for understanding BOLL function during human oogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing He
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, the Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kayleigh Stewart
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, the Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Hazel L. Kinnell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, the Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A. Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, the Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J. Childs
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, the Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, the Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Camden, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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16
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Varras M, Griva T, Kalles V, Akrivis C, Paparisteidis N. Markers of stem cells in human ovarian granulosa cells: is there a clinical significance in ART? J Ovarian Res 2012; 5:36. [PMID: 23164047 PMCID: PMC3536594 DOI: 10.1186/1757-2215-5-36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2012] [Accepted: 11/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of the study was to determine the incidence of gene expression of Oct-4 and DAZL, which are typical markers for stem cells, in human granulosa cells during ovarian stimulation in women with normal FSH levels undergoing IVF or ICSI and to discover any clinical significance of such expression in ART. Methods Twenty one women underwent ovulation induction for IVF or ICSI and ET with standard GnRH analogue-recombinant FSH protocol. Infertility causes were male and tubal factor. Cumulus–mature oocyte complexes were denuded separately and granulosa cells were analyzed for each patient separately using quantitative reverse-transcription–polymerase chain reaction analysis for Oct-4 and DAZL gene expression with G6PD gene as internal standard. Results G6PD and Oct-4 mRNA was detected in the granulosa cells in 47.6% (10/21). The median of Oct-4 mRNA/G6PD mRNA was 1.75 with intra-quarteral range from 0.10 to 98.21. The OCT-4 mRNA expression was statistically significantly correlated with the number of oocytes retrieved; when the Oct-4 mRNA expression was higher, then more than six oocytes were retrieved (p=0.037, Wilcoxon rank-sum). No detection of DAZL mRNA was found in granulosa cells. There was no additional statistically significant correlation between the levels of Oct-4 expression and FSH basal levels or estradiol peak levels or dosage of FSH for ovulation induction. No association was found between the presence or absence of Oct-4 mRNA expression in granulosa cells and ovarian response to gonadotropin stimulation. Also, no influence on pregnancy was observed between the presence or absence of Oct-4 mRNA expression in granulosa cells or to its expression levels accordingly. Conclusions Expression of OCT-4 mRNA, which is a typical stem cell marker and absence of expression of DAZL mRNA, which is a typical germ cell marker, suggest that a subpopulation of luteinized granulosa cells in healthy ovarian follicles (47.6%) consists of stem cells, which are not originated from primordial germ cells. Absence of Oct-4 gene expression in more than half of the cases means probably the end of the productive journey of these cells, towards the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michail Varras
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Elena Venizelou" General Maternity Hospital, Platonos 33, Politia (Kifisia), Athens, 14563, Greece.
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17
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Tyndall V, Broyde M, Sharpe R, Welsh M, Drake AJ, McNeilly AS. Effect of androgen treatment during foetal and/or neonatal life on ovarian function in prepubertal and adult rats. Reproduction 2012; 143:21-33. [PMID: 22016380 PMCID: PMC3245827 DOI: 10.1530/rep-11-0239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2011] [Accepted: 10/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the effects of different windows of testosterone propionate (TP) treatment during foetal and neonatal life in female rats to determine whether and when excess androgen exposure would cause disruption of adult reproductive function. Animals were killed prepubertally at d25 and as adults at d90. Plasma samples were taken for hormone analysis and ovaries serial sectioned for morphometric analyses. In prepubertal animals, only foetal+postnatal and late postnatal TP resulted in increased body weights, and an increase in transitory, but reduced antral follicle numbers without affecting total follicle populations. Treatment with TP during both foetal+postnatal life resulted in the development of streak ovaries with activated follicles containing oocytes that only progressed to a small antral (smA) stage and inactive uteri. TP exposure during foetal or late postnatal life had no effect upon adult reproductive function or the total follicle population, although there was a reduction in the primordial follicle pool. In contrast, TP treatment during full postnatal life (d1-25) resulted in anovulation in adults (d90). These animals were heavier, had a greater ovarian stromal compartment, no differences in follicle thecal cell area, but reduced numbers of anti-Mullerian hormone-positive smA follicles when compared with controls. Significantly reduced uterine weights lead reduced follicle oestradiol production. These results support the concept that androgen programming of adult female reproductive function occurs only during specific time windows in foetal and neonatal life with implications for the development of polycystic ovary syndrome in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Tyndall
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences UnitUniversity/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJUK
| | - Marie Broyde
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences UnitUniversity/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJUK
| | - Richard Sharpe
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences UnitUniversity/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJUK
| | - Michelle Welsh
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences UnitUniversity/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJUK
| | - Amanda J Drake
- Endocrinology Unit University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceThe Queens Medical Research Institute47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJUK
| | - Alan S McNeilly
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences UnitUniversity/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJUK
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18
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Williams SA, Stanley P. Premature ovarian failure in mice with oocytes lacking core 1-derived O-glycans and complex N-glycans. Endocrinology 2011; 152:1057-66. [PMID: 21239444 PMCID: PMC3040049 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-0917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure (POF) affects up to 1.4% of women under the age of 40 yr and less than 30% of cases have a known cause. Here we describe a new mouse model of POF resulting from oocyte-specific ablation of core 1-derived (mucin) O-glycans and complex and hybrid N-glycans. Females carrying floxed alleles of both the C1galt1 (T-syn) and Mgat1 glycosyltransferase genes and a ZP3Cre transgene, generate oocytes lacking complex O- and N-glycans following oocyte-specific deletion at the primary follicle stage. We previously showed that few double-mutant females are fertile, and those produce only a single small litter. Here we show that ovarian function declined rapidly in double-mutant females with less than 1% ovulating at 11 wk of age after superovulation with exogenous gonadotropins. Ovary weight was significantly decreased in double-mutant females by 3 months of age, consistent with a decrease in the number of developing follicles. FSH levels in double-mutant females were elevated at 3 months of age, and testosterone and inhibin A were decreased, showing that the loss of complex N- and O-glycans from oocyte glycoproteins affected hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal feedback loops. The absence of developing follicles, ovary dysfunction, reduced testosterone and inhibin A, and elevated FSH in double-mutant females lacking C1galt1 and Mgat1 in oocytes represents a new mouse model for the study of follicular POF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzannah A Williams
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York 10461, USA.
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19
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O'Hara L, Welsh M, Saunders PTK, Smith LB. Androgen receptor expression in the caput epididymal epithelium is essential for development of the initial segment and epididymal spermatozoa transit. Endocrinology 2011; 152:718-29. [PMID: 21177831 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-0928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The epididymis plays an essential role in male fertility, and disruption of epididymal function can lead to obstructive azoospermia. Formation and function of the epididymis is androgen-dependent. The androgen receptor (AR) is expressed in both the stromal and epithelial compartments of the epididymis, and androgen action mediated via stromal cells is vital for its normal development and function. However the impact of epithelial specific AR-dependent signaling in the epididymis remains underexplored. To address this, we used conditional gene-targeting in mice to selectively ablate AR from the caput epididymal epithelium, and characterized the resulting phenotype at multiple postnatal ages. Caput epithelium androgen receptor knock-out mice have normal serum testosterone concentrations at day (d) 21 and d100, but do not develop an epididymal initial segment. The remaining caput epithelium displays a significant decrease in epithelial cell height from d11 and lumen diameter from d21 and disruption of the smooth muscle layer of the caput epididymis at d100. From d21, caput epithelium androgen receptor knock-out mice accumulate cell debris, proteinaceous material, and, at later ages, spermatozoa in their efferent ducts, which prevents normal passage of spermatozoa from the testis into the cauda epididymis resulting in infertility when tested at d100. This efferent duct obstruction leads to fluid back-pressure and disruption of the seminiferous epithelium of the adult testis. We conclude that epithelial AR signaling is essential for postnatal development and function of the epididymal epithelium and that disruption of this signaling can contribute to obstructive azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura O'Hara
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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20
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Welsh M, Sharpe RM, Moffat L, Atanassova N, Saunders PTK, Kilter S, Bergh A, Smith LB. Androgen action via testicular arteriole smooth muscle cells is important for Leydig cell function, vasomotion and testicular fluid dynamics. PLoS One 2010; 5:e13632. [PMID: 21049031 PMCID: PMC2964321 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0013632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2010] [Accepted: 09/24/2010] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulation of blood flow through the testicular microvasculature by vasomotion is thought to be important for normal testis function as it regulates interstitial fluid (IF) dynamics which is an important intra-testicular transport medium. Androgens control vasomotion, but how they exert these effects remains unclear. One possibility is by signalling via androgen receptors (AR) expressed in testicular arteriole smooth muscle cells. To investigate this and determine the overall importance of this mechanism in testis function, we generated a blood vessel smooth muscle cell-specific AR knockout mouse (SMARKO). Gross reproductive development was normal in SMARKO mice but testis weight was reduced in adulthood compared to control littermates; this reduction was not due to any changes in germ cell volume or to deficits in testosterone, LH or FSH concentrations and did not cause infertility. However, seminiferous tubule lumen volume was reduced in adult SMARKO males while interstitial volume was increased, perhaps indicating altered fluid dynamics; this was associated with compensated Leydig cell failure. Vasomotion was impaired in adult SMARKO males, though overall testis blood flow was normal and there was an increase in the overall blood vessel volume per testis in adult SMARKOs. In conclusion, these results indicate that ablating arteriole smooth muscle AR does not grossly alter spermatogenesis or affect male fertility but does subtly impair Leydig cell function and testicular fluid exchange, possibly by locally regulating microvascular blood flow within the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Welsh
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Centre for Reproductive Biology, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard M. Sharpe
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Centre for Reproductive Biology, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Lindsey Moffat
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Centre for Reproductive Biology, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Nina Atanassova
- Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Philippa T. K. Saunders
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Centre for Reproductive Biology, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sigrid Kilter
- Department of Anatomy and Pathology, University of Umeå, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anders Bergh
- Department of Anatomy and Pathology, University of Umeå, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Lee B. Smith
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Centre for Reproductive Biology, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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21
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Liu CF, Parker K, Yao HHC. WNT4/beta-catenin pathway maintains female germ cell survival by inhibiting activin betaB in the mouse fetal ovary. PLoS One 2010; 5:e10382. [PMID: 20454446 PMCID: PMC2861588 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0010382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2009] [Accepted: 04/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Female germ cells are essential for organogenesis of the ovary; without them, ovarian follicles do not form and functional and structural characteristics of the ovary are lost. We and others showed previously that when either Wnt4 or β-catenin was inactivated in the fetal ovary, female germ cells underwent degeneration. In this study, we set out to understand whether these two factors belong to the same pathway and how they maintain female germ cell survival. We found that activation of β-catenin in somatic cells in the Wnt4 knockout ovary restored germ cell numbers, placing β-catenin downstream of WNT4. In the absence of Wnt4 or β-catenin, female germ cells entered meiosis properly; however, they underwent apoptosis afterwards. Activin βB (Inhbb), a subunit of activins, was upregulated in the Wnt4 and β-catenin knockout ovaries, suggesting that Inhbb could be the cause for the loss of female germ cells, which are positive for activin receptors. Indeed, removal of Inhbb in the Wnt4 knockout ovaries prevented female germ cells from undergoing degeneration. We conclude that WNT4 maintains female germ cell survival by inhibiting Inhbb expression via β-catenin in the somatic cells. Maintenance of female germ cells hinge upon a delicate balance between positive (WNT4 and β-catenin) and negative (activin βB) regulators derived from the somatic cells in the fetal ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Feng Liu
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Keith Parker
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States of America
| | - Humphrey H.-C. Yao
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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22
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Ahn HW, Morin RD, Zhao H, Harris RA, Coarfa C, Chen ZJ, Milosavljevic A, Marra MA, Rajkovic A. MicroRNA transcriptome in the newborn mouse ovaries determined by massive parallel sequencing. Mol Hum Reprod 2010; 16:463-71. [PMID: 20215419 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaq017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Small non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), are involved in diverse biological processes including organ development and tissue differentiation. Global disruption of miRNA biogenesis in Dicer knockout mice disrupts early embryogenesis and primordial germ cell formation. However, the role of miRNAs in early folliculogenesis is poorly understood. In order to identify a full transcriptome set of small RNAs expressed in the newborn (NB) ovary, we extracted small RNA fraction from mouse NB ovary tissues and subjected it to massive parallel sequencing using the Genome Analyzer from Illumina. Massive sequencing produced 4 655 992 reads of 33 bp each representing a total of 154 Mbp of sequence data. The Pash alignment algorithm mapped 50.13% of the reads to the mouse genome. Sequence reads were clustered based on overlapping mapping coordinates and intersected with known miRNAs, small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs), piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA) clusters and repetitive genomic regions; 25.2% of the reads mapped to known miRNAs, 25.5% to genomic repeats, 3.5% to piRNAs and 0.18% to snoRNAs. Three hundred and ninety-eight known miRNA species were among the sequenced small RNAs, and 118 isomiR sequences that are not in the miRBase database. Let-7 family was the most abundantly expressed miRNA, and mmu-mir-672, mmu-mir-322, mmu-mir-503 and mmu-mir-465 families are the most abundant X-linked miRNA detected. X-linked mmu-mir-503, mmu-mir-672 and mmu-mir-465 family showed preferential expression in testes and ovaries. We also identified four novel miRNAs that are preferentially expressed in gonads. Gonadal selective miRNAs may play important roles in ovarian development, folliculogenesis and female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyo Won Ahn
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Welsh M, Saunders PTK, Atanassova N, Sharpe RM, Smith LB. Androgen action via testicular peritubular myoid cells is essential for male fertility. FASEB J 2009; 23:4218-30. [PMID: 19692648 PMCID: PMC2812048 DOI: 10.1096/fj.09-138347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2009] [Accepted: 07/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Androgens are essential for normal spermatogenesis and male fertility, but how androgens exert this effect remains uncertain. Androgen receptors (ARs) are expressed in several testicular cell types, but continuing uncertainty exists over which cell type mediates androgen control of spermatogenesis. Androgen signaling via Sertoli cells (SCs) is essential for complete spermatogenesis, but the role for androgen signaling via peritubular myoid (PTM) cells is contentious. To address this controversy, we generated PTM-specific AR-knockout (PTM-ARKO) mice in which gross reproductive development was normal, but all PTM-ARKO males were azoospermic and infertile. Testis weight was reduced beyond puberty, and in adulthood there was an 86% reduction in germ cells, compared with wild-type littermates. These changes were not explained by any deficits in testosterone, luteinizing hormone, or follicle-stimulating hormone concentrations. SC function was impaired in PTM-ARKO males, indicated by reduced seminiferous tubule fluid production and reduced expression of some androgen-dependent SC genes. Androgen action via PTM cells is therefore essential for normal testis function, spermatogenesis, and fertility in males. This study also provides the first direct evidence for the importance of androgen-driven stromal-epithelial interactions underpinning the regulation of spermatogenesis; PTM-ARKO mice will enable identification of the new molecular pathways involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Welsh
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Centre for Reproductive Biology, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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Volle DH, Decourteix M, Garo E, McNeilly J, Fenichel P, Auwerx J, McNeilly AS, Schoonjans K, Benahmed M. The orphan nuclear receptor small heterodimer partner mediates male infertility induced by diethylstilbestrol in mice. J Clin Invest 2009; 119:3752-64. [PMID: 19884658 DOI: 10.1172/jci38521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2009] [Accepted: 09/09/2009] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies in rodents have shown that male sexual function can be disrupted by fetal or neonatal administration of compounds that alter endocrine homeostasis, such as the synthetic nonsteroidal estrogen diethylstilbestrol (DES). Although the molecular basis for this effect remains unknown, estrogen receptors likely play a critical role in mediating DES-induced infertility. Recently, we showed that the orphan nuclear receptor small heterodimer partner (Nr0b2), which is both a target gene and a transcriptional repressor of estrogen receptors, controls testicular function by regulating germ cell entry into meiosis and testosterone synthesis. We therefore hypothesized that some of the harmful effects of DES on testes could be mediated through Nr0b2. Here, we present data demonstrating that Nr0b2 deficiency protected mice against the negative effects of DES on testis development and function. During postnatal development, Nr0b2-null mice were resistant to DES-mediated inhibition of germ cell differentiation, which may be the result of interference by Nr0b2 with retinoid signals that control meiosis. Adult Nr0b2-null male mice were also protected against the effects of DES; however, we suggest that this phenomenon was due to the removal of the repressive effects of Nr0b2 on steroidogenesis. Together, these data demonstrate that Nr0b2 plays a critical role in the pathophysiological changes induced by DES in the mouse testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H Volle
- INSERM U895, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Hôpital l'Archet 2, Nice, France.
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25
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Zerbetto I, Gromoll J, Luisi S, Reis FM, Nieschlag E, Simoni M, Petraglia F. Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor and DAZL gene polymorphisms do not affect the age of menopause. Fertil Steril 2008; 90:2264-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2007] [Revised: 10/18/2007] [Accepted: 10/25/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Anderson RA, Fulton N, Cowan G, Coutts S, Saunders PTK. Conserved and divergent patterns of expression of DAZL, VASA and OCT4 in the germ cells of the human fetal ovary and testis. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2007; 7:136. [PMID: 18088417 PMCID: PMC2211489 DOI: 10.1186/1471-213x-7-136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2007] [Accepted: 12/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Germ cells arise from a small group of cells that express markers of pluripotency including OCT4. In humans formation of gonadal compartments (cords in testis, nests in ovary) takes place during the 1st trimester (6-8 weeks gestation). In the 2nd trimester germ cells can enter meiotic prophase in females whereas in males this does not occur until puberty. We have used qRTPCR, Westerns and immunohistochemical profiling to determine which of the germ cell subtypes in the human fetal gonads express OCT4, DAZL and VASA, as these have been shown to play an essential role in germ cell maturation in mice. RESULTS OCT4 mRNA and protein were detected in extracts from both 1st and 2nd trimester ovaries and testes. In ovarian extracts a marked increase in expression of VASA and DAZL mRNA and protein occurred in the 2nd trimester. In testicular extracts VASA mRNA and protein were low/undetectable in 1st trimester and increased in the 2nd trimester whereas the total amount of DAZL did not seem to change. During the 1st trimester, germ cells were OCT4 positive but did not express VASA. These results are in contrast to the situation in mice where expression of Vasa is initiated in Oct4 positive primordial germ cells as they enter the gonadal ridge. In the 2nd trimester germ cells with intense cytoplasmic staining for VASA were present in both sexes; these cells were OCT4 negative. DAZL expression overlapped with both OCT4 and VASA and changed from the nuclear to the cytoplasmic compartment as cells became OCT4-negative. In males, OCT4-positive and VASA-positive subpopulations of germ cells coexisted within the same seminiferous cords but in the ovary there was a distinct spatial distribution of cells with OCT4 expressed by smaller, peripherally located, germ cells whereas DAZL and VASA were immunolocalised to larger (more mature) centrally located cells. CONCLUSION OCT4, DAZL and VASA are expressed by human fetal germ cells but their patterns of expression are temporally and spatially distinct. In the 1st trimester OCT4 was detected in most germ cells. In the 2nd trimester the onset of expression of VASA was associated with the formation of oocytes and spermatogonia both of which were OCT-4 negative. Relocation of DAZL from nucleus to cytoplasm paralleled the down regulation of OCT4 and the onset of expression of VASA. These data reveal similarities between the expression of key regulatory proteins within germ cells as they mature in male and female fetal human gonads suggesting that in the female these maturational changes are not determined by entry into meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Anderson
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Norma Fulton
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Gillian Cowan
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Shona Coutts
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Philippa TK Saunders
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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Barnett KR, Schilling C, Greenfeld CR, Tomic D, Flaws JA. Ovarian follicle development and transgenic mouse models. Hum Reprod Update 2006; 12:537-55. [PMID: 16728463 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dml022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian follicle development is a complex process that begins with the establishment of what is thought to be a finite pool of primordial follicles and culminates in either the atretic degradation of the follicle or the release of a mature oocyte for fertilization. This review highlights the many advances made in understanding these events using transgenic mouse models. Specifically, this review describes the ovarian phenotypes of mice with genetic mutations that affect ovarian differentiation, primordial follicle formation, follicular growth, atresia, ovulation and corpus luteum (CL) formation. In addition, this review describes the phenotypes of mice with mutations in a variety of genes, which affect the hormones that regulate folliculogenesis. Because studies using transgenic animals have revealed a variety of reproductive abnormalities that resemble many reproductive disorders in women, it is likely that studies using transgenic mouse models will impact our understanding of ovarian function and fertility in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Barnett
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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28
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Guigon CJ, Magre S. Contribution of Germ Cells to the Differentiation and Maturation of the Ovary: Insights from Models of Germ Cell Depletion. Biol Reprod 2006; 74:450-8. [PMID: 16339043 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.105.047134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, the role played by germ cells in ovarian differentiation and folliculogenesis has been the focus of an increasing number of studies over the last decades. From these studies, it has emerged that bidirectional communication between germ cells and surrounding companion cells is required as soon as the initial assembly of follicles. Models of germ cell depletion that arise from both spontaneous and experimentally induced mutations as well as irradiation or chemical treatments have been helpful in deciphering the role played by germ cells from the onset of ovarian differentiation onward. This review reports current knowledge and proposes novel hypotheses that can be formulated from these models about the contribution of germ cells to ovarian differentiation and folliculogenesis. In particular, it promotes the idea that the influence of germ cells on companion somatic cells varies within both ovarian differentiation and folliculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine J Guigon
- Laboratoire de Physiologie et Physiopathologie, CNRS-UMR 7079, University Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005 Paris, France
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Fox MS, Ares VX, Turek PJ, Haqq C, Reijo Pera RA. Feasibility of global gene expression analysis in testicular biopsies from infertile men. Mol Reprod Dev 2003; 66:403-21. [PMID: 14579417 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.10364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies have documented the use of microarray analysis to identify patterns of global gene expression that distinguish normal development from that of the diseased state. Yet, there are no reports that compare global gene expression in the fertile and infertile human testis. Here, we report an initial study of global gene expression in testicular biopsies from several men with different infertility phenotypes. We found that microarray analysis of small biopsy samples was suitable for profiling expression of genes known to function in germ cell development and also identified expression of novel genes. Since it is now common for infertile men with spermatogenic failure to use intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) to achieve biological paternity, we hypothesize that molecular screening of testicular biopsies with microarrays may be suitable: (1) to categorize the molecular phenoytpes of infertile testes in a manner similar to standard morphologic analysis and (2) to initiate larger studies of gene expression in the infertile testes that may identify genetic signatures from biopsies that allow prediction of outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Fox
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143-0546, USA
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30
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Richards
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
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