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Ahn JS, Won JH, Kim DY, Jung SE, Kim BJ, Kim JM, Ryu BY. Transcriptome alterations in spermatogonial stem cells exposed to bisphenol A. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2022; 26:70-83. [PMID: 35479511 PMCID: PMC9037227 DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2022.2061592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Owing to their self-renewal and differentiation abilities, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are essential for maintaining male fertility and species preservation through spermatogenesis. With an increase in exposure to plasticizers, the risk of endocrine-disrupting chemicals exerting mimetic effects on estrogen receptors, such as bisphenol A (BPA), has also increased. This has led to concerns regarding the preservation of male fertility. BPA impairs spermatogenesis and the maintenance of SSCs; however, the transcriptome differences caused by BPA in SSCs are poorly understood. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the transcriptome differences in SSCs exposed to BPA, using RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis. We found that cell proliferation and survival were suppressed by SSC exposure to BPA. Therefore, we investigated transcriptome differences through RNA-Seq, functional annotation, and gene set enrichment analysis. Our results showed repetitive and abundant terms related to two genes of lysosomal acidification and five genes of glycosaminoglycan degradation. Furthermore, we validated the transcriptome analyses by detecting mRNA and protein expression levels. The findings confirmed the discovery of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and the mechanism of SSCs following exposure to BPA. Taken together, we expect that the identified DEGs and lysosomal mechanisms could provide new insights into the preservation of male fertility and related research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Seop Ahn
- Department of Animal Science & Technology, BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Hyun Won
- Department of Animal Science & Technology, BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Young Kim
- Department of Animal Science & Technology, BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Eun Jung
- Department of Animal Science & Technology, BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Bang-Jin Kim
- Department of Cancer Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jun-Mo Kim
- Department of Animal Science & Technology, BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Buom-Yong Ryu
- Department of Animal Science & Technology, BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong-si, Republic of Korea
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Santiago-Andres Y, Golan M, Fiordelisio T. Functional Pituitary Networks in Vertebrates. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 11:619352. [PMID: 33584547 PMCID: PMC7873642 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.619352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The pituitary is a master endocrine gland that developed early in vertebrate evolution and therefore exists in all modern vertebrate classes. The last decade has transformed our view of this key organ. Traditionally, the pituitary has been viewed as a randomly organized collection of cells that respond to hypothalamic stimuli by secreting their content. However, recent studies have established that pituitary cells are organized in tightly wired large-scale networks that communicate with each other in both homo and heterotypic manners, allowing the gland to quickly adapt to changing physiological demands. These networks functionally decode and integrate the hypothalamic and systemic stimuli and serve to optimize the pituitary output into the generation of physiologically meaningful hormone pulses. The development of 3D imaging methods and transgenic models have allowed us to expand the research of functional pituitary networks into several vertebrate classes. Here we review the establishment of pituitary cell networks throughout vertebrate evolution and highlight the main perspectives and future directions needed to decipher the way by which pituitary networks serve to generate hormone pulses in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yorgui Santiago-Andres
- Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología Comparada, Departamento de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Matan Golan
- Department of Poultry and Aquaculture, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Rishon Lezion, Israel
| | - Tatiana Fiordelisio
- Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología Comparada, Departamento de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Azimi A, Mohaqiq M, Movahedin M, Mazaheri Z. Characterization of embryonic stem-like cells derived from mouse spermatogonial stem cells following low-intensity ultrasound treatment. Rev Int Androl 2020; 19:264-271. [PMID: 33358310 DOI: 10.1016/j.androl.2020.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are able to form embryonic stem-like cells (ES-like cells) and embryonic bodies (EBs). Low-intensity ultrasound stimulation (LIUS) has positive effects on the growth and differentiation of the different cells. In this study, we tried to investigate the effects of LIUS on SSC differentiation to ES-like cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS SSCs were isolated from neonatal mice and their identification was confirmed by tracking of PLZF, Oct-4, and C-Kit proteins. The SSCs and Sertoli cells were co-cultured in DMEM/F12 supplemented with 15% FBS and LIF. SSCs stimulated by LIUS with 200mW/CM2 intensity. Characterization of obtained ES-like cells was confirmed with Sox2, Oct-4, and SSEA-1 immunofluorescence staining. Also, real-time PCR was performed to analyse the expression of c-Myc and Nanog genes in ES-Like Cells and Stra8, Piwil2 and Plzf genes in SSCs after 21 days of the in vitro culture. RESULTS Our results showed c-Kit, PLZF and Oct-4 proteins were expressed positively in SSCs and Sox2, Oct-4, SSEA-1 in the ES-like cells by immunocytochemistry. The results of flow cytometry showed a significant increase in expression of c-Myc and Nanog in ES-like cells compared to SSCs (p<.05), whereas the Stra8, Piwil2, and Plzf became down-regulated during 21 days of culture. ES-like markers cell SSEA-1, Sox2 and Oct-4 were increased in the LIUS group compared to the control group (p<.05). CONCLUSION The results indicated that ES-like cells with pluripotency characteristics were derived from SSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arian Azimi
- Anatomical Sciences Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Mohaqiq
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, North Carolina, USA; Para-Clinic Department, Medicine Faculty, Kateb University, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Mansoureh Movahedin
- Anatomical Sciences Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zohreh Mazaheri
- Basic Medical Science Research Center, Histogenotech Company, Tehran, Iran
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Hasani Fard AH, Mohseni Kouchesfehani H, Jalali H. Investigation of cholestasis-related changes in characteristics of spermatogonial stem cells in testis tissue of male Wistar rats. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13660. [PMID: 32478921 DOI: 10.1111/and.13660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Paternal metabolic status is an important factor in the health status of offspring. Cholestasis, as a metabolic disorder, significantly disrupts spermatogenesis. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are considered the dividing germ cells, which maintain spermatogenesis throughout the lifespan. Here, we investigated the in vivo and in vitro effect(s) of cholestasis on SSCs. Cholestasis was induced in rats by bile duct ligation. Four weeks after the cholestasis induction, testicular tissues were analysed using histopathological examinations. The expression of SSC markers, including Plzf and Thy-1, was determined using the immunofluorescent technique. Also, SSCs were isolated from animals, and their proliferation was examined in vitro. The histological examinations revealed that cholestasis caused irregularities in the structure of seminal tubes. Immunostaining showed that the total number of Thy-1- and Plzf-expressing cells was declined in the cholestasis group compared with the control group. In vitro culture of SSCs indicated that the number of SSC colonies and those expressing Plzf were significantly reduced in the culture medium of the cholestasis group. Our results indicated that cholestasis affects the functionality of SSCs and reduces the number and proliferation of them. This finding may be of interest to the effect of metabolic diseases such as cholestasis on spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hanieh Jalali
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
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Bojnordi MN, Ebrahimi-Barough S, Vojoudi E, Hamidabadi HG. Silk nanofibrous electrospun scaffold enhances differentiation of embryonic stem like cells derived from testis in to mature neuron. J Biomed Mater Res A 2019; 106:2662-2669. [PMID: 29901281 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.36463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The scaffolds accompanied with stem cells have great potential for applications in neural tissue engineering. Fabrication of nanofibrous scaffold similar to extracellular matrix is one of the applicable methods in neural tissue regeneration. The aim of this study was the fabrication of a silk nanofibrous scaffold as a microenvironment for neural guiding differentiation of embryonic stem like cells (ES Like cells) derived from testis toward neuron-like cells. ES Like derived from culturing of testicular cells in vitro, were seeded on silk scaffolds and induced to neuronal phenotype using 4-/4± RA technique following culturing the cells in the neurobasal medium supplemented with 20 ng/mL bFGF,10 ng/mL EGF, B27, and N2 for 8-12 days. The neural differentiation was confirmed via the evaluation of specific neural markers; Nestin, NF68, MAP2 and β tubulin using immunocytochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction. Our results showed that silk scaffold support the attachment and proliferation of ES Like cells. The expression of Nestin, NF68, Map2, and ß tubulin markers were higher in cells grown on silk scaffold in compare to monolayer group. This study suggests electrospun silk nanofibrous scaffold as an appropriate substrate for neural induction of stem cells that is applicable for repairmen of damaged neural tissues. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 2662-2669, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Nazm Bojnordi
- Immunogenetic Research Center, Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box, Sari, 48471-91971, Iran
| | - Somayeh Ebrahimi-Barough
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Vojoudi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hatef Ghasemi Hamidabadi
- Immunogenetic Research Center, Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box, Sari, 48471-91971, Iran
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Park MH, Yun JI, Lee E, Lee ST. Integrin heterodimer α 9 β 1 is localized on the surface of porcine spermatogonial stem cells in the undifferentiated state. Reprod Domest Anim 2019; 54:1497-1500. [PMID: 31442342 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
A previous study found that undifferentiated porcine spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) did not adhere to tenascin C, indicating that the integrin α9 and β1 subunits are inactive on the surface of porcine SSCs. However, that study used recombinant tenascin C without FNIII-like repeats. Therefore, this study re-evaluated the existence of integrin α9 β1 actively functioning on the plasma membrane of porcine SSCs using full-length native tenascin C with FNIII-like repeats. The localization and function of the integrin heterodimer were confirmed using immunocytochemistry, attachment and antibody inhibition assays. In undifferentiated porcine SSCs with integrin α9 β1 on the cell surface, adhesion to native tenascin C was significantly higher compared with cells lacking native tenascin C and functional blocking of integrin α9 β1 significantly inhibited the attachment to native tenascin C compared with no functional blocking. Accordingly, we confirmed that the integrin α9 and β1 subunits function as an active heterodimer on the surface of porcine SSCs in the undifferentiated state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Hee Park
- Department of Animal Life Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Jung Im Yun
- Division of Animal Resource Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Eunsong Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Seung Tae Lee
- Department of Animal Life Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea.,Department of Applied Animal Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
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Azizi H, Asgari B, Skutella T. Pluripotency Potential of Embryonic Stem Cell-Like Cells Derived from Mouse Testis. CELL JOURNAL 2019; 21:281-289. [PMID: 31210434 PMCID: PMC6582425 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2019.6068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective During the cultivation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and their conversion into embryonic stem-like
(ES-like) cells, transitional ES-like colonies and epiblast-like cells were observable. In the present experimental study,
we aimed to analyze the efficiency of the multipotency or pluripotency potential of ES-like cells, transitional colonies
and epiblast-like cells.
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, SSCs were isolated from transgenic octamer-binding transcription
factor 4 (Oct4)-green fluorescent protein (GFP)-reporter mice. During cell culture ES-like, transitional and epiblast-
like colonies developed spontaneously. The mRNA and protein expression of pluripotency markers were analyzed by
Fluidigm real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunocytochemistry, respectively. Efficiency to produce
chimera mice was evaluated after injection of ES and ES-like cells into blastocysts.
Results Microscopic analyses demonstrated that the expression of Oct4-GFP in ES-like cells was very strong, in
epiblast-like cells was not detectable, and was only partial in transitional colonies. Fluidigm RT-PCR showed a higher
expression of the germ cell markers Stra-8 and Gpr-125 in ES-like cells and the pluripotency genes Dppa5, Lin28, Klf4,
Gdf3 and Tdgf1 in ES-like colonies and embryonic stem cells (ESCs) compared to the epiblast-like and transitional
colonies. No significant expression of Oct-4, Nanog, Sox2 and c-Myc was observed in the different groups. We showed
a high expression level of Nanog and Klf4 in ES-like, while only a partial expression was observed in transitional
colonies. We generated chimeric mice after blastocystic injection from ES and ES-like cells, but not from transitional
colonies. We observed that the efficiency to produce chimeric mice in ES cells was more efficient (59%) in comparison
to ES-like cells (22%).
Conclusion This new data provides more information on the pluripotency or multipotency potentials of testis-derived
ES-like cells in comparison to transitional colonies and epiblast-like cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Azizi
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran.Electronic Address:
| | - Behruz Asgari
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Thomas Skutella
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld, Heidelberg, Germany
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Nazm Bojnordi M. The applications and recovery outcome of spermatogonia stem cells in regenerative medicine. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mefs.2017.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
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Galuska CE, Lütteke T, Galuska SP. Is Polysialylated NCAM Not Only a Regulator during Brain Development But also during the Formation of Other Organs? BIOLOGY 2017; 6:biology6020027. [PMID: 28448440 PMCID: PMC5485474 DOI: 10.3390/biology6020027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In mammals several cell adhesion molecules are involved during the pre- and postnatal development of all organ systems. A very prominent member of this family is the neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM). Interestingly, NCAM can be a target for a special form of posttranslational modification: polysialylation. Whereas nearly all extracellular proteins bear mono-sialic acid residues, only a very small group can be polysialylated. Polysialic acid is a highly negatively-charged sugar polymer and can comprise more than 90 sialic acid residues in postnatal mouse brains increasing dramatically the hydrodynamic radius of their carriers. Thus, adhesion and communication processes on cell surfaces are strongly influenced allowing, e.g., the migration of neuronal progenitor cells. In the developing brain the essential role of polysialylated NCAM has been demonstrated in many studies. In comparison to the neuronal system, however, during the formation of other organs the impact of the polysialylated form of NCAM is not well characterized and the number of studies is limited so far. This review summarizes these observations and discusses possible roles of polysialylated NCAM during the development of organs other than the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina E Galuska
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany.
| | - Thomas Lütteke
- ITech Progress GmbH, Donnersbergweg 4, 67059 Ludwigshafen, Germany.
| | - Sebastian P Galuska
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany.
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Kang HS, Chen LY, Lichti-Kaiser K, Liao G, Gerrish K, Bortner CD, Yao HHC, Eddy EM, Jetten AM. Transcription Factor GLIS3: A New and Critical Regulator of Postnatal Stages of Mouse Spermatogenesis. Stem Cells 2016; 34:2772-2783. [PMID: 27350140 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we identify a novel and essential role for the Krüppel-like zinc finger transcription factor GLI-similar 3 (GLIS3) in the regulation of postnatal spermatogenesis. We show that GLIS3 is expressed in gonocytes, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and spermatogonial progenitors (SPCs), but not in differentiated spermatogonia and later stages of spermatogenesis or in somatic cells. Spermatogenesis is greatly impaired in GLIS3 knockout mice. Loss of GLIS3 function causes a moderate reduction in the number of gonocytes, but greatly affects the generation of SSCs/SPCs, and as a consequence the development of spermatocytes. Gene expression profiling demonstrated that the expression of genes associated with undifferentiated spermatogonia was dramatically decreased in GLIS3-deficient mice and that the cytoplasmic-to-nuclear translocation of FOXO1, which marks the gonocyte-to-SSC transition and is necessary for SSC self-renewal, is inhibited. These observations suggest that GLIS3 promotes the gonocyte-to-SSC transition and is a critical regulator of the dynamics of early postnatal spermatogenesis. Stem Cells 2016;34:2772-2783.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Soon Kang
- Immunity, Inflammation and Disease Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Liang-Yu Chen
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kristin Lichti-Kaiser
- Immunity, Inflammation and Disease Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Grace Liao
- Immunity, Inflammation and Disease Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kevin Gerrish
- Molecular Genomics Core, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Carl D Bortner
- Division of Intramural Research, Flow Cytometry Center, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Humphrey H-C Yao
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Edward M Eddy
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anton M Jetten
- Immunity, Inflammation and Disease Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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Aponte PM. Spermatogonial stem cells: Current biotechnological advances in reproduction and regenerative medicine. World J Stem Cells 2015; 7:669-680. [PMID: 26029339 PMCID: PMC4444608 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v7.i4.669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the germ stem cells of the seminiferous epithelium in the testis. Through the process of spermatogenesis, they produce sperm while concomitantly keeping their cellular pool constant through self-renewal. SSC biology offers important applications for animal reproduction and overcoming human disease through regenerative therapies. To this end, several techniques involving SSCs have been developed and will be covered in this article. SSCs convey genetic information to the next generation, a property that can be exploited for gene targeting. Additionally, SSCs can be induced to become embryonic stem cell-like pluripotent cells in vitro. Updates on SSC transplantation techniques with related applications, such as fertility restoration and preservation of endangered species, are also covered on this article. SSC suspensions can be transplanted to the testis of an animal and this has given the basis for SSC functional assays. This procedure has proven technically demanding in large animals and men. In parallel, testis tissue xenografting, another transplantation technique, was developed and resulted in sperm production in testis explants grafted into ectopical locations in foreign species. Since SSC culture holds a pivotal role in SSC biotechnologies, current advances are overviewed. Finally, spermatogenesis in vitro, already demonstrated in mice, offers great promises to cope with reproductive issues in the farm animal industry and human clinical applications.
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Zheng Y, Thomas A, Schmidt CM, Dann CT. Quantitative detection of human spermatogonia for optimization of spermatogonial stem cell culture. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2497-511. [PMID: 25267789 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can human spermatogonia be detected in long-term primary testicular cell cultures using validated, germ cell-specific markers of spermatogonia? SUMMARY ANSWER Germ cell-specific markers of spermatogonia/spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are detected in early (1-2 weeks) but not late (> 6 weeks) primary testicular cell cultures; somatic cell markers are detected in late primary testicular cell cultures. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The development of conditions for human SSC culture is critically dependent on the ability to define cell types unequivocally and to quantify spermatogonia/SSCs. Growth by somatic cells presents a major challenge in the establishment of SSC cultures and therefore markers that define spermatogonia/SSCs, but are not also expressed by testicular somatic cells, are essential for accurate characterization of SSC cultures. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Testicular tissue from eight organ donors with normal spermatogenesis was used for assay validation and establishing primary testicular cell cultures. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Immunofluorescence analysis of normal human testicular tissue was used to validate antibodies (UTF1, SALL4, DAZL and VIM) and then the antibodies were used to demonstrate that primary testicular cells cultured in vitro for 1-2 weeks were composed of somatic cells and rare germ cells. Primary testicular cell cultures were further characterized by comparing to testicular somatic cell cultures using quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (UTF1, FGFR3, ZBTB16, GPR125, DAZL, GATA4 and VIM) and flow cytometry (CD9 and SSEA4). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE UTF1, FGFR3, DAZL and ZBTB16 qRT-PCR and SSEA4 flow cytometry were validated for the sensitive, quantitative and specific detection of germ cells. In contrast, GPR125 mRNA and CD9 were found to be not specific to germ cells because they were also expressed in testicular somatic cell cultures. While the germ cell-specific markers were detected in early primary testicular cell cultures (1-2 weeks), their expression steadily declined over time in vitro. After 6 weeks in culture only somatic cells were detected. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Different groups attempting SSC culture have utilized different sources of human testes and minor differences in the preparation and maintenance of the testicular cell cultures. Differences in outcome may be explained by genetic background of the source tissue or technical differences. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The ability to propagate human SSCs in vitro is a prerequisite for proposed autologous transplantation therapy aimed at restoring fertility to men who have been treated for childhood cancer. By applying the assays validated here it will be possible to quantitatively compare human SSC culture conditions. The eventual development of conditions for long-term propagation of human SSCs in vitro will greatly facilitate learning about the basic biology of these cells and in turn the ability to use human SSCs in therapy. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The experiments presented in this manuscript were funded by a Project Development Team within the ICTSI NIH/NCRR Grant Number TR000006. The authors declare no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Zheng
- Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405-7102, USA
| | - A Thomas
- Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405-7102, USA
| | - C M Schmidt
- Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405-7102, USA
| | - C T Dann
- Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405-7102, USA
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Morphologic and proliferative characteristics of goat type A spermatogonia in the presence of different sets of growth factors. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:1519-31. [PMID: 25194750 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0301-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The present study by using different growth factors was aimed to develop the best practical culture condition for purification of goat undifferentiated SSCs and their colonization under in vitro and in vivo conditions. METHODS The enzymatically isolated SSCs obtained from one month old goat testes were cultured in DMEM plus FCS supplemented with different sets of growth factors (GDNF, LIF, bFGF, and EGF) for 2 weeks. At the end of each week, the morphological characteristics of cells and colonies alongside with purification rate of undifferentiated type A spermatogonia were evaluated by immunocytochemical staining and flow cytometry. RESULTS The number and size of colonies in treatment groups were significantly (P < 0.01) higher than corresponding values in control group. In immunocytochemical evaluation, the proportion of KIT and PGP9.5 positive cells were significantly (P < 0.001) higher in control and treatment groups, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The culture medium comprising all four growth factors, especially the one supplemented with the higher concentration of GDNF, was superior to the other groups with respect to the population of undifferentiated type A spermatogonia and its propagation in culture system. Additionally, goat SSCs could colonize within the mouse testis following xenotransplantation.
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Pluripotent Very Small Embryonic-like Stem Cells in Adult Mammalian Gonads. STEM CELL BIOLOGY AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-1001-4_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Nazm Bojnordi M, Movahedin M, Tiraihi T, Javan M, Ghasemi Hamidabadi H. Oligoprogenitor Cells Derived from Spermatogonia Stem Cells Improve Remyelination in Demyelination Model. Mol Biotechnol 2013; 56:387-93. [DOI: 10.1007/s12033-013-9722-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Abstract
The continuous production of spermatazoa throughout the reproductive lifetime of a male depends on the maintenance of a pool of progenitor cells called spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). SSCs represent a very small fraction of the cellular population in the testes and lack definitive molecular markers for their identification. The discovery of conditions that allow one to propagate mouse SSCs in vitro essentially indefinitely has truly facilitated studies of the molecular mechanisms regulating SSC function. While multiple conditions for culturing SSCs have now been described, here we detail a method for culturing SSCs that uses a simpler medium than the original formulation. As with numerous other primary and stem cell cultures, it is difficult to introduce DNA into cultured SSCs using standard transfection approaches. However, VSV-G pseudotyped lentivirus efficiently infects cultured SSCs with minimal toxicity. Here we present protocols for producing lentivirus and stably modifying the genome of cultured SSCs using lentiviral vectors.
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Nazm Bojnordi M, Movahedin M, Tiraihi T, Javan M. A Simple Co-culture System for Generation of Embryonic Stem-Like Cells From Testis. IRANIAN RED CRESCENT MEDICAL JOURNAL 2012; 14:811-5. [PMID: 23483704 PMCID: PMC3587872 DOI: 10.5812/ircmj.4051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2012] [Revised: 06/14/2012] [Accepted: 07/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background New research proposes the pluripotency of spermatogonial cells obtained from testis. These spermatogonia-derived stem cells are called embryonic stem-like cells that express embryonic stem cell markers and differentiate to the three germ layers. Objectives The aim of the present study was to generate embryonic stem-like cells from neonatal mouse testis. Materials and Methods The Testis cells were collected from neonatal mouse. After decapsulation, testis was mechanically dissected and dissociated via a two-step mechanical and enzymatic digestion. The spermatogonia and sertoli cells were cultured together in Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium (DMEM) supplemented with 15% FBS and LIF. Before one week, several small spermatogonia colonies were observed on top of the monolayer of sertoli cells. These colonies were passaged every four days. ES-Like cells colonies that resembled ES cell was appeared within 2-3 weeks (at passages 5). Real time PCR was performed to analyze the expression of a subset of pluripotency markers, as well as germ cell-specific genes. ES Like cells were confirmed with SSEA1, SOX2 and Oct4 immunofluorescence stainng as pluripotency markers. Results The Results showed that at fifth passages, the pluripotency genes; Nanog and c-myc have significant increase in ES-Like cells in compare with spermatogonia cells, whereas the spermatogonial markers; Stra8, mvh, and piwill2 became downregulated. In addition to these pluripotency genes, the ES cell marker SSEA-1, SOX2 and Oct4 were expressed in the ES-like cells, similar to ES cells. Conclusions This researh indicates pluripotency evidence of ES-like cells derived from testis. ES-like cells shows some molecular characteristics with embryonic stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Nazm Bojnordi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Medical Sciences Faculty, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Mansoureh Movahedin
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Medical Sciences Faculty, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, IR Iran
- Corresponding author: Mansoureh Movahedin, Department of Anatomical Sciences, Medical Sciences Faculty, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalale-Ale-Ahmad highway, P.O. Box 14115-175, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel.: +98-2182884503, Fax: +98-2182884555, E-mail:
| | - Taki Tiraihi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Medical Sciences Faculty, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Mohamad Javan
- Department of Physiology, Medical Sciences Faculty, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, IR Iran
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Nazm Bojnordi M, Movahedin M, Tiraihi T, Javan M. Alteration in genes expression patterns during in vitro differentiation of mouse spermatogonial cells into neuroepithelial-like cells. Cytotechnology 2012; 65:97-104. [PMID: 23104269 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-012-9465-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells derived from testis is a new, natural, and unlimited source for cell therapy in regenerative medicine and represent a possible alternative to replacing of all cells in the body. Here, we designed a simple co-culture system of spermatogonia cells with Sertoli cells for the generation of embryonic stem-like cells from mouse testis. The importance of our simple method will be clear when we compared it with other complex and time-consuming methods. Embryonic stem-like colonies with sharp border confirmed by real-time PCR, immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry assessments. Embryonic stem-like colonies were immunopositive for pluripotency markers. Transition of spermatogonia cells to embryonic stem-like cells was accompanied by extensive changes in gene expression. These changes included significant increase in pluripotency genes expression and significant decrease in germ cell-specific genes expression. Also, we proved the differentiation capacity of embryonic stem-like cells to neuroepithelial-like cells which were immunoreactive to Nestin and Neurofilament 68. Evaluation of genes expression during in vitro differentiation into neuroepithelial-like cells showed high-level expression of Nestin whether this gene approximately has no expression in undifferentiated embryonic stem-like cells. Also, expression of pluripotency genes has significantly decreased in neuroepithelial-like cells compared with embryonic stem-like cells. This study shows that embryonic stem-like cells derived from testis are capable to differentiate into neuroepithelial-like cells that may provide a cellular reservoir usable for neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Nazm Bojnordi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Medical Sciences Faculty, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalale-Ale-Ahmad Highway, P.O. Box 14115-175, Tehran, Iran,
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Im JE, Song SH, Kim JY, Kim KL, Baek SH, Lee DR, Suh W. Vascular differentiation of multipotent spermatogonial stem cells derived from neonatal mouse testis. Exp Mol Med 2012; 44:303-9. [PMID: 22257887 PMCID: PMC3349912 DOI: 10.3858/emm.2012.44.4.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously reported the successful establishment of embryonic stem cell (ESC)-like multipotent spermatogonial stem cells (mSSCs) from neonatal mouse testis. Here, we examined the ability of mSSCs to differentiate into vascular endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells, and compared to that of mouse ESCs. We used real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry to examine gene expression profiles of mSSCs and ESCs during in vitro vascular differentiation. Both mSSCs and ESCs exhibited substantial increase in the expression of mesodermal markers, such as Brachyury, Flk1, Mesp1, Nkx2.5, and Islet1, and a decrease in the expression of pluripotency markers, such as Oct3/4 and Nanog during the early stage of differentiation. The mRNA levels of vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin and CD31 gradually increased in both differentiated mSSCs and ESCs. VE-cadherin- or CD31-positive cells formed sprouting branch-like structures, as observed during embryonic vascular development. At the same time, vascular smooth muscle cell-specific markers, such as myocardin and α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), were also highly expressed in differentiated mSSCs and ESCs. Immunocytochemical analysis revealed that the differentiated cells expressed both α-SMA and SM22-α proteins, and exhibited the intracellular fibril structure typical of smooth muscle cells. Overall, our findings showed that mSSCs have similar vascular differentiation abilities to those of ESCs, suggesting that mSSCs may be an alternative source of autologous pluripotent stem cells for vascular regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Eun Im
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Pochon 487-010, Korea
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22
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Imamura M, Lin ZYC, Okano H. Cell-intrinsic reprogramming capability: gain or loss of pluripotency in germ cells. Reprod Med Biol 2012; 12:1-14. [PMID: 29699125 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-012-0131-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2012] [Accepted: 05/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In multicellular organisms, germ cells are an extremely specialized cell type with the vital function of transmitting genetic information across generations. In this respect, they are responsible for the perpetuity of species, and are separated from somatic lineages at each generation. Interestingly, in the past two decades research has shown that germ cells have the potential to proceed along two distinct pathways: gametogenesis or pluripotency. Unequivocally, the primary role of germ cells is to produce gametes, the sperm or oocyte, to produce offspring. However, under specific conditions germ cells can become pluripotent, as shown by teratoma formation in vivo or cell culture-induced reprogramming in vitro. This phenomenon seems to be a general propensity of germ cells, irrespective of developmental phase. Recent attempts at cellular reprogramming have resulted in the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). In iPSCs, the intracellular molecular networks instructing pluripotency have been activated and override the exclusively somatic cell programs that existed. Because the generation of iPSCs is highly artificial and depends on gene transduction, whether the resulting machinery reflects any physiological cell-intrinsic programs is open to question. In contrast, germ cells can spontaneously shift their fate to pluripotency during in-vitro culture. Here, we review the two fates of germ cells, i.e., differentiation and reprogramming. Understanding the molecular mechanisms regulating differentiation versus reprogramming would provide invaluable insight into understanding the mechanisms of cellular reprogramming that generate iPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Imamura
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine Keio University 35 Shinanomachi 160-8582 Shinjuku-ku Tokyo Japan
| | - Zachary Yu-Ching Lin
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine Keio University 35 Shinanomachi 160-8582 Shinjuku-ku Tokyo Japan
| | - Hideyuki Okano
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine Keio University 35 Shinanomachi 160-8582 Shinjuku-ku Tokyo Japan
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Moraveji SF, Attari F, Shahverdi A, Sepehri H, Farrokhi A, Hassani SN, Fonoudi H, Aghdami N, Baharvand H. Inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase-3 promotes efficient derivation of pluripotent stem cells from neonatal mouse testis. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2312-24. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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Fagoonee S, Hobbs RM, De Chiara L, Cantarella D, Piro RM, Tolosano E, Medico E, Provero P, Pandolfi PP, Silengo L, Altruda F. Generation of functional hepatocytes from mouse germ line cell-derived pluripotent stem cells in vitro. Stem Cells Dev 2011; 19:1183-94. [PMID: 20331356 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2009.0496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ line cell-derived pluripotent stem cells (GPSCs) are similar to embryonic stem (ES) cells in that they can proliferate intensively and differentiate into a variety of cell types. Previous studies have revealed some inherent differences in gene expression between undifferentiated mouse ES cells and GPSCs. Our aims were to generate functional hepatocytes from mouse GPSCs in vitro and to investigate whether the differences in gene expression may impact on the hepatocyte differentiation capacity of the GPSCs compared with ES cells. Mouse GPSCs and ES cells were induced to differentiate into hepatocytes through embryoid body formation, with very high efficiency. These hepatocytes were characterized at cellular, molecular, and functional levels. The GPSC-derived hepatocytes expressed hepatic markers and were metabolically active as shown by albumin and haptoglobin secretion, urea synthesis, glycogen storage, and indocyanine green uptake. We also performed an unprecedented DNA microarray analysis comparing different stages of hepatocyte differentiation. Gene expression profiling demonstrated a strong similarity between GPSC and ES cells at different stages of induced hepatic differentiation. Moreover, Pearson correlation analysis of the microarray datasets suggested that, at late hepatic differentiation stages, the in vitro-derived cells were closer to fetal mouse primary hepatocytes than to those obtained from neonates. We have shown for the first time that adult GPSCs can be induced to differentiate into functional hepatocytes in vitro. These GPSC-derived hepatocytes offer great potential for cell replacement therapy for a wide variety of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharmila Fagoonee
- Department of Genetics, Biology and Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
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Pellegrini M, Claps G, Orlova VV, Barrios F, Dolci S, Geremia R, Rossi P, Rossi G, Arnold B, Chavakis T, Feigenbaum L, Sharan SK, Nussenzweig A. Targeted JAM-C deletion in germ cells by Spo11-controlled Cre recombinase. J Cell Sci 2010; 124:91-9. [PMID: 21147852 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.072959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Meiosis is a crucial process for the production of functional gametes. However, the biological significance of many genes expressed during the meiotic phase remains poorly understood, mainly because of the lethal phenotypes of the knockout mice. Functional analysis of such genes using the conditional knockout approach is hindered by the lack of suitable Cre transgenic lines. We describe here the generation of transgenic mice expressing Cre recombinase under the control of the meiotic Spo11 gene. Using LacZ-R26(loxP) and EYFP-R26(loxP) reporter mice, we show the specific expression and activity of Cre during meiosis in males and females. Spo11(Cre) mice were then crossed with floxed Nbs1 and JAM-C mice to produce conditional knockouts. A strong reduction of Nbs1 and JAM-C protein levels was found in the testis. Although Nbs1-deleted mice developed minor gonadal abnormalities, JAM-C-knockout mice showed a spermiogenetic arrest, as previously described for the null mice. These results provide strong evidence that Spo11(Cre) transgenic mice represent a powerful tool for deleting genes of interest specifically in meiotic and/or in postmeiotic germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Pellegrini
- Department of Public Health and Cellular Biology, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', 00133 Rome, Italy.
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Barrios F, Filipponi D, Pellegrini M, Paronetto MP, Di Siena S, Geremia R, Rossi P, De Felici M, Jannini EA, Dolci S. Opposing effects of retinoic acid and FGF9 on Nanos2 expression and meiotic entry of mouse germ cells. J Cell Sci 2010; 123:871-80. [PMID: 20159962 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.057968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In the mouse, three genes that are homologous to the Drosophila Nanos (Nos) gene have been identified. Deletion of one of these genes, Nanos2, results in male sterility, owing to loss of germ cells during fetal life. Before apoptosis, Nanos2-null gonocytes enter meiosis, suggesting that Nanos2 functions as a meiotic repressor. Here, we show that Nanos2 is continuously expressed in male germ cells from fetal gonocytes to postnatal spermatogonial stem cells. We observed that the promeiotic factor AtRA, an analog of retinoic acid (RA), downregulates NANOS2 levels, in both fetal and postnatal gonocytes, while promoting meiosis. Interestingly, FGF9, a growth factor crucial for sex differentiation and survival of fetal gonocytes, upregulates levels of NANOS2 in both male and female primordial germ cells (PGCs) and in premeiotic spermatogonia. This effect was paralleled by an impairment of meiotic entry, suggesting that FGF9 acts as an inhibitor of meiosis through the upregulation of Nanos2. We found that NANOS2 interacts with PUM2, and that these two proteins colocalize in the ribonucleoparticle and polysomal fractions on sucrose gradients, supporting the notion that they bind RNA. Finally, we found that recombinant NANOS2 binds to two spermatogonial mRNAs, Gata2 and Taf7l, which are involved in germ-cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florencia Barrios
- Department of Public Health and Cellular Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Takehashi M, Kanatsu-Shinohara M, Shinohara T. Generation of genetically modified animals using spermatogonial stem cells. Dev Growth Differ 2010; 52:303-10. [PMID: 20148923 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-169x.2009.01167.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) provide the foundation for spermatogenesis, and are unique tissue-specific stem cells because of their ability to transmit genetic information to offspring. Generation of knockout mice using mouse SSCs became feasible after the successful establishment of protocols for the transplantation and long-term culture of these cells, called germline stem (GS) cells. Furthermore, SSCs can acquire pluripotentiality similar to that of embryonic stem (ES) cells, in addition to their highly differentiated spermatogenic potential. These ES-like cells, called multipotent GS (mGS) cells, are capable of generating knockout mice in a manner similar to that of ES cells. The use of GS and mGS cells for animal transgenesis has added a new dimension to gene-targeting technology using ES cells and somatic cell nuclear transfer, which has limited application. Furthermore, for regenerative medicine purposes, the use of mGS will settle problems such as ethics issues and immunological rejection associated with ES cells, as well as risks of insertional mutagenesis associated with integrated genes into induced pluripotent stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Takehashi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Osaka Ohtani University, Tondabayashi, Osaka, Japan.
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Yang Y, Yarahmadi M, Honaramooz A. Development of novel strategies for the isolation of piglet testis cells with a high proportion of gonocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2010; 22:1057-65. [DOI: 10.1071/rd09316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2009] [Accepted: 02/06/2010] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonocytes have germline stem cell potential and are present in the neonatal testis, comprising 5–10% of freshly isolated testis cells. Maximising the number and proportion of gonocytes among freshly isolated testis cells will greatly facilitate their subsequent purification and in vitro study and manipulation. Seven experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of multiple factors on the efficiency of testis cell isolation from neonatal pigs. We found that the use of a lysis buffer led to elimination of erythrocytes without adversely affecting testis cell isolation. Approximately ninefold as many live cells could be harvested by enzymatic digestion of testis tissues compared with mechanical methods. Digestion with collagenase–hyaluronidase–DNase followed by trypsin resulted in the highest recovery of live cells. However, the proportion of gonocytes (∼7%) did not differ between the mechanical and enzymatic methods of testis cell isolation. Pretreatment of the tissue with cold enzymes increased the recovery of live testis cells. New strategies of combining a gentle enzymatic digestion with two rounds of vortexing resulted in the isolation of testis cells with very high gonocyte proportion. The efficiency of these novel methods could be further optimised to collect testis cells with a gonocyte proportion of approximately 40%. This novel three-step testis cell isolation strategy can be completed within 1 h and can harvest approximately 17 × 106 live gonocytes per g testis tissue. Therefore, in addition to elucidating the effects of several factors on testis cell isolation, we developed a novel strategy for the isolation of testis cells that yielded approximately 40% gonocytes in the freshly isolated cells (i.e. four- to eight-fold higher than the proportions obtained using current strategies). This strategy has instant applications in the purification of gonocytes.
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Golestaneh N, Kokkinaki M, Pant D, Jiang J, DeStefano D, Fernandez-Bueno C, Rone JD, Haddad BR, Gallicano GI, Dym M. Pluripotent stem cells derived from adult human testes. Stem Cells Dev 2009; 18:1115-26. [PMID: 19281326 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2008.0347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent reports have demonstrated that adult tissue cells can be induced to pluripotency, the iPS cells, mostly with the addition of genes delivered using viruses. Also, several publications both in mouse and in human have demonstrated that spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) from testes can convert back to embryonic stem (ES)-like cells without the addition of genes. Furthermore, these pluripotent ES-like cells can differentiate into all three germ layers and organ lineages. Thus, SSCs have great potential for cell-based, autologous organ regeneration therapy for various diseases. We obtained testes from organ donors and using 1 g pieces of tissue (biopsy size) we demonstrate that testis germ cells (putative SSCs and/or their progenitors) reprogram to pluripotency when removed from their stem cell niche and when appropriate growth factors and reagents in embryonic stem cell medium are added. In addition, our method of obtaining pluripotent ES-like cells from germ cells is simpler than the described methods and may be more suitable if this procedure is developed for the clinic to obtain pluripotent cells to cure disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nady Golestaneh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3900 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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He Z, Kokkinaki M, Dym M. Signaling molecules and pathways regulating the fate of spermatogonial stem cells. Microsc Res Tech 2009; 72:586-95. [PMID: 19263492 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.20698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is the process that involves the division and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) into mature spermatozoa. SSCs are a subpopulation of type A spermatogonia resting on the basement membrane in the mammalian testis. Self-renewal and differentiation of SSCs are the foundation of normal spermatogenesis, and thus a better understanding of molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways in the SSCs is of paramount importance for the regulation of spermatogenesis and may eventually lead to novel targets for male contraception as well as for gene therapy of male infertility and testicular cancer. Uncovering the molecular mechanisms is also of great interest to a better understanding of SSC aging and for developing novel therapeutic strategies for degenerative diseases in view of the recent work demonstrating the pluripotent potential of the SSC. Progress has recently been made in elucidating the signaling molecules and pathways that determine cell fate decisions of SSCs. In this review, we first address the morphological features, phenotypic characteristics, and the potential of SSCs, and then we focus on the recent advances in defining the key signaling molecules and crucial signaling pathways regulating self-renewal and differentiation of SSCs. The association of aberrant expression of signaling molecules and cascades with abnormal spermatogenesis and testicular cancer are also discussed. Finally, we point out potential future directions to pursue in research on signaling pathways of SSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuping He
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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31
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Mizrak SC, Chikhovskaya JV, Sadri-Ardekani H, van Daalen S, Korver CM, Hovingh SE, Roepers-Gajadien HL, Raya A, Fluiter K, de Reijke TM, de la Rosette JJMCH, Knegt AC, Belmonte JC, van der Veen F, de Rooij DG, Repping S, van Pelt AMM. Embryonic stem cell-like cells derived from adult human testis. Hum Reprod 2009; 25:158-67. [PMID: 19815622 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the significant drawbacks of using human embryonic stem (hES) cells for regenerative medicine, the search for alternative sources of multipotent cells is ongoing. Studies in mice have shown that multipotent ES-like cells can be derived from neonatal and adult testis. Here we report the derivation of ES-like cells from adult human testis. METHODS Testis material was donated for research by four men undergoing bilateral castration as part of prostate cancer treatment. Testicular cells were cultured using StemPro medium. Colonies that appeared sharp edged and compact were collected and subcultured under hES-specific conditions. Molecular characterization of these colonies was performed using RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. (Epi)genetic stability was tested using bisulphite sequencing and karyotype analysis. Directed differentiation protocols in vitro were performed to investigate the potency of these cells and the cells were injected into immunocompromised mice to investigate their tumorigenicity. RESULTS In testicular cell cultures from all four men, sharp-edged and compact colonies appeared between 3 and 8 weeks. Subcultured cells from these colonies showed alkaline phosphatase activity and expressed hES cell-specific genes (Pou5f1, Sox2, Cripto1, Dnmt3b), proteins and carbohydrate antigens (POU5F1, NANOG, SOX2 and TRA-1-60, TRA-1-81, SSEA4). These ES-like cells were able to differentiate in vitro into derivatives of all three germ layers including neural, epithelial, osteogenic, myogenic, adipocyte and pancreatic lineages. The pancreatic beta cells were able to produce insulin in response to glucose and osteogenic-differentiated cells showed deposition of phosphate and calcium, demonstrating their functional capacity. Although we observed small areas with differentiated cell types of human origin, we never observed extensive teratomas upon injection of testis-derived ES-like cells into immunocompromised mice. CONCLUSIONS Multipotent cells can be established from adult human testis. Their easy accessibility and ethical acceptability as well as their non-tumorigenic and autogenic nature make these cells an attractive alternative to human ES cells for future stem cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Mizrak
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105, AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Looijenga LHJ. Human testicular (non)seminomatous germ cell tumours: the clinical implications of recent pathobiological insights. J Pathol 2009; 218:146-62. [PMID: 19253916 DOI: 10.1002/path.2522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Human germ cell tumours (GCTs) comprise several types of neoplasias with different pathogeneses and clinical behaviours. A classification into five subtypes has been proposed. Here, the so-called type II testicular GCTs (TGCTs), ie the seminomas and non-seminomas, will be reviewed with emphasis on pathogenesis and clinical implications. Various risk factors have been identified that define subpopulations of men who are amenable to early diagnosis. TGCTs are omnipotent, able to generate all differentiation lineages, both embryonic and extra-embryonic, as well as the germ cell lineage itself. The precursor lesion, composed of primordial germ cells/gonocytes, is referred to as carcinoma in situ of the testis (CIS) and gonadoblastoma of the dysgenetic gonad. These pre-malignant cells retain embryonic characteristics, which probably explains the unique responsiveness of the derived tumours to DNA-damaging agents. Development of CIS and gonadoblastoma is crucially dependent on the micro-environment created by Sertoli cells in the testis, and granulosa cells in the dysgenetic gonad. OCT3/4 has high sensitivity and specificity for CIS/gonadoblastoma, seminoma, and embryonal carcinoma, and is useful for the detection of CIS cells in semen, thus a promising tool for non-invasive screening. Overdiagnosis of CIS due to germ cell maturation delay can be avoided using immunohistochemical detection of stem cell factor (SCF). Immunohistochemistry is helpful in making the distinction between seminoma and embryonal carcinoma, especially SOX17 and SOX2. The different non-seminomatous histological elements can be recognized using various markers, such as AFP and hCG, while others need confirmation. The value of micro-satellite instability as well as BRAF mutations in predicting treatment resistance needs validation in prospective trials. The availability of representative cell lines, both for seminoma and for embryonal carcinoma, allows mechanistic studies into the initiation and progression of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leendert H J Looijenga
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC-Erasmus University Medical Center, Daniel den Hoed Cancer Center, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Looijenga L. Fortschritte in der Grundlagenforschung bei testikulären Keimzelltumoren. Urologe A 2009; 48:350-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00120-009-1948-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Transient expression of the Arf tumor suppressor during male germ cell and eye development in Arf-Cre reporter mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2009; 106:6285-90. [PMID: 19339492 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0902310106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Arf tumor suppressor is expressed transiently during mouse male germ cell and eye development. Its inactivation compromises spermatogenesis as mice age and leads to aberrant postnatal proliferation of cells in the vitreous of the eye, resulting in blindness. In the testis, expression of p19(Arf) is limited to spermatogonia but is extinguished completely in spermatocytes, suggesting that Arf plays a physiologic role in setting the balance between mitotic and meiotic germ cell division. A knock-in allele encoding Cre recombinase regulated by the mouse cellular Arf promoter was used to trace Arf gene induction in vivo. Interbreeding to a reporter strain that expresses Cre-dependent YFP provided proof-of-principle that the Arf-Cre allele was appropriately expressed in the male germ cell lineage. However, Cre expression resulted in male sterility, limiting germ line transmission of the knock-in allele to females. Arf-null mice fail to resorb the hyaloid vasculature within the ocular vitreous where pericyte-like cells that express the PDGF-beta receptor (Pdgfrbeta) proliferate aberrantly and destroy the retina and lens. Interbreeding of Arf-Cre females to males containing "floxed" (FL) Arf alleles yielded Arf(Cre/FL) progeny that exhibited variably penetrant defects in visual acuity ranging to total blindness. Crossing the Arf(Cre/FL) alleles onto a Pdgfrbeta(FL/FL) background normalized all histopathology and restored vision fully.
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Takashima S, Takehashi M, Lee J, Chuma S, Okano M, Hata K, Suetake I, Nakatsuji N, Miyoshi H, Tajima S, Tanaka Y, Toyokuni S, Sasaki H, Kanatsu-Shinohara M, Shinohara T. Abnormal DNA methyltransferase expression in mouse germline stem cells results in spermatogenic defects. Biol Reprod 2009; 81:155-64. [PMID: 19228594 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.074708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are committed to spermatogenesis, they may also convert to an embryonic stem cell-like pluripotent state at a low frequency. Because changes in DNA methylation patterns are associated with this conversion, we examined the effect of manipulating DNA methyltransferase (Dnmt) expression on the fate of cultured SSCs, germline stem (GS) cells. Dnmt1 knockdown induced apoptosis in GS cells, which was attenuated by the loss of Trp53. In contrast, GS cells proliferated normally in vitro after Dnmt3a/Dnmt3b ablation or during Dnmt3l overexpression. However, Dnmt3a/Dnmt3b double-mutant cells showed hypomethylation in the SineB1 repetitive sequence, and Dnmt3l-overexpressing cells showed hypermethylation in major and minor satellite sequences; neither cell type formed teratomas and completed spermatogenesis following transplantation into the seminiferous tubules. Although genetic manipulation did not increase the conversion of GS cells to a pluripotent state, these results underscore the important role of DNMTs in survival and spermatogenic differentiation in SSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seiji Takashima
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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Lee J, Kanatsu-Shinohara M, Ogonuki N, Miki H, Inoue K, Morimoto T, Morimoto H, Ogura A, Shinohara T. Heritable imprinting defect caused by epigenetic abnormalities in mouse spermatogonial stem cells. Biol Reprod 2008; 80:518-27. [PMID: 19020300 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.072330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Male germ cells undergo dynamic epigenetic reprogramming during fetal development, eventually establishing spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) that can convert into pluripotent stem cells. However, little is known about the developmental potential of fetal germ cells and how they mature into SSCs. We developed a culture system for fetal germ cells that proliferate for long periods of time. Male germ cells from embryos 12.5-18.5 days postcoitum could expand by glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor, a self-renewal factor for SSCs. These cells did not form teratomas, but repopulated seminiferous tubules and produced spermatogenesis, exhibiting spermatogonia potential. However, the offspring from cultured cells showed growth abnormalities and were defective in genomic imprinting. The imprinting defect persisted in both the male and female germlines for at least four generations. Moreover, germ cells in the offspring showed abnormal histone modifications and DNA methylation patterns. These results indicate that fetal germ cells have a limited ability to become pluripotent cells and lose the ability to undergo epigenetic reprogramming by in vitro culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyoung Lee
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
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