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Shi Z, Yu M, Guo T, Sui Y, Tian Z, Ni X, Chen X, Jiang M, Jiang J, Lu Y, Lin M. MicroRNAs in spermatogenesis dysfunction and male infertility: clinical phenotypes, mechanisms and potential diagnostic biomarkers. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1293368. [PMID: 38449855 PMCID: PMC10916303 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1293368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately 10-15% of couples worldwide who are attempting to conceive, with male infertility accounting for 50% of infertility cases. Male infertility is related to various factors such as hormone imbalance, urogenital diseases, environmental factors, and genetic factors. Owing to its relationship with genetic factors, male infertility cannot be diagnosed through routine examination in most cases, and is clinically called 'idiopathic male infertility.' Recent studies have provided evidence that microRNAs (miRNAs) are expressed in a cell-or stage-specific manner during spermatogenesis. This review focuses on the role of miRNAs in male infertility and spermatogenesis. Data were collected from published studies that investigated the effects of miRNAs on spermatogenesis, sperm quality and quantity, fertilization, embryo development, and assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Based on the findings of these studies, we summarize the targets of miRNAs and the resulting functional effects that occur due to changes in miRNA expression at various stages of spermatogenesis, including undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids, and Sertoli cells (SCs). In addition, we discuss potential markers for diagnosing male infertility and predicting the varicocele grade, surgical outcomes, ART outcomes, and sperm retrieval rates in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyan Shi
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Miao Yu
- Science Experiment Center, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tingchao Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yu Sui
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhiying Tian
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiang Ni
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xinren Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Miao Jiang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jingyi Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yongping Lu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Meina Lin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Klees C, Alexandri C, Demeestere I, Lybaert P. The Role of microRNA in Spermatogenesis: Is There a Place for Fertility Preservation Innovation? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:460. [PMID: 38203631 PMCID: PMC10778981 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Oncological treatments have dramatically improved over the last decade, and as a result, survival rates for cancer patients have also improved. Quality of life, including concerns about fertility, has become a major focus for both oncologists and patients. While oncologic treatments are often highly effective at suppressing neoplastic growth, they are frequently associated with severe gonadotoxicity, leading to infertility. For male patients, the therapeutic option to preserve fertility is semen cryopreservation. In prepubertal patients, immature testicular tissue can be sampled and stored to allow post-cure transplantation of the tissue, immature germ cells, or in vitro spermatogenesis. However, experimental techniques have not yet been proven effective for restoring sperm production for these patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as promising molecular markers and therapeutic tools in various diseases. These small regulatory RNAs possess the unique characteristic of having multiple gene targets. MiRNA-based therapeutics can, therefore, be used to modulate the expression of different genes involved in signaling pathways dysregulated by changes in the physiological environment (disease, temperature, ex vivo culture, pharmacological agents). This review discusses the possible role of miRNA as an innovative treatment option in male fertility preservation-restoration strategies and describes the diverse applications where these new therapeutic tools could serve as fertility protection agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Klees
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.K.); (C.A.); (I.D.)
| | - Chrysanthi Alexandri
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.K.); (C.A.); (I.D.)
| | - Isabelle Demeestere
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.K.); (C.A.); (I.D.)
- Fertility Clinic, HUB-Erasme Hospital, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pascale Lybaert
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.K.); (C.A.); (I.D.)
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Olotu O, Ahmedani A, Kotaja N. Small Non-Coding RNAs in Male Reproduction. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:213-225. [PMID: 38346711 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1779726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Male reproductive functions are strictly regulated in order to maintain sperm production and fertility. All processes are controlled by precise regulation of gene expression, which creates specific gene expression programs for different developmental stages and cell types, and forms the functional basis for the reproductive system. Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) are involved in gene regulation by targeting mRNAs for translational repression and degradation through complementary base pairing to recognize their targets. This review article summarizes the current knowledge on the function of different classes of sncRNAs, in particular microRNAs (miRNAs) and PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), during male germ cell differentiation, with the focus on sncRNAs expressed in the germline. Although transcriptionally inactive, mature spermatozoa contain a complex population of sncRNAs, and we also discuss the recently identified role of sperm sncRNAs in the intergenerational transmission of epigenetic information on father's environmental and lifestyle exposures to offspring. Finally, we summarize the current information on the utility of sncRNAs as potential biomarkers of infertility that may aid in the diagnosis and prediction of outcomes of medically assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Opeyemi Olotu
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Ammar Ahmedani
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Noora Kotaja
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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Andone BA, Handrea-Dragan IM, Botiz I, Boca S. State-of-the-art and future perspectives in infertility diagnosis: Conventional versus nanotechnology-based assays. NANOMEDICINE : NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOLOGY, AND MEDICINE 2023; 54:102709. [PMID: 37717928 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2023.102709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
According to the latest World Health Organization statistics, around 50 to 80 million people worldwide suffer from infertility, amongst which male factors are responsible for around 20 to 30 % of all infertility cases while 50 % were attributed to the female ones. As it is becoming a recurrent health problem worldwide, clinicians require more accurate methods for the improvement of both diagnosis and treatment schemes. By emphasizing the potential use of innovative methods for the rapid identification of the infertility causes, this review presents the news from this dynamic domain and highlights the benefits brought by emerging research fields. A systematic description of the standard techniques used in clinical protocols for diagnosing infertility in both genders is firstly provided, followed by the presentation of more accurate and comprehensive nanotechnology-related analysis methods such as nanoscopic-resolution imaging, biosensing approaches and assays that employ nanomaterials in their design. Consequently, the implementation of nanotechnology related tools in clinical practice, as recently demonstrated in the selection of spermatozoa, the detection of key proteins in the fertilization process or the testing of DNA integrity or the evaluation of oocyte quality, might confer excellent advantages both for improving the assessment of infertility, and for the success of the fertilization process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca-Astrid Andone
- Interdisciplinary Research Institute in Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, 42 T. Laurian Str., 400271 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Faculty of Physics, Babes-Bolyai University, 1 M. Kogalniceanu Str., 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Iuliana M Handrea-Dragan
- Interdisciplinary Research Institute in Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, 42 T. Laurian Str., 400271 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Faculty of Physics, Babes-Bolyai University, 1 M. Kogalniceanu Str., 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioan Botiz
- Interdisciplinary Research Institute in Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, 42 T. Laurian Str., 400271 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Sanda Boca
- Interdisciplinary Research Institute in Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, 42 T. Laurian Str., 400271 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, 67-103 Donat Str., 400293 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
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Dong Z, Ning Q, Liu Y, Wang S, Wang F, Luo X, Chen N, Lei C. Comparative transcriptomics analysis of testicular miRNA from indicine and taurine cattle. Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:1436-1446. [PMID: 35130471 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2022.2029466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies have shown that several microRNAs (miRNAs) are specifically expressed in testis, play an essential role in regulating testicular spermatogenesis. Hainan and Mongolian cattle are two representative Chinese native cattle breeds representing Bos indicus (indicine cattle) and Bos taurus (taurine cattle), respectively, which are distributed in hot Hainan and cold Inner Mongolia province. To study the functional differences of miRNA in spermatogenesis between indicine and taurine cattle, six mature testes samples from indicine cattle (n = 3) and taurine cattle (n = 3) were collected, respectively. We detected miRNA expression using small RNA sequencing technology following bioinformatic analysis. A total of 578 known miRNAs and 132 novel miRNAs were detected in the six libraries. Among the 710 miRNAs, 564 miRNAs were expressed in both indicine and taurine cattle, 73 miRNAs were found solely in indicine cattle and 73 miRNAs were found solely in taurine cattle. After further analysis, among the miRNAs were identified in both indicine and taurine cattle, 184 miRNAs were differentially expressed (|log2 fold change| ≥ 1 and corrected p-value <0.05). Among the miRNAs that were only expressed in indicine cattle, 10 miRNAs were differentially expressed, whereas, among the miRNAs that were only expressed in taurine cattle, six miRNAs were differentially expressed. The enrichment analysis result showed that predicted target genes of a total of 200 differentially expressed miRNAs were enriched on some testicular spermatogenesis-related Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, especially mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. These findings identify miRNAs as key factors to regulate spermatogenesis in both indicine and taurine cattle, which may also be helpful for improving cattle reproductive performance in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Dong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Qingqing Ning
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yangkai Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Shikang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Fuwen Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Xiaoyu Luo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Ningbo Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Chuzhao Lei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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6
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Hashemi Karoii D, Azizi H. Functions and mechanism of noncoding RNA in regulation and differentiation of male mammalian reproduction. Cell Biochem Funct 2023; 41:767-778. [PMID: 37583312 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are active regulators of a wide range of biological and physiological processes, including the majority of mammalian reproductive events. Knowledge of the biological activities of ncRNAs in the context of mammalian reproduction will allow for a more comprehensive and comparative understanding of male sterility and fertility. In this review, we describe recent advances in ncRNA-mediated control of mammalian reproduction and emphasize the importance of ncRNAs in several aspects of mammalian reproduction, such as germ cell biogenesis and reproductive organ activity. Furthermore, we focus on gene expression regulatory feedback loops including hormones and ncRNA expression to better understand germ cell commitment and reproductive organ function. Finally, this study shows the role of ncRNAs in male reproductive failure and provides suggestions for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danial Hashemi Karoii
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
| | - Hossein Azizi
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
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Elesawy AE, Abulsoud AI, Moustafa HAM, Elballal MS, Sallam AAM, Elazazy O, El-Dakroury WA, Abdel Mageed SS, Abdelmaksoud NM, Midan HM, Shahin RK, Elrebehy MA, Nassar YA, Elazab IM, Elballal AS, Elballal MS, Doghish AS. miRNAs orchestration of testicular germ cell tumors - Particular emphasis on diagnosis, progression and drug resistance. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 248:154612. [PMID: 37327566 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Testicular cancer (TC) is one of the most frequently incident solid tumors in males. A growing prevalence has been documented in developed countries. Although recent advances have made TC an exceedingly treatable cancer, numerous zones in TC care still have divisive treatment decisions. In addition to physical examination and imaging techniques, conventional serum tumor markers have been traditionally used for the diagnosis of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT). Unlike other genital and urinary tract tumors, recent research methods have not been broadly used in TGCTs. Even though several challenges in TC care must be addressed, a dedicated group of biomarkers could be particularly beneficial to help classify patient risk, detect relapse early, guide surgery decisions, and tailor follow-up. Existing tumor markers (Alpha-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotrophin, and lactate dehydrogenase) have limited accuracy and sensitivity when used as diagnostic, prognostic, or predictive markers. At present, microRNAs (miRNA or miR) play a crucial role in the process of several malignancies. The miRNAs exhibit pronounced potential as novel biomarkers since they reveal high stability in body fluids, are easily detected, and are relatively inexpensive in quantitative assays. In this review, we aimed to shed light on the recent novelties in developing microRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic markers in TC and discuss their clinical applications in TC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed E Elesawy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Ahmed I Abulsoud
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11231, Cairo, Egypt; Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt.
| | - Hebatallah Ahmed Mohamed Moustafa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Mohammed S Elballal
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Al-Aliaa M Sallam
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Ola Elazazy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Walaa A El-Dakroury
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Sherif S Abdel Mageed
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | | | - Heba M Midan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Reem K Shahin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud A Elrebehy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Yara A Nassar
- Biology Department, School of Biotechnology, Badr University in Cairo, Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim M Elazab
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Elballal
- Department of Dentistry, Medical Administration, University of Sadat City Menoufia 32897, Egypt
| | | | - Ahmed S Doghish
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11231, Cairo, Egypt.
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8
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Chen J, Han C. In vivo functions of miRNAs in mammalian spermatogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1154938. [PMID: 37215089 PMCID: PMC10196063 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1154938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are believed to play important roles in mammalian spermatogenesis mainly because spermatogenesis is more or less disrupted when genes encoding key enzymes for miRNA biogenesis are mutated. However, it is challenging to study the functions of individual miRNAs due to their family-wise high sequence similarities and the clustered genomic distributions of their genes, both of which expose difficulties in using genetic methods. Accumulating evidence shows that a number of miRNAs indeed play important roles in mammalian spermatogenesis and the underlying mechanisms start to be understood. In this mini review, we focus on highlighting the roles of miRNAs in mammalian spermatogenesis elucidated mainly by using in vivo genetic methods and on discussing the underlying mechanisms. We propose that studies on the roles of miRNAs in spermatogenesis should and can be conducted in a more fruitful way given the progress in traditional methods and the birth of new technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chunsheng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Zhong D, Yao C, Zhang L, Wang J, Liu Q, Shi D, Jiang M, Li H. Comprehensive analysis of long non-coding RNA expression profiles of GC-1spg cells with m6A methylation knockdown. Gene 2023; 871:147430. [PMID: 37062454 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147430] [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: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process that requires many regulatory mechanisms to form healthy sperm. Numerous studies have also proved that m6A methylation modification and lncRNA are essential for normal spermatogenesis. However, the mutual regulation of m6A methylation and lncRNA in spermatogenesis is still unclear. In this study, we knocked down METTL3 in GC-1spg cells and found that a reduction in METTL3 increased cell proliferation. Further, we examined the lncRNA expression profiles of normal spermatogonia and spermatogonia with knocked down METTL3. We detected 30,924 lncRNAs, of which 34 were up-regulated and 77 down-regulated. The results of the MeRIP-qPCR experiment showed that ENSMUST00000186472, MSTRG.8019.3 and ENSMUST00000202148 had m6A methylation sites and were regulated by METTL3. We constructed ceRNA networks for these 3 lncRNAs. And we identified that these 3 lncRNAs might act as miRNA sponges to regulate some genes related to spermatogenesis. This study focuses on exploring the regulatory mechanisms of m6A methylation on lncRNAs in spermatogonia and provides some epigenetic theories for subsequent studies on the expression mechanisms of lncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Zhong
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Chengxuan Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Liyin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Jian Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Qingyou Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, 528225, China
| | - Deshun Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Mingsheng Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China.
| | - Hui Li
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China.
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10
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Corpuz-Hilsabeck M, Culty M. Impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals and pharmaceuticals on Sertoli cell development and functions. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1095894. [PMID: 36793282 PMCID: PMC9922725 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1095894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells play essential roles in male reproduction, from supporting fetal testis development to nurturing male germ cells from fetal life to adulthood. Dysregulating Sertoli cell functions can have lifelong adverse effects by jeopardizing early processes such as testis organogenesis, and long-lasting processes such as spermatogenesis. Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is recognized as contributing to the rising incidence of male reproductive disorders and decreasing sperm counts and quality in humans. Some drugs also act as endocrine disruptors by exerting off-target effects on endocrine tissues. However, the mechanisms of toxicity of these compounds on male reproduction at doses compatible with human exposure are still not fully resolved, especially in the case of mixtures, which remain understudied. This review presents first an overview of the mechanisms regulating Sertoli cell development, maintenance, and functions, and then surveys what is known on the impact of EDCs and drugs on immature Sertoli cells, including individual compounds and mixtures, and pinpointing at knowledge gaps. Performing more studies on the impact of mixtures of EDCs and drugs at all ages is crucial to fully understand the adverse outcomes these chemicals may induce on the reproductive system.
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Prmt7 Downregulation in Mouse Spermatogonia Functions through miR-877-3p/ Col6a3. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12081194. [PMID: 36013373 PMCID: PMC9410080 DOI: 10.3390/life12081194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Protein arginine methyltransferases 7 (Prmt7) is expressed in male germ cells, including primordial germ cells, gonocytes, and spermatogonia. Our previous study demonstrated that Prmt7 downregulation reduced the proliferation of GC-1 cells (a cell line of mouse immortalized spermatogonia). However, how Prmt7 regulates spermatogonial proliferation through miRNA and the target gene remains elusive. Here, we experimentally reduced the Prmt7 expression in the GC-1 cells and subjected them to miRNA sequencing to explore the miRNA profile and its Prmt7-responsive members. In total, 48 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs), including 36 upregulated and 12 downregulated miRNAs, were identified. After verifying the validity of sequencing results through qRT-PCR assays in randomly selected DEmiRNAs, we predicted the target genes of these DEmiRNAs. Next, we combined DEmiRNA target genes and previously identified differentially expressed genes between Prmt7 knockdown and control groups of GC-1 cells, which resulted in seven miRNA/target gene pairs. Among these miRNA/target gene pairs, we further detected the expression of Col6a3 (collagen type VI alpha 3) as the target gene of mmu-miR-877-3p. The results suggested that Prmt7 downregulation in mouse spermatogonia might function through miR-877-3p/Col6a3. Overall, these findings provide new insights into the role of Prmt7 in male germ cell development through miRNA and target genes.
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Chen J, Gao C, Luo M, Zheng C, Lin X, Ning Y, Ma L, He W, Xie D, Liu K, Hong K, Han C. MicroRNA-202 safeguards meiotic progression by preventing premature SEPARASE-mediated REC8 cleavage. EMBO Rep 2022; 23:e54298. [PMID: 35712867 PMCID: PMC9346496 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202154298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are believed to play important roles in mammalian spermatogenesis but the in vivo functions of single miRNAs in this highly complex developmental process remain unclear. Here, we report that miR-202, a member of the let-7 family, plays an important role in spermatogenesis by phenotypic evaluation of miR-202 knockout (KO) mice. Loss of miR-202 results in spermatocyte apoptosis and perturbation of the zygonema-to-pachynema transition. Multiple processes during meiosis prophase I including synapsis and crossover formation are disrupted, and inter-sister chromatid synapses are detected. Moreover, we demonstrate that Separase mRNA is a miR-202 direct target and provides evidence that miR-202 upregulates REC8 by repressing Separase expression. Therefore, we have identified miR-202 as a new regulating noncoding gene that acts on the established SEPARASE-REC8 axis in meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Chenxu Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Mengcheng Luo
- Department of Tissue and EmbryologyHubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated DiseaseSchool of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Chunwei Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Xiwen Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Yan Ning
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Longfei Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Wei He
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Dan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Kui Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility RegulationCenter of Assisted Reproduction and EmbryologyThe University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Kai Hong
- Department of UrologyPeking University Third HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Chunsheng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijingChina
- Savaid Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
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13
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Jia B, Zhang L, Ma F, Wang X, Li J, Diao N, Leng X, Shi K, Zeng F, Zong Y, Liu F, Gong Q, Cai R, Yang F, Du R, Chang Z. Comparison of miRNA and mRNA Expression in Sika Deer Testes With Age. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:854503. [PMID: 35464385 PMCID: PMC9019638 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.854503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
To elucidate the complex physiological process of testis development and spermatogenesis in Sika deer, this study evaluated the changes of miRNA and mRNA profiles in the four developmental stages of testis in the juvenile (1-year-old), adolescence (3-year-old), adult (5-year-old), and aged (10-year-old) stages. The results showed that a total of 198 mature, 66 novel miRNAs, and 23,558 differentially expressed (DE) unigenes were obtained; 14,918 (8,413 up and 6,505 down), 4,988 (2,453 up and 2,535 down), and 5,681 (2,929 up and 2,752 down) DE unigenes, as well as 88 (43 up and 45 down), 102 (44 up and 58 down), and 54 (18 up and 36 down) DE miRNAs were identified in 3- vs. 1-, 5- vs. 3-, and 10- vs. 5-year-old testes, respectively. By integrating miRNA and mRNA expression profiles, we predicted 10,790 mRNA-mRNA and 69,883 miRNA-mRNA interaction sites. The target genes were enriched by GO and KEGG pathways to obtain DE mRNA (IGF1R, ALKBH5, Piwil, HIF1A, BRDT, etc.) and DE miRNA (miR-140, miR-145, miR-7, miR-26a, etc.), which play an important role in testis development and spermatogenesis. The data show that DE miRNAs could regulate testis developmental and spermatogenesis through signaling pathways, including the MAPK signaling pathway, p53 signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Hippo signaling pathway, etc. miR-140 was confirmed to directly target mutant IGF1R-3'UTR by the Luciferase reporter assays. This study provides a useful resource for future studies on the role of miRNA regulation in testis development and spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyin Jia
- College of Animal Medicine/College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.,Laboratory of Production and Product Application of Sika Deer of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Linlin Zhang
- College of Animal Medicine/College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Fuquan Ma
- College of Animal Medicine/College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Xue Wang
- College of Animal Medicine/College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianming Li
- Laboratory of Production and Product Application of Sika Deer of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.,College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Naichao Diao
- College of Animal Medicine/College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.,Laboratory of Production and Product Application of Sika Deer of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Xue Leng
- Laboratory of Production and Product Application of Sika Deer of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.,College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Kun Shi
- Laboratory of Production and Product Application of Sika Deer of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.,College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Fanli Zeng
- Laboratory of Production and Product Application of Sika Deer of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.,College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Ying Zong
- Laboratory of Production and Product Application of Sika Deer of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.,College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Fei Liu
- College of Animal Medicine/College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.,Laboratory of Production and Product Application of Sika Deer of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Qinglong Gong
- College of Animal Medicine/College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.,Laboratory of Production and Product Application of Sika Deer of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Ruopeng Cai
- College of Animal Medicine/College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.,Laboratory of Production and Product Application of Sika Deer of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Fuhe Yang
- Institute of Wild Economic Animals and Plants and State Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Special Economical Animals, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Rui Du
- Laboratory of Production and Product Application of Sika Deer of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.,College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhiguang Chang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
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14
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Li S, Wang Q, Huang L, Fan S, Li T, Shu Y, Zhang C, Zhou Y, Liu Q, Luo K, Tao M, Liu S. miR-199-5p regulates spermiogenesis at the posttranscriptional level via targeting Tekt1 in allotriploid crucian carp. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2022; 13:44. [PMID: 35418106 PMCID: PMC9009052 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-022-00693-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm abnormalities are one of the primary factors leading to male sterility, but their pathogenesis is still unclear. Although miRNAs are suggested to exert important roles in the regulation of spermatogenesis at both transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels, little is currently known regarding the regulation of sperm flagella assembly by microRNAs (miRNAs). The role of miRNAs in the development of sperm abnormalities in sterile triploid fish has not been studied. RESULTS In this study, we found that miR-199-5p was widely expressed in all detected tissues of different-ploidy crucian carp. As one of the testis-specific candidate markers, Tekt1 was predominantly expressed in the testis. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analyses showed that the expression trend of miR-199-5p was exactly opposite to that of Tekt1. Through bioinformatics analysis, we identified a putative miR-199-5p binding site in the Tekt1 mRNA. We further identified Tekt1 as a target of miR-199-5p using luciferase reporter assay. Finally, we confirmed that miR-199-5p was necessary for sperm flagellar assembly and spermatogenesis in vivo via intraperitoneal injection of miR-199-5p antagomir or agomir in diploid red crucian carp. Moreover, miR-199-5p gain-of-function could lead to spermatids apoptosis and abnormal spermatozoa structure, which is similar to that of allotriploid crucian carp. CONCLUSIONS Our studies suggested that abnormally elevated miR-199-5p inhibited the sperm flagella formation in spermiogenesis by negatively regulating the expression of Tekt1, thereby causing sperm abnormalities of male allotriploid crucian carp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengnan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, PR China
| | - Qiubei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, PR China
| | - Lu Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, PR China
| | - Siyu Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, PR China
| | - Ting Li
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, PR China
| | - Yuqing Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, PR China
| | - Chun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, PR China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, PR China
| | - Yi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, PR China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, PR China
| | - Qingfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, PR China
| | - Kaikun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, PR China
| | - Min Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, PR China. .,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, PR China.
| | - Shaojun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, PR China. .,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, PR China.
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15
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Lee GS, Conine CC. The Transmission of Intergenerational Epigenetic Information by Sperm microRNAs. EPIGENOMES 2022; 6:epigenomes6020012. [PMID: 35466187 PMCID: PMC9036291 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes6020012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic information is transmitted from one generation to the next, modulating the phenotype of offspring non-genetically in organisms ranging from plants to mammals. For intergenerational non-genetic inheritance to occur, epigenetic information must accumulate in germ cells. The three main carriers of epigenetic information-histone post-translational modifications, DNA modifications, and RNAs-all exhibit dynamic patterns of regulation during germ cell development. For example, histone modifications and DNA methylation are extensively reprogrammed and often eliminated during germ cell maturation and after fertilization during embryogenesis. Consequently, much attention has been given to RNAs, specifically small regulatory RNAs, as carriers of inherited epigenetic information. In this review, we discuss examples in which microRNAs have been implicated as key players in transmitting paternal epigenetic information intergenerationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace S. Lee
- Pharmacology Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Colin C. Conine
- Departments of Genetics and Pediatrics—Penn Epigenetics Institute, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, and Center for Reproduction and Women’s Health, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Correspondence:
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16
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Yokota S, Takeda K, Oshio S. Spatiotemporal Small Non-coding RNAs Expressed in the Germline as an Early Biomarker of Testicular Toxicity and Transgenerational Effects Caused by Prenatal Exposure to Nanosized Particles. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2022; 3:691070. [PMID: 35295114 PMCID: PMC8915876 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2021.691070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, an apparent decline in human sperm quality has been observed worldwide. One in every 5.5 couples suffers from infertility, with male reproductive problems contributing to nearly 40% of all infertility cases. Although the reasons for the increasing number of infertility cases are largely unknown, both genetic and environmental factors can be contributing factors. In particular, exposure to chemical substances during mammalian male germ cell development has been linked to an increased risk of infertility in later life owing to defective sperm production, reproductive tract obstruction, inflammation, and sexual disorders. Prenatal exposure to nanomaterials (NMs) is no exception. In animal experiments, maternal exposure to NMs has been reported to affect the reproductive health of male offspring. Male germ cells require multiple epigenetic reprogramming events during their lifespan to acquire reproductive capacity. Given that spermatozoa deliver the paternal genome to oocytes upon fertilization, we hypothesized that maternal exposure to NMs negatively affects male germ cells by altering epigenetic regulation, which may in turn affect embryo development. Small non-coding RNAs (including microRNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs, tRNA-derived small RNAs, and rRNA-derived small RNAs), which are differentially expressed in mammalian male germ cells in a spatiotemporal manner, could play important regulatory roles in spermatogenesis and embryogenesis. Thus, the evaluation of RNAs responsible for sperm fertility is of great interest in reproductive toxicology and medicine. However, whether the effect of maternal exposure to NMs on spermatogenesis in the offspring (intergenerational effects) really triggers multigenerational effects remains unclear, and infertility biomarkers for evaluating paternal inheritance have not been identified to date. In this review, existing lines of evidence on the effects of prenatal exposure to NMs on male reproduction are summarized. A working hypothesis of the transgenerational effects of sperm-derived epigenomic changes in the F1 generation is presented, in that such maternal exposure could affect early embryonic development followed by deficits in neurodevelopment and male reproduction in the F2 generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Yokota
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Toxicology, Center for Biological Safety and Research, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Ken Takeda
- Division of Toxicology and Health Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sanyo-Onoda City University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Shigeru Oshio
- Department of Hygiene Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ohu University, Koriyama, Japan
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17
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Lord T, Law NC, Oatley MJ, Miao D, Du G, Oatley JM. A novel high throughput screen to identify candidate molecular networks that regulate spermatogenic stem cell functions. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:1175-1190. [PMID: 35244684 PMCID: PMC9198950 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenic regeneration is key for male fertility and relies on activities of an undifferentiated spermatogonial population. Here, a high throughput approach with primary cultures of mouse spermatogonia was devised to rapidly predict alterations in functional capacity. Combining the platform with a large scale RNAi screen of transcription factors, we generated a repository of new information from which pathway analysis was able to predict candidate molecular networks regulating regenerative functions. Extending from this database, the SRCAP-CREBBP/EP300 complex was found to mediate differential levels of histone acetylation between stem cell and progenitor spermatogonia to influence expression of key self-renewal genes including the previously undescribed testis specific transcription factor ZSCAN2. Single cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed that ZSCAN2 deficiency alters key cellular processes in undifferentiated spermatogonia such as translation, chromatin modification, and ubiquitination. In Zscan2 knockout mice, while spermatogenesis was moderately impacted during steady-state, regeneration after cytotoxic insult was significantly impaired. Together, these findings have validated the utility of our high throughput screening approach and have generated a transcription factor database that can be utilized for uncovering novel mechanisms governing spermatogonial functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Lord
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Centre for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2300, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Infertility and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Nathan C Law
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Centre for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Melissa J Oatley
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Centre for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Deqiang Miao
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Centre for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Guihua Du
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Centre for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Jon M Oatley
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Centre for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
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18
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Wu D, Khan FA, Huo L, Sun F, Huang C. Alternative splicing and MicroRNA: epigenetic mystique in male reproduction. RNA Biol 2022; 19:162-175. [PMID: 35067179 PMCID: PMC8786336 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2021.2024033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility is rarely life threatening, however, it poses a serious global health issue posing far-reaching socio-economic impacts affecting 12–15% of couples worldwide where male factor accounts for 70%. Functional spermatogenesis which is the result of several concerted coordinated events to produce sperms is at the core of male fertility, Alternative splicing and microRNA (miRNA) mediated RNA silencing (RNAi) constitute two conserved post-transcriptional gene (re)programming machinery across species. The former by diversifying transcriptome signature and the latter by repressing target mRNA activity orchestrate a spectrum of testicular events, and their dysfunctions has several implications in male infertility. This review recapitulates the knowledge of these mechanistic events in regulation of spermatogenesis and testicular homoeostasis. In addition, miRNA payload in sperm, vulnerable to paternal inputs, including unhealthy diet, infection and trauma, creates epigenetic memory to initiate intergenerational phenotype. Naive zygote injection of sperm miRNAs from stressed father recapitulates phenotypes of offspring of stressed father. The epigenetic inheritance of paternal pathologies through miRNA could be a tantalizing avenue to better appreciate ‘Paternal Origins of Health and Disease’ and the power of tiny sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Faheem Ahmed Khan
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Lijun Huo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Chunjie Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, China
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19
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Diao L, Turek PJ, John CM, Fang F, Reijo Pera RA. Roles of Spermatogonial Stem Cells in Spermatogenesis and Fertility Restoration. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:895528. [PMID: 35634498 PMCID: PMC9135128 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.895528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are a group of adult stem cells in the testis that serve as the foundation of continuous spermatogenesis and male fertility. SSCs are capable of self-renewal to maintain the stability of the stem cell pool and differentiation to produce mature spermatozoa. Dysfunction of SSCs leads to male infertility. Therefore, dissection of the regulatory network of SSCs is of great significance in understanding the fundamental molecular mechanisms of spermatogonial stem cell function in spermatogenesis and the pathogenesis of male infertility. Furthermore, a better understanding of SSC biology will allow us to culture and differentiate SSCs in vitro, which may provide novel stem cell-based therapy for assisted reproduction. This review summarizes the latest research progress on the regulation of SSCs, and the potential application of SSCs for fertility restoration through in vivo and in vitro spermatogenesis. We anticipate that the knowledge gained will advance the application of SSCs to improve male fertility. Furthermore, in vitro spermatogenesis from SSCs sets the stage for the production of SSCs from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and subsequent spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Diao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | | | | | - Fang Fang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Fang Fang, ; Renee A. Reijo Pera,
| | - Renee A. Reijo Pera
- McLaughlin Research Institute, Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine – Montana (TouroCOM-MT), Great Falls, MT, United States
- Research Division, Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine – Montana (TouroCOM-MT), Great Falls, MT, United States
- *Correspondence: Fang Fang, ; Renee A. Reijo Pera,
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20
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Walker WH. Regulation of mammalian spermatogenesis by miRNAs. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 121:24-31. [PMID: 34006455 PMCID: PMC8591147 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Male fertility requires the continual production of sperm by the process of spermatogenesis. This process requires the correct timing of regulatory signals to germ cells during each phase of their development. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) in germ cells and supporting Sertoli cells respond to regulatory signals and cause down- or upregulation of mRNAs and proteins required to produce proteins that act in various pathways to support spermatogenesis. The targets and functional consequences of altered miRNA expression in undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids and Sertoli cells are discussed. Mechanisms are reviewed by which miRNAs contribute to decisions that promote spermatogonia stem cell self-renewal versus differentiation, entry into and progression through meiosis, differentiation of spermatids, as well as the regulation of Sertoli cell proliferation and differentiation. Also discussed are miRNA actions providing the very first signals for the differentiation of spermatogonia stem cells in a non-human primate model of puberty initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H. Walker
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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21
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Al-Rawaf HA, Gabr SA, Alghadir AH. The Potential Role of Circulating MicroRNAs in Male Rat Infertility Treated with Kaempferia parviflora. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2021; 2021:9622494. [PMID: 34956389 PMCID: PMC8709766 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9622494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Therapeutic strategies based on herbal plants and diets containing sufficient amounts of antioxidants and essential vitamins are very important factors in treating reproduction and male infertility worldwide. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the potential effects of Kaempferia parviflora (KP) on the role of some microRNAs in treated and nontreated infertile rats. In addition, the correlation of expressed microRNAs with sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm viability was identified. The probable use of these microRNAs as a diagnostic marker for predicting the clinical response of infertility to the treatment with KP was also achieved. METHODS In the present study, the potential effects of Kaempferia parviflora (KP) at different doses (140, 280, and 420 mg/kg) for six weeks on male rats with subinfertility were explored. In addition, the effect of KP on the expression of circulating microRNAs and its correlation with the parameters of sexual infertility was identified by performing both in vitro and in vivo assays. In vitro antioxidant activity, sperm functional analysis, serum testosterone, and expression of circulating microRNAs were conducted using colorimetric, ELISA, and real-time RT-PCR analysis, respectively. RESULTS Kaempferia parviflora (KP) at nontoxic doses of 140-420 mg/kg/day for six weeks significantly improved serum testosterone and epididymal sperm parameters (sperm count, motility, and sperm viability), increased testicular weight, and provided a reduction in the percentage of abnormal spermatozoon in infertile male rats. The expression of miR-328 and miR-19b significantly decreased, and miR-34 significantly increased in infertile rats treated with KP compared to infertile nontreated rats. After six weeks of KP therapy, the change in the expression levels of miRNAs was correlated positively with higher levels of serum testosterone and the measures of epididymal sperm parameters. The respective area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) was applied to predict the potential use of miR-328, miR-19b, and miR-34 in the diagnosis of male infertility in treated and nontreated infertile male rats. The data showed that AUC cutoff values of 0.91 for miR-328, 0.89 for miR-19b, and 0.86 for miR34 were the best estimated values for the clinical diagnosis of male rats with infertility. In rats treated with KP for six weeks, AUC cutoff values of 0.76 for miR-328, 0.79 for miR-19b, and 0.81 for miR-34 were the best cutoff values reported for the clinical response of infertility to KP therapy after six weeks. CONCLUSIONS In this study, the improvement of male infertility might proceed via antioxidant and antiapoptotic pathways, which significantly improve spermatogenesis and aphrodisiac properties of males. In addition, the expression of miRNAs, miR-328, miR-34, and miR-19b, in KP-treated and nontreated infertile rats significantly correlated with increased serum testosterone levels and epididymal sperm parameters as well. MicroRNAs, miR-328, miR-34, and miR-19b, might be related to oxidative and apoptotic pathways that proceeded in spermatogenesis. Thus, the use of miRNAs could have a role as diagnostic, therapeutic, and predictive markers for assessing the clinical response of Kaempferia parviflora treatment for six weeks. This may have potential applications in the therapeutic strategies based on herbal plants for male infertility. However, in subsequent studies, the genetic regulatory mechanisms of the expressed miRNAs should be fully characterized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadeel A. Al-Rawaf
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami A. Gabr
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad H. Alghadir
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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22
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Sellem E, Jammes H, Schibler L. Sperm-borne sncRNAs: potential biomarkers for semen fertility? Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 34:160-173. [PMID: 35231268 DOI: 10.1071/rd21276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Semen infertility or sub-fertility, whether in humans or livestock species, remains a major concern for clinicians and technicians involved in reproduction. Indeed, they can cause tragedies in human relationships or have a dramatic overall negative impact on the sustainability of livestock breeding. Understanding and predicting semen fertility issues is therefore crucial and quality control procedures as well as biomarkers have been proposed to ensure sperm fertility. However, their predictive values appeared to be too limited and additional relevant biomarkers are still required to diagnose sub-fertility efficiently. During the last decade, the study of molecular mechanisms involved in spermatogenesis and sperm maturation highlighted the regulatory role of a variety of small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) and led to the discovery that sperm sncRNAs comprise both remnants from spermatogenesis and post-testicular sncRNAs acquired through interactions with extracellular vesicles along epididymis. This has led to the hypothesis that sncRNAs may be a source of relevant biomarkers, associated either with sperm functionality or embryo development. This review aims at providing a synthetic overview of the current state of knowledge regarding implication of sncRNA in spermatogenesis defects and their putative roles in sperm maturation and embryo development, as well as exploring their use as fertility biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli Sellem
- R&D Department, ALLICE, 149 rue de Bercy, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Hélène Jammes
- Université Paris Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France; and Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
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23
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Ding Y, Ding N, Zhang Y, Xie S, Huang M, Ding X, Dong W, Zhang Q, Jiang L. MicroRNA-222 Transferred From Semen Extracellular Vesicles Inhibits Sperm Apoptosis by Targeting BCL2L11. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:736864. [PMID: 34820370 PMCID: PMC8607813 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.736864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma contains a large number of extracellular vesicles (EVs). However, the roles of these EVs and their interactions with sperm are not clear. To identify the important molecules affecting sperm motility in EVs, we analyzed RNA from seminal plasma EVs of boars with different sperm motility using whole-transcriptome sequencing and proteomic analysis. In total, 7 miRNAs, 67 lncRNAs, 126 mRNAs and 76 proteins were differentially expressed between the two groups. We observed that EV-miR-222 can obviously improve sperm motility. In addition, the results suggested that miR-222 was transferred into sperm by the EVs and that miR-222 affected sperm apoptosis by inhibiting the expression of EGFR, BCL2L11, BAX, CYCs, CASP9 and CASP3. The results of electron microscopy also showed that overexpression of miR-222 in EVs could reduce sperm apoptosis. The study of the whole transcriptomes and proteomes of EVs in boar semen revealed some miRNAs may play an important role in these EVs interactions with Duroc sperm, and the findings suggest that the release of miR-222 by semen EVs is an important mechanism by which sperm viability is maintained and sperm apoptosis is reduced. Our studies provide a new insight of miR-222 in EVs regulation for sperm motility and sperm apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqun Ding
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Ding
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Shenmin Xie
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Mengna Huang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangdong Ding
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Wuzi Dong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Li Jiang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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24
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Overexpression of miR-221 stimulates proliferation of rat neural stem cell with activating Phosphatase and tensin homolog/protein kinase B signaling pathway. Neuroreport 2021; 31:1015-1023. [PMID: 32858649 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000001513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs) are self-renewing, multipotent cells, and remain in our brains throughout life. They could be activated by brain damage and involved in the central nervous system (CNS) repair and motor functional recovery. Previous research demonstrated that miR-221 could regulate proliferation, differentiation, and survival. However, the effect of miR-221 on NSCs remains unknown. In this study, we showed that overexpression of miR-221 inhibited the expression of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) protein and increased the phosphorylation level of protein kinase B (AKT). More importantly, an AKT-specific inhibitor abolished the effect of miR-221 on the phosphorylation level of AKT. 5-Bromo-2-deoxyUridine (BrdU) incorporation assay and Cyclin D1 expression showed that miR-221 overexpression further promoted the NSCs proliferation. However, knocking down miR-221 inhibited cell proliferation. The AKT-specific inhibitor also blocked the proliferative efficiency of miR-221. These results demonstrated that miR-221 overexpression promoted the proliferation of cultured rat NSCs, for which the PTEN/AKT pathway activation was one possible mechanism. Our research may provide a novel investigating strategy to improve stem cell treatment for CNS diseases.
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25
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Zhou D, Fan J, Liu Z, Tang R, Wang X, Bo H, Zhu F, Zhao X, Huang Z, Xing L, Tao K, Zhang H, Nie H, Zhang H, Zhu W, He Z, Fan L. TCF3 Regulates the Proliferation and Apoptosis of Human Spermatogonial Stem Cells by Targeting PODXL. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:695545. [PMID: 34422820 PMCID: PMC8377737 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.695545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the initial cells for the spermatogenesis. Although much progress has been made on uncovering a number of modulators for the SSC fate decisions in rodents, the genes mediating human SSCs remain largely unclear. Here we report, for the first time, that TCF3, a member of the basic helix-loop-helix family of transcriptional modulator proteins, can stimulate proliferation and suppress the apoptosis of human SSCs through targeting podocalyxin-like protein (PODXL). TCF3 was expressed primarily in GFRA1-positive spermatogonia, and EGF (epidermal growth factor) elevated TCF3 expression level. Notably, TCF3 enhanced the growth and DNA synthesis of human SSCs, whereas it repressed the apoptosis of human SSCs. RNA sequencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays revealed that TCF3 protein regulated the transcription of several genes, including WNT2B, TGFB3, CCN4, MEGF6, and PODXL, while PODXL silencing compromised the stem cell activity of SSCs. Moreover, the level of TCF3 protein was remarkably lower in patients with spermatogenesis failure when compared to individuals with obstructive azoospermia with normal spermatogenesis. Collectively, these results implicate that TCF3 modulates human SSC proliferation and apoptosis through PODXL. This study is of great significance since it would provide a novel molecular mechanism underlying the fate determinations of human SSCs and it could offer new targets for gene therapy of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dai Zhou
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China.,College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China.,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jingyu Fan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Zhizhong Liu
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Urology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Ruiling Tang
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Xingming Wang
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Hao Bo
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Fang Zhu
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Xueheng Zhao
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Zenghui Huang
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Liu Xing
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Ke Tao
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China.,The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Han Zhang
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Hongchuan Nie
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Wenbing Zhu
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Zuping He
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Liqing Fan
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China.,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
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26
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Zhang Y, Zhang W, Hu C, Wang Y, Wang M, Zuo Q, Elsayed AK, Li Y, Li B. miR-302d Competitively Binding with the lncRNA-341 Targets TLE4 in the Process of SSC Generation. Stem Cells Int 2021; 2021:5546936. [PMID: 34211555 PMCID: PMC8205581 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5546936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are essential factors in the reproductive process of poultry. Here, we found miR-302d is a potential differentiation and negative factor of chicken embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into spermatogonia stem cells (SSCs). The competition mechanism was carried out for the preliminary exploration to determine the relationship among miR-302d, lncRNA-341(interacting with miR-302d), and target gene TLE4. The results showed that lncRNA-341 can competitively bind to miR-302d to decrease the targeted binding of miR-302d and TLE4 which promotes the differentiation of chicken SSCs. Moreover, it is suggested that miR-302d may participate in the Wnt signaling pathway through TLE4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yani Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenhui Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
| | - Cai Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
| | - Yingjie Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
| | - Man Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
| | - Qisheng Zuo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
| | - Ahmed Kamel Elsayed
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, 41522 Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Yi Li
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou, 325035 Zhejiang, China
| | - Bichun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu, China
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27
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Vashisht A, Gahlay GK. Using miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers for male infertility: opportunities and challenges. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:199-214. [PMID: 32084276 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The non-coding genome has been extensively studied for its role in human development and diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs, which can regulate the expression of hundreds of genes at the post-transcriptional level. Therefore, any defects in miRNA biogenesis or processing can affect the genes and have been linked to several diseases. Male infertility is a clinical disorder with a significant number of cases being idiopathic. Problems in spermatogenesis and epididymal maturation, testicular development, sperm maturation or migration contribute to male infertility, and many of these idiopathic cases are related to issues with the miRNAs which tightly regulate these processes. This review summarizes the recent research on various such miRNAs and puts together the candidate miRNAs that may be used as biomarkers for diagnosis. The development of strategies for male infertility treatment using anti-miRs or miRNA mimics is also discussed. Although promising, the development of miRNA diagnostics and therapeutics is challenging, and ways to overcome some of these challenges are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Vashisht
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab 143005 India
| | - G K Gahlay
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab 143005 India
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28
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Khanlari P, Khanehzad M, Khosravizadeh Z, Sobhani A, Barakzai S, Kazemzadeh S, Hedayatpour A. Effect of miR-30a-5p on Apoptosis, Colonization, and Oxidative Stress Variables in Frozen-Thawed Neonatal Mice Spermatogonial Stem Cells. Biopreserv Biobank 2021; 19:258-268. [PMID: 33913738 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2020.0121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) is a useful method for fertility preservation in preadolescent children suffering from cancer. However, SSCs may become damaged during cryopreservation due to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). For this reason, various antioxidant agents have been used to protect SSCs from cryopreservation-induced damages. Recently, it has been reported that miR-30a-5p has antiapoptotic and antioxidant activity. The aim of this study was to assess the antiapoptotic and antioxidant effects of miR-30a-5p mimics in frozen-thawed SSCs. To this end, SSCs were isolated from male BALB/C mice (3-6 days old) and cultivated for 14 days. After the detection of optimum concentration, a miR-30a-5p mimic or miR-30a-5p inhibitor with Lipofectamine was transfected into SSCs and, finally, the cell groups were frozen for 1 week. After thawing, different properties, including cell viability (using MTT), colonization of SSCs (number and diameter of colonies), ROS generation (using DCFH-DA assay), levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and gene expression of Bcl-2 and BAXBax (using quantitative real-time PCR), were investigated. The transfection of SSCs with miR-30a-5p mimics before the freezing-thawing process significantly increased the viability, number, and diameter of SSCs colonies. Also, the miR-30a-5p mimic decreased the levels of ROS production and MDA, but it increased the SOD levels. Moreover, the miR-30a-5p mimic decreased BAX and increased Bcl-2 expression in frozen-thawed SSCs. The transfection of SSCs with the miR-30a-5p mimic can increase cell viability and antioxidant defense, and it can decrease apoptosis during the freezing-thawing process. If SSC is able to produce spermatozoa after the transfection of miR-30a-5p and the freezing-thawing process, it can be suggested as a promising strategy for the cryopreservation of SSCs in prepubertal boys suffering from cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parastoo Khanlari
- Department of Anatomy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Khanehzad
- Department of Anatomy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Aligholi Sobhani
- Department of Anatomy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shogoofa Barakzai
- Department of Anatomy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Azim Hedayatpour
- Department of Anatomy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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29
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Gewiss RL, Shelden EA, Griswold MD. STRA8 induces transcriptional changes in germ cells during spermatogonial development. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:128-140. [PMID: 33400349 PMCID: PMC7920925 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial development is a key process during spermatogenesis to prepare germ cells to enter meiosis. While the initial point of spermatogonial differentiation is well‐characterized, the development of spermatogonia from the onset of differentiation to the point of meiotic entry has not been well defined. Further, STRA8 is highly induced at the onset of spermatogonial development but its function in spermatogonia has not been defined. To better understand how STRA8 impacts spermatogonia, we performed RNA‐sequencing in both wild‐type and STRA8 knockout mice at multiple timepoints during retinoic acid (RA)‐stimulated spermatogonial development. As expected, in spermatogonia from wild‐type mice we found that steady‐state levels of many transcripts that define undifferentiated progenitor cells were decreased while transcripts that define the differentiating spermatogonia were increased as a result of the actions of RA. However, the spermatogonia from STRA8 knockout mice displayed a muted RA response such that there were more transcripts typical of undifferentiated cells and fewer transcripts typical of differentiating cells following RA action. While spermatogonia from STRA8 knockout mice can ultimately form spermatocytes that fail to complete meiosis, it appears that the defect likely begins as a result of altered messenger RNA levels during spermatogonial differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Gewiss
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.,Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
| | - Eric A Shelden
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.,Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
| | - Michael D Griswold
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.,Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
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30
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Neto FTL, Flannigan R, Goldstein M. Regulation of Human Spermatogenesis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:255-286. [PMID: 34453741 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human spermatogenesis (HS) is an intricate network of sequential processes responsible for the production of the male gamete, the spermatozoon. These processes take place in the seminiferous tubules (ST) of the testis, which are small tubular structures considered the functional units of the testes. Each human testicle contains approximately 600-1200 STs [1], and are capable of producing up to 275 million spermatozoa per day [2].
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan Flannigan
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Marc Goldstein
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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31
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Luo H, Peng F, Weng B, Tang X, Chen Y, Yang A, Chen B, Ran M. miR-222 Suppresses Immature Porcine Sertoli Cell Growth by Targeting the GRB10 Gene Through Inactivating the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway. Front Genet 2020; 11:581593. [PMID: 33329720 PMCID: PMC7673446 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.581593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are central and essential coordinators of spermatogenesis. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that miRNAs participate in the regulation of Sertoli cell growth. However, the functions and the regulatory mechanisms of miRNAs in Sertoli cells of domestic animals remain largely unknown. Here we report that miR-222 overexpression repressed cell cycle progression and proliferation and promoted the apoptosis of immature porcine Sertoli cells, whereas miR-222 inhibition resulted in the opposite result. miR-222 directly targeted the 3′-UTR of the GRB10 gene and inhibited its mRNA abundance. An siRNA-induced GRB10 knockdown showed similar effects as did miR-222 overexpression on cell proliferation and apoptosis and further attenuated the role of miR-222 inhibition. Furthermore, both miR-222 overexpression and GRB10 inhibition repressed the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT, the key elements of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, whereas GRB10 inhibition offsets the effects of the miR-222 knockdown. Overall, we concluded that miR-222 suppresses immature porcine Sertoli cell growth by targeting the GRB10 gene through inactivation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. This study provides novel insights into the epigenetic regulation of porcine spermatogenesis by determining the fate of Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Luo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Fuzhi Peng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Bo Weng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiangwei Tang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Yao Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Anqi Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Bin Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Maoliang Ran
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
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32
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Zhou F, Chen W, Cui Y, Liu B, Yuan Q, Li Z, He Z. miRNA-122-5p stimulates the proliferation and DNA synthesis and inhibits the early apoptosis of human spermatogonial stem cells by targeting CBL and competing with lncRNA CASC7. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:25528-25546. [PMID: 33231565 PMCID: PMC7803487 DOI: 10.18632/aging.104158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulators of human spermatogonia stem cells (SSCs) remain largely unknown. We found that miRNA-122-5p was upregulated in human spermatogonia from obstructive azoospermia (OA) patients compared with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). MiRNA-122-5p stimulated the proliferation and DNA synthesis of human SSCs, whereas it inhibited the early apoptosis of human SSCs. CBL was predicted and identified as a direct target of miRNA-122-5p in human SSCs. CBL silencing led to an enhancement of cell proliferation and DNA synthesis and neutralized the effect of miRNA-122-5p inhibitor on the DNA synthesis of human SSCs. The decrease in the early apoptosis of human SSCs was observed after CBL knockdown. By comparing the profiles of lncRNAs between OA and NOA spermatogonia, CASC7 was significantly deficient in OA spermatogonia, and it had a direct association with miRNA-122-5p. LncRNA CASC7 competed with miRNA-122-5p, and it suppressed the inhibition of CBL. Collectively, these results implicate that miRNA-122-5p enhances the proliferation and DNA synthesis and inhibits the early apoptosis of human SSCs by targeting CBL and competing with lncRNA CASC7. Therefore, this study provides novel insights into epigenetic regulation of fate determinations of human SSCs, and it offers new targets for gene therapy of male infertility that is associated with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Department of Plastic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Yinghong Cui
- Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Bang Liu
- Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Qingqing Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Department of Plastic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zuping He
- Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China.,The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
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Regulatory functions of gga-miR-218 in spermatogonial stem cells meiosis by targeting Stra8. Mech Dev 2020; 164:103636. [PMID: 32798699 DOI: 10.1016/j.mod.2020.103636] [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: 02/15/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs play a crucial role in sperm formation, but its specific function remains unknown. Here, we found that gga-miR-218 regulates chicken sperm formation through in/ex vivo experiments. We constructed over-expression/interference carrier to overexpress and inhibit gga-miR-218 in chicken spermatogonial stem cells, separately, the detection of haploid and QRT-PCR of meiosis related genes revealed that gga-miR-218 inhibits meiosis. After injection of miR-218 in vivo, semen concentration and HE (Hematoxylin and Eosin staining) revealed that gga-miR-218 inhibits meiosis. Meanwhile, we discovered that gga-miR-218 could target Stra8 by prediction software which can inhibit the wild-type fluorescence activity by co-transfection of gga-miR-218 with the Stra8 3' untranslated regions fluorescent reporter vector (wild-type/mutant), QRT-PCR and Western blot showed that gga-miR-218 inhibits the expression level of Stra8 by targeting its 3' untranslated regions directly. Finally, we suggest that gga-miR-218 could target to srta8 directly and inhibit spermatogenesis.
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34
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Li B, He X, Zhao Y, Bai D, Li D, Zhou Z, Manglai D. Analysis of the miRNA transcriptome during testicular development and spermatogenesis of the Mongolian horse. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 32:582-593. [PMID: 32209208 DOI: 10.1071/rd19133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) are essential for testicular development and spermatogenesis. In order to further characterise these physiological processes, three immature and three mature testes of the Mongolian horse were collected and six libraries were established. Using small RNA sequencing technology, 531 mature miRNAs were identified, including 46 novel miRNAs without previously ascribed functions. Among the 531 miRNAs, 421 were expressed in both immature and mature libraries, 65 miRNAs were found solely in immature testis libraries and 45 miRNAs were found solely in mature testis libraries. Furthermore, among the miRNAs that were identified in both immature and mature libraries, 107 were significantly differentially expressed (corrected P value (padj)<0.05). Among the miRNAs that were only expressed in immature testes, two miRNAs were differentially expressed, whereas among the miRNAs that were only expressed in mature testes, nine miRNAs were differentially expressed. Comprehensive analysis of miRNA and mRNA expression profiles predicted 107 miRNA-mRNA interaction sites. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of the predicted target genes suggested roles of the differentially expressed miRNAs in testicular development and spermatogenesis. These findings identify miRNAs as key factors in the development of the testes and spermatogenesis in the Mongolian horse, which may also help us to understand the mechanisms of fertility in related mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei Li
- College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Centre, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Zhaowuda RD.306, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, PR China
| | - Xiaolong He
- Inner Mongolia Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Sciences, Zhaojun RD.22, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, PR China
| | - Yiping Zhao
- College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Centre, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Zhaowuda RD.306, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, PR China
| | - Dongyi Bai
- College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Centre, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Zhaowuda RD.306, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, PR China
| | - Dandan Li
- College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Centre, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Zhaowuda RD.306, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, PR China
| | - Zhiyu Zhou
- College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Centre, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Zhaowuda RD.306, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, PR China
| | - Dugarjaviin Manglai
- College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Centre, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Zhaowuda RD.306, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, PR China; and Corresponding author.
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35
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Functional omics analyses reveal only minor effects of microRNAs on human somatic stem cell differentiation. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3284. [PMID: 32094412 PMCID: PMC7040006 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60065-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The contribution of microRNA-mediated posttranscriptional regulation on the final proteome in differentiating cells remains elusive. Here, we evaluated the impact of microRNAs (miRNAs) on the proteome of human umbilical cord blood-derived unrestricted somatic stem cells (USSC) during retinoic acid (RA) differentiation by a systemic approach using next generation sequencing analysing mRNA and miRNA expression and quantitative mass spectrometry-based proteome analyses. Interestingly, regulation of mRNAs and their dedicated proteins highly correlated during RA-incubation. Additionally, RA-induced USSC demonstrated a clear separation from native USSC thereby shifting from a proliferating to a metabolic phenotype. Bioinformatic integration of up- and downregulated miRNAs and proteins initially implied a strong impact of the miRNome on the XXL-USSC proteome. However, quantitative proteome analysis of the miRNA contribution on the final proteome after ectopic overexpression of downregulated miR-27a-5p and miR-221-5p or inhibition of upregulated miR-34a-5p, respectively, followed by RA-induction revealed only minor proportions of differentially abundant proteins. In addition, only small overlaps of these regulated proteins with inversely abundant proteins in non-transfected RA-treated USSC were observed. Hence, mRNA transcription rather than miRNA-mediated regulation is the driving force for protein regulation upon RA-incubation, strongly suggesting that miRNAs are fine-tuning regulators rather than active primary switches during RA-induction of USSC.
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36
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Xu C, Shah MA, Mipam T, Wu S, Yi C, Luo H, Yuan M, Chai Z, Zhao W, Cai X. Bovid microRNAs involved in the process of spermatogonia differentiation into spermatocytes. Int J Biol Sci 2020; 16:239-250. [PMID: 31929752 PMCID: PMC6949159 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.38232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The male infertility of cattleyak resulted from spermatogenic arrest has greatly restricted the effective utilization of the heterosis from crossbreeding of cattle and yak. Based on our previous studies, the significant divergences of the transcriptomic and proteomic sequencing between yak and cattleyak prompt us to investigate the critical roles of microRNAs in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression during spermatogenesis. TUNEL-POD analysis presented sharply decreased spermatogenic cell types and the increased apoptotic spermatogonia in cattleyak. The STA-PUT velocity sedimentation was employed to obtain spermatogonia and spermatocytes from cattle, yak and cattleyak and these spermatogenic cells were verified by the morphological and phenotypic identification. MicroRNA microarray showed that 27 differentially expressed miRNAs were simultaneously identified both in cattleyak vs cattle and in cattleyak vs yak comparisons. Further analysis revealed that the down-regulation of bta-let-7 families, bta-miR-125 and bta-miR-23a might impair the RA-induced differentiation of spermatogonia. Target gene analysis for differentially expressed miRNAs revealed that miRNAs targeted major players involved in vesicle-mediated transport, regulation of protein kinase activity and Pathways in cancer. In addition, spermatogonia transfection analysis revealed that the down-regulation of bta-miR-449a in the cattleyak might block the transition of male germ cells from the mitotic cycle to the meiotic program. The present study provided valuable information for future elucidating the regulatory roles of miRNAs involved in spermatogenic arrest of cattleyak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanfei Xu
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Sichuan Province and Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.,School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan, China
| | - Mujahid Ali Shah
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan, China
| | - TserangDonko Mipam
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Sichuan Province and Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Shixin Wu
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan, China
| | - Chuanping Yi
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan, China
| | - Hui Luo
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan, China
| | - Meng Yuan
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhixin Chai
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Sichuan Province and Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Wangsheng Zhao
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan, China
| | - Xin Cai
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Sichuan Province and Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.,School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan, China
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37
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Fang N, Cao C, Wen Y, Wang X, Yuan S, Huang X. MicroRNA profile comparison of testicular tissues derived from successful and unsuccessful microdissection testicular sperm extraction retrieval in non-obstructive azoospermia patients. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:671-682. [PMID: 30423284 DOI: 10.1071/rd17423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is the most severe clinical diagnosis in cases of male infertility. Although in some cases of NOA spermatozoa can be retrieved by microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) to fertilise eggs through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), there remains a lack of potential biomarkers for non-invasive diagnosis before micro-TESE surgery. To determine predictive biomarkers for successful sperm retrieval before micro-TESE, the aim of this study was to explore whether microRNAs (miRNAs) were differentially expressed in testicular tissues in NOA patients in whom sperm retrieval had been successful (SSR) versus those in whom it had been unsuccessful (USR) using next-generation small RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq). In all, 180 miRNAs were identified with significantly altered expression levels between SSR and USR testicular tissues. Of these, the expression of 13 miRNAs was upregulated and that of 167 miRNAs was downregulated in the USR compared with SSR group. Unexpectedly, 86 testicular miRNAs were found to be completely absent in the USR group, but showed high expression in the SSR group, suggesting that these miRNAs may serve as biomarkers for micro-TESE and may also play an essential role in spermatogenesis. Furthermore, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses indicated that the miRNAs that differed significantly between the USR and SSR groups were involved in cell apoptosis, proliferation and differentiation, which are of considerable importance during spermatogenesis. In summary, this study identified a panel of miRNAs highly expressed in testicular tissues of SSR but not USR NOA patients, providing new insights into specific miRNAs that may play important roles in epigenetic regulation during spermatogenesis. The findings provide a basis for further elucidation of the regulatory role of miRNAs in spermatogenesis and clues to identifying useful biomarkers to predict residual spermatogenic loci in NOA patients during treatment with assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Fang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Congcong Cao
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Yujiao Wen
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Xunbin Huang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
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38
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Gholikhani-Darbroud R. MicroRNA and retinoic acid. Clin Chim Acta 2019; 502:15-24. [PMID: 31812758 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2019.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Retinoic acid is a metabolite of vitamin A that is necessary to maintain health in human and most of the other vertebrates. MicroRNAs (miR or miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA particles that diminish mRNA translation of various genes and so can regulate critical cell processes including cell death, proliferation, development, etc. The aim of this review is to study interrelations between retinoic acid with miRNAs. METHODS We reviewed and summarized all published articles in PubMed, Europe PMC, and Embase databases with any relationship between retinoic acid and miRNAs from Jun 2003 to Dec 2018 that includes 126 articles. RESULTS Results showed direct and indirect relationships between retinoic acid and miRNAs in various levels including effects of retinoic acid on expression of various miRNAs and miRNA-biogenesis enzymes, and effect of miRNAs on metabolism of retinoic acid. DISCUTION AND CONCLUSION This review indicates that retinoic acid has inter-correlations with various miRNA members and their metabolism in health and disease may require implications of the other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Gholikhani-Darbroud
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia 5714783734, Iran.
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39
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Mahlab-Aviv S, Linial N, Linial M. A cell-based probabilistic approach unveils the concerted action of miRNAs. PLoS Comput Biol 2019; 15:e1007204. [PMID: 31790387 PMCID: PMC6922470 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1007204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mature microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate most human genes through direct base-pairing with mRNAs. We investigate the underlying principles of miRNA regulation in living cells. To this end, we overexpressed miRNAs in different cell types and measured the mRNA decay rate under a paradigm of a transcriptional arrest. Based on an exhaustive matrix of mRNA-miRNA binding probabilities, and parameters extracted from our experiments, we developed a computational framework that captures the cooperative action of miRNAs in living cells. The framework, called COMICS, simulates the stochastic binding events between miRNAs and mRNAs in cells. The input of COMICS is cell-specific profiles of mRNAs and miRNAs, and the outcome is the retention level of each mRNA at the end of 100,000 iterations. The results of COMICS from thousands of miRNA manipulations reveal gene sets that exhibit coordinated behavior with respect to all miRNAs (total of 248 families). We identified a small set of genes that are highly responsive to changes in the expression of almost any of the miRNAs. In contrast, about 20% of the tested genes remain insensitive to a broad range of miRNA manipulations. The set of insensitive genes is strongly enriched with genes that belong to the translation machinery. These trends are shared by different cell types. We conclude that the stochastic nature of miRNAs reveals unexpected robustness of gene expression in living cells. By applying a systematic probabilistic approach some key design principles of cell states are revealed, emphasizing in particular, the immunity of the translational machinery vis-a-vis miRNA manipulations across cell types. We propose COMICS as a valuable platform for assessing the outcome of miRNA regulation of cells in health and disease. Alteration in miRNA expression occurs throughout cell differentiation, inflammation, viral infection, tumorigenesis, and other pathologies. Notwithstanding a rich body of experimental data intended to assess the outcome of miRNA alterations in cells, the underlying design principles remain obscure and fragmented. In this study, we develop a quantitative stochastic model that simulates the mRNA steady-state in view of alteration in miRNAs’ abundance. We systematically analyzed the behavior of miRNA-mRNA regulation and confirm that the stochastic nature of miRNA regulation reveals unexpected robustness of cell behavior across cell types. Specifically, we expose the immunity of the translational machinery towards miRNA regulation. The developed platform, called COMICS compares the results of miRNA regulation across various cell types. Based on stochastic and probabilistic considerations, we provide a dynamic and flexible framework that quantifies the competition of miRNAs within cells in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelly Mahlab-Aviv
- The Rachel and Selim Benin School of Computer Science and Engineering, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nathan Linial
- The Rachel and Selim Benin School of Computer Science and Engineering, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Michal Linial
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- * E-mail:
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40
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Gholami D, Salman Yazdi R, Jami MS, Ghasemi S, Sadighi Gilani MA, Sadeghinia S, Teimori H. The expression of Cysteine-Rich Secretory Protein 2 (CRISP2) and miR-582-5p in seminal plasma fluid and spermatozoa of infertile men. Gene 2019; 730:144261. [PMID: 31778754 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2019.144261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cysteine-Rich Secretory Protein 2 (CRISP2) plays an important role in the morphology and motion of male ejaculated spermatozoa. The association of its expression with some miRNAs is also well known. The aim of this study was to determine the expression of CRISP2 and mir-582 in the seminal plasma fluid and spermatozoa of three groups of infertile men and the possible association of their expressions. In this experimental study, the expression of CRISP2 in seminal plasma fluid and spermatozoa of 17 men with asthenozoospermia, 15 men with teratozoospermia, 17 men with teratoasthenozoospermia, and 18 infertile individuals with normozoospermia were measured using western blotting. Then by using bioinformatics studies, miR-582-5p was nominated as a CRISP2-associated miRNA, and its expression was evaluated by means of Real-Time PCR. Comparison of expression of CRISP2 and miRNA-582 in the studied groups was analyzed by t-test and Mann-Whitney U test. The expression of CRISP2 showed a significant reduction in the spermatozoa and seminal plasma fluid of all three groups, (p < 0.05). MiR-582-5p expression significantly increased in teratozoospermia patients (<0.05), and significantly decreased in teratoasthenozoospermia patients (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, changes in the expression of miR-582-5p in teratoasthenozoospermia individuals was associated with a decrease in the expression of CRISP2, which could represent the potential role of miR-582-5p in regulation of CRISP2 expression in teratoasthenozoospermia individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delnya Gholami
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Reza Salman Yazdi
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Saeid Jami
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran; Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sorayya Ghasemi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Ali Sadighi Gilani
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shaghayegh Sadeghinia
- College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences School of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Hossien Teimori
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
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41
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La HM, Hobbs RM. Mechanisms regulating mammalian spermatogenesis and fertility recovery following germ cell depletion. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:4071-4102. [PMID: 31254043 PMCID: PMC11105665 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03201-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a highly complex multi-step process sustained by a population of mitotic germ cells with self-renewal potential known as spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). The maintenance and regulation of SSC function are strictly dependent on a supportive niche that is composed of multiple cell types. A detailed appreciation of the molecular mechanisms underpinning SSC activity and fate is of fundamental importance for spermatogenesis and male fertility. However, different models of SSC identity and spermatogonial hierarchy have been proposed and recent studies indicate that cell populations supporting steady-state germline maintenance and regeneration following damage are distinct. Importantly, dynamic changes in niche properties may underlie the fate plasticity of spermatogonia evident during testis regeneration. While formation of spermatogenic colonies in germ-cell-depleted testis upon transplantation is a standard assay for SSCs, differentiation-primed spermatogonial fractions have transplantation potential and this assay provides readout of regenerative rather than steady-state stem cell capacity. The characterisation of spermatogonial populations with regenerative capacity is essential for the development of clinical applications aimed at restoring fertility in individuals following germline depletion by genotoxic treatments. This review will discuss regulatory mechanisms of SSCs in homeostatic and regenerative testis and the conservation of these mechanisms between rodent models and man.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hue M La
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Robin M Hobbs
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.
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42
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Ren L, Zhang J, Wang J, Wei J, Liu J, Li X, Zhu Y, Li Y, Guo C, Duan J, Sun Z, Zhou X. Silica nanoparticles induce spermatocyte cell apoptosis through microRNA-2861 targeting death receptor pathway. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 228:709-720. [PMID: 31071558 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.04.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) are found in the environmental particulate matter and have been proved to pose an adverse effect on fertility. However, the relationship between miRNA and apoptosis induced by SiNPs in spermatogenesis and its underlying mechanism remains confusing. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the toxic effects of SiNPs on spermatogenic cells mediated through miRNAs. Spermatocyte cells were divided into 0 μg/mL and 5 μg/mL SiNPs groups, and the cells were collected and analyzed after passaging for 1, 10, 20, and 30 generations. miRNA profile and mRNA profile of spermatocyte cells were measured after exposure to SiNPs for 30 generations. Further, mimics and inhibitors of miRNA were used to verify the relationship between miRNA and their predicted target genes in the 30th-generation cells. The results showed that the degree of cell apoptosis in the SiNPs group significantly increased in the 30th generation. After exposure to SiNPs for 30 generations, the expression of 15 miRNAs was altered, including 5 upregulated miRNAs and 10 downregulated miRNAs. Of the 15 miRNAs, miR-138 and miR-2861 were related to the death receptor pathway. The miR-2861 mimic could target to regulate the mRNA expression of fas/fasl/ripk1 and increase the protein expression of Fas/FasL/RIPK1/FADD/caspase-8/caspase-3 of spermatogenic cells in the 30th generation, while the miR-138 inhibitor could not. In conclusion, SiNPs could cause apoptosis of spermatocyte cells by inhibiting the expression of miRNA-2861, thereby resulting in the upregulation of mRNA expression of fas/fasl/ripk1 and activating the death receptor pathway of spermatocyte cells. miRNA-2861 could be considered a biomarker of the toxic effect of SiNPs on spermatocyte cells. The main finding: Silica nanoparticles induce apoptosis in spermatocyte cells through microRNA-2861 inhibition, thereby upregulating mRNA expression of fas/fasl/ripk1 and activating the death receptor pathway of spermatocyte cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Ren
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Ji Wang
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Jialiu Wei
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Jianhui Liu
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xiangyang Li
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Yupeng Zhu
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Yanbo Li
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Caixia Guo
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Junchao Duan
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Zhiwei Sun
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xianqing Zhou
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
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Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA), a metabolite of retinol (vitamin A), functions as a ligand for nuclear RA receptors (RARs) that regulate development of chordate animals. RA-RARs can activate or repress transcription of key developmental genes. Genetic studies in mouse and zebrafish embryos that are deficient in RA-generating enzymes or RARs have been instrumental in identifying RA functions, revealing that RA signaling regulates development of many organs and tissues, including the body axis, spinal cord, forelimbs, heart, eye and reproductive tract. An understanding of the normal functions of RA signaling during development will guide efforts for use of RA as a therapeutic agent to improve human health. Here, we provide an overview of RA signaling and highlight its key functions during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norbert B Ghyselinck
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Gregg Duester
- Development, Aging, and Regeneration Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 10901 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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44
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Gao H, Wen H, Cao C, Dong D, Yang C, Xie S, Zhang J, Huang X, Huang X, Yuan S, Dong W. Overexpression of MicroRNA-10a in Germ Cells Causes Male Infertility by Targeting Rad51 in Mouse and Human. Front Physiol 2019; 10:765. [PMID: 31275170 PMCID: PMC6591449 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complicated process including spermatogonial stem cells self-renewal and differentiates into mature spermatozoa. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) as a class of small non-coding RNAs play a crucial role during the process of spermatogenesis. However, the function of a plenty of miRNAs on spermatogenesis and the potential mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we show that genetically conditional overexpressed miR-10a in germ cells caused complete male sterility, characterized by meiotic arrested in germ cells. Analysis of miR-10a overexpression mouse testes reveals that failure of double strand break (DSB) repairs and aberrant spermatogonial differentiation. Furthermore, we identified Rad51 as a key target of miR-10a in germ cell by bioinformatics prediction and luciferase assay, which may be responsible for the infertility of the miR-10a overexpressed mice and germ cell arrested patients. Our data show that miR-10a dependent genetic regulation of meiotic process is crucial for male germ cell development and spermatogenesis in both mouse and human. These findings facilitate our understanding of the roles of miRNA-10a in spermatogenesis and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huihui Gao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Hui Wen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Congcong Cao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Daqian Dong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Chenhao Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Shengsong Xie
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction, Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xunbin Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Xingxu Huang
- School of Life Sciences and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wuzi Dong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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Mobasheri MB, Babatunde KA. Testicular miRNAs in relation to spermatogenesis, spermatogonial stem cells and cancer/testis genes. SCIENTIFIC AFRICAN 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sciaf.2019.e00067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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46
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Zhu W, Yang M, Shang J, Xu Y, Wang Y, Tao Q, Zhang L, Ding Y, Chen Y, Zhao D, Wang C, Chu M, Yin Z, Zhang X. MiR-222 inhibits apoptosis in porcine follicular granulosa cells by targeting the THBS1 gene. Anim Sci J 2019; 90:719-727. [PMID: 30983045 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Apoptosis of granulosa cells affects follicular atresia and reproduction and is regulated by miRNAs and the expression of certain genes. For the present study, we investigated the regulatory relationship between microRNA-222 (miR-222) and THBS1 in porcine follicular granulosa cells (pGCs) and its effects on apoptosis to provide empirical data for developing methods to improve pig fecundity. Results revealed that miR-222 promotes the proliferation of pGCs. MiRNA mimics and luciferase reporter assays revealed that miR-222 functions as an anti-apoptotic factor in pGCs. MiR-222 mimics in pGCs result in the upregulation of the anti-apoptotic BCL-2 gene, down-regulation of the proapoptotic caspase-3 gene, and inhibition of apoptosis. MiR-222 inhibitors reduced BCL-2 and had no significant effect on caspase-3. MiR-222 mimics promoted estrogen levels. Inhibition of THBS1 inhibited pGC apoptosis. Transfection of THBS1-siRNA reduced the proapoptotic BAX gene. MiR-222 can directly target the 3'-untranslated region of the THBS1 gene. MiR-222 mimics suppressed THBS1 mRNA and proteins, but these were upregulated by the miR-222 inhibitor. Transfection of THBS1-siRNA resulted in the inhibition of the miR-222 inhibitor, which suggests that miR-222 inhibits pGC apoptosis by targeting THBS1. These findings suggest that miR-222 and THBS1 play important roles in follicular atresia, ovarian development, and female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihua Zhu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Bio-breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Min Yang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Bio-breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Jinnan Shang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Bio-breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yiliang Xu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Bio-breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanlang Wang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Bio-breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Qiangqiang Tao
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Bio-breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Bio-breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yueyun Ding
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Bio-breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yige Chen
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Bio-breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Dongdong Zhao
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Bio-breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Chonglong Wang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Farm Animal Genetic Resources and Germplasm Innovation of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zongjun Yin
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Bio-breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaodong Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Bio-breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
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47
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Aliberti P, Sethi R, Belgorosky A, Chandran UR, Plant TM, Walker WH. Gonadotrophin-mediated miRNA expression in testis at onset of puberty in rhesus monkey: predictions on regulation of thyroid hormone activity and DLK1-DIO3 locus. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 25:124-136. [PMID: 30590698 PMCID: PMC6396851 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gay054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms responsible for the initiation of primate spermatogenesis remain poorly characterized. Previously, 48 h stimulation of the testes of three juvenile rhesus monkeys with pulsatile LH and FSH resulted in down-regulation of a cohort of genes recognized to favor spermatogonia stem cell renewal. This change in genetic landscape occurred in concert with amplification of Sertoli cell proliferation and the commitment of undifferentiated spermatogonia to differentiate. In this report, the non-protein coding small RNA transcriptomes of the same testes were characterized using RNA sequencing: 537 mature micro-RNAs (miRNAs), 322 small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) and 49 small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) were identified. Pathway analysis of the 20 most highly expressed miRNAs suggested that these transcripts contribute to limiting the proliferation of the primate Sertoli cell during juvenile development. Gonadotrophin treatment resulted in differential expression of 35 miRNAs, 12 snoRNAs and four snRNA transcripts. Ten differentially expressed miRNAs were derived from the imprinted delta-like homolog 1-iodothyronine deiodinase 3 (DLK1-DIO3) locus that is linked to stem cell fate decisions. Four gonadotrophin-regulated expressed miRNAs were predicted to trigger a local increase in thyroid hormone activity within the juvenile testis. The latter finding leads us to predict that, in primates, a gonadotrophin-induced selective increase in testicular thyroid hormone activity, together with the established increase in androgen levels, at the onset of puberty is necessary for the normal timing of Sertoli cell maturation, and therefore initiation of spermatogenesis. Further examination of this hypothesis requires that peripubertal changes in thyroid hormone activity of the testis of a representative higher primate be determined empirically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Aliberti
- Endocrine Service, Hospital de Pediatría Garrahan, Combate de los Pozos 1881(C 1245 AAM) C.A.B.A., Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rahil Sethi
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, 5607 Baum Boulevard, Suite 500, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Alicia Belgorosky
- Endocrine Service, Hospital de Pediatría Garrahan, Combate de los Pozos 1881(C 1245 AAM) C.A.B.A., Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Uma R Chandran
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, 5607 Baum Boulevard, Suite 500, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Tony M Plant
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - William H Walker
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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48
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Khawar MB, Mehmood R, Roohi N. MicroRNAs: Recent insights towards their role in male infertility and reproductive cancers. Bosn J Basic Med Sci 2019; 19:31-42. [PMID: 30599090 DOI: 10.17305/bjbms.2018.3477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a tightly controlled, multi-step process in which mature spermatozoa are produced. Disruption of regulatory mechanisms in spermatogenesis can lead to male infertility, various diseases of male reproductive system, or even cancer. The spermatogenic impairment in infertile men can be associated with different etiologies, and the exact molecular mechanisms are yet to be determined. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a type of non-protein coding RNAs, about 22 nucleotides long, with an essential role in post-transcriptional regulation. miRNAs have been recognized as important regulators of various biological processes, including spermatogenesis. The aim of this review is to summarize the recent literature on the role of miRNAs in spermatogenesis, male infertility and reproductive cancers, and to evaluate their potential in diagnosis, prognosis and therapy of disease. Experimental evidence shows that aberrant expression of miRNAs affects spermatogenesis at multiple stages and in different cell types, most often resulting in infertility. In more severe cases, dysregulation of miRNAs leads to cancer. miRNAs have enormous potential to be used as diagnostic and prognostic markers as well as therapeutic targets in male infertility and reproductive system diseases. However, to exploit this potential fully, we need a better understanding of miRNA-mediated regulation of spermatogenesis, including the characterization of yet unidentified miRNAs and related regulatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Babar Khawar
- Molecular Physiology/Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan State Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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49
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A Novel Regulatory Axis, CHD1L-MicroRNA 486-Matrix Metalloproteinase 2, Controls Spermatogonial Stem Cell Properties. Mol Cell Biol 2019; 39:MCB.00357-18. [PMID: 30455250 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00357-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are unipotent germ cells that are at the foundation of spermatogenesis and male fertility. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms governing SSC stemness and growth properties remain elusive. We have recently identified chromodomain helicase/ATPase DNA binding protein 1-like (Chd1l) as a novel regulator for SSC survival and self-renewal, but how these functions are controlled by Chd1l remains to be resolved. Here, we applied high-throughput small RNA sequencing to uncover the microRNA (miRNA) expression profiles controlled by Chd1l and showed that the expression levels of 124 miRNA transcripts were differentially regulated by Chd1l in SSCs. KEGG pathway analysis shows that the miRNAs that are differentially expressed upon Chd1l repression are significantly enriched in the pathways associated with stem cell pluripotency and proliferation. As a proof of concept, we demonstrate that one of the most highly upregulated miRNAs, miR-486, controls SSC stemness gene expression and growth properties. The matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) gene has been identified as a novel miR-486 target gene in the context of SSC stemness gene regulation and growth properties. Data from cotransfection experiments showed that Chd1l, miR-486, and MMP2 work in concert in regulating SSC stemness gene expression and growth properties. Finally, our data also revealed that MMP2 regulates SSC stemness gene expression and growth properties through activating β-catenin signaling by cleaving N-cadherin and increasing β-catenin nuclear translocation. Our data demonstrate that Chd1l-miR-486-MMP2 is a novel regulatory axis governing SSC stemness gene expression and growth properties, offering a novel therapeutic opportunity for treating male infertility.
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50
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Identification of the X-linked germ cell specific miRNAs (XmiRs) and their functions. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0211739. [PMID: 30707741 PMCID: PMC6358104 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in multiple aspects of biology. Dicer, an RNase III endonuclease, is essential for the biogenesis of miRNAs, and the germ cell-specific Dicer1 knockout mouse shows severe defects in gametogenesis. How miRNAs regulate germ cell development is still not fully understood. In this study, we identified germ cell-specific miRNAs (miR-741-3p, miR-871-3p, miR-880-3p) by analyzing published RNA-seq data of mouse. These miRNA genes are contiguously located on the X chromosome near other miRNA genes. We named them X chromosome-linked miRNAs (XmiRs). To elucidate the functions of XmiRs, we generated knockout mice of these miRNA genes using the CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing system. Although no histological abnormalities were observed in testes of F0 mice in which each miRNA gene was disrupted, a deletion covering miR-871 and miR-880 or covering all XmiRs (ΔXmiRs) resulted in arrested spermatogenesis in meiosis in a few seminiferous tubules, indicating their redundant functions in spermatogenesis. Among candidate targets of XmiRs, we found increased expression of a gene encoding a WNT receptor, FZD4, in ΔXmiRs testis compared with that in wildtype testis. miR-871-3p and miR-880-3p repressed the expression of Fzd4 via the 3′-untranslated region of its mRNA. In addition, downstream genes of the WNT/β-catenin pathway were upregulated in ΔXmiRs testis. We also found that miR-871, miR-880, and Fzd4 were expressed in spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids, and overexpression of miR-871 and miR-880 in germ stem cells in culture repressed their increase in number and Fzd4 expression. Previous studies indicated that the WNT/β-catenin pathway enhances and represses proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonia, respectively, and our results consistently showed that stable β-catenin enhanced GSC number. In addition, stable β-catenin partially rescued reduced GSC number by overexpression of miR-871 and miR-880. The results together suggest that miR-871 and miR-880 cooperatively regulate the WNT/β-catenin pathway during testicular germ cell development.
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