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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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2
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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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3
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Xiong X, Min X, Yu H, Fei X, Zhu Y, Pan B, Xiong Y, Fu W, Li J. MicroRNA-34b-5p targets PPP1R11 to inhibit proliferation and promote apoptosis in cattleyak Sertoli cells by regulating specific signaling pathways. Theriogenology 2022; 194:46-57. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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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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5
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Gupta A, Vats A, Ghosal A, Mandal K, Sarkar R, Bhattacharya I, Das S, Pal R, Majumdar SS. Follicle-stimulating hormone-mediated decline in miR-92a-3p expression in pubertal mice Sertoli cells is crucial for germ cell differentiation and fertility. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:136. [PMID: 35181820 PMCID: PMC11072849 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04174-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells (Sc) are the sole target of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the testis and attain functional maturation post-birth to significantly augment germ cell (Gc) division and differentiation at puberty. Despite having an operational microRNA (miRNA) machinery, limited information is available on miRNA-mediated regulation of Sc maturation and male fertility. We have shown before that miR-92a-3p levels decline in pubertal rat Sc. In response to FSH treatment, the expressions of FSH Receptor, Claudin11 and Klf4 were found to be elevated in pubertal rat Sc coinciding with our finding of FSH-induced decline in miR-92a-3p levels. To investigate the association of miR-92a-3p and spermatogenesis, we generated transgenic mice where such pubertal decline of miR-92a-3p was prevented by its overexpression in pubertal Sc under proximal Rhox5 promoter, which is known to be activated specifically at puberty, in Sc. Our in vivo observations provided substantial evidence that FSH-induced decline in miR-92a-3p expression during Sc maturation acts as an essential prerequisite for the pubertal onset of spermatogenesis. Elevated expression of miR-92a-3p in post-pubertal testes results into functionally compromised Sc, leading to impairment of the blood-testis barrier formation and apoptosis of pre-meiotic Gc, ultimately culminating into infertility. Collectively, our data suggest that regulation of miR-92a-3p expression is crucial for Sc-mediated induction of active spermatogenesis at puberty and regulation of male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alka Gupta
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, JNU Complex, New Delhi, 110067, India
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, USA
| | - Amandeep Vats
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, JNU Complex, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Anindita Ghosal
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, JNU Complex, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Kamal Mandal
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, JNU Complex, New Delhi, 110067, India
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Rajesh Sarkar
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, JNU Complex, New Delhi, 110067, India
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, JNU Complex, New Delhi, 110067, India
- Dept. of Zoology, H. N. B. Garhwal University, Srinagar, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Sanjeev Das
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, JNU Complex, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Rahul Pal
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, JNU Complex, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Subeer S Majumdar
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, JNU Complex, New Delhi, 110067, India.
- Genes and Protein Engineering Laboratory, National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India.
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6
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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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7
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Gupta A, Mandal K, Singh P, Sarkar R, Majumdar SS. Declining levels of miR-382-3p at puberty trigger the onset of spermatogenesis. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 26:192-207. [PMID: 34513304 PMCID: PMC8413679 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
A major change in the transcriptome of testicular Sertoli cells (Scs) at the onset of puberty enables them to induce robust spermatogenesis. Through comprehensive literature mining, we generated a list of genes crucial for Sc functioning and computationally predicted the microRNAs regulating them. Differential expression analysis of microRNAs in infant and pubertal rat Scs showed that miR-382-3p levels decline significantly in pubertal Scs. Interestingly, miR-382-3p was found to regulate genes like Ar and Wt1, which are crucial for functional competence of Scs. We generated a transgenic (Tg) mouse model in which pubertal decline of miR-382-3p was prevented by its overexpression in pubertal Scs. Elevated miR-382-3p restricted the functional maturation of Scs at puberty, leading to infertility. Prevention of decline in miR-382-3p expression in pubertal Scs was responsible for defective blood-testis barrier (BTB) formation, severe testicular defects, low epididymal sperm counts and loss of fertility in these mice. This provided substantial evidence that decline in levels of miR-382-3p at puberty is the essential trigger for onset of robust spermatogenesis at puberty. Hence, sustained high levels of miR-382-3p in pubertal Scs could be one of the underlying causes of idiopathic male infertility and should be considered for diagnosis and treatment of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alka Gupta
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Kamal Mandal
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Parminder Singh
- Metabolic Research Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
| | - Rajesh Sarkar
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Subeer S. Majumdar
- Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
- Genes and Protein Engineering Laboratory, National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
- Corresponding author: Subeer S. Majumdar, Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India.
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8
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Burgos M, Hurtado A, Jiménez R, Barrionuevo FJ. Non-Coding RNAs: lncRNAs, miRNAs, and piRNAs in Sexual Development. Sex Dev 2021; 15:335-350. [PMID: 34614501 DOI: 10.1159/000519237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a group of RNAs that do not encode functional proteins, including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), and short interfering RNAs (siRNAs). In the last 2 decades an effort has been made to uncover the role of ncRNAs during development and disease, and nowadays it is clear that these molecules have a regulatory function in many of the developmental and physiological processes where they have been studied. In this review, we provide an overview of the role of ncRNAs during gonad determination and development, focusing mainly on mammals, although we also provide information from other species, in particular when there is not much information on the function of particular types of ncRNAs during mammalian sexual development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Burgos
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Lab. 127, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Alicia Hurtado
- Epigenetics and Sex Development Group, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rafael Jiménez
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Lab. 127, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Francisco J Barrionuevo
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Lab. 127, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
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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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10
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Chen W, Cui Y, Ning M, Zhang H, Yin C, He Z. The mechanisms and functions of microRNAs in mediating the fate determinations of human spermatogonial stem cells and Sertoli cells. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 121:32-39. [PMID: 34034987 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Human spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and Sertoli cells might have the applications in reproduction and regenerative medicine. Abnormal spermatogenesis results in male infertility, which seriously affects human reproduction and health. Spermatogenesis depends on the epigenetic and genetic regulation of male germ cells and somatic cells. A number of microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified in human testicular tissues, and they are closely related to male fertility. Significantly, we and peers have recently demonstrated that numerous miRNAs are essential for regulating the self-renewal and apoptosis of human SSCs and Sertoli cells through controlling their mRNA and lncRNA targets. In this review, we critically discuss these findings regarding the important functions and mechanisms of miRNAs in mediating the fate determinations of human SSCs and Sertoli cells. Meanwhile, we illustrate the regulatory networks for miRNAs by forming the upstream and downstream regulators of mRNAs and lncRNAs in human SSCs, and we address that miRNAs regulate the decisions of Sertoli cells by targeting genes and via N6-methyladenosine (m6A). We also point out the future directions for further studies on this field. This review could offer an update on novel molecular targets for treating male infertility and new insights into epigenetic regulation of human spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Yinghong Cui
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Minqi Ning
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Haorui Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Chenjun Yin
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Zuping He
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China.
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11
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Luo H, Chen B, Weng B, Tang X, Chen Y, Yang A, Chu D, Zeng X, Ran M. miR-130a promotes immature porcine Sertoli cell growth by activating SMAD5 through the TGF-β-PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. FASEB J 2020; 34:15164-15179. [PMID: 32918760 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001384r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells play vital roles in normal spermatogenesis, and microRNAs (miRNAs) participate in regulating Sertoli cell development. However, the functions and mechanisms of action of most identified miRNAs in porcine Sertoli cells remain largely unknown. Herein, we primarily explored the regulatory roles of miR-130a in immature porcine Sertoli cells using EdU-based high-content screening assay. The results demonstrated that 27 miRNAs have potential roles in the promotion of immature porcine Sertoli cell proliferation, and miR-130a was identified as a promising candidate. miR-130a promoted cell cycle progression and cell proliferation, whereas it impeded cell apoptosis in immature porcine Sertoli cells. It also contributed to Sertoli cell proliferation and testis development in vivo. A TMT-based proteomics approach revealed that miR-130a regulated the expression of 91 proteins and multiple pathways, including the TGF-β and PI3K/AKT signaling. miR-130a did not directly target the 3'-UTR of SMAD5; however, it increased SMAD5 phosphorylation. Moreover, miR-130a enhanced TGF-β signaling by activating SMAD5 protein, and TGF-β signaling further activated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to promote cell proliferation and inhibit cell apoptosis in porcine immature Sertoli cells. Collectively, miR-130a promoted immature porcine Sertoli cell growth by activating SMAD5 through the TGF-β-PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. This study, therefore, provides novel insights into the effects of miR-130a on porcine spermatogenesis through the regulation of immature Sertoli cell proliferation and apoptosis.
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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
| | - Bin Chen
- 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
| | - Dan Chu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animal, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Xinyu Zeng
- 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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Chen X, Zheng Y, Li X, Gao Q, Feng T, Zhang P, Liao M, Tian X, Lu H, Zeng W. Profiling of miRNAs in porcine Sertoli cells. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2020; 11:85. [PMID: 32821380 PMCID: PMC7429792 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-020-00487-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sertoli cells (SCs) create a specialized environment to support and dictate spermatogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a kind of ~ 22 nt small noncoding RNAs, have been reported to be highly abundant in mouse SCs and play critical roles in spermatogenesis. However, the miRNAs of porcine SCs remain largely unknown. Methods We isolated porcine SCs and conducted small RNA sequencing. By comparing miRNAs in germ cells, we systematically analyzed the miRNA expression pattern of porcine SCs. We screened the highly enriched SC miRNAs and predicted their functions by Gene Ontology analysis. The dual luciferase assay was used to elucidate the regulation of tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR)-associated factor 3 (TRAF3) by ssc-miR-149. Results The analysis showed that 18 miRNAs were highly expressed in SCs and 15 miRNAs were highly expressed in germ cells. These miRNAs were predicted to mediate SC and germ cell functions. In addition, ssc-miR-149 played critical roles in SCs by targeting TRAF3. Conclusion Our findings provide novel insights into the miRNA expression pattern and their regulatory roles of porcine SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxu Chen
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, 723001 China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Yi Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Xueliang Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Qiang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Tongying Feng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Mingzhi Liao
- College of Life Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Xiu'e Tian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Hongzhao Lu
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, 723001 China
| | - Wenxian Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
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13
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Autophagy as a consequence of seasonal functions of testis and epididymis in adult male European bison (Bison bonasus, Linnaeus 1758). Cell Tissue Res 2019; 379:613-624. [PMID: 31705214 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-019-03111-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The European bison is still an animal endangered with extinction, so by learning factors that regulate its reproduction, we can contribute to the survival of this species. On the other hand, autophagy is a dynamic, lisosomal, and evolutionary conserved process which is essential for animal cell survival, homeostasis, and differentiation. This process was demonstrated in many species and in many organs; however, information on the metabolic course of autophagy in the male reproductive system in seasonally reproducing species is lacking. Therefore, in this study, we examined for the first time several autophagy-related factors (mTOR, ULK1, Atg13, PI3K, beclin1, beclin2, Atg14, Atg5, Atg16L, LC3) in testicular and epididymal tissues obtained from adult male individuals of the European bison. We compared the level of gene expression, protein synthesis, and localization of autophagy-related factors between June, September, and December (before, during, and after reproductive activity, respectively). We confirmed that the induction of autophagy was at the highest level in the period after reproductive activity, i.e., in December, when a significant increase in the gene and protein expression was observed for the majority of these factors, probably to ensure cellular protection. However, autophagy was also clearly marked in September, during the intense spermatogenesis, and this may indicate a great demand for autophagy-related proteins required for the normal development of reproductive cells. Obtained results seem to confirm that autophagy pathway, as a consequence of seasonal reproduction, may control the normal course of spermatogenesis in the male European bison.
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Che Q, Wang W, Duan P, Fang F, Liu C, Zhou T, Li H, Xiong C, Zhao K. Downregulation of miR-322 promotes apoptosis of GC-2 cell by targeting Ddx3x. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:63. [PMID: 31382975 PMCID: PMC6683552 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0506-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberrant DNA damage of germ cells, which impairs spermatogenesis and lowers fertility, is an important factor contributing to male infertility. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a significant role in the expression and regulation of multiple genes during spermatogenesis. Our previous study found much lower miR-424 (murine homologue miR-322) levels in the seminal plasma of infertile patients with high DFI(DNA Fragmentation Index)than in the fertile group. However, the mechanism by which miR-322 regulates germ cells during spermatogenesis remains unknown. METHODS In this study, we successfully established a GC-2 cell model of miR-322 downregulation resulting in impaired spermatogenesis. And the cell viability were measured using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8; Dojindo, Japan) and MTT (Sigma Aldrich, USA). Immunofluorescence assay was used to detect cell damage and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins were measured using real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis. Target genes were predicted and verified by online database retrieval and Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. RESULTS We observed evident decreases in the cell viability of GC-2 cells along with remarkable increases in apoptosis after miR-322 inhibition. While the expression of apoptosis-related genes, including Bax and caspases 3, 9, and 8 greatly increased in GC-2 cells after miR-322 downregulation, that of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 gene decreased. Ddx3x was found to be the direct target of miR-322. MiR-424 was then detected in the seminal plasma of infertile patients with high DFI(DNA Fragmentation Index); this miRNA was down-regulated but Ddx3x was upregulated in the infertile group. CONCLUSION MiR-322 plays a key role in promoting GC-2 cell apoptosis by directly regulating Ddx3x expression. MiR-424 downregulation in infertile men may induce spermatogenic cell apoptosis and sperm DNA damage by directly acting on the target gene locus Ddx3x, resulting in male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Che
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Peng Duan
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ting Zhou
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, 430014, China
| | - Chengling Xiong
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, 430014, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Milon A, Knapczyk-Stwora K, Pawlicki P, Duliban M, Gorowska-Wojtowicz E, Kotula-Balak M, Bilinska B. Effect of estrogen-related receptor silencing on miRNA protein machinery expression, global methylation, and deacetylation in bank vole (Myodes glareolus) and mouse tumor Leydig cells. Theriogenology 2019; 139:178-190. [PMID: 31421412 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The function of estrogen-related receptor (ERR) in testicular cells is at the beginning of exploration. Our previous findings showed that expression pattern of estrogen-related receptor (ERR) in mouse Leydig cell depends on physiological status of the cell. Exogenous hormones/hormonally active chemicals affect ERR expression. In Leydig cells in vitro, ERRα and ERRγ show opposing regulatory properties. The aim of this study was to examine the role of ERR in epigenetic processes in cells with altered level of secreted estrogens; mouse tumor Leydig cells and bank vole Leydig cells, respectively. In Leydig cells, ERRα and ERRγ were silenced via siRNA. mRNA and protein expression and protein localization of molecules required for miRNA biogenesis and function (Exportin 5, Dicer, Drosha and Argonaute 2; Ago2) were studied with the use of qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Global DNA methylation and histone deacetylation status together with estradiol secretion were determined with fluorometric, and immunoenzymatic assays. Regardless of ERR type knockdown in tumor Leydig cells, downregulation (P < 0.05; P < 0.01; P < 0.001) of Exportin5, Dicer, Drosha but not Ago2 was revealed while at protein level only Drosha was downregulated (P < 0.01) by both ERRα and ERRγ. Oppositely, Exportin5, Dicer and Ago2 showed ERR type-dependent regulation (downregulation; P < 0.01 by ERRα and upregulation; P < 0.01; P < 0.001 by ERRγ). In ERR-silenced vole Leydig cells, expression of Exportin5, endonucleases and Ago2 was not changed. Immunolocalization of Dicer and Ago2 was independent of the cell origin in contrast to localization of Exportin5 and Drosha which was dependent on the cell origin and ERR type knockdown. Absence of ERR effected on cell methylation status (ERRα increased it; P < 0.01 while ERRγ decreased it; P < 0.01, P < 0.001) but it not changed histone deacetylates activity. ERRα and ERRγ silencing decreased (P < 0.01, P < 0.001) estradiol secretion in both tumor and vole Leydig cells. In mouse and bank vole Leydig cell, Exportin5, Dicer, Drosha and Ago2 expression as well as methylation status are regulated by ERR in a manner related to receptor type, molecule type, cell origin and level of secreted estrogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Milon
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Knapczyk-Stwora
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Piotr Pawlicki
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Michal Duliban
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Ewelina Gorowska-Wojtowicz
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Kotula-Balak
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland; University Centre of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agriculture in Kraków, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Barbara Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
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MiR-125b-2 Knockout in Testis Is Associated with Targeting to the PAP Gene, Mitochondrial Copy Number, and Impaired Sperm Quality. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20010148. [PMID: 30609807 PMCID: PMC6337273 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20010148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 12/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been reported that the miR-125 family plays an important role in regulating embryo development. However, the function of miR-125b-2 in spermatogenesis remains unknown. In this study, we used a model of miR-125b knockout (KO) mice to study the relationship between miR-125b-2 and spermatogenesis. Among the KO mice, the progeny test showed that the litter size decreased significantly (p = 0.0002) and the rate of non-parous females increased significantly from 10% to 38%. At the same time, the testosterone concentration increased significantly (p = 0.007), with a remarkable decrease for estradiol (p = 0.02). Moreover, the sperm count decreased obviously (p = 0.011) and the percentage of abnormal sperm increased significantly (p = 0.0002). The testicular transcriptome sequencing revealed that there were 173 up-regulated genes, including Papolb (PAP), and 151 down-regulated genes in KO mice compared with wild type (WT). The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and gene ontology (GO) analysis showed that many of these genes were involved in sperm mitochondrial metabolism and other cellular biological processes. Meanwhile, the sperm mitochondria DNA (mtDNA) copy number increased significantly in the KO mice, but there were no changes observed in the mtDNA integrity and mutations of mt-Cytb, as well as the mt-ATP6 between the WT mice and KO mice. In the top 10 up-regulated genes, PAP, as a testis specific expressing gene, affect the process of spermatogenesis. Western blotting and the Luciferase assay validated that PAP was the target of miR-125b-5p. Intriguingly, we also found that both miR-125b and PAP were only highly expressed in the germ cells (GC) instead of in the Leydig cells (LC) and Sertoli cells (SC). Additionally, miR-125b-5p down regulated the secretion of testosterone in the TM3 cell by targeting PAP (p = 0.021). Our study firstly demonstrated that miR-125b-2 regulated testosterone secretion by directly targeting PAP, and increased the sperm mtDNA copy number to affect semen quality. The study indicated that miR-125b-2 had a positive influence on the reproductive performance of animals by regulating the expression of the PAP gene, and could be a potential drugs and diagnostic target for male infertility.
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Constitutive Dicer1 phosphorylation accelerates metabolism and aging in vivo. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 116:960-969. [PMID: 30593561 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1814377116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
DICER1 gene alterations and decreased expression are associated with developmental disorders and diseases in humans. Oscillation of Dicer1 phosphorylation and dephosphorylation regulates its function during the oocyte-to-embryo transition in Caenorhabditis elegans Dicer1 is also phosphorylated upon FGF stimulation at conserved serines in mouse embryonic fibroblasts and HEK293 cells. However, whether phosphorylation of Dicer1 has a role in mammalian development remains unknown. To investigate the consequence of constitutive phosphorylation, we generated phosphomimetic knock-in mouse models by replacing conserved serines 1712 and 1836 with aspartic acids individually or together. Dicer1 S1836D/S1836D mice display highly penetrant postnatal lethality, and the few survivors display accelerated aging and infertility. Homozygous dual-phosphomimetic Dicer1 augments these defects, alters metabolism-associated miRNAs, and causes a hypermetabolic phenotype. Thus, constitutive phosphorylation of Dicer1 results in multiple pathologic processes in mice, indicating that phosphorylation tightly regulates Dicer1 function and activity in mammals.
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Loss of Drosha underlies dopaminergic neuron toxicity in models of Parkinson's disease. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:693. [PMID: 29880811 PMCID: PMC5992196 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-0716-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Revised: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
MiRNAs, a group of powerful modulator of gene expression, participate in multiple cellular processes under physiological and pathological conditions. Emerging evidence shows that Drosha, which controls the initial step in canonical miRNA biogenesis, is involved in modulating cell survival and death in models of several diseases. However, the role of Drosha in Parkinson’s disease (PD) has not been well established. Here, we show that the level of Drosha decreases in 6-OHDA-induced cellular and animal models of PD. 6-OHDA induced a p38 MAPK-dependent phosphorylation of Drosha. This triggered Drosha degradation. Enhancing the level of Drosha protected the dopaminergic (DA) neurons from 6-OHDA-induced toxicity in both in vitro and in vivo models of PD and alleviated the motor deficits of PD mice. These findings reveal that Drosha plays a critical role in the survival of DA neurons and suggest that stress-induced destabilization of Drosha may be part of the pathological process in PD.
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Hurtado A, Real FM, Palomino R, Carmona FD, Burgos M, Jiménez R, Barrionuevo FJ. Sertoli cell-specific ablation of miR-17-92 cluster significantly alters whole testis transcriptome without apparent phenotypic effects. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0197685. [PMID: 29795630 PMCID: PMC5967698 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0197685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are frequently organized into polycistronic clusters whose transcription is controlled by a single promoter. The miR-17-92 cluster is expressed in most embryonic and postnatal organs. It is a potent oncogene associated to several types of cancer and it is involved in several important developmental processes. In the testis, expression of the miR-17-92 cluster in the germ cells is necessary to maintain normal spermatogenesis. This cluster is also expressed in Sertoli cells (the somatic cells of the seminiferous tubules), which require miRNAs for correct cell development and survival. To study the possible role of miR-17-92 in Sertoli cell development and function and, in order to overcome the postnatal lethality of miR-17-92-/ mice, we conditionally deleted it in embryonic Sertoli cells shortly after the sex determination stage using an Amh-Cre allele. Mutant mice developed apparently normal testes and were fertile, but their testis transcriptomes contained hundreds of moderately deregulated genes, indicating that testis homeostasis is tightly controlled in mammals and that miR-17-92 expression in Sertoli cells contribute to maintain normal gene expression levels, but is unnecessary for testis development and function. Our results show that significant deregulation of hundreds of genes might have no functional consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Hurtado
- Departamento de Genética, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - Francisca M. Real
- Departamento de Genética, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - Rogelio Palomino
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular I, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada, Universidad de Granada,Centro de Investigación Biomédica,Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - Francisco David Carmona
- Departamento de Genética, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - Miguel Burgos
- Departamento de Genética, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - Rafael Jiménez
- Departamento de Genética, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - Francisco J. Barrionuevo
- Departamento de Genética, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain
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Fernández-Pérez D, Brieño-Enríquez MA, Isoler-Alcaraz J, Larriba E, Del Mazo J. MicroRNA dynamics at the onset of primordial germ and somatic cell sex differentiation during mouse embryonic gonad development. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2018; 24:287-303. [PMID: 29187591 PMCID: PMC5824349 DOI: 10.1261/rna.062869.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, commitment and specification of germ cell lines involves complex programs that include sex differentiation, control of proliferation, and meiotic initiation. Regulation of these processes is genetically controlled by fine-tuned mechanisms of gene regulation in which microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved. We have characterized, by small-RNA-seq and bioinformatics analyses, the miRNA expression patterns of male and female mouse primordial germ cells (PGCs) and gonadal somatic cells at embryonic stages E11.5, E12.5, and E13.5. Differential expression analyses revealed differences in the regulation of key miRNA clusters such as miR-199-214, miR-182-183-96, and miR-34c-5p, whose targets have defined roles during gonadal sexual determination in both germ and somatic cells. Extensive analyses of miRNA sequences revealed an increase in noncanonical isoforms on PGCs at E12.5 and dramatic changes of 3' isomiR expression and 3' nontemplate nucleotide additions in female PGCs at E13.5. Additionally, RT-qPCR analyses of genes encoding proteins involved in miRNA biogenesis and 3' nucleotide addition uncovered sexually and developmentally specific expression, characterized by the decay of Drosha, Dgcr8, and Xpo5 expression along gonadal development. These results demonstrate that miRNAs, their isomiRs, and miRNA machinery are differentially regulated and participate actively in gonadal sexual differentiation in both PGCs and gonadal somatic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Fernández-Pérez
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Miguel A Brieño-Enríquez
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Javier Isoler-Alcaraz
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Eduardo Larriba
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Jesús Del Mazo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), Madrid 28040, Spain
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Qiu W, Zhu Y, Wu Y, Yuan C, Chen K, Li M. Identification and expression analysis of microRNAs in medaka gonads. Gene 2018; 646:210-216. [PMID: 29305975 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2017.12.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Gonad development is a highly regulated, coordinated biological process and increasing evidences have indicated that microRNA (miRNA) may be involved in this dynamic program. Medaka (Oryzias latipes) is a good model for reproductive research as it has distinct sex determining genes, however, research in gonadal miRNAs is lacked. In this study, two small RNA libraries from the ovaries and testes were constructed and sequenced. A total of 285 conserved and 388 novel miRNAs were obtained, among which 142 mature miRNAs were significantly (> two-fold change) up or down regulated in the testis compared to the ovary. Quantitative Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis showed that miR-430c, miR-26a and miR-202-5p were expressed in a gonad-specific or sex-biased pattern. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) indicated that miR-202-5p was present throughout spermatogenesis and was only detected at the early stages of oogenesis, this sex biased expression pattern suggested that miR-202-5p might be a crucial candidate in male differentiation and development. Our study provides the repertoire, a comprehensive annotation of miRNAs from gonads and a reference for functional studies of miRNAs in medaka.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Yefei Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Yun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Cancan Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Kerang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Mingyou Li
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China.
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Harchegani AB, Shafaghatian H, Tahmasbpour E, Shahriary A. Regulatory Functions of MicroRNAs in Male Reproductive Health: A New Approach to Understanding Male Infertility. Reprod Sci 2018:1933719118765972. [PMID: 29587612 DOI: 10.1177/1933719118765972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a novel class of small noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) that play critical roles in regulation of gene expression, especially at posttranscriptional level. Over the past decade, the degree to which miRNAs are involved in male infertility has become clear. They are expressed in a cell- or phase-specific manner during spermatogenesis and play crucial role in male reproductive health. Therefore, dysregulation of miRNAs in testicular cells can be considered as a molecular basis for reproductive failure and male infertility. The abnormal expression pattern of miRNAs can be transmitted to the offspring via assisted reproductive techniques (ART) and results in the birth of children with a higher risk of infertility, congenital abnormalities, and morbidity. This review expounds on the miRNAs reported to play essential roles in somatic cells development, germ cells differentiation, steroidogenesis, normal spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, and male infertility, as well as emphasizes their importance as minimally invasive biomarkers of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asghar Beigi Harchegani
- 1 Chemical Injuries Research Center, System Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Shafaghatian
- 1 Chemical Injuries Research Center, System Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Eisa Tahmasbpour
- 2 Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Biomedical Innovations, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Shahriary
- 1 Chemical Injuries Research Center, System Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Moghbelinejad S, Najafipour R, Momeni A. Association of rs1057035polymorphism in microRNA biogenesis pathway gene (DICER1) with azoospermia among Iranian population. Genes Genomics 2017; 40:17-24. [DOI: 10.1007/s13258-017-0605-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Abstract
The nucleolus is a distinct compartment of the nucleus responsible for ribosome biogenesis. Mis-regulation of nucleolar functions and of the cellular translation machinery has been associated with disease, in particular with many types of cancer. Indeed, many tumor suppressors (p53, Rb, PTEN, PICT1, BRCA1) and proto-oncogenes (MYC, NPM) play a direct role in the nucleolus, and interact with the RNA polymerase I transcription machinery and the nucleolar stress response. We have identified Dicer and the RNA interference pathway as having an essential role in the nucleolus of quiescent Schizosaccharomyces pombe cells, distinct from pericentromeric silencing, by controlling RNA polymerase I release. We propose that this novel function is evolutionarily conserved and may contribute to the tumorigenic pre-disposition of DICER1 mutations in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Roche
- a Martienssen Lab, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory , Cold Spring Harbor , NY , USA
| | - Benoît Arcangioli
- b Genome Dynamics Unit, UMR 3525 CNRS, Institut Pasteur , Paris , France
| | - Rob Martienssen
- a Martienssen Lab, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory , Cold Spring Harbor , NY , USA.,c Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory , Cold Spring Harbor , NY , USA
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25
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MicroRNAs in Sertoli cells: implications for spermatogenesis and fertility. Cell Tissue Res 2017; 370:335-346. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2667-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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26
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Chen X, Li X, Guo J, Zhang P, Zeng W. The roles of microRNAs in regulation of mammalian spermatogenesis. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2017; 8:35. [PMID: 28469844 PMCID: PMC5410700 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-017-0166-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis contains three continuous and organized processes, by which spermatogonia undergo mitosis and differentiate to spermatocytes, follow on meiosis to form haploid spermatids and ultimately transform into spermatozoa. These processes require an accurately, spatially and temporally regulated gene expression patterns. The microRNAs are a novel class of post-transcriptional regulators. Cumulating evidences have demonstrated that microRNAs are expressed in a cell-specific or stage-specific manner during spermatogenesis. In this review, we focus on the roles of microRNAs in spermatogenesis. We highlight that N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is involved in the biogenesis of microRNAs and miRNA regulates the m6A modification on mRNA, and that specific miRNAs have been exploited as potential biomarkers for the male factor infertility, which will provide insightful understanding of microRNA roles in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxu Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100 China
| | - Xueliang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100 China
| | - Jiayin Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100 China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100 China
| | - Wenxian Zeng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100 China
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27
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Zika Virus Causes Testis Damage and Leads to Male Infertility in Mice. Cell 2016; 167:1511-1524.e10. [PMID: 27884405 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2016.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 262] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) persists in the semen of male patients, a first for flavivirus infection. Here, we demonstrate that ZIKV can induce inflammation in the testis and epididymidis, but not in the prostate or seminal vesicle, and can lead to damaged testes after 60 days post-infection in mice. ZIKV induces innate immune responses in Leydig, Sertoli, and epididymal epithelial cells, resulting in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines. However, ZIKV does not induce a rapid and abundant cytokine production in peritubular cell and spermatogonia, suggesting that these cells are vulnerable for ZIKV infection and could be the potential repositories for ZIKV. Our study demonstrates a correlation between ZIKV and testis infection/damage and suggests that ZIKV infection, under certain circumstances, can eventually lead to male infertility.
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Chen SR, Tang JX, Cheng JM, Li J, Jin C, Li XY, Deng SL, Zhang Y, Wang XX, Liu YX. Loss of Gata4 in Sertoli cells impairs the spermatogonial stem cell niche and causes germ cell exhaustion by attenuating chemokine signaling. Oncotarget 2016; 6:37012-27. [PMID: 26473289 PMCID: PMC4741912 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells, the primary somatic cell in the seminiferous epithelium, provide the spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) microenvironment (niche) through physical support and the expression of paracrine factors. However, the regulatory mechanisms within the SSC niche, which is primarily controlled by Sertoli cells, remain largely unknown. GATA4 is a Sertoli cell marker, involved in genital ridge initiation, sex determination and differentiation during the embryonic stage. Here, we showed that neonatal mice with a targeted disruption of Gata4 in Sertoli cells (Gata4(flox/flox); Amh-Cre; hereafter termed Gata4 cKO) displayed a loss of the establishment and maintenance of the SSC pool and apoptosis of both gonocyte-derived differentiating spermatogonia and meiotic spermatocytes. Thus, progressive germ cell depletion and a Sertoli-cell-only syndrome were observed as early as the first wave of murine spermatogenesis. Transplantation of germ cells from postnatal day 5 (P5) Gata4 cKO mice into Kit(W/W-v) recipient seminiferous tubules restored spermatogenesis. In addition, microarray analyses of P5 Gata4 cKO mouse testes showed alterations in chemokine signaling factors, including Cxcl12, Ccl3, Cxcr4 (CXCL12 receptor), Ccr1 (CCL3 receptor), Ccl9, Xcl1 and Ccrl2. Deletion of Gata4 in Sertoli cells markedly attenuated Sertoli cell chemotaxis, which guides SSCs or prospermatogonia to the stem cell niche. Finally, we showed that GATA4 transcriptionally regulated Cxcl12 and Ccl9, and the addition of CXCL12 and CCL9 to an in vitro testis tissue culture system increased the number of PLZF+ undifferentiated spermatogonia within Gata4 cKO testes. Together, these results reveal a novel role for GATA4 in controlling the SSC niche via the transcriptional regulation of chemokine signaling shortly after birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Ren Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China
| | - Ji-Xin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China
| | - Jin-Mei Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China
| | - Jian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China
| | - Cheng Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China
| | - Xiao-Yu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China
| | - Shou-Long Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China
| | - Xiu-Xia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China
| | - Yi-Xun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, RP China
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29
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Abstract
Dicer1 is an RNase III enzyme necessary for microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis, as it cleaves pre-miRNAs into mature miRNAs. miRNAs are important regulators of gene expression. In recent years, several miRNA-independent roles of Dicer1 have been identified. They include the production of endogenous small interfering RNAs, detoxifying retrotransposon-derived transcripts, and binding to new targets; messenger RNAs and long noncoding RNAs. Further, in this review, the functional significance of Dicer1 in the male reproductive tract is discussed. Conditional Dicer1 knock-out mouse models have demonstrated a requisite role for Dicer in male fertility. Deletion of Dicer1 from somatic or germ cells in the testis cause spermatogenic problems rendering male mice infertile. The lack of Dicer1 in the proximal epididymis causes dedifferentiation of the epithelium, with unbalanced sex steroid receptor expression, defects in epithelial lipid homeostasis, and subsequent male infertility. In addition, Dicer1 ablation from the prostate leads to increased apoptosis of the differentiated luminal cells, followed by epithelial hypotrophy of the ventral prostate. However, further studies are needed to clarify which functions of Dicer1 are responsible for the observed phenotypes in the male reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Petra Sipilä
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine; Laboratory Animal Centre, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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30
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Pihlajoki M, Färkkilä A, Soini T, Heikinheimo M, Wilson DB. GATA factors in endocrine neoplasia. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 421:2-17. [PMID: 26027919 PMCID: PMC4662929 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2015] [Revised: 04/26/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
GATA transcription factors are structurally-related zinc finger proteins that recognize the consensus DNA sequence WGATAA (the GATA motif), an essential cis-acting element in the promoters and enhancers of many genes. These transcription factors regulate cell fate specification and differentiation in a wide array of tissues. As demonstrated by genetic analyses of mice and humans, GATA factors play pivotal roles in the development, homeostasis, and function of several endocrine organs including the adrenal cortex, ovary, pancreas, parathyroid, pituitary, and testis. Additionally, GATA factors have been shown to be mutated, overexpressed, or underexpressed in a variety of endocrine tumors (e.g., adrenocortical neoplasms, parathyroid tumors, pituitary adenomas, and sex cord stromal tumors). Emerging evidence suggests that GATA factors play a direct role in the initiation, proliferation, or propagation of certain endocrine tumors via modulation of key developmental signaling pathways implicated in oncogenesis, such as the WNT/β-catenin and TGFβ pathways. Altered expression or function of GATA factors can also affect the metabolism, ploidy, and invasiveness of tumor cells. This article provides an overview of the role of GATA factors in endocrine neoplasms. Relevant animal models are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjut Pihlajoki
- Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anniina Färkkilä
- Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tea Soini
- Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Markku Heikinheimo
- Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Pediatrics, St. Louis Children's Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - David B Wilson
- Department of Pediatrics, St. Louis Children's Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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31
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Grossman H, Shalgi R. A Role of MicroRNAs in Cell Differentiation During Gonad Development. Results Probl Cell Differ 2016; 58:309-36. [PMID: 27300184 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-31973-5_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small noncoding RNA molecules that play a major role in posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression and are expressed in an organ-specific manner. One miRNA can potentially regulate the expression of several genes, depending on cell type and differentiation stage. miRNAs are differentially expressed in the male and female gonads and have an organ-specific reproductive function. Exerting their affect through germ cells and gonadal somatic cells, miRNAs regulate key proteins necessary for gonad development. The role of miRNAs in the testes is only starting to emerge though they have been shown to be required for adequate spermatogenesis. Widely explored in the ovary, miRNAs were suggested to play a fundamental role in follicles' assembly, growth, differentiation, and ovulation. In this chapter, we focus on data obtained from mice in which distinct proteins that participate in the biosynthesis of miRNAs were conditionally knocked out from germ cells (spermatogonial cells or oocytes) or gonadal somatic cells (Sertoli or granulosa cells). We detail recent advances in identification of particular miRNAs and their significance in the development and function of male and female gonads. miRNAs can serve as biomarkers and therapeutic agents of pathological conditions; thus, elucidating the branched and complex network of reproduction-related miRNAs will aid understanding of gonads' physiology and managing reproduction disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadas Grossman
- Department of Cell Biology and Development, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Israel
| | - Ruth Shalgi
- Department of Cell Biology and Development, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Israel.
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32
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Luo LF, Hou CC, Yang WX. Small non-coding RNAs and their associated proteins in spermatogenesis. Gene 2015; 578:141-57. [PMID: 26692146 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2015.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Revised: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The importance of the gene regulation roles of small non-coding RNAs and their protein partners is of increasing focus. In this paper, we reviewed three main small RNA species which appear to affect spermatogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are single stand RNAs derived from transcripts containing stem-loops and hairpins which target corresponding mRNAs and affect their stability or translation. Many miRNA species have been found to be related to normal male germ cell development. The biogenesis of piRNAs is still largely unknown but several models have been proposed. Some piRNAs and PIWIs target transposable elements and it is these that may be active in regulating translation or stem cell maintenance. endo-siRNAs may also participate in sperm development. Some possible interactions between different kinds of small RNAs have even been suggested. We also show that male germ granules are seen to have a close relationship with a considerable number of mRNAs and small RNAs. Those special structures may also participate in sperm development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Feng Luo
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Cong-Cong Hou
- School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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33
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A survey of DICER1 hotspot mutations in ovarian and testicular sex cord-stromal tumors. Mod Pathol 2015; 28:1603-12. [PMID: 26428316 PMCID: PMC4666775 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.2015.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 08/09/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors are characterized by the presence of somatic DICER1 hotspot mutations. In this study, we sought to define the association between DICER1 hotspot mutations and different morphologic subtypes of ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors. Furthermore, we aimed to assess whether DICER1 hotspot mutations occur in other ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors, testicular sex cord-stromal tumors, or other female genital tract tumors with rhabdomyosarcomatous differentiation. We subjected a series of ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (n=32), Sertoli cell tumors (n=5) and gynandroblastomas (n=5), testicular sex cord-stromal tumors (n=15) and a diverse group of female genital tract tumors with rhabdomyosarcomatous morphology (n=10) to DICER1 hotspot mutation analysis using Sanger sequencing. We also tested two gynandroblastomas for the presence of FOXL2 hotspot mutations (p.C134W; c.402C>G). Twenty of 32 (63%) Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors harbored a DICER1 hotspot mutation, of which 80% had the p.E1705K mutation. No association was found between DICER1 mutation status and the presence of heterologous or retiform differentiation in Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors. DICER1 mutations were found at similar frequencies in gynandroblastoma (2/5; 40%) and ovarian Sertoli cell tumors (5/8; 63%; P>0.1), and all mutated tumors harbored a p.E1705K mutation. DICER1 hotspot mutations were also identified in a single cervical rhabdomyosarcoma and in the rhabdomyosarcomatous component of a uterine carcinosarcoma. No DICER1 mutations were detected in testicular sex cord-stromal tumors. Two DICER1 wild-type gynandroblastomas harbored a p.C134W FOXL2 hotspot mutation in both tumor components. In this study we confirmed that DICER1 hotspot mutations occur in over half of ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors, and are unrelated to tumor differentiation. We also widened the spectrum of ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors with sertoliform differentiation, in which DICER1 mutations are known to occur, to include Sertoli cell tumors and gynandroblastomas. Our results suggest that DICER1 mutations may not have a role in testicular sex cord-stromal tumorigenesis.
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34
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MiR-122 partly mediates the ochratoxin A-induced GC-2 cell apoptosis. Toxicol In Vitro 2015; 30:264-73. [PMID: 26514935 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2015.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Revised: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin which has been shown to be nephrotoxic, hepatotoxic, and immunotoxic to animals, and mainly exists in the mildew grain. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate a wide variety of cellular processes. However, the toxic effects of OTA on the germ cell and whether miRNAs mediate the effects of OTA-induced GC-2 cell apoptosis are still not clear. In the present study, OTA treatment resulted in a dose-dependent increase apoptosis in GC-2 cells. MiR-122 was increased in the OTA-treated GC-2 cells. It showed that Bcl-w was down-regulated after OTA treatment, and caspase-3 was obviously activated. Cyclin G1 (CCNG1) was significantly decreased, and inversely the expression of p53 was increased. Inhibition of miR-122 partly relieved the OTA-induced GC-2 cell apoptosis. These results indicate that OTA induces GC-2 cell apoptosis by causing the increase of caspase-3 activity and that miR-122 partly mediates the OTA-induced cell apoptosis.
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35
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Smith LB, O'Shaughnessy PJ, Rebourcet D. Cell-specific ablation in the testis: what have we learned? Andrology 2015; 3:1035-49. [PMID: 26446427 PMCID: PMC4950036 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2015] [Revised: 08/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Testicular development and function is the culmination of a complex process of autocrine, paracrine and endocrine interactions between multiple cell types. Dissecting this has classically involved the use of systemic treatments to perturb endocrine function, or more recently, transgenic models to knockout individual genes. However, targeting genes one at a time does not capture the more wide‐ranging role of each cell type in its entirety. An often overlooked, but extremely powerful approach to elucidate cellular function is the use of cell ablation strategies, specifically removing one cellular population and examining the resultant impacts on development and function. Cell ablation studies reveal a more holistic overview of cell–cell interactions. This not only identifies important roles for the ablated cell type, which warrant further downstream study, but also, and importantly, reveals functions within the tissue that occur completely independently of the ablated cell type. To date, cell ablation studies in the testis have specifically removed germ cells, Leydig cells, macrophages and recently Sertoli cells. These studies have provided great leaps in understanding not possible via other approaches; as such, cell ablation represents an essential component in the researchers’ tool‐kit, and should be viewed as a complement to the more mainstream approaches to advancing our understanding of testis biology. In this review, we summarise the cell ablation models used in the testis, and discuss what each of these have taught us about testis development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- L B Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - P J O'Shaughnessy
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Garscube Campus, Glasgow, UK
| | - D Rebourcet
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
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36
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Knapczyk-Stwora K, Belej A, Grzesiak M, Slomczynska M. Effect of gestational antiandrogen treatment on Dicer1 expression in the porcine fetal gonads. Acta Histochem 2015; 117:725-31. [PMID: 26433267 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2015.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Revised: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Recently, we have demonstrated that flutamide-induced androgen deficiency during fetal life led to changes in gene expression that affected both testicular functions and follicular formation. It is known that microRNA-mediated genes regulation is essential for gonadal development and function. Thus, the aim of the present study was to examine whether prenatal flutamide exposure influences expression of Dicer1, an enzyme involved in microRNA maturation, in gonads of porcine fetuses during mid- and late gestation. Pregnant gilts were injected with flutamide (50mg/day/kg b.w.) or corn oil (controls) between days 43-49, 83-89 or 101-107 of gestation. The fetal gonads were obtained on gestational day 50 (GD50), 90 (GD90) or 108 (GD108). To assess Dicer1 mRNA expression real-time PCR were performed. Furthermore, immunohistochemical Dicer1 localization was conducted. In testes from flutamide treated fetuses, increased Dicer1 mRNA expression was observed in the GD50 and GD108 groups, but decreased in the GD90 group. Dicer1 was immunolocalized in the fetal Leydig cells in both control and flutamide-treated groups. In fetal ovaries, antiandrogen treatment increased Dicer1 mRNA level in the GD50 and GD90 groups. In control and flutamide-exposed groups, Dicer1 was localized in the germ cells within oogonia/oocyte nests as well as in the granulosa cells and oocytes of forming follicles. Concluding, diminished androgen action during gestation induces changes in Dicer1 mRNA expression, which may affect post-transcriptional gene regulation via miRNAs in porcine fetal gonads. However, it seems that androgens exert diverse biological effects depending on the gestational period.
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37
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Yang Q, Li W, She H, Dou J, Duong DM, Du Y, Yang SH, Seyfried NT, Fu H, Gao G, Mao Z. Stress induces p38 MAPK-mediated phosphorylation and inhibition of Drosha-dependent cell survival. Mol Cell 2015; 57:721-734. [PMID: 25699712 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2015.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2013] [Revised: 07/14/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate the translational potential of their mRNA targets and control many cellular processes. The key step in canonical miRNA biogenesis is the cleavage of the primary transcripts by the nuclear RNase III enzyme Drosha. Emerging evidence suggests that the miRNA biogenic cascade is tightly controlled. However, little is known whether Drosha is regulated. Here, we show that Drosha is targeted by stress. Under stress, p38 MAPK directly phosphorylates Drosha at its N terminus. This reduces its interaction with DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 8 and promotes its nuclear export and degradation by calpain. This regulatory mechanism mediates stress-induced inhibition of Drosha function. Reduction of Drosha sensitizes cells to stress and increases death. In contrast, increase in Drosha attenuates stress-induced death. These findings reveal a critical regulatory mechanism by which stress engages p38 MAPK pathway to destabilize Drosha and inhibit Drosha-mediated cellular survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710038, China; Department of Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Wenming Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Hua She
- Department of Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Juan Dou
- Department of Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Duc M Duong
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Yuhong Du
- Department of Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Shao-Hua Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
| | - Nicholas T Seyfried
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Haian Fu
- Department of Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Guodong Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710038, China
| | - Zixu Mao
- Department of Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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38
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Dabaja AA, Mielnik A, Robinson BD, Wosnitzer MS, Schlegel PN, Paduch DA. Possible germ cell-Sertoli cell interactions are critical for establishing appropriate expression levels for the Sertoli cell-specific MicroRNA, miR-202-5p, in human testis. Basic Clin Androl 2015; 25:2. [PMID: 25780590 PMCID: PMC4349757 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-015-0018-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To examine human microRNA expression in fertile men and subsequently to compare expression patterns of miRNAs in fertile and infertile men, specifically men with Sertoli Cell Only (SCO) histopathology. Methods Testicular tissues from men with azoospermia and SCO, as well as those of men with normal spermatogenesis, were analyzed. MicroRNA was isolated using the miRCURY™ RNA Purification Kit. A miRCURY LNA™ Universal RT system was used for detection of microRNA by quantitative real-time PCR. MicroRNA localization was performed by in situ hybridizations (ISH) on formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue utilizing miRCURY LNA™ microRNA ISH technology. Statistical analysis was performed by GenEx V5.0. Results MicroRNA expression was determined for 13 normal fertile men and 5 men with the confirmed diagnosis of diffuse SCO. MiR-202-5p expression was reduced by 17-fold (P < 0.00001) in tissue from SCO men compared to normal. MiR-34c-5p was reduced by 346-fold (P < 0.00001), miR-10b was reduced 18-fold (P < 0.00001), miR-191 was reduced 20-fold (P = 0.001) and miR-126 was reduced 40-fold (P < 0.00001)) in tissues from SCO compared to normal fertile men. Using ISH, miR-202-5p was localized to Sertoli cells of men with normal spermatogenesis, but not in the Sertoli cells of men with SCO. Conclusion Number of miRNAs are differentially expressed in normal fertile men compared to men with SCO. MicroRNA-202-5p is localized to Sertoli cells and its expression dramatically differs between fertile men and men whose germ cells are depleted, suggesting a novel interaction for regulating microRNA expression between the somatic and germ cell components of the seminiferous epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Dabaja
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 East 68th St Starr 900, New York, NY 10065 USA
| | - Anna Mielnik
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 East 68th St Starr 900, New York, NY 10065 USA
| | - Brian D Robinson
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 East 68th St Starr 900, New York, NY 10065 USA ; Department of Pathology, Weill Cornell Medical College, 522 East 68th St. Starr 100, New York, NY 10065 USA
| | - Matthew S Wosnitzer
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 East 68th St Starr 900, New York, NY 10065 USA
| | - Peter N Schlegel
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 East 68th St Starr 900, New York, NY 10065 USA
| | - Darius A Paduch
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 East 68th St Starr 900, New York, NY 10065 USA
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39
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Abstract
microRNAs constitute a large family of approximately 21-nucleotide-long, noncoding RNAs. They emerged more than 20 years ago as key posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression. The regulatory role of these small RNA molecules has recently begun to be explored in the human reproductive system. microRNAs have been shown to play an important role in control of reproductive functions, especially in the processes of oocyte maturation, folliculogenesis, corpus luteum function, implantation, and early embryonic development. Knockout of Dicer, the cytoplasmic enzyme that cleaves the pre-miRNA to its mature form, results in postimplantation embryonic lethality in several animal models, attributing to these small RNA vital functions in reproduction and development. Another intriguing characteristic of microRNAs is their presence in body fluids in a remarkably stable form that is protected from endogenous RNase activity. In this chapter we will describe the current knowledge on microRNAs, specifically relating to human gonadal cells. We will focus on their role in the ovarian physiologic process and ovulation dysfunction, regulation of spermatogenesis and male fertility, and putative involvement in human normal and aberrant trophoblast differentiation and invasion through the process of placentation.
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Wang H, Graham I, Hastings R, Gunewardena S, Brinkmeier ML, Conn PM, Camper SA, Kumar TR. Gonadotrope-specific deletion of Dicer results in severely suppressed gonadotropins and fertility defects. J Biol Chem 2014; 290:2699-714. [PMID: 25525274 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.621565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Pituitary gonadotropins follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone are heterodimeric glycoproteins expressed in gonadotropes. They act on gonads and promote their development and functions including steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. Although transcriptional regulation of gonadotropin subunits has been well studied, the post-transcriptional regulation of gonadotropin subunits is not well understood. To test if microRNAs regulate the hormone-specific gonadotropin β subunits in vivo, we deleted Dicer in gonadotropes by a Cre-lox genetic approach. We found that many of the DICER-dependent microRNAs, predicted in silico to bind gonadotropin β subunit mRNAs, were suppressed in purified gonadotropes of mutant mice. Loss of DICER-dependent microRNAs in gonadotropes resulted in profound suppression of gonadotropin-β subunit proteins and, consequently, the heterodimeric hormone secretion. In addition to suppression of basal levels, interestingly, the post-gonadectomy-induced rise in pituitary gonadotropin synthesis and secretion were both abolished in mutants, indicating a defective gonadal negative feedback control. Furthermore, mutants lacking Dicer in gonadotropes displayed severely reduced fertility and were rescued with exogenous hormones confirming that the fertility defects were secondary to suppressed gonadotropins. Our studies reveal that DICER-dependent microRNAs are essential for gonadotropin homeostasis and fertility in mice. Our studies also implicate microRNAs in gonadal feedback control of gonadotropin synthesis and secretion. Thus, DICER-dependent microRNAs confer a new layer of transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation in gonadotropes to orchestrate the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huizhen Wang
- From the Departments of Molecular and Integrative Physiology
| | - Ian Graham
- From the Departments of Molecular and Integrative Physiology
| | - Richard Hastings
- Flow Cytometry Core Laboratory, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160
| | | | - Michelle L Brinkmeier
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, and
| | - P Michael Conn
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79430
| | - Sally A Camper
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, and
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- From the Departments of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Center for Reproductive Sciences, Institute for Reproductive Health and Regenerative Medicine, and
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Bao J, Tang C, Yuan S, Porse BT, Yan W. UPF2, a nonsense-mediated mRNA decay factor, is required for prepubertal Sertoli cell development and male fertility by ensuring fidelity of the transcriptome. Development 2014; 142:352-62. [PMID: 25503407 DOI: 10.1242/dev.115642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) represents a highly conserved RNA surveillance mechanism through which mRNA transcripts bearing premature termination codons (PTCs) are selectively degraded to maintain transcriptomic fidelity in the cell. Numerous in vitro studies have demonstrated the importance of the NMD pathway; however, evidence supporting its physiological necessity has only just started to emerge. Here, we report that ablation of Upf2, which encodes a core NMD factor, in murine embryonic Sertoli cells (SCs) leads to severe testicular atrophy and male sterility owing to rapid depletion of both SCs and germ cells during prepubertal testicular development. RNA-Seq and bioinformatic analyses revealed impaired transcriptomic homeostasis in SC-specific Upf2 knockout testes, characterized by an accumulation of PTC-containing transcripts and the transcriptome-wide dysregulation of genes encoding splicing factors and key proteins essential for SC fate control. Our data demonstrate an essential role of UPF2-mediated NMD in prepubertal SC development and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianqiang Bao
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, 1664 North Virginia Street, MS575, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Chong Tang
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, 1664 North Virginia Street, MS575, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, 1664 North Virginia Street, MS575, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Bo T Porse
- The Finsen Laboratory, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Jagtvej 124, Copenhagen, DK-2200, Denmark Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Jagtvej 124, Copenhagen, DK-2200, Denmark Danish Stem Cell Centre (DanStem), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, Copenhagen N DK2200, Denmark
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, 1664 North Virginia Street, MS575, Reno, NV 89557, USA
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Kasimanickam VR, Kasimanickam RK. Differential expression of microRNAs in sexually immature and mature canine testes. Theriogenology 2014; 83:394-398.e1. [PMID: 25459426 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Revised: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian testis exhibits spatiotemporal gene expression patterns that are essential for successful and continuous spermatogenesis. Although microRNAs (miRNAs) modify gene expression through translational repression and degradation of target messenger RNAs, the precise molecular mechanisms of these regulatory processes are unclear. We used canine miScript miRNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) Array technology to elucidate the repertoire of canine testis miRNAs and compared their expression patterns between sexually immature (prepubertal) and mature (adult) dog testes. Eighty-four well-characterized canine miRNAs were customized in this study. The data were analyzed by RT(2) Profiler PCR Array Data Analysis (version 3.5). Results identified upregulation of 32 and considerable downregulation of 12 miRNAs in adult dog testis. In conclusion, the two developmental stages had significantly different miRNAs expression patterns. The finding provides fundamental information of miRNAs which may help to elucidate their role in spermatogenesis and male infertility in this species. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to offer comparative profile of the miRNA transcriptome in prepubertal and adult canine testes using miRNA PCR array approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanmathy R Kasimanickam
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.
| | - Ramanathan K Kasimanickam
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
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Rebourcet D, O’Shaughnessy PJ, Monteiro A, Milne L, Cruickshanks L, Jeffrey N, Guillou F, Freeman TC, Mitchell RT, Smith LB. Sertoli cells maintain Leydig cell number and peritubular myoid cell activity in the adult mouse testis. PLoS One 2014; 9:e105687. [PMID: 25144714 PMCID: PMC4140823 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0105687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2014] [Accepted: 07/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The Sertoli cells are critical regulators of testis differentiation and development. In the adult, however, their known function is restricted largely to maintenance of spermatogenesis. To determine whether the Sertoli cells regulate other aspects of adult testis biology we have used a novel transgenic mouse model in which Amh-Cre induces expression of the receptor for Diphtheria toxin (iDTR) specifically within Sertoli cells. This causes controlled, cell-specific and acute ablation of the Sertoli cell population in the adult animal following Diphtheria toxin injection. Results show that Sertoli cell ablation leads to rapid loss of all germ cell populations. In addition, adult Leydig cell numbers decline by 75% with the remaining cells concentrated around the rete and in the sub-capsular region. In the absence of Sertoli cells, peritubular myoid cell activity is reduced but the cells retain an ability to exclude immune cells from the seminiferous tubules. These data demonstrate that, in addition to support of spermatogenesis, Sertoli cells are required in the adult testis both for retention of the normal adult Leydig cell population and for support of normal peritubular myoid cell function. This has implications for our understanding of male reproductive disorders and wider androgen-related conditions affecting male health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Rebourcet
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Peter J. O’Shaughnessy
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Garscube Campus, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ana Monteiro
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Garscube Campus, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Milne
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Lyndsey Cruickshanks
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Nathan Jeffrey
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Florian Guillou
- Station de Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, UMR 6073 INRA-CNRS-Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Tom C. Freeman
- The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Rod T. Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Lee B. Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Kotaja N. MicroRNAs and spermatogenesis. Fertil Steril 2014; 101:1552-62. [PMID: 24882619 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2014] [Revised: 03/26/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, male gametes are produced inside the testis by spermatogenesis, which has three phases: mitotic proliferation of spermatogonia, meiosis of spermatocytes, and haploid differentiation of spermatids. The genome of male germ cells is actively transcribed to produce phase-specific gene expression patterns. Male germ cells have a complex transcriptome. In addition to protein-coding messenger RNAs, many noncoding RNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs), are produced. The miRNAs are important regulators of gene expression. They function mainly post-transcriptionally to control the stability or translation of their target messenger RNAs. The miRNAs are expressed in a cell-specific manner during spermatogenesis to participate in the control of each step of male germ cell differentiation. Genetically modified mouse models have demonstrated the importance of miRNA pathways for normal spermatogenesis, and functional studies have been designed to dissect the roles of specific miRNAs in distinct cell types. Clinical studies have exploited the well-defined expression profiles of miRNAs, and human spermatozoal or seminal plasma miRNAs have been explored as potential biomarkers for male factor infertility. This review article discusses the current findings that support the central role of miRNAs in the regulation of spermatogenesis and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noora Kotaja
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
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45
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Yuan S, Ortogero N, Wu Q, Zheng H, Yan W. Murine follicular development requires oocyte DICER, but not DROSHA. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:39. [PMID: 24990804 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.119370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Both DICER and DROSHA are RNase III enzymes involved in the biogenesis of small noncoding RNAs. DROSHA cleaves the stem-loop portion of the primary miRNAs and produces precursor miRNAs in the nucleus, whereas DICER processes double-stranded RNA precursors into mature miRNAs and endogenous small interference RNAs in the cytoplasm. Selective inactivation of Dicer in growing oocytes of primary follicles leads to female infertility due to oocyte spindle defects. However, it remains unknown if oocyte Dicer expression in the fetal ovary is required for proper follicular development in the postnatal ovary. Moreover, the role of Drosha in folliculogenesis has never been investigated. Here, we report that conditional knockout of Dicer in prophase I oocytes of the fetal ovary led to compromised folliculogenesis, premature ovarian failure, and female infertility in the adult ovary, whereas selective inactivation of Drosha in oocytes of either the fetal or the developing ovary had no effects on normal folliculogenesis and female fertility in adulthood. Our data indicate that oocyte DICER expression in the fetal ovary is required, and oocyte DROSHA is dispensable, for postnatal follicular development and female fertility in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuiqiao Yuan
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada
| | - Nicole Ortogero
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada
| | - Qiuxia Wu
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada
| | - Huili Zheng
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada
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46
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van den Driesche S, Sharpe RM, Saunders PT, Mitchell RT. Regulation of the germ stem cell niche as the foundation for adult spermatogenesis: A role for miRNAs? Semin Cell Dev Biol 2014; 29:76-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Real FM, Sekido R, Lupiáñez DG, Lovell-Badge R, Jiménez R, Burgos M. A microRNA (mmu-miR-124) prevents Sox9 expression in developing mouse ovarian cells. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:78. [PMID: 23946534 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.110957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals, sex differentiation depends on gonad development, which is controlled by two groups of sex-determining genes that promote one gonadal sex and antagonize the opposite one. SOX9 plays a key role during testis development in all studied vertebrates, whereas it is kept inactive in the XX gonad at the critical time of sex determination, otherwise, ovary-to-testis gonadal sex reversal occurs. However, molecular mechanisms underlying repression of Sox9 at the beginning of ovarian development, as well as other important aspects of gonad organogenesis, remain largely unknown. Because there is indirect evidence that micro-RNAs (miRNA) are necessary for testicular function, the possible involvement of miRNAs in mammalian sex determination deserved further research. Using microarray technology, we have identified 22 miRNAs showing sex-specific expression in the developing gonads during the critical period of sex determination. Bioinformatics analyses led to the identification of miR-124 as the candidate gene for ovarian development. We knocked down or overexpressed miR-124 in primary gonadal cell cultures and observed that miR-124 is sufficient to induce the repression of both SOX9 translation and transcription in ovarian cells. Our results provide the first evidence of the involvement of a miRNA in the regulation of the gene controlling gonad development and sex determination. The miRNA microarray data reported here will help promote further research in this field, to unravel the role of other miRNAs in the genetic control of mammalian sex determination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca M Real
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad de Granada, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Granada, Spain
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48
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Wainwright EN, Jorgensen JS, Kim Y, Truong V, Bagheri-Fam S, Davidson T, Svingen T, Fernandez-Valverde SL, McClelland KS, Taft RJ, Harley VR, Koopman P, Wilhelm D. SOX9 regulates microRNA miR-202-5p/3p expression during mouse testis differentiation. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:34. [PMID: 23843232 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.110155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are important regulators of developmental gene expression, but their contribution to fetal gonad development is not well understood. We have identified the evolutionarily conserved gonadal microRNAs miR-202-5p and miR-202-3p as having a potential role in regulating mouse embryonic gonad differentiation. These microRNAs are expressed in a sexually dimorphic pattern as the primordial XY gonad differentiates into a testis, with strong expression in Sertoli cells. In vivo, ectopic expression of pri-miR-202 in XX gonads did not result in molecular changes to the ovarian determination pathway. Expression of the primary transcript of miR-202-5p/3p remained low in XY gonads in a conditional Sox9-null mouse model, suggesting that pri-miR-202 transcription is downstream of SOX9, a transcription factor that is both necessary and sufficient for male sex determination. We identified the pri-miR-202 promoter that is sufficient to drive expression in XY but not XX fetal gonads ex vivo. Mutation of SOX9 and SF1 binding sites reduced ex vivo transactivation of the pri-miR-202 promoter, demonstrating that pri-miR-202 may be a direct transcriptional target of SOX9/SF1 during testis differentiation. Our findings indicate that expression of the conserved gonad microRNA, miR-202-5p/3p, is downstream of the testis-determining factor SOX9, suggesting an early role in testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elanor N Wainwright
- Division of Molecular Genetics and Development, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Arcondéguy T, Lacazette E, Millevoi S, Prats H, Touriol C. VEGF-A mRNA processing, stability and translation: a paradigm for intricate regulation of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Nucleic Acids Res 2013; 41:7997-8010. [PMID: 23851566 PMCID: PMC3783158 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkt539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGF-A) is a potent secreted mitogen crucial for physiological and pathological angiogenesis. Post-transcriptional regulation of VEGF-A occurs at multiple levels. Firstly, alternative splicing gives rise to different transcript variants encoding diverse isoforms that exhibit distinct biological properties with regard to receptor binding and extra-cellular localization. Secondly, VEGF-A mRNA stability is regulated by effectors such as hypoxia or growth factors through the binding of stabilizing and destabilizing proteins at AU-rich elements located in the 3′-untranslated region. Thirdly, translation of VEGF-A mRNA is a controlled process involving alternative initiation codons, internal ribosome entry sites (IRESs), an upstream open reading frame (uORF), miRNA targeting and a riboswitch in the 3′ untranslated region. These different levels of regulation cooperate for the crucial fine-tuning of the expression of VEGF-A variants. This review will be focused on our current knowledge of the complex post-transcriptional regulatory switches that modulate the cellular VEGF-A level, a paradigmatic model of post-transcriptional regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Arcondéguy
- Inserm UMR1037, Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, CHU Rangueil, BP84225, 31432 Toulouse Cedex 4, France and Université Toulouse III Paul-Sabatier, 118 Route de Narbonne, 31400 Toulouse, France
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50
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Ro S, Ma HY, Park C, Ortogero N, Song R, Hennig GW, Zheng H, Lin YM, Moro L, Hsieh JT, Yan W. The mitochondrial genome encodes abundant small noncoding RNAs. Cell Res 2013; 23:759-74. [PMID: 23478297 DOI: 10.1038/cr.2013.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Small noncoding RNAs identified thus far are all encoded by the nuclear genome. Here, we report that the murine and human mitochondrial genomes encode thousands of small noncoding RNAs, which are predominantly derived from the sense transcripts of the mitochondrial genes (host genes), and we termed these small RNAs mitochondrial genome-encoded small RNAs (mitosRNAs). DICER inactivation affected, but did not completely abolish mitosRNA production. MitosRNAs appear to be products of currently unidentified mitochondrial ribonucleases. Overexpression of mitosRNAs enhanced expression levels of their host genes in vitro, and dysregulated mitosRNA expression was generally associated with aberrant mitochondrial gene expression in vivo. Our data demonstrate that in addition to 37 known mitochondrial genes, the mammalian mitochondrial genome also encodes abundant mitosRNAs, which may play an important regulatory role in the control of mitochondrial gene expression in the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungil Ro
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, NV 89557, USA
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