1
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Zhang G, Sun Y, Guan M, Liu M, Sun S. Single-cell and spatial transcriptomic investigation reveals the spatiotemporal specificity of the beta-defensin gene family during mouse sperm maturation. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:267. [PMID: 38745232 PMCID: PMC11092205 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01637-3] [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: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Low sperm motility is a significant contributor to male infertility. beta-defensins have been implicated in host defence and the acquisition of sperm motility; however, the regulatory mechanisms governing their gene expression patterns and functions remain poorly understood. In this study, we performed single-cell RNA and spatial transcriptome sequencing to investigate the cellular composition of testicular and epididymal tissues and examined their gene expression characteristics. In the epididymis, we found that epididymal epithelial cells display a region specificity of gene expression in different epididymal segments, including the beta-defensin family genes. In particular, Defb15, Defb18, Defb20, Defb25 and Defb48 are specific to the caput; Defb22, Defb23 and Defb26 to the corpus; Defb2 and Defb9 to the cauda of the epididymis. To confirm this, we performed mRNA fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) targeting certain exon region of beta-defensin genes, and found some of their expression matched the sequencing results and displayed a close connection with epididimosome marker gene Cd63. In addition, we paid attention to the Sertoli cells and Leydig cells in the testis, along with fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells in the epididymis, by demonstrating their gene expression profile and spatial information. Our study provides a single-cell and spatial landscape for analysing the gene expression characteristics of testicular and epididymal environments and has important implications for the study of spermatogenesis and sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuanchao Sun
- Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Minkai Guan
- Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | | | - Shiduo Sun
- Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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2
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Sun F, Desevin K, Fu Y, Parameswaran S, Mayall J, Rinaldi V, Krietenstein N, Manukyan A, Yin Q, Galan C, Yang CH, Shindyapina AV, Gladyshev VN, Garber M, Schjenken JE, Rando OJ. A single cell atlas of the mouse seminal vesicle. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.08.588538. [PMID: 38645090 PMCID: PMC11030459 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.08.588538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
During mammalian reproduction, sperm are delivered to the female reproductive tract bathed in a complex medium known as seminal fluid, which plays key roles in signaling to the female reproductive tract and in nourishing sperm for their onwards journey. Along with minor contributions from the prostate and the epididymis, the majority of seminal fluid is produced by a somewhat understudied organ known as the seminal vesicle. Here, we report the first single-cell RNA-seq atlas of the mouse seminal vesicle, generated using tissues obtained from 23 mice of varying ages, exposed to a range of dietary challenges. We define the transcriptome of the secretory cells in this tissue, identifying a relatively homogeneous population of the epithelial cells which are responsible for producing the majority of seminal fluid. We also define the immune cell populations - including large populations of macrophages, dendritic cells, T cells, and NKT cells - which have the potential to play roles in producing various immune mediators present in seminal plasma. Together, our data provide a resource for understanding the composition of an understudied reproductive tissue with potential implications for paternal control of offspring development and metabolism.
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3
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Mulhall JE, Trigg NA, Bernstein IR, Anderson AL, Murray HC, Sipilä P, Lord T, Schjenken JE, Nixon B, Skerrett-Byrne DA. Immortalized mouse caput epididymal epithelial (mECap18) cell line recapitulates the in-vivo environment. Proteomics 2024; 24:e2300253. [PMID: 37759396 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202300253] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Residing between the testes and the vas deferens, the epididymis is a highly convoluted tubule whose unique luminal microenvironment is crucial for the functional maturation of spermatozoa. This microenvironment is created by the combined secretory and resorptive activity of the lining epididymal epithelium, including the release of extracellular vesicles (epididymosomes), which encapsulate fertility modulating proteins and a myriad of small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) that are destined for delivery to recipient sperm cells. To enable investigation of this intercellular communication nexus, we have previously developed an immortalized mouse caput epididymal epithelial cell line (mECap18). Here, we describe the application of label-free mass spectrometry to characterize the mECap18 cell proteome and compare this to the proteome of native mouse caput epididymal epithelial cells. We report the identification of 5,313 mECap18 proteins, as many as 75.8% of which were also identified in caput epithelial cells wherein they mapped to broadly similar protein classification groupings. Furthermore, key pathways associated with protein synthesis (e.g., EIF2 signaling) and cellular protection in the male reproductive tract (e.g., sirtuin signaling) were enriched in both proteomes. This comparison supports the utility of the mECap18 cell line as a tractable in-vitro model for studying caput epididymal epithelial cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jess E Mulhall
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Natalie A Trigg
- Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Departments of Genetics and Pediatrics - Penn Epigenetics Institute, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, and Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ilana R Bernstein
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Amanda L Anderson
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Heather C Murray
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, New South Wales, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Petra Sipilä
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, and Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, Turku, Varsinais-Suomi, Finland
| | - Tessa Lord
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John E Schjenken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David A Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, New South Wales, Australia
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4
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Zhu P, Bi X, Su D, Li X, Chen B, Li J, Zhao L, Wang Y, Xu S, Wu X. Thiolutin, a selective NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor, attenuates cyclophosphamide-induced impairment of sperm and fertility in mice. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2024; 46:172-182. [PMID: 38174705 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2023.2298894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome has been implicated in male infertility. Our study aimed to investigate the therapeutic role of Thiolutin (THL), an inhibitor of the NLRP3 inflammasome, on oligoasthenospermia (OA) and to elucidate its mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Semen from 50 OA and 20 healthy males were analyzed to assess the sperm quality and levels of inflammatory markers. Their correlation was determined using Pearson's correlation coefficient. The BALB/c mice were intraperitoneal injected by cyclophosphamide at 60 mg/kg/day for five days to induce OA, followed by a two-week treatment with THL or L-carnitine. Reproductive organ size and H&E staining were determined to observe the organ and seminiferous tubule morphology. ELISA and western blotting were utilized to measure sex hormone levels, inflammatory markers, and NLRP3 inflammasome levels. Furthermore, male and female mice were co-housed to observe pregnancy success rates. RESULTS OA patients exhibited a decrease in sperm density and motility compared to healthy individuals, along with elevated levels of IL-1β, IL-18 and NLRP3 inflammasome. In vivo, THL ameliorated OA-induced atrophy of reproductive organs, hormonal imbalance, and improved sperm density, motility, spermatogenesis and pregnancy success rates with negligible adverse effects on weight or liver-kidney function. THL also demonstrated to be able to inhibit the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and associated proteins in OA mice. DISCUSSION THL can improve sperm quality and hormonal balance in OA mice through the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Thus, THL holds promising potential as a therapeutic agent for OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Zhu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xingyu Bi
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, Taiyuan, China
| | - Dan Su
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaoling Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, Taiyuan, China
| | - Bingbing Chen
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, Taiyuan, China
| | - Juhua Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, Taiyuan, China
| | - Lijiang Zhao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yaoqing Wang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, Taiyuan, China
| | - Suming Xu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xueqing Wu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, Taiyuan, China
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5
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Liu MM, Fan CQ, Zhang GL. A Single-Cell Landscape of Spermioteleosis in Mice and Pigs. Cells 2024; 13:563. [PMID: 38607002 PMCID: PMC11011153 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070563] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Spermatozoa acquired motility and matured in epididymis after production in the testis. However, there is still limited understanding of the specific characteristics of sperm development across different species. In this study, we employed a comprehensive approach to analyze cell compositions in both testicular and epididymal tissues, providing valuable insights into the changes occurring during meiosis and spermiogenesis in mouse and pig models. Additionally, we identified distinct gene expression signatures associated with various spermatogenic cell types. (2) Methods: To investigate the differences in spermatogenesis between mice and pigs, we constructed a single-cell RNA dataset. (3) Results: Our findings revealed notable differences in testicular cell clusters between these two species. Furthermore, distinct gene expression patterns were observed among epithelial cells from different regions of the epididymis. Interestingly, regional gene expression patterns were also identified within principal cell clusters of the mouse epididymis. Moreover, through analysing differentially expressed genes related to the epididymis in both mouse and pig models, we successfully identified potential marker genes associated with sperm development and maturation for each species studied. (4) Conclusions: This research presented a comprehensive single-cell landscape analysis of both testicular and epididymal tissues, shedding light on the intricate processes involved in spermatogenesis and sperm maturation, specifically within mouse and pig models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Guo-Liang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China; (M.-M.L.); (C.-Q.F.)
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6
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Liu MM, Feng XL, Qi C, Zhang SE, Zhang GL. The significance of single-cell transcriptome analysis in epididymis research. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1357370. [PMID: 38577504 PMCID: PMC10991796 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1357370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
As a crucial component of the male reproductive system, the epididymis plays multiple roles, including sperm storage and secretion of nutritive fluids for sperm development and maturation. The acquisition of fertilization capacity by sperm occurs during their transport through the epididymis. Compared with the testis, little has been realized about the importance of the epididymis. However, with the development of molecular biology and single-cell sequencing technology, the importance of the epididymis for male fertility should be reconsidered. Recent studies have revealed that different regions of the epididymis exhibit distinct functions and cell type compositions, which are likely determined by variations in gene expression patterns. In this research, we primarily focused on elucidating the cellular composition and region-specific gene expression patterns within different segments of the epididymis and provided detailed insights into epididymal function in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Meng Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xin-Lei Feng
- Animal Products Quality and Safety Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chao Qi
- Provincial Animal Husbandry Station of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shu-Er Zhang
- Provincial Animal Husbandry Station of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Guo-Liang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
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7
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Li Y, Li Q, Wu L, Wang H, Shi H, Yang C, Gu Y, Li J, Ji Z. SperMD: the expression atlas of sperm maturation. BMC Bioinformatics 2024; 25:29. [PMID: 38233783 PMCID: PMC10792849 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-024-05631-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The impairment of sperm maturation is one of the major pathogenic factors in male subfertility, a serious medical and social problem affecting millions of global couples. Regrettably, the existing research on sperm maturation is slow, limited, and fragmented, largely attributable to the lack of a global molecular view. To fill the data gap, we newly established a database, namely the Sperm Maturation Database (SperMD, http://bio-add.org/SperMD ). SperMD integrates heterogeneous multi-omics data (170 transcriptomes, 91 proteomes, and five human metabolomes) to illustrate the transcriptional, translational, and metabolic manifestations during the entire lifespan of sperm maturation. These data involve almost all crucial scenarios related to sperm maturation, including the tissue components of the epididymal microenvironment, cell constituents of tissues, different pathological states, and so on. To the best of our knowledge, SperMD could be one of the limited repositories that provide focused and comprehensive information on sperm maturation. Easy-to-use web services are also implemented to enhance the experience of data retrieval and molecular comparison between humans and mice. Furthermore, the manuscript illustrates an example application demonstrated to systematically characterize novel gene functions in sperm maturation. Nevertheless, SperMD undertakes the endeavor to integrate the islanding omics data, offering a panoramic molecular view of how the spermatozoa gain full reproductive abilities. It will serve as a valuable resource for the systematic exploration of sperm maturation and for prioritizing the biomarkers and targets for precise diagnosis and therapy of male subfertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Li
- School of Informatics, National Institute for Data Science in Health and Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Qianying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Lvying Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Haiyan Wang
- Shandong Epihealth Biotech Ltd., Yantai, China
| | - Hui Shi
- College of Life Science, Yantai University, Yantai, China
| | - Chenhui Yang
- School of Informatics, National Institute for Data Science in Health and Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yiqun Gu
- Institute of science and technology, National Health Commission, Beijing, China.
| | - Jianyuan Li
- Shandong Epihealth Biotech Ltd., Yantai, China.
- Institute of science and technology, National Health Commission, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhiliang Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
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8
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Sosnicki DM, Cohen R, Asano A, Nelson JL, Mukai C, Comizzoli P, Travis AJ. Segmental differentiation of the murine epididymis: identification of segment-specific, GM1-enriched vesicles and regulation by luminal fluid factors†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:864-877. [PMID: 37694824 PMCID: PMC10724454 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad120] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The murine epididymis has 10 distinct segments that provide the opportunity to identify compartmentalized cell physiological mechanisms underlying sperm maturation. However, despite the essential role of the epididymis in reproduction, remarkably little is known about segment-specific functions of this organ. Here, we investigate the dramatic segmental localization of the ganglioside GM1, a glycosphingolipid already known to play key roles in sperm capacitation and acrosome exocytosis. Frozen tissue sections of epididymides from adult mice were treated with the binding subunit of cholera toxin conjugated to AlexaFluor 488 to label GM1. We report that GM1-enriched vesicles were found exclusively in principal and clear cells of segment 2. These vesicles were also restricted to the lumen of segment 2 and did not appear to flow with the sperm into segment 3, within the limits of detection by confocal microscopy. Interestingly, this segment-specific presence was altered in several azoospermic mouse models and in wild-type mice after efferent duct ligation. These findings indicate that a lumicrine factor, itself dependent on spermatogenesis, controls this segmental differentiation. The RNA sequencing results confirmed global de-differentiation of the proximal epididymal segments in response to efferent duct ligation. Additionally, GM1 localization on the surface of the sperm head increased as sperm transit through segment 2 and have contact with the GM1-enriched vesicles. This is the first report of segment-specific vesicles and their role in enriching sperm with GM1, a glycosphingolipid known to be critical for sperm function, providing key insights into the segment-specific physiology and function of the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Sosnicki
- Cornell University, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Department of Reproductive Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Roy Cohen
- Cornell University, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Cornell University, Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Atsushi Asano
- University of Tsukuba, Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, Tsukuba, Japan
| | | | - Chinatsu Mukai
- Cornell University, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Department of Reproductive Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alexander J Travis
- Cornell University, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Cornell University, Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
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9
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Carvelli L, Hermo L, O’Flaherty C, Oko R, Pshezhetsky AV, Morales CR. Effects of Heparan sulfate acetyl-CoA: Alpha-glucosaminide N-acetyltransferase (HGSNAT) inactivation on the structure and function of epithelial and immune cells of the testis and epididymis and sperm parameters in adult mice. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292157. [PMID: 37756356 PMCID: PMC10529547 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Heparan sulfate (HS), an abundant component of the apical cell surface and basement membrane, belongs to the glycosaminoglycan family of carbohydrates covalently linked to proteins called heparan sulfate proteoglycans. After endocytosis, HS is degraded in the lysosome by several enzymes, including heparan-alpha-glucosaminide N-acetyltransferase (HGSNAT), and in its absence causes Mucopolysaccharidosis III type C (Sanfilippo type C). Since endocytosis occurs in epithelial cells of the testis and epididymis, we examined the morphological effects of Hgsnat inactivation in these organs. In the testis, Hgsnat knockout (Hgsnat-Geo) mice revealed statistically significant decrease in tubule and epithelial profile area of seminiferous tubules. Electron microscopy (EM) analysis revealed cross-sectional tubule profiles with normal and moderately to severely altered appearances. Abnormalities in Sertoli cells and blood-testis barrier and the absence of germ cells in some tubules were noted along with altered morphology of sperm, sperm motility parameters and a reduction in fertilization rates in vitro. Along with quantitatively increased epithelial and tubular profile areas in the epididymis, EM demonstrated significant accumulations of electrolucent lysosomes in the caput-cauda regions that were reactive for cathepsin D and prosaposin antibodies. Lysosomes with similar storage materials were also found in basal, clear and myoid cells. In the mid/basal region of the epithelium of caput-cauda regions of KO mice, large vacuolated cells, unreactive for cytokeratin 5, a basal cell marker, were identified morphologically as epididymal mononuclear phagocytes (eMPs). The cytoplasm of the eMPs was occupied by a gigantic lysosome suggesting an active role of these cells in removing debris from the epithelium. Some eMPs were found in proximity to T-lymphocytes, a feature of dendritic cells. Taken together, our results reveal that upon Hgsnat inactivation, morphological alterations occur to the testis affecting sperm morphology and motility parameters and abnormal lysosomes in epididymal epithelial cells, indicative of a lysosomal storage disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Carvelli
- IHEM-CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Louis Hermo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Cristian O’Flaherty
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Surgery (Urology Division), McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Richard Oko
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Alexey V. Pshezhetsky
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Sainte-Justine University Hospital Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Carlos R. Morales
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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10
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Zhao L, Zhao Y, Yao C, Dai Y, Li Z, Tang Y. MHA, an interactive website for scRNA-seq data of male genitourinary development and disease. Andrology 2023; 11:1157-1162. [PMID: 36710661 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of single-cell sequencing technology has expanded the understanding of cell heterogeneity and disease progression in the male genitourinary system. However, complex processing and unprofessional analytical annotations limit the daily use and widely sharing of published datasets. OBJECTIVES Single-cell sequencing data of male-specific tissues and organs. MATERIALS AND METHODS The data were downloaded from published studies and were processed based on the Seurat R package, including quality control, cell clustering, reduction and graph generation, and cell type annotation were differentiated by referring to the related paper or recognized cell markers. Input and visual results output through the Shiny package, which was loaded into the remote server. RESULTS The current version of the Male Health Atlas database includes two species (human and mouse), five male-specific tissues and organs (testis, epididymis, vas deferens, corpus cavernosum, and prostate), and eight major cell types, with a total of 57 samples and 258,428 single-cell profiles. The results were divided into two main parts: Cell Clustering and Gene Display. In Cell Clustering section, visitors are free to change cell dimensionality reduction (t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding, or uniform manifold approximation and projection), color palette, and annotation (cell type or sample type). The Gene Display section includes a reduced dimension scatter plot, violin plot, and bubble plot. Visitors can easily view the expression characteristics of single or multiple genes, and compare the expression differences between different cell types or groups. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Male Health Atlas is the first single-cell database website in the field of andrology and male reproduction, providing researchers with single-cell sequencing resources and an accessible tool. Male Health Atlas is freely available at http://malehealthatlas.cn/.
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Affiliation(s)
- LiangYu Zhao
- Department of Urology, Department of Interventional Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - YiFan Zhao
- The Sinotech Genomics CO. LTD, Shanghai, China
| | - ChenCheng Yao
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - YingBo Dai
- Department of Urology, Department of Interventional Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - YuXin Tang
- Department of Urology, Department of Interventional Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
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11
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Huang Q, Li J, Yu J. Distribution characteristics of mitochondria-rich segments in the epididymis. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 12:72-73. [PMID: 37736076 PMCID: PMC10509488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
The epididymis is a highly specialized tissue that plays vital roles in sperm maturation and storage. The spatio-temporal repertoire of epididymal cells and their gene expression in the epididymis remain less characterized. With the help of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), Shi et al., reveal a spatio- and segment-specific distribution pattern of mitochondria that adds another layer of complexity to our understanding of the epididymis. They unexpectedly find a higher abundance of mitochondria and mitochondrial transcription in the corpus and cauda compared to the caput of epididymis, which are believed to be responsible for providing the energy necessary for sperm maturation and motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuru Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Jiaxin Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, PR China
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Battistone MA, Elizagaray ML, Barrachina F, Ottino K, Mendelsohn AC, Breton S. Immunoregulatory mechanisms between epithelial clear cells and mononuclear phagocytes in the epididymis. Andrology 2023:10.1111/andr.13509. [PMID: 37572347 PMCID: PMC10859549 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION One of the most intriguing aspects of male reproductive physiology is the ability of the epididymis to prevent the mounting of immune responses against the onslaught of foreign antigens carried by spermatozoa while initiating very efficient immune responses versus stressors. Epithelial clear cells are strategically positioned to work in a concerted manner with region-specific heterogeneous subsets of mononuclear phagocytes to survey the epididymal barrier and regulate the balance between inflammation and immune tolerance in the post-testicular environment. OBJECTIVE This review aims to describe how clear cells communicate with mononuclear phagocytes to contribute to the unique immune environment in which sperm mature and are stored in the epididymis. MATERIALS/METHODS A comprehensive systematic review was performed. PubMed was searched for articles specific to clear cells, mononuclear phagocytes, and epididymis. Articles that did not specifically address the target material were excluded. RESULTS In this review, we discuss the unexpected roles of clear cells, including the transfer of new proteins to spermatozoa via extracellular vesicles and nanotubes as they transit along the epididymal tubule; and we summarize the immune phenotype, morphology, and antigen capturing, processing, and presenting abilities of mononuclear phagocytes. Moreover, we present the current knowledge of immunoregulatory mechanisms by which clear cells and mononuclear phagocytes may contribute to the immune-privileged environment optimal for sperm maturation and storage. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Notably, we provide an in-depth characterization of clear cell-mononuclear phagocyte communication networks in the steady-state epididymis and in the presence of injury. This review highlights crucial concepts of mucosal immunology and cellcell interactions, all of which are critical but understudied facets of human male reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- MA Battistone
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - ML Elizagaray
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - F Barrachina
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - K Ottino
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - AC Mendelsohn
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - S Breton
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Research Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec (Québec), Canada
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13
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Gao S, Chen Z, Shi J, Chen Z, Yun D, Li X, Wu X, Sun F. Sperm immotility is associated with epididymis metabolism disorder in mice under obstructive azoospermia. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23081. [PMID: 37410071 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201862rr] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Obstructive azoospermia (OA) accounts for approximately 40% of males who suffer from azoospermia of male infertility. Currently, available treatment for OA consists of reproductive tract surgical reconstruction and sperm retrieval from the testis. However, both treatments result in low fertility compared to normal pregnancy, and the main reason remains largely unknown. Previous studies have shown that the quality of sperm retrieved from OA patients is poor compared with normal adult males but without an in-depth study. Herein, we generated a mouse OA model with vasectomy to evaluate sperm quality systematically. Our results showed that the testis had normal spermatogenesis but increased apoptotic activity in both OA patients and mice. More importantly, epididymal morphology was abnormal, with swollen epididymal tubules and vacuole-like principal cells. Especially, sperm retrieved from the epididymis of OA mice showed poor motility and low fertilization ability in vitro. Using mass spectrometry in epididymal fluid, we found differences in the expression of key proteins for sperm maturation, such as Angiotensinogen (AGT), rhophilin-associated tail protein 1 (ROPN1), NPC intracellular cholesterol transporter 2 (NPC2), and prominin 1 (PROM1). Furthermore, our results demonstrated that AGT, secreted by epididymal principal cells, could regulate sperm motility by managing PKCα expression to modify sperm phosphorylation. In conclusion, our data evaluate sperm quality systematically in OA mice and contribute to the understanding between the sperm and epididymis, which may provide novel insight into treating male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Gao
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Zhengru Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Zifeng Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Damin Yun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xinyao Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology & Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
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Crossen MJ, Wilbourne J, Fogarty A, Zhao F. Epithelial and mesenchymal fate decisions in Wolffian duct development. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2023; 34:462-473. [PMID: 37330364 PMCID: PMC10524679 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2023.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Wolffian ducts (WDs) are the paired embryonic structures that give rise to internal male reproductive tract organs. WDs are initially formed in both sexes but have sex-specific fates during sexual differentiation. Understanding WD differentiation requires insights into the process of fate decisions of epithelial and mesenchymal cells, which are tightly coordinated by endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine signals. In this review, we discuss current advances in understanding the fate-decision process of WD epithelial and mesenchymal lineages from their initial formation at the embryonic stage to postnatal differentiation. Finally, we discuss aberrant cell differentiation in WD abnormalities and pathologies and identify opportunities for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- McKenna J Crossen
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Jillian Wilbourne
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Allyssa Fogarty
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Comparative Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Fei Zhao
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Comparative Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
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Sakashita A, Ooga M, Otsuka K, Maezawa S, Takeuchi C, Wakayama S, Wakayama T, Namekawa S. Polycomb protein SCML2 mediates paternal epigenetic inheritance through sperm chromatin. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:6668-6683. [PMID: 37283086 PMCID: PMC10359620 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm chromatin retains small amounts of histones, and chromatin states of sperm mirror gene expression programs of the next generation. However, it remains largely unknown how paternal epigenetic information is transmitted through sperm chromatin. Here, we present a novel mouse model of paternal epigenetic inheritance, in which deposition of Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) mediated-repressive H3K27me3 is attenuated in the paternal germline. By applying modified methods of assisted reproductive technology using testicular sperm, we rescued infertility of mice missing Polycomb protein SCML2, which regulates germline gene expression by establishing H3K27me3 on bivalent promoters with other active marks H3K4me2/3. We profiled epigenomic states (H3K27me3 and H3K4me3) of testicular sperm and epididymal sperm, demonstrating that the epididymal pattern of the sperm epigenome is already established in testicular sperm and that SCML2 is required for this process. In F1 males of X-linked Scml2-knockout mice, which have a wild-type genotype, gene expression is dysregulated in the male germline during spermiogenesis. These dysregulated genes are targets of SCML2-mediated H3K27me3 in F0 sperm. Further, dysregulation of gene expression was observed in the mutant-derived wild-type F1 preimplantation embryos. Together, we present functional evidence that the classic epigenetic regulator Polycomb mediates paternal epigenetic inheritance through sperm chromatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiko Sakashita
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH45229, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo160-8582, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ooga
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu400-8510, Japan
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, Davis, CA95616, USA
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa252-5201, Japan
| | - Kai Otsuka
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, Davis, CA95616, USA
| | - So Maezawa
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH45229, USA
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa252-5201, Japan
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Applied Biological Science, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba278-8510, Japan
| | - Chikara Takeuchi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo160-8582, Japan
| | - Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu400-8510, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu400-8510, Japan
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu400-8510, Japan
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH45229, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, Davis, CA95616, USA
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Wang X, Qiu F, Yu J, Zhou M, Zuo A, Xu X, Sun XY, Wang Z. Transcriptome profiling of the initial segment and proximal caput of mouse epididymis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1190890. [PMID: 37324270 PMCID: PMC10266198 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1190890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The proximal region of the mouse epididymis plays a pivotal role in sperm transport, sperm maturation, and male fertility. Several studies have focused on segment-dependent gene expression of the mouse epididymis through high-throughput sequencing without the precision of the microdissection. Methods and results Herein, we isolated the initial segment (IS) and proximal caput (P-caput) by physical microdissection using an Lcn9-cre; Rosa26tdTomato mouse model. We defined the transcriptome changes of caput epididymis by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), which identified 1,961 genes that were abundantly expressed in the IS and 1,739 genes that were prominently expressed in the P-caput. In addition, we found that many differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were predominantly or uniquely expressed in the epididymis and region-specific genes were highly associated with transport, secretion, sperm motility, fertilization, and male fertility. Conclusion Thus, this study provides an RNA-seq resource to identify region-specific genes in the caput epididymis. The epididymal-selective/specific genes are potential targets for male contraception and may provide new insights into understanding segment-specific epididymal microenvironment-mediated sperm transport, maturation, and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Fanyi Qiu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Junjie Yu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Meiyang Zhou
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Anjian Zuo
- Department of Bioinformatics, Wanhui Biomedicine Co., LTD., Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojiang Xu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Xiao-Yang Sun
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhengpin Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
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Zhuang J, Li X, Yao J, Sun X, Liu J, Nie H, Hu Y, Tu X, Liu H, Qin W, Xie Y. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals the local cell landscape in mouse epididymal initial segment during aging. Immun Ageing 2023; 20:21. [PMID: 37170325 PMCID: PMC10173474 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-023-00345-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Morphological and functional alterations in aging reproductive organs result in decreased male fertility. The epididymis functions as the transition region for post-testicular sperm maturation. And we have previously demonstrated that the epididymal initial segment (IS), a region of the reproductive tract essential for sperm maturation and capacitation, undergoes considerable histological changes and chronic immune activation in mice during aging. However, the local aging-associated cellular and molecular changes in the aged epididymal IS are poorly understood. RESULTS We conducted single-cell RNA sequencing analysis on the epididymal IS of young (3-month-old) and old (21-month-old) mice. In total, 10,027 cells from the epididymal IS tissues of young and old mice were obtained and annotated. The cell composition, including the expansion of a principal cell subtype and Ms4a4bHiMs4a6bHi T cells, changed with age. Aged principal cells displayed multiple functional gene expression changes associated with acrosome reaction and sperm maturation, suggesting an asynchronous process of sperm activation and maturation during epididymal transit. Meanwhile, aging-related altered pathways in immune cells, especially the "cell chemotaxis" in Cx3cr1Hi epididymal dendritic cells (eDCs), were identified. The monocyte-specific expression of chemokine Ccl8 increased with age in eDCs. And the aged epididymal IS showed increased inflammatory cell infiltration and cytokine secretion. Furthermore, cell-cell communication analysis indicated that age increased inflammatory signaling in the epididymal IS. CONCLUSION Contrary to the general pattern of lower immune responses in the male proximal genital tract, we revealed an inflammaging status in mouse epididymal initial segment. These findings will allow future studies to enable the delay of male reproductive aging via immune regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Zhuang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Xiangping Li
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jiahui Yao
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Xiangzhou Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jiumin Liu
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Hua Nie
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute, Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital, Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510600, China
| | - Yang Hu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute, Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital, Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510600, China
| | - Xiangan Tu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Huang Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute, Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital, Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510600, China.
| | - Weibing Qin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute, Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital, Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510600, China.
| | - Yun Xie
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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Li T, Wang H, Luo R, Shi H, Su M, Wu Y, Li Q, Ma K, Zhang Y, Ma Y. Identification and Functional Assignment of Genes Implicated in Sperm Maturation of Tibetan Sheep. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13091553. [PMID: 37174590 PMCID: PMC10177108 DOI: 10.3390/ani13091553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
While traveling through the epididymis, immature sheep spermatozoa undergo a sequence of processes that ultimately give them the capacity to swim and fertilize an egg. Different gene expression patterns may be found in the epididymal caput, corpus, and cauda, conferring variant or unique biological roles during epididymis development and sperm maturation. To search for candidate genes associated with ovine sperm maturation and assess their possible modulating mechanisms, we characterized gene expression in each epididymal segment derived from pre- and post-pubertal Tibetan sheep by RNA sequencing. Compared with pre-puberty, 7730 (3724 upregulated and 4006 downregulated), 7516 (3909 upregulated and 3607 downregulated), and 7586 (4115 elevated and 3471 downregulated) genes were found to be differentially expressed in the post-pubertal caput, corpus, and cauda epididymis, respectively, and real-time quantitative PCR verified the validity of the gathered expression patterns. Based on their functional annotations, most differential genes were assigned to the biological processes and pathways associated with cellular proliferation, differentiation, immune response, or metabolic activities. As for the post-pubertal epididymis, 2801, 197, and 186 genes were specifically expressed in the caput, corpus, and cauda, respectively. Functional annotation revealed that they were mainly enriched to various distinct biological processes associated with reproduction (including the caput binding of sperm to the zona pellucida; fertilization in the caput and corpus; and meiosis in the caput and cauda) and development (such as cell differentiation and developmental maturation in the caput; cell proliferation and metabolism in the corpus; and regulation of tube size and cell division/cell cycle in the cauda). Additionally, we focused on the identification of genes implicated in immunity and sperm maturation, and subsequent functional enrichment analysis revealed that immune-related genes mainly participated in the biological processes or pathways associated with the immune barrier (such as JAM3 and ITGA4/6/9) and immunosuppression (such as TGFB2, TGFBR1, TGFBR2, and SMAD3), thus protecting auto-immunogenic spermatozoa. Additionally, sperm maturation was mostly controlled by genes linked with cellular processes, including cell growth, proliferation, division, migration, morphogenesis, and junction. Altogether, these results suggest that most genes were differentially expressed in developmental epididymal regions to contribute to microenvironment development and sperm maturation. These findings help us better understand the epididymal biology, including sperm maturation pathways and functional differences between the epididymal regions in Tibetan sheep and other sheep breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taotao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Huihui Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Ruirui Luo
- Animal Husbandry, Pasture and Green Agriculture Institute, Gansu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Huibin Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Manchun Su
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Yi Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Qiao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Keyan Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Youji Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
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Peng J, Li H, Yang S, Zhang X, Li PZ, Nie X, Zhang L, Zhang Z. Individual variation in and lateral asymmetry of mouse epididymal draining lymph nodes. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 89:e13678. [PMID: 36648083 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Draining lymph nodes (LNs) are pivotal sites for maintaining tolerance to self-antigens as well as eliciting immune responses to exogenous antigens. The epididymis is a male reproductive organ with a unique local immune environment. Although mice are the most commonly used laboratory animals for immunology research, there are no detailed descriptions of the anatomical location and function of LNs that drain the epididymis. METHOD OF STUDY Evans blue labeling was utilized to explore lymphatic drainage of the epididymis in eight- to ten-week-old male C57BL/6 mice. We confirmed the lymphatic drainage of the epididymis in mice using the objective technique of carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE)-labeled cells. RESULTS By combined Evans blue labeling and fluorescent labeling, we found that 1) the patterns of epididymal LN drainage are highly heterogeneous between individual mice; 2) the leftside LNs participate in drainage more frequently than the right-side LNs; and 3) epididymal lymphatic drainage bypasses both the paraaortic and renal LNs in some mice. CONCLUSIONS These data highlighted the need to consider the individual variation in and lateral asymmetry of draining LNs when characterizing the regional immunology of the mouse epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Peng
- Andrology Center, Department of Urology, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Huixi Li
- Andrology Center, Department of Urology, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shaojun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuyuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Patrick Z Li
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohua Nie
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liguo Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhichao Zhang
- Andrology Center, Department of Urology, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
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20
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Topaloğlu U, Sağsöz H, Akbalik ME. Distribution of cytoskeletal proteins in the cat testis during the pre-pubertal and post-pubertal periods. Theriogenology 2023; 197:1-9. [PMID: 36462330 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cytoskeletal proteins not only define the shape of cells, but also have critical roles in their proliferation, migration and motility, as well as in the establishment and maintenance of tissue organization and integrity. Furthermore, these proteins influence the physiological processes of the male reproductive system and are found in the structure of some cells. This study aimed to determine differences between the pre- and post-pubertal periods for the localization and distribution of actin, desmin, vimentin and cytokeratin-18 in the testes, epididymides and ductus deferentes of Persian and Turkish Angora and Van cats, using immunohistochemistry. The study material was grouped as belonging to the pre-pubertal and post-pubertal periods. The tissue samples of both groups were subjected to routine histological processing and embedded in paraffin. Serial sections cut from the paraffin-embedded tissue blocks were immunohistochemically stained with the indirect streptavidin-biotin complex method. Immunohistochemical findings demonstrated that there was no difference between the pre- and post-pubertal periods for the staining intensity and distribution of the proteins actin, vimentin, desmin and cytokeratin-18 in Persian and Turkish Angora and Van cats. On the other hand, differences were detected between the pre- and post-pubertal periods for the cellular expression and localization of these proteins in the testes, epididymides and ductus deferentes. Thus, the study results suggest that, based on the expression of actin, desmin, vimentin and cytokeratin-18 in the testes, epididymides and ductus deferentes during both periods, these molecular factors could have a contributory role in the development of the male reproductive system and the regulation of its physiological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uğur Topaloğlu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Dicle University, Diyarbakır, 21280, Turkey.
| | - Hakan Sağsöz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Dicle University, Diyarbakır, 21280, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Erdem Akbalik
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Dicle University, Diyarbakır, 21280, Turkey
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21
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Barrachina F, Ottino K, Tu LJ, Soberman RJ, Brown D, Breton S, Battistone MA. CX3CR1 deficiency leads to impairment of immune surveillance in the epididymis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 80:15. [PMID: 36550225 PMCID: PMC9948740 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04664-w] [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: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mononuclear phagocytes (MPs) play an active role in the immunological homeostasis of the urogenital tract. In the epididymis, a finely tuned balance between tolerance to antigenic sperm and immune activation is required to maintain epididymal function while protecting sperm against pathogens and stressors. We previously characterized a subset of resident MPs that express the CX3CR1 receptor, emphasizing their role in antigen sampling and processing during sperm maturation and storage in the murine epididymis. Bacteria-associated epididymitis is the most common cause of intrascrotal inflammation and frequently leads to reproductive complications. Here, we examined whether the lack of functional CX3CR1 in homozygous mice (CX3CR1EGFP/EGFP, KO) alters the ability of MPs to initiate immune responses during epididymitis induced by LPS intravasal-epididymal injection. Confocal microscopy revealed that CX3CR1-deficient MPs located in the initial segments of the epididymis displayed fewer luminal-reaching membrane projections and impaired antigen capture activity. Moreover, flow cytometry showed a reduction of epididymal KO MPs with a monocytic phenotype under physiological conditions. In contrast, flow cytometry revealed an increase in the abundance of MPs with a monocytic signature in the distal epididymal segments after an LPS challenge. This was accompanied by the accumulation of CD103+ cells in the interstitium, and the prevention or attenuation of epithelial damage in the KO epididymis during epididymitis. Additionally, CX3CR1 deletion induced downregulation of Gja1 (connexin 43) expression in KO MPs. Together, our study provides evidence that MPs are gatekeepers of the immunological blood-epididymis barrier and reveal the role of the CX3CR1 receptor in epididymal mucosal homeostasis by inducing MP luminal protrusions and by regulating the monocyte population in the epididymis at steady state as well as upon infection. We also uncover the interaction between MPs and CD103+ dendritic cells, presumably through connexin 43, that enhance immune responses during epididymitis. Our study may lead to new diagnostics and therapies for male infertility and epididymitis by identifying immune mechanisms in the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Barrachina
- Program in Membrane Biology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - K Ottino
- Program in Membrane Biology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - L J Tu
- Program in Membrane Biology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - R J Soberman
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - D Brown
- Program in Membrane Biology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - S Breton
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Research Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - M A Battistone
- Program in Membrane Biology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA.
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA.
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22
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A male germ-cell-specific ribosome controls male fertility. Nature 2022; 612:725-731. [PMID: 36517592 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05508-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Ribosomes are highly sophisticated translation machines that have been demonstrated to be heterogeneous in the regulation of protein synthesis1,2. Male germ cell development involves complex translational regulation during sperm formation3. However, it remains unclear whether translation during sperm formation is performed by a specific ribosome. Here we report a ribosome with a specialized nascent polypeptide exit tunnel, RibosomeST, that is assembled with the male germ-cell-specific protein RPL39L, the paralogue of core ribosome (RibosomeCore) protein RPL39. Deletion of RibosomeST in mice causes defective sperm formation, resulting in substantially reduced fertility. Our comparison of single-particle cryo-electron microscopy structures of ribosomes from mouse kidneys and testes indicates that RibosomeST features a ribosomal polypeptide exit tunnel of distinct size and charge states compared with RibosomeCore. RibosomeST predominantly cotranslationally regulates the folding of a subset of male germ-cell-specific proteins that are essential for the formation of sperm. Moreover, we found that specialized functions of RibosomeST were not replaceable by RibosomeCore. Taken together, identification of this sperm-specific ribosome should greatly expand our understanding of ribosome function and tissue-specific regulation of protein expression pattern in mammals.
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23
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Girardet L, Cyr DG, Belleannée C. Arl13b controls basal cell stemness properties and Hedgehog signaling in the mouse epididymis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:556. [PMID: 36261680 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04570-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial cells orchestrate a series of intercellular signaling events in response to tissue damage. While the epididymis is composed of a pseudostratified epithelium that controls the acquisition of male fertility, the maintenance of its integrity in the context of tissue damage or inflammation remains largely unknown. Basal cells of the epididymis contain a primary cilium, an organelle that controls cellular differentiation in response to Hedgehog signaling cues. Hypothesizing its contribution to epithelial homeostasis, we knocked out the ciliary component ARL13B in keratin 5-positive basal cells. In this model, the reduced size of basal cell primary cilia was associated with impaired Hedgehog signaling and the loss of KRT5, KRT14, and P63 basal cell markers. When subjected to tissue injury, the epididymal epithelium from knock-out mice displayed imbalanced rates of cell proliferation/apoptosis and failed to properly regenerate in vivo. This response was associated with changes in the transcriptomic landscape related to immune response, cell differentiation, cell adhesion, and triggered severe hypoplasia of the epithelium. Together our results indicate that the ciliary GTPase, ARL13B, participates in the transduction of the Hedgehog signaling pathway to maintain basal cell stemness needed for tissue regeneration. These findings provide new insights into the role of basal cell primary cilia as safeguards of pseudostratified epithelia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Girardet
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Université du Québec, Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Clémence Belleannée
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, QC, Canada.
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24
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Gong J, Wang P, Liu JC, Li J, Zeng QX, Yang C, Li Y, Yu D, Cao D, Duan YG. Integrative Analysis of Small RNA and mRNA Expression Profiles Identifies Signatures Associated With Chronic Epididymitis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:883803. [PMID: 35634321 PMCID: PMC9130659 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.883803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic epididymitis (CE) refers to a long-lasting inflammatory condition of the epididymis, which is considered the most common site of intrascrotal inflammation and an important aetiological factor of male infertility. Recent studies demonstrate that small RNAs secreted from epididymal epithelium modulate embryo development and offspring phenotypes via sperm transmission, and the resulting modifications may lead to transgenerational inheritance. However, to date, the genome-wide analysis of small RNA together with the transcriptomic expression profiles of human epididymis and CE is still lacking. In this study, we facilitated next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics to comprehensively analyze the small RNA and mRNA in an integrative way and identified signatures associated with CE. Both of the small RNA and mRNA expression data demonstrated relatively larger molecular differences among the segmental region of the epididymides, including caput, corpus, and cauda, than that of the inflammatory conditions. By comparing the inflamed caputs to the controls, a total of 1727 genes (1220 upregulated and 507 downregulated; 42 most significant genes, adjusted P <0.05) and 34 miRNAs (23 upregulated and 11 downregulated) were identified as differentially expressed. In silico functional enrichment analysis showed their roles in regulating different biological activities, including leukocyte chemotaxis, extracellular milieu reconstruction, ion channel and transporter-related processes, and nervous system development. Integrative analysis of miRNA and mRNA identified a regulatory network consisting of 22 miRNAs and 31 genes (miRNA-mRNA) which are strong candidates for CE. In addition, analysis about other species of small RNA, including (miRNA), piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA), tRNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA), Y RNA, and rsRNA identified the distinct expression pattern of tsRNA in CE. In summary, our study performed small RNA and miRNA profiling and integrative analysis in human CE. The findings will help to understand the role of miRNA-mRNA in the pathogenesis of CE and provide molecular candidates for the development of potential biomarkers for human CE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialei Gong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jin-Chuan Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jianlin Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qun-Xiong Zeng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yanfeng Li
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Di Yu
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Dandan Cao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yong-Gang Duan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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25
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Quantitative proteomic dataset of mouse caput epididymal epithelial cells exposed to acrylamide in vivo. Data Brief 2022; 42:108032. [PMID: 35392627 PMCID: PMC8980551 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2022.108032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This article reports the proteomic legacy of in vivo exposure to the xenobiotic, acrylamide, on the epithelial cell population of the proximal segments of the mouse epididymis. Specifically, adult male mice were administered acrylamide (25 mg/kg bw/day) or vehicle control for five consecutive days before dissection of the epididymis. Epididymal epithelial cells were isolated from the proximal (caput) epididymal segment and subjected to quantitative proteomic analysis using multiplexed tandem mass tag (TMT) labeling coupled to mass spectrometry. Here, we report the data generated by this strategy, including the identification of 4405 caput epididymal epithelial cell proteins, approximately 6.8% of which displayed altered expression in response to acrylamide challenge. Our interpretation and discussion of these data features in the article “Acrylamide modulates the mouse epididymal proteome to drive alterations in the sperm small non-coding RNA profile and dysregulate embryo development”
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26
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Paranjapye A, Leir SH, Huang F, Kerschner JL, Harris A. Cell function and identity revealed by comparative scRNA-seq analysis in human nasal, bronchial and epididymis epithelia. Eur J Cell Biol 2022; 101:151231. [PMID: 35597096 PMCID: PMC9357053 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2022.151231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolutionary relationship of cells within tissues having a similar function but located in different anatomical sites is of considerable biological interest. The development of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) protocols has greatly enhanced opportunities to address this topic. Here we focus on cells in the epithelium which lines two regions of the human respiratory tract and the male genital ducts to delineate the shared, differentiated functions of the different cell populations. Transcriptomic data were used to assess the gene expression profiles of human bronchial, nasal, and epididymal epithelium (HBE, HNE, and HEE). Bulk RNA-seq showed many shared genes expressed in cells from the nasal and bronchial epithelium and highlighted their divergence from the epididymal epithelium. ScRNA-seq in HBE and HNE cells demonstrated overlapping gene expression patterns within basal and secretory cell populations. Moreover, the distribution of cell types was altered in HNE cells derived from donors with cystic fibrosis (CF) when compared to cells from healthy donors. Next, the HBE and HNE datasets were merged and confirmed intersection of cell type gene expression profiles from the two sites. However, secretory and ciliated cells were the most abundant types in the HBE samples, while more basal cells were seen in the HNE populations. We then merged single-cell data from the epididymis to determine if overlapping functions of these cells corresponded to those in the airway. Of note, only the pulmonary ionocytes/epididymis clear cells showed a strongly conserved identity, which was confirmed by imputation in bulk RNA-seq datasets from the same cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alekh Paranjapye
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, and Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Shih-Hsing Leir
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, and Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Felix Huang
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, and Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Jenny L Kerschner
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, and Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Ann Harris
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, and Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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27
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Xiao Y, Wen ZZ, Wu B, Zhu HX, Zhang AZ, Li JY, Gao JG. Deletion of Aldh4a1 Leads to Impaired Sperm Maturation in Mice. Mol Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s002689332204015x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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28
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Emont MP, Jacobs C, Essene AL, Pant D, Tenen D, Colleluori G, Di Vincenzo A, Jørgensen AM, Dashti H, Stefek A, McGonagle E, Strobel S, Laber S, Agrawal S, Westcott GP, Kar A, Veregge ML, Gulko A, Srinivasan H, Kramer Z, De Filippis E, Merkel E, Ducie J, Boyd CG, Gourash W, Courcoulas A, Lin SJ, Lee BT, Morris D, Tobias A, Khera AV, Claussnitzer M, Pers TH, Giordano A, Ashenberg O, Regev A, Tsai LT, Rosen ED. A single-cell atlas of human and mouse white adipose tissue. Nature 2022; 603:926-933. [PMID: 35296864 PMCID: PMC9504827 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-04518-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 121.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
White adipose tissue, once regarded as morphologically and functionally bland, is now recognized to be dynamic, plastic and heterogenous, and is involved in a wide array of biological processes including energy homeostasis, glucose and lipid handling, blood pressure control and host defence1. High-fat feeding and other metabolic stressors cause marked changes in adipose morphology, physiology and cellular composition1, and alterations in adiposity are associated with insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes2. Here we provide detailed cellular atlases of human and mouse subcutaneous and visceral white fat at single-cell resolution across a range of body weight. We identify subpopulations of adipocytes, adipose stem and progenitor cells, vascular and immune cells and demonstrate commonalities and differences across species and dietary conditions. We link specific cell types to increased risk of metabolic disease and provide an initial blueprint for a comprehensive set of interactions between individual cell types in the adipose niche in leanness and obesity. These data comprise an extensive resource for the exploration of genes, traits and cell types in the function of white adipose tissue across species, depots and nutritional conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margo P Emont
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Christopher Jacobs
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Adam L Essene
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Deepti Pant
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Danielle Tenen
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Georgia Colleluori
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Center of Obesity, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Angelica Di Vincenzo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Center of Obesity, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Anja M Jørgensen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hesam Dashti
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Adam Stefek
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Saaket Agrawal
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gregory P Westcott
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amrita Kar
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Molly L Veregge
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anton Gulko
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Harini Srinivasan
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Zachary Kramer
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eleanna De Filippis
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Mayo Clinic Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Erin Merkel
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer Ducie
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher G Boyd
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - William Gourash
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Anita Courcoulas
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Samuel J Lin
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bernard T Lee
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Donald Morris
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adam Tobias
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amit V Khera
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Melina Claussnitzer
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Diabetes Unit and Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tune H Pers
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Center of Obesity, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Orr Ashenberg
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Aviv Regev
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Koch Institute of Integrative Cancer Research, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Linus T Tsai
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Evan D Rosen
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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29
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Huang Y, Li X, Sun X, Yao J, Gao F, Wang Z, Hu J, Wang Z, Ouyang B, Tu X, Zou X, Liu W, Lu M, Deng C, Yang Q, Xie Y. Anatomical Transcriptome Atlas of the Male Mouse Reproductive System During Aging. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:782824. [PMID: 35211476 PMCID: PMC8861499 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.782824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The elderly males undergo degenerative fertility and testicular endocrine function that jeopardize the reproductive health and well-being. However, the mechanisms underlying reproductive aging are unclear. Here, we tried to address this by investigating the phenotypes and transcriptomes of seven regions of the male mouse reproductive tract: the testis, efferent ductules, initial segment, caput, corpus and cauda epididymidis, and vas deferens, in adult (3 months) and aged (21 months) mice. Quantitative PCR, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescent staining, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were performed for the analysis of gene expression in mice, human tissues, and semen samples. Aged male mice showed both systematic and reproductive changes, and remarkable histological changes were detected in the testis and proximal epididymis. Transcriptomes of the male reproductive tract were mapped, and a series of region-specific genes were identified and validated in mouse and/or human tissues, including Protamine 1 (Prm2), ADAM metallopeptidase domain 28 (Adam28), Ribonuclease A family member 13 (Rnase13), WAP four-disulfide core domain 13 (Wfdc13), and Wfdc9. Meanwhile, age-related transcriptome changes of different regions of the male reproductive tract were characterized. Notably, increased immune response was functionally related to the male reproductive aging, especially the T cell activation. An immune response-associated factor, phospholipase A2 group IID (Pla2g2d), was identified as a potential biomarker for reproductive aging in mice. And the PLA2G2D level in human seminal plasma surged at approximately 35 years of age. Furthermore, we highlighted Protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type C (Ptprc), Lymphocyte protein tyrosine kinase (Lck), Microtubule associated protein tau (Mapt), and Interferon induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeats 3 (Ifit3) as critical molecules in the aging of initial segment, caput, caput, and cauda epididymidis, respectively. This study provides an RNA-seq resource for the male reproductive system during aging in mice, and is expected to improve our understanding of male reproductive aging and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanping Huang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangping Li
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangzhou Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiahui Yao
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fengxin Gao
- Guangzhou Epibiotek Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenqing Wang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaying Hu
- Department of Ultrasonics, Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhu Wang
- Department of Ultrasonics, Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Ouyang
- Department of Andrology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangan Tu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuenong Zou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mujun Lu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunhua Deng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiyun Yang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun Xie
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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30
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Shum W, Zhang BL, Cao AS, Zhou X, Shi SM, Zhang ZY, Gu LY, Shi S. Calcium Homeostasis in the Epididymal Microenvironment: Is Extracellular Calcium a Cofactor for Matrix Gla Protein-Dependent Scavenging Regulated by Vitamins. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:827940. [PMID: 35252193 PMCID: PMC8893953 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.827940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In the male reproductive tract, the epididymis is an essential organ for sperm maturation, in which sperm cells acquire mobility and the ability to fertilize oocytes while being stored in a protective microenvironment. Epididymal function involves a specialized luminal microenvironment established by the epithelial cells of epididymal mucosa. Low-calcium concentration is a unique feature of this epididymal luminal microenvironment, its relevance and regulation are, however, incompletely understood. In the rat epididymis, the vitamin D-related calcium-dependent TRPV6-TMEM16A channel-coupler has been shown to be involved in fluid transport, and, in a spatially complementary manner, vitamin K2-related γ-glutamyl carboxylase (GGCX)-dependent carboxylation of matrix Gla protein (MGP) plays an essential role in promoting calcium-dependent protein aggregation. An SNP in the human GGCX gene has been associated with asthenozoospermia. In addition, bioinformatic analysis also suggests the involvement of a vitamin B6-axis in calcium-dependent MGP-mediated protein aggregation. These findings suggest that vitamins interact with calcium homeostasis in the epididymis to ensure proper sperm maturation and male fertility. This review article discusses the regulation mechanisms of calcium homeostasis in the epididymis, and the potential role of vitamin interactions on epididymal calcium homeostasis, especially the role of matrix calcium in the epididymal lumen as a cofactor for the carboxylated MGP-mediated scavenging function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winnie Shum
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Winnie Shum,
| | - Bao Li Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Reproduction and Development Institution, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Albert Shang Cao
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Su Meng Shi
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ze Yang Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lou Yi Gu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuo Shi
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
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31
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Harlan B, Park HG, Spektor R, Cummings B, Brenna JT, Soloway PD. Single-cell chromatin accessibility and lipid profiling reveals SCD1-dependent metabolic shift in adipocytes induced by bariatric surgery. PLoS One 2022; 16:e0261783. [PMID: 34972124 PMCID: PMC8719700 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity promotes type 2 diabetes and cardiometabolic pathologies. Vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) is used to treat obesity resulting in long-term weight loss and health improvements that precede weight loss; however, the mechanisms underlying the immediate benefits remain incompletely understood. Because adipose plays a crucial role in energy homeostasis and utilization, we hypothesized that VSG exerts its influences, in part, by modulating adipose functional states. We applied single-cell ATAC sequencing and lipid profiling to inguinal and epididymal adipose depots from mice that received sham surgery or VSG. We observed depot-specific cellular composition and chromatin accessibility patterns that were altered by VSG. Specifically, accessibility at Scd1, a fatty acid desaturase, was substantially reduced after VSG in mature adipocytes of inguinal but not epididymal depots. This was accompanied by reduced accumulation of SCD1-produced unsaturated fatty acids. Given these findings and reports that reductions in Scd1 attenuate obesity and insulin resistance our results suggest VSG exerts its beneficial effects through an inguinal depot-specific reduction of SCD1 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blaine Harlan
- Field of Genetics, Genomics, and Development, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Hui Gyu Park
- Dell Pediatric Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, United States of America
| | - Roman Spektor
- Field of Genetics, Genomics, and Development, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Bethany Cummings
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - J. Thomas Brenna
- Dell Pediatric Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, United States of America
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Paul D. Soloway
- Field of Genetics, Genomics, and Development, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Rowlison T, Comizzoli P. The Knowns and Unknowns about Epididymal Extracellular Vesicles in Different Animal Species. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2021; 6:e2101066. [PMID: 34816626 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202101066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Sperm maturation during epididymal transit is a long and complex process. Although the roles of epididymal extracellular vesicles (EVs) on sperm quality have been extensively studied in recent years, there are still a lot of unexplored areas and too few species that are studied. The objective of this review is to focus on the contribution of epididymal EVs through the apocrine secretion of key factors, including proteins and small RNAs. Furthermore, the authors explore the alterations in the content of these vesicles related to male fertility and the effects of environmental stressors, and how these factors vary across taxa. Last, potential applications are covered, and the next steps in that field of research are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tricia Rowlison
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
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Chen H, Alves MBR, Belleannée C. Contribution of epididymal epithelial cell functions to sperm epigenetic changes and the health of progeny. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:51-66. [PMID: 34618012 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatozoa acquire their motility and fertilizing abilities during their maturation through the epididymis. This process is controlled by epididymal epithelial cells that possess features adapted to sense and respond to their surrounding environment and to communicate with spermatozoa. During the past decade, new intercellular communication processes have been discovered, including the secretion and transport of molecules from the epithelium to spermatozoa via extracellular vesicles (EVs), as well as sensing of the intraluminal milieu by cellular extensions. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review addresses recent findings regarding epididymal epithelial cell features and interactions between spermatozoa and the epididymal epithelium as well as epigenetic modifications undergone by spermatozoa during transit through the epididymal microenvironment. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search was conducted in Pubmed with the keyword 'epididymis'. Results were filtered on original research articles published from 2009 to 2021 and written in the English language. One hundred fifteen original articles presenting recent advancements on the epididymis contribution to sperm maturation were selected. Some additional papers cited in the primary reference were also included. A special focus was given to higher mammalian species, particularly rodents, bovines and humans, that are the most studied in this field. OUTCOMES This review provides novel insights into the contribution of epididymal epithelium and EVs to post-testicular sperm maturation. First, new immune cell populations have been described in the epididymis, where they are proposed to play a role in protecting the environment surrounding sperm against infections or autoimmune responses. Second, novel epididymal cell extensions, including dendrites, axopodia and primary cilia, have been identified as sensors of the environment surrounding sperm. Third, new functions have been outlined for epididymal EVs, which modify the sperm epigenetic profile and participate in transgenerational epigenetic inheritance of paternal traits. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Although the majority of these findings result from studies in rodents, this fundamental research will ultimately improve our knowledge of human reproductive physiopathologies. Recent discoveries linking sperm epigenetic modifications with paternal environmental exposure and progeny outcome further stress the importance of advancing fundamental research on the epididymis. From this, new therapeutic options for infertile couples and better counseling strategies may arise to increase positive health outcomes in children conceived either naturally or with ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Clémence Belleannée
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
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Gong QQ, Wang X, Dou ZL, Zhang KY, Liu XG, Gao JG, Sun XY. A novel mouse line with epididymal initial segment-specific expression of Cre recombinase driven by the endogenous Lcn9 promoter. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254802. [PMID: 34310634 PMCID: PMC8312960 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa released from testes undergo a maturation process and acquire the capacity to fertilize ova through epididymal transit. The epididymis is divided into four regions, each with unique morphology, gene profile, luminal microenvironment and distinct function. To study the functions of relevant genes in the epididymal initial segment (IS), a novel IS-specific mouse model, Lcn9-Cre knock-in (KI) mouse line was generated via CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The TAG stop codon was replaced by a 2A-NLS-Cre cassette, resulting in the co-expression of Lcn9 and Cre recombinase. IS-specific Cre expression was first observed from postnatal day 17. Using the Rosa26tdTomato reporter mice, the Cre-mediated DNA recombination was detected exclusively in principal cells. The epididymal IS-specific Cre activity in vivo was further confirmed using Lcn9-Cre mice crossed with a mouse strain carrying Tsc1 floxed alleles (Tsc1flox/+). Cre expression did not affect either normal development or male fecundity. Different from any epididymis-specific Cre mice reported previously, the novel Lcn9-Cre mouse line can be used to introduce entire IS-specific conditional gene editing for gene functional study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian-qian Gong
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhi-lin Dou
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ke-yi Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiang-guo Liu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jian-gang Gao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao-yang Sun
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
- * E-mail:
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35
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van der Horst G, Kotzè S, O'Riain MJ, Muller N, Maree L. A possible highway system for the rapid delivery of sperm from the testis to the penis in the naked mole-rat, Heterocephalus glaber. J Morphol 2021; 282:1478-1498. [PMID: 34296784 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Gametogenesis is suppressed in most members of the eusocial naked mole-rat (NMR) colony, while the queen selects mainly one breeding male during her life span. Recently, it was reported that the NMR testicular organization seems to produce spermatozoa on demand after suppression of spermatogenesis during most of gestation. A Sertoli cell "pump" is then used to flush the spermatozoa into short tubuli recti and simplified rete testis to reach the excurrent duct system. We hypothesize that the components of this duct system are adapted for rapid delivery of spermatozoa to the penis and for numerous copulations with the queen. Therefore, the aim was to study the ultrastructure of the male NMR reproductive duct system using light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The NMR rete testis gives rise to six to eight efferent tubules joining the caput epididymis. The caput epididymis resembles that of other rodents but with less distinction in terms of histological zoning. The remainder of the epididymis is considerably reduced in length compared to other rodents. In contrast, the vas deferens epithelium is highly specialized in that a vast range of vesicles, often closely associated with the spermatozoa, were visible. The large ampulla is a factory for merocrine and apocrine secretions, producing even more diverse vesicles. The transitional epithelial cells of the bladder appear to secrete abundant mucous and the penis as well as its baculum is relatively small. We speculate that these modifications strongly suggest that the excurrent duct system has been simplified and adjusted to compensate for the absence of long maturation and storage of spermatozoa. We propose that these adaptations to the NMR reproductive tract are associated with a state of degenerative orthogenesis that was selected for due to the absence of sperm competition and apparently rapid delivery of spermatozoa from the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard van der Horst
- Department of Medical, Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Sanet Kotzè
- Division of Clinical Anatomy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, St. Kitts, West Indies
| | | | - Nolan Muller
- National Health Laboratory Services, Anatomical Pathology, Tygerberg Hospital, Parow, South Africa
| | - Liana Maree
- Department of Medical, Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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36
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Pinel L, Cyr DG. Self-renewal and differentiation of rat Epididymal basal cells using a novel in vitro organoid model. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:987-1001. [PMID: 34104939 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is composed of a pseudostratified epithelium comprised of various cell types. Studies have shown that rat basal cells share common properties with adult stem cells and begin to differentiate in vitro in response to fibroblast growth factor and 5α-dihydrotestosterone. The characterization of rat basal cells is therefore necessary to fully understand the role of these cells. The objectives of this study were to assess the ability of single basal cells to develop organoids and to assess their ability to self-renew and differentiate in vitro. We isolated basal cells from the rat epididymis and established 3-dimensional cell cultures from the basal and non-basal cell fractions. Organoids were formed by single adult epididymal basal cells. Organoids were dissociated into single basal cells which were able to reform new organoids, and were maintained over 10 generations. Long-term culture of organoids revealed that these cells could differentiated into cells expressing the principal cell markers aquaporin 9 and cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator. Electron microscopy demonstrated that organoids were comprised of several polarized cell types displaying microvilli and the ability to form tight junctions. Additionally, organoids could be formed by basal cells from either the proximal or distal region of the epididymis, and are able to secrete clusterin, a protein implicated in the maturation of spermatozoa. These data indicate that rat basal cells can be used to derive epididymal organoids, and further supports that notion that these may represent a stem cell population in the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie Pinel
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, University of Quebec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, University of Quebec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 1B7, Canada
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37
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Shi J, Fok KL, Dai P, Qiao F, Zhang M, Liu H, Sang M, Ye M, Liu Y, Zhou Y, Wang C, Sun F, Xie G, Chen H. Spatio-temporal landscape of mouse epididymal cells and specific mitochondria-rich segments defined by large-scale single-cell RNA-seq. Cell Discov 2021; 7:34. [PMID: 34001862 PMCID: PMC8129088 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-021-00260-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa acquire their fertilizing ability and forward motility during epididymal transit, suggesting the importance of the epididymis. Although the cell atlas of the epididymis was reported recently, the heterogeneity of the cells and the gene expression profile in the epididymal tube are still largely unknown. Considering single-cell RNA sequencing results, we thoroughly studied the cell composition, spatio-temporal differences in differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in epididymal segments and mitochondria throughout the epididymis with sufficient cell numbers. In total, 40,623 cells were detected and further clustered into 8 identified cell populations. Focused analyses revealed the subpopulations of principal cells, basal cells, clear/narrow cells, and halo/T cells. Notably, two subtypes of principal cells, the Prc7 and Prc8 subpopulations were enriched as stereocilia-like cells according to GO analysis. Further analysis demonstrated the spatially specific pattern of the DEGs in each cell cluster. Unexpectedly, the abundance of mitochondria and mitochondrial transcription (MT) was found to be higher in the corpus and cauda epididymis than in the caput epididymis by scRNA-seq, immunostaining, and qPCR validation. In addition, the spatio-temporal profile of the DEGs from the P42 and P56 epididymis, including transiting spermatozoa, was depicted. Overall, our study presented the single-cell transcriptome atlas of the mouse epididymis and revealed the novel distribution pattern of mitochondria and key genes that may be linked to sperm functionalities in the first wave and subsequent wave of sperm, providing a roadmap to be emulated in efforts to achieve sperm maturation regulation in the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianwu Shi
- grid.260483.b0000 0000 9530 8833Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019 China
| | - Kin Lam Fok
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Pengyuan Dai
- grid.260483.b0000 0000 9530 8833Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019 China
| | - Feng Qiao
- grid.260483.b0000 0000 9530 8833Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019 China
| | - Mengya Zhang
- grid.260483.b0000 0000 9530 8833Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019 China
| | - Huage Liu
- grid.260483.b0000 0000 9530 8833Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019 China
| | - Mengmeng Sang
- grid.260483.b0000 0000 9530 8833Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019 China
| | - Mei Ye
- grid.260483.b0000 0000 9530 8833Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019 China
| | - Yang Liu
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yiwen Zhou
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Chengniu Wang
- grid.260483.b0000 0000 9530 8833Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019 China
| | - Fei Sun
- grid.260483.b0000 0000 9530 8833Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019 China
| | - Gangcai Xie
- grid.260483.b0000 0000 9530 8833Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019 China
| | - Hao Chen
- grid.260483.b0000 0000 9530 8833Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019 China
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38
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Davis FM. Tunnel vision: Imaging the mouse epididymis in three-dimensions. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2021; 1868:119009. [PMID: 33716171 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.119009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Felicity M Davis
- EMBL Australia Node in Single Molecule Science, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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39
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Sheng Z, Gao N, Fan D, Wu N, Zhang Y, Han D, Zhang Y, Tan W, Wang P, An J. Zika virus disrupts the barrier structure and Absorption/Secretion functions of the epididymis in mice. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009211. [PMID: 33667230 PMCID: PMC7968736 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have demonstrated that Zika virus (ZIKV) damages testis and leads to infertility in mice; however, the infection in the epididymis, another important organ of male reproductive health, has gained less attention. Previously, we detected lesions in the epididymis in interferon type I and II receptor knockout male mice during ZIKV infection. Herein, the pathogenesis of ZIKV in the epididymis was further assessed in the infected mice after footpad inoculation. ZIKV efficiently replicated in the epididymis, and principal cells were susceptible to ZIKV. ZIKV infection disrupted the histomorphology of the epididymis, and the effects were characterized by a decrease in the thickness of the epithelial layer and an increase in the luminal diameter, especially at the proximal end. Significant inflammatory cell infiltration was observed in the epididymis accompanied by an increase in the levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-28. The expression of tight junction proteins was downregulated and associated with disordered arrangement of the junctions. Importantly, the expression levels of aquaporin 1 and lipocalin 8, indicators of the absorption and secretion functions of the epididymis, were markedly reduced, and the proteins were redistributed. These events synergistically altered the microenvironment for sperm maturation, disturbed sperm transport downstream, and may impact male reproductive health. Overall, these results provide new insights into the pathogenesis of the male reproductive damage caused by ZIKV infection and the possible contribution of epididymal injury into this process. Therefore, male fertility of the population in areas of ZIKV epidemic requires additional attention. Unlike other mosquito-transmitted flaviviruses, ZIKV can persistently replicate in the male reproductive system and is sexually transmitted. ZIKV infection was reported to damage testis. However, ZIKV-induced epididymal injury was not investigated in detail. Clinically, epididymitis is closely associated with male infertility. In this study, a mouse model was used to demonstrate that ZIKV causes histomorphological and functional changes in the epididymis, which may alter the microenvironment of sperm maturation and movement and finally lead to male infertility. Therefore, long-term investigation of male reproductive health may be needed in the areas of ZIKV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Sheng
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Na Gao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Dongying Fan
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Na Wu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingying Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Daishu Han
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Huadong Research Institute for Medicine and Biotechnics, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weilong Tan
- Huadong Research Institute for Medicine and Biotechnics, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Peigang Wang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (PW); (JA)
| | - Jing An
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (PW); (JA)
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40
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Sun YH, Wang A, Song C, Shankar G, Srivastava RK, Au KF, Li XZ. Single-molecule long-read sequencing reveals a conserved intact long RNA profile in sperm. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1361. [PMID: 33649327 PMCID: PMC7921563 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-21524-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm contributes diverse RNAs to the zygote. While sperm small RNAs have been shown to impact offspring phenotypes, our knowledge of the sperm transcriptome, especially the composition of long RNAs, has been limited by the lack of sensitive, high-throughput experimental techniques that can distinguish intact RNAs from fragmented RNAs, known to abound in sperm. Here, we integrate single-molecule long-read sequencing with short-read sequencing to detect sperm intact RNAs (spiRNAs). We identify 3440 spiRNA species in mice and 4100 in humans. The spiRNA profile consists of both mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs, is evolutionarily conserved between mice and humans, and displays an enrichment in mRNAs encoding for ribosome. In sum, we characterize the landscape of intact long RNAs in sperm, paving the way for future studies on their biogenesis and functions. Our experimental and bioinformatics approaches can be applied to other tissues and organisms to detect intact transcripts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu H Sun
- Center for RNA Biology: From Genome to Therapeutics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Anqi Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Chi Song
- College of Public Health, Division of Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA
| | - Goutham Shankar
- Center for RNA Biology: From Genome to Therapeutics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Rajesh K Srivastava
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Kin Fai Au
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
| | - Xin Zhiguo Li
- Center for RNA Biology: From Genome to Therapeutics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA.
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41
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Pleuger C, Silva EJR, Pilatz A, Bhushan S, Meinhardt A. Differential Immune Response to Infection and Acute Inflammation Along the Epididymis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:599594. [PMID: 33329594 PMCID: PMC7729520 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.599594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is a tubular structure connecting the vas deferens to the testis. This organ consists of three main regions—caput, corpus, and cauda—that face opposing immunological tasks. A means of combating invading pathogens is required in the distally located cauda, where there is a risk of ascending bacterial infections originating from the urethra. Meanwhile, immune tolerance is necessary at the caput, where spermatozoa with immunogenic neo-antigens originate from the testis. Consistently, when challenged with live bacteria or inflammatory stimuli, the cauda elicits a much stronger immune response and inflammatory-inflicted damage than the caput. At the cellular level, a role for diverse and strategically positioned mononuclear phagocytes is emerging. At the mechanistic level, differential expression of immunoprotective and immunomodulatory mediators has been detected between the three main regions of the epididymis. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge about region-specific immunological characteristics and unveil possible underlying mechanisms on cellular and molecular levels. Improved understanding of the different immunological microenvironments is the basis for an improved therapy and counseling of patients with epididymal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Pleuger
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Erick José Ramo Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, University Hospital, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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42
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Andrade AD, Almeida PGC, Mariani NAP, Freitas GA, Kushima H, Filadelpho AL, Spadella MA, Avellar MCW, Silva EJR. Lipopolysaccharide-induced epididymitis modifies the transcriptional profile of Wfdc genes in mice†. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:144-158. [PMID: 33034631 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Whey-acidic protein four-disulfide core domain (WFDC) genes display putative roles in innate immunity and fertility. In mice, a locus on chromosome 2 contains 5 and 11 Wfdc genes in its centromeric and telomeric subloci, respectively. Although Wfdc genes are highly expressed in the epididymis, their contributions to epididymal function remain elusive. Here, we investigated whether Wfdc genes are regulated in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced epididymitis, an inflammatory condition that impairs male fertility. We induced epididymitis in mice via (i) interstitial LPS injection into epididymal initial segment and (ii) intravasal LPS injection into the vas deferens towards cauda epididymis. Interstitial and intravasal LPS induced a differential upregulation of inflammatory mediators (interleukin 1 beta, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor, interferon gamma, and interleukin 10) in the initial segment and cauda epididymis within 72 h post-treatment. These changes were accompanied by a time-dependent endotoxin clearance from the epididymis. In the initial segment, interstitial LPS upregulated all centromeric (Slpi, Wfdc5, Wfdc12, Wfdc15a, and Wfdc15b) and five telomeric (Wfdc2, Wfdc3, Wfdc6b, Wfdc10, and Wfdc13) Wfdc transcripts at 24 and 72 h. In the cauda epididymis, intravasal LPS upregulated Wfdc5 and Wfdc2 transcripts at 24 h, followed by a downregulation of Wfdc15b and three telomeric (Wfdc6a, Wfdc11, and Wfdc16) gene transcripts at 72 h. Pharmacological inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B activation prevented LPS-induced upregulation of centromeric and telomeric Wfdc genes depending on the epididymal region. We show that LPS-induced inflammation differentially regulated the Wfdc locus in the proximal and distal epididymis, indicating region-specific roles for the Wfdc family in innate immune responses during epididymitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre D Andrade
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Priscila G C Almeida
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Noemia A P Mariani
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Geanne A Freitas
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Hélio Kushima
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - André L Filadelpho
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Christina W Avellar
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Erick J R Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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