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Zhang Z, Zhang Z, Liu S, Wei S, Wei L, Zhu X, Ding K, Liu Y. Protective effect of selenomethionine on rabbit testicular injury induced by Aflatoxin B1. Sci Total Environ 2024; 927:171973. [PMID: 38547995 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the alleviating effect of selenomethionine (SeMet) on aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-induced testicular injury in rabbits. Twenty-five 90-d-old rabbits were randomly divided into 5 groups (the control group, the AFB1 group, the 0.2 mg/kg SeMet + AFB1 group, the 0.4 mg/kg SeMet + AFB1 group and the 0.6 mg/kg SeMet + AFB1 group). After 1 d of the experiment, the SeMet-treated groups were fed 0.2 mg/kg SeMet, 0.4 mg/kg SeMet, or 0.6 mg/kg SeMet daily, and the remaining two groups were fed a normal diet for 30 d. On Day 31, all rabbits in the model group and the three treatment groups were fed 0.5 mg/kg AFB1 for 21 d. The levels of testosterone (T), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in rabbit plasma were detected. Rabbit semen was collected, and its quality was evaluated. Pathological changes in rabbit testes were observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The expression of related proteins in testicular tissue was detected by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and western blot (WB) analysis. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were used to detect oxidative stress-related indices and inflammatory factors in testicular tissue. The results showed that AFB1 can induce oxidative stress and inflammation to activate the p38/MSK/NF-κB signalling pathway, mediate apoptosis, inhibit the proliferation and differentiation of testicular cells, destroy the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and the normal structure of the testis, and reduce the content of sex hormones and semen quality. SeMet pretreatment significantly alleviated testicular injury oxidative stress, and the inflammatory response in rabbits. Thus, we demonstrated that SeMet restores AFB1-induced testicular toxicity by inhibiting the p38/MSK/NF-κB signalling pathway. In addition, in this study, 0.4 mg/kg SeMet had the most impactful effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhikai Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China
| | - Ziqiang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China
| | - Shiyang Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China
| | - Shixiao Wei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China
| | - Lan Wei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China
| | - Xuemin Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China
| | - Ke Ding
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China
| | - Yumei Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China.
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Ouyang KW, Wang TT, Wang H, Luo YX, Hu YF, Zheng XM, Ling Q, Wang KW, Xiong YW, Zhang J, Chang W, Zhang YF, Yuan Z, Li H, Gao L, Xu DX, Zhu HL, Yang L, Wang H. m6A-methylated Lonp1 drives mitochondrial proteostasis stress to induce testicular pyroptosis upon environmental cadmium exposure. Sci Total Environ 2024; 931:172938. [PMID: 38703850 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a widely distributed typical environmental pollutant and one of the most toxic heavy metals. It is well-known that environmental Cd causes testicular damage by inducing classic types of cell death such as cell apoptosis and necrosis. However, as a new type of cell death, the role and mechanism of pyroptosis in Cd-induced testicular injury remain unclear. In the current study, we used environmental Cd to generate a murine model with testicular injury and AIM2-dependent pyroptosis. Based on the model, we found that increased cytoplasmic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), activated mitochondrial proteostasis stress occurred in Cd-exposed testes. We used ethidium bromide to generate mtDNA-deficient testicular germ cells and further confirmed that increased cytoplasmic mtDNA promoted AIM2-dependent pyroptosis in Cd-exposed cells. Uracil-DNA glycosylase UNG1 overexpression indicated that environmental Cd blocked UNG-dependent repairment of damaged mtDNA to drive the process in which mtDNA releases to cytoplasm in the cells. Interestingly, we found that environmental Cd activated mitochondrial proteostasis stress by up-regulating protein expression of LONP1 in testes. Testicular specific LONP1-knockdown significantly reversed Cd-induced UNG1 protein degradation and AIM2-dependent pyroptosis in mouse testes. In addition, environmental Cd significantly enhanced the m6A modification of Lonp1 mRNA and its stability in testicular germ cells. Knockdown of IGF2BP1, a reader of m6A modification, reversed Cd-induced upregulation of LONP1 protein expression and pyroptosis activation in testicular germ cells. Collectively, environmental Cd induces m6A modification of Lonp1 mRNA to activate mitochondrial proteostasis stress, increase cytoplasmic mtDNA content, and trigger AIM2-dependent pyroptosis in mouse testes. These findings suggest that mitochondrial proteostasis stress is a potential target for the prevention of testicular injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kong-Wen Ouyang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Center of Prenatal Diagnosis, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Affiliated Women's Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
| | - Tian-Tian Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Department of Respiratory Medicine, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Hefei, Anhui 230000, China
| | - Ye-Xin Luo
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Yi-Fan Hu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Xin-Mei Zheng
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Qing Ling
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Kai-Wen Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Yong-Wei Xiong
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of The People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Wei Chang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Yu-Feng Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Zhi Yuan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Lan Gao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of The People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - De-Xiang Xu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of The People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Hua-Long Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of The People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Lan Yang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Center of Prenatal Diagnosis, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Affiliated Women's Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China.
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of The People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China.
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3
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Zhang Z, Wang Q, Gao X, Tang X, Xu H, Wang W, Lei X. Reproductive toxicity of cadmium stress in male animals. Toxicology 2024; 504:153787. [PMID: 38522818 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a common heavy metal pollutant in the environment, and the widespread use of products containing Cd compounds in industry has led to excessive levels in the environment, which enter the animal body through the food chain, thus seriously affecting the reproductive development of animals. Related studies have reported that Cd severely affects spermatogonia development and spermatogenesis in animals. In contrast, the reproductive toxicity of Cd in males and its mechanism of action have not been clarified. Therefore, this paper reviewed the toxic effects of Cd on germ cells, spermatogonia somatic cells and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG axis) of male animals and its toxic action mechanisms of oxidative stress, apoptosis and autophagy from the perspectives of cytology, genetics and neuroendocrinology. The effects of Cd stress on epigenetic modification of reproductive development in male animals were also analyzed. We hope to provide a reference for the in-depth study of the toxicity of Cd on male animal reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zikun Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Yan'an University, Yan'an, Shaanxi 716000, China; Yan'an Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration, Yan'an, China
| | - Qi Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Yan'an University, Yan'an, Shaanxi 716000, China; Yan'an Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration, Yan'an, China
| | - Xiaoge Gao
- College of Life Sciences, Yan'an University, Yan'an, Shaanxi 716000, China; Yan'an Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration, Yan'an, China
| | - Xu Tang
- College of Life Sciences, Yan'an University, Yan'an, Shaanxi 716000, China; Yan'an Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration, Yan'an, China
| | - Huan Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Yan'an University, Yan'an, Shaanxi 716000, China; Yan'an Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration, Yan'an, China
| | - Wenqiang Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Yan'an University, Yan'an, Shaanxi 716000, China; Yan'an Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration, Yan'an, China.
| | - Xin Lei
- College of Life Sciences, Yan'an University, Yan'an, Shaanxi 716000, China; Yan'an Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration, Yan'an, China.
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4
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Wanjari UR, Gopalakrishnan AV. Blood-testis barrier: a review on regulators in maintaining cell junction integrity between Sertoli cells. Cell Tissue Res 2024; 396:157-175. [PMID: 38564020 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-024-03894-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is formed adjacent to the seminiferous basement membrane. It is a distinct ultrastructure, partitioning testicular seminiferous epithelium into apical (adluminal) and basal compartments. It plays a vital role in developing and maturing spermatocytes into spermatozoa via reorganizing its structure. This enables the transportation of preleptotene spermatocytes across the BTB, from basal to adluminal compartments in the seminiferous tubules. Several bioactive peptides and biomolecules secreted by testicular cells regulate the BTB function and support spermatogenesis. These peptides activate various downstream signaling proteins and can also be the target themself, which could improve the diffusion of drugs across the BTB. The gap junction (GJ) and its coexisting junctions at the BTB maintain the immunological barrier integrity and can be the "gateway" during spermatocyte transition. These junctions are the possible route for toxicant entry, causing male reproductive dysfunction. Herein, we summarize the detailed mechanism of all the regulators playing an essential role in the maintenance of the BTB, which will help researchers to understand and find targets for drug delivery inside the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Tamil Nadu, Vellore, PIN 632014, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Tamil Nadu, Vellore, PIN 632014, India.
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5
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Cannarella R, Crafa A, Curto R, Condorelli RA, La Vignera S, Calogero AE. Obesity and male fertility disorders. Mol Aspects Med 2024; 97:101273. [PMID: 38593513 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2024.101273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Often associated with obesity, male infertility represents a widespread condition that challenges the wellbeing of the couple. In this article, we provide a comprehensive and critical analysis of studies exploring the association between obesity and male reproductive function, to evaluate the frequency of this association, and establish the effects of increased body weight on conventional and biofunctional sperm parameters and infertility. In an attempt to find possible molecular markers of infertility in obese male patients, the numerous mechanisms responsible for infertility in overweight/obese patients are reviewed in depth. These include obesity-related functional hypogonadism, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, chronic inflammation, adipokines, irisin, gut hormones, gut microbiome, and sperm transcriptome. According to meta-analytic evidence, excessive body weight negatively influences male reproductive health. This can occurr through a broad array of molecular mechanisms. Some of these are not yet fully understood and need to be further elucidated in the future. A better understanding of the effects of metabolic disorders on spermatogenesis and sperm fertilizing capacity is very useful for identifying new diagnostic markers and designing therapeutic strategies for better clinical management of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Andrea Crafa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Roberto Curto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosita A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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6
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Jerang M, Kumar R, Gurusubramanian G, Roy VK. Comparative expression and localization of visfatin, chemerin, and chemerin receptor proteins in a heat-stressed mouse testis. Tissue Cell 2024; 88:102374. [PMID: 38598873 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2024.102374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
The adipokines, visfatin, chemerin, and its receptor are expressed in the testis. It has also been shown that heat-stress alters the secretion and expression of other adipokines. Testicular heat-stress is now well known to cause the impairment in the testis. It has also been documented that heat-stress changes the expression of genes and proteins in the testis. To the best of our knowledge, the expression and localization of visfatin chemerin and its receptor have not been investigated in the heat-stressed testis. Therefore, the present study has investigated the expression and localization of these proteins in the heat-stressed testis. The expression of visfatin and chemerin and receptor exhibits a differential repossess against the heat stress. Visfatin expression was up-regulated while chemerin and chemerin receptor was down-regulated in the heat-stressed testis as shown by western blot analysis. The immunolocalization of visfatin and chemerin showed increased abundance in the seminiferous tubules of heat-stressed mice testis. Furthermore, abundance of visfatin, chemerin, and its receptor showed a decrease in abundance in the Leydig cells of heat-stressed testis. The decreased abundance of these proteins in the Leydig cells coincides with decreased 3β-HSD immunostaining along with decreased testosterone levels. These results suggest that heat-stress might decrease testosterone secretion by modulating visfatin and chemerin in the Leydig cells. The increased abundance of visfatin and chemerin in the primary spermatocytes, round spermatid, and multinucleated germ cells also coincides with increased immunostaining of active caspase-3. Moreover, expression of Bcl-2 was down-regulated, and expression of active caspase-3 and HSP70 were up-regulated along with increased oxidative stress in the heat-stressed testis, suggesting stimulated apoptosis. In conclusion, our results showed that visfatin, chemerin, and its receptor are differentially expressed in the testis under heat-stress and within the testis also it might differentially regulate testosterone biosynthesis in the Leydig cells and apoptosis in the seminiferous tubules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miti Jerang
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram 796004, India
| | - Rahul Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Motihari, Bihar 845401, India
| | | | - Vikas Kumar Roy
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram 796004, India.
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Chen Z, Chen Z, Gao S, Shi J, Li X, Sun F. PFOS exposure destroys the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) through PI3K/AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100846. [PMID: 38160586 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2023.100846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanesulfonate or perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), a type of perfluorinated compound, is mainly found in consumer products. Exposure to PFOS could cause male reproductive toxicity by causing injury to the blood-testis barrier (BTB). However, the specific mechanisms through which PFOS affects male reproduction remain unclear. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a vital protein kinase that is believed to be a central regulator of autophagy. In this study, we established in vivo and in vitro models to explore the effects of PFOS on the BTB, autophagy, and the regulatory role of the mTOR signaling pathway. Adult mice were developmentally exposed to 0, 0.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg/day PFOS for five weeks. Thereafter, their testicular morphology, sperm counts, serum testosterone, expression of BTB-related proteins, and autophagy-related proteins were evaluated. Additionally, TM4 cells (a mouse Sertoli cell line) were used to delineate the molecular mechanisms that mediate the effects of PFOS on BTB. Our results demonstrated that exposure to PFOS induced BTB injury and autophagy, as evidenced by increased expression of autophagy-related proteins, accumulation of autophagosomes, observed through representative electron micrographs, and decreased activity of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Moreover, treatment with chloroquine, an autophagy inhibitor, alleviated the effects of PFOS on the integrity of TM4 cells in the BTB and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Overall, this study highlights that exposure to PFOS destroys the integrity of the BTB through PI3K/AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zifeng Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Zhengru Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Sheng Gao
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xinyao Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China.
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Xiao Z, Liang J, Huang R, Chen D, Mei J, Deng J, Wang Z, Li L, Li Z, Xia H, Yang Y, Huang Y. Inhibition of miR-143-3p Restores Blood-Testis Barrier Function and Ameliorates Sertoli Cell Senescence. Cells 2024; 13:313. [PMID: 38391926 PMCID: PMC10887369 DOI: 10.3390/cells13040313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to the increasing trend of delayed childbirth, the age-related decline in male reproductive function has become a widely recognized issue. Sertoli cells (SCs) play a vital role in creating the necessary microenvironment for spermatogenesis in the testis. However, the mechanism underlying Sertoli cell aging is still unclear. In this study, senescent Sertoli cells showed a substantial upregulation of miR-143-3p expression. miR-143-3p was found to limit Sertoli cell proliferation, promote cellular senescence, and cause blood-testis barrier (BTB) dysfunction by targeting ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2 E3 (UBE2E3). Additionally, the TGF-β receptor inhibitor SB431542 showed potential in alleviating age-related BTB dysfunction, rescuing testicular atrophy, and reversing the reduction in germ cell numbers by negatively regulating miR-143-3p. These findings clarified the regulatory pathways underlying Sertoli cell senescence and suggested a promising therapeutic approach to restore BTB function, alleviate Sertoli cell senescence, and improve reproductive outcomes for individuals facing fertility challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyan Xiao
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Jinlian Liang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Rufei Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Derong Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Jiaxin Mei
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Jingxian Deng
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China;
| | - Zhaoyang Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Ziyi Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Huan Xia
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yadong Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Z.X.); (J.L.); (R.H.); (D.C.); (J.M.); (Z.W.); (L.L.); (Z.L.); (H.X.)
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
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Ma S, Wang L, Li S, Zhao S, Li F, Li X. Transcriptome and proteome analyses reveal the mechanisms involved in polystyrene nanoplastics disrupt spermatogenesis in mice. Environ Pollut 2024; 342:123086. [PMID: 38061432 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics have been demonstrated to be reproductively toxic to mammals. However, the mechanisms of nanoplastics induce reproductive damage in mammals, especially their effects on spermatogenesis, remain elusive. Herein, we explored the effects and underlying mechanisms of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) on the testicular development of male mice after 28 days of exposure, representing the first systematic study of PS-NPs-induced male reproductive injury by integrating histomorphology, transcriptomics and proteomics. PS-NPs decreased the sperm concentration, sperm motility, and disrupted the structure of the seminiferous tubules of the mice. Besides, transcriptome and proteome analyses revealed that PS-NPs disrupted spermatogenesis by inhibiting the transcription of Prm3/Tnp1/Aurkc/Mea1/Mettl14 and the expression of Pmfbp1/Ggn/Fsip2. Furthermore, PS-NPs enabled Hsd3b5 protein expression to reduce dihydrotestosterone levels, and affected sperm flagellar assembly by decreasing the expression of Dnah8/Tekt5/Rsph6a. Moreover, PS-NPs induced testicular cell apoptosis by up-regulating the expression of cathepsins (B/F/H). In addition, PS-NPs destroyed tight junctions by reducing the expression of the Claudin family (3/5/15). In conclusion, PS-NPs can disrupt spermatogenesis by altering the expression patterns of transcriptome and proteome, inducing testicular cell apoptosis and destroying tight junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Ma
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200436, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Veterinary and Biotechnology, Shanghai, 200436, China
| | - Lirui Wang
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200436, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Veterinary and Biotechnology, Shanghai, 200436, China
| | - Sisi Li
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200436, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Veterinary and Biotechnology, Shanghai, 200436, China
| | - Shurui Zhao
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200436, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Veterinary and Biotechnology, Shanghai, 200436, China
| | - Feiyu Li
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200436, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Veterinary and Biotechnology, Shanghai, 200436, China
| | - Xinhong Li
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200436, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Veterinary and Biotechnology, Shanghai, 200436, China.
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10
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Piechka A, Sparanese S, Witherspoon L, Hach F, Flannigan R. Molecular mechanisms of cellular dysfunction in testes from men with non-obstructive azoospermia. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:67-90. [PMID: 38110528 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00837-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Male factor infertility affects 50% of infertile couples worldwide; the most severe form, non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), affects 10-15% of infertile males. Treatment for individuals with NOA is limited to microsurgical sperm extraction paired with in vitro fertilization intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Unfortunately, spermatozoa are only retrieved in ~50% of patients, resulting in live birth rates of 21-46%. Regenerative therapies could provide a solution; however, understanding the cell-type-specific mechanisms of cellular dysfunction is a fundamental necessity to develop precision medicine strategies that could overcome these abnormalities and promote regeneration of spermatogenesis. A number of mechanisms of cellular dysfunction have been elucidated in NOA testicular cells. These mechanisms include abnormalities in both somatic cells and germ cells in NOA testes, such as somatic cell immaturity, aberrant growth factor signalling, increased inflammation, increased apoptosis and abnormal extracellular matrix regulation. Future cell-type-specific investigations in identifying modulators of cellular transcription and translation will be key to understanding upstream dysregulation, and these studies will require development of in vitro models to functionally interrogate spermatogenic niche dysfunction in both somatic and germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arina Piechka
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sydney Sparanese
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Luke Witherspoon
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Faraz Hach
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ryan Flannigan
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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11
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Munoz-Lopez C, Wong A, Lewis K, Bole R, Vij SC, Lundy SD. The Evolving Landscape of Male Varicocele Pathophysiology in the Era of Multi-Omics: A Narrative Review of the Current Literature. Biology (Basel) 2024; 13:80. [PMID: 38392299 PMCID: PMC10886418 DOI: 10.3390/biology13020080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Male-factor infertility is implicated in over half of the millions of cases of infertility worldwide, and varicoceles are the most common correctable cause of male-factor infertility. The pathophysiologic mechanism for varicoceles is complex and next-generation technologies offer promising insights into the molecular underpinnings of this condition. In this narrative review, we highlight historical and contemporary paradigms associated with varicoceles, with an emphasis on the biological underpinnings of this disease. Specifically, we review the literature describing the underlying causes of varicoceles, discuss the molecular and cellular mechanisms causing pathological changes in some (but not all) men, and highlight key articles regarding the next-generation analyses (e.g., transcriptome, epigenome, proteome, and microbiome) being applied to better understand the condition and its treatment. These data demonstrate an ongoing evolution of the knowledge of varicoceles and the potential for improved personalized care in the future for men with this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Munoz-Lopez
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Anne Wong
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Kieran Lewis
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Raevti Bole
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Sarah C Vij
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Scott D Lundy
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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12
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Zhang JY, Yu XJ, Li JJ, Xiao Y, Li GS, Yang F, Dong L. Cuproptosis mediates copper-induced testicular spermatogenic cell death. Asian J Androl 2024:00129336-990000000-00157. [PMID: 38284772 DOI: 10.4103/aja202383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Cuproptosis, a novel mechanism of programmed cell death, has not been fully explored in the context of spermatogenic cells. This study investigated the potential involvement of cuproptosis in spermatogenic cell death using a mouse model of copper overload. Sixty male Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice were randomly divided into four groups that received daily oral gavage with sodium chloride (control) or copper sulfate (CuSO4) at 50 mg kg-1, 100 mg kg-1, or 200 mg kg-1, for 42 consecutive days. Mice subjected to copper overload exhibited a disruption in copper homeostasis. Additionally, significant upregulated expression of key cuproptosis factors was accompanied by a significant rise in the rates of testicular tissue cell apoptosis. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed the presence of ferredoxin 1 (Fdx1) in Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and spermatogenic cells at various stages of testicular development, and the Fdx1-positive staining area was significantly increased in copper-overloaded mice. Mitochondrial dysfunction and decreased adenosine triphosphate levels were also observed, further implicating mitochondrial damage under cuproptosis. Further analyses revealed pathological lesions and blood-testis barrier destruction in the testicular tissue, accompanied by decreased sperm concentration and motility, in copper-overloaded mice. In summary, our results indicate that copper-overloaded mice exhibit copper homeostasis disorder in the testicular tissue and that cuproptosis participates in spermatogenic cell death. These findings provide novel insights into the pathogenic mechanisms underlying spermatogenic cell death and provide initial experimental evidence for the occurrence of cuproptosis in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Yi Zhang
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Xu-Jun Yu
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Jun-Jun Li
- Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, The Fifth People's Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yao Xiao
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Guang-Sen Li
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Department of Surgery, The Reproductive and Women-Children Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liang Dong
- Department of Surgery, The Reproductive and Women-Children Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610041, China
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13
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Thakur B, Hasooni LP, Gera R, Mitra S, Björndahl L, Darreh-Shori T. Presence of key cholinergic enzymes in human spermatozoa and seminal fluid†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:63-77. [PMID: 37741056 PMCID: PMC10790344 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the non-neuronal spermic cholinergic system, which may regulate sperm motility and the acrosome reaction initiation process. We investigated the presence of the key acetylcholine (ACh)-biosynthesizing enzyme, choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), and the acetylcholine-degrading enzymes, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and two ACh-receptors in human spermatozoa and seminal plasma. Fresh ejaculates were used for intra- and extracellular flow cytometric analysis of ChAT, AChE, BChE, and alpha-7-nicotinic and M1-muscarinic ACh-receptors in sperm. For determining the source of soluble enzymes, frozen seminal samples (n = 74) were selected on two bases: (1) from vasectomized (n = 37) and non-vasectomized (n = 37) subjects and (2) based on levels of alpha-glucosidase, fructose, or zinc to define sample subgroups with high or low fluid contribution from the epididymis and seminal vesicle, and prostate, respectively. Flow cytometric analyses revealed that ChAT was expressed intracellularly in essentially all spermatozoa. ChAT was also present in a readily membrane-detachable form at the extracellular membrane of at least 18% of the spermatozoa. These were also highly positive for intra- and extracellular BChE (>83%) and M1 (>84%) and α7 (>59%) ACh-receptors. Intriguingly, the sperm was negative for AChE. Analyses of seminal plasma revealed that spermatozoa and epididymides were major sources of soluble ChAT and BChE, whereas soluble AChE most likely originated from epididymides and seminal vesicles. Prostate had relatively minor contribution to the pool of the soluble enzymes in the seminal fluid. In conclusion, human spermatozoa exhibited a cholinergic phenotype and were one of the major sources of soluble ChAT and BChE in ejaculate. We also provide the first evidence for ChAT as an extracellularly membrane-anchored protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banita Thakur
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Laila Pamela Hasooni
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ruchi Gera
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sumonto Mitra
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Björndahl
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Taher Darreh-Shori
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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14
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Xiao X, Han Y, Li Q, Zheng D, Cheng CY, Ni Y. Exploring the evolving function of soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 in junction dynamics during spermatogenesis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1281812. [PMID: 38260159 PMCID: PMC10801026 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1281812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) is a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed on immune, endothelial, and epithelial cells. Its ectodomain can be proteolytically cleaved to release a circulating soluble form called sICAM-1. Clinical studies demonstrate sICAM-1 is upregulated in various diseases and associated with disease severity. Research has identified sICAM-1 as a regulator of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and spermatogenesis. Overexpression of sICAM-1 weakened the BTB in vitro and in vivo, downregulated junction proteins including N-cadherin, γ-catenin, and connexin 43, and caused germ cell loss. This contrasts with barrier-strengthening effects of membrane-bound ICAM-1. sICAM-1 may act as a molecular switch enabling germ cells to open BTB and Sertoli-germ cell adhesion for transport across the seminiferous epithelium. While the mechanism remains unclear, reduced SRC family kinase (SFK) signaling was observed following sICAM-1 overexpression. SRC promotes BTB protein endocytosis and degradation, influences cytoskeletal dynamics, and affects cell polarity. As sICAM-1 overexpression phenocopies SRC inhibition, SRC may operate downstream of sICAM-1 in regulating BTB dynamics and spermatogenesis. Investigating sICAM-1's structure-function regions and downstream targets will elucidate the molecular mechanisms of junction disruption. This knowledge could enable strategies targeting sICAM-1/SRC to modulate BTB permeability and treat male infertility or diseases involving endothelial/epithelial barrier dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Xiao
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
- Engineering Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yating Han
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qin Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dongwang Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - C. Yan Cheng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ya Ni
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
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15
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Yan Q, Li T, Zhang Y, Zhao X, Wang Q, Yuan L. Caveolin 1 Regulates the Tight Junctions between Sertoli Cells and Promotes the Integrity of Blood-Testis Barrier in Yak via the FAK/ERK Signaling Pathway. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:183. [PMID: 38254351 PMCID: PMC10812639 DOI: 10.3390/ani14020183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Yaks, a valuable livestock species endemic to China's Tibetan plateau, have a low reproductive rate. Cryptorchidism is believed to be one of the leading causes of infertility in male yaks. In this study, we compared the morphology of the normal testis of the yak with that of the cryptorchidism, and found dysplasia of the seminiferous tubules, impaired tightness of the Sertoli cells, and a disruption of the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in the cryptorchidism. Previous studies have shown that CAV1 significantly contributes to the regulation of cell tight junctions and spermatogenesis. Therefore, we hypothesize that CAV1 may play a regulatory role in tight junctions and BTB in Yaks Sertoli cells, thereby influencing the development of cryptorchidism. Additional analysis using immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting confirmed that CAV1 expression is up-regulated in yak cryptorchidism. CAV1 over-expression plasmids and small RNA interference sequences were then transfected in vitro into yak Sertoli cells. It was furthermore found that CAV1 has a positive regulatory effect on tight junctions and BTB integrity, and that this regulatory effect is achieved through the FAK/ERK signaling pathway. Taken together, our findings, the first application of CAV1 to yak cryptorchidism, provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of cell tight junctions and BTB. This paper suggests that CAV1 could be used as a potential therapeutic target for yak cryptorchidism and may provide insight for future investigations into the occurrence of cryptorchidism, the maintenance of a normal physiological environment for spermatogenesis and male reproductive physiology in the yak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu Yan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China; (Q.Y.); (T.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (Q.W.)
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Tianan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China; (Q.Y.); (T.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (Q.W.)
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China; (Q.Y.); (T.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (Q.W.)
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Xingxu Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China; (Q.Y.); (T.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (Q.W.)
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Qi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China; (Q.Y.); (T.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (Q.W.)
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Ligang Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China; (Q.Y.); (T.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (Q.W.)
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
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16
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Kiyozumi D. Expression of NELL2/NICOL-ROS1 lumicrine signaling-related molecules in the human male reproductive tract. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:3. [PMID: 38169386 PMCID: PMC10759339 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01175-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The maturation of spermatozoa is a regulated process, influenced by genes expressing essential secreted proteins in the proximal epididymis. Recent genetic studies in rodents have identified the non-sex steroidal molecular signals that regulate gene expression in the proximal epididymis. Germ cells in the testis secrete ligand proteins into the seminiferous tubule lumen The ligand proteins travel through the male reproductive tract lumen to the epididymis, where they bind to receptors, triggering the differentiation of the luminal epithelium for sperm maturation. It is, however, not fully unveiled if such a testis-epididymis trans-luminal signaling mechanism exists in other species, especially humans. In the present study, the rodent-type testis-epididymis trans-luminal signaling in the human male reproductive tract was evaluated in a step-by-step manner by analyzing testis and epididymis gene expression and signaling mediator protein function. There was a significant correlation between the epididymal expressions of mouse genes upregulated by the trans-luminal signaling and those of their human orthologs, as evaluated by the correlation coefficient of 0.604. The transcript expression of NELL2 and NICOL encoding putative ligand proteins was also observed in human testicular cells. In vitro experiments demonstrated that purified recombinant human NELL2 and NICOL formed a molecular complex with similar properties to rodent proteins, which was evaluated by a dissociation equilibrium constant of 110 nM. Recombinant human NELL2 also specifically bound to its putative receptor human ROS1 in vitro. Collectively, these findings suggest that the rodent-type testis-epididymis secreted signaling mechanism is also possible in the human male reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiji Kiyozumi
- Japan Science and Technology Agency, 7, Gobancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0076, Japan.
- Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan.
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17
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Jiang L, Yang F, Liao H, Chen W, Dai X, Peng C, Li Z, Wang H, Zhang T, Cao H. Molybdenum and cadmium cause blood-testis barrier dysfunction through ROS-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation in sheep. Sci Total Environ 2024; 906:167267. [PMID: 37741404 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
In this study, 24 healthy male sheep were divided into four groups: the control group, Mo group (45 mg Mo·kg-1·BW), Cd group (1 mg Cd·kg-1·BW), and Mo + Cd group (45 mg Mo·kg-1·BW + 1 mg Cd·kg-1·BW). The experiment was last for 50 d. The results showed that Mo and Cd co-exposure induced histopathological changes and ultrastructural damage, decreased the mRNA and protein expression levels of BTB (blood-testis barrier)-related factors (CX-43, ZO-1, OCLN) (P < 0.05) and the T-SOD and CAT activity (P < 0.05), increased the MDA content (P < 0.05) and the proinflammatory factors levels (P < 0.05) in sheep testes. Moreover, the results showed that a sharp decline in BTB-related factors and antioxidase activity, and a significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels (P < 0.05) and the expression levels of NLRP3 inflammasome-related factors (P < 0.05) in primary Sertoli cells (SCs) under Mo and Cd co-exposure. However, treatment with a ROS scavenger or NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors could relieve BTB damage and oxidative injury, reduce the production of ROS (P < 0.05) and decrease the level of inflammatory factors (P < 0.05). Overall, these results indicated that Mo and Cd co-exposure reduced BTB-related protein levels and promoted ROS production and inflammatory reactions by activating the ROS/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in sheep testes, which eventually induced reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Jiang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Fan Yang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Huan Liao
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Weiwei Chen
- Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Xueyan Dai
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Chengcheng Peng
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China; Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, 257 Liu-shi Road, Liuzhou 545005, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Zhiyuan Li
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Huating Wang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Huabin Cao
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, No. 1101 Zhimin Avenue, Economic and Technological Development District, Nanchang 330045, Jiangxi, PR China.
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18
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He Y, Yin R. The reproductive and transgenerational toxicity of microplastics and nanoplastics: A threat to mammalian fertility in both sexes. J Appl Toxicol 2024; 44:66-85. [PMID: 37382358 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are extensively distributed in the environment. However, a comprehensive review and in-depth discussion on the effects of MPs and NPs to reproductive capacity and transgenerational toxicity on mammals, especially on humans, is lacked. It is suggested that microplastics and nanoplastics could accumulate in mammalian reproductive organs and exert toxic effects on the reproductive system for both sexes. For males, the damage of microplastics consists of abnormal testicular and sperm structure, decreased sperm vitality, and endocrine disruption, which were caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis of testicular cells, autophagy, abnormal cytoskeleton, and abnormal hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis. For females, the damage of microplastics includes abnormal ovary and uterus structure and endocrine disruption, which were caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, granulosa cell apoptosis, hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis abnormalities, and tissue fibrosis. For transgenerational toxicity, premature mortality existed in the rodent offspring after maternal exposure to microplastics. Among the surviving offspring, metabolic disorders, reproductive dysfunction, immune, neurodevelopmental, and cognitive disorders were detected, and these events directly correlated with transgenerational translocation of MPs and NPs. Studies on human-derived cells or organoids demonstrated that transgenerational toxicity studies for both sexes are yet in the phase of exploring suitable experimental models, and more detailed research on the threat of MPs and NPs to human fertility is still urgently needed. Further studies will help assess the MPs and NPs threat to public fertility and reproductive health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchong He
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology of Jiangxi Provincial, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Ruocheng Yin
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
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Ding Y, Jiang X, Sun L, Sha Y, Xu Z, Sohail A, Liu G. Multiple-Pathway Synergy Alters Steroidogenesis and Spermatogenesis in Response to an Immunocastration Vaccine in Goat. Cells 2023; 13:6. [PMID: 38201210 PMCID: PMC10778245 DOI: 10.3390/cells13010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animal reproduction performance is crucial in husbandry. Immunocastrated animals serve as an ideal animal model for studying testicular function. During androgen suppression, the testis undergoes dramatic developmental and structural changes, including the inhibition of hormone secretion and spermatogenesis. METHODS To characterize this process, we investigated the effects of castration using a recombinant B2L and KISS1 DNA vaccine, and then identified functional genes in the testes of Yiling goats using RNA-seq and WGS. The experimental animals were divided into three groups: the PVAX-asd group (control), PBK-asd-immunized group, and surgically castrated group. RESULTS The results demonstrated that the administration of the recombinant PBK-asd vaccine in goats elicited a significant antibody response, and reduced serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), resulting in smaller scrotal circumferences and decreased sexual desire compared to the control group. In addition, RNA transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis of the testes revealed that the biological processes after immunocastration mainly focused on the regulation of cell matrix adhesion, histone acetylation, negative regulation of developmental processes, apoptosis, and activation of the complement system and the thrombin cascade reaction system. Then, we integrated the whole-genome sequencing and testis transcriptome, and identified several candidate genes (FGF9, FST, KIT, TH, TCP1, PLEKHA1, TMEM119, ESR1, TIPARP, LEP) that influence steroidogenesis secretion and spermatogenesis. CONCLUSIONS Multiple pathways and polygenic co-expression participate in the response to castration vaccines, altering hormone secretion and spermatogenesis. Taken together, our atlas of the immunocastration goat testis provides multiple insights into the developmental changes and key factors accompanying androgen suppression, and thus may contribute to understanding the genetic mechanism of testis function. Joint analysis of whole genome sequencing and RNA-seq enables reliable screening of candidate genes, benefiting future genome-assisted breeding of goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ding
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Key Laboratory of Smart Farming for Agricultural Animals, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Laboratory of Small Ruminant Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Xunping Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Key Laboratory of Smart Farming for Agricultural Animals, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Laboratory of Small Ruminant Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Ling Sun
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Key Laboratory of Smart Farming for Agricultural Animals, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Laboratory of Small Ruminant Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yiyu Sha
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Key Laboratory of Smart Farming for Agricultural Animals, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Laboratory of Small Ruminant Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Zhan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Key Laboratory of Smart Farming for Agricultural Animals, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Laboratory of Small Ruminant Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Ahmed Sohail
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Key Laboratory of Smart Farming for Agricultural Animals, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Laboratory of Small Ruminant Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Guiqiong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Key Laboratory of Smart Farming for Agricultural Animals, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Laboratory of Small Ruminant Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
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Meng F, Hao H, Guo Z, Liu W, Zhang S, Tang W, Ma W, Shang X. Silica nanoparticles induces sperm granuloma formation and blood-epididymal barrier disruption via the p38 MAPK pathway in mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 182:114113. [PMID: 37890760 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.114113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Previous researches have demonstrated that the silica nanoparticles (SiNPs), which are widely used in all aspects of life, are hazardous to the male reproductive system. However, the cellular and molecular mechanism underlying SiNPs toxicity to the epididymis remain unclear. In this present study, a total of 60 male mice were separated into 4 groups and then treated to SiNPs for 7 consecutive days at a dose of 0, 2.5, 10, and 20 mg/kg body weight. The results showed that SiNPs could alter the histological structure of epididymis and induce sperm granuloma formation, leading to decreased sperm quality and quantity. In addition, the ultrastructure and permeability of blood-epididymal barrier (BEB) were impaired after exposure to SiNPs, and a significant downregulation of integral membrane proteins at the BEB was detected. SiNPs were also found to raise the percentage of macrophages in the epithelium and interstitium of the epididymis, followed by increased expression of pro-inflammatory molecules including TNF α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Meanwhile, SiNPs induced oxidative stress in epididymis, as shown by the markedly elevated generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and upregulated activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). Further study showed that SiNPs activated the p38 MAPK signaling pathway, which accelerated clathrin-mediated endocytosis of integral membrane proteins and perturb vesicular trafficking. Taken together, exposure to SiNPs could induce sperm granuloma formation and impair the integrity of BEB in mice through activating the p38 MAPK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangyu Meng
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China
| | - Huiyu Hao
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China
| | - Zhiyi Guo
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China; Tangshan Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Genetic Information, PR China
| | - Wenpeng Liu
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China
| | - Shumin Zhang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China
| | - Wenxuan Tang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China
| | - Wendong Ma
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China
| | - Xuan Shang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, PR China; Tangshan Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Genetic Information, PR China.
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Cao KX, Deng ZC, Liu M, Huang YX, Yang JC, Sun LH. Heat Stress Impairs Male Reproductive System with Potential Disruption of Retinol Metabolism and Microbial Balance in the Testis of Mice. J Nutr 2023; 153:3373-3381. [PMID: 37923224 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heat stress (HS) has a harmful impact on the male reproductive system, primarily by reducing the sperm quality. The testicular microenvironment plays an important role in sperm quality. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore the underlying mechanism by which HS impairs the male reproductive system through the testicular microenvironment. METHODS Ten-week-old male mice (n = 8 mice/group) were maintained at a normal temperature (25°C, control) or subjected to HS (38°C for 2 h each day, HS) for 2 wk. The epididymides and testes were collected at week 2 to determine sperm quality, histopathology, retinol concentration, the expression of retinol metabolism-related genes, and the testicular microbiome. The testicular microbiome profiles were analyzed using biostatistics and bioinformatics; other data were analyzed using a 2-sided Student's t test. RESULTS Compared with the control, HS reduced (P < 0.05) sperm count (42.4%) and motility (97.7%) and disrupted the integrity of the blood-testis barrier. Testicular microbial profiling analysis revealed that HS increased the abundance of the genera Asticcacaulis, Enhydrobacter, and Stenotrophomonas (P < 0.05) and decreased the abundance of the genera Enterococcus and Pleomorphomonas (P < 0.05). Notably, the abundance of Asticcacaulis spp. showed a significant negative correlation with sperm count (P < 0.001) and sperm motility (P < 0.001). Moreover, Asticcacaulis spp. correlated significantly with most blood differential metabolites, particularly retinol (P < 0.05). Compared with the control, HS increased serum retinol concentrations (25.3%) but decreased the testis retinol concentration by 23.7%. Meanwhile, HS downregulated (P < 0.05) the expression of 2 genes (STRA6 and RDH10) and a protein (RDH10) involved in retinol metabolism by 27.3%-36.6% in the testis compared with the control. CONCLUSIONS HS reduced sperm quality, mainly because of an imbalance in the testicular microenvironment potentially caused by an increase in Asticcacaulis spp. and disturbed retinol metabolism. These findings may offer new strategies for improving male reproductive capacity under HS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Xin Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhang-Chao Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Meng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yu-Xuan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jia-Cheng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Lv-Hui Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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Su Z, Diao T, McGuire H, Yao C, Yang L, Bao G, Xu X, He B, Zheng Y. Nanomaterials Solutions for Contraception: Concerns, Advances, and Prospects. ACS Nano 2023; 17:20753-20775. [PMID: 37856253 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c04366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Preventing unintentional pregnancy is one of the goals of a global public health policy to minimize effects on individuals, families, and society. Various contraceptive formulations with high effectiveness and acceptance, including intrauterine devices, hormonal patches for females, and condoms and vasectomy for males, have been developed and adopted over the last decades. However, distinct breakthroughs of contraceptive techniques have not yet been achieved, while the associated long-term adverse effects are insurmountable, such as endocrine system disorder along with hormone administration, invasive ligation, and slowly restored fertility after removal of intrauterine devices. Spurred by developments of nanomaterials and bionanotechnologies, advanced contraceptives could be fulfilled via nanomaterial solutions with much safer and more controllable and effective approaches to meet various and specific needs for women and men at different reproductive stages. Nanomedicine techniques have been extended to develop contraceptive methods, such as the targeted drug delivery and controlled release of hormone using nanocarriers for females and physical stimulation assisted vasectomy using functional nanomaterials via photothermal treatment or magnetic hyperthermia for males. Nanomaterial solutions for advanced contraceptives offer significantly improved biosafety, noninvasive administration, and controllable reversibility. This review summarizes the nanomaterial solutions to female and male contraceptives including the working mechanisms, clinical concerns, and their merits and demerits. This work also reviewed the nanomaterials that have been adopted in contraceptive applications. In addition, we further discuss safety considerations and future perspectives of nanomaterials in nanostrategy development for next-generation contraceptives. We expect that nanomaterials would potentially replace conventional materials for contraception in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenning Su
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Tian Diao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Helen McGuire
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Cancan Yao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lijun Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Guo Bao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaoxue Xu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Kumamoto NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Bin He
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yufeng Zheng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- International Research Organization for Advanced Science and Technology, Kumamoto University, 2-39-1 Kurokami, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto 860-8555, Japan
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Feng Y, Wu J, Lei R, Zhang Y, Qiao M, Zhou J, Xu Z, Li Z, Sun H, Peng X, Mei S. N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine Ameliorates BPAF-Induced Porcine Sertoli Cell Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest via Inhibiting the ROS Level. Toxics 2023; 11:923. [PMID: 37999575 PMCID: PMC10675769 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11110923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol AF (BPAF) is a newly identified contaminant in the environment that has been linked to impairment of the male reproductive system. However, only a few studies have systematically studied the mechanisms underlying BPAF-induced toxicity in testicular Sertoli cells. Hence, this study primarily aims to explore the toxic mechanism of BPAF on the porcine Sertoli cell line (ST cells). The effects of various concentrations of BPAF on ST cell viability and cytotoxicity were evaluated using the Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. The results demonstrated that exposure to a high concentration of BPAF (above 50 μM) significantly inhibited ST cell viability due to marked cytotoxicity. Flow cytometry analysis further confirmed that BPAF facilitated apoptosis and induced cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase. Moreover, BPAF exposure upregulated the expression of pro-apoptotic markers BAD and BAX while downregulating anti-apoptotic and cell proliferation markers BCL-2, PCNA, CDK2, and CDK4. BPAF exposure also resulted in elevated intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), alongside reduced activities of the antioxidants glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Furthermore, the ROS scavenger N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) effectively blocked BPAF-triggered apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Therefore, this study suggests that BPAF induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in ST cells by activating ROS-mediated pathways. These findings enhance our understanding of BPAF's role in male reproductive toxicity and provide a foundation for future toxicological assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Feng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Junjing Wu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Runyu Lei
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Mu Qiao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Jiawei Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Zhong Xu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Zipeng Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Hua Sun
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Xianwen Peng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Shuqi Mei
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China; (Y.F.); (J.W.); (R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.Q.); (J.Z.); (Z.X.); (Z.L.); (H.S.)
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan 430070, China
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Zeng Y, Yang Q, Ouyang Y, Lou Y, Cui H, Deng H, Zhu Y, Geng Y, Ouyang P, Chen L, Zuo Z, Fang J, Guo H. Nickel induces blood-testis barrier damage through ROS-mediated p38 MAPK pathways in mice. Redox Biol 2023; 67:102886. [PMID: 37742495 PMCID: PMC10520947 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Nickel (Ni) is an essential common environmental contaminant, it is hazardous to male reproduction, but the precise mechanisms are still unknown. Blood-testis barrier (BTB), an important testicular structure consisting of connections between sertoli cells, is the target of reproductive toxicity caused by many environmental toxins. In this study, ultrastructure observation and BTB integrity assay results indicated that NiCl2 induced BTB damage. Meanwhile, BTB-related proteins including the tight junction (TJ), adhesion junction (AJ) and the gap junction (GJ) protein expression in mouse testes as well as in sertoli cells (TM4) were significantly decreased after NiCl2 treatment. Next, the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) was co-treated with NiCl2 to study the function of oxidative stress in NiCl2-mediated BTB deterioration. The results showed that NAC attenuated testicular histopathological damage, and the expression of BTB-related proteins were markedly reversed by NAC co-treatment in vitro and vivo. Otherwise, NiCl2 activated the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. And, NAC co-treatment could significantly inhibit p38 activation induced by NiCl2 in TM4 cells. Furthermore, in order to confirm the role of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway in NiCl2-induced BTB impairment, a p38 inhibitor (SB203580) was co-treated with NiCl2 in TM4 cells, and p38 MAPK signaling inhibition significantly restored BTB damage induced by NiCl2 in TM4 cells. These results suggest that NiCl2 treatment destroys the BTB, in which the oxidative stress-mediated p38 MAPK signaling pathway plays a vital role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Zeng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Qing Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Yujuan Ouyang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Yanbin Lou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Hengmin Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Diseases and Environmental Hazards of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agriculture University, Wenjiang, Chengdu, 611130, PR China
| | - Huidan Deng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Diseases and Environmental Hazards of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agriculture University, Wenjiang, Chengdu, 611130, PR China
| | - Yanqiu Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Yi Geng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Ping Ouyang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Lian Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Diseases and Environmental Hazards of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agriculture University, Wenjiang, Chengdu, 611130, PR China
| | - Zhicai Zuo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Diseases and Environmental Hazards of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agriculture University, Wenjiang, Chengdu, 611130, PR China.
| | - Jing Fang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Diseases and Environmental Hazards of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agriculture University, Wenjiang, Chengdu, 611130, PR China.
| | - Hongrui Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Diseases and Environmental Hazards of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agriculture University, Wenjiang, Chengdu, 611130, PR China.
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Nguyen HT, Martin LJ. Classical cadherins in the testis: how are they regulated? Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 35:641-660. [PMID: 37717581 DOI: 10.1071/rd23084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cadherins (CDH) are crucial intercellular adhesion molecules, contributing to morphogenesis and creating tissue barriers by regulating cells' movement, clustering and differentiation. In the testis, classical cadherins such as CDH1, CDH2 and CDH3 are critical to gonadogenesis by promoting the migration and the subsequent clustering of primordial germ cells with somatic cells. While CDH2 is present in both Sertoli and germ cells in rodents, CDH1 is primarily detected in undifferentiated spermatogonia. As for CDH3, its expression is mainly found in germ and pre-Sertoli cells in developing gonads until the establishment of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). This barrier is made of Sertoli cells forming intercellular junctional complexes. The restructuring of the BTB allows the movement of early spermatocytes toward the apical compartment as they differentiate during a process called spermatogenesis. CDH2 is among many junctional proteins participating in this process and is regulated by several pathways. While cytokines promote the disassembly of the BTB by enhancing junctional protein endocytosis for degradation, testosterone facilitates the assembly of the BTB by increasing the recycling of endocytosed junctional proteins. Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are also mediators of the BTB kinetics in many chemically induced damages in the testis. In addition to regulating Sertoli cell functions, follicle stimulating hormone can also regulate the expression of CDH2. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on regulatory mechanisms of cadherin localisation and expression in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha Tuyen Nguyen
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Luc J Martin
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
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Schutt WR, Conde JN, Mladinich MC, Himmler GE, Mackow ER. ZIKV induction of tristetraprolin in endothelial and Sertoli cells post-transcriptionally inhibits IFNβ/λ expression and promotes ZIKV persistence. mBio 2023; 14:e0174223. [PMID: 37707056 PMCID: PMC10653947 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01742-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Our findings define a novel role for ZIKV-induced TTP expression in regulating IFNβ/IFNλ production in primary hBMECs and Sertoli cells. These cells comprise key physiological barriers subverted by ZIKV to access brain and testicular compartments and serve as reservoirs for persistent replication and dissemination. We demonstrate for the first time that the ARE-binding protein TTP is virally induced and post-transcriptionally regulates IFNβ/IFNλ secretion. In ZIKV-infected hBMEC and Sertoli cells, TTP knockout increased IFNβ/IFNλ secretion, while TTP expression blocked IFNβ/IFNλ secretion. The TTP-directed blockade of IFN secretion permits ZIKV spread and persistence in hBMECs and Sertoli cells and may similarly augment ZIKV spread across IFNλ-protected placental barriers. Our work highlights the importance of post-transcriptional ZIKV regulation of IFN expression and secretion in cells that regulate viral access to protected compartments and defines a novel mechanism of ZIKV-regulated IFN responses which may facilitate neurovirulence and sexual transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R. Schutt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Center for Infectious Disease, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Jonas N. Conde
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Center for Infectious Disease, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Molecular and Cell Biology Program, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Megan C. Mladinich
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Center for Infectious Disease, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Molecular and Cell Biology Program, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Grace E. Himmler
- Center for Infectious Disease, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Molecular and Cell Biology Program, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Erich R. Mackow
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Center for Infectious Disease, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
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Meindl K, Issler N, Afonso S, Cebrian-Serrano A, Müller K, Sterner C, Othmen H, Tegtmeier I, Witzgall R, Klootwijk E, Davies B, Kleta R, Warth R. A missense mutation in Ehd1 associated with defective spermatogenesis and male infertility. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1240558. [PMID: 37900275 PMCID: PMC10600459 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1240558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Normal function of the C-terminal Eps15 homology domain-containing protein 1 (EHD1) has previously been associated with endocytic vesicle trafficking, shaping of intracellular membranes, and ciliogenesis. We recently identified an autosomal recessive missense mutation c.1192C>T (p.R398W) of EHD1 in patients who had low molecular weight proteinuria (0.7-2.1 g/d) and high-frequency hearing loss. It was already known from Ehd1 knockout mice that inactivation of Ehd1 can lead to male infertility. However, the exact role of the EHD1 protein and its p.R398W mutant during spermatogenesis remained still unclear. Here, we report the testicular phenotype of a knockin mouse model carrying the p.R398W mutation in the EHD1 protein. Male homozygous knockin mice were infertile, whereas the mutation had no effect on female fertility. Testes and epididymes were significantly reduced in size and weight. The testicular epithelium appeared profoundly damaged and had a disorganized architecture. The composition of developing cell types was altered. Malformed acrosomes covered underdeveloped and misshaped sperm heads. In the sperm tail, midpieces were largely missing indicating disturbed assembly of the sperm tail. Defective structures, i.e., nuclei, acrosomes, and sperm tail midpieces, were observed in large vacuoles scattered throughout the epithelium. Interestingly, cilia formation itself did not appear to be affected, as the axoneme and other parts of the sperm tails except the midpieces appeared to be intact. In wildtype mice, EHD1 co-localized with acrosomal granules on round spermatids, suggesting a role of the EHD1 protein during acrosomal development. Wildtype EHD1 also co-localized with the VPS35 component of the retromer complex, whereas the p.R398W mutant did not. The testicular pathologies appeared very early during the first spermatogenic wave in young mice (starting at 14 dpp) and tubular destruction worsened with age. Taken together, EHD1 plays an important and probably multifaceted role in spermatogenesis in mice. Therefore, EHD1 may also be a hitherto underestimated infertility gene in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Meindl
- Medical Cell Biology, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Naomi Issler
- Department of Renal Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Pediatric Nephrology Unit and Research Lab, Hadassah Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Sara Afonso
- Medical Cell Biology, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Institute of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alberto Cebrian-Serrano
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Diabetes and Obesity, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Karin Müller
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo- und Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Helga Othmen
- Medical Cell Biology, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Ines Tegtmeier
- Medical Cell Biology, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Ralph Witzgall
- Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Enriko Klootwijk
- Department of Renal Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin Davies
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Genetic Modification Service, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Kleta
- Department of Renal Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Warth
- Medical Cell Biology, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Chen Y, Xu D, Ma Y, Chen P, Hu J, Chen D, Yu W, Han X. Sertoli cell-derived extracellular vesicles traverse the blood-testis barrier and deliver miR-24-3p inhibitor into germ cells improving sperm mobility. J Control Release 2023; 362:58-69. [PMID: 37595666 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Asthenozoospermia, characterized by poor sperm motility, is a common cause of male infertility. Improving energy metabolism and alleviating oxidative stress through drug regimens are potential therapeutic strategies. In this study, we observed upregulated miR-24-3p levels in asthenozoospermia spermatozoa, contributing to energy metabolism disorder and oxidative stress by reducing GSK3β expression. Thus, reducing miR-24-3p levels using drugs is expected to improve sperm motility. The blood-testis barrier (BTB) protects the testis from xenobiotics and drugs. In this study, we found that Sertoli cell-derived small extracellular vesicles (SC-sEV) can traverse the BTB and enter germ cells. We successfully loaded miR-24-3p inhibitor into SC-sEV, creating the nano-drug SC-sEV@miR-24-3p inhibitor, which effectively delivers miR-24-3p inhibitor into germ cells. In a gossypol-induced mouse asthenozoospermia model, administration of SC-sEV@miR-24-3p inhibitor significantly improved sperm motility, in vitro fertilization success, and blastocyst formation rates. As anticipated, it also improved the litter size of asthenozoospermia mice. These results suggest that SC-sEV@miR-24-3p inhibitor holds promise as a potential clinical treatment for asthenospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yabing Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dihui Xu
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuhan Ma
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Peilin Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianhang Hu
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Deyan Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Wen Yu
- Department of Andrology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
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Pérez PA, Toledo J, Vitellini F, Cuello VN, Cantarelli V, Ponzio M, Mukdsi JH, Gutiérrez S. Environmentally relevant DEHP exposure during gestational and lactational period inhibits filamin a testicular expression. J Mol Histol 2023; 54:509-520. [PMID: 37572267 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-023-10144-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Toxicological studies have revealed that DEHP exposure during pregnancy may induce developmental disorders, especially in male offspring, leading to morphological and functional alterations in the reproductive system by mechanisms that should be investigated. Thus, the aim of this work was to analyze the testicular toxicity induced by an environmentally relevant DEHP dose during development and its impact on FLNA, a protein that participates in the blood-testis barrier assembly. We used male Wistar rats exposed to DEHP during pregnancy and lactation. The results showed that DEHP exposure during development and lactation increased body weight, decreased gonadal weight and shortened anogenital distance. This phthalate induced morphological changes in the testis, suggestive of hypospermatogenesis. DEHP exposure decreased the number of FLNA positive cells and the expression of FLNA and claudin-1 in prepubertal testes. Furthermore, DEHP inhibited FLNA and claudin-1 protein expression in adult male rats. These results indicated that exposure to DEHP during gestation and lactation perturbed testis development and suggested that FLNA is a target protein of DEHP, possibly contributing to the phthalate-induced damage on BTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo A Pérez
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Jonathan Toledo
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Facundo Vitellini
- Centro de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Victoria Navall Cuello
- Centro de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Verónica Cantarelli
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina
- Instituto de Fisiología Humana, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Marina Ponzio
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina
- Instituto de Fisiología Humana, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Jorge H Mukdsi
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Silvina Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina.
- Centro de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.
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Li ZF, Qi HY, Wang JM, Zhao Z, Tan FQ, Yang WX. mTORC1/rpS6 and mTORC2/PKC regulate spermatogenesis through Arp3-mediated actin microfilament organization in Eriocheir sinensis. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 393:559-575. [PMID: 37328709 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-023-03795-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a crucial signaling protein regulating a range of cellular events. Numerous studies have reported that the mTOR pathway is related to spermatogenesis in mammals. However, its functions and underlying mechanisms in crustaceans remain largely unknown. mTOR exists as two multimeric functional complexes termed mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2. Herein, we first cloned ribosomal protein S6 (rpS6, a downstream molecule of mTORC1) and protein kinase C (PKC, a downstream effector of mTORC2) from the testis of Eriocheir sinensis. The dynamic localization of rpS6 and PKC suggested that both proteins may be essential for spermatogenesis. rpS6/PKC knockdown and Torin1 treatment led to defects in spermatogenesis, including germ cell loss, retention of mature sperm and empty lumen formation. In addition, the integrity of the testis barrier (similar to the blood-testis barrier in mammals) was disrupted in the rpS6/PKC knockdown and Torin1 treatment groups, accompanied by changing in expression and distribution of junction proteins. Further study demonstrated that these findings may result from the disorganization of filamentous actin (F-actin) networks, which were mediated by the expression of actin-related protein 3 (Arp3) rather than epidermal growth factor receptor pathway substrate 8 (Eps8). In summary, our study illustrated that mTORC1/rpS6 and mTORC2/PKC regulated spermatogenesis via Arp3-mediated actin microfilament organization in E. sinensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Fang Li
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Hong-Yu Qi
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jia-Ming Wang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Zhan Zhao
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Fu-Qing Tan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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Gomes-Silva AP, Cunha de Medeiros PD, Silva LN, Da Silva Araújo Santiago M, Perobelli JE. Exposure to manganese during sertoli cell formation and proliferation disturbs early testicular development in rats. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 120:108447. [PMID: 37499885 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Manganese (Mn) is a metal and important micronutrient. However, exposure to supraphysiological levels of Mn, which occur through fungicides, atmospheric emissions, drainages, and spills, has been related to health risks, including morphometric changes in the male reproductive organs and impairment on gametogenesis and sperm quality, impacting the fertile ability of adult animals. Despite the relevance of the fetal/perinatal period for toxicological studies on Mn, previous data only deal with the physical and neurological development of the offspring, without mentioning their reproductive development. The present study investigated whether exposure to Mn during fetal/perinatal phase, specifically during the period of formation and proliferation of Sertoli cells, impairs the reproductive development of male offspring in early postnatal life. Therefore, pregnant Wistar rats were randomly distributed into 3 experimental groups: Ctl (received saline solution), Mn-9 (received 9 mg/kg of MnCl2), and Mn-90 (received 90 mg/kg of MnCl2). The female rats received the experimental treatment by gavage from gestational day 13 to lactational day 15, i.e., postnatal day (PND) 15 of the pups. Oxidative damage to the genetic material of germ and Sertoli cells, together with a decrease in connexin 43 immunolabeling were observed in the testis of male pups evaluated at PND 15. In addition, an increase in the seminiferous tubules presenting slight epithelium vacuolization and cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm were observed, without apparent epididymal changes. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that Mn perturbed the initial testicular development by altering Sertoli cell integrity through oxidative insult, which may compromise the spermatogenesis in the long-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Priscila Gomes-Silva
- Laboratory of Experimental Toxicology - LATOEX, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Instituto do Mar, Carvalho de Mendonça, 144, 11070-100 Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Paloma da Cunha de Medeiros
- Laboratory of Experimental Toxicology - LATOEX, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Instituto do Mar, Carvalho de Mendonça, 144, 11070-100 Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Laís Nogueira Silva
- Laboratory of Experimental Toxicology - LATOEX, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Instituto do Mar, Carvalho de Mendonça, 144, 11070-100 Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcella Da Silva Araújo Santiago
- Laboratory of Experimental Toxicology - LATOEX, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Instituto do Mar, Carvalho de Mendonça, 144, 11070-100 Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana Elaine Perobelli
- Laboratory of Experimental Toxicology - LATOEX, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Instituto do Mar, Carvalho de Mendonça, 144, 11070-100 Santos, SP, Brazil.
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Miao C, Wang Z, Wang X, Huang W, Gao X, Cao Z. Deoxynivalenol Induces Blood-Testis Barrier Dysfunction through Disrupting p38 Signaling Pathway-Mediated Tight Junction Protein Expression and Distribution in Mice. J Agric Food Chem 2023; 71:12829-12838. [PMID: 37590035 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c03552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Deoxynivalenol (DON) is widely present in cereals and processed grains. It can disrupt the blood-testicular barrier (BTB), leading to sterility in males; however, the mechanism is unknown. In this study, 30 Kunming mice and TM4 cells were exposed to 0 or 4.8 mg/kg (28 d) and 0-2.4 μM (24 h) of DON, respectively. Histopathological findings showed that DON increased BTB permeability in mice, leading to tight junction (TJ) structural damage. Immunofluorescence results indicated that DON disrupted the localization of zonula occludens (ZO)-1. The results of protein and mRNA expression showed that the expression of ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-11 was reduced, and that the p38/GSK-3β/snail and p38/ATF-2/MLCK signaling pathways were activated in mouse testes and TM4 cells. Pretreatment with the p38 inhibitor SB203580 maintained TJ integrity in TM4 cells after exposure to DON. Thus, DON induced BTB dysfunction in mice by disrupting p38 pathway-mediated TJ expression and distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenjiao Miao
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, No. 600, Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Zijia Wang
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, No. 600, Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, No. 600, Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Wanyue Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, No. 600, Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Zheng Cao
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, No. 600, Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
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Zhang W, Tian Z, Qi X, Chen P, Yang Q, Guan Q, Ye J, Yu C. Switching from high-fat diet to normal diet ameliorate BTB integrity and improve fertility potential in obese male mice. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14152. [PMID: 37644200 PMCID: PMC10465505 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41291-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a prominent risk factor for male infertility, and a high-fat diet is an important cause of obesity. Therefore, diet control can reduce body weight and regulate blood glucose and lipids, but it remains unclear whether it can improve male fertility and its mechanism. This study explores the effects of switching from a high-fat diet (HFD) to a normal diet (ND) on the fertility potential of obese male mice and its related mechanisms. In our study, male mice were separated into three groups: normal diet group (NN), continuous high-fat diet group (HH), and return to normal diet group (HN). The reproductive potential of mice was tested through cohabitation. Enzymatic methods and ELISA assays were used to measure metabolic indicators, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and intratesticular testosterone levels. Transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescence with biotin tracers assessed the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were inspected for the assessment of oxidative stress. The expression and localization of BTB-related proteins were detected through the immunoblot and immunofluorescence. The mice in the high-fat diet group indicated increased body weight and epididymal fat weight, elevated serum TC, HDL, LDL, and glucose, decreased serum FSH, and dramatic lipid deposition in the testicular interstitium. Analysis of fertility potential revealed that the fertility rate of female mice and the number of pups per litter in the HH group were significantly reduced. After the fat intake was controlled by switching to a normal diet, body weight and epididymal fat weight were significantly reduced, serum glucose and lipid levels were lowered, serum FSH level was elevated and the deposition of interstitial lipids in the testicles was also decreased. Most significantly, the number of offspring of male mice returning to a normal diet was significantly increased. Following further mechanistic analysis, the mice in the sustained high-fat diet group had disrupted testicular BTB integrity, elevated levels of oxidative stress, and abnormal expression of BTB-related proteins, whereas the restoration of the normal diet significantly ameliorated the above indicators in the mice. Our study confirms diet control by switching from a high-fat diet to a normal diet can effectively reduce body weight, ameliorate testicular lipotoxicity and BTB integrity in male mice, and improve fertility potential, providing an effective treatment option for obese male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Zhenhua Tian
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Xiangyu Qi
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Pengcheng Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Qingbo Guan
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Jifeng Ye
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Second People's Hospital of Liaocheng, Shandong, 252601, China.
| | - Chunxiao Yu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
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Maezawa S, Yukawa M, Hasegawa K, Sugiyama R, Iizuka M, Hu M, Sakashita A, Vidal M, Koseki H, Barski A, DeFalco T, Namekawa SH. PRC1 suppresses a female gene regulatory network to ensure testicular differentiation. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:501. [PMID: 37542070 PMCID: PMC10403552 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05996-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Gonadal sex determination and differentiation are controlled by somatic support cells of testes (Sertoli cells) and ovaries (granulosa cells). In testes, the epigenetic mechanism that maintains chromatin states responsible for suppressing female sexual differentiation remains unclear. Here, we show that Polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1) suppresses a female gene regulatory network in postnatal Sertoli cells. We genetically disrupted PRC1 function in embryonic Sertoli cells after sex determination, and we found that PRC1-depleted postnatal Sertoli cells exhibited defective proliferation and cell death, leading to the degeneration of adult testes. In adult Sertoli cells, PRC1 suppressed specific genes required for granulosa cells, thereby inactivating the female gene regulatory network. Chromatin regions associated with female-specific genes were marked by Polycomb-mediated repressive modifications: PRC1-mediated H2AK119ub and PRC2-mediated H3K27me3. Taken together, this study identifies a critical Polycomb-based mechanism that suppresses ovarian differentiation and maintains Sertoli cell fate in adult testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- So Maezawa
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-5201, Japan.
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan.
| | - Masashi Yukawa
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Kazuteru Hasegawa
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Ryo Sugiyama
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Mizuho Iizuka
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Mengwen Hu
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Akihiko Sakashita
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Miguel Vidal
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Haruhiko Koseki
- Developmental Genetics Laboratory, RIKEN Center for Allergy and Immunology, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Artem Barski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Tony DeFalco
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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Inoue T, Aoyama-Ishikawa M, Uemura M, Kohama K, Fujisaki N, Murakami H, Yamada T, Hirata J. The role of death receptor signaling pathways in mouse Sertoli cell avoidance of apoptosis during LPS- and IL-18-induced inflammatory conditions. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 158:103970. [PMID: 37263030 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) triggers infectious acute inflammation, and interleukin (IL)-18 is an inflammasome-mediated cytokine. We previously demonstrated that endogenous IL-18 induces testicular germ cell apoptosis during acute inflammation when plasma IL-18 levels are high. Additionally, high-dose recombinant IL-18 (rIL-18) induced Leydig cell apoptosis. The blood-testis barrier formed by Sertoli cells protects testicular germ cells from both exogenous and endogenous harmful substances. However, the impact of LPS and IL-18 on Sertoli cells remained unclear. We stimulated TM4 cells, a mouse Sertoli cell line, with LPS (200 or 1000 ng/mL) or rIL-18 (0.1-100 ng/mL) at levels that induced Leydig cell apoptosis in our previous study and assessed caspase 3 cleavage and the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines and markers of apoptotic pathways (Tnfr1, Fasl, Fas, Fadd) after stimulation. Il6 mRNA was increased by LPS stimulation. Tnfα mRNA was increased by 200 ng/mL LPS but not 1000 ng/mL LPS. Fas was increased, but Fasl was decreased, by LPS. LPS had little influence on Tnfr1 or Fadd mRNA expression and did not induce apoptosis. Il18 mRNA was not increased, and Il18r1 was significantly decreased following LPS treatment. Treatment with rIL-18 increased Il18r1 mRNA and induced inflammation, but decreased Tnfr1 and had little influence on apoptosis, as indicated by Tnfα, Fasl, Fas, Fadd and cleaved caspase 3. These results suggested that Sertoli cells do not easily undergo apoptosis despite strong inflammatory stimuli. Additionally, Sertoli cells may resist inflammation and play a larger role in protecting testicular homeostasis than other component cells of the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taketo Inoue
- Department of Emergency, Disaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan; Department of Rehabilitation Science, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe 654-0142, Hyogo, Japan.
| | - Michiko Aoyama-Ishikawa
- Department of Emergency, Disaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Mikiko Uemura
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe 654-0142, Hyogo, Japan; Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Science, Kansai University of Welfare Sciences, 3-11-1, Asahigaoka, Kashiwara, 582-0026 Osaka, Japan
| | - Keisuke Kohama
- Department of Emergency, Disaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Noritomo Fujisaki
- Department of Emergency, Disaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan; Department of Emergency Medicine, Hiroshima City Hiroshima Citizens Hospital, 7-33, Motomachi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, 730-8518 Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiromoto Murakami
- Department of Emergency, Disaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Taihei Yamada
- Department of Emergency, Disaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Junichi Hirata
- Department of Emergency, Disaster and Critical Care Medicine, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1, Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan
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Guney C, Bal NB, Akar F. The impact of dietary fructose on gut permeability, microbiota, abdominal adiposity, insulin signaling and reproductive function. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18896. [PMID: 37636431 PMCID: PMC10447940 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The excessive intake of fructose in the regular human diet could be related to global increases in metabolic disorders. Sugar-sweetened soft drinks, mostly consumed by children, adolescents, and young adults, are the main source of added fructose. Dietary high-fructose can increase intestinal permeability and circulatory endotoxin by changing the gut barrier function and microbial composition. Excess fructose transports to the liver and then triggers inflammation as well as de novo lipogenesis leading to hepatic steatosis. Fructose also induces fat deposition in adipose tissue by stimulating the expression of lipogenic genes, thus causing abdominal adiposity. Activation of the inflammatory pathway by fructose in target tissues is thought to contribute to the suppression of the insulin signaling pathway producing systemic insulin resistance. Moreover, there is some evidence that high intake of fructose negatively affects both male and female reproductive systems and may lead to infertility. This review addresses dietary high-fructose-induced deteriorations that are obvious, especially in gut permeability, microbiota, abdominal fat accumulation, insulin signaling, and reproductive function. The recognition of the detrimental effects of fructose and the development of relevant new public health policies are necessary in order to prevent diet-related metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fatma Akar
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
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Zhang X, Liu Y, Sosa F, Gunewardena S, Crawford PA, Zielen AC, Orwig KE, Wang N. Transcriptional metabolic reprogramming implements meiotic fate decision in mouse testicular germ cells. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112749. [PMID: 37405912 PMCID: PMC10529640 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutrient starvation drives yeast meiosis, whereas retinoic acid (RA) is required for mammalian meiosis through its germline target Stra8. Here, by using single-cell transcriptomic analysis of wild-type and Stra8-deficient juvenile mouse germ cells, our data show that the expression of nutrient transporter genes, including Slc7a5, Slc38a2, and Slc2a1, is downregulated in germ cells during meiotic initiation, and this process requires Stra8, which binds to these genes and induces their H3K27 deacetylation. Consequently, Stra8-deficient germ cells sustain glutamine and glucose uptake in response to RA and exhibit hyperactive mTORC1/protein kinase A (PKA) activities. Importantly, expression of Slc38a2, a glutamine importer, is negatively correlated with meiotic genes in the GTEx dataset, and Slc38a2 knockdown downregulates mTORC1/PKA activities and induces meiotic gene expression. Thus, our study indicates that RA via Stra8, a chordate morphogen pathway, induces meiosis partially by generating a conserved nutrient restriction signal in mammalian germ cells by downregulating their nutrient transporter expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; Center for Reproductive Sciences, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences (IRDS), University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA.
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; Center for Reproductive Sciences, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences (IRDS), University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Froylan Sosa
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; Center for Reproductive Sciences, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences (IRDS), University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Sumedha Gunewardena
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Peter A Crawford
- Department of Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Amanda C Zielen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Ning Wang
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; Center for Reproductive Sciences, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences (IRDS), University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA.
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Li T, Shao W, Wang Y, Zhou R, Yun Z, He Y, Wu Y. A two-sample mendelian randomization analysis investigates associations between gut microbiota and infertility. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11426. [PMID: 37454180 PMCID: PMC10349861 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38624-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Observational studies have provided evidence of a correlation between alterations in gut microbiota composition and infertility. However, concrete proof supporting the causal relationship is still lacking. We performed a Mendelian randomization study to assess whether genetically gut microbiota composition influences the risk of infertility. The genetic data pertaining to gut microbiota were obtained from a genome-wide association study meta-analysis, which was conducted among 24 cohorts (18,340 participants) from the international MiBioGen consortium. By the primary method of assessing causality, we have identified 2 family taxa, 2 genus taxa, and 1 order taxa that were linked to a low risk of male infertility, while 1 genus taxa were associated with a high risk of male infertility. Furthermore, we have discovered 6 genus taxa, 1 phylum taxa, 1 class taxa, 1 order taxa, and 1 family taxa that were associated with a low risk of female infertility, while 1 genus taxa were linked to a high risk of female infertility. This study successfully confirmed that there was a causal link between gut microbiota and infertility. The identification of these specific strains through genetic prediction offers a valuable insight for early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taozhi Li
- Department of Oncology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenbo Shao
- Department of Cardiology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yukun Wang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhangjun Yun
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yalin He
- Chongqing Jiangjin District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu Wu
- Department of Oncology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Ozoani H, Ezejiofor AN, Okolo KO, Orish CN, Cirovic A, Cirovic A, Orisakwe OE. Zinc and selenium attenuate quaternary heavy metal mixture-induced testicular damage via amplification of the antioxidant system, reduction in metal accumulation, inflammatory and apoptotic biomarkers. Toxicol Res 2023; 39:497-515. [PMID: 37398573 PMCID: PMC10313602 DOI: 10.1007/s43188-023-00187-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Heavy metals (HMs) such as cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and mercury (Hg) are highly toxic elements. They are often found together in nature as a heavy metal mixture (HMM) and are known to contribute to subfertility/infertility as environmental pollutants. This study aims to evaluate the potential benefits of treating HMM-induced testicular pathophysiology with zinc (Zn) and/or selenium (Se). Six-week-old male Sprague Dawley rats were grouped into 5 (n = 7). The control group received deionized water, while the other groups were treated with PbCl2 (20 mg kg-1), CdCl2 (1.61 mg kg-1), HgCl2 (0.40 mg kg-1), and Na2AsO3 (10 mg kg-1) in deionized water for 60 days. Additionally, groups III to V received Zn, Se, and Zn/Se, respectively, for 60 days. The study evaluated testis weight, metal accumulation, sperm analysis, FSH, LH, testosterone, prolactin, oxidative stress, antioxidants, pro-inflammatory and apoptotic markers, and presented structural changes in the testis as micrographs. HMM caused a significant increase in testis weight, metal accumulation, prolactin, oxidative stress, and pro-inflammatory and apoptotic markers, while significantly decreasing semen analysis, FSH, LH, and testosterone. Histology showed decreased spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis, as evidenced by the structure of the germ cells and spermatids. However, Zn, Se, or both ameliorated and reversed some of the observed damages. This study provides further evidence for the mitigative potential of Zn, Se, or both in reversing the damage inflicted by HMM in the testis, and as a countermeasure towards improving HM-induced decrease in public health fecundity. Graphical abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison Ozoani
- African Centre of Excellence for Public Health and Toxicological Research (ACE-PUTOR), University of Port Harcourt, PMB, 5323, Port Harcourt, Choba Nigeria
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science and Technology, Nsukka, Enugu State Nigeria
| | - Anthonet N. Ezejiofor
- African Centre of Excellence for Public Health and Toxicological Research (ACE-PUTOR), University of Port Harcourt, PMB, 5323, Port Harcourt, Choba Nigeria
| | - Kenneth O. Okolo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science and Technology, Nsukka, Enugu State Nigeria
| | - Chinna N. Orish
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, PMB, 5323, Port Harcourt, Choba Nigeria
| | - Ana Cirovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandar Cirovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Orish E. Orisakwe
- African Centre of Excellence for Public Health and Toxicological Research (ACE-PUTOR), University of Port Harcourt, PMB, 5323, Port Harcourt, Choba Nigeria
- Provictoire Research Institute, Port Harcourt, Rivers State Nigeria
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Al-Naqshbandi AA, Nafee Darogha S, Asaaf Maulood K. Genotypic and Allelic Prevalence of the TGF- Β1 +869 C/T SNP and Their Relationship to Seminogram in Infertile Males. Rep Biochem Mol Biol 2023; 12:318-331. [PMID: 38317808 PMCID: PMC10838586 DOI: 10.61186/rbmb.12.2.318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Background The influence of cytokine in the reproductive system is becoming increasingly important. The polymorphisms of the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) gene are involved in male infertility. This study aimed to demonstrate the association between TGF-β1 and infertility and to investigate its impact on semen quality. Methods In this case-control study, serum TGF-β1 concentration was measured in 144 patients diagnosed with infertility and 40 fertile males by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The tetra-amplification refractory mutation system-PCR (T-ARMS-PCR) analysis was performed to detect the genotyping of the TGF-β1 (+869 C/T) (rs1800470) SNPs gene. Results Serum concentration of TGF-β1 was less in infertile males compared to fertile ones. The detected and more effective genotypes and alleles of TGF-β1 gene polymorphic on male infertility were, in normozoospermic group, CT genotype, probability (p)= 0.45, relative risk (RR)= 1.56, confidence intervals (CI): 0.58-4.22, and T allele (p= 0.46, RR= 1.32, CI: 0.65-2.69), in oligozoospermic and azoospermic groups, CC genotype (p= 0.32, RR= 1.58, CI: 0.73-3.41), (p= 0.013, RR= 3.50, CI: 1.40-8.73), and allele C (p= 0.44, RR= 1.32, CI: 0.73-2.38), (p= 0.06, RR= 2.14, CI: 1.02-4.50), respectively. The recessive model (TT+CT) showed increased risk among normozoospermic group (p=0.44, RR=1.67, CI:0.60-4.62). The serum concentration of TGF-β1 with CT and TT genotypes was less than that of CC genotype. TGF-β1 C/T genotype correlated with low sperm number, high immotile sperm, and high abnormal sperm morphology. Conclusions Our study revealed that the TGF-β1(rs1800470) gene polymorphisms are associated negatively with semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suhaila Nafee Darogha
- Department of Biology, College of Education, Scientific Department, University of Salahaddin, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.
| | - Kalthum Asaaf Maulood
- Department of Biology, College of Education, Scientific Department, University of Salahaddin, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.
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41
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Mooradian AD. Diabetes-related perturbations in the integrity of physiologic barriers. J Diabetes Complications 2023; 37:108552. [PMID: 37356233 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdiacomp.2023.108552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
One of the hallmarks of health is the integrity of barriers at the cellular and tissue levels. The two cardinal functions of barriers include preventing access of deleterious elements of the environment (barrier function) while facilitating the transport of essential ions, signaling molecules and nutrients needed to maintain the internal milieu (transport function). There are several cellular and subcellular barriers and some of these barriers can be interrelated. The principal physiologic barriers include blood-retinal barrier, blood-brain barrier, blood-testis barrier, renal glomerular/tubular barrier, intestinal barrier, pulmonary blood-alveolar barrier, blood-placental barrier and skin barrier. Tissue specific barriers are the result of the vasculature, cellular composition of the tissue and extracellular matrix within the tissue. Uncontrolled diabetes and acute hyperglycemia may disrupt the integrity of physiologic barriers, primarily through altering the vascular integrity of the tissues and may well contribute to the clinically recognized complications of diabetes. Although diabetes is a systemic disease, some of the organs display clinically significant deterioration in function while others undergo subclinical changes. The pathophysiology of the disruption of these barriers is not entirely clear but it may be related to diabetes-related cellular stress. Understanding the mechanisms of diabetes related dysfunction of various physiologic barriers might help identifying novel therapeutic targets for reducing clinically significant complications of diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arshag D Mooradian
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Florida Jacksonville College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
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Zhang C, Lu D, Niu T, Sun Z, Wang Y, Han X, Xiong B, Shen W, Sun Q, Zhao Y, Zhang W, Feng Y. LncRNA5251 inhibits spermatogenesis via modification of cell-cell junctions. Biol Direct 2023; 18:31. [PMID: 37316926 PMCID: PMC10268499 DOI: 10.1186/s13062-023-00381-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male factors-caused decline in total fertility has raised significant concern worldwide. LncRNAs have been identified to play various roles in biological systems, including spermatogenesis. This study aimed to explore the role of lncRNA5251 in mouse spermatogenesis. METHODS The expression of lncRNA5251 was modulated in mouse testes in vivo or spermatogonial stem cells (C18-4 cells) in vitro by shRNA. RESULTS The sperm motility in two generations mice after modulation of lncRNA5251 (muF0 and muF1) was decreased significantly after overexpression of lncRNA5251. GO enrichment analysis found that knockdown lncRNA5251 increased the expression of genes related to cell junctions, and genes important for spermatogenesis in mouse testes. Meanwhile, overexpressing lncRNA5251 decreased the gene and/or protein expression of important genes for spermatogenesis and immune pathways in mouse testes. In vitro, knockdown lncRNA5251 increased the expression of genes for cell junction, and the protein levels of some cell junction proteins such as CX37, OCLN, JAM1, VCAM1 and CADM2 in C18-4 cells. LncRNA5251 is involved in spermatogenesis by modulation of cell junctions. CONCLUSION This will provide a theoretical basis for improving male reproductive ability via lncRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Zhang
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology and Disease, College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, P. R. China
- Urology Department, Shenzhen University general hospital, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Dongxin Lu
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology and Disease, College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, P. R. China
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, P. R. China
| | - Tong Niu
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology and Disease, College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, P. R. China
| | - Zhongyi Sun
- Urology Department, Shenzhen University general hospital, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Yandi Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology and Disease, College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, P. R. China
| | - Xiao Han
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology and Disease, College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, P. R. China
| | - Bohui Xiong
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology and Disease, College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, P. R. China
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, P. R. China
| | - Qingyuan Sun
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, 510317, P. R. China
| | - Yong Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, P. R. China
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, 6150, Australia
| | - Weidong Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, P. R. China.
| | - Yanni Feng
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology and Disease, College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, P. R. China.
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Luaces JP, Toro-Urrego N, Otero-Losada M, Capani F. What do we know about blood-testis barrier? current understanding of its structure and physiology. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1114769. [PMID: 37397257 PMCID: PMC10307970 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1114769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood-testis barrier (BTB) creates a particular compartment in the seminiferous epithelium. Contacting Sertoli cell-Sertoli cell plasma membranes possess specialized junction proteins which present a complex dynamic of formation and dismantling. Thus, these specialized structures facilitate germ cell movement across the BTB. Junctions are constantly rearranged during spermatogenesis while the BTB preserves its barrier function. Imaging methods are essential to studying the dynamic of this sophisticated structure in order to understand its functional morphology. Isolated Sertoli cell cultures cannot represent the multiple interactions of the seminiferous epithelium and in situ studies became a fundamental approach to analyze BTB dynamics. In this review, we discuss the contributions of high-resolution microscopy studies to enlarge the body of morphofunctional data to understand the biology of the BTB as a dynamic structure. The first morphological evidence of the BTB was based on a fine structure of the junctions, which was resolved with Transmission Electron Microscopy. The use of conventional Fluorescent Light Microscopy to examine labelled molecules emerged as a fundamental technique for elucidating the precise protein localization at the BTB. Then laser-scanning confocal microscopy allowed the study of three-dimensional structures and complexes at the seminiferous epithelium. Several junction proteins, like the transmembrane, scaffold and signaling proteins, were identified in the testis using traditional animal models. BTB morphology was analyzed in different physiological conditions as the spermatocyte movement during meiosis, testis development, and seasonal spermatogenesis, but also structural elements, proteins, and BTB permeability were studied. Under pathological, pharmacological, or pollutant/toxic conditions, there are significant studies that provide high-resolution images which help to understand the dynamic of the BTB. Notwithstanding the advances, further research using new technologies is required to gain information on the BTB. Super-resolution light microscopy is needed to provide new research with high-quality images of targeted molecules at a nanometer-scale resolution. Finally, we highlight research areas that warrant future studies, pinpointing new microscopy approaches and helping to improve our ability to understand this barrier complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. P. Luaces
- Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CAECIHS.UAI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - N. Toro-Urrego
- Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CAECIHS.UAI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M. Otero-Losada
- Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CAECIHS.UAI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - F. Capani
- Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CAECIHS.UAI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Liu DX, Li ZF, Zhao YS, Wang LM, Qi HY, Zhao Z, Tan FQ, Yang WX. Es-β-CATENIN affects the hemolymph-testes barrier in Eriocheir sinensis by disrupting cell junctions and cytoskeleton. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 242:124867. [PMID: 37201886 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
β-CATENIN is an evolutionarily conserved multifunctional molecule that maintains cell adhesion as a cell junction protein to safeguard the integrity of the mammalian blood-testes barrier, and also regulates cell proliferation and apoptosis as a key signaling molecule in the WNT/β-CATENIN signaling pathway. In the crustacean Eriocheir sinensis, Es-β-CATENIN has been shown to be involved in spermatogenesis, but the testes of E. sinensis have large and well-defined structural differences from those of mammals, and the impact of Es-β-CATENIN in them is still unknown. In the present study, we found that Es-β-CATENIN, Es-α-CATENIN and Es-ZO-1 interact differently in the testes of the crab compared to mammals. In addition, defective Es-β-CATENIN resulted in increased Es-α-CATENIN protein expression levels, distorted and deformed F-ACTIN, and disturbed localization of Es-α-CATENIN and Es-ZO-1, leading to loss of hemolymph-testes barrier integrity and impaired sperm release. In addition to this, we also performed the first molecular cloning and bioinformatics analysis of Es-AXIN in the WNT/β-CATENIN pathway to exclude the effect of the WNT/β-CATENIN pathway on the cytoskeleton. In conclusion, Es-β-CATENIN participates in maintaining the hemolymph-testes barrier in the spermatogenesis of E. sinensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ding-Xi Liu
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhen-Fang Li
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yan-Shuang Zhao
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lan-Min Wang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Hong-Yu Qi
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhan Zhao
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Fu-Qing Tan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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Lu T, Mortimer M, Li F, Li Z, Chen L, Li M, Guo LH. Putative adverse outcome pathways of the male reproductive toxicity derived from toxicological studies of perfluoroalkyl acids. Sci Total Environ 2023; 873:162439. [PMID: 36848992 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Adverse outcome pathway (AOP) as a conceptual framework is a powerful tool in the field of toxicology to connect seemingly discrete events at different levels of biological organizations into an organized pathway from molecular interactions to whole organism toxicity. Based on numerous toxicological studies, eight AOPs for reproductive toxicity have been endorsed by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Task Force on Hazard Assessment. We have conducted a literature survey on the mechanistic studies on male reproductive toxicity of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), a class of global environmental contaminants with high persistence, bioaccumulation and toxicity. Using the AOP development strategy, five new AOPs for male reproductive toxicity were proposed here, namely (1) changes in membrane permeability leading to reduced sperm motility, (2) disruption of mitochondrial function leading to sperm apoptosis, (3) decreased gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) expression in hypothalamus leading to reduced testosterone production in male rats, (4) activation of the p38 signaling pathway leading to disruption of BTB in mice, (5) inhibition of p-FAK-Tyr407 activity leading to the destruction of BTB. The molecular initiating events in the proposed AOPs are different from those in the endorsed AOPs, which are either receptor activation or enzyme inhibition. Although some of the AOPs are still incomplete, they can serve as a building block upon which full AOPs can be developed and applied to not only PFAAs but also other chemical toxicants with male reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingyu Lu
- College of Life Science, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Monika Mortimer
- Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Fangfang Li
- Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Zhi Li
- College of Life Science, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Lu Chen
- College of Life Science, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Minjie Li
- College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Liang-Hong Guo
- Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
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Kumar GG, Kilari EK, Nelli G, Salleh N. Oral administration of Turnera diffusa willd. ex Schult. extract ameliorates steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis impairment in the testes of rats with type-2 diabetes mellitus. J Ethnopharmacol 2023; 314:116638. [PMID: 37187362 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. (T. diffusa) has traditionally been used to treat male reproductive dysfunction and have aphrodisiac properties. AIMS OF THE STUDY This study aims to investigate the ability of T. diffusa to ameliorate the impairment in testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in DM that might help to improve testicular function, and subsequently restore male fertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS DM-induced adult male rats were given 100 mg/kg/day and 200 mg/kg/day T. diffusa leaf extract orally for 28 consecutive days. Rats were then sacrificed; sperm and testes were harvested and sperm parameter analysis were performed. Histo-morphological changes in the testes were observed. Biochemical assays were performed to measure testosterone and testicular oxidative stress levels. Immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence were used to monitor oxidative stress and inflammation levels in testes as well as Sertoli and steroidogenic marker proteins' expression. RESULTS Treatment with T. diffusa restores sperm count, motility, and viability near normal and reduces sperm morphological abnormalities and sperm DNA fragmentation in diabetic rats. T. diffusa treatment also reduces testicular NOX-2 and lipid peroxidation levels, increases testicular antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx) activities, ameliorates testicular inflammation via downregulating NF-ΚB, p-Ikkβ and TNF-α and upregulating IκBα expression. In diabetic rats, T. diffusa treatment increases testicular steroidogenic proteins (StAR, CYP11A1, SHBG, and ARA54, 3 and 17β-HSD) and plasma testosterone levels. Furthermore, in diabetic rats treated with T. diffusa, Sertoli cell marker proteins including Connexin 43, N-cadherin, and occludin levels in the testes were elevated. CONCLUSION T. diffusa treatment could help to ameliorate the detrimental effects of DM on the testes, thus this plant has potential to be used to restore male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gowri Gopa Kumar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Eswar Kumar Kilari
- Pharmacology Division, A.U. College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, 530 003, India
| | - Giribabu Nelli
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Naguib Salleh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Huang S, Zhang L, Luo J, Wu D, Ma K, Chen Y, Ma S, Feng L, Li F, Liu D, Deng J, Tan C. Cysteamine and N-Acetyl-cysteine Alleviate Placental Oxidative Stress and Barrier Function Damage Induced by Deoxynivalenol. J Agric Food Chem 2023; 71:6846-6858. [PMID: 37122089 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c00399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Sows are highly sensitive to deoxynivalenol (DON) and susceptible to reproductive toxicity caused by oxidative stress, but the potential mechanisms and effective interventions remain unclear. Here, we investigated the role of two antioxidants (cysteamine and N-acetyl-cysteine) in regulating the reproductive performance, redox status, and placental barrier function of sows and their potential mechanisms under DON exposure. Maternal dietary supply of antioxidants from day 85 of gestation to parturition reduced the incidence of stillbirths and low-birth-weight piglets under DON exposure. Moreover, the alleviation of DON-induced reproductive toxicity by dietary antioxidants was associated with the alleviation of placental oxidative stress, the enhancement of the placental barrier, and the vascular function of sows. Furthermore, in vivo and in vitro vascularized placental barrier modeling further demonstrated that antioxidants could reverse both DON transport across the placenta and DON-induced increase of placental barrier permeability. The molecular mechanism of antioxidant resistance to DON toxicity may be related to the signal transducer and activator of the transcription-3-occludin/zonula occludens-1 signaling pathway. Collectively, these results demonstrate the potential of antioxidants to protect the mother from DON-induced reproductive toxicity by alleviating placental oxidative stress and enhancing the placental barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangbo Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Longmiao Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jinxi Luo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Deyuan Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Kaidi Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yiling Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Shuo Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Li Feng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Fuyong Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Dingfa Liu
- Guangdong Foodstuffs IMP&EXP (Group) Corp, Guangzhou 510100, China
| | - Jinping Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Chengquan Tan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Institute of Subtropical Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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Goktepe O, Onder GO, Cetindag E, Bitgen N, Cengiz Mat O, Alisan Suna P, Tufan E, Yalcın B, Baran M, Öz Gergin Ö, Yay A. The effect of different doses of nonylphenol on the blood-testicular barrier integrity, hormone level, and DNA damage in the testes of rats. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 177:113816. [PMID: 37164249 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Determining the molecular characteristics of the damage caused by NP exposure in the testis is very important for understanding the source of the damage and developing treatment methods accordingly. Therefore, in this study, it is aimed to evaluate the toxic effects that different doses of NP may cause in the testis, including blood-testicular barrier integrity and sperm DNA damage. For this purpose, 50 adult male Wistar albino rats were used in the study. Low, medium, and high-dose NP groups and the corn oil group were formed. After NP administration at determined doses for 15 days, the testis tissue taken under anesthesia was fixed in formaldehyde. Paraffin blocks were embedded using the routine histological tissue follow-up method. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed by taking 5 μm thick sections from paraffin blocks. The other testicular tissue was taken for the Western blot, Elisa, and comet methods, and the findings of sperm DNA analysis and the blood-testicular barrier were examined. NP caused the seminiferous epithelium to be disorganized and have significantly fewer cells in the testes of rats in different dose NP-induced groups. Compared with the control group, mTOR, Cx43, SCF, and HSP70 protein levels were decreased, while the expression of MMP-9 levels was increased in the different NP dose groups. Furthermore, tissue testosterone and inhibin B levels and SF-1 immunoreactivity intensity gradually decreased depending on the dose increase of NP. DNA damage of testicular tissues were increased in NP groups depending on NP dose. These results suggest that it is evident that NP, a commonly used industrial chemical, is an endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC) with estrogenic activity exerting adverse effects on health and that urgent measures are needed regarding the use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozge Goktepe
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey; Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Gozde Ozge Onder
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey; Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Emre Cetindag
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ömer Halisdemir University, Faculty of Medicine, Niğde, Turkey.
| | - Nazmiye Bitgen
- Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey; Department of Medical Biology, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Ozge Cengiz Mat
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Pınar Alisan Suna
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Emre Tufan
- Department of Biophysics, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Betul Yalcın
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Adıyaman University, Faculty of Medicine, 02040, Adıyaman, Turkey.
| | - Munevver Baran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Basic Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Özlem Öz Gergin
- Department of Surgical Medicine Science, Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Arzu Yay
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey; Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
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Haider S, Beristain AG. Human organoid systems in modeling reproductive tissue development, function, and disease. Hum Reprod 2023:7147082. [PMID: 37119533 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Research focused on human reproductive biology has primarily relied upon clinical samples affording mainly descriptive studies with limited implementation of functional or mechanistic understanding. More importantly, restricted access to human embryonic material has necessitated the use of animals, primarily rats and mice, and short-term primary cell cultures derived from human patient material. While reproductive developmental processes are generally conserved across mammals, specific features unique to human reproduction have resulted in the development of human-based in vitro systems designed to retain or recapitulate key molecular and cellular processes important in humans. Of note, major advances in 3D epithelial stem cell-based systems modeling human reproductive organ development have been made. These cultures, broadly referred to as organoids, enable research aimed at understanding cellular hierarchies and processes controlling cellular differentiation and function. Moreover, organoids allow the pre-clinical testing of pharmacological substances, both from safety and efficacy standpoints, and hold large potential in driving aspects of personalized medicine that were previously not possible with traditional models. In this mini-review, we focus on summarizing the current state of regenerative organoid culture systems of the female and male reproductive tracts that model organ development, maintenance, and function. Specifically, we will introduce stem cell-based organoid models of the ovary/fallopian tube, endometrium, cervix, prostate gland, and testes. We will also describe organoid systems of the pre-implanting blastocyst and trophoblast, as the blastocyst and its extraembryonic trophectoderm are central to fetal, maternal, and overall pregnancy health. We describe the foundational studies leading to their development and outline the utility as well as specific limitations that are unique and common to many of these in vitro platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Haider
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander G Beristain
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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50
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Gao P, Zhuang J, Chen H, Fang Z, Zheng J, Zhu D, Hou J. 5-Aminolevulinic acid combined with ferrous iron ameliorates scrotal heat stress-induced spermatogenic damage by enhancing HO-1 expression. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:4999-5011. [PMID: 37086299 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08462-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore whether 5-Aminolevulinic acid combined with ferrous iron (5-ALA/Fe2+) could protect testicular tissues damage of mice subjected to heat stress (HS) and provide its underlying mechanisms. METHODS 5-ALA/Fe2+ was administered intragastrically to mice for 10 days, then exposed to a scrotal heat stress at 43°C for 20 min on third day. Testes were harvested for morphologic and histopathological examination, oxidative stress, apoptosis, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and inflammation detection. The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathway in testis and CD4+FoxP3+regulatory T (Treg) cells in spleen were also investigated. RESULTS Compared to control group, the testis weight decreased and histological damage severed in HS group. Besides, HS also increased the oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation in testis. However, these indicators were ameliorated after 5-ALA/Fe2+ treatment but deteriorated after receiving ZnPPIX. The expression of HO-1 was increased both in HS group and 5-ALA/Fe2+ group. The protein expression levels of MAPK proteins were activated by HS and inhibited by 5-ALA/Fe2+. The CD4+FoxP3+ Treg generation was reduced by HS and increased by 5-ALA/Fe2+. CONCLUSION In this study, we have demonstrated that 5-ALA/Fe2+ ameliorated the spermatogenic damage induced by scrotal heat stress via up-regulating the expression of HO-1 and inhibiting MAPK mediated oxidative stress and apoptosis and inducing CD4+Foxp3+ Tregs to inhibit the inflammation induced by HS in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Gao
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Jingming Zhuang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Haoran Chen
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Zujun Fang
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Daqian Zhu
- National Children's Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Jiangang Hou
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
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