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Stepanov YK, Herrmann C, Stöckl JB, Köhn FM, Pickl U, Trottmann M, Fröhlich T, Mayerhofer A, Welter H. Prolonged exposure to dexamethasone alters the proteome and cellular phenotype of human testicular peritubular cells. Proteomics 2024:e2300616. [PMID: 38419139 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202300616] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Human testicular peritubular cells (HTPCs) are smooth muscle cells, which in the testis form a small compartment surrounding the seminiferous tubules. Contractions of HTPCs are responsible for sperm transport, HTPCs contribute to spermatogenesis, have immunological roles and are a site of glucocorticoid receptor expression. Importantly, HTPCs maintain their characteristics in vitro, and thus can serve as an experimental window into the male gonad. Previously we reported consequences of 3-day treatment with Dexamethasone (Dex), a synthetic glucocorticoid and multi-purpose anti-inflammatory drug. However, as glucocorticoid therapies in man often last longer, we now studied consequences of a prolonged 7-day exposure to 1 µM Dex. Combining live cell imaging with quantative proteomics of samples taken from men, we confirmed our recent findings but more importantly, found numerous novel proteomic alterations induced by prolonged Dex treatment. The comparison of the 7-day treatment with the 3-day treatment dataset revealed that extracellular matrix- and focal adhesion-related proteins become more prominent after 7 days of treatment. In contrast, extended stimulation is, for example, associated with a decrease of proteins related to cholesterol and steroid metabolism. Our dataset, which describes phenotypic and proteomic alterations, is a valuable resource for further research projects investigating effects of Dex on human testicular cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youli K Stepanov
- Gene Center Munich, Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Carola Herrmann
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, AG Mayerhofer, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Jan B Stöckl
- Gene Center Munich, Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Gene Center Munich, Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, AG Mayerhofer, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Harald Welter
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, AG Mayerhofer, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
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2
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Arıcı A, Erdemir F. A Determination of p97/VCP (Valosin Containing Protein) and SVIP (Small VCP Interacting Protein) Expression Patterns in Human Testis. Medicina (Kaunas) 2023; 59:1079. [PMID: 37374283 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59061079] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The ubiquitin proteosome system (UPS) is a non-lysosomal pathway that functions in all eukaryotes. The transport of polyubiquitinated proteins to proteosomes takes place via the p97/Valosin-containing protein (VCP) chaperone protein. The p97/VCP binds to polyubiquitinated proteins, allowing these proteins to reach the proteasome and, thus, their destruction. In the case of p97/VCP deficiency, ubiquitinated proteins accumulate in the cell cytoplasm, and their subsequent failure to break down produces various pathological conditions. Small VCP interacting protein (SVIP) and p97/VCP proteins have not been studied in human testicular tissues from different postnatal periods. Therefore, in our study, we aimed to examine the expression of SVIP and p97/VCP in postnatal human testicular tissues. Our study aimed to contribute to further studies on the use of these proteins as testicular cell biomarkers in cases of unexplained male infertility. Materials and Methods: Immunohistochemical studies with the aim of determining the expression of p97/VCP and SVIP proteins in neonatal, prepubertal, pubertal, adult, and geriatric human testis tissues were performed. Results: In testicular sections obtained from a neonatal group, p97/VCP and SVIP were localized in different testicular and interstitial cells, and the lowest expression was observed in this group. While the expressions of these proteins were low in the neonatal period, they increased gradually in the prepubertal, pubertal and adult periods. The expression of p97/VCP and SVIP, which peaked in adulthood, showed a significant decrease in the geriatric period. Conclusions: As a result, the expression of p97/VCP and SVIP correlated with the increase in age, but it decreased significantly in older groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akgül Arıcı
- Department of Medical Pathology, Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, 60100 Tokat, Turkey
| | - Fikret Erdemir
- Department of Urology, Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, 60100 Tokat, Turkey
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Ribeiro MR, Calado AM, Alves Â, Pereira R, Sousa M, Sá R. Spatial Distribution of SARS-CoV-2 Receptors and Proteases in Testicular Cells. J Histochem Cytochem 2023; 71:169-197. [PMID: 37026452 PMCID: PMC10083717 DOI: 10.1369/00221554231168916] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). SARS-CoV-2 RNA has been found in the human testis on occasion, but subgenomic SARS-CoV-2 and infectious SARS-CoV-2 virions have not been found. There is no direct evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection of testicular cells. To better understand this, it is necessary to determine whether SARS-CoV-2 receptors and proteases are present in testicular cells. To overcome this limitation, we focused on elucidating with immunohistochemistry the spatial distribution of the SARS-CoV-2 receptors angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and cluster of differentiation 147 (CD147), as well as their viral spike protein priming proteases, transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) and cathepsin L (CTSL), required for viral fusion with host cells. At the protein level, human testicular tissue expressed both receptors and proteases studied. Both ACE2 and TMPRSS2 were found in interstitial cells (endothelium, Leydig, and myoid peritubular cells) and in the seminiferous epithelium (Sertoli cells, spermatogonia, spermatocytes, and spermatids). The presence of CD147 was observed in all cell types except endothelium and peritubular cells, while CTSL was exclusively observed in Leydig, peritubular, and Sertoli cells. These findings show that the ACE2 receptor and its protease TMPRSS2 are coexpressed in all testicular cells, as well as the CD147 receptor and its protease CTSL in Leydig and Sertoli cells, indicating that testicular SARS-CoV-2 infection cannot be ruled out without further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rita Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine / ITR - Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences (ECAV), CECAV - Interdisciplinary Research Center in Animal Health, Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Science (AL4AnimalS), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Ana Margarida Calado
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences (ECAV), CECAV - Interdisciplinary Research Center in Animal Health, Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Science (AL4AnimalS), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Ângela Alves
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine / ITR - Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rute Pereira
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine / ITR - Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mário Sousa
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine / ITR - Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rosália Sá
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine / ITR - Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Port, Portugal
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Dong F, Ping P, Ma Y, Chen XF. Application of single-cell RNA sequencing on human testicular samples: a comprehensive review. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:2167-2197. [PMID: 37151874 PMCID: PMC10158017 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.82191] [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: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
So far there has been no comprehensive review using systematic literature search strategies to show the application of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) in the human testis of the whole life cycle (from embryos to aging males). Here, we summarized the application of scRNA-seq analyses on various human testicular biological samples. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), focusing on English researches published after 2009. Articles related to GEO data-series were also retrieved in PubMed or BioRxiv. 81 full-length studies were finally included in the review. ScRNA-seq has been widely used on different human testicular samples with various library strategies, and new cell subtypes such as State 0 spermatogonial stem cells (SSC) and stage_a/b/c Sertoli cells (SC) were identified. For the development of normal testes, scRNA-seq-based evidence showed dynamic transcriptional changes of both germ cells and somatic cells from embryos to adults. And dysregulated metabolic signaling or hedgehog signaling were revealed by scRNA-seq in aged SC or Leydig cells (LC), respectively. For infertile males, scRNA-seq studies revealed profound changes of testes, such as the increased proportion of immature SC/LC of Klinefelter syndrome, the somatic immaturity and altered germline autophagy of patients with non-obstructive azoospermia, and the repressed differentiation of SSC in trans-females receiving testosterone inhibition therapy. Besides, the re-analyzing of public scRNA-seq data made further discoveries such as the potential vulnerability of testicular SARS-CoV-2 infection, and both evolutionary conservatism and divergence among species. ScRNA-seq analyses would unveil mechanisms of testes' development and changes so as to help developing novel treatments for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Dong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Ping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
- ✉ Corresponding author: Dr. Xiang-Feng Chen. Address: 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, P. R. China, 200135. Telephone: +86-21-20284500; Fax: +86-21-58394262; Email address: . Dr. Yi Ma. Address: 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, P. R. China, 200135. Telephone: +86-21-20284500; Fax: +86-21-58394262; Email address:
| | - Xiang-Feng Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai, China
- ✉ Corresponding author: Dr. Xiang-Feng Chen. Address: 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, P. R. China, 200135. Telephone: +86-21-20284500; Fax: +86-21-58394262; Email address: . Dr. Yi Ma. Address: 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, P. R. China, 200135. Telephone: +86-21-20284500; Fax: +86-21-58394262; Email address:
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Liebich A, Schmid N, Koupourtidou C, Herrmann C, Dietrich KG, Welter H, Ninkovic J, Mayerhofer A. The Molecular Signature of Human Testicular Peritubular Cells Revealed by Single-Cell Analysis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11223685. [PMID: 36429113 PMCID: PMC9688777 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223685] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Peritubular cells of the human testis form a small compartment surrounding the seminiferous tubules. They are crucial for sperm transport, and they emerge as contributors to the spermatogonial stem cell niche. They are among the least known cell types of the human body. We employed single-cell RNA sequencing of cultured human testicular peritubular cells (HTPCs), which had been isolated from testicular samples of donors with normal spermatogenesis. The significant overlap between our results and recently published ex vivo data indicates that HTPCs are a highly adequate cellular model to define and study these cells. Thus, based on the expression of several markers, HTPCs can be classified as testicular smooth muscle cells. Small differences between the in vivo/in vitro expressed genes may be due to cellular plasticity. Plasticity was also shown upon addition of FCS to the culture medium. Based on transcriptome similarities, four cellular states were identified. Further analyses confirmed the presence of known stem cell niche-relevant factors (e.g., GDNF) and identified unknown functions, e.g., the ability to produce retinoic acid. Therefore, HTPCs allow us to define the signature(s) and delineate the functions of human testicular peritubular cells. The data may also serve as a resource for future studies to better understand male (in)fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Liebich
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Nina Schmid
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Christina Koupourtidou
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Helmholtz Center Munich, Institute of Stem Cell Research, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Carola Herrmann
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Kim-Gwendolyn Dietrich
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Harald Welter
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Jovica Ninkovic
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Helmholtz Center Munich, Institute of Stem Cell Research, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-89-2180-75859
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Camacho-Moll ME, Looijenga LHJ, Donat R, Shukla CJ, Jørgensen A, Mitchell RT. Expression of Intermediate Filaments in the Developing Testis and Testicular Germ Cell Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5479. [PMID: 36428571 PMCID: PMC9688874 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14225479] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokeratin and desmin expression have been associated with Sertoli cell maturity and the development of testicular germ cell cancer (TGCC). Thus, the present study aimed to characterize the expression of these intermediate filaments in normal testis development and TGCC. Cytokeratin and desmin were determined by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence in human fetal, and adult testis and tissue from patients with pre-invasive germ cell neoplasia in-situ (GCNIS) or invasive TGCC. Desmin was expressed in Sertoli cells of the human fetal testis, and the proportion of desmin expressing Sertoli cells was significantly reduced in the second trimester, compared with the first trimester (31.14% vs. 6.74%, p = 0.0016). Additionally, Desmin was expressed in the majority of Sertoli cells in the adult testis and TGCC samples. Cytokeratin was detected in Sertoli cells of human fetal testis but was not expressed in Sertoli cells of human adult testis. In patients with TGCC, cytokeratin was not expressed in Sertoli cells in tubules with active spermatogenesis but was detected in Sertoli cells in tubules containing GCNIS cells in patients with both pre-invasive and invasive TGCC. In conclusion, desmin was not associated with Sertoli cell maturation or progression to TGCC. However, cytokeratin appeared to be an indicator of impaired Sertoli cell maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E. Camacho-Moll
- Department of Molecular Biology, Northeast Centre for Biomedical Research, Mexican Institute for Social Security, 2 de abril 501, Esq. San Luis Potosi, Col. Independencia, Monterrey C.P. 64720, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Leendert H. J. Looijenga
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Roland Donat
- Department of Urology, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, Scotland, UK
| | - Chitranjan J. Shukla
- Department of Urology, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, Scotland, UK
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rod T. Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, Scotland, UK
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7
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Stepanov YK, Speidel JD, Herrmann C, Schmid N, Behr R, Köhn FM, Stöckl JB, Pickl U, Trottmann M, Fröhlich T, Mayerhofer A, Welter H. Profound Effects of Dexamethasone on the Immunological State, Synthesis and Secretion Capacity of Human Testicular Peritubular Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193164. [PMID: 36231125 PMCID: PMC9562650 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193164] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The functions of human testicular peritubular cells (HTPCs), forming a small compartment located between the seminiferous epithelium and the interstitial areas of the testis, are not fully known but go beyond intratesticular sperm transport and include immunological roles. The expression of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) indicates that they may be regulated by glucocorticoids (GCs). Herein, we studied the consequences of the GC dexamethasone (Dex) in cultured HTPCs, which serves as a unique window into the human testis. We examined changes in cytokines, mainly by qPCR and ELISA. A holistic mass-spectrometry-based proteome analysis of cellular and secreted proteins was also performed. Dex, used in a therapeutic concentration, decreased the transcript level of proinflammatory cytokines, e.g., IL6, IL8 and MCP1. An siRNA-mediated knockdown of GR reduced the actions on IL6. Changes in IL6 were confirmed by ELISA measurements. Of note, Dex also lowered GR levels. The proteomic results revealed strong responses after 24 h (31 significantly altered cellular proteins) and more pronounced ones after 72 h of Dex exposure (30 less abundant and 42 more abundant cellular proteins). Dex also altered the composition of the secretome (33 proteins decreased, 13 increased) after 72 h. Among the regulated proteins were extracellular matrix (ECM) and basement membrane components (e.g., FBLN2, COL1A2 and COL3A1), as well as PTX3 and StAR. These results pinpoint novel, profound effects of Dex in HTPCs. If transferrable to the human testis, changes specifically in ECM and the immunological state of the testis may occur in men upon treatment with Dex for medical reasons.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Dominik Speidel
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Carola Herrmann
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Nina Schmid
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Behr
- Platform Degenerative Diseases, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Jan Bernd Stöckl
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, LMU München, 81377 München, Germany
| | | | | | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, LMU München, 81377 München, Germany
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Correspondence: (A.M.); (H.W.); Tel.: +49-89218075859 (A.M.); +49-89218071882 (H.W.)
| | - Harald Welter
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Correspondence: (A.M.); (H.W.); Tel.: +49-89218075859 (A.M.); +49-89218071882 (H.W.)
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Campolo F, Capponi C, Tarsitano MG, Tenuta M, Pozza C, Gianfrilli D, Magliocca F, Venneri MA, Vicini E, Lenzi A, Isidori AM, Barbagallo F. cAMP-specific phosphodiesterase 8A and 8B isoforms are differentially expressed in human testis and Leydig cell tumor. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1010924. [PMID: 36277728 PMCID: PMC9585345 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1010924] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclic adenosine monophosphate/Protein kinase A (cAMP/PKA) signaling pathway is the master regulator of endocrine tissue function. The level, compartmentalization and amplitude of cAMP response are finely regulated by phosphodiesterases (PDEs). PDE8 is responsible of cAMP hydrolysis and its expression has been characterized in all steroidogenic cell types in rodents including adrenal and Leydig cells in rodents however scarce data are currently available in humans. Here we demonstrate that human Leydig cells express both PDE8A and PDE8B isoforms. Interestingly, we found that the expression of PDE8B but not of PDE8A is increased in transformed Leydig cells (Leydig cell tumors-LCTs) compared to non-tumoral cells. Immunofluorescence analyses further reveals that PDE8A is also highly expressed in specific spermatogenic stages. While the protein is not detected in spermatogonia it accumulates nearby the forming acrosome, in the trans-Golgi apparatus of spermatocytes and spermatids and it follows the fate of this organelle in the later stages translocating to the caudal part of the cell. Taken together our findings suggest that 1) a specific pool(s) of cAMP is/are regulated by PDE8A during spermiogenesis pointing out a possible new role of this PDE8 isoform in key events governing the differentiation and maturation of human sperm and 2) PDE8B can be involved in Leydig cell transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Campolo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Capponi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Tarsitano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Marta Tenuta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlotta Pozza
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Gianfrilli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Magliocca
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mary A. Venneri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Vicini
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea M. Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Barbagallo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
- *Correspondence: Federica Barbagallo,
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Panza S, Giordano F, De Rose D, Panno ML, De Amicis F, Santoro M, Malivindi R, Rago V, Aquila S. FSH-R Human Early Male Genital Tract, Testicular Tumors and Sperm: Its Involvement in Testicular Disorders. Life (Basel) 2020; 10:life10120336. [PMID: 33317204 PMCID: PMC7764367 DOI: 10.3390/life10120336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSH-R) expression was always considered human gonad-specific. The receptor has also been newly detected in extragonadal tissues. In this finding, we evaluated FSH-R expression in the human male early genital tract, in testicular tumors, and in sperm from healthy and varicocele patients. In sperm, we also studied the mechanism of FSH-R action. Immunohystochemistry and Western blot analysis showed FSH-R presence in the first pathways of the human genital tract, in embryonal carcinoma, and in sperm, but it was absent in seminoma and in lower varicocele. In sperm, FSH/FSH-R activity is mediated by G proteins activating the PKA pathway, as we observed by using the H89. It emerged that increasing FSH treatments induced motility, survival, capacitation, and acrosome reaction in both sperm samples. The different FSH-R expression in tumor testicular tissues may be discriminate by tumor histological type. In spermatozoa, FSH-R indicates a direct action of FSH in these cells, which could be beneficial during semen preparation for in vitro fertilization procedures. For instance, FSH positive effects could be relevant in idiopathic infertility and in the clinic surgery of varicocele. In conclusion, FSH-R expression may be considered a molecular marker of testicular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Panza
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (S.P.); (F.G.); (D.D.R.); (M.L.P.); (F.D.A.); (M.S.); (R.M.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Francesca Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (S.P.); (F.G.); (D.D.R.); (M.L.P.); (F.D.A.); (M.S.); (R.M.); (S.A.)
| | - Daniela De Rose
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (S.P.); (F.G.); (D.D.R.); (M.L.P.); (F.D.A.); (M.S.); (R.M.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Panno
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (S.P.); (F.G.); (D.D.R.); (M.L.P.); (F.D.A.); (M.S.); (R.M.); (S.A.)
| | - Francesca De Amicis
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (S.P.); (F.G.); (D.D.R.); (M.L.P.); (F.D.A.); (M.S.); (R.M.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Marta Santoro
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (S.P.); (F.G.); (D.D.R.); (M.L.P.); (F.D.A.); (M.S.); (R.M.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Rocco Malivindi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (S.P.); (F.G.); (D.D.R.); (M.L.P.); (F.D.A.); (M.S.); (R.M.); (S.A.)
| | - Vittoria Rago
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (S.P.); (F.G.); (D.D.R.); (M.L.P.); (F.D.A.); (M.S.); (R.M.); (S.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-09-8449-6210; Fax: +39-09-8449-3271
| | - Saveria Aquila
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (S.P.); (F.G.); (D.D.R.); (M.L.P.); (F.D.A.); (M.S.); (R.M.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria—Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
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10
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Welter H, Herrmann C, Fröhlich T, Flenkenthaler F, Eubler K, Schorle H, Nettersheim D, Mayerhofer A, Müller-Taubenberger A. Filamin A Orchestrates Cytoskeletal Structure, Cell Migration and Stem Cell Characteristics in Human Seminoma TCam-2 Cells. Cells 2020; 9:E2563. [PMID: 33266100 PMCID: PMC7761120 DOI: 10.3390/cells9122563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Filamins are large dimeric F-actin cross-linking proteins, crucial for the mechanosensitive properties of a number of cell types. Due to their interaction with a variety of different proteins, they exert important regulatory functions. However, in the human testis the role of filamins has been insufficiently explored. Immunohistochemical staining of human testis samples identified filamin A (FLNA) in spermatogonia and peritubular myoid cells. Investigation of different testicular tumor samples indicated that seminoma also express FLNA. Moreover, mass spectrometric analyses identified FLNA as one of the most abundant proteins in human seminoma TCam-2 cells. We therefore focused on FLNA in TCam-2 cells, and identified by co-immunoprecipitation LAD1, RUVBL1 and DAZAP1, in addition to several cytoskeletal proteins, as interactors of FLNA. To study the role of FLNA in TCam-2 cells, we generated FLNA-deficient cells using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Loss of FLNA causes an irregular arrangement of the actin cytoskeleton and mechanical instability, impaired adhesive properties and disturbed migratory behavior. Furthermore, transcriptional activity of typical stem cell factors is increased in the absence of FLNA. In summary, our data suggest that FLNA is crucially involved in balancing stem cell characteristics and invasive properties in human seminoma cells and possibly human testicular germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Welter
- Anatomy III, Cell Biology, Biomedical Center, Ludwig Maximillian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg, Martinsried, Germany; (H.W.); (C.H.); (K.E.); (A.M.-T.)
| | - Carola Herrmann
- Anatomy III, Cell Biology, Biomedical Center, Ludwig Maximillian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg, Martinsried, Germany; (H.W.); (C.H.); (K.E.); (A.M.-T.)
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (T.F.); (F.F.)
| | - Florian Flenkenthaler
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (T.F.); (F.F.)
| | - Katja Eubler
- Anatomy III, Cell Biology, Biomedical Center, Ludwig Maximillian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg, Martinsried, Germany; (H.W.); (C.H.); (K.E.); (A.M.-T.)
| | - Hubert Schorle
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Daniel Nettersheim
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany;
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Anatomy III, Cell Biology, Biomedical Center, Ludwig Maximillian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg, Martinsried, Germany; (H.W.); (C.H.); (K.E.); (A.M.-T.)
| | - Annette Müller-Taubenberger
- Anatomy III, Cell Biology, Biomedical Center, Ludwig Maximillian University of Munich, 82152 Planegg, Martinsried, Germany; (H.W.); (C.H.); (K.E.); (A.M.-T.)
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11
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Eliveld J, van Daalen SKM, de Winter-Korver CM, van der Veen F, Repping S, Teerds K, van Pelt AMM. A comparative analysis of human adult testicular cells expressing stem Leydig cell markers in the interstitium, vasculature, and peritubular layer. Andrology 2020; 8:1265-1276. [PMID: 32416031 PMCID: PMC7496384 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Origin of human adult Leydig cells (ALCs) is not well understood. This might be partly due to limited data available on the identification and location of human precursor and stem Leydig cells (SLCs) which hampers the study on the development of ALCs. Objectives The aim of the present study was to investigate whether described human (PDGFRα, NGFR) and rodent (NES, PDGFRα, THY1, NR2F2) SLC markers are expressed by a common cell population within human adult testicular interstitial cells in vivo and before and after in vitro propagation. Materials and methods Immunohistochemical analyses were used to identify localization of human adult testicular interstitial cells expressing described SLC markers. Next, interstitial cells were isolated and cultured. The percentage of cells expressing one or more SLC markers was determined before and after culture using flow cytometry. Results NR2F2 and PDGFRα were present in peritubular, perivascular, and Leydig cells, while THY1 was expressed in peritubular and perivascular cells. Although NES and NGFR were expressed in endothelial cells, co‐localization with PDGFRα was found for both in vitro, although for NGFR only after culture. All marker positive cells were able to undergo propagation in vitro. Discussion The partly overlap in localization and overlap in expression in human testicular cells indicate that PDGFRα, NR2F2, and THY1 are expressed within the same ALC developmental lineage from SLCs. Based on the in vitro results, this is also true for NES and after in vitro propagation for NGFR. Conclusion Our results that earlier described SLC markers are expressed in overlapping human interstitial cell population opens up further research strategies aiming for a better insight in the Leydig cell lineage and will be helpful for development of strategies to cure ALC dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitske Eliveld
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia K M van Daalen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cindy M de Winter-Korver
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fulco van der Veen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Katja Teerds
- Department of Animal Sciences, Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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12
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Winge SB, Soraggi S, Schierup MH, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Almstrup K. Integration and reanalysis of transcriptomics and methylomics data derived from blood and testis tissue of men with 47,XXY Klinefelter syndrome indicates the primary involvement of Sertoli cells in the testicular pathogenesis. Am J Med Genet C Semin Med Genet 2020; 184:239-255. [PMID: 32449318 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Klinefelter syndrome (KS; 47,XXY) is the most common sex chromosomal anomaly and causes a multitude of symptoms. Often the most noticeable symptom is infertility caused by azoospermia with testicular histology showing hyalinization of tubules, germ cells loss, and Leydig cell hyperplasia. The germ cell loss begins early in life leading to partial hyalinization of the testis at puberty, but the mechanistic drivers behind this remain poorly understood. In this systematic review, we summarize the current knowledge on developmental changes in the cellularity of KS gonads supplemented by a comparative analysis of the fetal and adult gonadal transcriptome, and blood transcriptome and methylome of men with KS. We identified a high fraction of upregulated genes that escape X-chromosome inactivation, thus supporting previous hypotheses that these are the main drivers of the testicular phenotype in KS. Enrichment analysis showed overrepresentation of genes from the X- and Y-chromosome and testicular transcription factors. Furthermore, by re-evaluation of recent single cell RNA-sequencing data originating from adult KS testis, we found novel evidence that the Sertoli cell is the most affected cell type. Our results are consistent with disturbed cross-talk between somatic and germ cells in the KS testis, and with X-escapee genes acting as mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia B Winge
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Bioinformatics Research Centre, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Samuele Soraggi
- Bioinformatics Research Centre, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Ewa Rajpert-De Meyts
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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13
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Welter H, Herrmann C, Dellweg N, Missel A, Thanisch C, Urbanski HF, Köhn FM, Schwarzer JU, Müller-Taubenberger A, Mayerhofer A. The Glucocorticoid Receptor NR3C1 in Testicular Peritubular Cells is Developmentally Regulated and Linked to the Smooth Muscle-Like Cellular Phenotype. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E961. [PMID: 32244354 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9040961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Whether glucocorticoids (GC) can directly affect human testicular functions is not well understood. A predominant site of GC receptor (GR; NR3C1) expression in the adult testis are peritubular smooth muscle-like cells, which express smooth muscle actin (ACTA2), contract and thereby are involved in sperm transport. In contrast to the adult, neither GR nor ACTA2, or elastin (ELN) were detected in the peritubular compartment before puberty in non-human primate testes. In isolated human testicular peritubular cells (HTPCs), activation of GR by dexamethasone (Dex) caused the translocation of GR to the nucleus and stimulated expression of ACTA2 and ELN, without affecting the expression of collagens. Cytoskeletal ACTA2-rearrangements were observed and were associated with an increased ability to contract. Our results indicate post-pubertal testicular roles of GC in the maintenance of the contractile, smooth muscle-like phenotype of peritubular cells.
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14
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Governini L, Semplici B, Pavone V, Crifasi L, Marrocco C, De Leo V, Arlt E, Gudermann T, Boekhoff I, Luddi A, Piomboni P. Expression of Taste Receptor 2 Subtypes in Human Testis and Sperm. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E264. [PMID: 31963712 PMCID: PMC7019805 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9010264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Taste receptors (TASRs) are expressed not only in the oral cavity but also throughout the body, thus suggesting that they may play different roles in organ systems beyond the tongue. Recent studies showed the expression of several TASRs in mammalian testis and sperm, indicating an involvement of these receptors in male gametogenesis and fertility. This notion is supported by an impaired reproductive phenotype of mouse carrying targeted deletion of taste receptor genes, as well as by a significant correlation between human semen parameters and specific polymorphisms of taste receptor genes. To better understand the biological and thus clinical significance of these receptors for human reproduction, we analyzed the expression of several members of the TAS2Rs family of bitter receptors in human testis and in ejaculated sperm before and after in vitro selection and capacitation. Our results provide evidence for the expression of TAS2R genes, with TAS2R14 being the most expressed bitter receptor subtype in both testis tissue and sperm cells, respectively. In addition, it was observed that in vitro capacitation significantly affects both the expression and the subcellular localization of these receptors in isolated spermatozoa. Interestingly, α-gustducin and α-transducin, two Gα subunits expressed in taste buds on the tongue, are also expressed in human spermatozoa; moreover, a subcellular redistribution of both G protein α-subunits to different sub-compartments of sperm was registered upon in vitro capacitation. Finally, we shed light on the possible downstream transduction pathway initiated upon taste receptor activation in the male reproductive system. Performing ultrasensitive droplets digital PCR assays to quantify RNA copy numbers of a distinct gene, we found a significant correlation between the expression of TAS2Rs and TRPM5 (r = 0.87), the cation channel involved in bitter but also sweet and umami taste transduction in taste buds on the tongue. Even if further studies are needed to clarify the precise functional role of taste receptors for successful reproduction, the presented findings significantly extend our knowledge of the biological role of TAS2Rs for human male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Governini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Siena University, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.G.); (B.S.); (V.P.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (V.D.L.); (P.P.)
| | - Bianca Semplici
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Siena University, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.G.); (B.S.); (V.P.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (V.D.L.); (P.P.)
| | - Valentina Pavone
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Siena University, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.G.); (B.S.); (V.P.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (V.D.L.); (P.P.)
| | - Laura Crifasi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Siena University, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.G.); (B.S.); (V.P.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (V.D.L.); (P.P.)
| | - Camilla Marrocco
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Siena University, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.G.); (B.S.); (V.P.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (V.D.L.); (P.P.)
| | - Vincenzo De Leo
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Siena University, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.G.); (B.S.); (V.P.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (V.D.L.); (P.P.)
| | - Elisabeth Arlt
- Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, LMU Munich, 80336 Muenchen, Germany; (E.A.); (T.G.); (I.B.)
| | - Thomas Gudermann
- Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, LMU Munich, 80336 Muenchen, Germany; (E.A.); (T.G.); (I.B.)
| | - Ingrid Boekhoff
- Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, LMU Munich, 80336 Muenchen, Germany; (E.A.); (T.G.); (I.B.)
| | - Alice Luddi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Siena University, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.G.); (B.S.); (V.P.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (V.D.L.); (P.P.)
| | - Paola Piomboni
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Siena University, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.G.); (B.S.); (V.P.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (V.D.L.); (P.P.)
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15
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Eubler K, Herrmann C, Tiefenbacher A, Köhn FM, Schwarzer JU, Kunz L, Mayerhofer A. Ca 2+ Signaling and IL-8 Secretion in Human Testicular Peritubular Cells Involve the Cation Channel TRPV2. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092829. [PMID: 30235802 PMCID: PMC6165404 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Peritubular cells are part of the wall of seminiferous tubules in the human testis and their contractile abilities are important for sperm transport. In addition, they have immunological roles. A proteomic analysis of isolated human testicular peritubular cells (HTPCs) revealed expression of the transient receptor potential channel subfamily V member 2 (TRPV2). This cation channel is linked to mechano-sensation and to immunological processes and inflammation in other organs. We verified expression of TRPV2 in peritubular cells in human sections by immunohistochemistry. It was also found in other testicular cells, including Sertoli cells and interstitial cells. In cultured HTPCs, application of cannabidiol (CBD), a known TRPV2 agonist, acutely induced a transient increase in intracellular Ca2+ levels. These Ca2+ transients could be blocked both by ruthenium red, an unspecific Ca2+ channel blocker, and tranilast (TRA), an antagonist of TRPV2, and were also abolished when extracellular Ca2+ was removed. Taken together this indicates functional TRPV2 channels in peritubular cells. When applied for 24 to 48 h, CBD induced expression of proinflammatory factors. In particular, mRNA and secreted protein levels of the proinflammatory chemokine interleukin-8 (IL-8/CXCL8) were elevated. Via its known roles as a major mediator of the inflammatory response and as an angiogenic factor, this chemokine may play a role in testicular physiology and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Eubler
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Carola Herrmann
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Astrid Tiefenbacher
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
| | | | | | - Lars Kunz
- Division of Neurobiology, Department of Biology II, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
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16
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Desdoits-Lethimonier C, Lesné L, Gaudriault P, Zalko D, Antignac JP, Deceuninck Y, Platel C, Dejucq-Rainsford N, Mazaud-Guittot S, Jégou B. Parallel assessment of the effects of bisphenol A and several of its analogs on the adult human testis. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:1465-1473. [PMID: 28482050 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [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: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are bisphenol A (BPA) and BPA analogs (BPA-A) safe for male human reproductive function? SUMMARY ANSWER The endocrine function of human testes explants [assessed by measuring testosterone and insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3)] was impacted by exposure of the human adult testis explants to BPA/BPA-A. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The few epidemiologic studies performed suggest that bisphenols have potential endocrine disruptive properties, but they did not identify clear and direct patterns of endocrine disruption. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Adult human testis explants in culture were exposed to BPA and the analogs bisphenol F (BPF), bisphenol S (BPS), bisphenol E (BPE), bisphenol B (BPB) and bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE) at 10-9-10-5 M for 24 or 48 h. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human adult testes were obtained from prostate cancer patients who had no hormone therapy, or from multiorgan donors. After ex vivo exposure to the investigated bisphenols, the measured outcomes were related to histopathology (gross morphology and germ cell viability determined by anti-caspase three immunohistochemistry), and the levels of testosterone, INSL3 and inhibin B were measured using immunoassays. The levels of mRNA encoding key enzymes of bisphenol biotransformation were investigated by quantitative PCR: UGT2B15 UDP (glucuronosyltransferase two family, polypeptide B15), GUSB (glucuronidase beta), SULT1A1 and 3 (sulfotransferase family 1 A member 1 and 3) and STS (steroid sulfatase). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A significant dose-dependent inhibition was found between testosterone levels measured in the culture medium and concentrations of BPA (P = 0.00778 at 24 h and P = 0.0291 at 48 h), BPE (P = 0.039) and BPF (P = 0.00663). The observed BPA and BPA-A-induced inhibition of testosterone production varied according to duration of exposure and BPA/BPA-A concentrations. BPA (10-9 M; P < 0.05), BPB (10-9 M; P < 0.05), BPS (10-9 and 10-8 M; P < 0.05) and BADGE (10-5 M; P < 0.05) increased Leydig cell INSL3 production. By contrast, BPE dose dependently inhibited INSL3 (P = 0.0372). Conversely, Sertoli cell function (inhibin B) and germ cell viability were not significantly affected by either bisphenols. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Environmental compounds cannot be deliberately administered to men, justifying the use of an ex vivo approach. A relatively low number of testes samples were available for analysis (n = 3, except for testosterone secretion with n = 5). The active concentrations of BPA and BPA-A used in the study were higher than those found in human biological fluids. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Under our experimental conditions, direct exposure to BPA or BPA-A can result in endocrine disturbance in the adult human testis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by Inserm (Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale), EHESP-School of Public Health, University of Rennes1, by grants from the Agence Nationale de la Recherche (ANR; grant#ANR-13-CESA-0012-03 NEWPLAST) and Agence Nationale de Sécurité Sanitaire de l'Alimentation, de l'Environnement et du Travail (ANSES; grant#EST-2010/2/046 (BPATESTIS)). All authors declare they have no current or potential competing financial interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Desdoits-Lethimonier
- Inserm (Institut National de la santé et de la recherche médicale), Irset - Inserm UMR 1085 (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, CEDEX, France.,Université de Rennes I, 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | - L Lesné
- Inserm (Institut National de la santé et de la recherche médicale), Irset - Inserm UMR 1085 (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, CEDEX, France.,Université de Rennes I, 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | - P Gaudriault
- Inserm (Institut National de la santé et de la recherche médicale), Irset - Inserm UMR 1085 (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, CEDEX, France.,Université de Rennes I, 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | - D Zalko
- Toxalim (Research Centre in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRA, ENVT, INP-Purpan, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - J P Antignac
- Oniris UMR INRA 1329 LABERCA (Laboratoire d'Etude des Résidus et des Contaminants dans les aliments), La Chantrerie, Nantes, France
| | - Y Deceuninck
- Oniris UMR INRA 1329 LABERCA (Laboratoire d'Etude des Résidus et des Contaminants dans les aliments), La Chantrerie, Nantes, France
| | - C Platel
- CHU Rennes, Unité de coordination hospitalière des prélèvements d'organes et de tissus, 2 rue Henri Guilloux 35000 Rennes, France
| | - N Dejucq-Rainsford
- Inserm (Institut National de la santé et de la recherche médicale), Irset - Inserm UMR 1085 (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, CEDEX, France.,Université de Rennes I, 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | - S Mazaud-Guittot
- Inserm (Institut National de la santé et de la recherche médicale), Irset - Inserm UMR 1085 (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, CEDEX, France.,Université de Rennes I, 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | - B Jégou
- Inserm (Institut National de la santé et de la recherche médicale), Irset - Inserm UMR 1085 (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, CEDEX, France.,EHESP-School of Public Health, 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, France
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17
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Neuhaus N, Yoon J, Terwort N, Kliesch S, Seggewiss J, Huge A, Voss R, Schlatt S, Grindberg RV, Schöler HR. Single-cell gene expression analysis reveals diversity among human spermatogonia. Mol Hum Reprod 2018; 23:79-90. [PMID: 28093458 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [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: 06/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the molecular profile of human spermatogonia homogeneous or heterogeneous when analysed at the single-cell level? SUMMARY ANSWER Heterogeneous expression profiles may be a key characteristic of human spermatogonia, supporting the existence of a heterogeneous stem cell population. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Despite the fact that many studies have sought to identify specific markers for human spermatogonia, the molecular fingerprint of these cells remains hitherto unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Testicular tissues from patients with spermatogonial arrest (arrest, n = 1) and with qualitatively normal spermatogenesis (normal, n = 7) were selected from a pool of 179 consecutively obtained biopsies. Gene expression analyses of cell populations and single-cells (n = 105) were performed. Two OCT4-positive individual cells were selected for global transcriptional capture using shallow RNA-seq. Finally, expression of four candidate markers was assessed by immunohistochemistry. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Histological analysis and blood hormone measurements for LH, FSH and testosterone were performed prior to testicular sample selection. Following enzymatic digestion of testicular tissues, differential plating and subsequent micromanipulation of individual cells was employed to enrich and isolate human spermatogonia, respectively. Endpoint analyses were qPCR analysis of cell populations and individual cells, shallow RNA-seq and immunohistochemical analyses. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Unexpectedly, single-cell expression data from the arrest patient (20 cells) showed heterogeneous expression profiles. Also, from patients with normal spermatogenesis, heterogeneous expression patterns of undifferentiated (OCT4, UTF1 and MAGE A4) and differentiated marker genes (BOLL and PRM2) were obtained within each spermatogonia cluster (13 clusters with 85 cells). Shallow RNA-seq analysis of individual human spermatogonia was validated, and a spermatogonia-specific heterogeneous protein expression of selected candidate markers (DDX5, TSPY1, EEF1A1 and NGN3) was demonstrated. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The heterogeneity of human spermatogonia at the RNA and protein levels is a snapshot. To further assess the functional meaning of this heterogeneity and the dynamics of stem cell populations, approaches need to be developed to facilitate the repeated analysis of individual cells. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our data suggest that heterogeneous expression profiles may be a key characteristic of human spermatogonia, supporting the model of a heterogeneous stem cell population. Future studies will assess the dynamics of spermatogonial populations in fertile and infertile patients. LARGE SCALE DATA RNA-seq data is published in the GEO database: GSE91063. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the Max Planck Society and the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft DFG-Research Unit FOR 1041 Germ Cell Potential (grant numbers SCHO 340/7-1, SCHL394/11-2). The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - J Yoon
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - N Terwort
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - S Kliesch
- Department of Clinical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - J Seggewiss
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Münster, Vesaliusweg 12-14, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - A Huge
- Core Facility Genomik, Medical Faculty of Münster, Domagkstrasse 3, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - R Voss
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research in the Faculty of Medicine, Domagkstrasse 3, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - S Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster , Germany
| | - R V Grindberg
- University Hospital Zurich, Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, 8091 Zurich , Switzerland
| | - H R Schöler
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, 48149 Münster , Germany
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18
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Pendergraft SS, Sadri-Ardekani H, Atala A, Bishop CE. Three-dimensional testicular organoid: a novel tool for the study of human spermatogenesis and gonadotoxicity in vitro. Biol Reprod 2017; 96:720-732. [PMID: 28339648 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.143446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [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: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Existing methods for evaluating the potential gonadotoxicity of environmental agents and pharmaceutical compounds rely heavily on animal studies. The current gold standard in vivo functional assays in animals are limited in their human predictive capacity. In addition, existing human two-dimensional in vitro models of testicular toxicity do not accurately reflect the in vivo situation. A more reliable testicular in vitro model system is needed to better assess the gonadotoxic potential of drugs prior to progression into clinical trials. The overall goal of this study was to develop a three-dimensional (3D) in vitro human testis organoid culture system for use as both a predictive first tier drug-screening tool and as a model of human testicular function. Multicellular human testicular organoids composed of Spermatogonial Stem Cells, Sertoli, Leydig and peritubular cells were created and evaluated over time for morphology, viability, androgen production and ability to support germ cell differentiation. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay measurements confirmed that the organoids produced testosterone continuously with and without hCG stimulation. Upregulation of postmeiotic genes including PRM1 and Acrosin, detected by quantitative-PCR, digital PCR and Immunofluorescence, indicated the transition of a small percentage of diploid to haploid germ cells. As a novel screening tool for reproductive toxicity, 3D organoids were exposed to four chemotherapeutic drugs, and they responded in a dose-dependent manner and maintained IC50 values significantly higher than 2D cultures. This 3D human testis organoid system has the potential to be used as a novel testicular toxicity-screening tool and in vitro model for human spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel S Pendergraft
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hooman Sadri-Ardekani
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Colin E Bishop
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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19
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Manku G, Culty M. Regulation of Translocator Protein 18 kDa (TSPO) Expression in Rat and Human Male Germ Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:E1486. [PMID: 27608010 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17091486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Revised: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) is a high affinity cholesterol- and drug-binding protein highly expressed in steroidogenic cells, such as Leydig cells, where it plays a role in cholesterol mitochondrial transport. We have previously shown that TSPO is expressed in postnatal day 3 rat gonocytes, precursors of spermatogonial stem cells. Gonocytes undergo regulated phases of proliferation and migration, followed by retinoic acid (RA)-induced differentiation. Understanding these processes is important since their disruption may lead to the formation of carcinoma in situ, a precursor of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs). Previously, we showed that TSPO ligands do not regulate gonocyte proliferation. In the present study, we found that TSPO expression is downregulated in differentiating gonocytes. Similarly, in F9 embryonal carcinoma cells, a mouse TGCT cell line with embryonic stem cell properties, there is a significant decrease in TSPO expression during RA-induced differentiation. Silencing TSPO expression in gonocytes increased the stimulatory effect of RA on the expression of the differentiation marker Stra8, suggesting that TSPO exerts a repressive role on differentiation. Furthermore, in normal human testes, TSPO was located not only in Leydig cells, but also in discrete spermatogenic phases such as the forming acrosome of round spermatids. By contrast, seminomas, the most common type of TGCT, presented high levels of TSPO mRNA. TSPO protein was expressed in the cytoplasmic compartment of seminoma cells, identified by their nuclear expression of the transcription factors OCT4 and AP2G. Thus, TSPO appears to be tightly regulated during germ cell differentiation, and to be deregulated in seminomas, suggesting a role in germ cell development and pathology.
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20
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Montanaro D, Santoro M, Carpino A, Perrotta I, De Amicis F, Sirianni R, Rago V, Gervasi S, Aquila S. Human sperm liver receptor homolog-1 (LRH-1) acts as a downstream target of the estrogen signaling pathway. J Anat 2015; 227:541-9. [PMID: 26241668 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, the study of human sperm anatomy, at molecular level, has revealed the presence of several nuclear protein receptors. In this work, we examined the expression profile and the ultrastructural localization of liver receptor homolog-1 (LRH-1) in human spermatozoa. We evidenced the presence of the receptor by Western blotting and real time-RT-PCR. Furthermore, we used immunogold electron microscopy to investigate the sperm anatomical regions containing LRH-1. The receptor was mainly located in the sperm head, whereas its expression was reduced in the neck and across the tail. Interestingly, we observed the presence of LRH-1 in different stages of testicular germ cell development by immunohistochemistry. In somatic cells, it has been suggested that the LRH-1 pathway is tightly linked with estrogen signaling and the important role of estradiol has been widely studied in sperm cells. To assess the significance of LRH-1 in male gametes and to deepen understanding of the role of estrogens in these cells, we investigated important sperm features such as motility, survival and capacitation. Spermatozoa were treated with 10 nm estradiol and the inhibition of LRH-1 reversed the estradiol stimulatory action. From our data, we discovered that human spermatozoa can be considered a new site of expression for LRH-1, evidencing its role in sperm motility, survival and cholesterol efflux. Furthermore, we may presume that in spermatozoa the LRH-1 effects are closely integrated with the estrogen signaling, supporting LRH-1 as a downstream effector of the estradiol pathway on some sperm functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Montanaro
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (Cosenza), Italy
| | - Marta Santoro
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (Cosenza), Italy.,Post-graduate School in Clinical Pathology, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (Cosenza), Italy
| | - Amalia Carpino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (Cosenza), Italy
| | - Ida Perrotta
- Department of Di BEST, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Francesca De Amicis
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (Cosenza), Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (Cosenza), Italy
| | - Rosa Sirianni
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (Cosenza), Italy
| | - Vittoria Rago
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (Cosenza), Italy
| | | | - Saveria Aquila
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (Cosenza), Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (Cosenza), Italy
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21
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Silva JV, Yoon S, Domingues S, Guimarães S, Goltsev AV, da Cruz E Silva EF, Mendes JFF, da Cruz E Silva OAB, Fardilha M. Amyloid precursor protein interaction network in human testis: sentinel proteins for male reproduction. BMC Bioinformatics 2015; 16:12. [PMID: 25591988 PMCID: PMC4384327 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-014-0432-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyloid precursor protein (APP) is widely recognized for playing a central role in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis. Although APP is expressed in several tissues outside the human central nervous system, the functions of APP and its family members in other tissues are still poorly understood. APP is involved in several biological functions which might be potentially important for male fertility, such as cell adhesion, cell motility, signaling, and apoptosis. Furthermore, APP superfamily members are known to be associated with fertility. Knowledge on the protein networks of APP in human testis and spermatozoa will shed light on the function of APP in the male reproductive system. RESULTS We performed a Yeast Two-Hybrid screen and a database search to study the interaction network of APP in human testis and sperm. To gain insights into the role of APP superfamily members in fertility, the study was extended to APP-like protein 2 (APLP2). We analyzed several topological properties of the APP interaction network and the biological and physiological properties of the proteins in the APP interaction network were also specified by gene ontologyand pathways analyses. We classified significant features related to the human male reproduction for the APP interacting proteins and identified modules of proteins with similar functional roles which may show cooperative behavior for male fertility. CONCLUSIONS The present work provides the first report on the APP interactome in human testis. Our approach allowed the identification of novel interactions and recognition of key APP interacting proteins for male reproduction, particularly in sperm-oocyte interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Vieira Silva
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Centre for Cell Biology, Health Sciences Department and Biology Department, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Sooyeon Yoon
- Department of Physics, I3N, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Sara Domingues
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, Centre for Cell Biology, Health Sciences Department and Biology Department, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Sofia Guimarães
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, Centre for Cell Biology, Health Sciences Department and Biology Department, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Alexander V Goltsev
- Department of Physics, I3N, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Edgar Figueiredo da Cruz E Silva
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Centre for Cell Biology, Health Sciences Department and Biology Department, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | | | - Odete Abreu Beirão da Cruz E Silva
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, Centre for Cell Biology, Health Sciences Department and Biology Department, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Centre for Cell Biology, Health Sciences Department and Biology Department, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
- Centro de Biologia Celular, SACS, Edifício 30, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
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22
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Petersen PM, Seierøe K, Pakkenberg B. The total number of Leydig and Sertoli cells in the testes of men across various age groups - a stereological study. J Anat 2014; 226:175-9. [PMID: 25545958 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to estimate the total number of Sertoli and Leydig cells in testes from male subjects across the human lifespan, using an optimized stereological method for cell-counting. In comparison with many other organs, estimation of the total cell numbers in the testes is particularly sensitive to methodological problems. Therefore, using the optical fractionator technique and a sampling design specifically optimized for human testes, we estimated the total number of Sertoli and Leydig cells in the testes from 26 post mortem male subjects ranging in age from 16 to 80 years. The mean unilateral total number of Sertoli cells was 407 × 10(6) [range: 86 × 10(6) to 665 × 10(6) , coefficient of variation (CV) = 0.33], and the mean unilateral total number of Leydig cells was 99 × 10(6) (range: 47 × 10(6) to 245 × 10(6) , CV = 0.48). There was a significant decline in the number of Sertoli cells with age; no such decline was found for Leydig cells. Quantitative stereological analysis of post mortem tissue may help understand the influence of age or disease on the number of human testicular cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Petersen
- Research Laboratory for Stereology and Neuroscience, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospitals, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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23
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Ando S, Matsuoka T, Kawai K, Sugita S, Joraku A, Kojima T, Suetomi T, Miyazaki J, Fujita J, Nishiyama H. Expression of the oncoprotein gankyrin and phosphorylated retinoblastoma protein in human testis and testicular germ cell tumor. Int J Urol 2014; 21:992-8. [PMID: 24861729 DOI: 10.1111/iju.12484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2013] [Accepted: 04/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The oncoprotein, gankyrin, is known to facilitate cell proliferation through phosphorylation and degradation of retinoblastoma protein. In the present study, we evaluated the expression of gankyrin and phosphorylated retinoblastoma protein in human testis and testicular germ cell tumors. METHODS The effects of suppression of gankyrin by locked nucleic acid on phosphorylation status of retinoblastoma and cell proliferation were analyzed using western blot analysis and testicular tumor cell line NEC8. The expressions of gankyrin, retinoblastoma and retinoblastoma protein were analyzed in 93 testicular germ cell tumor samples and five normal human testis by immunohistochemistry. The retinoblastoma protein expression was determined using an antibody to retinoblastoma protein, Ser795. RESULTS Gankyrin was expressed in NEC8 cells as well as a normal human testis and testicular tumors. Suppression of gankyrin by locked nucleic acid led to suppression of retinoblastoma protein and cell proliferation in NEC8 cells. Immunohistochemistry of normal testis showed that gankyrin is expressed dominantly in spermatocytes. In testicular germ cell tumors, high expressions of gankyrin and phosphorylated-retinoblastoma protein were observed in seminoma and embryonal carcinoma, whereas the expressions of both proteins were weak in histological subtypes of non-seminoma. Growing teratoma and testicular malignant transformation tissues expressed phosphorylated-retinoblastoma protein strongly, but gankyrin faintly. CONCLUSION Gankyrin is dominantly expressed in normal spermatocytes and seminoma/embryonal carcinoma, and its expression correlates well with retinoblastoma protein expression except in the growing teratoma and testicular malignant transformation cases. These data provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of normal spermatogenesis and pathogenesis of testicular germ cell tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Ando
- Department of Urology, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
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24
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Rondanino C, Ouchchane L, Chauffour C, Marceau G, Déchelotte P, Sion B, Pons-Rejraji H, Janny L, Volle DH, Lobaccaro JMA, Brugnon F. Levels of liver X receptors in testicular biopsies of patients with azoospermia. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:361-371.e5. [PMID: 24842676 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [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: 03/03/2014] [Revised: 04/12/2014] [Accepted: 04/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether the transcription factors liver X receptors (LXRs) and their downstream genes, which are involved in the regulation of several testicular functions in mouse models, are differentially expressed in testes of men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) or obstructive azoospermia (OA). DESIGN Prospective study. SETTING University hospital. PATIENT(S) Patients with various types of NOA (n=22) and with OA (n=5). INTERVENTION(S) Human testicular biopsies. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Transcript levels were measured in testicular biopsies with the use of quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Correlations of LXR mRNA levels with the number of germ cells, the expression of proliferation and apoptosis markers, and the amount of intratesticular lipids and testosterone were evaluated. The localization of LXRα was analyzed by immunofluorescence. RESULT(S) LXR mRNA levels were decreased by 49%-98% in NOA specimens and positively correlated with germ cell number. Accumulations of IDOL and SREBP1c (LXR targets involved in lipid homeostasis) were 1.8-2.1 times lower in NOA samples and mRNA levels of the SREBP1c target gene ELOVL6 were increased 1.9-2.4-fold. Interestingly, the amount of triglycerides and free fatty acids were higher in NOA testes (3.4-12.2-fold). LXRα was present in Leydig cells. Accumulations of LXR downstream genes encoding the steroidogenic proteins StAR and 3βHSD2 were higher in NOA testes (5.9-12.8-fold). CONCLUSION(S) Knowledge of changes in the transcript levels of LXRs and some of their downstream genes during altered spermatogenesis may help us to better understand the physiopathology of testicular failure in azoospermic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Rondanino
- Génétique Reproduction et Développement, Clermont Université, Clermont-Ferrand, France; CNRS, UMR 6293, GReD, Aubière, France; INSERM, UMR 1103, GReD, Aubière, France; Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine d'Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France; AMP-CECOS, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Estaing, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Lemlih Ouchchane
- Laboratoire ISIT, UMR 6284 Université d'Auvergne-CNRS, Clermont-Ferrand, France; Service de Biostatistiques, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Candice Chauffour
- Génétique Reproduction et Développement, Clermont Université, Clermont-Ferrand, France; CNRS, UMR 6293, GReD, Aubière, France; INSERM, UMR 1103, GReD, Aubière, France; Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine d'Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France; AMP-CECOS, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Estaing, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Geoffroy Marceau
- Laboratoire de Biochimie, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Pierre Déchelotte
- Service d'Anatomie Pathologique, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Estaing, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Benoît Sion
- Laboratoire NEURO-DOL, INSERM U 1107, Clermont-Ferrand, France; Laboratoire de Pharmacologie Fondamentale et Clinique de la Douleur, Université d'Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Hanae Pons-Rejraji
- Génétique Reproduction et Développement, Clermont Université, Clermont-Ferrand, France; CNRS, UMR 6293, GReD, Aubière, France; INSERM, UMR 1103, GReD, Aubière, France; AMP-CECOS, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Estaing, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Laurent Janny
- Génétique Reproduction et Développement, Clermont Université, Clermont-Ferrand, France; CNRS, UMR 6293, GReD, Aubière, France; INSERM, UMR 1103, GReD, Aubière, France; AMP-CECOS, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Estaing, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - David H Volle
- Génétique Reproduction et Développement, Clermont Université, Clermont-Ferrand, France; CNRS, UMR 6293, GReD, Aubière, France; INSERM, UMR 1103, GReD, Aubière, France; Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine d'Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Jean-Marc A Lobaccaro
- Génétique Reproduction et Développement, Clermont Université, Clermont-Ferrand, France; CNRS, UMR 6293, GReD, Aubière, France; INSERM, UMR 1103, GReD, Aubière, France; Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine d'Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Florence Brugnon
- Génétique Reproduction et Développement, Clermont Université, Clermont-Ferrand, France; CNRS, UMR 6293, GReD, Aubière, France; INSERM, UMR 1103, GReD, Aubière, France; AMP-CECOS, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Estaing, Clermont-Ferrand, France.
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25
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Sadri-Ardekani H, Homburg CH, van Capel TMM, van den Berg H, van der Veen F, van der Schoot CE, van Pelt AMM, Repping S. Eliminating acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells from human testicular cell cultures: a pilot study. Fertil Steril 2014; 101:1072-1078.e1. [PMID: 24581582 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [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: 06/01/2013] [Revised: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study whether acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells survive in a human testicular cell culture system. DESIGN Experimental laboratory study. SETTING Reproductive biology laboratory, academic medical center. PATIENT(S) Acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells from three patients and testicular cells from three other patients. INTERVENTION(S) Acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells were cultured alone or in combination with testicular cells, at various concentrations, in a system that has recently been developed to propagate human spermatogonial stem cells. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Viability of ALL and testicular cells during culture was evaluated by flow cytometry using markers for live/dead cells. Furthermore, the presence of ALL cells among testicular cells was determined by highly sensitive (1:10,000 to 1:100,000 cells) patient-specific antigen-receptor minimal residual disease polymerase chain reaction. The presence of spermatogonia at the end of culture was determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction for ZBTB16, UCHL1, and GPR125. RESULT(S) The ALL cells cultured separately did not survive beyond 14 days of culture. When cultured together with testicular cells, even at extremely high initial concentrations (40% ALL cells), ALL cells were undetectable beyond 26 days of culture. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction confirmed the presence of spermatogonia at the end of the culture period. CONCLUSION(S) Our pilot study shows that the described testicular cell culture system not only allows for efficient propagation of spermatogonial stem cells but also eliminates contaminating ALL cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hooman Sadri-Ardekani
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, The Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Christa H Homburg
- Experimental Immunohematology, Sanquin Research at the Central Laboratory of the Netherlands Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service (CLB), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Toni M M van Capel
- Departments of Cell Biology and Histology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Henk van den Berg
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Fulco van der Veen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - C Ellen van der Schoot
- Experimental Immunohematology, Sanquin Research at the Central Laboratory of the Netherlands Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service (CLB), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Boukari K, Meduri G, Brailly-Tabard S, Guibourdenche J, Ciampi ML, Massin N, Martinerie L, Picard JY, Rey R, Lombes M, Young J. Lack of androgen receptor expression in Sertoli cells accounts for the absence of anti-Mullerian hormone repression during early human testis development. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2009; 94:1818-25. [PMID: 19276236 PMCID: PMC2699416 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2008-1909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Puberty is associated with increased testicular testosterone (TT) synthesis, which is required to trigger spermatogenesis and to repress anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) production. However, testicular gonadotropin stimulation during fetal and newborn life neither initiates spermatogenesis nor represses AMH. OBJECTIVE We postulated that a lack of androgen receptor (AR) expression in Sertoli cells (SC) might explain why these processes do not occur during early human development. METHODS AND PATIENTS Using immunohistochemistry and quantitative PCR, we examined the relationship between AR, AMH, and FSH receptor expression in fetal, newborn, and adult human testis. The ability of testosterone to repress AMH secretion was evaluated in male newborns, neonates, and two adults with androgen insensitivity syndrome and also in vitro using SMAT1 SC. RESULTS FSH receptor was present in SC at all developmental stages. In fetal and newborn testis, AR was expressed in peritubular and Leydig cells but not in SC. This coincided with the absence of spermatogenesis and with strong SC AMH expression. In adult testis, spermatogenesis was associated with AR expression and with a decrease in SC AMH content. Accordingly, AR mRNA expression was lower and AMH mRNA expression higher in fetal testes than in adult testes. In androgen insensitivity syndrome patients, combined gonadotropin stimulation induced an increase in circulating testosterone and AMH, a finding consistent with a failure of TT to repress AMH in the absence of AR signalling. Finally, direct androgen repression of AMH only occurred in AR-expressing SMAT1 cells. CONCLUSION Functional ARs are essential for TT-mediated AMH repression in SC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kahina Boukari
- Récepteurs stéroïdiens : physiopathologie endocrinienne et métabolique
INSERM : U693IFR93Université Paris Sud - Paris XIFaculté de médecine 63, Rue Gabriel Peri 94276 LE KREMLIN BICETRE,FR
| | - Géri Meduri
- Récepteurs stéroïdiens : physiopathologie endocrinienne et métabolique
INSERM : U693IFR93Université Paris Sud - Paris XIFaculté de médecine 63, Rue Gabriel Peri 94276 LE KREMLIN BICETRE,FR
- Service de génétique moléculaire, pharmacogénétique et hormonologie
AP-HPHôpital BicêtreUniversité Paris Sud - Paris XI78, rue du Général Leclerc 94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre,FR
| | - Sylvie Brailly-Tabard
- Récepteurs stéroïdiens : physiopathologie endocrinienne et métabolique
INSERM : U693IFR93Université Paris Sud - Paris XIFaculté de médecine 63, Rue Gabriel Peri 94276 LE KREMLIN BICETRE,FR
- Service de génétique moléculaire, pharmacogénétique et hormonologie
AP-HPHôpital BicêtreUniversité Paris Sud - Paris XI78, rue du Général Leclerc 94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre,FR
| | - Jean Guibourdenche
- Service de biochimie-hormonologie
AP-HPHôpital Robert DebréUniversité Denis Diderot - Paris VII48 bd Sérurier 75019 Paris,FR
| | | | - Nathalie Massin
- CAMP, Centre d'assistance Médicale à la procréation
Université Paris 12Centre intercommunal de Creteil,FR
| | - Laetitia Martinerie
- Récepteurs stéroïdiens : physiopathologie endocrinienne et métabolique
INSERM : U693IFR93Université Paris Sud - Paris XIFaculté de médecine 63, Rue Gabriel Peri 94276 LE KREMLIN BICETRE,FR
| | - Jean-Yves Picard
- Endocrinologie du développement
INSERM : U782IFR13Université Paris Sud - Paris XICentre de Recherche Inserm 32, Rue Des Carnets 92140 CLAMART,FR
| | - Rodolfo Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas
Universidad de Buenos AiresHospital de Niños R. Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires,,AR
| | - Marc Lombes
- Récepteurs stéroïdiens : physiopathologie endocrinienne et métabolique
INSERM : U693IFR93Université Paris Sud - Paris XIFaculté de médecine 63, Rue Gabriel Peri 94276 LE KREMLIN BICETRE,FR
- Service d'endocrinologie
AP-HPHôpital BicêtreUniversité Paris Sud - Paris XI78 rue du général Leclerc 94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre,FR
| | - Jacques Young
- Récepteurs stéroïdiens : physiopathologie endocrinienne et métabolique
INSERM : U693IFR93Université Paris Sud - Paris XIFaculté de médecine 63, Rue Gabriel Peri 94276 LE KREMLIN BICETRE,FR
- Service d'endocrinologie
AP-HPHôpital BicêtreUniversité Paris Sud - Paris XI78 rue du général Leclerc 94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre,FR
- * Correspondence should be adressed to: Jacques Young
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