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Loehr AR, Timmerman DM, Liu M, Gillis AJ, Matthews M, Bloom JC, Nicholls PK, Page DC, Miller AD, Looijenga LH, Weiss RS. Analysis of a mouse germ cell tumor model establishes pluripotency-associated miRNAs as conserved serum biomarkers for germ cell cancer detection. bioRxiv 2023:2023.09.09.556995. [PMID: 37745561 PMCID: PMC10515752 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.09.556995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Malignant testicular germ cells tumors (TGCTs) are the most common solid cancers in young men. Current TGCT diagnostics include conventional serum protein markers, but these lack the sensitivity and specificity to serve as accurate markers across all TGCT subtypes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding regulatory RNAs and informative biomarkers for several diseases. In humans, miRNAs of the miR-371-373 cluster are detectable in the serum of patients with malignant TGCTs and outperform existing serum protein markers for both initial diagnosis and subsequent disease monitoring. We previously developed a genetically engineered mouse model featuring malignant mixed TGCTs consisting of pluripotent embryonal carcinoma (EC) and differentiated teratoma that, like the corresponding human malignancies, originate in utero and are highly chemosensitive. Here, we report that miRNAs in the mouse miR-290-295 cluster, homologs of the human miR-371-373 cluster, were detectable in serum from mice with malignant TGCTs but not from tumor-free control mice or mice with benign teratomas. miR-291-293 were expressed and secreted specifically by pluripotent EC cells, and expression was lost following differentiation induced by the drug thioridazine. Notably, miR-291-293 levels were significantly higher in the serum of pregnant dams carrying tumor-bearing fetuses compared to that of control dams. These findings reveal that expression of the miR-290-295 and miR-371-373 clusters in mice and humans, respectively, is a conserved feature of malignant TGCTs, further validating the mouse model as representative of the human disease. These data also highlight the potential of serum miR-371-373 assays to improve patient outcomes through early TGCT detection, possibly even prenatally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda R. Loehr
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY
| | | | - Michelle Liu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY
| | - Ad J.M. Gillis
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Melia Matthews
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY
| | | | | | - David C. Page
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
| | - Andrew D. Miller
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY
| | | | - Robert S. Weiss
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY
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2
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Hughes JF, Skaletsky H, Nicholls PK, Drake A, Pyntikova T, Cho TJ, Bellott DW, Page DC. A gene deriving from the ancestral sex chromosomes was lost from the X and retained on the Y chromosome in eutherian mammals. BMC Biol 2022; 20:133. [PMID: 35676717 PMCID: PMC9178871 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01338-8] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The mammalian X and Y chromosomes originated from a pair of ordinary autosomes. Over the past ~180 million years, the X and Y have become highly differentiated and now only recombine with each other within a short pseudoautosomal region. While the X chromosome broadly preserved its gene content, the Y chromosome lost ~92% of the genes it once shared with the X chromosome. PRSSLY is a Y-linked gene identified in only a few mammalian species that was thought to be acquired, not ancestral. However, PRSSLY’s presence in widely divergent species—bull and mouse—led us to further investigate its evolutionary history. Results We discovered that PRSSLY is broadly conserved across eutherians and has ancient origins. PRSSLY homologs are found in syntenic regions on the X chromosome in marsupials and on autosomes in more distant animals, including lizards, indicating that PRSSLY was present on the ancestral autosomes but was lost from the X and retained on the Y in eutherian mammals. We found that across eutheria, PRSSLY’s expression is testis-specific, and, in mouse, it is most robustly expressed in post-meiotic germ cells. The closest paralog to PRSSLY is the autosomal gene PRSS55, which is expressed exclusively in testes, involved in sperm differentiation and migration, and essential for male fertility in mice. Outside of eutheria, in species where PRSSLY orthologs are not Y-linked, we find expression in a broader range of somatic tissues, suggesting that PRSSLY has adopted a germ-cell-specific function in eutherians. Finally, we generated Prssly mutant mice and found that they are fully fertile but produce offspring with a modest female-biased sex ratio compared to controls. Conclusions PRSSLY appears to be the first example of a gene that derives from the mammalian ancestral sex chromosomes that was lost from the X and retained on the Y. Although the function of PRSSLY remains to be determined, it may influence the sex ratio by promoting the survival or propagation of Y-bearing sperm. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12915-022-01338-8.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Helen Skaletsky
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Peter K Nicholls
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.,Present Address: Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bradford, BD71DP, Bradford, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - David C Page
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.,Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
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3
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Abstract
In each generation, the germline is tasked with producing somatic lineages that form the body, and segregating a population of cells for gametogenesis. During animal development, when do cells of the germline irreversibly commit to producing gametes? Integrating findings from diverse species, we conclude that the final commitment of the germline to gametogenesis - the process of germ cell determination - occurs after primordial germ cells (PGCs) colonize the gonads. Combining this understanding with medical findings, we present a model whereby germ cell tumors arise from cells that failed to undertake germ cell determination, regardless of their having colonized the gonads. We propose that the diversity of cell types present in these tumors reflects the broad developmental potential of migratory PGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Nicholls
- Whitehead Institute, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.,Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK
| | - David C Page
- Whitehead Institute, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.,Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
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4
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Mikedis MM, Fan Y, Nicholls PK, Endo T, Jackson EK, Cobb SA, de Rooij DG, Page DC. DAZL mediates a broad translational program regulating expansion and differentiation of spermatogonial progenitors. eLife 2020; 9:56523. [PMID: 32686646 PMCID: PMC7445011 DOI: 10.7554/elife.56523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertility across metazoa requires the germline-specific DAZ family of RNA-binding proteins. Here we examine whether DAZL directly regulates progenitor spermatogonia using a conditional genetic mouse model and in vivo biochemical approaches combined with chemical synchronization of spermatogenesis. We find that the absence of Dazl impairs both expansion and differentiation of the spermatogonial progenitor population. In undifferentiated spermatogonia, DAZL binds the 3' UTRs of ~2,500 protein-coding genes. Some targets are known regulators of spermatogonial proliferation and differentiation while others are broadly expressed, dosage-sensitive factors that control transcription and RNA metabolism. DAZL binds 3' UTR sites conserved across vertebrates at a UGUU(U/A) motif. By assessing ribosome occupancy in undifferentiated spermatogonia, we find that DAZL increases translation of its targets. In total, DAZL orchestrates a broad translational program that amplifies protein levels of key spermatogonial and gene regulatory factors to promote the expansion and differentiation of progenitor spermatogonia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuting Fan
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, United States.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | | | - Emily K Jackson
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, United States.,Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, United States
| | | | | | - David C Page
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, United States.,Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, United States
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5
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Dokshin GA, Davis GM, Sawle AD, Eldridge MD, Nicholls PK, Gourley TE, Romer KA, Molesworth LW, Tatnell HR, Ozturk AR, de Rooij DG, Hannon GJ, Page DC, Mello CC, Carmell MA. GCNA Interacts with Spartan and Topoisomerase II to Regulate Genome Stability. Dev Cell 2020; 52:53-68.e6. [PMID: 31839538 PMCID: PMC7227305 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2019.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
GCNA proteins are expressed across eukarya in pluripotent cells and have conserved functions in fertility. GCNA homologs Spartan (DVC-1) and Wss1 resolve DNA-protein crosslinks (DPCs), including Topoisomerase-DNA adducts, during DNA replication. Here, we show that GCNA mutants in mouse and C. elegans display defects in genome maintenance including DNA damage, aberrant chromosome condensation, and crossover defects in mouse spermatocytes and spontaneous genomic rearrangements in C. elegans. We show that GCNA and topoisomerase II (TOP2) physically interact in both mice and worms and colocalize on condensed chromosomes during mitosis in C. elegans embryos. Moreover, C. elegans gcna-1 mutants are hypersensitive to TOP2 poison. Together, our findings support a model in which GCNA provides genome maintenance functions in the germline and may do so, in part, by promoting the resolution of TOP2 DPCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregoriy A Dokshin
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Gregory M Davis
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University, VIC 3841, Australia
| | - Ashley D Sawle
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Matthew D Eldridge
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | | | - Taylin E Gourley
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University, VIC 3841, Australia
| | - Katherine A Romer
- Whitehead Institute, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Computational and Systems Biology Program, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Luke W Molesworth
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University, VIC 3841, Australia
| | - Hannah R Tatnell
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University, VIC 3841, Australia
| | - Ahmet R Ozturk
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Dirk G de Rooij
- Whitehead Institute, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584, the Netherlands; Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam 1105, the Netherlands
| | - Gregory J Hannon
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK; Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | - David C Page
- Whitehead Institute, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Craig C Mello
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
| | - Michelle A Carmell
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Whitehead Institute, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA.
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6
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Haverfield JT, Stanton PG, Loveland KL, Zahid H, Nicholls PK, Olcorn JS, Makanji Y, Itman CM, Simpson ER, Meachem SJ. Suppression of Sertoli cell tumour development during the first wave of spermatogenesis in inhibin α-deficient mice. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 29:609-620. [PMID: 26488911 DOI: 10.1071/rd15239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2015] [Accepted: 09/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A dynamic partnership between follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and activin is required for normal Sertoli cell development and fertility. Disruptions to this partnership trigger Sertoli cells to deviate from their normal developmental pathway, as observed in inhibin α-knockout (Inha-KO) mice, which feature Sertoli cell tumours in adulthood. Here, we identified the developmental windows by which adult Sertoli cell tumourigenesis is most FSH sensitive. FSH was suppressed for 7 days in Inha-KO mice and wild-type littermates during the 1st, 2nd or 4th week after birth and culled in the 5th week to assess the effect on adult Sertoli cell development. Tumour growth was profoundly reduced in adult Inha-KO mice in response to FSH suppression during Weeks 1 and 2, but not Week 4. Proliferative Sertoli cells were markedly reduced in adult Inha-KO mice following FSH suppression during Weeks 1, 2 or 4, resulting in levels similar to those in wild-type mice, with greatest effect observed at the 2 week time point. Apoptotic Sertoli cells increased in adult Inha-KO mice after FSH suppression during Week 4. In conclusion, acute FSH suppression during the 1st or 2nd week after birth in Inha-KO mice profoundly suppresses Sertoli cell tumour progression, probably by inhibiting proliferation in the adult, with early postnatal Sertoli cells being most sensitive to FSH action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna T Haverfield
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Peter G Stanton
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Heba Zahid
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Peter K Nicholls
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Justine S Olcorn
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Yogeshwar Makanji
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Catherine M Itman
- Priority Research Centres for Reproductive Science and Chemical Biology, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Information Technology, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Evan R Simpson
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Sarah J Meachem
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
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7
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Abstract
The need for antiviral therapies for papillomavirus infections is well recognized but the difficulties of reproducing the infectious cycle of papillomaviruses in vitro has hindered our understanding of virus-cell interactions and the regulation of viral gene expression during permissive growth. Recent advances in understanding the temporal expression and function of papillomavirus proteins has enabled consideration of a targeted approach to papillomavirus chemotherapy and in particular the inhibition of viral replication by targeting the E1 and E2 proteins. There are in vitro culture systems available for the screening of new chemotherapeutic agents, since significant advances have been made with culture systems which promote epithelial differentiation in vitro. However, to date, there are no published data which show that virions generated in vitro can infect keratinocytes and initiate another round of replication in vitro. In vivo animal models are therefore necessary to assess the efficacy of antivirals in preventing and treating viral infection, particularly for the low-risk genital viruses which are on the whole refractory to culture in vitro. Although papillomaviruses affect a wide variety of hosts in a species-specific manner, the animals most useful for modelling papillomavirus infections include the rabbit, ox, mouse, dog, horse, primate and sheep. The ideal animal model should be widely available, easy to house and handle, be large enough to allow for adequate tissue sampling, develop lesions on anatomical sites comparable with those in human diseases and these lesions should be readily accessible for monitoring and ideally should yield large amounts of infectious virus particles for use in both in vivo and in vitro studies. The relative merits of the various papillomavirus animal models available in relation to these criteria are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- MA Stanley
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
| | - PJ Masterson
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
| | - PK Nicholls
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
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8
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Kern DM, Nicholls PK, Page DC, Cheeseman IM. A mitotic SKAP isoform regulates spindle positioning at astral microtubule plus ends. J Cell Biol 2016; 213:315-28. [PMID: 27138257 PMCID: PMC4862331 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201510117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Astrin/SKAP complex regulates mitotic chromosome alignment and centrosome integrity, but previous work found conflicting results for SKAP function. Here, Kern et al. demonstrate that a previously unappreciated short SKAP isoform mediates mitotic spindle positioning at astral microtubule plus ends. The Astrin/SKAP complex plays important roles in mitotic chromosome alignment and centrosome integrity, but previous work found conflicting results for SKAP function. Here, we demonstrate that SKAP is expressed as two distinct isoforms in mammals: a longer, testis-specific isoform that was used for the previous studies in mitotic cells and a novel, shorter mitotic isoform. Unlike the long isoform, short SKAP rescues SKAP depletion in mitosis and displays robust microtubule plus-end tracking, including localization to astral microtubules. Eliminating SKAP microtubule binding results in severe chromosome segregation defects. In contrast, SKAP mutants specifically defective for plus-end tracking facilitate proper chromosome segregation but display spindle positioning defects. Cells lacking SKAP plus-end tracking have reduced Clasp1 localization at microtubule plus ends and display increased lateral microtubule contacts with the cell cortex, which we propose results in unbalanced dynein-dependent cortical pulling forces. Our work reveals an unappreciated role for the Astrin/SKAP complex as an astral microtubule mediator of mitotic spindle positioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Kern
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142 Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Peter K Nicholls
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142
| | - David C Page
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142 Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139 Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD 20815
| | - Iain M Cheeseman
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142 Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
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9
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Hu YC, Nicholls PK, Soh YQS, Daniele JR, Junker JP, van Oudenaarden A, Page DC. Licensing of primordial germ cells for gametogenesis depends on genital ridge signaling. PLoS Genet 2015; 11:e1005019. [PMID: 25739037 PMCID: PMC4349450 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1005019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In mouse embryos at mid-gestation, primordial germ cells (PGCs) undergo licensing to become gametogenesis-competent cells (GCCs), gaining the capacity for meiotic initiation and sexual differentiation. GCCs then initiate either oogenesis or spermatogenesis in response to gonadal cues. Germ cell licensing has been considered to be a cell-autonomous and gonad-independent event, based on observations that some PGCs, having migrated not to the gonad but to the adrenal gland, nonetheless enter meiosis in a time frame parallel to ovarian germ cells -- and do so regardless of the sex of the embryo. Here we test the hypothesis that germ cell licensing is cell-autonomous by examining the fate of PGCs in Gata4 conditional mutant (Gata4 cKO) mouse embryos. Gata4, which is expressed only in somatic cells, is known to be required for genital ridge initiation. PGCs in Gata4 cKO mutants migrated to the area where the genital ridge, the precursor of the gonad, would ordinarily be formed. However, these germ cells did not undergo licensing and instead retained characteristics of PGCs. Our results indicate that licensing is not purely cell-autonomous but is induced by the somatic genital ridge. During embryonic development, stem cell-like primordial germ cells travel across the developing embryo to the genital ridge, which gives rise to the gonad. Around the time of their arrival, the primordial germ cells gain the capacity to undertake sexual specialization and meiosis—a process called germ cell licensing. Based on the observation that meiosis and sexual differentiation can occur when primordial germ cells stray into the area of the adrenal gland, the primordial germ cell has been thought to be responsible for its own licensing. We tested this notion by examining the licensing process in mutant mouse embryos that did not form a genital ridge. We discovered that in the absence of the genital ridge, primordial germ cells migrate across the developing embryo properly, but instead of undergoing licensing, these cells retain their primordial germ cell characteristics. We conclude that licensing of embryonic primordial germ cells for gametogenesis is dependent on signaling from the genital ridge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueh-Chiang Hu
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Peter K. Nicholls
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Y. Q. Shirleen Soh
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Joseph R. Daniele
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Jan Philipp Junker
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Hubrecht Institute—KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Alexander van Oudenaarden
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Hubrecht Institute—KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - David C. Page
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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10
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Nicholls PK, Stanton PG, Rainczuk KE, Qian H, Gregorevic P, Harrison CA. Lentiviral transduction of rat Sertoli cells as a means to modify gene expression. Spermatogenesis 2014; 2:279-284. [PMID: 23248769 PMCID: PMC3521750 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.22516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Primary cell culture is an established and widely used technique to study Sertoli cell function in vitro. However, the relative difficulty of stably overexpressing or knocking down genes in Sertoli cell culture has limited progress in the field. In this technical report, we present a method to transduce 20 dpp rat Sertoli cell cultures with VSV-G pseudotyped lentiviral based vectors at a high rate (~80%), with stable reporter gene expression. Although high transgene expression is desirable, it was noted that at transduction rates > 60% inter-Sertoli cell tight junction integrity and, hence, Sertoli cell function, were transiently compromised. We envisage that this optimized procedure has the potential to stimulate Sertoli cell research, and motivate the use of Sertoli cells in various cell therapy applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Nicholls
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research; Clayton, VIC Australia ; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Monash University; Clayton, VIC Australia
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11
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Koenig PA, Nicholls PK, Schmidt FI, Hagiwara M, Maruyama T, Frydman GH, Watson N, Page DC, Ploegh HL. The E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme UBE2J1 is required for spermiogenesis in mice. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:34490-502. [PMID: 25320092 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.604132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
ER-resident proteins destined for degradation are dislocated into the cytosol by components of the ER quality control machinery for proteasomal degradation. Dislocation substrates are ubiquitylated in the cytosol by E2 ubiquitin-conjugating/E3 ligase complexes. UBE2J1 is one of the well-characterized E2 enzymes that participate in this process. However, the physiological function of Ube2j1 is poorly defined. We find that Ube2j1(-/-) mice have reduced viability and fail to thrive early after birth. Male Ube2j1(-/-) mice are sterile due to a defect in late spermatogenesis. Ultrastructural analysis shows that removal of the cytoplasm is incomplete in Ube2j1(-/-) elongating spermatids, compromising the release of mature elongate spermatids into the lumen of the seminiferous tubule. Our findings identify an essential function for the ubiquitin-proteasome-system in spermiogenesis and define a novel, non-redundant physiological function for the dislocation step of ER quality control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul-Albert Koenig
- From the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142
| | - Peter K Nicholls
- From the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142
| | - Florian I Schmidt
- From the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142
| | - Masatoshi Hagiwara
- From the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142
| | - Takeshi Maruyama
- From the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142
| | - Galit H Frydman
- Division of Comparative Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | - Nicki Watson
- From the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142
| | - David C Page
- From the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142
| | - Hidde L Ploegh
- From the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, and
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12
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Abstract
BACKGROUND A nearly 4-year-old neutered male Australian Terrier was referred for a nodular pyogranulomatous mass of the right axilla. It had been poorly responsive to antibiotic therapy. CASE REPORT Based on filamentous Gram-positive organisms identified in earlier biopsy material, infection by an Actinomyces sp. was suspected and the dog showed clinical improvement on a trial of potentiated sulfonamides. Recurrence 5 months later prompted euthanasia, with Streptomyces cyaneus being cultured and confirmed by genetic sequencing of part of the 16 s ribosomal RNA gene. CONCLUSION Invasive Streptomyces spp. infections are uncommon in humans and animals, and isolations are sometimes considered to be contaminants, but the demonstration of the organism within the lesion in this instance indicates that the isolation of a Streptomyces sp. from veterinary cases should not always be considered as contamination, because this genus is clearly pathogenic.
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Affiliation(s)
- P K Nicholls
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia.
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Haverfield JT, Meachem SJ, Nicholls PK, Rainczuk KE, Simpson ER, Stanton PG. Differential permeability of the blood-testis barrier during reinitiation of spermatogenesis in adult male rats. Endocrinology 2014; 155:1131-44. [PMID: 24424039 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) sequesters meiotic spermatocytes and differentiating spermatids away from the vascular environment. We aimed to assess whether meiosis and postmeiotic differentiation could occur when the BTB is permeable. Using a model of meiotic suppression and reinitiation, BTB function was assessed using permeability tracers of small, medium, and large (0.6-, 70-, and 150-kDa) sizes to emulate blood- and lymphatic-borne factors that could cross the BTB. Adult rats (n = 9/group) received the GnRH antagonist acyline (10 wk) to suppress gonadotropins, followed by testosterone (24cm Silastic implant), for 2, 4, 7, 10, 15, and 35 days. In acyline-suppressed testes, all tracers permeated the seminiferous epithelium. As spermatocytes up to diplotene stage XIII reappeared, both the 0.6- and 70-kDa tracers, but not 150 kDa, permeated around these cells. Intriguingly, the 0.6- and 70-kDa tracers were excluded from pachytene spermatocytes at stages VII and VIII but not in subsequent stages. The BTB became progressively impermeable to the 0.6- and 70-kDa tracers as stages IV-VII round spermatids reappeared in the epithelium. This coincided with the appearance of the tight junction protein, claudin-12, in Sertoli cells and at the BTB. We conclude that meiosis can occur when the BTB is permeable to factors up to 70 kDa during the reinitiation of spermatogenesis. Moreover, BTB closure corresponds with the presence of particular pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. This research has implications for understanding the effects of BTB dynamics in normal spermatogenesis and also potentially in states where spermatogenesis is suppressed, such as male hormonal contraception or infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna T Haverfield
- Prince Henry's Institute (J.T.H., S.J.M., P.K.N., K.E.R., E.R.S., P.G.S.), Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; and Departments of Anatomy and Developmental Biology (J.T.H., S.J.M.) and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (P.K.N., E.R.S., P.G.S.), Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
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Nicholls PK, Harrison CA, Rainczuk KE, Wayne Vogl A, Stanton PG. Retinoic acid promotes Sertoli cell differentiation and antagonises activin-induced proliferation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2013; 377:33-43. [PMID: 23831638 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [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] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Revised: 05/25/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
From puberty and throughout adult spermatogenesis, retinoid signalling is essential for germ cell differentiation and male fertility. The initiation of spermatogonial differentiation and germ cell meiosis occurs under the direction of local retinoid signalling in the testis, and corresponds with the final phase of somatic Sertoli cell differentiation at puberty. Here, we consider the cellular and molecular basis of retinoid actions upon Sertoli cell differentiation. Primary rat Sertoli cells were isolated during the pubertal proliferative and quiescent phases at postnatal days 10- and 20- respectively, and cultured with all-trans-retinoic acid. We show that retinoid signalling can potently suppress activin-induced proliferation by antagonising G1 phase progression and entry into the cell cycle. Retinoid signalling was also found to initiate tight junction formation in primary Sertoli cells, consistent with a pro-differentiative role. This study implicates retinoid signalling in the differentiation of both somatic and germ cells in the testis at puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Nicholls
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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Du M, Young J, De Asis M, Cipollone J, Roskelley C, Takai Y, Nicholls PK, Stanton PG, Deng W, Finlay BB, Vogl AW. A novel subcellular machine contributes to basal junction remodeling in the seminiferous epithelium. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:60. [PMID: 23303684 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.104851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tubulobulbar complexes are cytoskeleton-related membrane structures that develop at sites of intercellular attachment in mammalian seminiferous epithelium. At apical junctions between Sertoli cells and spermatids, the structures internalize adhesion junctions and are a component of the sperm release mechanism. Here we explore the possibility that tubulobulbar complexes that form at the blood-testis barrier are subcellular machines that internalize basal junction complexes. Using electron microscopy, we confirmed that morphologically identifiable tight and gap junctions are present in basal tubulobulbar complexes in rats. In addition, immunological probes for claudin-11 (CLDN11), connexin-43 (GJA1), and nectin-2 (PVRL2) react with linear structures at the light level that we interpret as tubulobulbar complexes, and probes for early endosome antigen 1 (EEA1) and Rab5 (RAB5A) react in similar locations. Significantly, fluorescence patterns for actin and claudin-11 indicate that the amount of junction present is dramatically reduced over the time period that tubulobulbar complexes are known to be most prevalent during spermatogenesis. We also demonstrated, using electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy, that tubulobulbar complexes develop at basal junctions in primary cultures of Sertoli cells and that like their in vivo counterparts, the structures contain junction proteins. We use this culture system together with transfection techniques to show that junction proteins from one transfected cell occur in structures that project into adjacent nontransfected cells as predicted by the junction internalization hypothesis. On the basis of our findings, we present a new model for basal junction remodeling as it relates to spermatocyte translocation in the seminiferous epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Du
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Life Sciences Centre, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Nicholls PK, Stanton PG, Chen JL, Olcorn JS, Haverfield JT, Qian H, Walton KL, Gregorevic P, Harrison CA. Activin signaling regulates Sertoli cell differentiation and function. Endocrinology 2012; 153:6065-77. [PMID: 23117933 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-1821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Throughout development, activin A signaling stimulates proliferation and inhibits differentiation of testicular Sertoli cells. A decline in activin levels at puberty corresponds with the differentiation of Sertoli cells that is required to sustain spermatogenesis. In this study, we consider whether terminally differentiated Sertoli cells can revert to a functionally immature phenotype in response to activin A. To increase systemic activin levels, the right tibialis anterior muscle of 7-wk-old C57BL/6J mice was transduced with an adeno-associated virus (rAAV6) expressing activin A. We show that chronic activin signaling reduces testis mass by 23.5% compared with control animals and induces a hypospermatogenic phenotype, consistent with a failure of Sertoli cells to support spermatogenesis. We use permeability tracers and transepithelial electrical resistance measurements to demonstrate that activin potently disrupts blood-testis-barrier function in adult mice and ablates tight junction formation in differentiated primary Sertoli cells, respectively. Furthermore, increased activin signaling reinitiates a program of cellular proliferation in primary Sertoli cells as determined by 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation. Proliferative cells reexpress juvenile markers, including cytokeratin-18, and suppress mature markers, including claudin-11. Thus, activin A is the first identified factor capable of reprogramming Sertoli cells to an immature, dedifferentiated phenotype. This study indicates that activin signaling must be strictly controlled in the adult in order to maintain Sertoli cell function in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Nicholls
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia
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McCabe MJ, Allan CM, Foo CFH, Nicholls PK, McTavish KJ, Stanton PG. Androgen initiates Sertoli cell tight junction formation in the hypogonadal (hpg) mouse. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:38. [PMID: 22623623 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.094318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cell tight junctions (TJs) form at puberty as a major component of the blood-testis barrier (BTB), which is essential for spermatogenesis. This study characterized the hormonal induction of functional Sertoli cell TJ formation in vivo using the gonadotropin-deficient hypogonadal (hpg) mouse that displays prepubertal spermatogenic arrest. Androgen actions were determined in hpg mice treated for 2 or 10 days with dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) actions were studied in hpg mice expressing transgenic human FSH (hpg+tgFSH) with or without DHT treatment. TJ formation was examined by mRNA expression and immunolocalization of TJ proteins claudin-3 and claudin-11, and barrier functionality was examined by biotin tracer permeability. Immunolocalization of claudin-3 and claudin-11 was extensive at wild-type (wt) Sertoli cell TJs, which functionally excluded permeability tracer. In contrast, seminiferous tubules of hpg testes lacked claudin-3, but claudin-11 protein was present in adluminal regions of Sertoli cells. Biotin tracer permeated throughout these tubules, demonstrating dysfunctional TJs. In hpg+tgFSH testes, claudin-3 was generally absent, but claudin-11 had redistributed basally toward the TJs, where function was variable. In hpg testes, DHT treatment stimulated the redistribution of claudin-11 protein toward the basal region of Sertoli cells by Day 2, increased Cldn3 and Cldn11 mRNA expression, then induced the formation of functional TJs containing both proteins by Day 10. In hpg+tgFSH testes, TJ protein redistribution was accelerated and functional TJs formed by Day 2 of DHT treatment. We conclude that androgen stimulates initial Sertoli cell TJ formation and function in mice, whereas FSH activity is insufficient alone, but augments androgen-induced TJ function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J McCabe
- Prince Henry's Institute, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Singh H, Heng S, Nicholls PK, Li Y, Tai LT, Jobling T, Salamonsen LA, Nie G. Proprotein convertases in post-menopausal endometrial cancer: distinctive regulation and non-invasive diagnosis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012; 419:809-14. [PMID: 22390935 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.02.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2012] [Accepted: 02/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Proprotein convertases (PCs) play critical roles in cleaving precursor proteins (growth factors, hormones, receptors and adhesion molecules) for activation. PCs are implicated in a number of cellular functions, including oncogenesis. Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in the developed world, but the involvement of PCs is unclear. To characterize the role of PCs in endometrial cancer, we assessed expression of seven PCs (PC1/3, PC2, PACE4, PC4, furin, PC5/6 and PC7) by RT-PCR in six well characterized endometrial cancer cell lines. Expression was variable in all lines, with furin being most consistently expressed in all cell lines tested. We next determined the cellular localization and expression levels of four ubiquitously expressed PCs (furin, PACE4, PC5/6 and PC7) in post-menopausal endometrial biopsies from control (n=7) and endometrial cancer patients (n=30) by immunohistochemistry. Furin increased in tumors, whereas PC5/6, PACE4 and PC7 expression was reduced with increasing cancer grades. Uterine lavage is a non-invasive source material for evaluating the endometrium. We thus assessed whether total PC activity was altered in uterine lavage of endometrial cancer patients (n=36) compared to controls (n=10). PC activity was detected in all uterine lavage samples, and significantly elevated in all grades of endometrial cancer. This study demonstrates a complex association between individual PCs and endometrial cancer. Importantly, we show that monitoring the total PC activity in uterine lavage may provide a rapid and non-invasive method for the diagnosis of endometrial cancer in postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harmeet Singh
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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Gibson-Kueh S, Chee D, Chen J, Wang YH, Tay S, Leong LN, Ng ML, Jones JB, Nicholls PK, Ferguson HW. The pathology of 'scale drop syndrome' in Asian seabass, Lates calcarifer Bloch, a first description. J Fish Dis 2012; 35:19-27. [PMID: 22103767 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2761.2011.01319.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
This is the first pathological description of 'scale drop syndrome' (SDS) in Asian seabass, Lates calcarifer Bloch. Cumulative mortality was estimated at 40-50%. The vasculitis in all major organs including the skin and associated tissue necrosis was distinctive. The dermis overlying scale beds was often necrotic and associated with scale loss. Necrosis of splenic ellipsoids, renal glomeruli and choroid rete glands of eye were further hallmarks of a disease with systemic vascular involvement. The brain was not spared vascular damage, and the resulting multifocal encephalomalacia probably accounts for the spiral swimming behaviour in some affected fish. Other lesions included accentuated hepatic lobulation and gastric gland necrosis. Nuclear chromatin margination and karyolysis in hepatocytes, renal tubular epithelium and gastric and intestinal epithelium suggest specific targeting of cells. Basophilic cytoplasmic inclusions were present in spleen, kidney, liver, heart and choroid rete, but they were not prominent. Using transmission electron microscopy, two morphological forms of virions were observed: single- and double-enveloped hexagonal virions. Based on size and morphology, these virions resemble iridovirus or herpesvirus. The cause of SDS is unknown, but the pathological changes, especially the vasculitis, suggest an infectious aetiology, possibly viral.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gibson-Kueh
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia.
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Nicholls PK, Harrison CA, Gregorevic P, McLachlan RI, O'Donnell L, Stanton PG. Hormonal Regulation of the Tubulobulbar Complex in the Testis. Biol Reprod 2011. [DOI: 10.1093/biolreprod/85.s1.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Stanton PG, Olcorn JS, Nicholls PK, McLachlan RI, Harrison CA. The Regulation of Sertoli Cell Micro-RNAs by TGFB3. Biol Reprod 2011. [DOI: 10.1093/biolreprod/85.s1.560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Nicholls PK, Sun Z, Heng S, Li Y, Wang J, Nie G. Embryo implantation is closely associated with dynamic expression of proprotein convertase 5/6 in the rabbit uterus. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2011; 9:43. [PMID: 21466712 PMCID: PMC3079634 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-9-43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2011] [Accepted: 04/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proprotein convertase 5/6 (PC5/6) is critical for embryo implantation in women, regulating both uterine epithelial receptivity and stromal cell decidualization. PC5/6 is likewise essential for implantation in mice, but involved only in decidualization. An alternative animal model is required to address the function of PC5/6 in the uterine epithelium. This study aimed to establish whether PC5/6 is associated with embryo implantation in rabbits. METHODS Virgin New-Zealand white rabbits aged 3-4 moths were mated with males of the same strain, or pseudo-pregnancy induced. After mating, uterine tissues were collected over a 10 day (d) period (n = 3 per time point) for RNA, protein and histological analyses to determine the temporal and spatial uterine expression pattern of PC5/6 during the initial stages of pregnancy or induced pseudo-pregnancy. RESULTS PC5/6 mRNA was up-regulated just prior to embryo attachment on d6, and the elevated expression was maintained throughout implantation on d6.5-10. Western analysis revealed a preferential up-regulation of PC5/6 in the implantation sites. Immunohistochemical analysis identified that both the amount and cellular localization of PC5/6 changed with increasing pregnancy stages. Before embryo attachment, PC5/6 was low and localised in the luminal and glandular epithelium. It increased on d6.5 in the basal glands and mucosal folds, and then strongly intensified on d7-10 in the multinucleated luminal symplasma and decidual cells at the site of embryo implantation. In contrast, the pseudo-pregnant uterus displayed relatively low and static PC6 mRNA expression throughout the 10 days, with no obvious changes in either PC5/6 level or cellular localization. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate that embryo implantation in the rabbit is closely associated with dynamic expression of uterine PC5/6, and that the rabbit may be an appropriate model to investigate the function of PC5/6 in the uterine epithelium during embryo attachment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Nicholls
- Prince Henrys Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Zhaogui Sun
- Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices of National Population and Family Planning Committee, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, 2140 Xie Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Sophea Heng
- Prince Henrys Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Ying Li
- Prince Henrys Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Jian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices of National Population and Family Planning Committee, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, 2140 Xie Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Guiying Nie
- Prince Henrys Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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Abstract
Spermatogenesis is absolutely dependent on FSH and androgens; suppression of these hormones inhibits germ cell development and thus sperm production. The final release of spermatids by the Sertoli cell, a process known as spermiation, is particularly sensitive to hormone suppression. To define the molecular mechanisms that mediate FSH and androgen effects in the Sertoli cell, we investigated the expression and regulation of micro-RNAs (miRNAs), small noncoding RNAs that regulate protein translation and modify cellular responses. By array analysis, we identified 23 miRNAs up-regulated more than 2-fold after hormone suppression in vivo and in vitro in primary Sertoli cell cultures. The regulation of four of these miRNAs (miR-23b, -30c, -30d, and -690) was confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR. Bioinformatic analysis of potential targets of hormonally regulated miRNAs identified genes important for focal adhesion and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, processes known to be intimately associated with adhesion of spermatids to Sertoli cells. Two of the identified genes, Pten, an intracellular phosphatase, and Eps15, a mediator of endocytosis, were down-regulated by the withdrawal of hormones in vivo and possess miR-23b target sites in their 3'-untranslated regions. Overexpression of miR-23b in vitro resulted in decreased translation of PTEN and EPS15 protein as assessed by Western blot and luciferase analysis. We conclude that FSH and androgens act on Sertoli cells in stage VIII to control the expression of miRNAs that operate in a coordinated manner to regulate cell adhesion pathways and male fertility and that miRNA transcription is a new paradigm in the hormone dependence of spermiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Nicholls
- Prince Henry's Institute, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton 3152, Victoria, Australia
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O'Donnell L, Nicholls PK, O'Bryan MK, McLachlan RI, Stanton PG. Spermiation: The process of sperm release. Spermatogenesis 2011; 1:14-35. [PMID: 21866274 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.1.1.14525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 239] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2010] [Revised: 12/16/2010] [Accepted: 12/17/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Spermiation is the process by which mature spermatids are released from Sertoli cells into the seminiferous tubule lumen prior to their passage to the epididymis. It takes place over several days at the apical edge of the seminiferous epithelium, and involves several discrete steps including remodelling of the spermatid head and cytoplasm, removal of specialized adhesion structures and the final disengagement of the spermatid from the Sertoli cell. Spermiation is accomplished by the co-ordinated interactions of various structures, cellular processes and adhesion complexes which make up the "spermiation machinery". This review addresses the morphological, ultrastructural and functional aspects of mammalian spermiation. The molecular composition of the spermiation machinery, its dynamic changes and regulatory factors are examined. The causes of spermiation failure and their impact on sperm morphology and function are assessed in an effort to understand how this process may contribute to sperm count suppression during contraception and to phenotypes of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza O'Donnell
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research; Clayton, VIC Australia
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Yap J, Salamonsen LA, Jobling T, Nicholls PK, Dimitriadis E. Interleukin 11 is upregulated in uterine lavage and endometrial cancer cells in women with endometrial carcinoma. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2010; 8:63. [PMID: 20553623 PMCID: PMC2901310 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-8-63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2010] [Accepted: 06/17/2010] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interleukin (IL) 11 is produced by human endometrium and endometrial cancer tissue. It has roles in endometrial epithelial cell adhesion and trophoblast cell invasion, two important processes in cancer progression. This study aimed to determine the levels of IL11 in uterine lavage fluid in women with endometrial cancer and postmenopausal women. It further aimed to determine the levels of IL11 protein and its signaling molecules in human endometrial cancer of varying grades, and endometrium from postmenopausal women and IL11 signalling mechanisms in endometrial cancer cell lines. METHODS IL11 levels in uterine lavage were measured by ELISA. IL11, IL11 receptor(R) alpha, phosphorylated (p) STAT3 and SOCS3 were examined by immunohistochemistry in endometrial carcinomas and in control endometrium from postmenopausal women and normal cycling women. The effect of IL11 on pSTAT3/STAT3 and SOCS3 protein abundance in endometrial cancer cell lines and non-cancer endometrial epithelial cells was determined by Western blot. RESULTS IL11 was present in uterine flushings and was significantly higher in women with Grade 1 carcinomas compared to postmenopausal women (p < 0.05). IL11 immunostaining was significantly elevated in the endometrial tumour epithelial cells from Grade 1 and 3 compared to endometrial epithelium from postmenopausal and cycling women. IL11R alpha immunostaining intensity was increased in cancer epithelium in the Grades 1 and 2 tumours compared to epithelium from postmenopausal women. Both IL11 and IL11R alpha localized to vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells while IL11 also localized to subsets of leucocytes in the cancer tissues. pSTAT3 was found in both the tumour epithelial and stromal compartments but was maximal in the tumour epithelial cells, while SOCS3 was predominantly found in the tumour epithelial cells. pSTAT3 staining intensity was significantly higher in Grade 1 and 2 tumour epithelial cells compared to epithelial cells from cycling and postmenopausal women. SOCS3 staining intensity did not differ between between each tumour and postmenopausal endometrial epithelium but SOCS3 in cycling endometrium was significantly higher compared to postmenopausal and Tumour Grades 2 and 3. IL11 increased pSTAT3/STAT3 in all tumour cell lines, while SOCS3 abundance was increased only in one tumour cell line. CONCLUSIONS The present study suggests that IL11 in uterine washings may be useful as a diagnostic marker for early stage endometrial cancer. It indicates that IL11, along with its specific receptor, IL11R alpha, and downstream signalling molecules, STAT3 and SOCS3, are likely to play a role in the progression of endometrial carcinoma. The precise role of IL11 in endometrial cancer remains to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Yap
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Tom Jobling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Peter K Nicholls
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton VIC, 3168, Australia
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Stephens AN, Hannan NJ, Rainczuk A, Meehan KL, Chen J, Nicholls PK, Rombauts LJF, Stanton PG, Robertson DM, Salamonsen LA. Post-Translational Modifications and Protein-Specific Isoforms in Endometriosis Revealed by 2D DIGE. J Proteome Res 2010; 9:2438-49. [DOI: 10.1021/pr901131p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Bearham D, Spiers ZB, Raidal SR, Jones JB, Nicholls PK. Detection of Minchinia occulta in samples of pearl oysters Pinctada maxima infected by Haplosporidium hinei. Aust Vet J 2010; 87:430-7. [PMID: 19857233 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2009.00507.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if juvenile pearl oysters (Pinctada maxima) infected with Haplosporidium hinei are also infected with another haplosporidian parasite, Minchinia occulta. DESIGN Archived samples of pearl oysters infected with H. hinei were examined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays and in situ hybridisation (ISH) to analyse and identify haplosporidians. A 144-bp and 220-bp region of Minchinia DNA were targeted by PCR and amplified DNA from formalin-fixed H. hinei-infected pearl oyster samples was sequenced. A 25-bp oligonucleotide probe targeting a variable section of the parasite's small subunit rRNA gene was used in ISH. RESULTS The results of DNA-based diagnostic assays supported each other. The sequences obtained by PCR were found to be almost identical to M. occulta from rock oysters and the ISH assay demonstrated infection with M. occulta in affected pearl oysters. ISH indicated a prevalence of infection of 26.7% in one of the previous outbreaks. CONCLUSION Pearl oyster spat are susceptible to infection by a Minchinia parasite, most likely M. occulta, which was recently identified in rock oysters within the pearl-producing zones of Western Australia and is associated with mortalities of up to 80% in this species. The occurrence of haplosporidian co-infections in pearl oysters suggests the immunocompetence of juvenile oysters may be an important factor in preventing infection and therefore preventing mortalities such as those occurring in the recent outbreaks of pearl oyster oedema disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Bearham
- Fish Health Unit, Murdoch University, School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Perth, WA, Australia.
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Papageorgiou I, Nicholls PK, Wang F, Lackmann M, Makanji Y, Salamonsen LA, Robertson DM, Harrison CA. Expression of nodal signalling components in cycling human endometrium and in endometrial cancer. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:122. [PMID: 19874624 PMCID: PMC2774317 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2009] [Accepted: 10/29/2009] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human endometrium is unique in its capacity to remodel constantly throughout adult reproductive life. Although the processes of tissue damage and breakdown in the endometrium have been well studied, little is known of how endometrial regeneration is achieved after menstruation. Nodal, a member of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily, regulates the processes of pattern formation and differentiation that occur during early embryo development. METHODS In this study, the expression of Nodal, Cripto (co-receptor) and Lefty A (antagonist) was examined by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry across the menstrual cycle and in endometrial carcinomas. RESULTS Nodal and Cripto were found to be expressed at high levels in both stromal and epithelial cells during the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle. Although immunoreactivity for both proteins in surface and glandular epithelium was maintained at relatively steady-state levels across the cycle, their expression was significantly decreased within the stromal compartment by the mid-secretory phase. Lefty expression, as has previously been reported, was primarily restricted to glandular epithelium and surrounding stroma during the late secretory and menstrual phases. In line with recent studies that have shown that Nodal pathway activity is upregulated in many human cancers, we found that Nodal and Cripto immunoreactivity increased dramatically in the transition from histologic Grade 1 to histologic Grades 2 and 3 endometrial carcinomas. Strikingly, Lefty expression was low or absent in all cancer tissues. CONCLUSION The expression of Nodal in normal and malignant endometrial cells that lack Lefty strongly supports an important role for this embryonic morphogen in the tissue remodelling events that occur across the menstrual cycle and in tumourogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Papageorgiou
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Vic 3168, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, Vic 3168, Australia
| | - Peter K Nicholls
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Vic 3168, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Vic 3168, Australia
| | - Fang Wang
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Vic 3168, Australia
| | - Martin Lackmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Vic 3168, Australia
| | - Yogeshwar Makanji
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Vic 3168, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, Vic 3168, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Vic 3168, Australia
| | - David M Robertson
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Vic 3168, Australia
| | - Craig A Harrison
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Vic 3168, Australia
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Chen JIC, Hannan NJ, Mak Y, Nicholls PK, Zhang J, Rainczuk A, Stanton PG, Robertson DM, Salamonsen LA, Stephens AN. Proteomic characterization of midproliferative and midsecretory human endometrium. J Proteome Res 2009; 8:2032-44. [PMID: 19714818 DOI: 10.1021/pr801024g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to identify proteins differentially expressed in the human endometrium between the proliferative and secretory phases of normal menstrual cycles by 2D differential in-gel electrophoresis (DIGE). A total of 196 out of 1017 spots were differentially expressed (p < 0.05). Mass spectrometry identified 76 proteins representing 41 different gene products. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the observed changes in 3 representative proteins (Rho-GDIalpha, CLIC1, PGRMC1). Biological pathway analysis identified the Jnk and EGF signaling pathways as key regulators of protein expression in the midsecretory phase of endometrial proteome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny I C Chen
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, P.O. Box 5152, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
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31
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Wang Y, Nicholls PK, Stanton PG, Harrison CA, Sarraj M, Gilchrist RB, Findlay JK, Farnworth PG. Extra-ovarian expression and activity of growth differentiation factor 9. J Endocrinol 2009; 202:419-30. [PMID: 19505950 DOI: 10.1677/joe-08-0563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) produced within the ovary plays an essential role during follicle maturation through actions on granulosa cells, but extra-ovarian expression, signalling and actions of GDF9 are less well characterised. The present studies confirm GDF9 expression in the mouse testis, pituitary gland and adrenocortical cancer (AC) cells, and establish its expression in L beta T2 gonadotrophs, and in mouse adrenal glands, particularly foetal and neonatal cortical cells. AC, L beta T2, TM3 Leydig and TM4 Sertoli cells express the requisite GDF9 binding signalling components, particularly activin receptor-like kinase (ALK) 5 and the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)/GDF type II receptor, BMPRII (BMPR2). We therefore compared GDF9 activation of these potential extra-ovarian target cell types with its activation of granulosa cells. Recombinant mouse GDF9 stimulated expression of activin/transforming growth factor-beta-responsive reporters, pGRAS-luc or pAR3-lux, in TM4 and AC cells (IC50=145 ng/ml in the latter case), and two granulosa cell lines, KGN and COV434. The ALK4/5/7 inhibitor, SB431542, blocked GDF9 activity in each case. By contrast, GDF9 lacked specific effects on TM3 cells and rat primary pituitary and mouse L beta T2 gonadotrophs. Our findings show that GDF9 regulates the expression of R-SMAD2/3-responsive reporter genes through ALK4, 5 or 7 in extra-ovarian (adrenocortical and Sertoli) cells with similar potency and signalling pathway to its actions on granulosa cells, but suggest that expression of BMPRII, ALK5 (TGFBR1) and R-SMADs 2 and 3 may not be sufficient for a cell to respond to GDF9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, PO Box 5152, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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32
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Mansfield CS, James FE, Craven M, Davies DR, O'Hara AJ, Nicholls PK, Dogan B, MacDonough SP, Simpson KW. Remission of histiocytic ulcerative colitis in Boxer dogs correlates with eradication of invasive intramucosal Escherichia coli. J Vet Intern Med 2009; 23:964-9. [PMID: 19678891 DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2009.0363.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Historically, histiocytic ulcerative (HUC) (or granulomatous) colitis of Boxer dogs was considered an idiopathic immune-mediated disease with a poor prognosis. Recent reports of dramatic responses to enrofloxacin and the discovery of invasive Escherichia coli within the colonic mucosa of affected Boxer dogs support an infectious etiology. HYPOTHESIS Invasive E. coli is associated with colonic inflammation in Boxer dogs with HUC, and eradication of intramucosal E. coli correlates with clinical and histologic remission. ANIMALS Seven Boxer dogs with HUC. METHODS Prospective case series. Colonic biopsies were obtained at initial evaluation in 7 dogs, and in 5 dogs after treatment with enrofloxacin. Biopsies were evaluated by standardized histopathology, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with probes to eubacteria and E. coli. RESULTS Intramucosal E. coli was present in colonic biopsies of 7/7 Boxers with HUC. Clinical response was noted in all dogs within 2 weeks of enrofloxacin (7 + or - 3.06 mg/kg q24 h, for 9.5 + or - 3.98 weeks) and was sustained in 6 dogs (median disease-free interval to date of 47 months, range 17-62). FISH was negative for E. coli in 4/5 dogs after enrofloxacin. E. coli resistant to enrofloxacin were present in the FISH-positive dog that relapsed. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The correlation between clinical remission and the eradication of mucosally invasive E. coli during treatment with enrofloxacin supports the causal involvement of E. coli in the development of HUC in susceptible Boxer dogs. A poor response to enrofloxacin treatment might be due to colonization with enrofloxacin-resistant E. coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Mansfield
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia.
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33
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Abstract
Oocyte-secreted growth differentiation factor (GDF) 9 and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 15 are critical regulatory factors in female reproduction. Together, they promote granulosa cell proliferation and stimulate the maturation of preovulatory follicles. Despite their importance in female fertility, GDF9 and BMP15 expression patterns and function during spermatogenesis have not been investigated. In this study we show that the expression and stage-specific localization of both factors are limited to the germ cells of the rat seminiferous epithelium, with GDF9 being principally localized in round spermatids and BMP15 in gonocytes and pachytene spermatocytes. To identify potential cellular targets for GDF9 actions, cells of the seminiferous tubule were isolated and screened for the expression of signaling receptors [activin-like kinase (ALK) 5, ALK6, and BMP receptor, type II)]. Individual receptor types were expressed throughout the seminiferous epithelium, but coexpression of ALK5 and BMP receptor, type II was limited to Sertoli cells and round spermatids. Based on the reproductive actions of related TGFbeta ligands in the ovary and testis, GDF9 was assessed for its ability to regulate tight junction function and inhibin B production in rat Sertoli cell cultures. When recombinant mouse GDF9 was added to immature Sertoli cell cultures, it inhibited membrane localization of the junctional proteins claudin-11, occludin, and zonula occludens-1, thereby disrupting tight junction integrity. Concomitantly, GDF9 up-regulated inhibin subunit expression and significantly stimulated dimeric inhibin B protein production. Together, these results demonstrate that GDF9 and BMP15 are germ cell-specific factors in the rat testis, and that GDF9 can modulate key Sertoli cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Nicholls
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, P.O. Box 5152, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia
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Russell NJ, Irwin PJ, Hopper BJ, Olivry T, Nicholls PK. Acute necrotising pulmonary vasculitis and pulmonary hypertension in a juvenile dog. J Small Anim Pract 2008; 49:349-55. [PMID: 18638059 DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-5827.2008.00253.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
A five-month-old female Jack Russell terrier was presented for investigation of acute lethargy, anorexia, coughing, respiratory distress and weakness. Examination findings included cyanosis, a grade 3 of 6 systolic heart murmur and prolonged capillary refill time. Radiography and echocardiography revealed severe pulmonary hypertension, cor pulmonale and right-sided heart failure. Indirect measurement of the systolic pulmonary artery pressure estimated pressures over 100 mmHg. Despite treatment the patient died. Post-mortem examination did not identify a congenital cardiovascular anomaly. Histopathology confirmed acute necrotising pulmonary arteritis and immunohistochemistry failed to identify any immune complex or complement deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Russell
- School of Veterinary & Biomedical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Clinical Science, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
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35
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Woolford L, O'Hara AJ, Bennett MD, Slaven M, Swan R, Friend JA, Ducki A, Sims C, Hill S, Nicholls PK, Warren KS. Cutaneous papillomatosis and carcinomatosis in the Western barred bandicoot (Perameles bougainville). Vet Pathol 2008; 45:95-103. [PMID: 18192585 DOI: 10.1354/vp.45-1-95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
A progressive wart-like syndrome in both captive and wild populations of the Western barred bandicoot (WBB) is hindering conservation efforts to prevent the extinction of this endangered marsupial. In this study, 42 WBBs exhibiting the papillomatosis and carcinomatosis syndrome were examined. The disease was characterized by multicentric proliferative lesions involving cutaneous and mucosal surfaces, which were seen clinically to increase in size with time. Grossly and histologically the smaller skin lesions resembled papillomas, whereas the larger lesions were most commonly observed to be squamous cell carcinomas. Large amphophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies were observed in hyperplastic conjunctival lesions of 8 WBBs under light microscopy. Conjunctival lesions from 2 WBBs examined using transmission electron microscopy contained a crystalline array of spherical electron-dense particles of 45-nm diameter, within the nucleus of conjunctival epithelial cells, consistent with a papillomavirus or polyomavirus. Conjunctival samples from 3 bandicoots that contained intranuclear inclusion bodies also demonstrated a positive immunohistochemical reaction after indirect immunohistochemistry for papillomavirus structural antigens. Ultrastructural and/or immunohistochemical evidence of an etiologic agent was not identified in the nonconjunctival lesions examined. Here we describe the gross, histopathologic, ultrastructural, and immunohistochemical findings of a papillomatosis and carcinomatosis syndrome recently identified in the WBB.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Woolford
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia.
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36
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Abstract
A 6-year-old desexed female German Shepherd dog was referred to the Murdoch University Veterinary Hospital for assessment and management of acute onset vomiting, diarrhoea, polydipsia and lethargy of 2 days duration. Surgical, microbiological and histological findings were consistent with necrotising cholecystitis secondary to gall bladder torsion, resulting in gall bladder rupture and secondary non-septic bile peritonitis. A chronic peritoneopleural perforation resulting from an abdominal cavity foreign body and congenital peritoneopericardial hernia were also present. The dog made a full recovery following cholecystectomy, foreign body removal, repair of the peritoneopleural perforation and peritoneopericardial herniorrhaphy. This is the first recorded case of gall bladder torsion in the dog.
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Affiliation(s)
- G S Corfield
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, Murdoch University.
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37
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Bennett MD, Woolford L, O'Hara AJ, Nicholls PK, Warren KS, Friend JA, Swan RA. Klossiella quimrensis (Apicomplexa: Klossiellidae) causes renal coccidiosis in western barred bandicoots Perameles bougainville (Marsupialia: Peramelidae) in Western Australia. J Parasitol 2007; 93:89-92. [PMID: 17436946 DOI: 10.1645/ge-1023.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have described a range of Klossiella species parasitic in marsupial hosts. Klossiella quimrensis is the etiologic agent of renal coccidiosis in the peramelid marsupial hosts Isoodon obesulus and Perameles gunnii in Eastern Australia, but there is no previous report of klossiellosis in Western Australian peramelids. This study describes klossiellosis diagnosed by histology of renal tissue sections collected during necropsy of 20 Perameles bougainville between 2000 and 2005. Sporonts, sporoblasts, and macrogametes were identified within parasitophorous vacuoles of epithelial cells located near the renal corticomedullary junction. The prevalence of renal coccidiosis in P. bougainville diagnosed by renal histology is estimated at 30%. Only a single unsporulated sporocyst was detected by examination of cystocentesis-collected urine, indicating that microscopic evaluation of urine samples is an insensitive diagnostic test for detection of K. quimrensis in P. bougainville. This infection in P. bougainville is indirectly associated with mild multifocal interstitial lymphohistiocytic nephritis and is likely to be only minimally pathogenic in otherwise healthy individuals. Our study also extends the host and geographic range of K. quimrensis to include P. bougainville and Western Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Bennett
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Science, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia 6150.
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38
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Bennett MD, Woolford L, Ohara AJ, Nicholls PK, Warren K, Hobbs RP. A new eimeria species parasitic in western barred bandicoots, Perameles bougainville (Marsupialia: Peramelidae), in western Australia. J Parasitol 2007; 92:1292-4. [PMID: 17304809 DOI: 10.1645/ge-892r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Feces from western barred bandicoots, Perameles bougainville, examined during routine monitoring of captive breeding colonies and wild populations were frequently found to contain oocysts. Fecal oocysts from 1 individual housed at Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre were allowed to sporulate in 2% potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) at room temperature. Sporulated oocysts are subspheroidal 18.8 X 17.9 (16.9-21.0 x 16.0-19.9) microm, with length/width (L/W) ratio of 1.05 (1.00-1.15), lack a micropyle and oocyst residuum, but they usually have a polar granule within a smooth trilaminate oocyst wall 1.0 (0.7-1.3) microm thick. Sporocysts are ovoid, 9.1 x 7.0 (8.1-10.8 x 6.1-8.6) microm, with L/W ratio of 1.32 (1.04-1.51), have a Stieda body, sporocyst residuum, and 2 comma-shaped sporozoites, each containing 2 spheroidal refractile bodies. Sporulation takes 2-5 days at room temperature. This is the first formal description of an Eimeria species parasitic in the order Peramelemorphia.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Bennett
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia.
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39
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Gibbons LM, Nicholls PK, Bailey T, Samour J. Paraspiralatus sakeri n. g., n. sp. (Nematoda: Spiruroidea, Spirocercidae) from saker falcons, Falco cherrug in Saudi Arabia and the first report of larvae from the subcutaneous tissues of houbara bustards, Chlamydotis undulata macqueeni in Pakistan. J Helminthol 2007; 78:33-40. [PMID: 14972034 DOI: 10.1079/joh2003209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
AbstractA new nematode genus and species, Paraspiralatus sakeri , is described from the stomach of a wild-caught, female saker falcon in Saudi Arabia. This spirurid differs from the nearest genus and species Spiralatus baeri Chabaud, Brygoo & Durette, 1963 in the shape of the pseudolabia, shape of the buccal capsule and absence of a large cephalic vesicle. In addition, third stage spirurid larvae were recovered for the first time from subcutaneous tissues of two houbara bustards. These had died in the Rahim Yar Khan Rehabilitation Center (Houbara Foundation International, Lahore, Pakistan) in Pakistan and were examined at the National Avian Research Center in the United Arab Emirates. The morphology of the larvae and host pathology are described. Comparative studies with the adult spirurids from the saker falcon showed each to have similar cephalic and pharyngeal morphological features to the adults described indicating they are probably the same species. Spirurid nematodes of the suborder Spirurina normally have an arthropod intermediate host. In view of the host, the site from which the larvae were recovered and the fact that this is a rare occurrence, the houbara bustard is considered to be a paratenic host.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Gibbons
- Department of Pathology and Infectious Diseases, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK.
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40
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Abstract
Hyperadrenocorticism occurs much less frequently in cats than in dogs and, at present, is more difficult to manage successfully. This report documents the use of the steroid synthesis inhibitor trilostane for the treatment of hyperadrenocorticism in a domestic shorthaired cat with pituitary-dependent disease. Although trilostane was able to alleviate the severity of the clinical signs and was well tolerated, the cat subsequently died of renal failure secondary to a fungal infection of the urinary tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Skelly
- The Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA
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Moore RA, Nicholls PK, Santos EB, Gough GW, Stanley MA. Absence of canine oral papillomavirus DNA following prophylactic L1 particle-mediated immunotherapeutic delivery vaccination. J Gen Virol 2002; 83:2299-2301. [PMID: 12185285 DOI: 10.1099/0022-1317-83-9-2299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In the canine oral papillomavirus (COPV) model, following wart regression, COPV DNA was detected by PCR at the challenge site. However, following particle-mediated immunotherapeutic delivery (PMID) of COPV L1 and subsequent challenge, no COPV DNA could be detected. These data support PMID of COPV L1 as a protective vaccine and suggest that PMID of L1 may induce virus clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Moore
- Department of Pathology, Cambridge University, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK1
| | - P K Nicholls
- Department of Pathology, Cambridge University, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK1
| | - E B Santos
- Department of Pathology, Cambridge University, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK1
| | - G W Gough
- Glaxo Smithkline Research and Development, Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, UK2
| | - M A Stanley
- Department of Pathology, Cambridge University, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK1
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Nicholls PK, Doorbar J, Moore RA, Peh W, Anderson DM, Stanley MA. Detection of Viral DNA and E4 Protein in Basal Keratinocytes of Experimental Canine Oral Papillomavirus Lesions. Virology 2001; 284:82-98. [PMID: 11352670 DOI: 10.1006/viro.2001.0868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We studied experimental canine oral papillomavirus (COPV) infection by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry of weekly biopsies. After 4 weeks, viral DNA in rete ridges suggested a keratinocyte stem cell target. Abundant viral DNA was seen in E4-positive cells only. E4 was predominantly cytoplasmic but also nuclear, being concentrated in the nucleoli during wart formation. Infected cells spread laterally along the basal layer and into the parabasal layers, accompanied by E7 transcription and increased mitoses. Most of the lower epithelium was positive for viral DNA, but, in mature warts, higher levels of E4 expression and genome amplification occurred in only sporadic superficial cells. L1 expression was late and in only a subset of E4-positive cells. During regression, viral DNA was less abundant in deep epithelial layers, suggesting downregulation of replication prior to replacement of infected cells from beneath. Detection of viral DNA in post-regression tissue indicated latent infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- P K Nicholls
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, United Kingdom.
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43
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Nicholls PK, Moore PF, Anderson DM, Moore RA, Parry NR, Gough GW, Stanley MA. Regression of canine oral papillomas is associated with infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes. Virology 2001; 283:31-9. [PMID: 11312659 DOI: 10.1006/viro.2000.0789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Canine oral papillomavirus (COPV) infection is used in vaccine development against mucosal papillomaviruses. The predictable, spontaneous regression of the papillomas makes this an attractive system for analysis of cellular immunity. Immunohistochemical analysis of the timing and phenotype of immune cell infiltration revealed a marked influx of leukocytes during wart regression, including abundant CD4+ and CD8+ cells, with CD4+ cells being most numerous. Comparison of these findings, and those of immunohistochemistry using TCRalphabeta-, TCRgammadelta-, CD1a-, CD1c-, CD11a-, CD11b-, CD11c-, CD18-, CD21-, and CD49d-specific monoclonal antibodies, with previously published work in the human, ox, and rabbit models revealed important differences between these systems. Unlike bovine papillomavirus lesions, those of COPV do not have a significant gamma/delta T-cell infiltrate. Furthermore, COPV lesions had numerous CD4+ cells, unlike cottontail rabbit papillomavirus lesions. The lymphocyte infiltrate in the dog resembled that in human papillomavirus lesions, indicating that COPV is an appropriate model for human papillomavirus immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- P K Nicholls
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, United Kingdom.
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44
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Stanley MA, Moore RA, Nicholls PK, Santos EB, Thomsen L, Parry N, Walcott S, Gough G. Intra-epithelial vaccination with COPV L1 DNA by particle-mediated DNA delivery protects against mucosal challenge with infectious COPV in beagle dogs. Vaccine 2001; 19:2783-92. [PMID: 11282188 DOI: 10.1016/s0264-410x(00)00533-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Protection against viral challenge with canine oral papillomavirus (COPV) was achieved by immunisation via particle-mediated DNA delivery (PMDD) of a plasmid encoding the COPV L1 gene to cutaneous and oral mucosal sites in beagle dogs. The initial dose of approximately 9 microg of DNA was followed by two booster doses at 6 week intervals. A similar approach was used to vaccinate a control group of animals with plasmid DNA encoding the Hepatitis B virus S gene. Following challenge at the oral mucosa with COPV all animals vaccinated with the COPV L1 gene were protected against disease. However five of six animals in the control group developed COPV induced papillomas at the oral mucosa. Both cell-mediated lymphoproliferative and humoral antibody responses to the DNA vaccine were observed. Our data indicate that PMDD of plasmid DNA can protect against mucosal challenge with papillomavirus.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Stanley
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
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45
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Petrus
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire
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46
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Abstract
Papillomaviruses are species- and tissue-specific double-stranded DNA viruses. These viruses cause epithelial tumours in many animals, including man. Typically, the benign warts undergo spontaneous, immune-mediated regression, most likely effected by T-cells (especially CD4, but also CD8 subsets), whereas humoral immunity can prevent new infections. Some papillomavirus infections fail to regress spontaneously and others progress to malignant epithelial tumours. Additionally, the impact of these lesions is greater in immunosuppressed individuals. Many therapies are ineffective, and there is much interest in the potential for immunological intervention in papillomavirus infections of man and animals. Vaccination can be achieved with 'live' virus, formalin-inactivated virus, synthetic virus-like particles, and DNA vaccination. There has been much recent progress in the development of such vaccines for papillomavirus infections in the rabbit, ox and dog. Success in these animal models suggests that similar approaches may prove useful for prophylactic or therapeutic vaccination against the important human papillomaviruses involved in the development of cutaneous and anogenital warts, laryngeal papillomatosis, and cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- P K Nicholls
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, UK.
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Nicholls PK, Klaunberg BA, Moore RA, Santos EB, Parry NR, Gough GW, Stanley MA. Naturally occurring, nonregressing canine oral papillomavirus infection: host immunity, virus characterization, and experimental infection. Virology 1999; 265:365-74. [PMID: 10600607 DOI: 10.1006/viro.1999.0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Papillomaviruses occasionally cause severe, nonregressing or recurrent infections in their human and animal hosts. The mechanisms underlying these atypical infections are not known. Canine oral papillomavirus (COPV) typically regresses spontaneously and is an important model of mucosal human papillomavirus infections. A severe, naturally occurring, nonregressing COPV infection provided an opportunity to investigate some aspects of viral pathogenicity and host immunity. In this case, the papillomas proved refractory to surgical and medical treatments, including autogenous vaccination and vaccination with capsid (L1) virus-like particles. High levels of induced anti-L1 antibodies appeared to have no effect on the infection. The papillomas spread to oesophageal mucosa, perioral haired skin, and remote cutaneous sites. Isolation of COPV from the animal and sequencing of several regions of the viral genome showed no differences to the COPV prototype. Experimental infection of beagle dogs with this viral isolate resulted in the uncomplicated development and regression of oral warts within the usual period, indicating that the virus was not an unusual pathogenic variant. These findings support the hypothesis that the recurrent lesions seen in some human papillomavirus infections, such as recurrent laryngeal papillomatosis, are associated with specific defects in host immunity rather than variations in viral pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- P K Nicholls
- Department of Pathology and Infectious Diseases, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, United Kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- P K Nicholls
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
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Bailey TA, Nicholls PK, Wernery U, Samour J, Cooper JE, O'Leary MT. Avian paramyxovirus type 1 infection in houbara bustards (Chlamydotis undulata macqueenii): clinical and pathologic findings. J Zoo Wildl Med 1997; 28:325-30. [PMID: 9365947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical and pathologic findings of avian paramyxovirus type 1 (PMV-1) in 19 houbara bustards (Chlamydotis undulata macqueenii) imported from Pakistan into the United Arab Emirates and one captive-bred bird are reported. Clinical signs included circling, walking backward, ataxia, opisthotonos, torticollis, recumbency, head tilt, head shaking, head tremor, tucking of head under keel, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, and diarrhea. The length of time imported birds exhibited clinical signs varied from 4 days to 18 mo after importation. Hemagglutinating antibodies against PMV-1 were detected in the sera of all 17 birds from which blood samples were collected, and PMV-1 was isolated from pooled brain, spleen, and lung tissues from two birds with acute clinical signs. There were no distinctive gross lesions at necropsy, and histologic findings were consistent with but not pathognomonic for PMV-1. All houbara bustards managed in a captive breeding and restoration program established by the National Avian Research Center have been vaccinated against PMV-1 since October 1992, and no case of PMV-1 has been reported in this collection since that time.
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Affiliation(s)
- T A Bailey
- National Avian Research Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Abstract
Clinical, pathological, and epidemiological findings are presented on fatty liver syndrome mainly in houbara bustards (Chlamydotis undulata macqueenii), but also in some other bustard species. Of 72 houbara bustards, 34 (47%) had fatty liver diagnosed post-mortem. Males and females were equally susceptible, and both adults and juvenile birds were affected. Bustards with fatty liver had significantly greater abdominal fat reserves than unaffected birds. Other predisposing factors included poor husbandry, translocation between aviaries, handling and capture paresis.
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Affiliation(s)
- P K Nicholls
- Animal Pathology Division, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, UK
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