الملخص
Background Flurochloridone (FLC) is toxic to male reproduction and can induce apoptosis of testicular tissue and supporting cells under oxidative stress. Of particular concern is whether nuclear factor-erythrocyte 2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 (Nrf2/HO-1) signaling pathway and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) signaling pathway participate this process. Objective To observe apoptosis of testicular tissue and sertoli TM4 cells and alterations of Nrf2/HO-1 and NFκB signaling pathways in mice treated with FLC in vivo/in vitro. Methods (1) Animal experiment. Testis samples were harvested from male C57BL/6 mice after 28-day FLC (0, 3, 15, 75, and 375 mg·kg−1 per day) exposure via oral route. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in homogenate of testicular tissue were measured by colorimetry. Apoptosis of testicular tissue was evaluated by TUNEL staining. Expression and distribution of Nrf2 and NFκB were detected by immunohistochemistry. Protein expression levels of Nrf2, HO-1, NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), NFκB, inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase subunit beta (IKKβ), and phosphorylated recombinant inhibitory subunit of nuclear factor kappa-B alpha (P-IκBα) in testicular tissue homogenate were determined by Western blotting. (2) Cell experiment. TM4 cell lines were treated with 40, 80, 120, 160, and 200 μmol·L−1 FLC for 6 h, and cell viability was detected by CCK-8. After 6 h exposure to 40, 80, and 160 μmol·L−1 FLC, the apoptosis rate was detected by flow cytometry, and the protein expression levels of Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1, NFκB, IKKβ, and IκBα were detected by Western blotting. Results (1) Animal experiment. Apoptosis occurred in the interstitial and basal parts of spermatogenic tubules in male C57BL/6 mice after 28 days of oral FLC exposure. Compared with the control group, the MDA level in testicular tissue of the 375 mg·kg−1 FLC-treated group was significantly increased (P<0.05), and the SOD activity was significantly decreased (P<0.05). After 375 mg·kg−1 FLC exposure, apoptosis occurred in the interstitial and basal parts of spermatogenic tubules. The results of immunohistochemistry showed the expression of Nrf2 and NFκB in the interstitium and basal part of spermatogenic tubules of the treated groups. Compared with the control group, the protein levels of Nrf2, NQO1, P-IκBα, NFκB, and IKKβ in the 15, 75, and 375 mg·kg-1 groups were significantly increased (P<0.001), and the HO-1 protein level was significantly increased in the 375 mg·kg−1 group (P<0.001). (2) Cell experiment. Compared with the control group, the TM4 cell viabilities in the 40, 80, 120, 160, and 200 μmol·L−1 FLC-treated groups significantly decreased (P<0.01). The apoptosis rates were significantly increased (P<0.05), and the apoptosis rates increased from 5.7% in the control group to 7.4%, 9.4%, and 11.7% in the 40, 80, and 160 μmol·L−1, respectively. The Nrf2 protein level in the 40 μmol·L−1 group was significantly increased (P<0.01), while the levels significantly decreased in the 80 and 160 μmol·L−1 groups (P<0.01). The HO-1 protein levels in the 40, 80, and 160 μmol·L−1 groups were significantly increased (P<0.01). The level of NQO1 protein in the 40 μmol·L−1 group was significantly increased (P<0.01). The NFκB protein levels were significantly increased in the 80 and 160 μmol·L−1 groups (P<0.001). The IκBα protein levels were significantly decreased in all treated groups (P<0.001). The IKKβ protein had no significant change. Conclusion FLC induces testicular tissue apoptosis, and the process affects Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway and NFκB signaling pathway. The in vitro study confirms that FLC could induce apoptosis of TM4 cells and activate Nrf2/HO-1 and NFκB signaling pathways.
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Mammalian testis exhibits remarkably high transcriptome complexity, and spermatogenesis undergoes two periods of transcriptional cessation. These make the RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) the utmost importance during male germ cell development. Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) are a large family of RBPs implicated in many steps of RNA processing; however, their roles in spermatogenesis are largely unknown. Here, we investigated the expression pattern of 12 hnRNP family members in mouse testes and found that most detected members are highly expressed in the testis. Furthermore, we found that most of the detected hnRNP proteins (hnRNPD, hnRNPK, hnRNPQ, hnRNPU, and hnRNPUL1) display the highest signals in the nuclei of pachytene spermatocytes, round spermatids, and Sertoli cells, whereas hnRNPE1 exclusively concentrates in the manchette of elongating spermatids. The expression of these hnRNP proteins showed both similarities and specificity, suggesting their diverse roles in spermatogenesis.
الموضوعات
Mice , Male , Animals , Heterogeneous-Nuclear Ribonucleoproteins/metabolism , Spermatogenesis/genetics , Testis/metabolism , Spermatids/metabolism , Sertoli Cells , Spermatocytes/metabolism , RNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism , Mammalsالملخص
Aim To investigate the role of autophagy in the dysfunction of testicular TM4 cell junction induced by ERα down-regulation. Methods TM4 cells were treated with different concentrations of E R a inhibitor ICI182780 (ICI), and the proliferative activity of TM4 cells was detected by CCK-8 method. The number and morphological changes of TM4 cells were observed by light microscope. The levels of E R a, junction function related proteins and autophagy marker proteins were detected by Western blot. The expression and localization of Cx43 were detected by immunofluorescence staining. The cells were treated with chloroquine (CQ) and ICI for 24 h. The expression levels of autophagy and junction function related proteins were detected by Western blot. Results When ICI concentration was 50 nmol • L ~ or above, the cell viability decreased significantly. The increase of cell vacuoles in ICI group was observed by light microscope. Compared with normal control group, the protein expression levels of E R a, ZO-1, occludin, claudin-11, p-catenin and Cx43 in ICI groups significantly dropped, while the expression levels of N-cadherin and E-cadherin had no significant changes; LC3 II significantly rose, while p62 expression significantly fell. The results of immunofluorescence showed that the fluorescence expression of Cx43 in ICI group decreased significantly, but the position of CX43 did not change significantly. Compared with ICI group, the expression levels of LC3 II, p62, Cx43, ZO-1 and β-Catenin significantly increased. Conclusions The down-regulation of E R a leads to damage of TM4 cell junction function, which may be related to the activation of autophagy.
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OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the protective effects of total saponins from Panax japonicus (TSPJ) against high-fat dietinduced testicular Sertoli cell junction damage in mice.@*METHODS@#Forty male C57BL/6J mice were randomized into normal diet group, high-fat diet group, and low-dose (25 mg/kg) and high-dose (75 mg/kg) TSPJ treatment groups (n=10). The mice in the normal diet group were fed a normal diet, while the mice in the other groups were fed a high-fat diet. After TSPJ treatment via intragastric administration for 5 months, the testes and epididymis of the mice were collected for measurement of weight, testicular and epididymal indices and sperm parameters. HE staining was used for histological evaluation of the testicular tissues and measurement of seminiferous tubule diameter and seminiferous epithelium height. The expression levels of ZO-1, occludin, claudin11, N-cadherin, E-cadherin and β-catenin in Sertoli cells were detected with Western blot, and the localization and expression levels of ZO-1 and β-catenin in the testicular tissues were detected with immunofluorescence assay. The protein expressions of LC3B, p-AKT and p-mTOR in testicular Sertoli cells were detected using double immunofluorescence assay.@*RESULTS@#Treatment with TSPJ significantly improved high-fat diet-induced testicular dysfunction by reducing body weight (P < 0.001), increasing testicular and epididymal indices (P < 0.05), and improving sperm concentration and sperm viability (P < 0.05). TSPJ ameliorated testicular pathologies and increased seminiferous epithelium height of the mice with high-fat diet feeding (P < 0.05) without affecting the seminiferous tubule diameter. TSPJ significantly increased the expression levels of ZO-1, occludin, N-cadherin, E-cadherin and β-catenin (P < 0.05) but did not affect claudin11 expression in the testicular tissues. Immunofluorescence assay showed that TSPJ significantly increased ZO-1 and β-catenin expression in the testicular tissues (P < 0.001), downregulated LC3B expression and upregulated p-AKT and p-mTOR expressions in testicular Sertoli cells.@*CONCLUSION@#TSPJ alleviates high-fat diet-induced damages of testicular Sertoli cell junctions and spermatogenesis possibly by activating the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and inhibiting autophagy of testicular Sertoli cells.
الموضوعات
Male , Animals , Mice , Mice, Inbred C57BL , Testis , Sertoli Cells , beta Catenin , Diet, High-Fat , Occludin , Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt , Seeds , Cadherins , Intercellular Junctionsالملخص
Abstract BACKGROUND: Because normal male sexual differentiation is more complex than normal female sexual differentiation, there are more cases of disorders of sex development (DSDs) with 46,XY karyotype that have unclear etiology. However, Leydig and Sertoli cell markers are rarely used in distinguishing such individuals. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the function of Leydig and Sertoli cells in individuals with genital ambiguity, 46,XY karyotype, palpable gonads and normal testosterone secretion. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Case-control study with 77 patients, including eight with partial androgen insensitivity syndrome, eight with 5α-reductase deficiency type 2 (5ARD2) and 19 with idiopathic 46,XY DSD, and 42 healthy controls, from the Interdisciplinary Study Group for Sex Determination and Differentiation (GIEDDS), at the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil. METHODS: Baseline levels of gonadotropins, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), inhibin B, insulin-like 3 (INSL3), testosterone and dihydrotestosterone in cases, and AMH, inhibin B, and INSL3 levels in controls, were assessed. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in age between cases and controls (P = 0.595). AMH and inhibin B levels were significantly lower in cases than in controls (P = 0.031 and P < 0.001, respectively). INSL3 levels were significantly higher in cases than in controls (P = 0.003). Inhibin B levels were lower in 5ARD2 patients (P = 0.045) and idiopathic patients (P = 0.001), in separate comparisons with the controls. CONCLUSION: According to our findings, we can speculate that inhibin B levels may be used to differentiate among DSD cases.
الموضوعات
Humans , Male , Female , Sertoli Cells/metabolism , Disorders of Sex Development , Testosterone/metabolism , Case-Control Studies , Karyotype , Gonads/metabolismالملخص
ObjectiveTo systematically review the intervention effect of Chinese medicine on the structure and function of testicular Sertoli cells in animal models of impaired spermatogenesis. MethodThe databases, such as China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI),VIP,Wanfang Data,EMbase,and Pubmed,were searched for experimental studies on the effect of Chinese medicine on the structure and function of testicular Sertoli cells in animal models with impaired spermatogenesis. The included studies were evaluated for risks of bias,and the outcome indicators were analyzed with RevMan and Stata software. ResultThirty studies were included,involving 37 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). As indicated by the Meta-analysis results, compared with the model group,Chinese medicine increased sperm density(SMD=2.42,95% confidence interval(CI)[1.47,3.37],P<0.000 01), promoted sperm motility(SMD=2.35,95%CI [1.70, 2.99],P<0.000 01), up-regulated the protein and mRNA levels of Vimentin (related to Sertoli cell cytoskeleton), elevated the levels of Occludin and Claudin-11 (related to tight junction of blood-testis barrier), boosted the levels of β-catenin and N-cadherin (related to adherens junction of blood-testis barrier), raised the level of connexin 43 (Cx43, related to gap junction of blood-testis barrier), improved the function of Sertoli cells, increased the serum content of Inhibin B (INHB), and up-regulated the levels of testicular follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), INHB mRNA, androgen-binding protein (ABP) mRNA, transferrin(TF),stem cell factor(SCF),SCF mRNA,glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF),GDNF mRNA,bone morphogenetic protein 4(BMP4),and BMP4 mRNA (P<0.05). ConclusionChinese medicine can effectively increase sperm density and motility of animal models of impaired spermatogenesis,and improve the structure and function of testicular Sertoli cells. However,affected by the quality of the included studies,the above conclusion needs to be further verified by relevant high-quality studies.
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Resumen Actualmente el tumor de células de Sertoli de tipo esclerosante, se encuentra clasificado como una variante de los tumores de células de Sertoli NOS (sin otra especificación), ya que ambos tumores presentan mutación del gen CTNNB1, codificador de b-catenina, la relevancia de su identificación radica en que esta variante se correlaciona, aunque en un bajo porcentaje, con potencial metastásico.Masculino de 56 años de edad, con cuadro de 7 años de evolución, caracterizado por presentar dolor testicular izquierdo con leve aumento de consistencia en polo inferior de testículo izquierdo, se realiza ecografía testicular, en la que se evidencia lesión heterogénea de 2 cm de diámetro máximo, dependiente de polo inferior de testículo izquierdo; se realiza orquiectomía radical izquierda, con reporte histopatológico: tumor de células de sertoli testicular. Cursando posteriormente con evolución satisfactoria, con cicatrización completa de la herida, y actualmente en vigilancia, sin necesidad de tratamiento adyuvante. Conociendo su relativa rareza y los pocos casos notificados, los tumores testiculares de células de Sertoli siguen siendo un misterio relativo y en la actualidad, continúan siendo un desafío para su diagnóstico. Con este caso, pretendemos apoyar en el conocimiento y fomentar la investigación adicional de estos tumores, con el objetivo de optimizar el diagnóstico, dar un adecuado tratamiento.
Abstract Currently, the sclerosing-type Sertoli cell tumor is classified as a variant of the NOS Sertoli cell tumors (without other specification), because it has been shown that both tumors present mutation in the CTNNB1 gene, which encodes the b-catenin (19), the relevance of its identification lies in the fact that this variant is correlated, although in a low percentage, with metastatic potential. A 56-year-old male, with a 7-year evolution, characterized by presenting left testicular pain with a slight increase in consistency in the lower pole of the left testicle, a testicular ultrasound was performed, which revealed a heterogeneous lesion of 2 cm in diameter maximum, dependent on the lower pole of the left testis; Left radical orchiectomy was performed, with histopathological report: testicular sertoli cell tumor. Later, with satisfactory evolution, with complete wound healing, and currently under surveillance, without the need for adjuvant treatment.Knowing their relative rarity and the few reported cases, testicular Sertoli cell tumors remain a relative mystery and today, they continue to be a challenge for diagnosis. With this case, we intend to support the knowledge and promote additional research on these tumors, with the aim of optimizing the diagnosis and providing adequate treatment.
الملخص
Pathogenesis of Bothrops envenomations is complex and despite numerous studies on the effects of this snake venom on various biological systems, relatively little is known about such effects on the male reproductive system. In the present study, the toxicological outcomes of the low molecular weight fraction (LMWF) of B. jararaca snake venom - containing a range of bioactive peptides - were investigated on the dynamics and structure of the seminiferous epithelium and 15P-1 Sertoli cells viability. Methods: LMWF (5 µg/dose per testis) venom was administered in male Swiss mice by intratesticular (i.t.) injection. Seven days after this procedure, the testes were collected for morphological and morphometric evaluation, distribution of claudin-1 in the seminiferous epithelium by immunohistochemical analyses of testes, and the nitric oxide (NO) levels were evaluated in the total extract of the testis protein. In addition, the toxicological effects of LMWF and crude venom (CV) were analyzed on the 15P-1 Sertoli cell culture. Results: LMWF induced changes in the structure and function of the seminiferous epithelium without altering claudin-1 distribution. LMWF effects were characterized especially by lost cells in the adluminal compartment of epithelium (spermatocytes in pachytene, preleptotene spermatocytes, zygotene spermatocytes, and round spermatid) and different stages of the seminiferous epithelium cycle. LMWF also increased the NO levels in the total extract of the testis protein and was not cytotoxic in concentrations and time tested in the present study. However, CV showed cytotoxicity at 10 μg/mL from 6 to 48 h of treatment. Conclusions: The major finding of the present study was that the LMWF inhibited spermatozoa production; principally in the spermiogenesis stage without altering claudin-1 distribution in the basal compartment. Moreover, NO increased by LMWF induce open of complexes junctions and release the germ cells of the adluminal compartment to the seminiferous tubule.(AU)
الموضوعات
Animals , Male , Peptides , Seminiferous Epithelium , Snake Venoms , Spermatogenesis , Bothrops , Biological Productsالملخص
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of total flavonoids of Epimedium (TFE) on the decline of secretion function of senile testis-supporting cells (Sertoli cells), and to explore their molecular mechanism from inositol-requiring enzyme 1α(IRE1α)/X-box- binding protein 1(XBP1) signaling pathway. METHODS Thirty-six SPF 18-month-old SD male rats were randomly divided into natural aging group, low and high dose TFE groups, with 12 rats in each group. Another ten 2-month-old rats were used as a youth control group. TFE was ig given once a day, and the ig administration was continued every five days after a two-day interval, and the administration lasted for 4 months. Then, the testicular index was calculated. The testicular histomorphology was observed by HE staining; while quantitative-PCR (qPCR) and Western blotting were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression levels of glial cell derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) and stem cell factor (SCF), and Western blotting protein expression levels of p-IRE1α and XBP1 in testes. The number of Sertoli cells in the testis and the localization of p-IRE1α in the testis were detected by immunofluorescence. RESULTS Compared with the young control group, the testicular index decreased significantly in the natural aging group (P<0.01), but was significantly up-regulated after TFE 40 m g · k g- 1 (P<0.05). The results of HE showed that the morphological structure of the testicular seminiferous tubules in the natural aging group were disorderly, and some spermatogenic cells were shed. The TFE group could improve the morphological structure of the seminiferous tubules of the testis. qPCR and Western blotting results showed that compared with the young control group, the mRNA and protein expression levels of GDNF, BMP4 and SCF in Sertoli cells in the natural aging group were significantly down-regulated (P< 0.01). However, the expression of secretory factors in TFE group was significantly up-regulated (P< 0.05, P<0.01). Western blotting results showed that compared with the young control group, the expression of p-IRE1α and XBP1 protein in the testis of the natural aging group was significantly down-regulated (P<0.01), but the expression of p-IRE1α and XBP1 protein in the TFE group was significantly up-regulated (P<0.01). The results of immunofluorescence also showed that there was no significant difference in the number of Sertoli cells between the natural aging group and the TFE group compared with the young control group, while the expression of p-IRE1α was localized both in cytoplasm of Sertoli cells and spermatogenic cells. CONCLUSION TFE can significantly improve the decline of secretion function of testicular Sertoli cells induced by aging, and the mechanism may be related to the regulation of IRE1α/XBP1 signaling pathway.
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OBJECTIVE@#To assess the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on expression of cytoskeletal proteins from Sertoli cells (SCs) and spermatogenesis in rats with oligozoospermia of insufficiency of Shen (Kidney) essence syndrome (OIKES).@*METHODS@#Twenty healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to four groups using a random number table: control, tripterygium glycosides (TG) treatment, sham and EA groups (n=5 in each group). A rat model of OIKES was established by oral gavage with TG. The EA group was treated with TG and received EA at Shenshu (BL 23) and Zusanli (ST 36) acupoints for 20 min, once daily for 30 days, while the sham group received EA at identical acupoints with skin penetration without stimulation. After 30 days, the final body weight and coefficients for the testis and epididymis were calculated and sperm parameters were measured. Immunohistochemical analyses were performed to detect expression of vimentin and α-tubulin in SCs and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunoreactivity in germ cells. Apoptosis in germ cells was quantified by the transferase biotin-dUTP nick end labeling assay.@*RESULTS@#Compared with the control group, the final body weight and testis/epididymis coefficients of rats in the TG-treated group were not significantly different, but the sperm count and motility were lower (P<0.05). Expressions of vimentin and α-tubulin were also significantly weaker (P<0.01). The PCNA immunoreactivity of germ cells was decreased (P=0.059), whereas the apoptotic index of germ cells was increased significantly (P<0.01). In contrast, EA at BL 23 and ST 36 acupoints significantly improved the final body weight as well as the sperm count, concentration and motility (P<0.01 or P<0.05). EA increased expression of vimentin and α-tubulin in SCs markedly, and significantly enhanced PCNA immunoreactivity with decreased apoptosis in germ cells (P<0.01 or P<0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#EA at BL 23 and ST 36 acupoints has protective effects on spermatogenesis in rats with OIKES. This effect seems to be achieved by attenuating TG-induced disruption of cytoskeletal protein in SCs.
الملخص
During spermatogenesis, developing germ cells that lack the cellular ultrastructures of filopodia and lamellipodia generally found in migrating cells, such as macrophages and fibroblasts, rely on Sertoli cells to support their transport across the seminiferous epithelium. These include the transport of preleptotene spermatocytes across the blood-testis barrier (BTB), but also the transport of germ cells, in particular developing haploid spermatids, across the seminiferous epithelium, that is to and away from the tubule lumen, depending on the stages of the epithelial cycle. On the other hand, cell junctions at the Sertoli cell-cell and Sertoli-germ cell interface also undergo rapid remodeling, involving disassembly and reassembly of cell junctions, which, in turn, are supported by actin- and microtubule-based cytoskeletal remodeling. Interestingly, the underlying mechanism(s) and the involving biomolecule(s) that regulate or support cytoskeletal remodeling remain largely unknown. Herein, we used an in vitro model of primary Sertoli cell cultures that mimicked the Sertoli BTB in vivo overexpressed with the ribosomal protein S6 (rpS6, the downstream signaling protein of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 [mTORC1]) cloned into the mammalian expression vector pCI-neo, namely, quadruple phosphomimetic and constitutively active mutant of rpS6 (pCI-neo/p-rpS6-MT) versus pCI-neo/rpS6-WT (wild-type) and empty vector (pCI-neo/Ctrl) for studies. These findings provide compelling evidence that the mTORC1/rpS6 signal pathway exerted its effects to promote Sertoli cell BTB remodeling. This was mediated through changes in the organization of actin- and microtubule-based cytoskeletons, involving changes in the distribution and/or spatial expression of actin- and microtubule-regulatory proteins.
الموضوعات
Animals , Male , Rats , Actins/metabolism , Blood-Testis Barrier/metabolism , Cells, Cultured , Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 1/metabolism , Permeability , Ribosomal Protein S6/metabolism , Seminiferous Epithelium/metabolism , Sertoli Cells/metabolism , Signal Transduction/physiologyالملخص
During spermatogenesis, developing germ cells that lack the cellular ultrastructures of filopodia and lamellipodia generally found in migrating cells, such as macrophages and fibroblasts, rely on Sertoli cells to support their transport across the seminiferous epithelium. These include the transport of preleptotene spermatocytes across the blood-testis barrier (BTB), but also the transport of germ cells, in particular developing haploid spermatids, across the seminiferous epithelium, that is to and away from the tubule lumen, depending on the stages of the epithelial cycle. On the other hand, cell junctions at the Sertoli cell-cell and Sertoli-germ cell interface also undergo rapid remodeling, involving disassembly and reassembly of cell junctions, which, in turn, are supported by actin- and microtubule-based cytoskeletal remodeling. Interestingly, the underlying mechanism(s) and the involving biomolecule(s) that regulate or support cytoskeletal remodeling remain largely unknown. Herein, we used an in vitro model of primary Sertoli cell cultures that mimicked the Sertoli BTB in vivo overexpressed with the ribosomal protein S6 (rpS6, the downstream signaling protein of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 [mTORC1]) cloned into the mammalian expression vector pCI-neo, namely, quadruple phosphomimetic and constitutively active mutant of rpS6 (pCI-neo/p-rpS6-MT) versus pCI-neo/rpS6-WT (wild-type) and empty vector (pCI-neo/Ctrl) for studies. These findings provide compelling evidence that the mTORC1/rpS6 signal pathway exerted its effects to promote Sertoli cell BTB remodeling. This was mediated through changes in the organization of actin- and microtubule-based cytoskeletons, involving changes in the distribution and/or spatial expression of actin- and microtubule-regulatory proteins.
الملخص
BACKGROUND: Di-N-butyl-phthalate (DBP) is an endocrine disrupting substance. We investigated the adverse effect of DBP on testis of male rat and reveal its potential mechanism of MAPK signaling pathway involved this effect in vivo and in vitro. Gonadal hormone, sperm quality, morphological change and the activation status of JNK, ERK1/2 and p38 was determined in vivo. Primary Sertoli cell was established and cultivated with JNK, ERK1/2 inhibitors, then determine the cell viability, apoptosis and the expression of p-JNK, p-ERK1/2. Data in this study were presented as mean ± SD and determined by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Bonferroni's test. Difference was considered statistically significant at P < 0.05. RESULTS: In vivo experiment, DBP impaired the normal structure of testicular tissue, reduced testosterone levels in blood serum, decreased sperm count and increased sperm abnormality, p-ERK1/2 and p-JNK in rat testicular tissue increased in a dose-dependent manner. In vitro studies, DBP could decrease the viability of Sertoli cells and increase p-ERK1/2 and p-JNK. Cell apoptosis in SP600125 + DBP group was significantly lower than in DBP group (P < 0.05). p-JNK was not significantly decreased in SP600125 + DBP group, while p-ERK1/2 was significantly decreased in U0126 + DBP group. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that DBP can lead to testicular damage and the activation of ERK1/2 and JNK pathways, the JNK signaling pathway may be primarily associated with its effect.
الموضوعات
Animals , Male , Rats , Testis/injuries , Testis/metabolism , Signal Transduction/physiology , Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism , MAP Kinase Signaling System/physiology , JNK Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism , Dibutyl Phthalate/pharmacology , Testis/drug effects , Rats, Sprague-Dawley , Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/physiology , JNK Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/physiologyالملخص
At present, there is no reliable in vitro assembled prepubertal testis-like biomimetic organ culture system designed to assess the functional effects of human gonadotropins on Sertoli and Leydig cells. Spermatogenesis is regulated by endocrine, paracrine, and juxtacrine factors (testicular cross-talk), mainly orchestrated by gonadotropins such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) that play a pivotal role by stimulating Leydig and Sertoli cells, respectively. The aim of our study was to set up an in vitro prepubertal porcine bioengineered construct as a new model for experimental studies on reassembled Sertoli and Leydig cells. We have evaluated Sertoli and Leydig cells obtained from 15- to 20-day-old neonatal pig testes in terms of purity and function. Subsequently, purified Sertoli and enriched Leydig cells were subjected to coincubation to obtain an in vitro prepubertal porcine testis-like culture system. We performed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), inhibin B, and testosterone secretion in the medium, and Real-Time PCR analysis of AMH, inhibin B, FSH-r, aromatase, LHr, and 3β-HSD mRNA expression levels. This in vitro testis-like system was highly responsive to the effects of human gonadotropins and testosterone. AMH mRNA expression and secretion declined, and inhibin-B increased, while FSH-receptor expression was downregulated upon FSH/LH exposure/treatment. Finally, the production of testosterone was increased selectively upon LH treatment. In summary, our proposed model could help to better determine the action of human gonadotropins on Sertoli and Leydig cells. The potential usefulness of the system for shedding light into male infertility-related issues is evident.
الموضوعات
Animals , Male , 3-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases/metabolism , Animals, Newborn , Anti-Mullerian Hormone/metabolism , Aromatase/metabolism , Cell Culture Techniques , Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay , Follicle Stimulating Hormone/pharmacology , Hormones/pharmacology , In Vitro Techniques , Inhibins/metabolism , Leydig Cells/metabolism , Luteinizing Hormone/pharmacology , Models, Biological , Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction , Receptors, FSH/metabolism , Receptors, LH/metabolism , Sertoli Cells/metabolism , Swine , Testis/metabolism , Testosterone/metabolismالملخص
At present, there is no reliable in vitro assembled prepubertal testis.like biomimetic organ culture system designed to assess the functional effects of human gonadotropins on Sertoli and Leydig cells. Spermatogenesis is regulated by endocrine, paracrine, and juxtacrine factors (testicular cross-talk), mainly orchestrated by gonadotropins such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) that play a pivotal role by stimulating Leydig and Sertoli cells, respectively. The aim of our study was to set up an in vitro prepubertal porcine bioengineered construct as a new model for experimental studies on reassembled Sertoli and Leydig cells. We have evaluated Sertoli and Leydig cells obtained from 15- to 20-day-old neonatal pig testes in terms of purity and function. Subsequently, purified Sertoli and enriched Leydig cells were subjected to coincubation to obtain an in vitro prepubertal porcine testis-like culture system. We performed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), inhibin B, and testosterone secretion in the medium, and Real-Time PCR analysis of AMH, inhibin B, FSH-r, aromatase, LHr, and 3β-HSD mRNA expression levels. This in vitro testis-like system was highly responsive to the effects of human gonadotropins and testosterone. AMH mRNA expression and secretion declined, and inhibin-B increased, while FSH-receptor expression was downregulated upon FSH/LH exposure/treatment. Finally, the production of testosterone was increased selectively upon LH treatment. In summary, our proposed model could help to better determine the action of human gonadotropins on Sertoli and Leydig cells. The potential usefulness of the system for shedding light into male infertility-related issues is evident.
الملخص
Flaxseed is considered a functional food with several health benefits. However, because of its high phytoestrogen content, flaxseed influences hormone metabolism and affects the gonadal biomorphology. In this study, computerized histomorphometry was used to evaluate seminiferous and epididymal tubules, considering the different regions of the epididymis (head, body and tail) of rats subjected to a prolonged diet of flaxseed. Young adult male Wistar rats (n=20) were divided into 2 groups during their lactation period: Control Group (CG), fed casein-based meals and Flaxseed Group (FG), fed a 25% flaxseed meal. After 250 days of continuous ingestion, the animals were euthanized and a blood sample was collected. The testicles and epididymis were removed and fixed in buffered formalin solution. The samples were subjected to routine histological paraffin techniques and stained with hematoxilin and eosin. Immunostaining was performed using an antivimentin antibody for Sertoli cell identification. For morphometry, images of the slides were scanned and analyzed using Image J to determine the epithelial height, tubular and luminal diameter and tubular and luminal area. In the hormonal evaluation, FG had a higher serum concentration of estrogen (P=0.001), but no change was observed in the concentration of testosterone. The morphometric assay of seminiferous tubules and epididymal regions revealed no significant differences between the analyzed groups. Similarly, Sertoli cell quantification showed no significant differences in the FG (P=0.98). These results revealed that the continuous and prolonged intake of 25% flaxseed meals from gestation to 250 days of age, even with a significant increase in serum levels of estradiol, does not exert adverse effects on the testicular and epididymal structure or on the cells participating in the spermatogenesis of rats.(AU)
A semente de linhaça é considerada um alimento funcional com vários efeitos benéficos à saúde. Entretanto, devido ao seu elevado teor de fitoestrógenos, esta semente pode influenciar no metabolismo hormonal e interferir na biomorfologia gonadal. Neste estudo, utilizamos a histomorfometria computadorizada para avaliar os túbulos seminíferos e epididimários, considerando as diferentes regiões do epidídimo (cabeça, corpo e cauda) de ratos submetidos a uma dieta prolongada de semente de linhaça. Foram utilizados ratos Wistar machos adultos jovens (n=20) divididos em 2 grupos, durante o período de lactação: Grupo Controle (GC) a base de caseína e Grupo Linhaça (GL) alimentados com 25% de semente de linhaça. Ao final de 250 dias de ingestão contínua, os animais foram sacrificados e amostra de sangue foi coletada. Os testículos e epidídimos foram retirados e fixados em formol tamponado. As amostras foram submetidas ao processamento histológico de rotina para parafina e coradas em hematoxilina e eosina. Foi feita a imunomarcação com anticorpo antivimentina para identificação das células de Sertoli. Para morfometria, as imagens das lâminas foram digitalizadas e analisadas pelo software ImageJ para obtenção dos dados de altura epitelial, diâmetro e área tubular e luminal. Na avaliação hormonal o GL teve maior concentração de estrógeno sérico (p=0,001), mas nenhuma mudança na concentração de testosterona foi observada. Nos parâmetros morfométricos dos túbulos seminíferos e das regiões epididimárias, não houve diferenças significativas entre os grupos analisados. Da mesma forma, a quantificação das células de Sertoli não apresentaram diferenças significativas no GL (p=0,98). Estes resultados mostraram que o consumo contínuo e prolongado de 25% de semente de linhaça desde período gestacional até 250 dias de idade, mesmo com o aumento significativo nos níveis séricos de estradiol, não exerceram efeitos adversos sobre a estrutura testicular e epididimária, assim como nas células participantes da espermatogênese em ratos.(AU)
الموضوعات
Animals , Male , Rats , Seeds , Testis/anatomy & histology , Rats, Wistar/anatomy & histology , Flax/adverse effects , Epididymis/anatomy & histology , Seminiferous Tubules/anatomy & histology , Sertoli Cells , Vimentin , Histological Techniques/veterinary , Phytoestrogens/adverse effectsالملخص
Objective@#To explore the effects of BPA on the expression of N-cadherin, Vimentin and FSHR in rat Sertoli cells.@*Methods@#Primary Sertoli cells collected from prepuberty rats (18-21 d) were cultured for 48 h, and then they were treated with 0, 30, 50, 70 μmol/L BPA respectively for 24 h. The methods of MTT, real-time quantitative PCR and Western blotting were utilized to measure the cell ability of Sertoli cells, the mRNA and protein expression levels of N-cadherin, Vimentin and FSHR respectively.@*Results@#Compared with control, the cell abilities of Sertoli cells in 50 μmol/L BPA group and 70 μmol/L BPA group increased significantly (P<0.05) . The cell abilities of Sertoli cells decreased with the increases of exposure doses of BPA. Compared with control, the expression of N-cadherin mRNA only increased in 30 μmol/L BPA group (P<0.05) , the expression of Vimentin mRNA decreased significantly in all doses group of BPA (P<0.05) , the expression of FSHR mRNA increased in all doses group of BPA (P<0.05) . Compared with the control, the protein levels of N-cadherin increased significantly in 50 μmol/L BPA group (P<0.05) , the protein levels of Vimentin decreased significantly in all doses group of BPA (P<0.05) , the protein levels of FSHR decreased significantly in 50 μmol/L BPA group and 70 μmol/L BPA group (P<0.05) .@*Conclusion@#The mechanism of testicular toxicity from BPA might be the alterations of N-cadherin, Vimentin and FSHR by disturbing normal spermatogenesis.
الملخص
Resumen: la hormona antimülleriana, inicialmente denominada sustancia inhibitoria mülleriana, es una glicoproteína homodimérica de 12,5 kDa, que pertenece a la familia del factor de crecimiento transformante beta (TGF-ß) y desempeña un papel crucial en la diferenciación sexual masculina al favorecer la regresión de los conductos de Müller. Dado que su producción en el varón es principalmente por las células de Sertoli inmaduras, en las últimas décadas ha crecido su utilidad más allá de la evaluación de la función ovárica y tratamientos de fertilidad en las mujeres, lo que ha permitido evaluar en el varón la función testicular y los estados de hipogonadismo, trastornos de la diferenciación sexual, pubertad patológica, criptorquidia, entre otras condiciones clínicas revisadas en este manuscrito. Además, esta revisión describe el rol fisiológico de la hormona antimülleriana en los testículos prepuberales y las pruebas de laboratorio disponibles para su medición. (AU)
Abstract: The antimullerian hormone, initially referred as mullerian inhibitory substance, is a 12.5 kDa homodimeric glycoprotein, belonging to the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-ß) family that playing a crucial role in male sexual differentiation by favoring regression of the Mullerian ducts. Since their production in the male is mainly by the immature Sertoli cells, in the last decades its usefulness has growth beyond the evaluation of the ovarian function and female fertility treatments, which has allowed evaluating the testicular function in male and affections such as hypogonadism, disorders of sexual differentiation, pathological puberty, cryptorchidism and others clinical conditions reviewed in this manuscript. In addition, this review describes the physiological role of the antimüllerian hormone in the prepubertal testes and the laboratory tests available for its measurement. (AU)
الموضوعات
Humans , Sexual Vulnerabilityالملخص
With the objective to assess the effect of scrotal bipartition on spermatogenesis in sheep, the testes were used from 12 crossbred rams of sheep farms in the municipality of Patos, Paraíba, Brazil, distributed into two groups: GI with six rams with scrotal bipartition, and GII with six rams without scrotal bipartition. The testicular biometry was measured and the testes were collected, fixed in Bouin and fragments were processed to obtain histological slides. The spermatogenesis yield and the Sertoli cell efficiency was estimated by counting the cells of the spermatogenetic line at stage one of the seminiferous epithelium cycle and the Sertoli cells. The results were submitted to analysis of variance with the ASSISTAT v.7.6 program and the mean values were compared by the Student-Newman-Keuls test (SNK) at 5% significance. The testicular biometric parameters did not show statistical difference (p>0.05) between the groups. The meiotic, spermatogenetic and Sertoli cell efficiency were higher in bipartitioned rams (p<0.05), while the mitotic yield did not differ (p>0.05) between GI and GII. The results indicated that there is superiority in the spermatogenetic parameters of bi-partitioned rams, suggesting that these sheep present, as reported in goats, indication of better reproductive indices.
Com o objetivo de avaliar o efeito da bipartição escrotal sobre a espermatogênese em ovinos, foram utilizados os testículos de 12 ovinos sem raça definida oriundos de criadouros do município de Patos-PB, Brasil, distribuídos em dois grupos, GI de seis animais com bipartição escrotal e o GII de seis animais sem bipartição escrotal. Realizou-se a aferição da biometria testicular, em seguida, os testículos foram coletados, fixados em Bouin e fragmentos foram processados para obtenção de lâminas histológicas. Foi estimado o rendimento da espermatogênese e eficiência das células de Sertoli contando-se as células da linhagem espermatogênica no estádio I do Ciclo do Epitélio Seminífero, bem como as células de Sertoli. Os resultados foram submetidos à análise de variância pelo programa ASSISTAT v.7.6 e os valores médios foram comparados pelo teste Student-Newman-Keuls (SNK) a 5% de significância. Os parâmetros de biometria testicular não apresentaram diferença estatística (p>0,05) entre os grupos. Os rendimentos meiótico, espermatogênico e a eficiência das células de Sertoli mostraram-se superiores em animais bipartidos (p<0,05), enquanto o rendimento mitótico não diferiu (p>0,05) entre GI e GII. Os resultados indicaram existir superioridade nos parâmetros espermatogênicos de ovinos bipartidos, sugerindo que estes animais apresentam, assim como constatado em caprinos, indicativo de melhores índices reprodutivos.
الموضوعات
Animals , Male , Sertoli Cells/physiology , Scrotum/anatomy & histology , Scrotum/physiology , Spermatogenesis/physiology , Sheep/physiology , Biometry , Testis/physiologyالملخص
Descending of the testes is an important process for spermatogenesis and cryptorchidism is one of the most relevant genital defects in dogs. In a previous study, we observed abnormal morphology and proliferation of Sertoli cells in a cryptorchid testis. In the present study, we investigated the expression of estrogen and progesterone receptors in the normal and cryptorchid testis of a dog. Elective orchidectomy was performed on the dog's abdominal right testis (undescended, cryptorchid) and scrotal left testis (descended, normal). In the normal testis, estrogen receptor α immunoreactivity was detected in Leydig cells alone, while estrogen receptor α immunoreactivity in the cryptorchid testis was significantly prominent in the Sertoli cells as well. In addition, progesterone receptor immunoreactivity in the control testis was detected in the spermatids, but was not detected in the cryptorchid testis. This result suggests that unilateral cryptorchidism causes increases of estrogen receptor α expression in Sertoli cells.