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mTORC1/rpS6 and mTORC2/PKC regulate spermatogenesis through Arp3-mediated actin microfilament organization in

Zhen-Fang Li1, Hong-Yu Qi1, Jia-Ming Wang1

  • 1The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.

Cell and Tissue Research
|June 16, 2023
PubMed

Insights

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway regulates spermatogenesis in crustaceans. This study shows mTORC1/rpS6 and mTORC2/PKC signaling influence sperm development and testis barrier integrity via actin organization.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Biology
  • Cell Signaling
  • Crustacean Research

Background:

  • The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is vital for cellular functions, including mammalian spermatogenesis.
  • Its role in crustacean reproduction is largely unexplored.
  • mTOR functions via two complexes: mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the function of mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling in spermatogenesis of the crab Eriocheir sinensis.
  • To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms, particularly concerning testis barrier integrity and actin organization.

Main Methods:

  • Cloning of downstream effectors: ribosomal protein S6 (rpS6) for mTORC1 and protein kinase C (PKC) for mTORC2.
  • Functional analysis using knockdown of rpS6/PKC and treatment with the mTOR inhibitor Torin1.
  • Assessment of spermatogenesis, testis barrier integrity, junction proteins, and filamentous actin (F-actin) organization.

Main Results:

  • Knockdown of rpS6/PKC or Torin1 treatment caused spermatogenesis defects, including germ cell loss and sperm retention.
  • Testis barrier integrity was disrupted, with altered expression of junction proteins.
  • These disruptions were linked to the disorganization of F-actin networks, mediated by actin-related protein 3 (Arp3).

Conclusions:

  • The mTORC1/rpS6 and mTORC2/PKC pathways are essential for spermatogenesis in E. sinensis.
  • These pathways regulate sperm development and testis barrier function through Arp3-mediated actin organization.
  • This study reveals novel insights into mTOR signaling in invertebrate reproduction.
Keywords:
Cell junctionsEriocheir sinensisMicrofilamentsSpermatogenesismTORC1/C2

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