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Protective role of autophagy in triptolide-induced apoptosis of TM3 Leydig cells

Xiaoyun Ye1, Liang Chen1

  • 1Medical Center of Reproductive and Genetics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China.

Journal of Translational Internal Medicine
|September 4, 2023
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Triptolide (TP) induces autophagy in TM3 Leydig cells, a process that initially protects against cell death. However, inhibiting autophagy exacerbates TP-induced apoptosis, revealing a complex role in testicular toxicity.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive toxicology
  • Cellular biology
  • Molecular pathways

Background:

  • Triptolide (TP) is known to impair testicular development and spermatogenesis.
  • The precise mechanism underlying TP's testicular side effects remains unclear.
  • Investigating TP's effects on Leydig cells is crucial for understanding its toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine if Triptolide (TP) induces autophagy in TM3 Leydig cells.
  • To elucidate the molecular pathway involved in TP-induced autophagy.
  • To assess the role of autophagy in Triptolide's effects on Leydig cells in vitro.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized TM3 Leydig cells for in vitro experiments.
  • Employed Western blot to analyze protein expression.
  • Conducted apoptosis assays and transmission electron microscopy to detect autophagosomes.

Main Results:

  • TP treatment decreased TM3 cell viability and increased apoptosis.
  • TP induced autophagosome formation, decreased P62, and increased LC3-II conversion, indicating autophagy induction.
  • Autophagy induction correlated with mTOR/P70S6K pathway activation.
  • Co-treatment with chloroquine (CQ) further inhibited cell viability.

Conclusions:

  • Triptolide (TP) induces autophagy in TM3 Leydig cells.
  • The mTOR/P70S6K pathway is involved in TP-induced autophagy.
  • Autophagy plays a protective role against TP-induced apoptosis in TM3 Leydig cells.
Keywords:
TM3autophagytriptolide

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