Sex-determining region Y box-containing genes: regulators and biomarkers in gynecological cancers

Sex-determining region Y box-containing genes are transcription factors with roles in multiple biological processes, including cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis.Sex-determining region Y box-containing genes have also been shown to act as regulators and biomarkers in the progression of many different cancers, including gynecological cancers such as ovarian, cervical,and endometrial cancer.In this review, we summarize the contrasting regulatory roles of Sex-determining region Y box-containing genes in different gynecological cancers, as promotors with high expression levels or as suppressors with low expression levels.Expression levels of Sex-determining region Y box-containing genes were also identified as biomarkers of clinical features, including International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage, histopathologic grade together with disease-free survival, and treatment efficacy in patients with gynecological cancers.An understanding of the mechanisms whereby Sex-determining region Y box-containing genes regulate the progression of gynecological cancers will aid in the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, while analysis of Sex-determining region Y box-containing expression levels will help to predict the prognosis of patients with gynecological cancers.

Sex-determining Region of Y Chromosome-related High-mobility-group Box 2 in Malignant Tumors： Current Opinions and Anticancer Therapy

Objective： To gain insight into the mechanism by which sex-determining region of Y chromosome （SRY）-related high-mobility-group box 2 （SOX2） involved in carcinogenesis and cancer stem cells （CSCs）. Data Sources： The data used in this review were mainly published in English from 2000 to present obtained from PubMed. The search terms were ＂SOX2,＂ ＂cancer,＂ ＂tumor＂ or ＂CSCs.＂ Study Selection： Articles studying the mitochondria-related pathologic mechanism and treatment of glaucoma were selected and reviewed. Results： SOX2, a transcription factor that is the key in maintaining pluripotent properties of stem cells, is a member of SRV-related high-mobility group domain proteins. SOX2 participates in many biological processes, such as modulation of cell proliferation, regulation of cell death signaling, cell apoptosis, and most importantly, tumor formation and development. Although SOX2 has been implicated in the biology of various tumors and CSCs, the findings are highly controversial, and information regarding the underlying mechanism remains limited. Moreover, the mechanism by which SOX2 involved in carcinogenesis and tumor progression is rather unclear yet. Conclusions： Here, we review the important biological functions of SOX2 in different tumors and CSCs, and the function of SOX2 signaling in the pathobiology ofneoplasia, such as Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, Hippo signaling pathway, Survivin signaling pathway, P13K/Akt signaling pathway, and so on. Targeting towards SOX2 may be an effective therapeutic strategy for cancer therapy.

Investigation on Azoospermia Factor (AZF) Microdeletion and Sex-determining Region Y (SRY) of the Y Chromosome in Male Infertility

Objective To determine the incidence of azoospermia faetor （AZF） microdeletions of Y chromosome in male infertility and to investigate the mechanism of sex-determining region Y （SRY） in sex differentiation. Methods The mierodeletion of AZF was detected by multiplex polymerase chain reaction （PCR） using Y-chromosome specific sequence tagged sites （STSs）, and SRY was analyzed by PCR and sequencing. Results There were 100 cases with AZF microdeletion and the ratio of AZF microdeletion was 6.8% over all 1 474 cases. The ratios of AZF microdeletion of azoospermia group and severe oligozoospermia group were 9.0% and 7.1%, respectively, which was significantly different from oligozoospermia group （P〈 0. 05）. There were 67 cases with 5 STSs mierodeletion of sY152, sY239, sY243, sY254 and sY255. There were 20 cases with long fragment deletion more than 10 STSs, and the patterns of AZF microdeletion in other 13 cases were rare. In all 9 patients with disorders of sex differentiation, there were 6patients with SRY-absent and AZF-absent. There was no mutation of SRY gene by sequencing in other 3 patients with SRY-positive. Conclusion Deletions in AZF region of Y chromosome are specific with diagnoses with spermatogenesis disorder. Deletions of sY152, sY239, sY243, sY254 and sY255 occur the most frequently. SRY was an important candidate gene of testis-determining factor （TDF） gene.

Primary Ovarian Small Cell Carcinoma of Pulmonary Type: Analysis of 6 Cases and Review of 31 Cases in the Literatures

Objective Primary ovarian small cell carcinoma of pulmonary type(SCCOPT)is a rare ovarian tumor with a poor prognosis.The platinum-based chemotherapy is the standard treatment.However,there is little research on the clinical characteristics of SCCOPT and the potential benefits of other treatments due to its low incidence.The study aims to investigate clinicopathological characteristics and treatment of SCCOPT.Methods We summarized the clinical,imaging,laboratorical and pathological characteristics of 37 SCCOPT cases,in which 6 cases were admitted to the Gansu Provincial Hospital from the year of 2008 to 2022 and 31 cases reported in 17 English and 3 Chinese literatures.Results The median age of the studied SCCOPT cases(n=37)was 56.00(range,22-80)years.Almost 80%of them had a stageⅢorⅣtumor.All patients underwent an operation and postoperative chemotherapy.Nevertheless,all cases had a poor prognosis,with a median overall survival time of 12 months.Immunohistochemical y,the SCCOPT of all patients showed positive expressions of epithelial markers,such as CD56 and sex-determining region of Y chromosome-related high-mobility-group box 2(SOX-2),and negative expressions of estrogen receptor,progesterone receptor,vimentin,Leu-7,and somatostatin receptor 2.The tumor of above 80%cases expressed synaptophysin.Only a few cases expressed neuron-specific enolase,chromogranin A,and thyroid transcription factor-1.Conclusions SCCOPT had a poor prognosis.SOX-2 could be a biomarker to be used to diagnose SCCOPT.

Male sex determination： insights into molecular mechanisms

Disorders of sex development often arise from anomalies in the molecular or cellular networks that guide the differentiation of the embryonic gonad into either a testis or an ovary, two functionally distinct organs. The activation of the Y-linked gene Sry （sex- determining region Y） and its downstream target Sox9 （Sry box-containing gene 9） triggers testis differentiation by stimulating the differentiation of Sertoli cells, which then direct testis morphogenesis. Once engaged, a genetic pathway promotes the testis development while actively suppressing genes involved in ovarian development. This review focuses on the events of testis determination and the struggle to maintain male fate in the face of antagonistic pressure from the underlying female programme.

M1-type microglia can induce astrocytes to deposit chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan after spinal cord injury

After spinal cord injury(SCI),astrocytes gradually migrate to and surround the lesion,depositing chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan-rich extracellular matrix and forming astrocytic scar,which limits the spread of inflammation but hinders axon regeneration.Meanwhile,microglia gradually accumulate at the lesion border to form microglial scar and can polarize to generate a pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype or an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype.However,the effect of microglia polarization on astrocytes is unclear.Here,we found that both microglia(CX3 CR1^(+))and astrocytes(GFAP^(+))gathered at the lesion border at 14 days post-injury(dpi).The microglia accumulated along the inner border of and in direct contact with the astrocytes.M1-type microglia(i NOS^(+)CX3 CR1^(+))were primarily observed at 3 and 7 dpi,while M2-type microglia(Arg1^(+)CX3 CR1^(+))were present at larger numbers at 7 and 14 dpi.Transforming growth factor-β1(TGFβ1)was highly expressed in M1 microglia in vitro,consistent with strong expression of TGFβ1 by microglia in vivo at 3 and 7 dpi,when they primarily exhibited an M1 phenotype.Furthermore,conditioned media from M1-type microglia induced astrocytes to secrete chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan in vitro.This effect was eliminated by knocking down sex-determining region Y-box 9(SOX9)in astrocytes and could not be reversed by treatment with TGFβ1.Taken together,our results suggest that microglia undergo M1 polarization and express high levels of TGFβ1 at 3 and 7 dpi,and that M1-type microglia induce astrocytes to deposit chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan via the TGFβ1/SOX9 pathway.The study was approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee of Anhui Medical University,China(approval No.LLSC20160052)on March 1,2016.

Analysis of SRY Gene in 8 Cases of Sex Abnormality

In order to investigate the relationship between sex dysplasia and sex-determining region Y (SRY) gene, 8 patients with sexual abnormality were analyzed by cytogenetic and molecular genetic methods. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) using PY3.4, X alpha satellite, and SRY probes was performed in each case to analyze the sex chromosome translocation and gene translocation. SRY gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and its mutation was detected by direct sequencing. The results showed that among 8 patients, 5 were positive for SRY and the remaining negative for SRY. In the patients positive for SRY genes, 3 presented testes and the left 2 streak ovaries. In the patients negative for SRY, only one case presented testes, while 2 ovaries. Direct sequencing demonstrated that all SRY genes were normal in the patients positive for SRY genes. FISH technique demonstrated that SRY genes translocated from Ypter to Xpter in 2 46,XX phenotypic males positive for SRY genes. It was concluded that SRY gene is strongly involved in male sex determination, while a sequence of other genes may be taken into account in sexual development.

Molecular characterization and expression profiles of four transformer-2 isoforms in the Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis

The transformer-2(tra-2) gene plays a key role in the regulatory hierarchy of sexual differentiation in somatic tissues and in the germline of Drosophila melanogaster.In this study,sequences and expression profiles of tra-2 in the Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis were characterized.Four tra-2 isoforms,designated as Estra-2a,Estra-2b,Estra-2c,and Estra-2d,were isolated.They all contained an RNA-recognition motif(RRM) and a linker region,which shared high similarity with other reported tra-2s.Sequence analysis revealed that Estra-2a,Estra-2b and Estra-2c are encoded by the same genomic locus and are generated by alternative splicing of the pre-mRNA.Compared with the other three isoforms,Estra-2d lacks the RS2 domain.Quantitative real-time PCR showed that all four isoforms were highly expressed in the fertilized egg,and in the 2-4 cell and blastula stages compared with larval stages(P<0.01),suggesting their maternal origin in early embryonic developmental stages.Notably,Estra-2a was highly expressed in male somatic tissues,while Estra-2c was significantly highly expressed in the ovary.These results suggest that Estra-2c is involved in sexual differentiation of the Chinese mitten crab.Our findings provide basic information for further functional studies of the tra-2 gene/protein in this species.

Genetic basis and biotechnological manipulation of sexual dimorphism and sex determination in fish

Aquaculture has made an enormous contribution to the world food production,especially to the sustainable supply of animal proteins.The utility of diverse reproduction strategies in fish,such as the exploiting use of unisexual gynogenesis,has created a typical case of fish genetic breeding.A number of fish species show substantial sexual dimorphism that is closely linked to multiple economic traits including growth rate and body size,and the efficient development of sex-linked genetic markers and sex control biotechnologies has provided significant approaches to increase the production and value for commercial purposes.Along with the rapid development of genomics and molecular genetic techniques,the genetic basis of sexual dimorphism has been gradually deciphered,and great progress has been made in the mechanisms of fish sex determination and identification of sex-determining genes.This review summarizes the progress to provide some directive and objective thinking for further research in this field.

Diverse and variable sex determination mechanisms in vertebrates

Sex is prevalent in nature and sex determination is one of the most fundamental biological processes, while the way of initiating female and male development exhibits remarkable diversity and variability across vertebrates. The knowledge on why and how sex determination mechanisms evolve unusual plasticity remains limited. Here, we summarize sex determination systems,master sex-determining genes and gene-regulatory networks among vertebrates. Recent research advancements on sex determination system transition are also introduced and discussed in some non-model animals with multiple sex determination mechanisms. This review will provide insights into the origin, transition and evolutionary adaption of different sex determination strategies in vertebrates, as well as clues for future perspectives in this field.

46 XX karyotype during male fertility evaluation; case series and literature review

Forty-six XX disorder of sex development is an uncommon medical condition observed at times during the evaluation of a man＇s fertility. The following is a case series and literature review of phenotypically normal men diagnosed with this karyotype. Our goal is to comprehend the patients＇ clinical presentation as well as their laboratory results aiming to explore options available for their management. A formal literature review through PubMed and MEDLINE databases was performed using ＂46 XX man＂ as a word search. A total of 55 patients, including those conveyed in this article were diagnosed with a 46 XX karyotype during their fertility evaluation. The patients＇ mean age _＋ s.d. was 34 ＋ 10 years and their mean height ＋ s.d. was 166 ＋ 6.5 cm. Overall, they presented with hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. Sexual dysfunction, reduced hair distribution, and gynecomastia were reported in 20% （4120）, 25.8% （8/31）, and 42% （13131） of the patients, respectively. The SRYgene was detected in 36 （83.7%） and was absent in the remaining seven （16.3%） patients. We found that a multidisciplinary approach to management is preferred in 46 XX patients. Screening for remnants of the mullerian ducts and for malignant transformation in dysgenetic gonads is imperative. Hypogonadism should be addressed, while fertility options are in vitro fertilization with donor sperm or adoption.

Strong variation in frequencies of male and female determiners between neighboring housefly populations

Sex-determination mechanisms evolve rapidly and vary between species.Occasionally,polymorphic systems are found,like in the housefly.Studying the dynamics and stability of such systems can provide a better understanding of the evolution of sex-determination systems.In the housefly,dominant male-determining loci(M)can lie not only on the Y chromosome(M^(Y)),but also on autosomes(M^(A))or the X chromosome(M^(X)).M enforces male development by inhibiting the female-determining gene transformer(tra).A mutant tra allele,tra^(D),is insensitive to M and is a dominant female determiner.M^(Y) prevails at high latitudes and polymorphic M loci together with tra^(D) at low latitudes.To get more insight into the stability and frequencies of these sex determiners with mutually exclusive dominance,we investigated 5 regional Spanish populations.We found strong variation among populations.Two populations with hemizygous M^(III) were found,2 contained homozygous M^(X) with additional hemizygous MI and M^(II) in 1 population.One population contained homozygous and hemizygous M^(X) with additionally hemizygous M^(II).All females in populations with homozygous M,had tra^(D),whereas no tra^(D) was found in populations without homozygous M.Our results indicate locally stable systems may either harbor a single hemizygous M and no tra^(D),corresponding to a male heterogametic system,or homozygous and/or multiple M and heterozygous tra^(D),reminiscent of a female heterogametic system.They support that M loci can accumulate in the presence of a dominant female determiner.Limited migration between populations may contribute to the stability of these systems.

SOX13 gene downregulation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with Klinefelter syndrome

Klinefelter syndrome(KS)is the most common sex chromosome disorder in men.It is characterized by germ cell loss and other variable clinical features,including autoimmunity.The sex-determining region of Y(SRY)-box 13(Sox13)gene is expressed in mouse spermatogonia.In addition,it has been identified as islet cell autoantigen 12(ICA12),which is involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases,including type 1 diabetes mellitus(DM)and primary biliary cirrhosis.SOX13 expression has never been investigated in patients with KS.In this age-matched,case-control study performed on ten patients with KS and ten controls,we found that SOX13 is significantly downregulated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with KS compared to controls.This finding might be consistent with the germ cell loss typical of patients with KS.However,the role of SOX13 in the pathogenesis of germ cell loss and humoral autoimmunity in patients with KS deserves to be further explored.

Emerging signals regulating liver tumor initiating cells

Tumor initiating cells(TICs)have been identified as cells that account for tumor heterogeneity.Recent studies demonstrated that genes controlling stem cell biology play key roles in maintaining TICs and promote their development into cancer.In this review,we summarize findings from human and animal studies that indicate the presence of TICs during liver cancer development.Markers identified for liver development and regeneration are used to identify liver cancer TICs.Expression of these markers is often upregulated in human hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)specimen.Using flow cytometry analysis and lineage tracing approaches,the presence of TICs is confirmed.Expression of TIC markers and the presence of TICs are also observed in genetically modified animals that target genes that are frequently altered in human HCC.The presence of these TICs represents a major challenge for therapeutic development.Elucidating signals that can regulate the fate,transformation and growth of liver TICs is an emerging need in liver research.Sex-determining region Y-box 9(SOX9)has recently become an important marker for liver TICs.Here,we summarize the role of SOX9 in TICs and its potential interaction with other signals.This includes the Notch-Numb signal that controls asymmetrical-symmetrical cell division,Wnt-b-catenin signal that maintains cell fate and transforming growth factor(TGF)-b signal that acts as upstream inducers.