Clinical relevance of oxidative stress in male factor infertility: an update

Herbicide Diuron as Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) through Histopathalogical Analysis in Gonads of Javanese Medaka (Oryzias javanicus, Bleeker 1854)

The expeditious augmentation of the agriculture industry is leaving a significant negative impact on aquatic ecosystems. However, the awareness of the impacts of herbicide Diuron toxicities on the non-targeted aquatic organism, especially fish is still lacking. Javanese medaka, a new model fish species were exposed under sublethal levels and the long-term effects on gonads were investigated via histological studies. A total of 210 sexually mature fish were exposed to Diuron at seven different concentrations; control, solvent control, 1, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 μg/L for 21 days. In this study, Diuron caused histopathological alterations in gonads (ovary and testis) of Javanese medaka (Oryzias javanicus) by decreasing in gonadal staging and maturity of germ cells in oogenesis and spermatogenesis of female and male Javanese medaka. The results obtained in this study had proven our hypothesis that long-term exposure of herbicide Diuron can cause alterations in the gonadal histology of the adults of Javanese medaka.

The effects of exposure to fluoxetine during lactation on testicular tissue and sperm parameters in mice offspring

Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor is commonly prescribed to treat maternal depression in pregnancy and lactation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of maternal exposure to fluoxetine via lactation on testicular tissue, sperm parameters including count, motility, viability, and normal morphology and testicular oxidative stress status in male mice offspring. Ten mice dams were divided into control and experimental groups. The control group received water and the experimental group received fluoxetine (20.00 mg kg^-1) by gavage daily from postnatal days of 0-21. Histology of testis, sperm parameters and oxidative stress in the testicular tissue were analyzed at 80 days after birth in their male offspring (n = 8). Significant reductions in the body and testes weights were observed in animals exposed to fluoxetine. Additionally, fluoxetine exposure significantly reduced all sperm parameters, tubular diameter and epithelial height of the seminiferous tubules as well as Leydig cells number. Significant increases in the testicular malondialdehyde levels and percentage of sperm with chromatin/DNA damage were observed in mice exposed to fluoxetine compared to control. These findings suggest that maternal exposure to fluoxetine during lactation in mice has a negative effect on the testicular tissue of their offspring and impairs the spermatogenesis process which in turn can induce infertility.

Pomegranate Seeds Extract Possesses a Protective Effect against Tramadol-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Experimental Rats

Tramadol is a centrally acting opioid analgesic that is extensively used. The chronic exposure to tramadol induces oxidative stress and toxicity especially for patients consuming it several times a day. Previously, we and others reported that tramadol induces testicular damage in rats. This study was conducted to investigate the possible protective effect of pomegranate seed extract (PgSE) against tramadol-induced testicular damage in adult and adolescent rats. Male rats were orally treated with tramadol or in a combination with PgSE for three weeks. Testes were then dissected and analyzed. Histological and ultrastructural examinations indicated that tramadol induced many structural changes in the testes of adult and adolescent rats including hemorrhage of blood vessels, intercellular spaces, interstitial vacuoles, exfoliation of germ cells in lumen, cell apoptosis, chromatin degeneration of elongated spermatids, and malformation of sperm axonemes. Interestingly, these abnormalities were not observed in tramadol/PgSE cotreated rats. The morphometric analysis revealed that tramadol disrupted collagen metabolism by elevating testicular levels of collagen fibers but that was protected in tramadol/PgSE cotreatment at both ages. In addition, DNA ploidy revealed that S phase of the cell cycle was diminished when adult and adolescent rats were treated with tramadol. However, the S phase had a normal cell population in the cotreated adult rats, but adolescent rats had a lower population than controls. Furthermore, the phytochemistry of PgSE revealed a high content of total polyphenols and total flavonoids within this extract; besides, the DPPH free radical scavenging activity was high. In conclusion, this study indicated that PgSE has a prophylactic effect against tramadol-induced testicular damage in both adult and adolescent ages, although the tramadol toxicity was higher in adolescent age to be completely protected. This prophylactic effect might be due to the high antioxidant compounds within the pomegranate seeds.

Reactive oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur species in human male fertility. A crossroad of cellular signaling and pathology

Infertility is a significant global health problem that currently affects one of six couples in reproductive age. The quality of male reproductive cells dramatically decreased over the last years and almost every aspect of modern life additionally worsen sperm functional parameters that consequently markedly increase male infertility. This clearly points out the importance of finding a new approach to treat male infertility. Redox signaling mediated by reactive oxygen, nitrogen and sulfur species (ROS, RNS, and RSS respectively), has appeared important for sperm reproductive function. Present review summarizes the current knowledge of ROS, RNS, and RSS in male reproductive biology and identifies potential targets for development of novel pharmacological and therapeutic approaches for male infertility by targeted therapeutic modulation of redox signaling.

Male Infertility: Shining a Light on Lipids and Lipid-Modulating Enzymes in the Male Germline

Despite the prevalence of male factor infertility, most cases are defined as idiopathic, thus limiting treatment options and driving increased rates of recourse to assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). Regrettably, our current armory of ARTs does not constitute therapeutic treatments for male infertility, thus highlighting an urgent need for novel intervention strategies. In our attempts to fill this void, we have come to appreciate that the production of pathological levels of oxygen radicals within the male germline are a defining etiology of many idiopathic infertility cases. Indeed, an imbalance of reactive oxygen species can precipitate a cascade of deleterious sequelae, beginning with the peroxidation of membrane lipids and culminating in cellular dysfunction and death. Here, we shine light on the importance of lipid homeostasis, and the impact of lipid stress in the demise of the male germ cell. We also seek to highlight the utility of emerging lipidomic technologies to enhance our understanding of the diverse roles that lipids play in sperm function, and to identify biomarkers capable of tracking infertility in patient cohorts. Such information should improve our fundamental understanding of the mechanistic causes of male infertility and find application in the development of efficacious treatment options.

Catalase as a Molecular Target for Male Infertility Diagnosis and Monitoring: An Overview

Catalase (CAT) stands out as one of the most efficient natural enzymes when catalysing the split of H₂O₂ into H₂O and O₂; H₂O₂ is one of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) involved in oxidative stress, a process closely related to aging and several health disorders or diseases like male infertility. Some studies have correlated H₂O₂ with male infertility and catalase with fertility restoration. However, the number of studies conducted with human beings remains scarce. Considering the use of CAT as a molecular target for biochemical analysis, this review summarises the current knowledge on how CAT influences human beings’ male fertility. Thus, three different databases were consulted—Scopus, PubMed and WOS—using single keywords and combinations thereof. A total of 40,823 articles were identified. Adopting inclusion and exclusion criteria, a final database of 197 articles served to conduct this work. It follows from this analysis that CAT could play an important role in male fertility and could become a good target for male infertility diagnosis and monitoring. However, that potential role of CAT as a tool in diagnosis must be confirmed by clinical trials. Finally, guidelines are suggested to reinforce the use of CAT in daily clinical tests for male fertility diagnosis and monitoring.

Impacts of feeding zinc-methionine or chromium-methionine on performance, antioxidant status and physiological responses to transportation stress on lambs

Context Road transportation of farm animals is an unavoidable activity in animal husbandry, which may lead to the stress. Metabolic modifiers, such as minerals, may be an effective strategy to improve the performance and immune system of animals. Aims The present study examined the effects of chromium-methionine (Cr-Met) and zinc-methionine (Zn-Met) supplementation on animal performance and response to transportation stress. Methods Eighteen lambs (18–20 weeks of age) were randomly assigned to the following three dietary treatments for 10 weeks: (1) basal diet (control, 0.021 g/kg Zn and 0.0001 g/kg Cr); (2) basal diet with addition of 10 Cr-Met mg/kg DM (containing 1 mg/kg Cr); and (3) basal diet with addition of 500 Zn-Met mg/kg DM (containing 50 mg/kg Zn). After a 6-week supplementation period, the lambs were transported by road for 3 h. Key results Mineral supplements did not affect final bodyweight, average daily gain or feed conversion ratio. The blood cortisol and aspartate aminotransferase concentrations were increased (P < 0.05) immediately after transportation (AT1) in all groups; however, they were lower in supplemented lambs than in the control (P < 0.05). Animals fed Cr-Met or Zn-Met diets had a higher albumin concentration at AT1 than did the control group (P < 0.05). Lambs on the Zn-Met diet showed a higher blood triiodothyronine and triiodothyronine to thyroxin ratio at AT1 and at 24 h after transportation (AT2) than did lambs receiving the control diet (P < 0.05). Lambs fed the Cr-Met diet had a lower blood malondialdehyde at AT1 and AT2 than did the control lambs (P < 0.05). Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was higher in the Zn-Met-supplemented group than in other groups (P < 0.05). Supplementation with dietary Zn-Met increased serum TAC concentration in the kidney tissue compared with the control (P < 0.05), but had no effect on superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities. The Cr-Met group showed also a lower malondialdehyde concentration (P < 0.05) and higher TAC, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities in the liver tissue (P < 0.05). Conclusions Dietary supplementation with 10 mg Cr-Met/kg (1 mg Cr) in comparison to 500 mg Zn-Met/kg (50 mg Zn) improved the stress response of lambs subjected to a short-time road transportation, whereas growth performance was not affected. Implications The administration of Cr-Met or Zn-Met to diet of lambs before transportation could reduce the adverse effects of road transportation stress.

Protective effects of orally administered thymol against titanium dioxide nanoparticle-induced testicular damage

In this study, we investigated the potential of thymol and its mode of action to protect against the titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticle-induced testicular damage. Twenty-four rats were randomly divided into four groups: control group, TiO2 (100 mg/kg BW/day) group, TiO2 + thymol (10 mg/kg BW/day) group, and TiO2 + thymol (30 mg/kg BW/day) group. With the exception of the control group, all animals received orally TiO2 nanoparticles for 60 days. In treatment groups, animals were given orally thymol 1 h before TiO2 nanoparticles. Epididymal sperm parameters, testicular histopathology, and spermatogenesis assessments were performed for evaluation of the TiO2 and thymol effects on the testis. Furthermore, antioxidative enzyme activities such as catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) levels and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) value were measured. Intragastric administration of TiO2 for 60 consecutive days caused a significant decrease in sperm quality, widespread histopathological alteration, and significantly induced oxidative stress as manifested by elevated MDA levels and a remarkable decline in antioxidant enzyme activities such as CAT, SOD, and GPx, and also FRAP and GSH levels in testis tissue. Nearly all of these alterations were significantly ameliorated in the groups that orally received thymol before TiO2 nanoparticles administration. The results of this study demonstrated that thymol improved the spermatogenesis defects induced by TiO2 nanoparticles in rats in a dose-dependent manner by protecting the testes against the testicular toxicity. Reduction in TiO2 nanoparticle-induced oxidative stress may have a major role in this protective effect.

Understanding the correlation between artificial insemination and offspring health outcomes

Although numerous articles have shown intracytoplasmic sperm injection and in vitro fertilization to be correlated with increased risk of disease, a few works have been published on the risks associated with artificial insemination. Meanwhile, questions about the possible causes underlying these correlations have remained in the background. The main objective of this work is not to review the risks associated with artificial insemination, but rather to describe how developmental processes may be affected by these techniques. Thus, we offer a theoretical framework for understanding the possible causes that underlie the correlation between low-complexity or milder techniques and offspring health outcomes.

Does myoinositol supplement improve sperm parameters and DNA integrity in patients with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia after the freezing-thawing process?

Sperm cryopreservation is a routine method in andrology and IVF laboratory. However, the sperm quality and its fertilizing capacity have been decreased during this process. The purpose of this experiment was to determine the role of myoinositol as a supplement in amelioration of total and progressive sperm motility, DNA fragmentation, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and lipid peroxidation after the freezing-thawing process on patients with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) syndrome. Semen samples obtained from 40 patients were divided into two aliquots and freezed with simple and 2 mg/mL myoinositol (MYO) supplemented freezing media. All samples were thawed and assessed after one month. Semen parameters were analyzed in terms of the motility by CASA, the level of total ROS by fluorimetry, TAC and MDA by colorimetric assay and finally DNA fragmentation by TUNEL assay. Our results clearly showed that MYO could improve total (37.46 vs. 12.91, p < 0.001) and progressive motility (21.92 vs. 6.49, p < 0.001) in experimental group compared to control group. A higher TAC level was observed in the MYO treated group in comparison to control group (1.11 vs. 0.91, p = 0.05). While MYO supplementation could not be effective on ROS level, it reduced DNA fragmentation of sperm after freeze-thaw process (p = 0.01). Therefore, MYO could be a good supplement for sperm freezing to reduce the detrimental effects of freezing process especially on DNA integrity, which is an important factor in the success of ART, in OAT suffered patients.

Correlation between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene polymorphism and oligoasthenospermia and the effects of folic acid supplementation on semen quality

Background

The present study investigated the correlation between 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism and oligoasthenospermia, as well as the effects of folic acid supplementation on semen quality.

Methods

The present study was a case control study. The PCR-chip assay was applied to analyze the distribution characteristics of the frequencies and genotypes of the MTHFR C677T allele in 167 Han Chinese patients with idiopathic male infertility (including 86 patients with oligospermia and 81 patients with asthenospermia) and in 78 males with normal semen parameters. Moreover, homocysteine (Hcy) levels were assessed for the different groups. Semen quality was measured following three months of folic acid supplementation for the oligospermia and asthenospermia groups.

Results

The cytosine-thymine (CT) genotype (50% vs. 39.5%) and the thymine-thymine (TT) genotype (51.2% vs. 7.7%) carriers in the oligospermia group exhibited significantly higher percentages compared with those of the control group. The percentage of the CT genotype carriers in the asthenospermia group was significantly higher compared with that of the control group (59.3% vs. 50%), while the frequency of the TT genotype was significantly increased (22.2% vs. 7.7%). Furthermore, serum Hcy levels in the oligospermia and asthenospermia groups were significantly higher compared with those of the control group. The data also demonstrated that sperm density increased significantly following three months of folic acid supplementation to patients with oligospermia or asthenospermia. In these patients, the highest increase was noted for the subjects carrying the TT genotype.

Conclusions

The MTHFR C677T mutation and the elevated Hcy levels are important risk factors for the development of oligoasthenospermia. Folic acid supplementation can significantly improve sperm density.

A chronic high-fat diet causes sperm head alterations in C57BL/6J mice

A chronic-positive energetic balance has been directly correlated with infertility in men, but the involved mechanisms remain unknown. Herein we investigated weather in a mouse model a chronic feeding with a diet supplemented with chicken fat affects sperm head morphology. To accomplish this, we fed mice for 16 weeks with either control food (low-fat diet, LFD) or control food supplemented with 22% chicken fat (high-fat diet, HFD). At the end of the feeding regimen, we measured: redox and inflammatory changes, cholesterol accumulation in testis and analyzed testicular morphological structure and ultra-structure and liver morphology. We found that the mice fed HFD resembled some features of the human metabolic syndrome, including systemic oxidative stress and inflammation, this group showed an increment in the following parameters; central adiposity (adiposity index: 1.07 ± 0.10 vs 2.26 ± 0.17), dyslipidemia (total cholesterol: 153.3 ± 2.6 vs 175.1 ± 8.08 mg/dL), insulin resistance (indirect Insulin resistance index, TG/HDL-c: 2.94 ± 0.33 vs 3.68 ± 0.15) and fatty liver. Increased cholesterol content measured by filipin was found in the testicles from HFD (fluorescence intensity increase to 50%), as well as an alteration of spermiogenesis. Most remarkably, a disorganized manchette-perinuclear ring complex and an altered morphology of the sperm head were observed in the spermatozoa of HFD-fed mice. These results add new information to our understanding about the mechanisms by which systemic oxidative stress and inflammation may influence sperm-head morphology and indirectly male fertility.

Novel evaluation of sevoflurane anesthetic exposure on the testicular germ cells of neonatal male mice

Background: Inhalatory anesthetics may impact spermatogenesis and sexual behavior. Comprehensive evaluation should be conducted to screen the effect of inhalatory anesthetics on the sperm and semen quality. This experimental research was organized to assess the impacts of sevoflurane during the period of neonatal spermatogenesis. Materials and methods: Twenty-one pregnant mice were obtained from the Pasteur Institute. After birth, neonates were categorized based on exposure to Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) of sevoflurane into three groups: experimental 1, experimental 2 and control. In order to investigate the testicular condition, a histological evaluation, including apoptosis study and immunohistochemistry, was performed. Not only apoptotic target genes such as Bax and Bcl-2, but also microRNA17-92, were investigated in testicular samples via real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR). Results: The outcomes of this work indicated the effects of sevoflurane on spermatogonial and germ cells in testicular tissue via stimulating apoptotic target genes and microRNA-17-92. The proportion of Bax/Bcl-2 in the experimental group was 8.318699 ± 1.093, and the proportion of Bax/Bcl-2 in the control group was 2.631 ± 0.079. There was a significant (p ≤ 0.002) difference among the control group and both experimental groups. Conclusion: Sequential sevoflurane exposure during the neonatal period may create testicular dysfunction due to the high level of apoptosis in spermatogonial cells. Also, sevoflurane may affect spermatogenesis by influencing other biomarkers, such as microRNA.

Assessment of reproductive function in male albino rat fed dietary meal supplemented with Mucuna pruriens seed powder

The occurrence of conflicting reports on the improvement of male reproductive function among humans fed diet containing the seed of Mucuna pruriens (MP) have raised a major concern in Nigeria. We assessed the effect of MP seed powder on the reproductive function in 32 adult male albino rats randomized to 4 groups of 8 rats each for 8 weeks. Group 1 (control) was given standard rat chow while groups 2, 3 and 4 were fed diets containing MP seed powder at 0.75 g, 1.5 g and 2.25 g respectively. Serum level of follicle stimulating hormone, testosterone, luteinizing hormone, oxidative stress markers in the testis, epididymal sperm quality and cytoarchitectural structure of the testis were monitored using standard methods. Significant improvements (p < 0.05) in the serum levels of all the hormones, testicular antioxidant defence, epididymal sperm quality without testicular degenerative changes were observed in group 2 compared to other groups. Oxidative stress, severe degenerative architectural lesions in the testis as well as significant reductions (p < 0.05) in epididymal sperm count, percentage motility and significant (p < 0.05) increased in abnormal sperm cells were observed in group 4. MP seed enhances reproductive function in male rats only at a dose level of 0.75g. A dose value higher than 0.75 g may be toxic to the male reproductive system.

Fenpropathrin induces testicular damage, apoptosis, and genomic DNA damage in adult rats: Protective role of camel milk

Fenpropathrin (FNP) is a member of the synthetic pyrethroids. Herein, the present study was conducted to investigate, for the first time, the potentially harmful effects of FNP on the reproductive system of male rats. In addition, the prophylactic or concurrent influence of camel milk (CM) was assessed. Adult male rats were divided into five groups; control, vehicle control (oil), CM (2ml/rat/day), FNP (15mg/kg bwt/60 days), CM/FNP (prophylaxis) and FNP /CM (co-treated) groups. Sperm morphology, count, serum testosterone (TES), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), testicular enzymes, and comet assay analysis were estimated. In addition, histopathology, the ultrastructure of testicular tissue and apoptosis were evaluated. Reduced body weight and gonadosomatic index were observed in the FNP exposed group. TES, LH, FSH were markedly declined following FNP treatment. SOD and TAC concentrations were reduced while PC and TBARS were significantly elevated in FNP group indicating oxidative stress. Furthermore, FNP induced DNA damage and apoptosis in the testis which was evidenced histopathologically and by electron microscope examination. CM significantly counteracted FNP reprotoxic effects, particularly at the prophylactic routine (CM/FNP) than the co-exposure (FNP/CM) one. Conclusively, these findings verified that CM could be a potential candidate therapy against FNP reprotoxic impacts.

Strategies to Minimize Various Stress-Related Freeze-Thaw Damages During Conventional Cryopreservation of Mammalian Spermatozoa

The aim of the article is to report a review on different sperm cryopreservation techniques, various stress-related freeze-thaw damages altering sperm structure and function during conventional cryopreservation, and strategies to minimize these stresses. Sperm cryopreservation has allowed indefinite storage and successful transportation of valuable germplasm from proven sites at distant locations, for genetic upgradation through implementation of reproductive techniques, such as artificial insemination. Different techniques for sperm cryopreservation have been proposed such as conventional freezing techniques, directional freezing, and sperm vitrification. Drawbacks related to conventional freezing methods, such as heterogeneous ice nucleation and repeated freeze-thaw cycles at the ice front that disrupts and kill sperm cells, led to the emergence of the directional freezing technique. Sperm vitrification is advantageous as there is no ice crystal-induced physical damages to sperm. However, sperm vitrification has less applicability as encouraging results are only reported in human, dog, and cat. In spite of several drawbacks, conventional freezing techniques are still most widely used for sperm cryopreservation. Spermatozoa experience stresses in the form of cold shock, osmotic stress, and mainly oxidative stress during conventional cryopreservation ultimately reduces the sperm viability and fertility. Several attempts have been made in the past to minimize all these stresses individually or in combination. Membrane fluidity was increased to prevent the cold shock and cryocapacitation-like changes by the addition of cholesterol to the membrane. Antifreeze proteins were added in semen extender to minimize freeze-thaw damages due to heterogeneous ice nucleation and ice recrystallization. Oxidative stress was reduced either by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) through enzymatic, nonenzymatic, plant-based antioxidants or reductants; or by minimizing the level of sources like the semen radiation exposure, leucocytes, and dead and defective spermatozoa, which lead to ROS production during the semen cryopreservation process. A novel approach of minimizing oxidative stress was to reduce the oxygen tension in sperm microenvironment that is, extender by partial deoxygenation process, as a number of literatures pointed out direct link of O₂ with ROS production. When compared with other strategies, partial deoxygenation of semen extender with N₂ gassing is found as a cost-effective, comparatively easy and a potential approach to large-scale frozen semen production.

Transcriptome analysis of the effect of pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium (PQQ·Na2) on reproductive performance in sows during gestation and lactation

Background

Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ), which is a water soluble, thermo-stable triglyceride-quinone, is widely distributed in nature and characterized as a mammalian vitamin-like redox cofactor. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium (PQQ·Na₂) on reproductive performance in sows.

Results

Dietary supplementation with PQQ·Na₂ significantly increased the total number of piglets born, the number of piglets born alive and the born alive litter weight. It also increased the antioxidant status in the placenta, plasma and milk. The concentration of NO was significantly increased in the plasma and placenta. RNA-seq analysis showed that 462 unigenes were differentially expressed between the control (Con) treatment and PQQ treatment groups. Among these unigenes, 199 were upregulated, while 263 unigenes were downregulated. The assigned functions of the unigenes covered a broad range of GO categories. Reproduction (27, 7.03%) and the reproduction process (27, 7.03%) were assigned to the biological process category. By matching DEGs to the KEGG database, we identified 29 pathways.

Conclusions

In conclusion, dietary supplementation with PQQ·Na₂ in gestating and lactating sows had positive effects on their reproductive performance.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s40104-019-0369-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

A Schematic Overview of the Current Status of Male Infertility Practice

The practice of male infertility has dramatically evolved over the past few decades. This has been achieved after the realization of the important contribution the male counterpart holds in the couple's infertility. It is also supported by a number of breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of this medical condition. Several tests to investigate sperm quality and function were introduced along with refinements and/or institution of novel surgical techniques that can correct several causes of infertility. This manuscript is aimed at highlighting the current state of male infertility practice in a robust, schematic method addressing a broader audience involved in the treatment of male infertility.

Effects of nano-selenium on mRNA expression of markers for spermatogonial stem cells in the testis of broiler breeder males

Fertility is one of the most important parameters in breeder farms and cockerels play an outstanding role in the fertility of eggs in broiler breeder farms. Todays, supplementation of chicken diet with additives such as organic selenium is used to increase fertility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different levels of nano-selenium (Nano-Se) on the expression of molecular markers of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in the testis of broiler breeder males. A total of 30 roosters of 40 weeks of age were randomly divided into five groups. Groups were as follows: 1) control (normal diet) group, 2) diet supplemented with 0.30 mg kg^-1 sodium selenite, 3) diet supplemented with 0.15 mg kg^-1 Nano-Se, 4) diet supplemented with 0.30 mg kg^-1 Nano-Se, and 5) diet supplemented with 0.60 mg kg^-1 Nano-Se. At the end of the experimental period (5^th week), birds were autopsied and samples from testis of all birds were collected. The testis samples were used to examine the β1-integrin (CD29), thy-1 (CD90) and NANOG mRNA expression by real-time PCR. The results showed that testis of the groups fed with the diets supplemented with 0.60 mg kg^-1 and 0.15 mg kg^-1 of Nano-Se had the highest and lowest mRNA expression of SSCs markers, respectively. In conclusion, the present study indicated that Nano-Se had advantages over sodium selenite. Diet supplemented with 0.60 mg kg^-1 of Nano-Se may contribute to optimal fertility via increasing the mRNA expression of SSCs markers of roosters’ testis and could be used to delay the reduction of fertility caused by aging in broiler breeder males.

Elevated reproductive toxicity effects of diclofenac after withdrawal: Investigation of the therapeutic role of melatonin

Although there are several reports on the toxic actions of sodium diclofenac (DF), there is dearth information on its effect on the male reproductive system. Therefore, the study investigated the effects of DF and melatonin in male rats. Twenty rats were used in this study, which lasted for 6 weeks. The control group (vehicle treated) received normal saline (0.1 ml/day, p.o.). In the experimental groups, DF was administered during the first (group 2) and last (group 3) three weeks of the study. However, in group 4, melatonin was administered for 3 weeks, after 3 weeks of treatment with DF. DF and melatonin were administered at 1 and 10 mg/kg b.w./day (p.o.) respectively. The results showed that unlike melatonin, DF had no effect on gonadotrophins; however, it caused significant decreases in GNRH and testosterone, but a significant increase in prolactin. Melatonin attenuated the pro-antioxidant and pro-inflammatory effects of DF, which caused significant decreases in SOD, TAC, CAT, but significant elevations in LDH, MDA, uric acid and CRP. Moreover, the hormone reversed the adverse effect of DF on sperm count, sperm motility and sperm morphology. There were slight evidence of the precipitation of imbalance in lipid metabolism by DF and the antidyslipidaemic action of melatonin. Compared to DF, DF recovery showed more adverse effects on prolactin, testosterone, LDH, MDA, UA, CRP, semen parameters (except sperm motility), TC, LDL-c, HDL-c and phospholipid. The histological results agreed with the biochemical assays. In conclusion, the reproductive toxicity effects of DF seem to escalate after withdrawal; however, these effects could be attenuated by treatment with melatonin.

Decrease of spermatozoa with an unbalanced chromosome content after cell sorting in men carrying a structural chromosomal abnormality

BACKGROUND

We showed that in men with a constitutional chromosomal abnormality, DNA fragmentation was significantly higher in chromosomally unbalanced spermatozoa than in spermatozoa with a normal or balanced chromosomal content. These results could be explained by a phenomenon already described in infertile men: abortive apoptosis.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether magnetic-activated cell separation could select spermatozoa with lower levels of DNA fragmentation and unbalanced chromosome content in men carrying a structural chromosomal abnormality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The spermatozoa of ten males with a chromosomal rearrangement were separated into two populations using magnetic-activated cell separation (annexin V (-) and annexin V (+) fractions), in order to study meiotic segregation by fluorescence in situ hybridization, the percentage of spermatozoa with an externalization of phosphatidylserine by annexin V staining and DNA fragmentation by TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling on the whole ejaculate and on selected spermatozoa in the same patient.

RESULTS

For all patients, the percentage of spermatozoa with externalization of phosphatidylserine decreased in the annexin V (-) fraction and increased in the annexin V (+) fraction as compared to the frozen-thawed semen sample. The rates of DNA fragmentation were statistically much lower in the annexin V (-) fraction when compared to the rate before magnetic-activated cell separation for all but one patient. Conversely, we observed a statistically significantly higher rate of DNA fragmentation in the annexin V (+) fraction for six patients. After magnetic-activated cell separation, there was a significant increase of normal/balanced spermatozoa in the fraction of annexin V (-) for all patients. Conversely, we observed a significant decrease in the fraction of annexin V (+) for seven patients.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Magnetic-activated cell separation is a promising tool for increasing the selection of healthy spermatozoa, with a decrease in the number of spermatozoa with externalization of phosphatidylserine, DNA fragmentation, and chromosome unbalance, for use in assisted reproductive technologies such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection for males with a chromosomal structural abnormality.

The in vitro effects of gibberellin on human sperm motility

Gibberellin, a plant growth regulator, is widely used to increase the shelf life and quality of fruits and vegetables. In this study, human semen samples were exposed to different concentrations of gibberellin, which reduced spermatozoa motility in vitro. Gibberellin exposure also increased levels of reactive oxygen species and the protein levels of apoptosis markers in human sperm. Gibberellin inhibited the activity of Na+/K+-adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) and Ca2+-ATPase, which maintain the stability of ions inside and outside the membranes of spermatozoa. Moreover, gibberellin exposure suppressed adenosine triphosphate production and reduced the protein levels of adenosine triphosphate synthases, which may have induced the protein expression of adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and its phosphorylated form. These results suggest that gibberellin reduces human sperm motility in vitro by increasing reactive oxygen species levels and reducing ATPase activity, which may upregulate AMPK and consequently reduce the fertilization potential of spermatozoa.

Antioxidant enzyme expression of mRNA and protein in the epididymis of finasteride-treated male rat offspring during postnatal development

INTRODUCTION

We verify whether finasteride had a transgenerational effect on the epididymal expression of antioxidant enzymes, and the correlation between these enzymes and blood androgen concentrations in male offspring (F1:Fin) of females fertilized by finasteride-treated male rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The expression of CAT, SOD1, GPX5, GR on the mRNA and protein levels was evaluated in the epididymis at postnatal day (PND) 7, 14, 21, 28 and 90. Levels of T and DHT were correlated with mRNA levels of enzymes by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

A change in the levels of transcripts was noted in F1:Fin rats: CAT decreased at PND 28 (p < 0.01) and increased at PND 90 (p < 0.01); SOD1 increased at PND 7 (p < 0.0001), 21 (p < 0.001), 90 (p < 0.0001) and decreased at 14 PND (p < 0.01); GPX5 increased at PND 14 and 21 (p < 0.0001); GR decreased at PND 21 and 28 (p < 0.0001). Altered immunolocalization of enzymes within the epididymal epithelium was observed. Negative correlations between GPX5 mRNA with androgens (T, p = 0.0002; DHT, p = 0.0009) were visible in the control rats, and positive correlation between DHT and CAT mRNA (p = 0.03), in opposite to F1:Fin group were was negative for both androgens (T, p = 0.044 and DHT, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Finasteride treatment of adult male rats may cause changes in antioxidant defense system in the epididymis of their offspring, leading to improper ROS concentrations that can affect post-testicular sperm maturation.

Oxidative stress and sperm function: A systematic review on evaluation and management

Objective: To review and present the most distinct concepts on the association of reactive oxygen species (ROS) with male reproduction.

Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to search PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane electronic databases for studies investigating the role of oxidative stress (OS) on sperm function.

Results: The literature search yielded 1857 studies, of which 1791 articles were excluded because of irrelevance of data, non-English language, non-human nature or because they were case reports or commentaries. All included studies were reviews (46), meta-analyses (one), original research studies (18) and guideline articles (one). The studies were published between 1984 and 2018. Under normal physiological conditions, ROS are vital for sperm maturation, hyperactivation, capacitation, acrosome reaction, as well as fertilisation. However, a number of endogenous and exogenous causes may induce supra-physiological levels of ROS resulting in lipid peroxidation, sperm DNA fragmentation and apoptosis, and consequently infertility. Several laboratory testing methods can be used in infertile men to diagnose OS. Treatment usually involves antioxidant supplementation and, when possible, elimination of the causative factor.

Conclusion: OS is an important cause of male factor infertility. Its assessment provides essential information that can guide treatment strategies aimed at improving the male’s reproductive potential.

Abbreviations: bp: base-pair; CAT: catalase; LPO: lipid peroxidation; MDA: malondialdehyde; MiOXSYS: Male Infertility Oxidative System; mtDNA: mitochondrial DNA; NAD(PH): nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate); NO: nitric oxide; 8-OHdG: 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine; ORP: oxidation–reduction potential; OS: oxidative stress; PKA: protein kinase A; PLA2: phospholipase A2; PRISMA: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses; PUFA: poly-unsaturated fatty acid; ROS: reactive oxygen species; SOD: superoxide dismutase; TAC: total antioxidant capacity; TBA: thiobarbituric acid

Effects of N-acetyl-cysteine supplementation on sperm quality, chromatin integrity and level of oxidative stress in infertile men

BACKGROUND

Infertile men have higher levels of semen reactive oxygen species (ROS) than fertile men. High levels of semen ROS can cause sperm dysfunction, sperm DNA damage and reduced male reproductive potential. This study investigated the effects of supplementation with N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) on the sperm quality, chromatin integrity and levels of oxidative stress in infertile men.

METHODS

The study was carried out in the unit of ACECR Infertility Research Center, Qom, Iran. The patients consisted of 50 infertile men with asthenoteratozoospermia who received NAC (600 mg/d) orally for 3 months, after which they were compared with pre-treatment status. Semen was analyzed according to WHO (2010), followed by the assessment of protamine content [chromomycin A3 (CMA3)] and DNA integrity [terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL)]. Oxidative stress markers, i.e. total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as hormonal profile (LH, FSH, Testosterone and Prolactin) were determined by ELISA kit.

RESULTS

After NAC treatment, patients' sperm count and motility increased significantly whereas abnormal morphology, DNA fragmentation and protamine deficiency showed significant decreases compared to pre-treatment levels (P < 0.05). Hormonal profile improvement was associated with lowered FSH and LH levels and increased amount of testosterone (P < 0.05). TAC significantly increased and MDA decreased with an inverse significant correlation between TAC and MDA (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

NAC oral supplementation may improve sperm parameters and oxidative/antioxidant status in infertile males.

The protective effect of vitamin C on phenylhydrazine-induced hemolytic anemia on sperm quality and in-vitro embryo development in mice

Background

Phenylhydrazine (PHZ) induced anemia and was shown to have harmful effects on the male reproductive system.

Objective

To investigate the protective effect of vitamin C (Vit C) on sperm parameters quality, in vitro fertilization potential and embryonic development in a mouse model of hemolytic anemia induced by PHZ.

Materials and Methods

Thirty-two NMRI adult male mice (n = 8/each) were randomly classified into four groups. Group I (control) received normal saline, Group II (PHZ) received 8 mg/100 gr body weight PHZ as initial dose, continued by 6 mg/100 gr intraperitoneally every 48 hr, Group III (Vit C) received Vit C (10 mg/kg, daily, intraperitoneally), and group IV (PHZ + Vit C) received PHZ and Vit C. After 35 days, sperm quality parameters, the percentage of sperm with DNA damage and in vitro fertilization outcomes up to blastocyst stage were evaluated.

Results

A significant (p < 0.001) reduction in all of the sperm parameters (count, motility, viability and normal morphology) were observed in group II (PHZ) compared with group I (control). In group IV (PHZ ± Vit C), these parameters and sperm DNA damage (p < 0.001) improved significantly when compared with PHZ-treated mice. Furthermore, PHZ caused a significant (p < 0.001) decrease in the fertilization rate and the percentage of pre-implantation embryos' (two cell embryo and blastocyst) formation in comparison to group I (control), and Vit C supplementation in mice of group IV improved significantly the fertilization rate (p = 0.002), but it could not improve the percentage of two cell embryos and blastocyst production.

Conclusion

The data from this study indicated that Vit C decreased the adverse effects of PHZ on the quality of sperm parameters and in vitro fertilization rate, but it is insufficient to restore the in-vitro embryonic development and fertility potential.

Two Case Reports of Varicocele Rupture during Sexual Intercourse and Review of the Literature

Varicocele is characterized by the dilatation of the veins of the spermatic cord. Its prevalence in general male population is 15% while in the infertile population the prevalence rises up to 25%. The varicocele is considered an etiological factor for male infertility. Although different pathophysiological patterns have been proposed, there is no consensus in the urological society to date. In most of the cases varicocele is asymptomatic but sometimes gives mild symptoms as dull pain at the scrotal region. A rare complication of this condition is the spontaneous or traumatic rupture and hematoma formation, either as spermatic cord hematoma or as scrotal hematoma. We are presenting two cases of varicocele rupture, presented with acute painful swelling of the left inguinal and scrotal region during sexual intercourse. Imaging studies revealed a scrotal hematoma in the first case and a spermatic cord hematoma in the second case, without signs of active bleeding. Both patients were treated conservatively and recovered uneventfully. Subsequently, we reviewed the literature in an effort to find the key points for the diagnosis and treatment of this condition.

Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles Protect Cyclophosphamide-induced Testicular Toxicity in Mice

Background:

Cyclophosphamide (CP), as a chemotherapy drug, causes severe damage in testicular tissue through producing free radicals. Cerium oxide nanoparticles (NC) exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effect of NC on CP-induced testicular damage in mice.

Methods:

In this experimental study, thirty-two male mice were divided into four groups (eight mice in each group). The control group was received intraperitoneally (IP) normal saline, NC group was received NC for three consecutive days (100 μg/kg, IP), CP group was received CP (200 mg/kg, IP), and the CP + NC group received NC, three consecutive days before receiving CP. After 2 days, testicles were assessed for biochemical, histomorphometrical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses.

Results:

CP administration caused statistically significant increases in sperm abnormality, malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl levels, reactive oxygen species, level and apoptosis, and decreases in sperm count, sperm viability, testosterone, glutathione activity, the mean thickness of the germinal epithelium, diameter of seminiferous tubules in mice. Degeneration, necrosis, arrest of spermatogenesis, congestion, and atrophy in testicular tissue confirmed the low Johnsen's Testicular score in CP group. Administration of NC significantly ameliorated the CP-induced adverse effects on testis compared with the CP group. In addition, pretreatment mice with NC significantly reduced caspase-3 immunoreactivity induced by CP in testis.

Conclusions:

This study showed that NC with scavenging free radicals and antiapoptotic properties enable to reduce the side effects of CP in the testicular tissue.

Relationship between cadmium content in semen and male infertility: a meta-analysis

Meta-analysis with high-quality studies can provide superior evidence. In this paper, we use meta-analysis to analyze the relationship between cadmium (Cd) content in semen and male infertility, and then objectively evaluate the effect of Cd on sperm quality. The objectives of this study were to update our understanding of infertility and to provide evidence to treat and prevent the infertility. We searched potentially relevant studies that were published from establishing database data to April 2018. Articles came from the databases of CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, PubMed, CMCI, and EMBASE. A total of 11 articles were included. We gathered the mean and variance of the infertility group and the control group to compare the Cd content in two groups. In total, the 11 studies include 1707 subjects, 1093 of which were in the infertility group and 614 of which were in the control group. We can get some information from this meta-analysis: SMD = 0.50 (95% Cl 0.39-0.61), Z = 8.92, P < 0.05; the funnel plot of the meta-analysis shows incomplete symmetry, which may have the publication bias. Therefore, the high content of Cd in semen is a causative factor of infertility. The Cd content in semen can be used as an indicator of sperm quality.

EFFECT OF ANTIOXIDANT SUPPLEMENTATION IN DIETS OF ROOSTERS DURING THE POST-PEAK PHASE ON REPRODUCTION AND PRODUCTION CHARACTERISTICS OF OFFSPRING

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effects of antioxidant supplementation in diets of breeding roosters during the post-peak phase on reproduction characteristics and muscle performance of offspring in two similar breeder houses from a local company. Treatments consisted of a control diet and a diet supplemented with antioxidants (8 ppm canthaxanthin + 40 ppm lycopene + 150 ppm vitamin C). During the 66th week of age, eggs were incubated, and offspring were housed. Dietary supplementation of the blend of antioxidant resulted in higher (p<0.05) weights of testicles, crests, dewlaps, dewlap thickness, and number of perforations (53.35 x 25.30) in relation to non-supplemented roosters. There was no significant effect (p>0.05) of supplementation of the antioxidant blend on weight gain and breast weight and count and diameter of muscle fibers of offspring at 7 days of age. Feed conversion and weight gain from 14 to 35 days were better (p<0.05) in offspring from supplemented roosters. The supplementation of an antioxidant blend in roosters improved reproductive characteristics assessed and feed conversion and weight gain of offspring.

Varicocele and Testicular Pain: A Review

Varicocele is the dilatation of the scrotal portion of pampiniform plexus and the internal spermatic venous system. About 15% of men suffer from scrotal varicocele and 2% to 10% of them complain of pain. The probable mechanisms for pain include compression of the surrounding neural fibers by the dilated venous complex, elevated testicular temperature, increased venous pressure, hypoxia, oxidative stress, hormonal imbalances, and the reflux of toxic metabolites of adrenal or renal origin. Testicular pain associated with varicoceles is typically described as a dull, aching, or throbbing pain in the testicle, scrotum, or groin; rarely, it can be acute, sharp, or stabbing. The management of testicular pain associated with varicocele starts with a conservative, non-surgical approach and a period of observation. Varicocelectomy in carefully selected candidates with clinically palpable varicocele resolves nearly 80% of all cases of testicular pain. Microsurgical techniques for varicocelectomy have gained popularity with minimal complication rates and favorable outcomes. The grade of varicocele, the nature and duration of pain, body mass index, prior conservative management, and the type of surgical method used, are predictors for the success of varicocelectomy.

Roundup® Herbicide Decreases Quality Parameters of Spermatozoa of Silversides Odontesthes Humensis

The silverside (Odontesthes humensis) is a very interesting model for toxicological studies due its high sensitivity and need for good water quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Roundup on spermatozoa of O. humensis, after acute exposure. The fish were exposed to 0 and 7.8 mg L-1 (a.e.) of glyphosate, respectively. Through computer-assisted sperm analysis, a significant decrease in concentration, total and progressive motility, average path distance, straight line distance, path average velocity, curved line velocity, straight line velocity linearity, wobble, amplitude of lateral head displacement, cross beat frequency, and motility period of silverside spermatozoa exposed to Roundup was observed. Also, increase in membrane fluidity, ROS production and lipid peroxidation and a decrease in the mitochondrial functionality was observed in spermatozoa of Roundup exposed silversides. It was demonstrated that Roundup exposure in a concentration that can be achieve in natural water bodies soon after its application in fields is able to cause losses in several sperm quality parameters, consequently decreasing the fertilization potential of O. humensis spermatozoa.

Lifestyle and fertility: the influence of stress and quality of life on male fertility

BACKGROUND

Male infertility is a widespread condition among couples. In about 50% of cases, couple infertility is attributable to the male partner, mainly due to a failure in spermatogenesis. In recent times, the crucial role that modifiable lifestyle factors play in the development of infertility have generated a growing interest in this field of study, i.e. aging, psychological stress, nutrition, physical activity, caffeine, high scrotal temperature, hot water, mobile telephone use. Several studies have investigated associations between semen quality and the presence of lifestyle stressors i.e. occupational, life events (war, earthquake, etc.) or couple infertility; overall, these studies provide evidence that semen quality is impaired by psychological stress. In this review, we will discuss the impact of quality of life (modifiable lifestyle factors) and psychological stress on male fertility. In addition, the role that increased scrotal temperature along with inappropriate nutritional and physical exercise attitudes exert on male fertility will be presented.

CONCLUSION

The decline of male fertility, particularly associated with advancing age, incorrect lifestyles and environmental factors plays an important role on natality, and its consequences on the future on human population makes this an important public health issue in this century. Thus, modification of lifestyle through a structured program of educational, environmental, nutritional/physical exercise and psychological support, combined with the use of nutraceutical antioxidants can prevent infertility and therefore, may help couples to obtain better quality of life and improved possibility to conceive spontaneously or optimize their chances of conception.

The protective role of melatonin and curcumin in the testis of young and aged rats

We aimed to investigate the effect of melatonin and curcumin treatment on oxidative stress, apoptosis, and histology of testicular tissue in our study. Four groups were formed using young (4 months old, n = 6) and aged (20-22 months old, n = 18) male Wistar albino rats: (a) Young control (1% ethanol:phosphate-buffered saline [PBS], subcutaneously [s.c.]); (b) Aged control (CTL; n = 6, 1% ethanol:PBS, s.c.); (c) Aged Melatonin (MLT; n = 6, 10 mg/kg, s.c.); (d) Aged Curcumin (CUR; n = 6, 30 mg/kg, i.p.). At the end of 21 days, the rats were sacrificed, and testicular tissues were removed. Malondialdehyde (MDA) in the testicular tissue was determined with thiobarbituric acid reactive substances formation, and glutathione (GSH) was determined with modified Ellman method; testosterone level was determined with chemiluminescence method and histologic changes were determined with Haematoxylin-Eosin and Johnsen's scoring; Apoptotic cell counts were made with TUNEL staining of seminiferous tubule in testis. With ageing, MDA level increased in testicular tissue, but GSH and blood testosterone levels decreased. Melatonin treatment for aged rats significantly decreased Paired total testicular/body weight ratio compared to aged control group (p < 0.05). Curcumin treatment for aged rats significantly increased GSH level compared to the aged control group (p < 0.05). Besides, melatonin and curcumin treatment significantly decreased the number of apoptotic cells and significantly increased Johnsen's score (p < 0.05).

Lavandula stoechas essential oils protect against Malathion-induces reproductive disruptions in male mice

BACKGROUND

The current study was conducted to evaluate the protective effect of Lavandula stoechas essential oils (LSEO) against malathion (M) exposure-caused reprotoxicity in male mice as well as the possible mechanisms implicated in such protection.

METHODS

Six-eight-week-old male mice weighting 25-30 g were used and divided into four groups: normal-control, LSEO (50 mg/kg, b.w.), malathion (200 mg/kg, b.w.) and malathion + LSEO treated mice. Malathion was emulsioned in corn oil and per orally administered for 30 days. LSEO was daily administrated during the same period. LSEO chemical identification was done by Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Reproduction-damages and LSEO-benefits were assessed using histopathological, biochemical and steroidogenesis gene expression disruptions and improvements.

RESULTS

The GC-MS analysis, allowed to the identification of 25 bioactive compounds in MCEO. In vivo, we firstly found that malathion exposure induced a clear reprotoxicity as assessed by a significant-decrease (P < 0.05) of testis/epididymis relative weights, serum testosterone level and reproductive performance. Malathion also produced lipoperoxidation, thiol (-SH) groups decrease as well as a significant-depletion (P < 0.05) of antioxidant enzyme activities such as catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), total superoxide dismutase (SOD), Cu/Zn-SOD and Mn-SOD in testis and epididymis. The histopathological examination showed marked change in both studied tissues. All these biochemical and structural changes were significantly (P < 0.05) corrected by LSEO co-administration. More importantly, malathion exposure remarkably (P < 0.05) down-regulated the expression of StAR gene as well as, the mRNA levels of P450scc, 3ßHSD and 17ß-HSD, while LSEO-administration strangely protected against steroidogenesis disruption.

CONCLUSIONS

The potential protective effects of LSEO against malathion-induced reprotoxicity and oxidative stress might be partially to its antioxidant properties as well as its opposite effect against some gene expression involved in the steroidogenesis.

Interactive effects of nonylphenol and bisphenol A exposure with oxidative stress on fetal reproductive indices

Nonylphenol (NP) and/or bisphenol A (BPA) may have reproductive effects. Although the mechanisms of action remain unclear, steroid hormones biosynthesis, hypothalamus pituitary adrenal axis activity, oxidative stress, and crosstalk interaction of NP and BPA mixture and its pathways may play a contributory role. This cross-sectional study examined whether the interactive effects of NP/BPA and oxidative stress biomarkers played a role in reproductive indices (penis length and anogenital distance (AGD)) in 244 mother-fetus pairs. Four biomarkers of oxidative stress, (8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), 8-nitroguanine (8-NO₂Gua), 8-iso-prostaglandin F_2α (8-isoPF_2α), and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal-mercapturic acid (HNE-MA)) were simultaneously analyzed using the high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry method. No significant associations were found between reproductive indices and NP/BPA or oxidative stress biomarkers. Maternal exposure to a mixture of NP and BPA may enhance 8-OHdG. Interactive effects were found in the high 8-isoPF_2α group, and prenatal NP exposure was inversely associated with penis length (β = -3.68 mm; p = 0.01). Similar results were noted among boys who were born to mothers in the high 8-isoPF_2α group, in which BPA was inversely associated with penis length (β = -4.43 mm; p = 0.005). Our findings suggest important implications for prenatal exposure to oxidative stress, as evidenced by the 8-isoPF2α level. Thus, NP and BPA may interact to shape fetal reproductive tract development, particularly in boys. The interactive effects of NP/BPA, oxidative stress, and reproductive indices should be considered.

Effects of mobile phone exposure on metabolomics in the male and female reproductive systems

With current advances in technology, a number of epidemiological and experimental studies have reported a broad range of adverse effects of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on human health. Multiple cellular mechanisms have been proposed as direct causes or contributors to these biological effects. EMF-induced alterations in cellular levels can activate voltage-gated calcium channels and lead to the formation of free radicals, protein misfolding and DNA damage. Because rapidly dividing germ cells go through meiosis and mitosis, they are more sensitive to EMF in contrast to other slower-growing cell types. In this review, possible mechanistic pathways of the effects of EMF exposure on fertilization, oogenesis and spermatogenesis are discussed. In addition, the present review also evaluates metabolomic effects of GSM-modulated EMFs on the male and female reproductive systems in recent human and animal studies. In this context, experimental and epidemiological studies which examine the impact of mobile phone radiation on the processes of oogenesis and spermatogenesis are examined in line with current approaches.

The excessive use of antioxidant therapy: A possible cause of male infertility?

Reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress are closely associated with various pathologies such as neurodegenerative diseases, ageing and male infertility. Hence, antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, N-acetyl cysteine, L-carnitine and folic acid are regularly used in various treatment regimens to protect cells from the damage induced by free radicals. However, given their over-the-counter availability at unnaturally high concentrations and also the fact that they are commonly added to various food products, patients may run a risk of consuming excessive dosages of these compounds, which may then be toxic. The few studies that have assessed antioxidant overuse and the associated adverse effects found that large doses of dietary antioxidant supplements have varying-if any-therapeutic effects even though free radicals clearly damage cells-a phenomenon that has been termed the "antioxidant paradox." Furthermore, overuse of antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, N-acetyl cysteine may lead to reductive stress, which is reported to be as dangerous to cells as oxidative stress and can be the cause of diseases such as cancer or cardiomyopathy. Therefore, we feel that there is a need for more elaborate research to establish the clear benefits and risks involved in antioxidant therapy for male infertility.

Dietary quercetin maintains the semen quality in rabbits under summer heat stress

This study focused to determine beneficial impact of feeding quercetin supplemented diet on semen quality in summer heat imposed rabbits. Twelve heat stressed (HS) adult rabbits bucks were either fed with basal diet (HS; n = 06) or quercetin supplemented diet (QU-HS; n = 06) for a period of 56 days. Semen samples were collected and evaluated for volume, osmolality, morphology, concentration, motility, motion kinetics, viability, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial potential, and seminal plasma MDA level. Semen volume, concentration, motility and sperm kinetics parameters were affected by diet supplementation. Diet affected the sperm mitochondrial potential and day of treatment affected the viable sperm percentage. There was an effect of diet, day of treatment and diet by day interaction on acrosome reaction rate. Sperm head abnormalities were influenced by diet provision, sperm mid-piece abnormalities were affected by diet and day of treatment, whereas, the effect of diet and diet by day of treatment interaction were observed for total sperm abnormalities. There was an effect of diet and diet by day interaction for seminal plasma MDA level. In conclusions, quercetin reduces the damaging effects of HS and maintains the semen quality by lowering the oxidative stress in rabbits.

Association of polymorphisms in genes coding for antioxidant enzymes and human male infertility

PURPOSE

Although oxidative stress is thought to be an important cause of male infertility, primarily due to DNA and cell membrane damage, little is known about the genetic causes underlying suboptimal function of the seminal enzymatic antioxidant system. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of four potentially functional polymorphisms associated with oxidative stress pathway genes (superoxide dismutase-SOD2 lle58Thr and SOD2 rs4880, catalase-CAT C-262T, glutathione peroxidase 1-GPX1 Pro200Leu) and two null variants of the glutathione S transferase (GSTT and GSTM) genes and infertility risk.

METHODS

A case control study was conducted on 313 infertile patients and 80 fertile donors. Each ejaculate was subjected to a seminal analysis that included the classical parameters seminal volume, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and sperm morphology, as well as sperm DNA fragmentation (patients only). Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and PCR multiplex methods were carried out for genotyping.

RESULTS

Statistically significant differences were found between fertile donors and infertile patients for SNP CAT C-262T; the CC genotype was related with a twofold increased risk of infertility (odds ratio [OR] = 2.262; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.369-3.733; P = 0.001), whereas the CT genotype was associated with a protective effect (OR = 0.401; 95% CI = 0.241-0.667; P = 0.001). Surprisingly, the SOD2 Ile58ssThr SNP was not represented in the sample population, so its frequency in the current population frequenting fertility clinics in Madrid may be very low.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the CAT SNP C-262T is potentially associated with an increased risk of male infertility.