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Ortiz-Vallecillo A, Santamaría-López E, García-Ruiz D, Martín-Lozano D, Candenas L, Pinto FM, Fernández-Sánchez M, González-Ravina C. Influence of BMI, Cigarette Smoking and Cryopreservation on Tyrosine Phosphorylation during Sperm Capacitation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7582. [PMID: 39062825 PMCID: PMC11276716 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Capacitation involves tyrosine phosphorylation (TP) as a key marker. Lifestyle-related factors, such as obesity and smoking, are recognized for their adverse effects on semen quality and male fertility, yet the underlying mechanisms, including their potential impact on TP, remain unclear. Moreover, the effect of sperm cryopreservation on TP at the human sperm population level is unexplored. Flow cytometry analysis of global TP was performed on pre-capacitated, post-capacitated and 1- and 3-hours' incubated fresh and frozen-thawed samples from sperm donors (n = 40). Neither being overweight nor smoking (or both) significantly affected the percentage of sperm showing TP. However, elevated BMI and smoking intensity correlated with heightened basal TP levels (r = 0.226, p = 0.003) and heightened increase in TP after 3 h of incubation (r = 0.185, p = 0.017), respectively. Cryopreservation resulted in increased global TP levels after capacitation but not immediately after thawing. Nonetheless, most donors' thawed samples showed increased TP levels before and after capacitation as well as after incubation. Additionally, phosphorylation patterns in fresh and frozen-thawed samples were similar, indicating consistent sample response to capacitation stimuli despite differences in TP levels. Overall, this study sheds light on the potential impacts of lifestyle factors and cryopreservation on the dynamics of global TP levels during capacitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Ortiz-Vallecillo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106-Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (A.O.-V.); (C.G.-R.)
| | | | - Diego García-Ruiz
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106-Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (A.O.-V.); (C.G.-R.)
| | - David Martín-Lozano
- Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas, CSIC, Calle Américo Vespucio, 49, 41092 Seville, Spain; (D.M.-L.); (L.C.); (F.M.P.)
| | - Luz Candenas
- Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas, CSIC, Calle Américo Vespucio, 49, 41092 Seville, Spain; (D.M.-L.); (L.C.); (F.M.P.)
| | - Francisco M. Pinto
- Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas, CSIC, Calle Américo Vespucio, 49, 41092 Seville, Spain; (D.M.-L.); (L.C.); (F.M.P.)
| | - Manuel Fernández-Sánchez
- VIDA RECOLETAS Seville, Calle Américo Vespucio, 19, 41092 Seville, Spain;
- Departamento de Cirugía, Universidad de Sevilla, Avenida Sánchez Pizjuán, S/N, 41009 Seville, Spain
- Departamento de Biología Molecular e Ingeniería Bioquímica, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Carretera de Utrera, 1, 41013 Seville, Spain
| | - Cristina González-Ravina
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106-Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (A.O.-V.); (C.G.-R.)
- Departamento de Biología Molecular e Ingeniería Bioquímica, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Carretera de Utrera, 1, 41013 Seville, Spain
- IVI-RMA Global Headquarters, Calle Américo Vespucio, 5, 41092 Seville, Spain
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2
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McPherson NO, Nottle M, McIlfatrick S, Saini A, Hamilton H, Bowman E, Tully CA, Pacella-Ince L, Zander-Fox D, Bakos HW. Clinical use of progesterone in human sperm preparation media for increasing IVF success. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103625. [PMID: 38402675 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Can the addition of progesterone and neurotensin, molecular agents found in the female reproductive tract, after sperm washing increase the fertilization potential of human spermatozoa? DESIGN (i) Cohort study of 24 men. Spermatozoa selected by swim-up were incubated in either progesterone or neurotensin (0.1-100 µM) for 1-4 h, and hyperactive motility and binding to hyaluronan (0.1-100 µM) were assessed. The effect of progesterone 10 µM on sperm function was assessed in a blinded manner, including: hyperactive motility, binding to hyaluronan, tyrosine phosphorylation, acrosome reaction and oxidative DNA damage. (i) Embryo safety testing [one-cell mouse embryo assay (MEA), endotoxin and sterility counts (n = 3)] in preclinical embryo models of IVF (murine and porcine, n = 7 each model) and a small preliminary human study (n = 4) of couples undergoing standard IVF with oocytes inseminated with spermatozoa ± 10 µM progesterone. RESULTS Progesterone 10 µM increased sperm binding to hyaluronan, hyperactive motility and tyrosine phosphorylation (all P < 0.05). Neurotensin had no effect (P > 0.05). Progesterone 10 µM in human embryo culture media passed embryo safety testing (MEA, endotoxin concentration and sterility plate count). In preclinical models of IVF, the exposure of spermatozoa to progesterone 10 µM and oocytes to progesterone 1 µM was not detrimental, and increased the fertilization rate in mice and the blastocyst cell number in mice and pigs (all P ≤ 0.03). In humans, every transferred blastocyst that had been produced from spermatozoa exposed to progesterone resulted in a live birth. CONCLUSION The addition of progesterone to sperm preparation media shows promise as an adjunct to current methods for increasing fertilization potential. Randomized controlled trials are required to determine the clinical utility of progesterone for improving IVF outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole O McPherson
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Monash IVF Group, Clayton, Australia.
| | - Mark Nottle
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Stephan McIlfatrick
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Anmol Saini
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | | | - Cathryn A Tully
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Repromed, Dulwich, Australia
| | - Leanne Pacella-Ince
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Repromed, Dulwich, Australia
| | - Deirdre Zander-Fox
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Monash IVF Group, Clayton, Australia; Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Hassan W Bakos
- Monash IVF Group, Clayton, Australia; University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Memphasys Ltd, Homebush, Australia
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3
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Arrais AM, Burla Dias AJ, de Souza CLM, Curcio AG, Mello MRBD. Inhibition of phospholipase C reduces the capacitation of cryopreserved ovine sperm. Theriogenology 2024; 213:19-23. [PMID: 37793221 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of phospholipase C (PLC) on the capacitation of cryopreserved ovine semen. Sixteen semen samples were cryopreserved with diluent added by 0, 10, or 20 μM of U73122, a PLC inhibitor. The sperm kinetics of the thawed samples were evaluated using the "Computer-assisted Sperm Analysis" system, and the integrity of the plasma and mitochondrial membranes was evaluated using fluorescent probes. Additionally, sperm capacitation and the acrosome reaction with chlortetracycline hydrochloride were evaluated before and after capacitation induction. The results were analysed using analysis of variance and Tukey's test with a 95% probability. Concentrations of 10 or 20 μM of U73122 did not affect the kinetics or number of sperm with intact plasma and mitochondrial membranes. However, after thawing, 10 and 20 μM of the inhibitor reduced the percentage of capacitated and acrosome-reacted sperm. After induction of capacitation, there was a reduction in the number of non-capacitated sperm in all treatment groups, suggesting a reversible effect of U73122. In conclusion, U73122 at concentrations of 10 or 20 μM prevents premature capacitation and acrosome reaction induced by the freezing procedure, without affecting the kinetics and integrity of the sperm membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Matos Arrais
- Departamento de Reprodução e Avaliação Animal, Universidade Federal Rural Do Rio de Janeiro, Rodovia BR 465, Km 7, S/n, Seropédica, RJ, CEP 23890-000, Brazil
| | - Angelo José Burla Dias
- Laboratório de Reprodução e Melhoramento Genético Animal, Universidade Estadual Do Norte Fluminense, 2000 Alberto Lamego Avenue, Campos Dos Goytacazes, RJ, 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Cláudio Luiz Melo de Souza
- Laboratório de Ciências Agrícolas, Universidade Estadual Do Norte Fluminense, 2000 Alberto Lamego Avenue, Campos Dos Goytacazes, RJ, CEP 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Alinne Glória Curcio
- Laboratório de Reprodução e Melhoramento Genético Animal, Universidade Estadual Do Norte Fluminense, 2000 Alberto Lamego Avenue, Campos Dos Goytacazes, RJ, 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Marco Roberto Bourg de Mello
- Departamento de Reprodução e Avaliação Animal, Universidade Federal Rural Do Rio de Janeiro, Rodovia BR 465, Km 7, S/n, Seropédica, RJ, CEP 23890-000, Brazil.
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Chen C, Zhang Z, Gu X, Sheng X, Xiao L, Wang X. Exosomes: New regulators of reproductive development. Mater Today Bio 2023; 19:100608. [PMID: 36969697 PMCID: PMC10034510 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are a subtype of extracellular vesicles (EVs) with a size range between 30 and 150 nm, which can be released by the majority of cell types and circulate in body fluid. They function as a long-distance cell-to-cell communication mechanism that modulates the gene expression profile and fate of target cells. Increasing evidence has indicated exosomes' central role in regulating various complex reproductive processes. However, to our knowledge, a review that focally and vividly describes the role of exosomes in reproductive development is still lacking. This review highlights our knowledge about the contribution of exosomes to early mammalian reproduction, such as gametogenesis, fertilization, early embryonic development, implantation, placentation and pregnancy. The discussion is primarily drawn from literature pertaining to the mammalian lineage with emphasis on the roles of exosomes in human reproduction and laboratory and livestock models.
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Goss DM, Vasilescu SA, Sacks G, Gardner DK, Warkiani ME. Microfluidics facilitating the use of small extracellular vesicles in innovative approaches to male infertility. Nat Rev Urol 2023; 20:66-95. [PMID: 36348030 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-022-00660-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Sperm are transcriptionally and translationally quiescent and, therefore, rely on the seminal plasma microenvironment for function, survival and fertilization of the oocyte in the oviduct. The male reproductive system influences sperm function via the binding and fusion of secreted epididymal (epididymosomes) and prostatic (prostasomes) small extracellular vesicles (S-EVs) that facilitate the transfer of proteins, lipids and nucleic acids to sperm. Seminal plasma S-EVs have important roles in sperm maturation, immune and oxidative stress protection, capacitation, fertilization and endometrial implantation and receptivity. Supplementing asthenozoospermic samples with normospermic-derived S-EVs can improve sperm motility and S-EV microRNAs can be used to predict non-obstructive azoospermia. Thus, S-EV influence on sperm physiology might have both therapeutic and diagnostic potential; however, the isolation of pure populations of S-EVs from bodily fluids with current conventional methods presents a substantial hurdle. Many conventional techniques lack accuracy, effectiveness, and practicality; yet microfluidic technology has the potential to simplify and improve S-EV isolation and detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale M Goss
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- IVF Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Steven A Vasilescu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- NeoGenix Biosciences pty ltd, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gavin Sacks
- IVF Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David K Gardner
- Melbourne IVF, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Majid E Warkiani
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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6
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Gupta HP, Pandey R, Ravi Ram K. Altered sperm fate in the reproductive tract milieu due to oxidative stress leads to sub-fertility in type 1 diabetes females: A Drosophila-based study. Life Sci 2023; 313:121306. [PMID: 36543282 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Female sub-fertility, a prominent complication due to Type 1 diabetes (T1D), is generally attributed to disturbances in menstrual cycles and/or ovarian defects/disorders. T1D women, however, are high in oxidative stress, although the impact of the same on their reproduction and associated events remains unknown. Therefore, we assessed the repercussions of elevated oxidative stress on the sperm fate (storage/utilization) in the reproductive tract milieu of T1D females and their fertility using the Drosophila T1D model (Df[dilp1-5]), which lacks insulin-like peptides and displays reduced female fertility. MAIN METHODS We mated Df[dilp1-5] females to normal males and thereafter examined sperm storage and/or utilization in conjunction with oxidative stress parameters in mated Df[dilp1-5] females at different time points. Also, the impact of antioxidant (Amla or Vitamin C) supplementation on the above oxidative stress parameters in Df[dilp1-5] females and the consequences on their sperm and fertility levels were examined. KEY FINDINGS Df[dilp1-5] females showed elevated oxidative stress parameters and a few of their reproductive tract proteins are oxidatively modified. Also, these females stored significantly fewer sperm and also did not utilize sperm as efficiently as their controls. Surprisingly, amelioration of the oxidative stress in Df[dilp1-5] females' milieu through antioxidant (Amla or vitamin C) supplementation enhanced sperm storage and improved fertility. SIGNIFICANCE Hyperglycemia coupled with elevated oxidative stress within the female reproductive tract environment affects the sperm fate, thereby reducing female fertility in T1D. In addition, these findings suggest that antioxidant supplementation may substantially aid in the mitigation of sub-fertility in T1D females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himanshu Pawankumar Gupta
- Embryotoxicology Laboratory, Environmental Toxicology Group, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Vishvigyan Bhavan, 31, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow 226 001, Uttar Pradesh, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201 002, India
| | - Richa Pandey
- Embryotoxicology Laboratory, Environmental Toxicology Group, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Vishvigyan Bhavan, 31, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow 226 001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Kristipati Ravi Ram
- Embryotoxicology Laboratory, Environmental Toxicology Group, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Vishvigyan Bhavan, 31, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow 226 001, Uttar Pradesh, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201 002, India.
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7
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Tourmente M, Sansegundo E, Rial E, Roldan ERS. Bioenergetic changes in response to sperm capacitation and two-way metabolic compensation in a new murine model. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:11. [PMID: 36534181 PMCID: PMC9763147 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04652-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The acquisition of fertilizing ability by mammalian spermatozoa, known as "capacitation," includes processes that depend on particular metabolic pathways. This has led to the hypothesis that ATP demands might differ between capacitated and non-capacitated cells. Mouse sperm can produce ATP via OXPHOS and aerobic glycolysis, an advantageous characteristic considering that these cells have to function in the complex and variable environment of the female reproductive tract. Nonetheless, despite evidence showing that both metabolic pathways play a role in events associated with mouse sperm capacitation, there is contradictory evidence regarding changes promoted by capacitation in this species. In addition, the vast majority of studies regarding murine sperm metabolism use Mus musculus laboratory strains as model, thus neglecting the wide diversity of sperm traits of other species of Mus. Focus on closely related species with distinct evolutionary histories, which may be the result of different selective pressures, could shed light on diversity of metabolic processes. Here, we analyzed variations in sperm bioenergetics associated with capacitation in spermatozoa of the steppe mouse, Mus spicilegus, a species with high sperm performance. Furthermore, we compared sperm metabolic traits of this species with similar traits previously characterized in M. musculus. We found that the metabolism of M. spicilegus sperm responded to capacitation in a manner similar to that of M. musculus sperm. However, M. spicilegus sperm showed distinct metabolic features, including the ability to perform cross-pathway metabolic compensation in response to either respiratory or glycolytic inhibition, thus revealing a delicate fine-tuning of its metabolic capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximiliano Tourmente
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, CSIC, Madrid, Spain.
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales (FCEFyN - UNC), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IIByT - CONICET, UNC), Córdoba, Argentina.
| | - Ester Sansegundo
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Rial
- Department of Structural and Chemical Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo R S Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, CSIC, Madrid, Spain.
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8
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Skerrett-Byrne DA, Anderson AL, Bromfield EG, Bernstein IR, Mulhall JE, Schjenken JE, Dun MD, Humphrey SJ, Nixon B. Global profiling of the proteomic changes associated with the post-testicular maturation of mouse spermatozoa. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111655. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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9
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Omolaoye TS, Halabi MO, Mubarak M, Cyril AC, Duvuru R, Radhakrishnan R, Du Plessis SS. Statins and Male Fertility: Is There a Cause for Concern? TOXICS 2022; 10:627. [PMID: 36287907 PMCID: PMC9607778 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10100627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The well-known 3-hydroxyl 3-methyl glutaryl-Coenzyme A reductase inhibitors, called statins, have been the main medication used in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and some cases of cardiovascular diseases. The effectiveness of this drug in controlling cholesterol production is impeccable, however, patients often complain of a variety of side effects, such as myalgia, muscle atrophy, and in some cases, rhabdomyolysis. Not only has the use of statins caused the aforementioned side effects, but they are also shown to cause testicular discomfort, erectile dysfunction, altered semen parameters, and modified steroid hormone production. These reported adverse effects on male fertility are not generally agreed upon, as some have shown the use to be beneficial. Hence, this makes the aftermath effect of statin use on male fertility debatable and controversial. The negative effects have been associated with imbalanced or reduced steroid hormones, which are necessary for proper spermatogenesis and other sexual functions. Meanwhile, the beneficial effects are related to statin's anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective properties. These contradictory findings are in part due to the different age of users, concentrations of statins, the type and duration of treatment, and the underlying disease and/or comorbidities. Therefore, the current study aims to analyze the literature and gather evidence as to the effects of statin on male sexual health and reproductive parameters, and subsequently give recommendations for the direction of future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temidayo S. Omolaoye
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mouhammad Omar Halabi
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons Ireland-Bahrain, Busaiteen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Maitha Mubarak
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Asha Caroline Cyril
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ruthwik Duvuru
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rajan Radhakrishnan
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Stefan S. Du Plessis
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, Cape Town P.O. Box 7505, South Africa
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10
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Fernández-López P, Garriga J, Casas I, Yeste M, Bartumeus F. Predicting fertility from sperm motility landscapes. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1027. [PMID: 36171267 PMCID: PMC9519750 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03954-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the organisational principles of sperm motility has both evolutionary and applied impact. The emergence of computer aided systems in this field came with the promise of automated quantification and classification, potentially improving our understanding of the determinants of reproductive success. Yet, nowadays the relationship between sperm variability and fertility remains unclear. Here, we characterize pig sperm motility using t-SNE, an embedding method adequate to study behavioural variability. T-SNE reveals a hierarchical organization of sperm motility across ejaculates and individuals, enabling accurate fertility predictions by means of Bayesian logistic regression. Our results show that sperm motility features, like high-speed and straight-lined motion, correlate positively with fertility and are more relevant than other sources of variability. We propose the combined use of embedding methods with Bayesian inference frameworks in order to achieve a better understanding of the relationship between fertility and sperm motility in animals, including humans. Dimension reduction methods on porcine sperm motility landscapes reveal heterogeneity and hierarchy in sperm movement behavior and show high-speed and straight-lined motion as predictive features of fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pol Fernández-López
- Theoretical and Computational Ecology Group, Centre d'Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Cala Sant Francesc, 14, 17300, Blanes, Spain
| | - Joan Garriga
- Theoretical and Computational Ecology Group, Centre d'Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Cala Sant Francesc, 14, 17300, Blanes, Spain
| | - Isabel Casas
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, ICREA, Passeig Lluís Companys, 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Frederic Bartumeus
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, ICREA, Passeig Lluís Companys, 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain. .,Centre de Recerca Ecològica i Aplicacions Forestals (CREAF), Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain.
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11
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Tourmente M, Sansegundo E, Rial E, Roldan ERS. Capacitation promotes a shift in energy metabolism in murine sperm. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:950979. [PMID: 36081906 PMCID: PMC9445201 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.950979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, sperm acquire fertilization ability after a series of physiological and biochemical changes, collectively known as capacitation, that occur inside the female reproductive tract. In addition to other requirements, sperm bioenergetic metabolism has been identified as a fundamental component in the acquisition of capacitation. Mammalian sperm produce ATP through two main metabolic processes, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and aerobic glycolysis that are localized to two different flagellar compartments, the midpiece, and the principal piece, respectively. In mouse sperm, the occurrence of many events associated with capacitation relies on the activity of these two energy-producing pathways, leading to the hypothesis that some of these events may impose changes in sperm energetic demands. In the present study, we used extracellular flux analysis to evaluate changes in glycolytic and respiratory parameters of murine sperm that occur as a consequence of capacitation. Furthermore, we examined whether these variations affect sperm ATP sustainability. Our results show that capacitation promotes a shift in the usage ratio of the two main metabolic pathways, from oxidative to glycolytic. However, this metabolic rewiring does not seem to affect the rate at which the sperm consume ATP. We conclude that the probable function of the metabolic switch is to increase the ATP supply in the distal flagellar regions, thus sustaining the energetic demands that arise from capacitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximiliano Tourmente
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales (FCEFyN—UNC), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IIByT—CONICET, UNC), Córdoba, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Maximiliano Tourmente, ; Eduardo R. S. Roldan,
| | - Ester Sansegundo
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Rial
- Department of Structural and Chemical Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo R. S. Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Maximiliano Tourmente, ; Eduardo R. S. Roldan,
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12
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TRH and TRH-like peptide levels covary with caloric restriction and oral metformin in rat heart and testis. ENDOCRINE AND METABOLIC SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.endmts.2022.100121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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13
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Santos JC, Marques CC, Baptista MC, Pimenta J, Teixeira J, Montezinho L, Cagide F, Borges F, Oliveira PJ, Pereira RMLN. Effect of a Novel Hydroxybenzoic Acid Based Mitochondria Directed Antioxidant Molecule on Bovine Sperm Function and Embryo Production. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12070804. [PMID: 35405794 PMCID: PMC8996912 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm cells are particularly vulnerable to reactive oxygen species (ROS), impairing their fertilizing ability. Our objective was to study the effect of a novel mitochondrial-directed antioxidant, AntiOxBEN2, on bovine sperm function. This antioxidant was added to the semen capacitation medium (CAP), during the swim-up process, and to the fertilization medium (FERT) during the co-incubation of matured oocytes and capacitated spermatozoa, in concentrations of 0 (control), 1, and 10 µM. After the swim-up, sperm motility (CASA and visual analysis), vitality (eosin-nigrosin), mitochondrial membrane potential (JC1), intracellular ROS, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels, and basal metabolism (Seahorse Xfe96) were evaluated. Embryo development and quality were also assessed. Higher cleavage rates were obtained when 1 µM AntiOxBEN2 were added to CAP and FERT media (compared to control, p < 0.04). A positive effect of AntiOxBEN2 on intracellular ROS reduction (p = 0.01), on the increment of mitochondrial membrane potential (p ≤ 0.003) and, consequently, on the sperm quality was identified. However, the highest dose impaired progressive motility, ATP production, and the number of produced embryos. The results demonstrate a beneficial effect of AntiOxBEN2 (1 µM) on sperm capacitation and fertilization processes, thus improving embryonic development. This may constitute a putative novel therapeutic strategy to improve the outcomes of assisted reproductive techniques (ART).
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Affiliation(s)
- João Campos Santos
- Biotechnology and Genetic Resources Unit, INIAV—National Institute of Agrarian and Veterinarian Research, Quinta da Fonte Boa, 2005-048 Vale de Santarém, Portugal; (J.C.S.); (C.C.M.); (M.C.B.); (J.P.)
- CIVG, Center for Investigation Vasco da Gama (CIVG), Department of Veterinary Sciences, Escola Universitária Vasco da Gama, 3020-210 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Carla Cruz Marques
- Biotechnology and Genetic Resources Unit, INIAV—National Institute of Agrarian and Veterinarian Research, Quinta da Fonte Boa, 2005-048 Vale de Santarém, Portugal; (J.C.S.); (C.C.M.); (M.C.B.); (J.P.)
| | - Maria Conceição Baptista
- Biotechnology and Genetic Resources Unit, INIAV—National Institute of Agrarian and Veterinarian Research, Quinta da Fonte Boa, 2005-048 Vale de Santarém, Portugal; (J.C.S.); (C.C.M.); (M.C.B.); (J.P.)
| | - Jorge Pimenta
- Biotechnology and Genetic Resources Unit, INIAV—National Institute of Agrarian and Veterinarian Research, Quinta da Fonte Boa, 2005-048 Vale de Santarém, Portugal; (J.C.S.); (C.C.M.); (M.C.B.); (J.P.)
- CIISA—Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, University of Lisboa, Av. da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - José Teixeira
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB—Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (J.T.); (P.J.O.)
- MitoTAG, Biocant Park—Parque Tecnológico de Cantanhede, Núcleo 04, Lote 04, 3060-197 Cantanhede, Portugal
| | - Liliana Montezinho
- CIVG, Center for Investigation Vasco da Gama (CIVG), Department of Veterinary Sciences, Escola Universitária Vasco da Gama, 3020-210 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Fernando Cagide
- CIQUP/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (F.C.); (F.B.)
| | - Fernanda Borges
- CIQUP/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (F.C.); (F.B.)
| | - Paulo J. Oliveira
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB—Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (J.T.); (P.J.O.)
| | - Rosa M. L. N. Pereira
- Biotechnology and Genetic Resources Unit, INIAV—National Institute of Agrarian and Veterinarian Research, Quinta da Fonte Boa, 2005-048 Vale de Santarém, Portugal; (J.C.S.); (C.C.M.); (M.C.B.); (J.P.)
- CIISA—Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, University of Lisboa, Av. da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +351-00345767300
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14
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Sansegundo E, Tourmente M, Roldan ERS. Energy Metabolism and Hyperactivation of Spermatozoa from Three Mouse Species under Capacitating Conditions. Cells 2022; 11:220. [PMID: 35053337 PMCID: PMC8773617 DOI: 10.3390/cells11020220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian sperm differ widely in sperm morphology, and several explanations have been presented to account for this diversity. Less is known about variation in sperm physiology and cellular processes that can give sperm cells an advantage when competing to fertilize oocytes. Capacitation of spermatozoa, a process essential for mammalian fertilization, correlates with changes in motility that result in a characteristic swimming pattern known as hyperactivation. Previous studies revealed that sperm motility and velocity depend on the amount of ATP available and, therefore, changes in sperm movement occurring during capacitation and hyperactivation may involve changes in sperm bioenergetics. Here, we examine differences in ATP levels of sperm from three mouse species (genus Mus), differing in sperm competition levels, incubated under non-capacitating and capacitating conditions, to analyse relationships between energetics, capacitation, and swimming patterns. We found that, in general terms, the amount of sperm ATP decreased more rapidly under capacitating conditions. This descent was related to the development of a hyperactivated pattern of movement in two species (M. musculus and M. spicilegus) but not in the other (M. spretus), suggesting that, in the latter, temporal dynamics and energetic demands of capacitation and hyperactivation may be decoupled or that the hyperactivation pattern differs. The decrease in ATP levels during capacitation was steeper in species with higher levels of sperm competition than in those with lower levels. Our results suggest that, during capacitation, sperm consume more ATP than under non-capacitating conditions. This higher ATP consumption may be linked to higher velocity and lateral head displacement, which are associated with hyperactivated motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Sansegundo
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Spanish Research Council (CSIC), 28006 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Maximiliano Tourmente
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Spanish Research Council (CSIC), 28006 Madrid, Spain;
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Cordoba X5016GCA, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (IIByT), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científica y Técnicas (CONICET), Cordoba X5016GCA, Argentina
| | - Eduardo R. S. Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Spanish Research Council (CSIC), 28006 Madrid, Spain;
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15
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Silva AAS, Raimundo TRF, Mariani NAP, Kushima H, Avellar MCW, Buffone MG, Paula-Lopes FF, Moura MT, Silva EJR. Dissecting EPPIN protease inhibitor domains in sperm motility and fertilizing ability: repercussions for male contraceptive development. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaab066. [PMID: 34792600 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
EPPIN (epididymal protease inhibitor) is a mammalian conserved sperm-binding protein displaying an N-terminal WFDC (whey-acidic protein four-disulfide core) and a C-terminal Kunitz protease inhibitor domains. EPPIN plays a key role in regulating sperm motility after ejaculation via interaction with the seminal plasma protein SEMG1 (semenogelin-1). EPPIN ligands targeting the SEMG1 binding site in the Kunitz domain are under development as male contraceptive drugs. Nevertheless, the relative contributions of EPPIN WFDC and Kunitz domains to sperm function remain obscure. Here, we evaluated the effects of antibodies targeting specific epitopes in EPPIN's WFDC (Q20E antibody, Gln20-Glu39 epitope) and Kunitz (S21C and F21C antibodies, Ser103-Cys123 and Phe90-C110 epitopes, respectively) domains on mouse sperm motility and fertilizing ability. Computer-assisted sperm analysis showed that sperm co-incubation with S21C antibody (but not F21C antibody) lowered progressive and hyperactivated motilities and impaired kinematic parameters describing progressive (straight-line velocity; VSL, average path velocity; VAP and straightness; STR) and vigorous sperm movements (curvilinear velocity; VCL, amplitude of lateral head movement; ALH, and linearity; LIN) compared with control. Conversely, Q20E antibody-induced milder inhibition of progressive motility and kinematic parameters (VAP, VCL and ALH). Sperm co-incubation with S21C or Q20E antibodies affected in vitro fertilization as revealed by reduced cleavage rates, albeit without changes in capacitation-induced tyrosine phosphorylation. In conclusion, we show that targeting specific epitopes in EPPIN Kunitz and WFDC domains inhibits sperm motility and capacitation-associated events, which decrease their fertilizing ability; nevertheless, similar observations in vivo remain to be demonstrated. Simultaneously targeting residues in S21C and Q20E epitopes is a promising approach for the rational design of EPPIN-based ligands with spermostatic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan A S Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Tamiris R F Raimundo
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Noemia A P Mariani
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Hélio Kushima
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Christina W Avellar
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo-SP, Brazil
| | - Mariano G Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fabíola F Paula-Lopes
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Campus Diadema, Diadema-SP, Brazil
| | - Marcelo T Moura
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Campus Diadema, Diadema-SP, Brazil
| | - Erick J R Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-SP, Brazil
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16
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Sáez-Espinosa P, Huerta-Retamal N, Robles-Gómez L, Avilés M, Aizpurua J, Velasco I, Romero A, Gómez-Torres MJ. Influence of in vitro capacitation time on structural and functional human sperm parameters. Asian J Androl 2021; 22:447-453. [PMID: 31621655 PMCID: PMC7523607 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_104_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
A cascade of dramatic physiological events is linked to the sperm acrosome reaction and binding to the oocyte's zona pellucida during human sperm capacitation. However, structural and functional sperm changes during capacitation currently remain poorly defined. Here, we performed a multibiomarker approach based on the utilization of sperm concentration, motility, viability, morphology, acrosome reaction, tyrosine phosphorylation, DNA fragmentation, and lectin-binding sites to analyze the impact caused by swim-up selection times (uncapacitated, 1 h capacitated, and 4 h capacitated) on sperm function and structure in normozoospermic samples. We found that a 4 h swim-up capacitation increased sperm quality, because a large number of cells with normal morphology and lower DNA fragmentation rates were recovered. Furthermore, the long-term capacitation induced a higher percentage of cells with tyrosine phosphorylation of the principal piece as well as a redistribution of lectin-binding sites. Overall, the multivariate biomarkers analyzed showed a less variable distribution on spermatozoa recovered after 4 h capacitation than that with the shorter capacitation time. These findings stress the importance of capacitation time as a relevant factor in sperm quality with potential biological reproductive implications both for basic research and in assisted reproduction techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Sáez-Espinosa
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain.,FISABIO - University Hospital of San Juan de Alicante, Service of Gynecology and Obstetrics, San Juan de Alicante 03550, Spain
| | - Natalia Huerta-Retamal
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain
| | - Laura Robles-Gómez
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia and IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Jon Aizpurua
- IVF Spain, Reproductive Medicine, Alicante 03540, Spain
| | - Irene Velasco
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain.,University Hospital of San Juan de Alicante, Service of Gynecology and Obstetrics, San Juan de Alicante 03550, Spain
| | - Alejandro Romero
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain
| | - María José Gómez-Torres
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain.,Human Fertility Cathedra, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain
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17
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Wang Y, Zhao W, Mei S, Chen P, Leung TY, Lee CL, Yeung WSB, Ou JP, Liang X, Chiu PCN. Identification of Sialyl-Lewis(x)-Interacting Protein on Human Spermatozoa. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:700396. [PMID: 34354992 PMCID: PMC8329450 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.700396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Capacitated spermatozoa initiate fertilization by binding to the zona pellucida (ZP). Defective spermatozoa-ZP binding causes infertility. The sialyl-Lewis(x) (SLeX) sequence is the most abundant terminal sequence on the glycans of human ZP glycoproteins involving in spermatozoa-ZP binding. This study aimed to identify and characterize the SLeX-binding proteins on human spermatozoa. By using affinity chromatography followed by mass spectrometric analysis, chromosome 1 open reading frame 56 (C1orf56) was identified to be a SLeX-binding protein of capacitated spermatozoa. The acrosomal region of spermatozoa possessed C1orf56 immunoreactive signals with intensities that increased after capacitation indicating translocation of C1orf56 to the cell surface during capacitation. Treatment with antibody against C1orf56 inhibited spermatozoa-ZP binding and ZP-induced acrosome reaction. Purified C1orf56 from capacitated spermatozoa bound to human ZP. A pilot clinical study was conducted and found no association between the percentage of capacitated spermatozoa with C1orf56 expression and in vitro fertilization (IVF) rate in assisted reproduction treatment. However, the percentage of C1orf56 positive spermatozoa in the acrosome-reacted population was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in cycles with a fertilization rate < 60% when compared to those with a higher fertilization rate, suggesting that C1orf56 may have functions after ZP-binding and acrosome reaction. A larger clinical trial is needed to determine the possible use of sperm C1orf56 content for the prediction of fertilization potential of sperm samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Weie Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Si Mei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Physiology, Medical College, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Panyu Chen
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tsz-Ying Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jian-Ping Ou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liang
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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18
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Rodriguez-Martinez H, Martinez EA, Calvete JJ, Peña Vega FJ, Roca J. Seminal Plasma: Relevant for Fertility? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094368. [PMID: 33922047 PMCID: PMC8122421 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP), the non-cellular component of semen, is a heterogeneous composite fluid built by secretions of the testis, the epididymis and the accessory sexual glands. Its composition, despite species-specific anatomical peculiarities, consistently contains inorganic ions, specific hormones, proteins and peptides, including cytokines and enzymes, cholesterol, DNA and RNA-the latter often protected within epididymis- or prostate-derived extracellular vesicles. It is beyond question that the SP participates in diverse aspects of sperm function pre-fertilization events. The SP also interacts with the various compartments of the tubular genital tract, triggering changes in gene function that prepares for an eventual successful pregnancy; thus, it ultimately modulates fertility. Despite these concepts, it is imperative to remember that SP-free spermatozoa (epididymal or washed ejaculated) are still fertile, so this review shall focus on the differences between the in vivo roles of the SP following semen deposition in the female and those regarding additions of SP on spermatozoa handled for artificial reproduction, including cryopreservation, from artificial insemination to in vitro fertilization. This review attempts, including our own results on model animal species, to critically summarize the current knowledge of the reproductive roles played by SP components, particularly in our own species, which is increasingly affected by infertility. The ultimate goal is to reconcile the delicate balance between the SP molecular concentration and their concerted effects after temporal exposure in vivo. We aim to appraise the functions of the SP components, their relevance as diagnostic biomarkers and their value as eventual additives to refine reproductive strategies, including biotechnologies, in livestock models and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-132-869-25
| | - Emilio A. Martinez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (E.A.M.); (J.R.)
| | - Juan J. Calvete
- Laboratorio de Venómica Estructural y Funcional, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, C.S.I.C., 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Fernando J. Peña Vega
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, 10003 Caceres, Spain;
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (E.A.M.); (J.R.)
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19
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Ali MA, Wang Y, Qin Z, Yuan X, Zhang Y, Zeng C. Odorant and Taste Receptors in Sperm Chemotaxis and Cryopreservation: Roles and Implications in Sperm Capacitation, Motility and Fertility. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12040488. [PMID: 33801624 PMCID: PMC8065900 DOI: 10.3390/genes12040488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm chemotaxis, which guide sperm toward oocyte, is tightly associated with sperm capacitation, motility, and fertility. However, the molecular mechanism of sperm chemotaxis is not known. Reproductive odorant and taste receptors, belong to G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) super-family, cause an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration which is pre-requisite for sperm capacitation and acrosomal reaction, and result in sperm hyperpolarization and increase motility through activation of Ca2+-dependent Cl¯ channels. Recently, odorant receptors (ORs) in olfactory transduction pathway were thought to be associated with post-thaw sperm motility, freeze tolerance or freezability and cryo-capacitation-like change during cryopreservation. Investigation of the roles of odorant and taste receptors (TRs) is important for our understanding of the freeze tolerance or freezability mechanism and improve the motility and fertility of post-thaw sperm. Here, we reviewed the roles, mode of action, impact of odorant and taste receptors on sperm chemotaxis and post-thaw sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malik Ahsan Ali
- College of Animal Science and Technology and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China; (Y.W.); (Z.Q.); (X.Y.); (Y.Z.)
- Department of Theriogenology, Riphah College of Veterinary Sciences, Lahore 54000, Punjab, Pakistan;
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Yihan Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China; (Y.W.); (Z.Q.); (X.Y.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Ziyue Qin
- College of Animal Science and Technology and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China; (Y.W.); (Z.Q.); (X.Y.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Xiang Yuan
- College of Animal Science and Technology and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China; (Y.W.); (Z.Q.); (X.Y.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Yan Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China; (Y.W.); (Z.Q.); (X.Y.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Changjun Zeng
- College of Animal Science and Technology and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China; (Y.W.); (Z.Q.); (X.Y.); (Y.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +86-28-86291010
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20
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Mei S, Chen P, Lee CL, Zhao W, Wang Y, Lam KKW, Ho PC, Yeung WSB, Fang C, Chiu PCN. The role of galectin-3 in spermatozoa-zona pellucida binding and its association with fertilization in vitro. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 25:458-470. [PMID: 31194867 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaz030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human spermatozoa can fertilize an oocyte only after post-testicular maturation and capacitation. These processes involve dynamic modification and reorganization of the sperm plasma membrane, which allow them to bind to the zona pellucida (ZP) of the oocyte. Defective sperm-ZP binding is one of the major causes of male subfertility. Galectin-3 is a secretory lectin in human seminal plasma well known for its action on cell adhesion. The aim of this study was to determine the role of galectin-3 in spermatozoa-ZP interaction and its association with fertilization rate in clinical assisted reproduction. Our studies revealed that the acrosomal region of ejaculated and capacitated spermatozoa possess strong galectin-3 immunoreactivity, which is much stronger than that of epididymal spermatozoa. Expression of galectin-3 can also be detected on seminal plasma-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) and can be transferred to the sperm surface. Blocking of sperm surface galectin-3 function by antibody or carbohydrate substrate reduced the ZP-binding capacity of spermatozoa. Purified galectin-3 is capable of binding to ZP, indicating that galectin-3 may serve as a cross-linking bridge between ZP glycans and sperm surface glycoproteins. Galectin-3 levels in seminal plasma-derived EVs were positively associated with fertilization rates. These results suggest that galectin-3 in EVs is transferred to the sperm surface during post-testicular maturation and plays a crucial role in spermatozoa-ZP binding after capacitation. Reduced galectin-3 expression in seminal plasma-derived EVs may be a cause behind a low fertilization rate. Further studies with more clinical samples are required to confirm the relationship between galectin-3 levels and IVF outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Mei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Panyu Chen
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hostpital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weie Zhao
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Kevin K W Lam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hostpital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Pak-Chung Ho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hostpital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hostpital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cong Fang
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hostpital, Shenzhen, China
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21
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Vignesh K, Murugavel K, Antoine D, Prakash MA, Saraf KK, Nag P, Karuthadurai T, Kumaresan A. The proportion of tyrosine phosphorylated spermatozoa in cryopreserved semen is negatively related to crossbred bull fertility. Theriogenology 2020; 149:46-54. [PMID: 32234650 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sub-fertility is a major problem in crossbred bulls. Identification of subtle differences in the quality of cryopreserved spermatozoa among bulls belonging to different fertility rankings would help determine the latent fertility of semen before their use at field conditions. In the present study, we assessed the status of tyrosine phosphorylation, membrane integrity and acrosome reaction of cryopreserved spermatozoa in crossbred bulls (n = 22) with different levels of field fertility and assessed their relationship with fertility. Bulls were categorized into above-average (n = 4), average (n = 14) and below-average (n = 4) based on their different field fertility rates. The progressive sperm motility was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in above-average fertile bulls compared to either average or below-average fertile bulls whereas sperm membrane integrity and acrosomal reaction status did not differ among the three groups. The proportion of live tyrosine-phosphorylated spermatozoa were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in below-average and average fertile bulls compared to above-average bulls. Immunolocalization of protein tyrosine phosphorylation in spermatozoa revealed that the proportion of spermatozoa showing tyrosine phosphorylation at acrosome and post-acrosomal area (APA) and at acrosome, post-acrosome and tail (APAT) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in below-average fertile bulls than other groups. The APA pattern (r = -0.605; P < 0.01) and APAT (r = 0.507; P < 0.05) pattern were significantly and negatively correlated with bull fertility. It was concluded that the proportion of live tyrosine-phosphorylated spermatozoa in cryopreserved semen was negatively related to bull fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kolanjiyappan Vignesh
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research, Kurumbapet, Puducherry, 605 009, India
| | - Kailasam Murugavel
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research, Kurumbapet, Puducherry, 605 009, India
| | - Dourey Antoine
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research, Kurumbapet, Puducherry, 605 009, India
| | - Mani Arul Prakash
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, 560030, Karnataka, India
| | - Kausthub Kishore Saraf
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, 560030, Karnataka, India
| | - Pradeep Nag
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, 560030, Karnataka, India
| | - Thirumalaisamy Karuthadurai
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, 560030, Karnataka, India
| | - Arumugam Kumaresan
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, 560030, Karnataka, India.
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22
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Bernardino RL, Carrageta DF, Sousa M, Alves MG, Oliveira PF. pH and male fertility: making sense on pH homeodynamics throughout the male reproductive tract. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:3783-3800. [PMID: 31165202 PMCID: PMC11105638 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03170-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In the male reproductive tract, ionic equilibrium is essential to maintain normal spermatozoa production and, hence, the reproductive potential. Among the several ions, HCO3- and H+ have a central role, mainly due to their role on pH homeostasis. In the male reproductive tract, the major players in pH regulation and homeodynamics are carbonic anhydrases (CAs), HCO3- membrane transporters (solute carrier 4-SLC4 and solute carrier 26-SLC26 family transporters), Na+-H+ exchangers (NHEs), monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) and voltage-gated proton channels (Hv1). CAs and these membrane transporters are widely distributed throughout the male reproductive tract, where they play essential roles in the ionic balance of tubular fluids. CAs are the enzymes responsible for the production of HCO3- which is then transported by membrane transporters to ensure the maturation, storage, and capacitation of the spermatozoa. The transport of H+ is carried out by NHEs, Hv1, and MCTs and is essential for the electrochemical balance and for the maintenance of the pH within the physiological limits along the male reproductive tract. Alterations in HCO3- production and transport of ions have been associated with some male reproductive dysfunctions. Herein, we present an up-to-date review on the distribution and role of the main intervenient on pH homeodynamics in the fluids throughout the male reproductive tract. In addition, we discuss their relevance for the establishment of the male reproductive potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel L Bernardino
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - David F Carrageta
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mário Sousa
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- i3S-Institute for Innovation and Health Research, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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23
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Comparative Analysis of MicroRNA and mRNA Profiles of Sperm with Different Freeze Tolerance Capacities in Boar ( Sus scrofa) and Giant Panda ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca). Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9090432. [PMID: 31480517 PMCID: PMC6769438 DOI: 10.3390/biom9090432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-thawed sperm quality parameters vary across different species after cryopreservation. To date, the molecular mechanism of sperm cryoinjury, freeze-tolerance and other influential factors are largely unknown. In this study, significantly dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) and mRNAs in boar and giant panda sperm with different cryo-resistance capacity were evaluated. From the result of miRNA profile of fresh and frozen-thawed giant panda sperm, a total of 899 mature, novel miRNAs were identified, and 284 miRNAs were found to be significantly dysregulated (195 up-regulated and 89 down-regulated). Combined analysis of miRNA profiling of giant panda sperm and our previously published data on boar sperm, 46, 21 and 4 differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs in boar sperm were believed to be related to apoptosis, glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, respectively. Meanwhile, 87, 17 and 7 DE mRNAs in giant panda were associated with apoptosis, glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, respectively. Gene ontology (GO) analysis of the targets of DE miRNAs showed that they were mainly distributed on membrane related pathway in giant panda sperm, while cell components and cell processes were tied to the targets of DE miRNAs in boar sperm. Finally, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis of DE mRNAs indicated that most of these DE mRNAs were distributed in membrane signal transduction-related pathways in giant panda sperm, while those in boar sperm were mainly distributed in the cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway and inflammatory related pathways. In conclusion, although the different freezing extenders and programs were used, the DE miRNAs and mRNAs involved in apoptosis, energy metabolism, olfactory transduction pathway, inflammatory response and cytokine-cytokine interactions, could be the possible molecular mechanism of sperm cryoinjury and freeze tolerance.
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24
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Hernández-Silva G, Fabián López-Araiza JE, López-Torres AS, Larrea F, Torres-Flores V, Chirinos M. Proteomic characterization of human sperm plasma membrane-associated proteins and their role in capacitation. Andrology 2019; 8:171-180. [PMID: 31002753 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasma membranes of ejaculated sperm are covered by epididymal and accessory glands secreted proteins that must be released from sperm surface during the female reproductive tract passage in order to capacitate and fertilize the oocyte. OBJECTIVES As human sperm plasma membrane-associated proteins (SMAP) have not yet been investigated, the aim of this study was to characterize the SMAP released during in vitro human capacitation and to study their possible role as decapacitation factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS SMAP were characterized by 2-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry analysis. Besides, we explored SMAP effects on motility, protein tyrosine phosphorylation, and calcium ionophore-induced acrosome reaction of spermatozoa either incubated for 6 h in capacitating medium ± SMAP or for 5 h in capacitating medium alone followed by incubation for 1 h ± SMAP. RESULTS Mass spectrometry analysis allowed the identification of 29 proteins, all of which have previously been identified in the human seminal fluid. Spermatozoa incubated for 6 h under capacitating conditions in the presence of the SMAP showed a significant decrease in the incidence of non-progressive motility, hyperactivation, protein tyrosine phosphorylation, and calcium ionophore-induced acrosome reaction. However, spermatozoa incubated for 5 h in capacitating medium and further incubated for 1 h with the SMAP showed a lower percentage of spermatozoa with non-progressive motility and hyperactivated cells but no effects on protein tyrosine phosphorylation were detected. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that SMAP inhibit the progress of human sperm capacitation, but only motility changes related to capacitation may be reversed by these proteins. The study of the identified proteins on sperm function and their mechanisms of action on this cell may contribute to the understanding of their role during capacitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Hernández-Silva
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, México.,Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | | | - Aideé Saray López-Torres
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Fernando Larrea
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Víctor Torres-Flores
- Laboratorio de Biomembranas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Mayel Chirinos
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, México
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25
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Samanta L, Parida R, Dias TR, Agarwal A. The enigmatic seminal plasma: a proteomics insight from ejaculation to fertilization. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:41. [PMID: 29704899 PMCID: PMC5923003 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0358-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 'omics' approach for a noninvasive diagnosis of male reproductive system disorders has gained momentum during the last decade, particularly from a screening and prognosis point of view. Due to the rapid development in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) over the years, the major focus of proteomic studies has been around the ejaculated spermatozoa. Although seminal plasma is not a requirement for ART, the question arose whether the role of seminal plasma is merely to transport spermatozoa. MAIN BODY Seminal plasma (SP) contains a large diversity of proteins that are essential not only for sperm transport, but also for sperm protection and maturation. Most of the proteins bind to sperm surface through exosomes (epididymosomes and prostasomes), modulating sperm function, interaction with the female reproductive tract and finally fertilization. This review focuses on the state-of-art discoveries regarding SP proteome and its role in fertilization. CONCLUSION Tissue-specific proteins in the SP have emerged as fundamental contributors for protein biomarker discovery. This is important for a noninvasive diagnosis of male infertility and development of new therapeutic approaches. Moreover, ART success rates may be improved by taking into account the critical role of seminal proteome in fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luna Samanta
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Desk X11, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
- Redox Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, Odisha, 753003, India
| | - Rajeshwari Parida
- Redox Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, Odisha, 753003, India
| | - Tania R Dias
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Desk X11, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
- Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
- LAQV/REQUIMTE - Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Desk X11, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.
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26
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Karan P, Mohanty TK, Kumaresan A, Bhakat M, Baithalu RK, Verma K, Kumar S, Das Gupta M, Saraf KK, Gahlot SC. Improvement in sperm functional competence through modified low‐dose packaging in French mini straws of bull semen. Andrologia 2018; 50:e13003. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- P. Karan
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre ICAR‐National Dairy Research Institute Karnal Haryana India
| | - T. K. Mohanty
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre ICAR‐National Dairy Research Institute Karnal Haryana India
| | - A. Kumaresan
- Veterinary Gynecology and Obstetrics ICAR‐National Dairy Research Institute Karnal Haryana India
| | - M. Bhakat
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre ICAR‐National Dairy Research Institute Karnal Haryana India
| | - R. K. Baithalu
- Veterinary Gynecology and Obstetrics ICAR‐National Dairy Research Institute Karnal Haryana India
| | - K. Verma
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre ICAR‐National Dairy Research Institute Karnal Haryana India
| | - S. Kumar
- Veterinary Gynecology and Obstetrics ICAR‐National Dairy Research Institute Karnal Haryana India
| | - M. Das Gupta
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre ICAR‐National Dairy Research Institute Karnal Haryana India
| | - K. K. Saraf
- Veterinary Gynecology and Obstetrics ICAR‐National Dairy Research Institute Karnal Haryana India
| | - S. C. Gahlot
- Veterinary Gynecology and Obstetrics ICAR‐National Dairy Research Institute Karnal Haryana India
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27
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Ferré LB, Bogliotti Y, Chitwood JL, Fresno C, Ortega HH, Kjelland ME, Ross PJ. Effect of spermatozoa motility hyperactivation factors and gamete coincubation duration on in vitro bovine embryo development using flow cytometrically sorted spermatozoa. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:805-814. [DOI: 10.1071/rd15289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of sperm motility enhancers and different IVF times on cleavage, polyspermy, blastocyst formation, embryo quality and hatching ability. In Experiment 1, sex-sorted X chromosome-bearing Bos taurus spermatozoa were incubated for 30 min before 18 h fertilisation with hyperactivating factors, namely 10 mM caffeine (CA), 5 mM theophylline (TH), 10 mM caffeine and 5 mM theophylline (CA + TH); and untreated spermatozoa (control). In Experiment 2, matured B. taurus oocytes were fertilised using a short (8 h) or standard (18 h) fertilisation length, comparing two different fertilisation media, namely synthetic oviducal fluid (SOF) fertilisation medium (SOF-FERT) and M199 fertilisation medium (M199-FERT). Cleavage and blastocyst formation rates were significantly higher in the CA + TH group (77% and 27%, respectively) compared with the control group (71% and 21%, respectively). Cleavage rates and blastocyst formation were significantly lower for the shortest fertilisation time (8 h) in M199-FERT medium (42% and 12%, respectively). The SOF-FERT medium with an 8 h fertilisation time resulted in the highest cleavage rates and blastocyst formation (74% and 29%, respectively). The SOF-FERT medium produced the highest embryo quality (50% Grade 1) and hatching rate (66%). Motility enhancers did not affect polyspermy rates, whereas polyspermy was affected when fertilisation length was extended from 8 h (3%) to 18 h (9%) and in M199-FERT (14%) compared with SOF-FERT (6%). We conclude that adding the motility enhancers CA and TH to sex sorted spermatozoa and Tyrode’s albumin lactate pyruvate (TALP)-Sperm can improve cleavage and embryo development rates without increasing polyspermy. In addition, shortening the oocyte–sperm coincubation time (8 h) resulted in similar overall embryo performance rates compared with the prolonged (18 h) interval.
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28
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Rahamim Ben-Navi L, Almog T, Yao Z, Seger R, Naor Z. A-Kinase Anchoring Protein 4 (AKAP4) is an ERK1/2 substrate and a switch molecule between cAMP/PKA and PKC/ERK1/2 in human spermatozoa. Sci Rep 2016; 6:37922. [PMID: 27901058 PMCID: PMC5128789 DOI: 10.1038/srep37922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatozoa undergo capacitation and acrosome reaction in order to fertilize the egg. The PKC-ERK1/2 pathway plays an important role in human spermatozoa motility, capacitation and the acrosome reaction. Here we demonstrate that ERK1/2 phosphorylates proAKAP4 on Thr265 in human spermatozoa in vitro and in vivo. Cyclic AMP (cAMP) had no effect on ERK1/2 activity in human spermatozoa, but stimulated the MAPK in mouse pituitary LβT2 gonadotrope cells. cAMP via PKA attenuates PKC-dependent ERK1/2 activation only in the presence of proAKAP4. St-HT31, which disrupts PKA-regulatory subunit II (PKA-RII) binding to AKAP abrogates the inhibitory effect of cAMP in human spermatozoa and in HEK293T cells expressing proAKAP4. In transfected HEK293T cells, PMA relocated proAKAP4, but not proAKAP4-T265A to the Golgi in an ERK1/2-dependnet manner. Similarly, AKAP4 is localized to the spermatozoa principal piece and is relocated to the mid-piece and the postacrosomal region by PMA. Furthermore, using capacitated sperm we found that cAMP reduced PMA-induced ERK1/2 activation and acrosome reaction. Thus, the physiological role of the negative crosstalk between the cAMP/PKA/AKAP4 and the PKC/ERK1/2 pathways is to regulate capacitation and acrosome reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liat Rahamim Ben-Navi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Tal Almog
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Zhong Yao
- Department of Biological Regulation, the Weizmann Institute of Science Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Rony Seger
- Department of Biological Regulation, the Weizmann Institute of Science Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Zvi Naor
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Israel
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29
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Milk proteins interact with goat Binder of SPerm (BSP) proteins and decrease their binding to sperm. Cell Tissue Res 2016; 366:427-442. [PMID: 27432314 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-016-2438-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Seminal plasma Binder of SPerm (BSP) proteins bind to sperm at ejaculation and promote capacitation. When in excess, however, BSP proteins damage the sperm membrane. It has been suggested that milk components of semen extenders associate with BSP proteins, potentially protecting sperm. Thus, this study was conducted to investigate if milk proteins interact with BSP proteins and reduce BSP binding to goat sperm. Using gel filtration chromatography, milk was incubated with goat seminal plasma proteins and loaded onto columns with and without calcium. Milk was also fractionated into parts containing mostly whey proteins or mostly caseins, incubated with seminal plasma proteins and subjected to gel filtration. Eluted fractions were evaluated by immunoblot using anti-goat BSP antibodies, confirming milk protein-BSP protein interactions. As determined by ELISA, milk proteins coated on polystyrene wells bound to increasing of goat BSP proteins. Far-western dot blots confirmed that BSP proteins bound to caseins and β-lactoglobulin in a concentration-dependent manner. Then, cauda epididymal sperm from five goats was incubated with seminal plasma; seminal plasma followed by milk; and milk followed by seminal plasma. Sperm membrane proteins were extracted and evaluated by immunoblotting. The pattern of BSP binding to sperm membrane proteins was reduced by 59.3 % when epididymal sperm were incubated with seminal plasma and then with skimmed milk (p < 0.05). When epididymal sperm were treated with milk followed by seminal plasma, coating of sperm with BSP proteins was not significantly reduced (57.6 %; p > 0.05). In conclusion, goat BSP proteins have an affinity for caseins and whey proteins. Milk reduces BSP binding to goat sperm, depending whether or not sperm had been previously exposed to seminal plasma. Such events may explain the protective effect of milk during goat sperm preservation.
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30
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Niksirat H, Vancová M, Andersson L, James P, Kouba A, Kozák P. Protein modification in the post-mating spermatophore of the signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus: insight into the tyrosine phosphorylation in a non-motile spermatozoon. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 172:123-30. [PMID: 27481552 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Revised: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
After mating, spermatophores of signal crayfish are stored on the body of the female for a period before fertilization. This study compared the post-mating protein profile and pattern of protein tyrosine phosphorylation of the signal crayfish spermatophore to that of the freshly ejaculated spermatophore and found substantial differences. Two major bands of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins of molecular weights 10 and 50kDa were observed in the freshly ejaculated spermatophore of the signal crayfish. While the tyrosine-phosphorylated protein band with molecular weight 10kDa was formed by protein(s) of similar pH, the band with molecular weight of 50kDa consisted of proteins of varying pH. In the post-mating spermatophore, the band with molecular weight of 50kDa was not detected, and an increase in the level of protein tyrosine phosphorylation was observed in the 10kDa band. The microtubular radial arms of the spermatozoon showed a positive reaction to an anti-tyrosine antibody conjugated with gold particles in both the freshly ejaculated and post-mating spermatophores. In conclusion, the male gamete of the signal crayfish undergoes molecular modification during post-mating storage on the body of the female including changes in the level of protein expression and protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Structural similarity of the radial arms in the crayfish immotile spermatozoon with flagellum, which is the main site of protein tyrosine phosphorylation in the mammalian motile spermatozoa, raises questions regarding evolution and function of such organelles across the animal kingdom that must be addressed in the future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Niksirat
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, Zátiší 728/II, 38925 Vodňany, Czech Republic.
| | - Marie Vancová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the ASCR and Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Branišovská 31, České Budějovice 37005, Czech Republic
| | - Liselotte Andersson
- Department of Immunotechnology, Hus 406, Medicon Village, Lund University, 22381, Lund, Sweden
| | - Peter James
- Department of Immunotechnology, Hus 406, Medicon Village, Lund University, 22381, Lund, Sweden
| | - Antonín Kouba
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, Zátiší 728/II, 38925 Vodňany, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Kozák
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, Zátiší 728/II, 38925 Vodňany, Czech Republic
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Santana PPB, da Silva BB, Silva TVG, Costa NN, Cordeiro MS, Santos SSD, Ohashi OM, Miranda MS. Addition of L-arginine to the fertilization medium enhances subsequent bovine embryo development rates. Theriogenology 2016; 85:1132-8. [PMID: 26733119 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Revised: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 11/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Although L-Arginine (ARG) has been reported as a promising bovine sperm capacitation agent, its effects on embryo development are still poorly understood. Herein, we compared the effects of ARG and/or heparin (HEP) addition to the fertilization medium for bovine oocytes on sperm capacitation and embryo development. We chose 10 mM ARG based on blastocyst development rates in a titration experiment. Addition of ARG and/or HEP to the fertilization medium resulted in similar rates of blastocyst development (P > 0.05). However, when ARG, but not HEP, was combined with a nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor (N-Nitro-L-ARG-methyl ester, 10 mM) blastocyst development was decreased (P < 0.05). To assess the effects on capacitation, bovine sperm were incubated for 0, 3, and 6 hours in fertilization medium containing ARG and/or HEP and/or N-Nitro-L-ARG-methyl esterand acrosomal exocytosis rates were evaluated using fluorescein isothiocyanate conjugated Pisum sativum lectin (FITC-PSA) staining and flow cytometry. With HEP, acrosomal exocytosis rates were highest by 3 hours of incubation; however, by 6 hours, rates were similar for HEP and/or ARG (P > 0.05) and higher than those in control media (P < 0.05). Although both ARG and HEP increased sperm NO production (P < 0.05), combination with L-NAME only precluded acrosomal exocytosis when ARG added alone in the medium (P > 0.05). These results suggest that although both ARG and HEP supported sperm capacitation, only the effects of the former were driven via NO production. Moreover, ARG was also as effective as HEP at improving blastocyst development rates. Therefore, ARG may be used as a low-cost alternative sperm capacitation agent for bovine in vitro embryo production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila P B Santana
- Department of Biology, Federal Rural University of Amazon, Capitão-Poço, Pará, Brazil.
| | - Bruno B da Silva
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Thiago V G Silva
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Nathalia N Costa
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Marcela S Cordeiro
- Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Pará, Castanhal, Pará, Brazil
| | - Simone S D Santos
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Otávio M Ohashi
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Moysés S Miranda
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
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Chikhoune A, Stouvenel L, Iguer-Ouada M, Hazzit M, Schmitt A, Lorès P, Wolf JP, Aissat K, Auger J, Vaiman D, Touré A. In-vitro effects of Thymus munbyanus essential oil and thymol on human sperm motility and function. Reprod Biomed Online 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Tyrosine phosphorylation of cytochrome c as a signaling event in frozen thawed buffalo spermatozoa at the cross-roads of capacitation and apoptosis. Cryobiology 2015; 70:253-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2015.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Revised: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Yang X, Zhao Y, Yang X, Kan FWK. Recombinant hamster oviductin is biologically active and exerts positive effects on sperm functions and sperm-oocyte binding. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0123003. [PMID: 25849110 PMCID: PMC4388664 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0123003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 02/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies carried out in several mammalian species suggest that oviductin, also known as oviduct-specific glycoprotein or OVGP1, plays a key role in sperm capacitation, fertilization, and development of early embryos. In the present study, we used recombinant DNA technology to produce, for the first time, recombinant hamster OVGP1 (rHamOVGP1) in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells. rHamOVGP1 secreted in the culture medium was purified by affinity chromatography. The resulting protein migrated as a poly-dispersed band of 160-350 kDa on SDS-PAGE corresponding to the molecular mass of the native HamOVGP1. Subsequent mass spectrometric analysis of the purified rHamOVGP1 confirmed its identity as HamOVGP1. Immunocytochemistry demonstrated binding of rHamOVGP1 to the mid-piece and head of hamster sperm and to the zona pellucida (ZP) of ovarian oocytes. In vitro functional experiments showed that addition of rHamOVGP1 in the capacitation medium further enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation of two sperm proteins of approximately 75 kDa and 83 kDa in a time-dependent manner. After 3 hours of incubation in the presence of rHamOVGP1, a significant increase in acrosome reaction was measured. Pretreatment of either sperm or oocyte with 20 μg/ml of rHamOVGP1 prior to sperm-egg binding assay significantly increased the number of sperm bound to the ZP. Addition of rHamOVGP1 in the medium during sperm-egg binding with either oocyte or sperm pretreated with rHamOVGP1 also saw an increase in the number of sperm bound to ZP. In all experimental conditions, the effect of rHamOVGP1 on sperm-oocyte binding was negated by the addition of monoclonal anti-HamOVGP1 antibody. The successful production and purification of a biologically active rHamOVGP1 will allow further exploration of the function of this glycoprotein in reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Yang
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yuewen Zhao
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Xiaolong Yang
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Frederick W. K. Kan
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Naresh S, Atreja SK. The protein tyrosine phosphorylation during in vitro capacitation and cryopreservation of mammalian spermatozoa. Cryobiology 2015; 70:211-6. [PMID: 25828199 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2015.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2015] [Revised: 03/07/2015] [Accepted: 03/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Before the process of fertilization, spermatozoa necessitate a period of residence in the female reproductive environment, and undergo a sequence of physiological and biochemical changes collectively referred to as capacitation. Accumulated evidences from several laboratories indicated that the protein tyrosine phosphorylation (PTP) is one of the most important intracellular signaling events regulating sperm function, and is a meaningful indicator of capacitation. Different factors that affect PTP are cholesterol efflux, influx of HCO3(-), increased intracellular Ca(2+), cAMP and reactive oxygen species (ROS). cAMP/PKA and extracellular signal regulated kinases (ERKs) are the known important signaling pathways primarily involved in PTP. Advanced proteomics approaches have revealed several proteins that undergo tyrosine phosphorylation during capacitation. Semen cryopreservation subjects spermatozoa to frequent stressors, which result in capacitation like changes (cryo-capacitation). The cryo-capacitated spermatozoa usually show different patterns of PTP than the normal in vitro capacitated spermatozoa. In the current manuscript, we have summarized some information about the proteins undergoing tyrosine phosphorylation during capacitation and the effect of cryopreservation on PTP as well as the possibilities to reduce the changes associated with cryopreservation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Naresh
- Reproductive Biochemistry Laboratory, Animal Biochemistry Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana 132001, India.
| | - Suresh Kumar Atreja
- Reproductive Biochemistry Laboratory, Animal Biochemistry Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana 132001, India.
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Effect of dilution rate on feline urethral sperm motility, viability, and DNA integrity. Theriogenology 2014; 82:1273-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Revised: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Buffone MG, Wertheimer EV, Visconti PE, Krapf D. Central role of soluble adenylyl cyclase and cAMP in sperm physiology. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2014; 1842:2610-20. [PMID: 25066614 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2014.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2014] [Revised: 07/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP), the first second messenger to be described, plays a central role in cell signaling in a wide variety of cell types. Over the last decades, a wide body of literature addressed the different roles of cAMP in cell physiology, mainly in response to neurotransmitters and hormones. cAMP is synthesized by a wide variety of adenylyl cyclases that can generally be grouped in two types: transmembrane adenylyl cyclase and soluble adenylyl cyclases. In particular, several aspects of sperm physiology are regulated by cAMP produced by a single atypical adenylyl cyclase (Adcy10, aka sAC, SACY). The signature that identifies sAC among other ACs, is their direct stimulation by bicarbonate. The essential nature of cAMP in sperm function has been demonstrated using gain of function as well as loss of function approaches. This review unifies state of the art knowledge of the role of cAMP and those enzymes involved in cAMP signaling pathways required for the acquisition of fertilizing capacity of mammalian sperm. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The role of soluble adenylyl cyclase in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariano G Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, National Research Council of Argentina (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eva V Wertheimer
- Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, ISB, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA.
| | - Dario Krapf
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (CONICET), UNR, Rosario, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, UNR, Rosario, Argentina
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Katoh Y, Takebayashi K, Kikuchi A, Iki A, Kikuchi K, Tamba M, Kawashima A, Matsuda M, Okamura N. Porcine sperm capacitation involves tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of aldose reductase. Reproduction 2014; 148:389-401. [PMID: 25049426 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian sperm must be activated in the tubal isthmus through capacitation to induce the acrosome reaction and subsequent fertilization. Although the molecular mechanisms involved in capacitation have yet to be fully elucidated, increased concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the extent of tyrosine phosphorylation of proteins have been suggested to play central roles in the completion of capacitation. In this study, aldose reductase was for the first time identified as one of the tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins involved in the capacitation of porcine cauda epididymal sperm. Both tyrosine phosphorylation and activity of aldose reductase associated with the particulate fraction of sperm cells were significantly enhanced during capacitation. Alrestatin, a membrane-permeable and specific inhibitor of aldose reductase, plays a role in the inhibition of aldose reductase activity, elevation of intracellular levels of ROS, and induction of hyperactivated motility, all at similar dose dependencies. Alrestatin canceled both the increase in the tyrosine phosphorylation of aldose reductase and the decrease in the glutathione levels in sperm-induced during capacitation. The hyperactivated motility was induced to a higher extent in the presence of glucose than in the presence of fructose. These results indicate that aldose reductase plays an important role in induction of hyperactivation and capacitation of sperm through the elevation of ROS in sperm cells. Furthermore, aldose reductase was shown to be added to sperm during transit through the epididymis, suggesting that aldose reductase is one of the key proteins that support the functional maturation of sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Katoh
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human SciencesUniversity of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, JapanCenter for Humanities and SciencesIbaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ami 4669-2, Ami, Ibaraki 300-0394, JapanDivision of Animal SciencesNational Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8602, JapanGraduate School of ScienceUniversity of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan Graduate School of Comprehensive Human SciencesUniversity of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, JapanCenter for Humanities and SciencesIbaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ami 4669-2, Ami, Ibaraki 300-0394, JapanDivision of Animal SciencesNational Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8602, JapanGraduate School of ScienceUniversity of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Kohsuke Takebayashi
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human SciencesUniversity of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, JapanCenter for Humanities and SciencesIbaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ami 4669-2, Ami, Ibaraki 300-0394, JapanDivision of Animal SciencesNational Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8602, JapanGraduate School of ScienceUniversity of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Akihiko Kikuchi
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human SciencesUniversity of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, JapanCenter for Humanities and SciencesIbaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ami 4669-2, Ami, Ibaraki 300-0394, JapanDivision of Animal SciencesNational Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8602, JapanGraduate School of ScienceUniversity of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Ayumi Iki
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human SciencesUniversity of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, JapanCenter for Humanities and SciencesIbaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ami 4669-2, Ami, Ibaraki 300-0394, JapanDivision of Animal SciencesNational Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8602, JapanGraduate School of ScienceUniversity of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Kikuchi
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human SciencesUniversity of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, JapanCenter for Humanities and SciencesIbaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ami 4669-2, Ami, Ibaraki 300-0394, JapanDivision of Animal SciencesNational Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8602, JapanGraduate School of ScienceUniversity of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Michiko Tamba
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human SciencesUniversity of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, JapanCenter for Humanities and SciencesIbaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ami 4669-2, Ami, Ibaraki 300-0394, JapanDivision of Animal SciencesNational Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8602, JapanGraduate School of ScienceUniversity of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Akihiro Kawashima
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human SciencesUniversity of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, JapanCenter for Humanities and SciencesIbaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ami 4669-2, Ami, Ibaraki 300-0394, JapanDivision of Animal SciencesNational Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8602, JapanGraduate School of ScienceUniversity of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Manabu Matsuda
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human SciencesUniversity of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, JapanCenter for Humanities and SciencesIbaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ami 4669-2, Ami, Ibaraki 300-0394, JapanDivision of Animal SciencesNational Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8602, JapanGraduate School of ScienceUniversity of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Naomichi Okamura
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human SciencesUniversity of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, JapanCenter for Humanities and SciencesIbaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ami 4669-2, Ami, Ibaraki 300-0394, JapanDivision of Animal SciencesNational Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8602, JapanGraduate School of ScienceUniversity of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan Graduate School of Comprehensive Human SciencesUniversity of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, JapanCenter for Humanities and SciencesIbaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ami 4669-2, Ami, Ibaraki 300-0394, JapanDivision of Animal SciencesNational Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8602, JapanGraduate School of ScienceUniversity of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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Pons-Rejraji H, Brugnon F, Sion B, Maqdasy S, Gouby G, Pereira B, Marceau G, Gremeau AS, Drevet J, Grizard G, Janny L, Tauveron I. Evaluation of atorvastatin efficacy and toxicity on spermatozoa, accessory glands and gonadal hormones of healthy men: a pilot prospective clinical trial. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2014; 12:65. [PMID: 25016482 PMCID: PMC4114109 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-12-65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 07/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recommendations for cardiovascular disease prevention advocate lowering both cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol systemic levels, notably by statin intake. However, statins are the subject of questions concerning their impact on male fertility. This study aimed to evaluate, by a prospective pilot assay, the efficacy and the toxicity of a decrease of cholesterol blood levels, induced by atorvastatin on semen quality and sexual hormone levels of healthy, normocholesterolaemic and normozoospermic men. METHODS Atorvastatin (10 mg daily) was administrated orally during 5 months to 17 men with normal plasma lipid and standard semen parameters. Spermatozoa parameters, accessory gland markers, semen lipid levels and blood levels of gonadal hormones were assayed before statin intake, during the treatment, and 3 months after its withdrawal. RESULTS Atorvastatin treatment significantly decreased circulating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and total cholesterol concentrations by 42% and 24% (p<0.0001) respectively, and reached the efficacy objective of the protocol. During atorvastatin therapy and/or 3 months after its withdrawal numerous semen parameters were significantly modified, such as total number of spermatozoa (-31%, p<0.05), vitality (-9.5%, p<0.05), total motility (+7.5%, p<0.05), morphology (head, neck and midpiece abnormalities, p<0.05), and the kinetics of acrosome reaction (p<0.05). Seminal concentrations of acid phosphatases (p<0.01), α-glucosidase (p<0.05) and L-carnitine (p<0.05) were also decreased during the therapy, indicating an alteration of prostatic and epididymal functions. Moreover, we measured at least one altered semen parameter in 35% of the subjects during atorvastatin treatment, and in 65% of the subjects after withdrawal, which led us to consider that atorvastatin is unsafe in the context of our study. CONCLUSIONS Our results show for the first time that atorvastatin significantly affects the sperm parameters and the seminal fluid composition of healthy men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanae Pons-Rejraji
- CHU Clermont Ferrand, Laboratoire de BDR: AMP-CECOS, F-63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- GReD, UMR CNRS 6293 INSERM U1103, Clermont Université, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Florence Brugnon
- CHU Clermont Ferrand, Laboratoire de BDR: AMP-CECOS, F-63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- GReD, UMR CNRS 6293 INSERM U1103, Clermont Université, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Benoit Sion
- Pharmacologie Fondamentale et Clinique de la Douleur, France Inserm, U 1107, Neuro-Dol, Clermont Université, Université d’Auvergne, F-63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Salwan Maqdasy
- GReD, UMR CNRS 6293 INSERM U1103, Clermont Université, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Service d’Endocrinologie-Diabétologie, F-63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Gerald Gouby
- CHU de Clermont-Ferrand, Délégation à la Recherche Clinique et à l’Innovation (DRCI), F-63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Bruno Pereira
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Biostatistics unit, DRCI, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Geoffroy Marceau
- GReD, UMR CNRS 6293 INSERM U1103, Clermont Université, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Laboratoire de Biochimie, F-63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Gremeau
- CHU Clermont Ferrand, Laboratoire de BDR: AMP-CECOS, F-63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Joel Drevet
- GReD, UMR CNRS 6293 INSERM U1103, Clermont Université, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Pharmacologie Fondamentale et Clinique de la Douleur, France Inserm, U 1107, Neuro-Dol, Clermont Université, Université d’Auvergne, F-63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Genevieve Grizard
- CHU Clermont Ferrand, Laboratoire de BDR: AMP-CECOS, F-63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Laurent Janny
- CHU Clermont Ferrand, Laboratoire de BDR: AMP-CECOS, F-63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- GReD, UMR CNRS 6293 INSERM U1103, Clermont Université, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Igor Tauveron
- GReD, UMR CNRS 6293 INSERM U1103, Clermont Université, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Service d’Endocrinologie-Diabétologie, F-63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
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Chiu PCN, Lam KKW, Wong RCW, Yeung WSB. The identity of zona pellucida receptor on spermatozoa: an unresolved issue in developmental biology. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2014; 30:86-95. [PMID: 24747367 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Revised: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian oocytes are surrounded by an acellular zona pellucida (ZP). Fertilization begins when a capacitated spermatozoon binds to the ZP. Defective sperm-ZP interaction is a cause of male infertility and reduced fertilization rates in clinical assisted reproduction treatment. Despite the importance of spermatozoa-ZP binding, the mechanisms and regulation of the interaction are unclear partly due to the failure in the identification of ZP receptor on spermatozoa. Most of the previous studies assumed that the sperm ZP receptor is a single molecular species, and a number of potential candidates had been suggested. Yet none of them can be considered as the sole sperm ZP receptor. Accumulated evidence suggested that the sperm ZP receptor is a dynamic multi-molecular structure requiring coordinated action of different proteins that are assembled into a functional complex during post-testicular maturation and capacitation. The complex components may include carbohydrate-binding, protein-binding and acrosomal matrix proteins which work as a suite to mediate spermatozoa-ZP interaction. This article aims to review the latest insights in the identification of the sperm ZP receptor. Continued investigation of the area will provide considerable understanding of the regulation of fertilization that will be useful for practical application in human contraception and reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China; Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kevin K W Lam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Rachel C W Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China; Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China.
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Brenker C, Zhou Y, Müller A, Echeverry FA, Trötschel C, Poetsch A, Xia XM, Bönigk W, Lingle CJ, Kaupp UB, Strünker T. The Ca2+-activated K+ current of human sperm is mediated by Slo3. eLife 2014; 3:e01438. [PMID: 24670955 PMCID: PMC3966514 DOI: 10.7554/elife.01438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm are equipped with a unique set of ion channels that orchestrate fertilization. In mouse sperm, the principal K+ current (IKSper) is carried by the Slo3 channel, which sets the membrane potential (Vm) in a strongly pHi-dependent manner. Here, we show that IKSper in human sperm is activated weakly by pHi and more strongly by Ca2+. Correspondingly, Vm is strongly regulated by Ca2+ and less so by pHi. We find that inhibitors of Slo3 suppress human IKSper, and we identify the Slo3 protein in the flagellum of human sperm. Moreover, heterologously expressed human Slo3, but not mouse Slo3, is activated by Ca2+ rather than by alkaline pHi; current–voltage relations of human Slo3 and human IKSper are similar. We conclude that Slo3 represents the principal K+ channel in human sperm that carries the Ca2+-activated IKSper current. We propose that, in human sperm, the progesterone-evoked Ca2+ influx carried by voltage-gated CatSper channels is limited by Ca2+-controlled hyperpolarization via Slo3. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.01438.001 A sperm that has been ejaculated into the female reproductive tract must complete a number of tasks to pass on its genes to the next generation. First it must travel along a meandering route to encounter an egg, before pushing through a jelly-like coating that surrounds the egg and then, finally, fusing with the egg’s surface membrane. In order to complete these steps and fertilise the egg, a sperm must undergo a process called ‘capacitation’. This process, and a variety of other sperm functions, involves the controlled flux of positive ions into and out of the sperm via specific ion channels that are located in the cell membrane. The properties of the ion channels that allow protons and calcium ions to move into and out of human sperm are well understood, but less is known about the channels that control the movement of potassium ions. In mice, a channel called Slo3 allows potassium ions to flow out of the sperm and makes the membrane voltage of these cells more negative. Also, in mice, this channel is essential for the sperm to function correctly, and for fertilization. However, in humans, it is unclear if the Slo3 channel is present in sperm and if it performs the same role. Now, Brenker et al. have shown that the flow of potassium ions out of human sperm occurs via the Slo3 channel, and that human Slo3 is responsible for setting the membrane voltage of these cells. However, whereas the mouse Slo3 channel is opened in response to a decrease in the concentration of protons within the sperm (i.e., an increase of the pH inside the cell), human Slo3 is largely controlled by changes in the levels of calcium ions. An increase in the calcium concentration within the cell opens the human Slo3 channel, more than a decrease in the proton concentration does. Altogether, Brenker et al. identify Slo3 as the principal potassium channel in human sperm and reveal more fundamental differences between human sperm and mouse sperm. Thereby, this work further stresses the need to be cautious about using mice as a model of male fertility in humans. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.01438.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Brenker
- Department of Molecular Sensory Systems, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Bonn, Germany
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42
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Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling in the reproductive system in health and disease. Purinergic Signal 2014; 10:157-87. [PMID: 24271059 PMCID: PMC3944041 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-013-9399-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There are multiple roles for purinergic signalling in both male and female reproductive organs. ATP, released as a cotransmitter with noradrenaline from sympathetic nerves, contracts smooth muscle via P2X1 receptors in vas deferens, seminal vesicles, prostate and uterus, as well as in blood vessels. Male infertility occurs in P2X1 receptor knockout mice. Both short- and long-term trophic purinergic signalling occurs in reproductive organs. Purinergic signalling is involved in hormone secretion, penile erection, sperm motility and capacitation, and mucous production. Changes in purinoceptor expression occur in pathophysiological conditions, including pre-eclampsia, cancer and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Burnstock
- Autonomic Neuroscience Centre, University College Medical School, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK,
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43
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Hsu MC, Wang JY, Lee YJ, Jong DS, Tsui KH, Chiu CH. Kisspeptin modulates fertilization capacity of mouse spermatozoa. Reproduction 2014; 147:835-45. [PMID: 24567427 DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Kisspeptin acts as an upstream regulator of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis, which is one of the main regulatory systems for mammalian reproduction. Kiss1 and its receptor Kiss1r (also known as G protein-coupled receptor 54 (Gpr54)) are expressed in various organs, but their functions are not well understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression profiles and functions of kisspeptin and KISS1R in the reproductive tissues of imprinting control region mice. To identify the expression pattern and location of kisspeptin and KISS1R in gonads, testes and ovarian tissues were examined by immunohistochemical or immunofluorescent staining. Kisspeptin and KISS1R were expressed primarily in Leydig cells and seminiferous tubules respectively. KISS1R was specifically localized in the acrosomal region of spermatids and mature spermatozoa. Kisspeptin, but not KISS1R, was expressed in the cumulus-oocyte complex and oviductal epithelium of ovarian and oviductal tissues. The sperm intracellular calcium concentrations significantly increased in response to treatment with kisspeptin 10 in Fluo-4-loaded sperm. The IVF rates decreased after treatment of sperm with the kisspeptin antagonist peptide 234. These results suggest that kisspeptin and KISS1R might be involved in the fertilization process in the female reproductive tract. In summary, this study indicates that kisspeptin and KISS1R are expressed in female and male gametes, respectively, and in mouse reproductive tissues. These data strongly suggest that the kisspeptin system could regulate mammalian fertilization and reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Chieh Hsu
- Department of Animal Science and TechnologyCollege of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, No. 50, Ln. 155, Sec. 3, Keelung Road, Taipei 10673, TaiwanDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyKaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 81346, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Jyun-Yuan Wang
- Department of Animal Science and TechnologyCollege of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, No. 50, Ln. 155, Sec. 3, Keelung Road, Taipei 10673, TaiwanDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyKaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 81346, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Yue-Jia Lee
- Department of Animal Science and TechnologyCollege of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, No. 50, Ln. 155, Sec. 3, Keelung Road, Taipei 10673, TaiwanDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyKaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 81346, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - De-Shien Jong
- Department of Animal Science and TechnologyCollege of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, No. 50, Ln. 155, Sec. 3, Keelung Road, Taipei 10673, TaiwanDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyKaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 81346, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Kuan-Hao Tsui
- Department of Animal Science and TechnologyCollege of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, No. 50, Ln. 155, Sec. 3, Keelung Road, Taipei 10673, TaiwanDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyKaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 81346, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Chih-Hsien Chiu
- Department of Animal Science and TechnologyCollege of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, No. 50, Ln. 155, Sec. 3, Keelung Road, Taipei 10673, TaiwanDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyKaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 81346, Taiwan, Republic of China
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Aalberts M, Stout TAE, Stoorvogel W. Prostasomes: extracellular vesicles from the prostate. Reproduction 2013; 147:R1-14. [PMID: 24149515 DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The term 'prostasomes' is generally used to classify the extracellular vesicles (EVs) released into prostatic fluid by prostate epithelial cells. However, other epithelia within the male reproductive tract also release EVs that mix with 'true' prostasomes during semen emission or ejaculation. Prostasomes have been proposed to regulate the timing of sperm cell capacitation and induction of the acrosome reaction, as well as to stimulate sperm motility where all three are prerequisite processes for spermatozoa to attain fertilising capacity. Other proposed functions of prostasomes include interfering with the destruction of spermatozoa by immune cells within the female reproductive tract. On the other hand, it is unclear whether the distinct presumed functions are performed collectively by a single type of prostasome or by separate distinct sub-populations of EVs. Moreover, the exact molecular mechanisms through which prostasomes exert their functions have not been fully resolved. Besides their physiological functions, prostasomes produced by prostate tumour cells have been suggested to support prostate cancer spread development, and prostasomes in peripheral blood plasma may prove to be valuable biomarkers for prostate cancer.
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45
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Chan HC, Sun X. SLC26 anion exchangers in uterine epithelial cells and spermatozoa: clues from the past and hints to the future. Cell Biol Int 2013; 38:1-7. [PMID: 24115633 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.10183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2013] [Accepted: 08/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The solute carrier 26 (SLC26) family emerges as a distinct class of anion transporters with its members SLC26A3 (Slc26a3) and SLC26A6 (Slc26a6) reported to be electrogenic Cl(-)/HCO3(-) exchangers. While it is known that uterine fluid has high HCO3(-) content and that HCO3(-) is essential for sperm capacitation, the molecular mechanisms underlying the transport of HCO3(-) across uterine epithelial cells and sperm have not been fully investigated. The present review re-examines the results from early reports studying anion transport, finding clues for the involvement of Cl(-)/HCO3(-) anion exchangers in electrogenic HCO3(-) transport across endometrial epithelium. We also summarise recent work on Slc26a3 and Slc26a6 in uterine epithelial cells and sperm, revealing their functional role in working closely with the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) for HCO3(-) transport in these cells. The possible involvement of these anion exchangers in other HCO3(-) dependent reproductive processes and their implications for infertility are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao Chang Chan
- Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong
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Witwer KW, Buzás EI, Bemis LT, Bora A, Lässer C, Lötvall J, Nolte-'t Hoen EN, Piper MG, Sivaraman S, Skog J, Théry C, Wauben MH, Hochberg F. Standardization of sample collection, isolation and analysis methods in extracellular vesicle research. J Extracell Vesicles 2013; 2:20360. [PMID: 24009894 PMCID: PMC3760646 DOI: 10.3402/jev.v2i0.20360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1654] [Impact Index Per Article: 150.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2013] [Revised: 04/05/2013] [Accepted: 04/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of publications on extracellular RNA (exRNA) and extracellular vesicles (EV) has highlighted the potential of these molecules and vehicles as biomarkers of disease and therapeutic targets. These findings have created a paradigm shift, most prominently in the field of oncology, prompting expanded interest in the field and dedication of funds for EV research. At the same time, understanding of EV subtypes, biogenesis, cargo and mechanisms of shuttling remains incomplete. The techniques that can be harnessed to address the many gaps in our current knowledge were the subject of a special workshop of the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV) in New York City in October 2012. As part of the “ISEV Research Seminar: Analysis and Function of RNA in Extracellular Vesicles (evRNA)”, 6 round-table discussions were held to provide an evidence-based framework for isolation and analysis of EV, purification and analysis of associated RNA molecules, and molecular engineering of EV for therapeutic intervention. This article arises from the discussion of EV isolation and analysis at that meeting. The conclusions of the round table are supplemented with a review of published materials and our experience. Controversies and outstanding questions are identified that may inform future research and funding priorities. While we emphasize the need for standardization of specimen handling, appropriate normative controls, and isolation and analysis techniques to facilitate comparison of results, we also recognize that continual development and evaluation of techniques will be necessary as new knowledge is amassed. On many points, consensus has not yet been achieved and must be built through the reporting of well-controlled experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth W Witwer
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, MD, USA
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Schmid S, Henning H, Oldenhof H, Wolkers WF, Petrunkina AM, Waberski D. The specific response to capacitating stimuli is a sensitive indicator of chilling injury in hypothermically stored boar spermatozoa. Andrology 2013; 1:376-86. [PMID: 23427145 DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2013.00045.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2012] [Revised: 10/30/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Boar spermatozoa are sensitive to storage temperatures below 15 °C. Chilling injury causes loss of motility and membrane integrity in a minority of cells, whereas the main population displays sublethal changes compromising fertility. In this study, changes of the response to capacitation conditions in hypothermically stored boar spermatozoa have been examined using a kinetic approach with well-defined test and control media. Ejaculates of seven boars were diluted in Beltsville Thawing Solution kept for 3 h at 22 °C or cooled to 17, 10 and 5 °C and stored for 24 and 96 h. At each time point, the standard sperm parameters motility and membrane integrity were evaluated. Subsequently, washed subsamples were incubated in capacitating and control medium before flow cytometric analysis of intracellular calcium content using the Fluo-3 probe and changes in phospholipid disorder using merocyanine. Kinetic changes of response parameters were monitored in viable (plasma membrane intact) cells. Chilling led to a loss of standard sperm quality traits in a minor subpopulation of cells, whereas storage length had no effect on these parameters. However, responses to incubation as determined by the loss of live cells with low intracellular calcium content showed marked changes in relation to storage conditions. The specific responsiveness to capacitation conditions decreased in close relation to storage temperature and length. In contrast, the merocyanine probe revealed to be limited to detect effects of hypothermic storage. Using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, no influence of chilling on membrane phase behaviour was found that might implicate decreased sperm function. In conclusion, assessment of response to capacitating media by monitoring intracellular calcium levels provides a sensitive measure for chilling injury in extended boar semen, and therefore, deserves implementation in hypothermic storage tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Schmid
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine of Clinics, Clinic for Pigs and Small Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, D-30559 Hannover, Germany
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48
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Ma X, Zhao Y, Sun W, Shimabukuro K, Miao L. Transformation: how do nematode sperm become activated and crawl? Protein Cell 2012; 3:755-61. [PMID: 22903434 PMCID: PMC4875351 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-012-2936-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2012] [Accepted: 05/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Nematode sperm undergo a drastic physiological change during spermiogenesis (sperm activation). Unlike mammalian flagellated sperm, nematode sperm are amoeboid cells and their motility is driven by the dynamics of a cytoskeleton composed of major sperm protein (MSP) rather than actin found in other crawling cells. This review focuses on sperm from Caenorhabditis elegans and Ascaris suum to address the roles of external and internal factors that trigger sperm activation and power sperm motility. Nematode sperm can be activated in vitro by several factors, including Pronase and ionophores, and in vivo through the TRY-5 and SPE-8 pathways. Moreover, protease and protease inhibitors are crucial regulators of sperm maturation. MSP-based sperm motility involves a coupled process of protrusion and retraction, both of which have been reconstituted in vitro. Sperm motility is mediated by phosphorylation signals, as illustrated by identification of several key components (MPOP, MFPs and MPAK) in Ascaris and the characterization of GSP-3/4 in C. elegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Ma
- Laboratory of Noncoding RNA, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Yanmei Zhao
- Laboratory of Noncoding RNA, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Wei Sun
- Laboratory of Noncoding RNA, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
- Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China
| | - Katsuya Shimabukuro
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Ube National College of Technology, Ube, Yamaguchi, 755-8555 Japan
| | - Long Miao
- Laboratory of Noncoding RNA, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
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Goodson SG, Qiu Y, Sutton KA, Xie G, Jia W, O'Brien DA. Metabolic substrates exhibit differential effects on functional parameters of mouse sperm capacitation. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:75. [PMID: 22837480 PMCID: PMC3464911 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.102673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Although substantial evidence exists that sperm ATP production via glycolysis is required for mammalian sperm function and male fertility, conflicting reports involving multiple species have appeared regarding the ability of individual glycolytic or mitochondrial substrates to support the physiological changes that occur during capacitation. Several mouse models with defects in the signaling pathways required for capacitation exhibit reductions in sperm ATP levels, suggesting regulatory interactions between sperm metabolism and signal transduction cascades. To better understand these interactions, we conducted quantitative studies of mouse sperm throughout a 2-h in vitro capacitation period and compared the effects of single substrates assayed under identical conditions. Multiple glycolytic and nonglycolytic substrates maintained sperm ATP levels and comparable percentages of motility, but only glucose and mannose supported hyperactivation. These monosaccharides and fructose supported the full pattern of tyrosine phosphorylation, whereas nonglycolytic substrates supported at least partial tyrosine phosphorylation. Inhibition of glycolysis impaired motility in the presence of glucose, fructose, or pyruvate but not in the presence of hydroxybutyrate. Addition of an uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation reduced motility with pyruvate or hydroxybutyrate as substrates but unexpectedly stimulated hyperactivation with fructose. Investigating differences between glucose and fructose in more detail, we demonstrated that hyperactivation results from the active metabolism of glucose. Differences between glucose and fructose appeared to be downstream of changes in intracellular pH, which rose to comparable levels during incubation with either substrate. Sperm redox pathways were differentially affected, with higher levels of associated metabolites and reactive oxygen species generated during incubations with fructose than during incubations with glucose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Summer G Goodson
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7090, USA
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50
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Milošević M, Petrović S, Veličković N, Grković I, Ignjatović M, Horvat A. ATP and ADP hydrolysis in cell membranes from rat myometrium. Mol Cell Biochem 2012; 371:199-208. [PMID: 22956447 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-012-1436-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2012] [Accepted: 08/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular nucleotides affect female reproductive functions, fertilization, and pregnancy. The aim of this study was to investigate biochemical characteristics of ATP and ADP hydrolysis and identify E-NTPDases in myometrial cell membranes from Wistar albino rats. The apparent K (m) values were 506.4 ± 62.1 and 638.8 ± 31.3 μM, with a calculated V (max) (app) of 3,973.0 ± 279.5 and 2,853.9 ± 79.8 nmol/min/mg for ATP and ADP, respectively. The enzyme activity described here has common properties characteristic for NTPDases: divalent cation dependence; alkaline pH optimum for both substrates, insensitivity to some of classical ATPase inhibitors (ouabain, oligomycine, theophylline, levamisole) and significant inhibition by suramine and high concentration of sodium azides (5 mM). According to similar apparent K(m) values for both substrates, the ATP/ADP hydrolysis ratio, and Chevillard competition plot, NTPDase1 is dominant ATP/ADP hydrolyzing enzyme in myometrial cell membranes. RT-PCR analysis revealed expression of three members of ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase family (NTPDase 1, 2, and 8) in rat uterus. These findings may further elucidate the role of NTPDases and ATP in reproductive physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Milošević
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Institute of Nuclear Sciences VINČA, University of Belgrade, P.O. Box 522, 11001 Belgrade, Serbia.
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