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Ge T, Yuan L, Xu L, Yang F, Xu W, Niu C, Li G, Zhou H, Zheng Y. Coiled-coil domain containing 159 is required for spermatid head and tail assembly in mice†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:877-894. [PMID: 38236177 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae012] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The centrosome is critical for maintaining the sperm head-tail connection and the formation of flagellar microtubules. In this study, we found that in mouse testes, CCDC159 (coiled-coil domain-containing protein 159) is specifically localized to the head-tail coupling apparatus (HTCA) of spermatids, a structure that ensures sperm head-tail tight conjunction. CCDC159 contains a C-terminal coiled-coil domain that functions as the centrosomal localization signal. Gene knockout (KO) of Ccdc159 in mice resulted in acephalic spermatozoa, abnormal flagella, and male infertility. To explore the mechanism behind CCDC159 regulating spermatogenesis, we identified CCDC159-binding proteins using a yeast two-hybrid screen and speculated that CCDC159 participates in HTCA assembly by regulating protein phosphatase PP1 activity. Further RNA-sequencing analyses of Ccdc159 KO testes revealed numerous genes involved in male gamete generation that were downregulated. Together, our results show that CCDC159 in spermatids is a novel centrosomal protein anchoring the sperm head to the tail. Considering the limitation of KO mouse model in clarifying the biological function of CCDC159 in spermatogenesis, a gene-rescue experiment will be performed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Ge
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lu Yuan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Linwei Xu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenhua Xu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Changmin Niu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guanghua Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huiping Zhou
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ying Zheng
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
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2
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Yahyavi SK, Boisen IM, Cui Z, Jorsal MJ, Kooij I, Holt R, Juul A, Blomberg Jensen M. Calcium and vitamin D homoeostasis in male fertility. Proc Nutr Soc 2024; 83:95-108. [PMID: 38072394 DOI: 10.1017/s002966512300486x] [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] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Calcium and vitamin D have well-established roles in maintaining calcium balance and bone health. Decades of research in human subjects and animals have revealed that calcium and vitamin D also have effects on many other organs including male reproductive organs. The presence of calcium-sensing receptor, vitamin D receptor, vitamin D activating and inactivating enzymes and calcium channels in the testes, male reproductive tract and human spermatozoa suggests that vitamin D and calcium may modify male reproductive function. Functional animal models have shown that vitamin D deficiency in male rodents leads to a decrease in successful mating and fewer pregnancies, often caused by impaired sperm motility and poor sperm morphology. Human studies have to a lesser extent validated these findings; however, newer studies suggest a positive effect of vitamin D supplementation on semen quality in cases with vitamin D deficiency, which highlights the need for initiatives to prevent vitamin D deficiency. Calcium channels in male reproductive organs and spermatozoa contribute to the regulation of sperm motility and capacitation, both essential for successful fertilisation, which supports a need to avoid calcium deficiency. Studies have demonstrated that vitamin D, as a regulator of calcium homoeostasis, influences calcium influx in the testis and spermatozoa. Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and male infertility, although further investigation is needed to establish a definitive causal relationship. Understanding the interplay between vitamin D, calcium and male reproductive health may open new avenues for improving fertility outcomes in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Kafai Yahyavi
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ida Marie Boisen
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Zhihui Cui
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mads Joon Jorsal
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ireen Kooij
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rune Holt
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin Blomberg Jensen
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Olszewska M, Malcher A, Stokowy T, Pollock N, Berman AJ, Budkiewicz S, Kamieniczna M, Jackowiak H, Suszynska-Zajczyk J, Jedrzejczak P, Yatsenko AN, Kurpisz M. Effects of Tcte1 knockout on energy chain transportation and spermatogenesis: implications for male infertility. Hum Reprod Open 2024; 2024:hoae020. [PMID: 38650655 PMCID: PMC11035007 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoae020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the Tcte1 mutation causative for male infertility? SUMMARY ANSWER Our collected data underline the complex and devastating effect of the single-gene mutation on the testicular molecular network, leading to male reproductive failure. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Recent data have revealed mutations in genes related to axonemal dynein arms as causative for morphology and motility abnormalities in spermatozoa of infertile males, including dysplasia of fibrous sheath (DFS) and multiple morphological abnormalities in the sperm flagella (MMAF). The nexin-dynein regulatory complex (N-DRC) coordinates the dynein arm activity and is built from the DRC1-DRC7 proteins. DRC5 (TCTE1), one of the N-DRC elements, has already been reported as a candidate for abnormal sperm flagella beating; however, only in a restricted manner with no clear explanation of respective observations. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION Using the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technique, a mouse Tcte1 gene knockout line was created on the basis of the C57Bl/6J strain. The mouse reproductive potential, semen characteristics, testicular gene expression levels, sperm ATP, and testis apoptosis level measurements were then assessed, followed by visualization of N-DRC proteins in sperm, and protein modeling in silico. Also, a pilot genomic sequencing study of samples from human infertile males (n = 248) was applied for screening of TCTE1 variants. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS To check the reproductive potential of KO mice, adult animals were crossed for delivery of three litters per caged pair, but for no longer than for 6 months, in various combinations of zygosity. All experiments were performed for wild-type (WT, control group), heterozygous Tcte1+/- and homozygous Tcte1-/- male mice. Gross anatomy was performed on testis and epididymis samples, followed by semen analysis. Sequencing of RNA (RNAseq; Illumina) was done for mice testis tissues. STRING interactions were checked for protein-protein interactions, based on changed expression levels of corresponding genes identified in the mouse testis RNAseq experiments. Immunofluorescence in situ staining was performed to detect the N-DRC complex proteins: Tcte1 (Drc5), Drc7, Fbxl13 (Drc6), and Eps8l1 (Drc3) in mouse spermatozoa. To determine the amount of ATP in spermatozoa, the luminescence level was measured. In addition, immunofluorescence in situ staining was performed to check the level of apoptosis via caspase 3 visualization on mouse testis samples. DNA from whole blood samples of infertile males (n = 137 with non-obstructive azoospermia or cryptozoospermia, n = 111 samples with a spectrum of oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, including n = 47 with asthenozoospermia) was extracted to perform genomic sequencing (WGS, WES, or Sanger). Protein prediction modeling of human-identified variants and the exon 3 structure deleted in the mouse knockout was also performed. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE No progeny at all was found for the homozygous males which were revealed to have oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, while heterozygous animals were fertile but manifested oligozoospermia, suggesting haploinsufficiency. RNA-sequencing of the testicular tissue showed the influence of Tcte1 mutations on the expression pattern of 21 genes responsible for mitochondrial ATP processing or linked with apoptosis or spermatogenesis. In Tcte1-/- males, the protein was revealed in only residual amounts in the sperm head nucleus and was not transported to the sperm flagella, as were other N-DRC components. Decreased ATP levels (2.4-fold lower) were found in the spermatozoa of homozygous mice, together with disturbed tail:midpiece ratios, leading to abnormal sperm tail beating. Casp3-positive signals (indicating apoptosis) were observed in spermatogonia only, at a similar level in all three mouse genotypes. Mutation screening of human infertile males revealed one novel and five ultra-rare heterogeneous variants (predicted as disease-causing) in 6.05% of the patients studied. Protein prediction modeling of identified variants revealed changes in the protein surface charge potential, leading to disruption in helix flexibility or its dynamics, thus suggesting disrupted interactions of TCTE1 with its binding partners located within the axoneme. LARGE SCALE DATA All data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this published article and its supplementary information files. RNAseq data are available in the GEO database (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/) under the accession number GSE207805. The results described in the publication are based on whole-genome or exome sequencing data which includes sensitive information in the form of patient-specific germline variants. Information regarding such variants must not be shared publicly following European Union legislation, therefore access to raw data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION In the study, the in vitro fertilization performance of sperm from homozygous male mice was not checked. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study contains novel and comprehensive data concerning the role of TCTE1 in male infertility. The TCTE1 gene is the next one that should be added to the 'male infertility list' because of its crucial role in spermatogenesis and proper sperm functioning. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported by National Science Centre in Poland, grants no.: 2015/17/B/NZ2/01157 and 2020/37/B/NZ5/00549 (to M.K.), 2017/26/D/NZ5/00789 (to A.M.), and HD096723, GM127569-03, NIH SAP #4100085736 PA DoH (to A.N.Y.). The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Olszewska
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Malcher
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Tomasz Stokowy
- Scientific Computing Group, IT Division, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Nijole Pollock
- Department of OB/GYN and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Andrea J Berman
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sylwia Budkiewicz
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Hanna Jackowiak
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Piotr Jedrzejczak
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Alexander N Yatsenko
- Department of OB/GYN and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Maciej Kurpisz
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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4
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Kimmins S, Anderson RA, Barratt CLR, Behre HM, Catford SR, De Jonge CJ, Delbes G, Eisenberg ML, Garrido N, Houston BJ, Jørgensen N, Krausz C, Lismer A, McLachlan RI, Minhas S, Moss T, Pacey A, Priskorn L, Schlatt S, Trasler J, Trasande L, Tüttelmann F, Vazquez-Levin MH, Veltman JA, Zhang F, O'Bryan MK. Frequency, morbidity and equity - the case for increased research on male fertility. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:102-124. [PMID: 37828407 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00820-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Currently, most men with infertility cannot be given an aetiology, which reflects a lack of knowledge around gamete production and how it is affected by genetics and the environment. A failure to recognize the burden of male infertility and its potential as a biomarker for systemic illness exists. The absence of such knowledge results in patients generally being treated as a uniform group, for whom the strategy is to bypass the causality using medically assisted reproduction (MAR) techniques. In doing so, opportunities to prevent co-morbidity are missed and the burden of MAR is shifted to the woman. To advance understanding of men's reproductive health, longitudinal and multi-national centres for data and sample collection are essential. Such programmes must enable an integrated view of the consequences of genetics, epigenetics and environmental factors on fertility and offspring health. Definition and possible amelioration of the consequences of MAR for conceived children are needed. Inherent in this statement is the necessity to promote fertility restoration and/or use the least invasive MAR strategy available. To achieve this aim, protocols must be rigorously tested and the move towards personalized medicine encouraged. Equally, education of the public, governments and clinicians on the frequency and consequences of infertility is needed. Health options, including male contraceptives, must be expanded, and the opportunities encompassed in such investment understood. The pressing questions related to male reproductive health, spanning the spectrum of andrology are identified in the Expert Recommendation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Département de Pathologie et Biologie Cellulaire, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Division of Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Sarah R Catford
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Geraldine Delbes
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Armand-Frappier Sante Biotechnologie, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Urology and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nicolas Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Brendan J Houston
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, University Hospital of Careggi Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Ariane Lismer
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Robert I McLachlan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash IVF Group, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suks Minhas
- Department of Surgery and Cancer Imperial, London, UK
| | - Tim Moss
- Healthy Male and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Allan Pacey
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Lærke Priskorn
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Departments of Paediatrics, Human Genetics and Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Leonardo Trasande
- Center for the Investigation of Environmental Hazards, Department of Paediatrics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mónica Hebe Vazquez-Levin
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina, Fundación IBYME, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Joris A Veltman
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Feng Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.
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5
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Mapel XM, Kadri NK, Leonard AS, He Q, Lloret-Villas A, Bhati M, Hiltpold M, Pausch H. Molecular quantitative trait loci in reproductive tissues impact male fertility in cattle. Nat Commun 2024; 15:674. [PMID: 38253538 PMCID: PMC10803364 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-44935-7] [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: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Breeding bulls are well suited to investigate inherited variation in male fertility because they are genotyped and their reproductive success is monitored through semen analyses and thousands of artificial inseminations. However, functional data from relevant tissues are lacking in cattle, which prevents fine-mapping fertility-associated genomic regions. Here, we characterize gene expression and splicing variation in testis, epididymis, and vas deferens transcriptomes of 118 mature bulls and conduct association tests between 414,667 molecular phenotypes and 21,501,032 genome-wide variants to identify 41,156 regulatory loci. We show broad consensus in tissue-specific and tissue-enriched gene expression between the three bovine tissues and their human and murine counterparts. Expression- and splicing-mediating variants are more than three times as frequent in testis than epididymis and vas deferens, highlighting the transcriptional complexity of testis. Finally, we identify genes (WDR19, SPATA16, KCTD19, ZDHHC1) and molecular phenotypes that are associated with quantitative variation in male fertility through transcriptome-wide association and colocalization analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xena Marie Mapel
- Animal Genomics, ETH Zurich, Universitatstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Naveen Kumar Kadri
- Animal Genomics, ETH Zurich, Universitatstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alexander S Leonard
- Animal Genomics, ETH Zurich, Universitatstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Qiongyu He
- Animal Genomics, ETH Zurich, Universitatstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Meenu Bhati
- Animal Genomics, ETH Zurich, Universitatstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
- Roslin Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Maya Hiltpold
- Animal Genomics, ETH Zurich, Universitatstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
- GenPhySE, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, 31326, Castanet Tolosan, France
| | - Hubert Pausch
- Animal Genomics, ETH Zurich, Universitatstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland.
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6
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David D, Fino J, Oliveira R, Dória S, Morton CC. Balanced chromosomal rearrangements implicate YIPF5 and SPATC1L in non-obstructive oligoasthenozoospermia and oligozoospermia and of a derivative chromosome 22 in recurrent miscarriage. Gene 2023; 887:147737. [PMID: 37625567 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147737] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Naturally occurring balanced, unbalanced, and complex chromosomal rearrangements have been reported to cause pathogenic genomic or genetic variants leading to infertility and recurrent miscarriage. Therefore, balanced chromosomal rearrangements were used as genomic signposts for identification of candidate genes or genomic loci associated with male infertility due to defects of spermatogenesis, or with recurrent miscarriage. In three male probands, structural chromosomal variants and copy number variants were identified at nucleotide resolution by long-insert genome sequencing approaches and Sanger sequencing. The pathogenic potential of these and affected candidate genes was assessed based on convergent genomic and genotype-phenotype correlation data. Identification of balanced chromosomal rearrangement breakpoints and interpretation in the context of their genomic background of structural and copy number variants led us to conclude that the infertility due to oligoasthenozoospermia and oligozoospermia is most likely associated with a position effect on YIPF5 and SPATC1L, respectively. In a third proband with intellectual disability and recurrent miscarriage, disruption of CAMK2B causing autosomal dominant, intellectual developmental disorder 54 and increased meiotic segregation during gametogenesis of a der(22) are responsible for the reported phenotype. Our data further support the existence of loci at 5q23 and 21q22.3 for these spermatogenesis defects and highlight the importance of the naturally occurring balanced chromosomal rearrangements for assessment of the pathogenic mechanisms. Furthermore, we show comorbidities due to the same balanced chromosomal rearrangement caused by different pathogenic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dezső David
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doctor Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Joana Fino
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doctor Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Renata Oliveira
- Medical Genetics Service, University Hospital Centre of São João, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Dória
- Department of Pathology, Genetics Service, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; I3S-Health Research and Innovation Institute, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cynthia C Morton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness (ManCAD), University of Manchester M13 9PL, UK
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7
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Nam CS, Campbell KJ, Acquati C, Bole R, Adler A, Collins DJ, Collins E, Samplaski M, Anderson-Bialis J, Andino JJ, Asafu-Adjei D, Gaskins AJ, Bortoletto P, Vij SC, Orwig KE, Lundy SD. Deafening Silence of Male Infertility. Urology 2023; 182:111-124. [PMID: 37778476 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2023.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Think about 6 loved ones of reproductive age in your life. Now imagine that 1 of these 6 individuals is suffering from infertility. Perhaps they feel alone and isolated, unable to discuss their heartbreak with their closest friends, family, and support network. Suffering in silence. In this editorial, we discuss the infertility journey through the lens of the patients, the providers, and the scientists who struggle with infertility each and every day. Our goal is to open a dialogue surrounding infertility, with an emphasis on dismantling the longstanding societal barriers to acknowledging male infertility as a disease. Through education, communication, compassion, and advocacy, together we can all begin to break the deafening silence of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine S Nam
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | | | - Chiara Acquati
- Graduate College of Social Work, University of Houston, Houston, TX; Department of Clinical Sciences, Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, University of Houston, Houston, TX; Department of Health Disparities Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Raevti Bole
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Ava Adler
- Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - David J Collins
- Department of Urology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Erica Collins
- Department of Urology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Mary Samplaski
- Department of Urology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Juan J Andino
- Department of Urology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Denise Asafu-Adjei
- Department of Urology, Department of Parkinson School of Health Sciences and Public Health, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Pietro Bortoletto
- Boston IVF, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Sarah C Vij
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Scott D Lundy
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.
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8
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Kaltsas A, Zachariou A, Markou E, Dimitriadis F, Sofikitis N, Pournaras S. Microbial Dysbiosis and Male Infertility: Understanding the Impact and Exploring Therapeutic Interventions. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1491. [PMID: 37888102 PMCID: PMC10608462 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13101491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The human microbiota in the genital tract is pivotal for maintaining fertility, but its disruption can lead to male infertility. This study examines the relationship between microbial dysbiosis and male infertility, underscoring the promise of precision medicine in this field. Through a comprehensive review, this research indicates microbial signatures associated with male infertility, such as altered bacterial diversity, the dominance of pathogenic species, and imbalances in the genital microbiome. Key mechanisms linking microbial dysbiosis to infertility include inflammation, oxidative stress, and sperm structural deterioration. Emerging strategies like targeted antimicrobial therapies, probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation have shown potential in adjusting the genital microbiota to enhance male fertility. Notably, the application of precision medicine, which customizes treatments based on individual microbial profiles and specific causes of infertility, emerges as a promising approach to enhance treatment outcomes. Ultimately, microbial dysbiosis is intricately linked to male infertility, and embracing personalized treatment strategies rooted in precision medicine principles could be the way forward in addressing infertility associated with microbial factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aris Kaltsas
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Athanasios Zachariou
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Eleftheria Markou
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Spyridon Pournaras
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Attikon General University Hospital of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece
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9
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Khalayli N, Achmeh B, Ali K, Aziz A, Kudsi M. Male infertility with muscle weakness: a point of view. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2023; 85:5120-5122. [PMID: 37811075 PMCID: PMC10553049 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction and importance The most common causes of infertility are idiopathic spermatogenetic disorders, occurring in multiple reproductive or systemic diseases. The underlying genetic disorders influence the treatment and transmission of the disease to the offspring. Case presentation A 32-year-old Syrian male, married for 6 years, presented with primary infertility. The patient had a history of muscle dystrophy for 12 years. He had no previous medical or drug addiction or family history. He had gynecomastia. Semen analysis revealed oligospermia in the patient. Follicle-stimulating hormone was elevated. Gene analysis could not be done due to funding issues. The percutaneous testicular biopsy revealed hypospermatogenesis, atrophy, and marked hyalinization of the seminiferous tubules. Electromyography of the upper extremities demonstrated myotonic discharges, with a waxing-waning frequency, amplitude, and a characteristic 'engine revving' sound. Clinical discussion Myotonic dystrophy (MD) is an autosomal dominant inheritance disease with adult onset. Muscle weakness is the predominant presenting feature, with early involvement of the distal limbs and neck muscles and a characteristic facial appearance.Systemic clinical manifestations may include cardiac conduction defects, cataracts, insulin resistance and diabetes, testicular atrophy with impaired spermatogenesis, and others. Testicular biopsy findings are specific. To our knowledge, this is the first case of male infertility associated with MD in Syria. However, there are no data on the prevalence of myotonic dystrophy type 1 (MD1) in Syria. Conclusion The practicing physician should keep in mind the frequent association between MD and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Khalil Ali
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - Aghiad Aziz
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - Maysoun Kudsi
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
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10
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Kaushik A, Metkari SM, Ali S, Bhartiya D. Preventing/Reversing Adverse Effects of Endocrine Disruption on Mouse Testes by Normalizing Tissue Resident VSELs. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2525-2540. [PMID: 37561284 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10601-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive health of men is declining in today's world due to increased developmental exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). We earlier reported that neonatal exposure to endocrine disruption resulted in reduced numbers of seminiferous tubules in Stage VIII, decreased sperm count, and infertility along with testicular tumors in 65% of diethylstilbestrol (DES) treated mice. Epigenetic changes due to EDCs, pushed the VSELs out of a quiescent state to enter cell cycle and undergo excessive self-renewal while transition of c-KIT- stem cells into c-KIT + germ cells was blocked due to altered MMR axis (Np95, Pcna, Dnmts), global hypomethylation (reduced expression of 5-methylcytosine) and loss of imprinting at Igf2-H19 and Dlk1-Meg3 loci. The present study was undertaken to firstly show similar defects in FACS sorted VSELs from DES treated testis and to further explore the reversal of these testicular pathologies by (i) oral administration of XAR (a nano-formulation of resveratrol) or (ii) inter-tubular transplantation of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Similar defects as reported earlier in the testes were evident, based on RNAseq data, on FACS sorted VSELs from DES treated mice. Both strategies were found effective, improved spermatogenesis, increased number of tubules in Stage VIII, normalized numbers of VSELs and c-KIT + cells, improved epigenetic status of VSELs to restore quiescent state, and reduced cancer incidence from 65% after DES to 13.33% and 20% after XAR treatment or MSCs transplantation respectively. Results provide a basis for initiating clinical studies and the study falls under the umbrella of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 to ensure healthy lives and well-being for all of all ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Kaushik
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - S M Metkari
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - Subhan Ali
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India.
- Epigeneres Biotech Pvt Ltd, Lower Parel, Mumbai, 400 013, India.
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11
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Calogero AE, Cannarella R, Agarwal A, Hamoda TAAAM, Rambhatla A, Saleh R, Boitrelle F, Ziouziou I, Toprak T, Gul M, Avidor-Reiss T, Kavoussi P, Chung E, Birowo P, Ghayda RA, Ko E, Colpi G, Dimitriadis F, Russo GI, Martinez M, Calik G, Kandil H, Salvio G, Mostafa T, Lin H, Park HJ, Gherabi N, Phuoc NHV, Quang N, Adriansjah R, La Vignera S, Micic S, Durairajanayagam D, Serefoglu EC, Karthikeyan VS, Kothari P, Atmoko W, Shah R. The Renaissance of Male Infertility Management in the Golden Age of Andrology. World J Mens Health 2023; 41:237-254. [PMID: 36649928 PMCID: PMC10042649 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects nearly 186 million people worldwide and the male partner is the cause in about half of the cases. Meta-regression data indicate an unexplained decline in sperm concentration and total sperm count over the last four decades, with an increasing prevalence of male infertility. This suggests an urgent need to implement further basic and clinical research in Andrology. Andrology developed as a branch of urology, gynecology, endocrinology, and, dermatology. The first scientific journal devoted to andrological sciences was founded in 1969. Since then, despite great advancements, andrology has encountered several obstacles in its growth. In fact, for cultural reasons, the male partner has often been neglected in the diagnostic and therapeutic workup of the infertile couple. Furthermore, the development of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) has driven a strong impression that this biotechnology can overcome all forms of infertility, with a common belief that having a spermatozoon from a male partner (a sort of sperm donor) is all that is needed to achieve pregnancy. However, clinical practice has shown that the quality of the male gamete is important for a successful ART outcome. Furthermore, the safety of ART has been questioned because of the high prevalence of comorbidities in the offspring of ART conceptions compared to spontaneous conceptions. These issues have paved the way for more research and a greater understanding of the mechanisms of spermatogenesis and male infertility. Consequently, numerous discoveries have been made in the field of andrology, ranging from genetics to several "omics" technologies, oxidative stress and sperm DNA fragmentation, the sixth edition of the WHO manual, artificial intelligence, management of azoospermia, fertility in cancers survivors, artificial testis, 3D printing, gene engineering, stem cells therapy for spermatogenesis, and reconstructive microsurgery and seminal microbiome. Nevertheless, as many cases of male infertility remain idiopathic, further studies are required to improve the clinical management of infertile males. A multidisciplinary strategy involving both clinicians and scientists in basic, translational, and clinical research is the core principle that will allow andrology to overcome its limits and reach further goals. This state-of-the-art article aims to present a historical review of andrology, and, particularly, male infertility, from its "Middle Ages" to its "Renaissance", a golden age of andrology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Taha Abo-Almagd Abdel-Meguid Hamoda
- Department of Urology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Amarnath Rambhatla
- Department of Urology, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
- Ajyal IVF Center, Ajyal Hospital, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, Poissy, France
- Department of Biology, Reproduction, Epigenetics, Environment and Development, Paris Saclay University, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Imad Ziouziou
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Tuncay Toprak
- Department of Urology, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Murat Gul
- Department of Urology, Selcuk University School of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
| | - Tomer Avidor-Reiss
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Parviz Kavoussi
- Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Eric Chung
- Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ponco Birowo
- Department of Urology, Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Ramy Abou Ghayda
- Urology Institute, University Hospitals, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Edmund Ko
- Department of Urology, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | | | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Marlon Martinez
- Section of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Gokhan Calik
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Department of Endocrinology, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Taymour Mostafa
- Department of Andrology, Sexology and STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Haocheng Lin
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Hyun Jun Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea
- Medical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Nazim Gherabi
- Faculty of Medicine, Algiers University, Algiers, Algeria
| | | | - Nguyen Quang
- Center for Andrology and Sexual Medicine, Viet Duc University Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Department of Urology, Andrology and Sexual Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Ricky Adriansjah
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran, Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Banding, Indonesia
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sava Micic
- Department of Andrology, Uromedica Polyclinic, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Damayanthi Durairajanayagam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ege Can Serefoglu
- Department of Urology, Biruni University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Priyank Kothari
- Department of Urology, B.Y.L Nair Ch Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Widi Atmoko
- Department Department of Urology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Rupin Shah
- Division of Andrology, Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
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12
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Du YQ, Shu CY, Zheng M, Xu WD, Sun Y, Shen L, Zhang C, Zhang YX, Wang QN, Li KQ, Chen BY, Hao K, Lyu JX, Wang Z. Truncating PICK1 Variant Identified in Azoospermia Affected Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Knockout Mice. Curr Med Sci 2023; 43:313-323. [PMID: 36971977 PMCID: PMC10040929 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-023-2704-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The protein interacting with C kinase 1 (PICK1) plays a critical role in vesicle trafficking, and its deficiency in sperm cells results in abnormal vesicle trafficking from Golgi to acrosome, which eventually disrupts acrosome formation and leads to male infertility. METHODS An azoospermia sample was filtered, and the laboratory detection and clinical phenotype indicated typical azoospermia in the patient. We sequenced all of the exons in the PICK1 gene and found that there was a novel homozygous variant in the PICK1 gene, c.364delA (p.Lys122SerfsX8), and this protein structure truncating variant seriously affected the biological function. Then we constructed a PICK1 knockout mouse model using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat cutting technology (CRISPRc). RESULTS The sperm from PICK1 knockout mice showed acrosome and nucleus abnormalities, as well as dysfunctional mitochondrial sheath formation. Both the total sperm and motility sperm counts were decreased in the PICK1 knockout mice compared to wild-type mice. Moreover, the mitochondrial dysfunction was verified in the mice. These defects in the male PICK1 knockout mice may have eventually led to complete infertility. CONCLUSION The c.364delA novel variant in the PICK1 gene associated with clinical infertility, and pathogenic variants in the PICK1 may cause azoospermia or asthenospermia by impairing mitochondrial function in both mice and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-qiang Du
- grid.506977.a0000 0004 1757 7957Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014 China
- grid.268099.c0000 0001 0348 3990School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035 China
| | - Chong-yi Shu
- grid.506977.a0000 0004 1757 7957Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014 China
| | - Min Zheng
- grid.506977.a0000 0004 1757 7957Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014 China
| | - Wei-de Xu
- grid.268099.c0000 0001 0348 3990School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035 China
| | - Yue Sun
- grid.268099.c0000 0001 0348 3990School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035 China
| | - Lu Shen
- grid.268099.c0000 0001 0348 3990School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035 China
| | - Chen Zhang
- grid.268099.c0000 0001 0348 3990School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035 China
| | - Yu-xin Zhang
- grid.268099.c0000 0001 0348 3990School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035 China
| | - Qian-ni Wang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, No.903 Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Hangzhou, 310000 China
| | - Kai-qiang Li
- grid.506977.a0000 0004 1757 7957Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014 China
| | - Bing-yu Chen
- grid.506977.a0000 0004 1757 7957Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014 China
| | - Ke Hao
- grid.506977.a0000 0004 1757 7957Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014 China
| | - Jian-xin Lyu
- grid.268099.c0000 0001 0348 3990School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035 China
- grid.506977.a0000 0004 1757 7957School of Laboratory Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310059 China
| | - Zhen Wang
- grid.506977.a0000 0004 1757 7957Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014 China
- grid.268099.c0000 0001 0348 3990School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035 China
- grid.506977.a0000 0004 1757 7957School of Laboratory Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310059 China
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13
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Sohail A, Arshad A, Tariq T, Bibi A, Aslam S, Irfan M. Role of MDR1 Gene Polymorphisms in Human Male Infertility: A Meta-Analysis. Am J Mens Health 2023; 17:15579883231166645. [PMID: 37081725 PMCID: PMC10126615 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231166645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The present meta-analysis is performed to determine the association of C1236T and C3435T polymorphisms in the MDR1 gene. Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct were searched. A total of 47 studies were retrieved, of which only three case-control studies, consisting of 490 cases and 423 controls, met the selection criteria. Odds ratios (ORs) for MDR1 C1236T were as follows: Allelic model (T vs. C): OR = 1.06 [0.83, 1.35]; Additive model (TT vs. CC): OR = 0.91 [0.53, 1.56]; Dominant model (TT+CT vs. CC): OR = 0.83 [0.55, 1.24]; and Recessive model (TT vs. CT+CC): OR = 1.43 [0.95, 2.17]. However, for MDR1 C3435T: Allelic model (T vs. C): OR = 1.06 [0.83, 1.35]; Additive model (TT vs. CC): OR = 1.18 [0.75, 1.88]; Dominant model (TT+CT vs. CC): OR = 1.42 [0.99, 2.04]; and Recessive model (TT vs. CT+CC): OR = 0.90 [0.61, 1.33]. None of the four models presented a significant association of either polymorphism with the risk of infertility in men (p >.05). The present study indicates that MDR1 gene polymorphisms might not be a risk factor for male infertility. Further studies with a larger sample size are needed to be conducted to confirm the findings of the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anam Sohail
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife, and Fisheries, Pir Mehr Ali Shah, Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Adina Arshad
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife, and Fisheries, Pir Mehr Ali Shah, Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Tamjeed Tariq
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife, and Fisheries, Pir Mehr Ali Shah, Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Bibi
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife, and Fisheries, Pir Mehr Ali Shah, Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Shaista Aslam
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Irfan
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife, and Fisheries, Pir Mehr Ali Shah, Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
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Wang X, Liu X, Qu M, Li H. Sertoli cell-only syndrome: advances, challenges, and perspectives in genetics and mechanisms. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:67. [PMID: 36814036 PMCID: PMC11072804 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04723-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility can be caused by quantitative and/or qualitative abnormalities in spermatogenesis, which affects men's physical and mental health. Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) is the most severe histological phenotype of male infertility characterized by the depletion of germ cells with only Sertoli cells remaining in the seminiferous tubules. Most SCOS cases cannot be explained by the already known genetic causes including karyotype abnormalities and microdeletions of the Y chromosome. With the development of sequencing technology, studies on screening new genetic causes for SCOS are growing in recent years. Directly sequencing of target genes in sporadic cases and whole-exome sequencing applied in familial cases have identified several genes associated with SCOS. Analyses of the testicular transcriptome, proteome, and epigenetics in SCOS patients provide explanations regarding the molecular mechanisms of SCOS. In this review, we discuss the possible relationship between defective germline development and SCOS based on mouse models with SCO phenotype. We also summarize the advances and challenges in the exploration of genetic causes and mechanisms of SCOS. Knowing the genetic factors of SCOS offers a better understanding of SCO and human spermatogenesis, and it also has practical significance for improving diagnosis, making appropriate medical decisions, and genetic counseling. For therapeutic implications, SCOS research, along with the achievements in stem cell technologies and gene therapy, build the foundation to develop novel therapies for SCOS patients to produce functional spermatozoa, giving them hope to father children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, China
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xinyu Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, China
| | - Mengyuan Qu
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, China.
- Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, 430000, China.
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15
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New Mutations in DNHD1 Cause Multiple Morphological Abnormalities of the Sperm Flagella. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032559. [PMID: 36768883 PMCID: PMC9916431 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a common and complex disease and presents as a wide range of heterogeneous phenotypes. Multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagellum (MMAF) phenotype is a peculiar condition of extreme morphological sperm defects characterized by a mosaic of sperm flagellum defects to a total asthenozoospermia. At this time, about 40 genes were associated with the MMAF phenotype. However, mutation prevalence for most genes remains individually low and about half of individuals remain without diagnosis, encouraging us to pursue the effort to identify new mutations and genes. In the present study, an a cohort of 167 MMAF patients was analyzed using whole-exome sequencing, and we identified three unrelated patients with new pathogenic mutations in DNHD1, a new gene recently associated with MMAF. Immunofluorescence experiments showed that DNHD1 was totally absent from sperm cells from DNHD1 patients, supporting the deleterious effect of the identified mutations. Transmission electron microscopy reveals severe flagellum abnormalities of sperm cells from one mutated patient, which appeared completely disorganized with the absence of the central pair and midpiece defects with a shortened and misshapen mitochondrial sheath. Immunostaining of IFT20 was not altered in mutated patients, suggesting that IFT may be not affected by DNHD1 mutations. Our data confirmed the importance of DNHD1 for the function and structural integrity of the sperm flagellum. Overall, this study definitively consolidated its involvement in MMAF phenotype on a second independent cohort and enriched the mutational spectrum of the DNHD1 gene.
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16
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Jia X, Yin Z, Peng Y. Gene differential co-expression analysis of male infertility patients based on statistical and machine learning methods. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1092143. [PMID: 36778885 PMCID: PMC9911419 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1092143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility has always been one of the important factors affecting the infertility of couples of gestational age. The reasons that affect male infertility includes living habits, hereditary factors, etc. Identifying the genetic causes of male infertility can help us understand the biology of male infertility, as well as the diagnosis of genetic testing and the determination of clinical treatment options. While current research has made significant progress in the genes that cause sperm defects in men, genetic studies of sperm content defects are still lacking. This article is based on a dataset of gene expression data on the X chromosome in patients with azoospermia, mild and severe oligospermia. Due to the difference in the degree of disease between patients and the possible difference in genetic causes, common classical clustering methods such as k-means, hierarchical clustering, etc. cannot effectively identify samples (realize simultaneous clustering of samples and features). In this paper, we use machine learning and various statistical methods such as hypergeometric distribution, Gibbs sampling, Fisher test, etc. and genes the interaction network for cluster analysis of gene expression data of male infertility patients has certain advantages compared with existing methods. The cluster results were identified by differential co-expression analysis of gene expression data in male infertility patients, and the model recognition clusters were analyzed by multiple gene enrichment methods, showing different degrees of enrichment in various enzyme activities, cancer, virus-related, ATP and ADP production, and other pathways. At the same time, as this paper is an unsupervised analysis of genetic factors of male infertility patients, we constructed a simulated data set, in which the clustering results have been determined, which can be used to measure the effect of discriminant model recognition. Through comparison, it finds that the proposed model has a better identification effect.
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Genome-Wide Association Screening Determines Peripheral Players in Male Fertility Maintenance. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010524. [PMID: 36613967 PMCID: PMC9820667 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Deciphering the functional relationships of genes resulting from genome-wide screens for polymorphisms that are associated with phenotypic variations can be challenging. However, given the common association with certain phenotypes, a functional link should exist. We have tested this prediction in newly sequenced exomes of altogether 100 men representing different states of fertility. Fertile subjects presented with normal semen parameters and had naturally fathered offspring. In contrast, infertile probands were involuntarily childless and had reduced sperm quantity and quality. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) linked twelve non-synonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to fertility variation between both cohorts. The SNPs localized to nine genes for which previous evidence is in line with a role in male fertility maintenance: ANAPC1, CES1, FAM131C, HLA-DRB1, KMT2C, NOMO1, SAA1, SRGAP2, and SUSD2. Most of the SNPs residing in these genes imply amino acid exchanges that should only moderately affect protein functionality. In addition, proteins encoded by genes from present GWAS occupied peripheral positions in a protein-protein interaction network, the backbone of which consisted of genes listed in the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database for their implication in male infertility. Suggestive of an indirect impact on male fertility, the genes focused were indeed linked to each other, albeit mediated by other interactants. Thus, the chances of identifying a central player in male infertility by GWAS could be limited in general. Furthermore, the SNPs determined and the genes containing these might prove to have potential as biomarkers in the diagnosis of male fertility.
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Localization Patterns of RAB3C Are Associated with Murine and Human Sperm Formation. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:medicina58101408. [PMID: 36295569 PMCID: PMC9606999 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58101408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Septins (SEPTs) are highly conserved GTP-binding proteins and the fourth component of the cytoskeleton. Polymerization of SEPTs contributes to several critical cellular processes such as cytokinesis, cytoskeletal remodeling, and vesicle transportation. In our previous study, we found that SEPT14 mutations resulted in teratozoospermia with >87% sperm morphological defects. SEPT14 interactors were also identified through proteomic assays, and one of the peptides was mapped to RAB3B and RAB3C. Most studies on the RAB3 family have focused on RAB3A, which regulates the exocytosis of neurotransmitters and acrosome reactions. However, the general expression and patterns of the RAB3 family members during human spermatogenesis, and the association between RAB3 and teratozoospermia owing to a SEPT14 mutation, are largely unknown. Materials and Methods: Human sperm and murine male germ cells were collected in this study and immunofluorescence analysis was applied on the collected sperm. Results: In this study, we observed that the RAB3C transcripts were more abundant than those of RAB3A, 3B, and 3D in human testicular tissues. During human spermatogenesis, the RAB3C protein is mainly enriched in elongated spermatids, and RAB3B is undetectable. In mature human spermatozoa, RAB3C is concentrated in the postacrosomal region, neck, and midpiece. The RAB3C signals were delocalized within human spermatozoa harboring the SEPT14 mutation, and the decreased signals were accompanied by a defective head and tail, compared with the healthy controls. To determine whether RAB3C is involved in the morphological formation of the head and tail of the sperm, we separated murine testicular tissue and isolated elongated spermatids for further study. We found that RAB3C is particularly expressed in the manchette structure, which assists sperm head shaping at the spermatid head, and is also localized at the sperm tail. Conclusions: Based on these results, we suggest that the localization of RAB3C proteins in murine and human sperm is associated with SEPT14 mutation-induced morphological defects in sperm.
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Wyrwoll MJ, Gaasbeek CM, Golubickaite I, Stakaitis R, Oud MS, Nagirnaja L, Dion C, Sindi EB, Leitch HG, Jayasena CN, Sironen A, Dicke AK, Rotte N, Stallmeyer B, Kliesch S, Grangeiro CHP, Araujo TF, Lasko P, D'Hauwers K, Smits RM, Ramos L, Xavier MJ, Conrad DF, Almstrup K, Veltman JA, Tüttelmann F, van der Heijden GW. The piRNA-pathway factor FKBP6 is essential for spermatogenesis but dispensable for control of meiotic LINE-1 expression in humans. Am J Hum Genet 2022; 109:1850-1866. [PMID: 36150389 PMCID: PMC9606565 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects around 7% of the male population and can be due to severe spermatogenic failure (SPGF), resulting in no or very few sperm in the ejaculate. We initially identified a homozygous frameshift variant in FKBP6 in a man with extreme oligozoospermia. Subsequently, we screened a total of 2,699 men with SPGF and detected rare bi-allelic loss-of-function variants in FKBP6 in five additional persons. All six individuals had no or extremely few sperm in the ejaculate, which were not suitable for medically assisted reproduction. Evaluation of testicular tissue revealed an arrest at the stage of round spermatids. Lack of FKBP6 expression in the testis was confirmed by RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence staining. In mice, Fkbp6 is essential for spermatogenesis and has been described as being involved in piRNA biogenesis and formation of the synaptonemal complex (SC). We did not detect FKBP6 as part of the SC in normal human spermatocytes, but small RNA sequencing revealed that loss of FKBP6 severely impacted piRNA levels, supporting a role for FKBP6 in piRNA biogenesis in humans. In contrast to findings in piRNA-pathway mouse models, we did not detect an increase in LINE-1 expression in men with pathogenic FKBP6 variants. Based on our findings, FKBP6 reaches a "strong" level of evidence for being associated with male infertility according to the ClinGen criteria, making it directly applicable for clinical diagnostics. This will improve patient care by providing a causal diagnosis and will help to predict chances for successful surgical sperm retrieval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margot J Wyrwoll
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Channah M Gaasbeek
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Ieva Golubickaite
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA; Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Rytis Stakaitis
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA; Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Laboratory of Molecular Neurooncology, Neuroscience Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Manon S Oud
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Liina Nagirnaja
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Camille Dion
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, London, UK; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Emad B Sindi
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Harry G Leitch
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, London, UK; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK; Centre for Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Channa N Jayasena
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Anu Sironen
- Natural Resources Institute Finland, Production Systems, Jokioinen, Finland; Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ann-Kristin Dicke
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Nadja Rotte
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Birgit Stallmeyer
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Thaís F Araujo
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Paul Lasko
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Biology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Roos M Smits
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Liliana Ramos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Miguel J Xavier
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Don F Conrad
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Joris A Veltman
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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20
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Hardy J, Pollock N, Gingrich T, Sweet P, Ramesh A, Kuong J, Basar A, Jiang H, Hwang K, Vukina J, Jaffe T, Olszewska M, Kurpisz M, Yatsenko AN. Genomic testing for copy number and single nucleotide variants in spermatogenic failure. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2103-2114. [PMID: 35849255 PMCID: PMC9474750 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02538-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify clinically significant genomic copy number (CNV) and single nucleotide variants (SNV) in males with unexplained spermatogenic failure (SPGF). MATERIALS AND METHODS Peripheral blood DNA from 97/102 study participants diagnosed with oligozoospermia, severe oligozoospermia, or non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) was analyzed for CNVs via array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and SNVs using whole-exome sequencing (WES). RESULTS Of the 2544 CNVs identified in individuals with SPGF, > 90% were small, ranging from 0.6 to 75 kb. Thirty, clinically relevant genomic aberrations, were detected in 28 patients (~ 29%). These included likely diagnostic CNVs in 3/41 NOA patients (~ 7%): 1 hemizygous, intragenic TEX11 deletion, 1 hemizygous DDX53 full gene deletion, and 1 homozygous, intragenic STK11 deletion. High-level mosaicism for X chromosome disomy (~ 10% 46,XY and ~ 90% 47,XXY) was also identified in 3 of 41 NOA patients who previously tested normal with conventional karyotyping. The remaining 24 CNVs detected were heterozygous, autosomal recessive carrier variants. Follow-up WES analysis confirmed 8 of 27 (30%) CNVs (X chromosome disomy excluded). WES analysis additionally identified 13 significant SNVs and/or indels in 9 patients (~ 9%) including X-linked AR, KAL1, and NR0B1 variants. CONCLUSION Using a combined genome-wide aCGH/WES approach, we identified pathogenic and likely pathogenic SNVs and CNVs in 15 patients (15%) with unexplained SPGF. This value equals the detection rate of conventional testing for aneuploidies and is considerably higher than the prevalence of Y chromosome microdeletions. Our results underscore the importance of comprehensive genomic analysis in emerging diagnostic testing of complex conditions like male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Hardy
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - N Pollock
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - T Gingrich
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - P Sweet
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - A Ramesh
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - J Kuong
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - A Basar
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - H Jiang
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - K Hwang
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - J Vukina
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - T Jaffe
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - M Olszewska
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - M Kurpisz
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - A N Yatsenko
- Department of OBGYN and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
- Department of Genetics, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.
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21
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Assidi M. Infertility in Men: Advances towards a Comprehensive and Integrative Strategy for Precision Theranostics. Cells 2022; 11:cells11101711. [PMID: 35626747 PMCID: PMC9139678 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is an increasing and serious medical concern, though the mechanism remains poorly understood. Impaired male reproductive function affects approximately half of infertile couples worldwide. Multiple factors related to the environment, genetics, age, and comorbidities have been associated with impaired sperm function. Present-day clinicians rely primarily on standard semen analysis to diagnose male reproductive potential and develop treatment strategies. To address sperm quality assessment bias and enhance analysis accuracy, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended standardized sperm testing; however, conventional diagnostic and therapeutic options for male infertility, including physical examination and semen standard analysis, remain ineffective in relieving the associated social burden. Instead, assisted reproductive techniques are becoming the primary therapeutic approach. In the post-genomic era, multiomics technologies that deeply interrogate the genome, transcriptome, proteome, and/or the epigenome, even at single-cell level, besides the breakthroughs in robotic surgery, stem cell therapy, and big data, offer promises towards solving semen quality deterioration and male factor infertility. This review highlights the complex etiology of male infertility, especially the roles of lifestyle and environmental factors, and discusses advanced technologies/methodologies used in characterizing its pathophysiology. A comprehensive combination of these innovative approaches in a global and multi-centric setting and fulfilling the suitable ethical consent could ensure optimal reproductive and developmental outcomes. These combinatorial approaches should allow for the development of diagnostic markers, molecular stratification classes, and personalized treatment strategies. Since lifestyle choices and environmental factors influence male fertility, their integration in any comprehensive approach is required for safe, proactive, cost-effective, and noninvasive precision male infertility theranostics that are affordable, accessible, and facilitate couples realizing their procreation dream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mourad Assidi
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80216, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; ; Tel.: +966-(012)-6402000 (ext. 69267)
- Medical Laboratory Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80216, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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22
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Kadiyska T, Tourtourikov I, Dabchev K, Madzharova D, Tincheva S, Spandidos DA, Zoumpourlis V. Role of testis‑specific serine kinase 1B in undiagnosed male infertility. Mol Med Rep 2022; 25:204. [PMID: 35485285 PMCID: PMC9073834 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2022.12720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a global problem affecting a considerable part of the male population. Current guidelines and practices aimed at diagnosing the cause of this problem still have low diagnostic yield. As novel candidate genes for infertility emerge, their functional role needs to be investigated in patient populations. The present study aimed to investigate testis-specific serine kinase 1B (TSSK1B), which was discovered in a previously diagnosed patient. Sanger sequencing of the coding regions and exon borders of TSSK1B was performed in a cohort of 100 male Bulgarian patients with unresolved infertility causes. Missense mutations were discovered in 10% of patients and were associated with clinical data on sperm dysmorphology. Two previously unreported mutations were discovered, p.3D>N and p.52F>L. All mutations were scored via in silico predictors and protein modelling using AlphaFold2. The present findings indicated an association between TSSK1B mutations and asthenoteratozoospermia, with further missense mutations in patients with azoospermia and teratozoospermia. Mutations in TSSK1B may be a cause of undiagnosed cases of male infertility and should be considered when molecular diagnostics are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Kadiyska
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University, 1413 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | | | | | | | - Savina Tincheva
- Genetic Medico‑Diagnostic Laboratory 'Genica', 1612 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Demetrios A Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - Vassilis Zoumpourlis
- Biomedical Applications Unit, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece
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23
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Kamel A, Saberiyan M, Mirfakhraie R, Teimori H. Reduced expression of CFAP44 and CFAP44-AS1 may affect sperm motility and morphology. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14447. [PMID: 35470451 DOI: 10.1111/and.14447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Motility and morphology are two important characteristics of a fertile spermatozoon. CFAP44 gene encodes flagellar protein 44 involved in the formation and function of the flagella and cilia. Long non-coding RNAs are regulatory elements involved in several processes, including reproduction. We aimed to study the alterations in the expressions of CFAP44 and CFAP44-AS1 genes in infertile men with asthenozoospermia and terato-asthenozoospermia. In this case-control study, a total of 105 subjects, including 35 TAZ patients, 34 AZ patients and 35 normozoospermic men, were enrolled. After RNA extraction from spermatozoa samples, quantitative real-time PCR was performed to compare the expression of CFAP44 and CFAP44-AS1 between the studied groups. A meaningful reduction in CFAP44 expression and a significant reduction in the expression of CFAP44-AS1 were observed. Moreover, a positive correlation between both genes' expressions and normal sperm morphology was detected in NZ, AZ and TAZ groups. Also, there was a positive relation between CFAP44 gene expression and sperm motility in AZ and TAZ groups. The expression of CFAP44-AS1 was positively correlated with sperm motility and morphology. Present results confirm the role of CFAP44 and CFAP44-AS1 in the motility and morphology of spermatozoon, and deregulation of these genes may contribute to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Kamel
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Saberiyan
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Reza Mirfakhraie
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Teimori
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
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24
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Martinez G, Coutton C, Loeuillet C, Cazin C, Muroňová J, Boguenet M, Lambert E, Dhellemmes M, Chevalier G, Hograindleur JP, Vilpreux C, Neirijnck Y, Kherraf ZE, Escoffier J, Nef S, Ray PF, Arnoult C. Oligogenic heterozygous inheritance of sperm abnormalities in mouse. eLife 2022; 11:75373. [PMID: 35451961 PMCID: PMC9071268 DOI: 10.7554/elife.75373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is an important health concern that is expected to have a major genetic etiology. Although high-throughput sequencing has linked gene defects to more than 50% of rare and severe sperm anomalies, less than 20% of common and moderate forms are explained. We hypothesized that this low success rate could at least be partly due to oligogenic defects – the accumulation of several rare heterozygous variants in distinct, but functionally connected, genes. Here, we compared fertility and sperm parameters in male mice harboring one to four heterozygous truncating mutations of genes linked to multiple morphological anomalies of the flagellum (MMAF) syndrome. Results indicated progressively deteriorating sperm morphology and motility with increasing numbers of heterozygous mutations. This first evidence of oligogenic inheritance in failed spermatogenesis strongly suggests that oligogenic heterozygosity could explain a significant proportion of asthenoteratozoospermia cases. The findings presented pave the way to further studies in mice and man.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Corinne Loeuillet
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Jana Muroňová
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Magalie Boguenet
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Emeline Lambert
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Magali Dhellemmes
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Geneviève Chevalier
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Charline Vilpreux
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Yasmine Neirijnck
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, Genève, Switzerland
| | - Zine Eddine Kherraf
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Jessica Escoffier
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pierre F Ray
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Christophe Arnoult
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM, CNRS, University Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
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25
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CEP128 is involved in spermatogenesis in humans and mice. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1395. [PMID: 35296684 PMCID: PMC8927350 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29109-7] [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: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Centrosomal proteins are necessary components of the centrosome, a conserved eukaryotic organelle essential to the reproductive process. However, few centrosomal proteins have been genetically linked to fertility. Herein we identify a homozygous missense variant of CEP128 (c.665 G > A [p.R222Q]) in two infertile males. Remarkably, male homozygous knock-in mice harboring the orthologous CEP128R222Q variant show anomalies in sperm morphology, count, and motility. Moreover, Cep128 knock-out mice manifest male infertility associated with disrupted sperm quality. We observe defective sperm flagella in both homozygous Cep128 KO and KI mice; the cilia development in other organs is normal—suggesting that CEP128 variants predominantly affected the ciliogenesis in the testes. Mechanistically, CEP128 is involved in male reproduction via regulating the expression of genes and/or the phosphorylation of TGF-β/BMP-signalling members during spermatogenesis. Altogether, our findings unveil a crucial role for CEP128 in male fertility and provide important insights into the functions of centrosomal proteins in reproductive biology. CEP128 is a centrosomal protein important for the organization of centriolar microtubules. Here, the authors show that a CEP128 variant observed in human male siblings causes reduced sperm counts and morphologically abnormal sperm when modeled in mice, suggesting a role for CEP128 in male fertility.
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Fang F, Iaquinta PJ, Xia N, Liu L, Diao L, Reijo Pera RA. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:313-345. [PMID: 35297982 PMCID: PMC9071081 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathways of gametogenesis encompass elaborate cellular specialization accompanied by precise partitioning of the genome content in order to produce fully matured spermatozoa and oocytes. Transcription factors are an important class of molecules that function in gametogenesis to regulate intrinsic gene expression programs, play essential roles in specifying (or determining) germ cell fate and assist in guiding full maturation of germ cells and maintenance of their populations. Moreover, in order to reinforce or redirect cell fate in vitro, it is transcription factors that are most frequently induced, over-expressed or activated. Many reviews have focused on the molecular development and genetics of gametogenesis, in vivo and in vitro, in model organisms and in humans, including several recent comprehensive reviews: here, we focus specifically on the role of transcription factors. Recent advances in stem cell biology and multi-omic studies have enabled deeper investigation into the unique transcriptional mechanisms of human reproductive development. Moreover, as methods continually improve, in vitro differentiation of germ cells can provide the platform for robust gain- and loss-of-function genetic analyses. These analyses are delineating unique and shared human germ cell transcriptional network components that, together with somatic lineage specifiers and pluripotency transcription factors, function in transitions from pluripotent stem cells to gametes. This grand theme review offers additional insight into human infertility and reproductive disorders that are linked predominantly to defects in the transcription factor networks and thus may potentially contribute to the development of novel treatments for infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Fang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Phillip J Iaquinta
- Division of Research, Economic Development, and Graduate Education, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
| | - Ninuo Xia
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Lei Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Lei Diao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Renee A Reijo Pera
- Division of Research, Economic Development, and Graduate Education, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
- McLaughlin Research Institute, Great Falls, MT, USA
- Correspondence address. McLaughlin Research Institute, 1520 23rd Street South, Great Falls, MT 59405, USA. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6487-1329
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Pacchierotti F, Ardoino L, Benassi B, Consales C, Cordelli E, Eleuteri P, Marino C, Sciortino M, Brinkworth MH, Chen G, McNamee JP, Wood AW, Hooijmans CR, de Vries RBM. Effects of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Field (RF-EMF) exposure on male fertility and pregnancy and birth outcomes: Protocols for a systematic review of experimental studies in non-human mammals and in human sperm exposed in vitro. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 157:106806. [PMID: 34454359 PMCID: PMC8484860 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields (RF-EMF) at environmental level have been reported to induce adverse effects on the male reproductive system and developing embryos. However, despite the number of experiments conducted since the 1970s, the diversity of testing approaches and exposure conditions, inconsistencies among results, and dosimetric flaws have not yet permitted a solid assessment of the relationship between RF-EMF exposure and such effects, warranting a more systematic and methodologically rigorous approach to the evaluation of available data. OBJECTIVES This study aims at evaluating the effects of RF-EMF exposure on male fertility and pregnancy outcomes by a systematic review (SR) of experimental studies, conducted in compliance with international guidelines. The evidence will be organized into three streams: 1) Studies evaluating the impact of RF-EMF on the male reproductive system of experimental mammals; 2) studies evaluating the impact of RF-EMF on human sperm exposed in vitro; 3) studies evaluating the impact of RF-EMF on adverse pregnancy, birth outcomes and delayed effects in experimental mammals exposed in utero. STUDY ELIGIBILITY AND CRITERIA Eligible studies will include peer-reviewed articles reporting of original results about effects of controlled exposures to RF-EMF in the frequency range 100 kHz-300 GHz on the selected outcomes without any language or year-of-publication restrictions. Eligible studies will be retrieved by calibrated search strings applied to three electronic databases, PubMed, Scopus and EMF Portal and by manual search of the list of references of included papers and published reviews. STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHOD The internal validity of the studies will be evaluated using the Risk of Bias (RoB) Rating Tool developed by National Toxicology Program/Office of Health Assessment and Translation (NTP/OHAT) integrated with input from the SYRCLE RoB tool. Given sufficient commensurate data, meta-analyses will be performed, otherwise narrative syntheses will be produced. Finally, the certainty of the effects of RF-EMF exposure on male fertility and pregnancy and birth outcomes will be established following GRADE. FUNDING The study is financially supported by the World Health Organization. REGISTRATION OSF Registration DOI https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/7MUS3; PROSPERO CRD42021227729, CRD42021227746.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Pacchierotti
- Division Health Protection Technologies, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy.
| | - Lucia Ardoino
- Division Health Protection Technologies, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Benassi
- Division Health Protection Technologies, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Consales
- Division Health Protection Technologies, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenia Cordelli
- Division Health Protection Technologies, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Eleuteri
- Division Health Protection Technologies, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Carmela Marino
- Division Health Protection Technologies, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Sciortino
- Section Technology Transfer to Developing Countries Relating to Climate Change, ENEA, Rome, Italy
| | - Martin H Brinkworth
- School of Chemistry and Bioscience, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | - Guangdi Chen
- Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - James P McNamee
- Non-Ionizing Radiation Health Sciences Division, Consumer and Clinical Radiation Protection Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Andrew William Wood
- Department of Health Sciences and Biostatistics, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Australia
| | - Carlijn R Hooijmans
- SYRCLE, Department for Health Evidence, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Rob B M de Vries
- SYRCLE, Department for Health Evidence, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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28
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Wang X, Qu M, Li Z, Long Y, Hong K, Li H. Valproic acid promotes the in vitro differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into spermatogonial stem cell-like cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:553. [PMID: 34715904 PMCID: PMC8555208 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02621-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studying human germ cell development and male infertility is heavily relied on mouse models. In vitro differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into spermatogonial stem cell-like cells (SSCLCs) can be used as a model to study human germ cells and infertility. The current study aimed to develop the SSCLC induction protocol and assess the effects of the developed protocol on SSCLC induction. Methods We examined the effects of valproic acid (VPA), vitamin C (VC) and the combination of VPA and VC on the SSCLC induction efficiency and determined the expression of spermatogonial genes of differentiated cells. Haploid cells and cells expressed meiotic genes were also detected. RNA-seq analysis was performed to compare the transcriptome between cells at 0 and 12 days of differentiation and differently expressed genes were confirmed by RT-qPCR. We further evaluated the alteration in histone marks (H3K9ac and H3K27me3) at 12 days of differentiation. Moreover, the SSCLC induction efficiency of two hiPSC lines of non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) patients was assessed using different induction protocols. Results The combination of low concentrations of VPA and VC in the induction medium was most effective to induce SSCLCs expressing several spermatogonial genes from human pluripotent stem cells at 12 days of differentiation. The high concentration of VPA was more effective to induce cells expressing meiotic genes and haploid cells. RNA-seq analysis revealed that the induction of SSCLC involved the upregulated genes in Wnt signaling pathway, and cells at 12 days of differentiation showed increased H3K9ac and decreased H3K27me3. Additionally, two hiPSC lines of NOA patients showed low SSCLC induction efficiency and decreased expression of genes in Wnt signaling pathway. Conclusions VPA robustly promoted the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into SSCLCs, which involved the upregulated genes in Wnt signaling pathway and epigenetic changes. hiPSCs from NOA patients showed decreased SSCLC induction efficiency and Wnt signaling pathway gene expression, suggesting that SSC depletion in azoospermia testes might be associated with inactivation of Wnt signaling pathway. Our developed SSCLC induction protocol provides a reliable tool and model to study human germ cell development and male infertility. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02621-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Mengyuan Qu
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Zili Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yuting Long
- Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Hospital, Wuhan, 430013, China
| | - Kai Hong
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China. .,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Hospital, Wuhan, 430013, China.
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Integration and gene co-expression network analysis of scRNA-seq transcriptomes reveal heterogeneity and key functional genes in human spermatogenesis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19089. [PMID: 34580317 PMCID: PMC8476490 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98267-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process of cellular division and differentiation that begins with spermatogonia stem cells and leads to functional spermatozoa production. However, many of the molecular mechanisms underlying this process remain unclear. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is used to sequence the entire transcriptome at the single-cell level to assess cell-to-cell variability. In this study, more than 33,000 testicular cells from different scRNA-seq datasets with normal spermatogenesis were integrated to identify single-cell heterogeneity on a more comprehensive scale. Clustering, cell type assignments, differential expressed genes and pseudotime analysis characterized 5 spermatogonia, 4 spermatocyte, and 4 spermatid cell types during the spermatogenesis process. The UTF1 and ID4 genes were introduced as the most specific markers that can differentiate two undifferentiated spermatogonia stem cell sub-cellules. The C7orf61 and TNP can differentiate two round spermatid sub-cellules. The topological analysis of the weighted gene co-expression network along with the integrated scRNA-seq data revealed some bridge genes between spermatogenesis's main stages such as DNAJC5B, C1orf194, HSP90AB1, BST2, EEF1A1, CRISP2, PTMS, NFKBIA, CDKN3, and HLA-DRA. The importance of these key genes is confirmed by their role in male infertility in previous studies. It can be stated that, this integrated scRNA-seq of spermatogenic cells offers novel insights into cell-to-cell heterogeneity and suggests a list of key players with a pivotal role in male infertility from the fertile spermatogenesis datasets. These key functional genes can be introduced as candidates for filtering and prioritizing genotype-to-phenotype association in male infertility.
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Nosková A, Hiltpold M, Janett F, Echtermann T, Fang ZH, Sidler X, Selige C, Hofer A, Neuenschwander S, Pausch H. Infertility due to defective sperm flagella caused by an intronic deletion in DNAH17 that perturbs splicing. Genetics 2021; 217:6041611. [PMID: 33724408 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyaa033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination in pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) breeding involves the evaluation of the semen quality of breeding boars. Ejaculates that fulfill predefined quality requirements are processed, diluted and used for inseminations. Within short time, eight Swiss Large White boars producing immotile sperm that had multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella were noticed at a semen collection center. The eight boars were inbred on a common ancestor suggesting that the novel sperm flagella defect is a recessive trait. Transmission electron microscopy cross-sections revealed that the immotile sperm had disorganized flagellar axonemes. Haplotype-based association testing involving microarray-derived genotypes at 41,094 SNPs of six affected and 100 fertile boars yielded strong association (P = 4.22 × 10-15) at chromosome 12. Autozygosity mapping enabled us to pinpoint the causal mutation on a 1.11 Mb haplotype located between 3,473,632 and 4,587,759 bp. The haplotype carries an intronic 13-bp deletion (Chr12:3,556,401-3,556,414 bp) that is compatible with recessive inheritance. The 13-bp deletion excises the polypyrimidine tract upstream exon 56 of DNAH17 (XM_021066525.1: c.8510-17_8510-5del) encoding dynein axonemal heavy chain 17. Transcriptome analysis of the testis of two affected boars revealed that the loss of the polypyrimidine tract causes exon skipping which results in the in-frame loss of 89 amino acids from DNAH17. Disruption of DNAH17 impairs the assembly of the flagellar axoneme and manifests in multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella. Direct gene testing may now be implemented to monitor the defective allele in the Swiss Large White population and prevent the frequent manifestation of a sterilizing sperm tail disorder in breeding boars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adéla Nosková
- Animal Genomics, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zürich, 8315 Lindau, Switzerland
| | - Maya Hiltpold
- Animal Genomics, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zürich, 8315 Lindau, Switzerland
| | - Fredi Janett
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Echtermann
- Division of Swine Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Zih-Hua Fang
- Animal Genomics, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zürich, 8315 Lindau, Switzerland
| | - Xaver Sidler
- Division of Swine Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Stefan Neuenschwander
- Animal Genetics, Institute of Agricultural Science, ETH Zürich, 8092 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Hubert Pausch
- Animal Genomics, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zürich, 8315 Lindau, Switzerland
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Zhang X, Li M, Jiang X, Ma H, Fan S, Li Y, Yu C, Xu J, Khan R, Jiang H, Shi Q. Nuclear translocation of MTL5 from cytoplasm requires its direct interaction with LIN9 and is essential for male meiosis and fertility. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009753. [PMID: 34388164 PMCID: PMC8386835 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Meiosis is essential for the generation of gametes and sexual reproduction, yet the factors and underlying mechanisms regulating meiotic progression remain largely unknown. Here, we showed that MTL5 translocates into nuclei of spermatocytes during zygotene-pachytene transition and ensures meiosis advances beyond pachytene stage. MTL5 shows strong interactions with MuvB core complex components, a well-known transcriptional complex regulating mitotic progression, and the zygotene-pachytene transition of MTL5 is mediated by its direct interaction with the component LIN9, through MTL5 C-terminal 443–475 residues. Male Mtl5c-mu/c-mu mice expressing the truncated MTL5 (p.Ser445Arg fs*3) that lacks the interaction with LIN9 and is detained in cytoplasm showed male infertility and spermatogenic arrest at pachytene stage, same as that of Mtl5 knockout mice, indicating that the interaction with LIN9 is essential for the nuclear translocation and function of MTL5 during meiosis. Our data demonstrated MTL5 translocates into nuclei during the zygotene-pachytene transition to initiate its function along with the MuvB core complex in pachytene spermatocytes, highlighting a new mechanism regulating the progression of male meiosis. Meiosis is essential for spermatogenesis and male fertility. However, the factors regulating the progression of meiosis remain largely unknown. We reported the testis specific protein MTL5 translocated into the nuclei of spermatocytes at the zygotene-pachytene transition by direct interaction with LIN9, which is an essential component of MuvB core complex, to promote meiotic progression beyond the pachytene stage. We also showed that MTL5 pulls down MYBL1 and all of the MuvB core complex (except LIN54) in spermatocytes. Given the known role of the MuvB core complex as a cell cycle regulator in mitotic cells, we suggested that MTL5 promotes meiotic progression along with the MuvB core complex to ensure male fertility. Our results indicated a novel function of the MuvB complex in male meiosis and also shed light on the master regulator proteins that control meiotic progression at the pachytene stage. MTL5 is a novel and germ-cell specific regulator of cell cycle progression to function at a specific stage by nuclear translocation in meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxia Zhang
- First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ming Li
- First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaohua Jiang
- First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- * E-mail: (XJ); (HJ); (QS)
| | - Hui Ma
- First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Suixing Fan
- First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yang Li
- First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Changping Yu
- First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jianze Xu
- First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ranjha Khan
- First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Hanwei Jiang
- First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- * E-mail: (XJ); (HJ); (QS)
| | - Qinghua Shi
- First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- * E-mail: (XJ); (HJ); (QS)
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Eggermann T. Maternal Effect Mutations: A Novel Cause for Human Reproductive Failure. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2021; 81:780-788. [PMID: 34294945 PMCID: PMC8288500 DOI: 10.1055/a-1396-4390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic alterations significantly contribute to the aetiology of reproductive failure and comprise monogenic, chromosomal and epigenetic disturbances. The implementation of next-generation sequencing (NGS) based approaches in research and diagnostics allows the comprehensive analysis of these genetic causes, and the increasing detection rates of genetic mutations causing reproductive complications confirm the potential of the new techniques. Whereas mutations affecting the fetal genome are well known to affect pregnancies and their outcome, the contribution of alterations of the maternal genome was widely unclear. With the recent mainly NGS-based identification of maternal effect variants, a new cause of human reproductive failure has been identified. Maternal effect mutations affect the expression of subcortical maternal complex (SCMC) proteins from the maternal genome, and thereby disturb oocyte maturation and progression of the early embryo. They cause a broad range of reproductive failures and pregnancy complications, including infertility, miscarriages, hydatidiform moles, aneuploidies and imprinting disturbances in the fetus. The identification of women carrying these molecular alterations in SCMC encoding genes is therefore essential for a personalised reproductive and genetic counselling. The diagnostic application of new NGS-based assays allows the comprehensive analysis of these factors, and helps to further decipher these functional links between the factors and their disturbances. A close interdisciplinary collaboration between different disciplines is definitely required to further decipher the complex regulation of early embryo development, and to translate the basic research results into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Eggermann
- Institute of Human Genetics, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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33
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Sha Y, Liu W, Wei X, Zhu X, Tang B, Zhang X, Yang X, Wang Y, Wang X. Pathogenic variants of ATG4D in infertile men with non-obstructive azoospermia identified using whole-exome sequencing. Clin Genet 2021; 100:280-291. [PMID: 33988247 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is the most severe form of male infertility, and it is primarily associated with genetic defects. We performed whole-exome sequencing of 236 patients with NOA and identified a homozygous pathogenic variant of autophagy-related 4D cysteine peptidase (ATG4D) in two siblings from a consanguineous family and compound heterozygous pathogenic variants of ATG4D in two sporadic cases. The expression of LC3B, a regulator of autophagic activity, was significantly decreased, and the apoptosis rate of spermatogenic cells in testicular tissues was increased. Transfection of GC-2spd cells with a ATG4D mutant plasmid (Flag-Atg4dmut ) significantly decreased the expression level of Lc3b and increased the rate of apoptosis. Moreover, a pathogenic variant in X-linked ATG4A and compound heterozygous pathogenic variants of ATG4B were identified in one patient each. All novel variants were segregated by disease phenotype and were predicted to be pathogenic. Our findings revealed that autophagy-related cysteine peptidase family genes may play crucial roles in human spermatogenesis and identified ATG4D as a novel candidate gene for male infertility due to NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanwei Sha
- Department of Andrology, United Diagnostic and Research Centre for Clinical Genetics, School of Public Health & Women and Children's Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Wensheng Liu
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Wei
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xingshen Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Bowen Tang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xiaoya Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Centre of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yifeng Wang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiong Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
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Variants in GCNA, X-linked germ-cell genome integrity gene, identified in men with primary spermatogenic failure. Hum Genet 2021; 140:1169-1182. [PMID: 33963445 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-021-02287-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility impacts millions of couples yet, the etiology of primary infertility remains largely unknown. A critical element of successful spermatogenesis is maintenance of genome integrity. Here, we present a genomic study of spermatogenic failure (SPGF). Our initial analysis (n = 176) did not reveal known gene-candidates but identified a potentially significant single-nucleotide variant (SNV) in X-linked germ-cell nuclear antigen (GCNA). Together with a larger follow-up study (n = 2049), 7 likely clinically relevant GCNA variants were identified. GCNA is critical for genome integrity in male meiosis and knockout models exhibit impaired spermatogenesis and infertility. Single-cell RNA-seq and immunohistochemistry confirm human GCNA expression from spermatogonia to elongated spermatids. Five identified SNVs were located in key functional regions, including N-terminal SUMO-interacting motif and C-terminal Spartan-like protease domain. Notably, variant p.Ala115ProfsTer7 results in an early frameshift, while Spartan-like domain missense variants p.Ser659Trp and p.Arg664Cys change conserved residues, likely affecting 3D structure. For variants within GCNA's intrinsically disordered region, we performed computational modeling for consensus motifs. Two SNVs were predicted to impact the structure of these consensus motifs. All identified variants have an extremely low minor allele frequency in the general population and 6 of 7 were not detected in > 5000 biological fathers. Considering evidence from animal models, germ-cell-specific expression, 3D modeling, and computational predictions for SNVs, we propose that identified GCNA variants disrupt structure and function of the respective protein domains, ultimately arresting germ-cell division. To our knowledge, this is the first study implicating GCNA, a key genome integrity factor, in human male infertility.
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35
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Genetics of Azoospermia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063264. [PMID: 33806855 PMCID: PMC8004677 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Azoospermia affects 1% of men, and it can be due to: (i) hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction, (ii) primary quantitative spermatogenic disturbances, (iii) urogenital duct obstruction. Known genetic factors contribute to all these categories, and genetic testing is part of the routine diagnostic workup of azoospermic men. The diagnostic yield of genetic tests in azoospermia is different in the different etiological categories, with the highest in Congenital Bilateral Absence of Vas Deferens (90%) and the lowest in Non-Obstructive Azoospermia (NOA) due to primary testicular failure (~30%). Whole-Exome Sequencing allowed the discovery of an increasing number of monogenic defects of NOA with a current list of 38 candidate genes. These genes are of potential clinical relevance for future gene panel-based screening. We classified these genes according to the associated-testicular histology underlying the NOA phenotype. The validation and the discovery of novel NOA genes will radically improve patient management. Interestingly, approximately 37% of candidate genes are shared in human male and female gonadal failure, implying that genetic counselling should be extended also to female family members of NOA patients.
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Krausz C. Editorial for the special issue on the molecular genetics of male infertility. Hum Genet 2021; 140:1-5. [PMID: 33337534 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-020-02245-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Csilla Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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La H, Yoo H, Lee EJ, Thang NX, Choi HJ, Oh J, Park JH, Hong K. Insights from the Applications of Single-Cell Transcriptomic Analysis in Germ Cell Development and Reproductive Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:E823. [PMID: 33467661 PMCID: PMC7829788 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanistic understanding of germ cell formation at a genome-scale level can aid in developing novel therapeutic strategies for infertility. Germ cell formation is a complex process that is regulated by various mechanisms, including epigenetic regulation, germ cell-specific gene transcription, and meiosis. Gonads contain a limited number of germ cells at various stages of differentiation. Hence, genome-scale analysis of germ cells at the single-cell level is challenging. Conventional genome-scale approaches cannot delineate the landscape of genomic, transcriptomic, and epigenomic diversity or heterogeneity in the differentiating germ cells of gonads. Recent advances in single-cell genomic techniques along with single-cell isolation methods, such as microfluidics and fluorescence-activated cell sorting, have helped elucidate the mechanisms underlying germ cell development and reproductive disorders in humans. In this review, the history of single-cell transcriptomic analysis and their technical advantages over the conventional methods have been discussed. Additionally, recent applications of single-cell transcriptomic analysis for analyzing germ cells have been summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kwonho Hong
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Institute of Advanced Regenerative Science, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (H.L.); (H.Y.); (E.J.L.); (N.X.T.); (H.J.C.); (J.O.); (J.H.P.)
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Spinal muscular atrophy: Broad disease spectrum and sex-specific phenotypes. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166063. [PMID: 33412266 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.166063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is one of the major genetic disorders associated with infant mortality. More than 90% of cases of SMA result from deletions of or mutations in the Survival Motor Neuron 1 (SMN1) gene. SMN2, a nearly identical copy of SMN1, does not compensate for the loss of SMN1 due to predominant skipping of exon 7. The spectrum of SMA is broad, ranging from prenatal death to infant mortality to survival into adulthood. All tissues, including brain, spinal cord, bone, skeletal muscle, heart, lung, liver, pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, kidney, spleen, ovary and testis, are directly and/or indirectly affected in SMA. Accumulating evidence on impaired mitochondrial biogenesis and defects in X chromosome-linked modifying factors, coupled with the sexual dimorphic nature of many tissues, point to sex-specific vulnerabilities in SMA. Here we review the role of sex in the pathogenesis of SMA.
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Pini T, Raubenheimer D, Simpson SJ, Crean AJ. Obesity and Male Reproduction; Placing the Western Diet in Context. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:622292. [PMID: 33776921 PMCID: PMC7991841 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.622292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
There is mounting evidence that obesity has negative repercussions for reproductive physiology in males. Much of this evidence has accumulated from rodent studies employing diets high in fat and sugar ("high fat" or "western" diets). While excessive fats and carbohydrates have long been considered major determinants of diet induced obesity, a growing body of research suggests that the relationships between diet composition and obesity are more complex than originally thought, involving interactions between dietary macronutrients. However, rodent dietary models have yet to evolve to capture this, instead relying heavily on elevated levels of a single macronutrient. While this approach has highlighted important effects of obesity on male reproduction, it does not allow for interpretation of the complex, interacting effects of dietary protein, carbohydrate and fat. Further, the single nutrient approach limits the ability to draw conclusions about which diets best support reproductive function. Nutritional Geometry offers an alternative approach, assessing outcomes of interest over an extended range of dietary macronutrient compositions. This review explores the practical application of Nutritional Geometry to study the effects of dietary macronutrient balance on male reproduction, including experimental considerations specific to studies of diet and reproductive physiology. Finally, this review discusses the promising use of Nutritional Geometry in the development of evidence-based pre-conception nutritional guidance for men.
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Salas-Huetos A, Tüttelmann F, Wyrwoll MJ, Kliesch S, Lopes AM, Goncalves J, Boyden SE, Wöste M, Hotaling JM, Nagirnaja L, Conrad DF, Carrell DT, Aston KI. Disruption of human meiotic telomere complex genes TERB1, TERB2 and MAJIN in men with non-obstructive azoospermia. Hum Genet 2020; 140:217-227. [PMID: 33211200 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-020-02236-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), the lack of spermatozoa in semen due to impaired spermatogenesis affects nearly 1% of men. In about half of cases, an underlying cause for NOA cannot be identified. This study aimed to identify novel variants associated with idiopathic NOA. We identified a nonconsanguineous family in which multiple sons displayed the NOA phenotype. We performed whole-exome sequencing in three affected brothers with NOA, their two unaffected brothers and their father, and identified compound heterozygous frameshift variants (one novel and one extremely rare) in Telomere Repeat Binding Bouquet Formation Protein 2 (TERB2) that segregated perfectly with NOA. TERB2 interacts with TERB1 and Membrane Anchored Junction Protein (MAJIN) to form the tripartite meiotic telomere complex (MTC), which has been shown in mouse models to be necessary for the completion of meiosis and both male and female fertility. Given our novel findings of TERB2 variants in NOA men, along with the integral role of the three MTC proteins in spermatogenesis, we subsequently explored exome sequence data from 1495 NOA men to investigate the role of MTC gene variants in spermatogenic impairment. Remarkably, we identified two NOA patients with likely damaging rare homozygous stop and missense variants in TERB1 and one NOA patient with a rare homozygous missense variant in MAJIN. Available testis histology data from three of the NOA patients indicate germ cell maturation arrest, consistent with mouse phenotypes. These findings suggest that variants in MTC genes may be an important cause of NOA in both consanguineous and outbred populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Salas-Huetos
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Margot J Wyrwoll
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany.,Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Alexandra M Lopes
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.,IPATIMUP-Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Goncalves
- Departamento de Genética Humana, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Dr Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016, Lisbon, Portugal.,ToxOmics-Centro de Toxicogenómica e Saúde Humana, Nova Medical School, 1169-056, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Steven E Boyden
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA.,Utah Center for Genetic Discovery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Marius Wöste
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Münster, 48149, Munster, Germany
| | - James M Hotaling
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | | | - Liina Nagirnaja
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Donald F Conrad
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA.,Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Douglas T Carrell
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.,Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.
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Clinical Evaluation of a Custom Gene Panel as a Tool for Precision Male Infertility Diagnosis by Next-Generation Sequencing. Life (Basel) 2020; 10:life10100242. [PMID: 33076341 PMCID: PMC7602585 DOI: 10.3390/life10100242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to 15% of couples are infertile and male factor infertility accounts for approximately 50% of these cases. Male infertility is a multifactorial pathological condition. The genetic of male infertility is very complex and at least 2000 genes are involved in its etiology. Genetic testing by next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies can be relevant for its diagnostic value in male infertile patients. Therefore, the aim of this study was to implement the diagnostic offer with the use of an NGS panel for the identification of genetic variants. METHODS We developed an NGS gene panel that we used in 22 male infertile patients. The panel consisted of 110 genes exploring the genetic causes of male infertility; namely spermatogenesis failure due to single-gene mutations, central hypogonadism, androgen insensitivity syndrome, congenital hypopituitarism, and primary ciliary dyskinesia. RESULTS NGS and a subsequent sequencing of the positive pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants, 5 patients (23%) were found to have a molecular defect. In particular, pathogenic variants were identified in TEX11, CCDC39, CHD7, and NR5A1 genes. Moreover, 14 variants of unknown significance and 7 novel variants were found that require further functional studies and family segregation. CONCLUSION This extended NGS-based diagnostic approach may represent a useful tool for the diagnosis of male infertility. The development of a custom-made gene panel by NGS seems capable of reducing the proportion of male idiopathic infertility.
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