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Dode MAN, Capobianco N, Vargas LN, Mion B, Kussano NR, Spricigo JF, Franco MM. Seminal cell-free DNA as a potential marker for in vitro fertility of Nellore bulls. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:1357-1370. [PMID: 38438770 PMCID: PMC11143116 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03068-y] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to identify a marker for freezability and in vitro fertility of sperm samples before freezing. METHODS Semen was collected from nine Nelore bulls; half of the ejaculate was used for seminal plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) quantification, and the other half was cryopreserved. Evaluation of sperm movement using computer-assisted semen analysis and plasma membrane integrity and stability, acrosomal integrity, apoptosis, and mitochondrial potential using flow cytometry were performed on fresh and frozen/thawed semen at 0, 3, 6, and 12 h after thawing. Frozen/thawed sperm was also used for in vitro embryo production. cfDNA was extracted from each bull, and the total DNA and number of cell-free mitochondrial DNA (cfmtDNA) copies were quantified. Semen from each animal was used for IVF, and cleavage, blastocyst formation, and cell counts were evaluated. RESULTS Two groups were formed and compared based on the concentrations of cfDNA and cfmDNA present: low-cfDNA and high-cfDNA and low-cfmtDNA and high-cfmtDNA. Up to 12 h post-thawing, there were no differences between the groups in the majority of the sperm parameters evaluated. Cleavage, day 6 and 7 blastocyst rates, and the number of cells were higher in the high cfDNA group than in the low cfDNA group. Similar results were observed for cfmtDNA, except for the number of cells, which was similar between the groups. CONCLUSION The concentration of cfDNA and the relative number of copies of cfmtDNA in seminal plasma cannot predict the freezability of semen but can be used to predict in vitro embryo production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margot A N Dode
- Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, DF, Brazil.
| | - Natalia Capobianco
- Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Luna Nascimento Vargas
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Bruna Mion
- Department of Animal Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Nayara Ribeiro Kussano
- Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - José Felipe Spricigo
- School of Veterinary and Animal Science, Federal University of Goiás, Goiania, GO, Brazil
| | - Mauricio Machaim Franco
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, DF, Brazil
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlandia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlandia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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2
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Li HM, Wan XY, Zhao JY, Liang XM, Dai Y, Li HG. Promising novel biomarkers and therapy targets: The application of cell-free seminal nucleotides in male reproduction research. Transl Res 2022; 256:73-86. [PMID: 36586533 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2022.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Liquid biopsy has the advantage of diagnosing diseases in a non-invasive manner. Seminal plasma contains secretions from the bilateral testes, epididymides, seminal vesicles, bulbourethral glands, and the prostate. These organs are relatively small and contain delicate tubes that are prone to damage by invasive diagnosis. Cell-free seminal nucleic acids test is a newly emerged item in liquid biopsy. Here, we present a comprehensive overview of all known cell-free DNA and cell-free RNAs (mRNA, miRNA, lncRNA, circRNA, piRNA, YRNA, tsRNA, etc.) and discuss their roles as biomarker candidates in liquid biopsy. With great advantages, including high stability, sensitivity, representability, and non-invasiveness, cell-free DNA/RNAs may be developed as promising biomarkers for the screening, diagnosis, prognosis, and follow-up of diseases in semen-secreting organs. Moreover, RNAs in semen may participate in important processes, including sperm maturation, early embryo development, and transgenerational disease inheritance, which may be developed as potential treatment targets for future clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Min Li
- Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Yan Wan
- Department of Obstetrics and gynecology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510620, P. R. China
| | - Jie-Yi Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, P. R. China
| | - Xu-Ming Liang
- Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541001, P. R. China
| | - Yun Dai
- Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541001, P. R. China
| | - Hong-Gang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, P. R. China; Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, 430030, P. R. China.
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3
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Qasemi M, Mahdian R, Amidi F. Cell-free DNA discoveries in human reproductive medicine: providing a new tool for biomarker and genetic assays in ART. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:277-288. [PMID: 33421023 PMCID: PMC7884523 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-02038-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-free DNAs (cfDNAs) are fragmented forms of DNA that are released into extracellular environments. Analyzing them, regarding either concentration or genetic/epigenetic status can provide helpful information about disorders, response to treatments, estimation of success rates, etc. Moreover, since they are presented in body fluids, evaluation of the aforementioned items would be achieved by less/non-invasive methods. In human reproduction field, it is required to have biomarkers for prediction of assisted reproduction techniques (ART) outcome, as well as some non-invasive procedures for genetic/epigenetic assessments. cfDNA is an appropriate candidate for providing the both approaches in ART. Recently, scientists attempted to investigate its application in distinct fields of reproductive medicine that resulted in discovering its applicability for biomarker and genetic/epigenetic analyses. However, due to some limitations, it has not reached to clinical administration yet. In this article, we have reviewed the current reported data with respect to advantages and limitations of cfDNA utilization in three fields of ART, reproduction of male and female, as well as in vitro developed embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Qasemi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Mahdian
- Molecular Medicine Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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4
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Wang F, Yang W, Ouyang S, Yuan S. The Vehicle Determines the Destination: The Significance of Seminal Plasma Factors for Male Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228499. [PMID: 33198061 PMCID: PMC7696680 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Of all human infertility cases, up to 50% show contributing factors leading to defects in the male reproductive physiology. Seminal plasma (SP) is the biological fluid derived from the male accessory sex gland which carries spermatozoa passing throughout the male and female reproductive tract during ejaculation. It contains a complicated set of heterogeneous molecular structures, including proteins, cell-free nucleic acid (DNA, microRNA and LncRNA), and small-molecule metabolites as well as inorganic chemicals (ions). For a long time, the substantial significance of seminal plasma factors’ functions has been underestimated, which is restricted to spermatozoa transport and protection. Notably, significant advancements have been made in dissecting seminal plasma components, revealing new insights into multiple aspects of sperm function, as well as fertilization and pregnancy outcomes in recent years. In this review, we summarize the state-of-art discoveries regarding SP compositions and their implications in male fertility, particularly describing the novel understanding of seminal plasma components and related modifications using “omics” approaches and mainly focusing on proteome and RNA-seq data in the latest decade. Meanwhile, we highlighted the proposed mechanism of the regulation of SP molecules on immunomodulation in the female reproductive tract. Moreover, we also discussed the proteins investigated as non-invasive diagnosis biomarkers for male infertility in the clinic.
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5
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Aitken RJ, Whiting S, Connaughton H, Curry B, Reinheimer T, van Duin M. A novel pathway for the induction of DNA damage in human spermatozoa involving extracellular cell-free DNA. Mutat Res 2020; 821:111722. [PMID: 32920458 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2020.111722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
DNA damage is a common feature of human spermatozoa associated with an impaired capacity to fertilize the oocyte and an increased mutational load in the offspring. However, the etiology of this damage remains poorly defined. In this study we demonstrate that a major pathway for the induction of DNA damage in mammalian spermatozoa is triggered by exposure to exogenous cell free DNA (cfDNA). Exposure of human and mouse spermatozoa to cfDNA (calf thymus, mouse liver and salmon testes) in vitro induced a dose-dependent increase in sperm DNA damage that could be effectively suppressed by the concomitant presence of DNase. The induction of such damage was not accompanied by any concomitant change in sperm motility or vitality and was not directly associated with the induction of oxidative stress. In vivo the injection of exogenous DNA again precipitated an increase in sperm DNA fragmentation that could be reversed by the prior administration of DNase. Similarly, the induction of a transient unilateral testicular ischemia induced an increase in DNA fragmentation that was evident within 24 h and sustained for at least 14 days via mechanisms that could be completely suppressed by the prior administration of DNase. We conclude that exogenous cfDNA activates a defensive response in human spermatozoa associated with the nuclease-mediated induction of DNA fragmentation, possibly involving the participation of TLR9 and CD4. These novel insights have significant implications for our understanding of DNA fragmentation in the male germ line and open up new pathways for the remediation of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.
| | - Sara Whiting
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Haley Connaughton
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Ben Curry
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; Ferring International PharmaScience Center, Copenhagen, Denmark; Ferring Research Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
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6
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Bartolomé-Nebreda J, Vargas-Baquero E, López-Fernández C, Fernández JL, Johnston S, Gosálvez J. Free circulating DNA and DNase activity in the ejaculates of men with spinal cord injury. Spinal Cord 2020; 59:167-174. [PMID: 32651457 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-020-0518-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective descriptive study. OBJECTIVES To study the presence of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and DNase activity in males with spinal cord injury (SCI) with elevated sperm DNA fragmentation. SETTING Hospital in Toledo, Spain; University-based Genetics laboratory in Madrid, Spain. METHODS Semen was collected from 15 males with spinal cord injury and elevated sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). The presence and concentration of cfDNA was assessed using standard gel electrophoresis and microfluidic electrophoresis. DNase activity was evaluated in seminal plasma and under the presence of EDTA and EGTA to control the response of enzyme activity. cfDNA fragments were mapped on the sperm genome using FISH. All results were compared to 15 normozoospermic fertile donors. RESULTS Standard gel electrophoresis revealed a cfDNA band of ~150 bp in all samples from males with SCI; this band was ocasionally accompanied by another band of ~90 bp. These bands were not observed in normozoospermic donors. Microfluidid electrophoresis only identified the equivalent band of 150 bp. No correlation was observed between the intensity of the two bands and the level of SDF in males with SCI. Although DNase activity was present in the seminal plasma of both normozoospermic donors and men with SCI it did not digest cfDNA. cfDNA fragments were found to be hybridized all over the sperm genome. CONCLUSIONS SCI patients with elevated sperm DNA fragmentation showed a 150 bp DNA band of cfDNA in the seminal plasma, which appeared resistant to DNase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Bartolomé-Nebreda
- Unit of Genetics, Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Halotech DNA, Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Carmen López-Fernández
- Unit of Genetics, Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Halotech DNA, Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Luís Fernández
- INIBIC-Complexo Hospitalario Universitario A Coruña (CHUAC), Genetics Unit, As Xubias, 84, 15006-A, Coruña, Spain
| | - Stephen Johnston
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia.
| | - Jaime Gosálvez
- Unit of Genetics, Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Halotech DNA, Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain
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7
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Hashemi MS, Mozdarani H, Ghaedi K, Nasr-Esfahani MH. Could analysis of testis-specific genes, as biomarkers in seminal plasma, predict presence of focal spermatogenesis in non-obstructive azoospermia? Andrologia 2019; 52:e13483. [PMID: 31793700 DOI: 10.1111/and.13483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-free seminal mRNA (cfs-mRNA) exists in the human ejaculate that is proposed as a potential noninvasive procedure to prognosis pathophysiological conditions. This study applied cfs-mRNA of ESX1, ZMYND15 and its target haploid genes (TNP1 and PRM1) to identify the presence of spermatozoa in men with azoospermia. This study included 35 semen samples from 16 normozoospermic and 19 nonobstructive azoospermic individuals. Expression levels of target genes were determined by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction using ΔΔCt method. The expression level of these genes (ZMYND15, TNP1 and PRM1) was significantly decreased in semen samples of nonobstructive azoospermia compared to normozoospermia. Similarly, the expression level of TNP1 and PRM1 was significantly decreased in the sample with negative sperm (SR-) versus positive sperm retrieval (SR+). The expression level of these genes may have the potential for prediction of successful sperm retrieval with high sensitivity and specificity according to the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motahare-Sadat Hashemi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Cellular Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hossein Mozdarani
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamran Ghaedi
- Department of Cellular Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
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8
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A review of trace “Touch DNA” deposits: Variability factors and an exploration of cellular composition. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 39:8-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2018.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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9
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Seminal plasma cell-free mitochondrial DNA copy number is associated with human semen quality. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2018; 231:164-168. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2018.10.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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10
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Boissière A, Gala A, Ferrières-Hoa A, Mullet T, Baillet S, Petiton A, Torre A, Hamamah S. Cell-free and intracellular nucleic acids: new non-invasive biomarkers to explore male infertility. Basic Clin Androl 2017; 27:7. [PMID: 28439417 PMCID: PMC5399401 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-017-0052-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a devastating problem that affects many couples worldwide. However, the molecular mechanisms and causes of idiopathic male infertility remain unclear. Circulating cell-free nucleic acids have an important role in human physiology and emerging evidence suggests that they play a role in male infertility. This review summarizes recent results on cell-free and intracellular nucleic acids in male infertility and discusses their potential use as biomarkers of male infertility in the clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Boissière
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Anna Gala
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France.,Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Alice Ferrières-Hoa
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France.,Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Tiffany Mullet
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France.,Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Solenne Baillet
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Amaël Petiton
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Antoine Torre
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Samir Hamamah
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France.,Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
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11
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Seminal cell-free DNA levels measured by PicoGreen fluorochrome are associated with sperm fertility criteria. ZYGOTE 2017; 25:111-119. [PMID: 28264730 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199416000307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Previous investigations suggested that elevated cell-free DNA (cfDNA) can indicate non-healthy states. However, the potential association between cfDNA seminal plasma levels and fertility sperm parameters has not yet been determined. Therefore, the present study evaluated the association between seminal cfDNA levels and sperm fertility criteria to determine the use of seminal cfDNA quantification. An in vivo protocol quantified cfDNA levels of semen samples obtained from 163 male patients using fluorescent PicoGreen dye staining. To confirm if semen cfDNA quantification is realistic, an in vitro complementary test was performed using three or four semen samples. The fresh sperm samples were exposed to paraquat that generates high levels of superoxide anion causing oxidative stress and cell mortality. The results showed significant association between dsDNA levels and several sperm fertility parameters, such as low viability and alterations of motility and morphology. The in vitro analysis confirmed the association between dsDNA levels and sperm viability. Together, these results suggest that dsDNA levels could be an important biomarker to test sperm fertility.
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12
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Bounartzi T, Dafopoulos K, Anifandis G, Messini CI, Koutsonikou C, Kouris S, Satra M, Sotiriou S, Vamvakopoulos N, Messinis IE. Pregnancy prediction by free sperm DNA and sperm DNA fragmentation in semen specimens of IVF/ICSI-ET patients. HUM FERTIL 2016; 19:56-62. [DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2016.1157629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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13
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Combined ultrasound-curcumin treatment of human cervical cancer cells. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2015; 193:96-101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2015.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2014] [Revised: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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14
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Pansa A, Sirchia SM, Melis S, Giacchetta D, Castiglioni M, Colapietro P, Fiori S, Falcone R, Paganini L, Bonaparte E, Colpi G, Miozzo M, Tabano S. ESX1 mRNA expression in seminal fluid is an indicator of residual spermatogenesis in non-obstructive azoospermic men. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2620-7. [PMID: 25316452 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the presence of ESX1 mRNA in seminal fluid (SF) an indicator of residual spermatogenesis in men with non-obstructive azoospermic (NOA)? SUMMARY ANSWER ESX1 mRNA in SF is a suitable molecular marker for predicting the presence of residual spermatogenesis in testis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY ESX1 is an X-linked homeobox gene whose expression in testis is restricted to germ cells. We previously reported, in the testicular biopsies from azoospermic men, a positive correlation between the presence of ESX1 mRNA and residual spermatogenesis. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We investigated ESX1 mRNA expression in 70 testicular fragments (TF) and 56 (SF) of 70 NOA men. As controls, we analyzed 8 TF from men with obstructive azoospermic (OA) and 9 SF from normozoospermic men. For all patients we considered the histological classification of testis biopsies and the recovery of spermatozoa by surgical procedures. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Relative ESX1 mRNA expression was evaluated by quantitative RT-PCR using the ΔΔCt method. The results were compared with the recovery of spermatozoa at surgery. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In TF from NOA patients we found that: (i) ESX1 mRNA level was significantly decreased as the severity of spermatogenic defects increased (P < 0.0001, one-way analysis of variance); (ii) the presence of ESX1 mRNA can predict the success of sperm retrieval (sensitivity: 80%). In SF from NOA patients we found that: (i) ESX1 mRNA was present in 78.5% of NOA men; (ii) the presence of ESX1 mRNA could predict the success of sperm retrieval (sensitivity: 84%). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Spermatozoa were recovered at surgery in 5 out of 12 patients whose SF was negative for ESX1 mRNA expression. We think that discrepancies between molecular and clinical results could be reduced by analyzing more than one ejaculate from each man. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The data confirm that the ESX1 transcript in the semen of men with NOA is a suitable molecular marker for predicting the presence of residual foci of spermatogenesis in the testis. The implication of these results is that some patients 'with azoospermia', although having a severe impairment of spermatogenesis, could still maintain residual foci of spermatogenesis in limited areas of the testes, not always recovered by surgery. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported by the Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico: Ricerca Corrente [grant number RC2014/519-02] to M.M. and from ASM onlus 2010-2011 to M.M. The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Pansa
- Medical Genetics, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia M Sirchia
- Medical Genetics, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy
| | - Sara Melis
- Urology II Unit - Andrology and Assisted Reproduction, San Paolo Hospital - Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy
| | - Daniela Giacchetta
- Urology II Unit - Andrology and Assisted Reproduction, San Paolo Hospital - Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy
| | - Mirco Castiglioni
- Urology II Unit - Andrology and Assisted Reproduction, San Paolo Hospital - Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy
| | - Patrizia Colapietro
- Medical Genetics, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy
| | - Stefano Fiori
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Rossella Falcone
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Leda Paganini
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Eleonora Bonaparte
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Colpi
- Urology II Unit - Andrology and Assisted Reproduction, San Paolo Hospital - Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy
| | - Monica Miozzo
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20122, Italy
| | - Silvia Tabano
- Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20122, Italy
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Traver S, Assou S, Scalici E, Haouzi D, Al-Edani T, Belloc S, Hamamah S. Cell-free nucleic acids as non-invasive biomarkers of gynecological cancers, ovarian, endometrial and obstetric disorders and fetal aneuploidy. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:905-23. [PMID: 24973359 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proper folliculogenesis is fundamental to obtain a competent oocyte that, once fertilized, can support the acquisition of embryo developmental competence and pregnancy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial regulators of folliculogenesis, which are expressed in the cumulus-oocyte complex and in granulosa cells and some can also be found in the bloodstream. These circulating miRNAs are intensively studied and used as diagnostic/prognostic markers of many diseases, including gynecological and pregnancy disorders. In addition, serum contains small amounts of cell-free DNA (cfDNA), presumably resulting from the release of genetic material from apoptotic/necrotic cells. The quantification of nucleic acids in serum samples could be used as a diagnostic tool for female infertility. METHODS An overview of the published literature on miRNAs, and particularly on the use of circulating miRNAs and cfDNA as non-invasive biomarkers of gynecological diseases, was performed (up to January 2014). RESULTS In the past decade, cell-free nucleic acids have been studied for potential use as biomarkers in many diseases, particularly in gynecological cancers, ovarian and endometrial disorders, as well as in pregnancy-related pathologies and fetal aneuploidy. The data strongly suggest that the concentration of cell-free nucleic acids in serum from IVF patients or in embryo culture medium could be related to the ovarian hormone status and embryo quality, respectively, and be used as a non-invasive biomarker of IVF outcome. CONCLUSIONS The profiling of circulating nucleic acids, such as miRNAs and cfDNA, opens new perspectives for the diagnosis/prognosis of ovarian disorders and for the prediction of IVF outcomes, namely (embryo quality and pregnancy).
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Affiliation(s)
- S Traver
- CHU Montpellier, Institute for Research in Biotherapy, Hôpital Saint-Eloi, INSERM U1040, Montpellier, France
| | - S Assou
- CHU Montpellier, Institute for Research in Biotherapy, Hôpital Saint-Eloi, INSERM U1040, Montpellier, France Université Montpellier 1, UFR de Médecine, Montpellier, France
| | - E Scalici
- CHU Montpellier, Institute for Research in Biotherapy, Hôpital Saint-Eloi, INSERM U1040, Montpellier, France Université Montpellier 1, UFR de Médecine, Montpellier, France
| | - D Haouzi
- CHU Montpellier, Institute for Research in Biotherapy, Hôpital Saint-Eloi, INSERM U1040, Montpellier, France
| | - T Al-Edani
- CHU Montpellier, Institute for Research in Biotherapy, Hôpital Saint-Eloi, INSERM U1040, Montpellier, France Université Montpellier 1, UFR de Médecine, Montpellier, France
| | - S Belloc
- Eylau-Unilabs Laboratory, Paris, France
| | - S Hamamah
- CHU Montpellier, Institute for Research in Biotherapy, Hôpital Saint-Eloi, INSERM U1040, Montpellier, France Université Montpellier 1, UFR de Médecine, Montpellier, France ART-PGD Department, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Follicular fluid oocyte/cumulus-free DNA concentrations as a potential biomolecular marker of embryo quality and IVF outcome. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:289306. [PMID: 25025044 PMCID: PMC4082907 DOI: 10.1155/2014/289306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The present prospective study examined the follicular fluid oocyte/cumulus-free DNA concentrations (ff o/c-free DNA) during ovarian stimulation and the possible association between ff o/c-free DNA and embryological results such as embryo quality and pregnancy rate. Eighty-three women undergoing IV/ICSI-ET treatments were prospectively included in this study. ff o/c-free DNA was determined by conventional quantitative real time PCR-Sybr green detection approach. The 83 ff samples were categorized in two groups: group 1 (n = 62) with cumulus oocytes complexes (CoCs) ≥2 and group 2 (n = 21) with CoCs = 1. Group 1 revealed significant higher embryo quality in terms of mean score of embryo transfer (MSET), but lower ff o/c-free DNA concentrations compared to group 2. The two groups showed comparable pregnancy rates (positive hCG and clinical pregnancy). The higher the ff o/c-free DNA concentration, the lower the number of produced oocytes. ff o/c-free DNA did not seem to have any direct role in the IVF outcome. Further research is required to clarify whether ff o/c-free DNA is a biomolecular marker of embryo quality and IVF outcome.
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Wu C, Ding X, Li H, Zhu C, Xiong C. Genome-wide promoter methylation profile of human testis and epididymis: identified from cell-free seminal DNA. BMC Genomics 2013; 14:288. [PMID: 23622456 PMCID: PMC3653781 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-14-288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2012] [Accepted: 04/24/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background DNA methylation analysis is useful for investigation of male fertility in mammals, whereas the reliance on tissues limits the research on human. We have previously found the presence of high concentration of cell-free seminal DNA (cfsDNA) in human semen. We proposed that some testis and epididymis-specific methylated promoters could be detected in human cfsDNA, and thus hold promise as noninvasive epigenetic biomarkers for male infertility, of which most cases are caused by defects in testicular sperm production or epididymal sperm maturation. Results The ejaculate of successfully vasectomized men does not contain any secretion from testis and epididymis. Here we compared genome-wide promoter methylation profiles in cfsDNA between health donors and post-vasectomy men. Promoters of 367 testis and epididymis-specific hypomethylated genes and 134 hypermethylated genes were identified. Subsequent validation by Methyl-DNA immunoprecipitation and MethyLight analysis confirmed the result of promoter microarray. Gene Ontology analysis revealed many genes involved in male reproduction. Conclusion We detected the testis and epididymis-specific methylated promoters in human cfsDNA, which may be used for noninvasive epigenetic biomarkers for the study and diagnosis of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlin Wu
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
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Vandewoestyne M, Van Hoofstat D, Franssen A, Van Nieuwerburgh F, Deforce D. Presence and potential of cell free DNA in different types of forensic samples. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2013; 7:316-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2012.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2012] [Revised: 09/21/2012] [Accepted: 12/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Huang S, Li H, Ding X, Xiong C. Presence and Characterization of Cell-Free Seminal RNA in Healthy Individuals: Implications for Noninvasive Disease Diagnosis and Gene Expression Studies of the Male Reproductive System. Clin Chem 2009; 55:1967-76. [PMID: 19745059 DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2009.131128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Background: We recently detected cell-free seminal RNA (cfsRNA) and set out to study its concentration, integrity, stability in healthy individuals, and mechanisms for its protection from ribonucleases.
Methods: We quantified cfsRNA by reverse-transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) targeting of the 5′ region of the ACTB (actin, beta) transcript. cfsRNA integrity was analyzed by microcapillary electrophoresis and by amplification of full-length ACTB and DDX4 [DEAD (Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp) box polypeptide 4] transcripts, including measurement of the relative amounts of different regions of ACTB and DDX4 transcripts. Stability of cfsRNA was measured by time-course analysis of different regions of ACTB and DDX4 transcripts. To investigate whether cfsRNA was protected in complexed forms, we processed seminal plasma in 2 ways: filtration through pores of different sizes and Triton X-100 treatment before RNA recovery.
Results: cfsRNA concentrations varied from 0.87–3.64 mg/L [mean (SD), 1.75 mg/L (0.92 mg/L)]. Most cfsRNA was present in partially degraded forms, with smaller amounts of middle and 3′ amplicons compared with 5′ amplicons. Although the 3′ region of the DDX4 transcript was degraded completely by 90 min, the 5′ regions of ACTB and DDX4 transcripts were stable up to 24 h. Filtration through 0.22-μm pores reduced ACTB and DDX4 mRNA concentrations by 72% and 61%, respectively. Nearly all seminal ACTB and DDX4 mRNA disappeared after Triton X-100 treatment.
Conclusions: Although cfsRNA was partially degraded, it represented diverse transcript species and was abundant, fairly stable, and associated with particles in healthy individuals. cfsRNA may represent a potential noninvasive biomarker of the male reproductive system and of germline epigenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyun Huang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Family Planning Research Institute, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaofang Ding
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chengliang Xiong
- Family Planning Research Institute, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
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Quick recovery and characterization of cell-free DNA in seminal plasma of normozoospermia and azoospermia: implications for non-invasive genetic utilities. Asian J Androl 2009; 11:703-9. [PMID: 19823179 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2009.65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
We established a quick and reliable method for recovering cell-free seminal DNA (cfsDNA), by using the binding-washing-elution procedure on the DNA purification column. Low variations (below 15%) among the triplicate values of cfsDNA quantity verified the reproducibility of our cfsDNA recovery method. Similar cfsDNA yield and size distribution between seminal plasma acquired by filtration and centrifugation confirmed the presence of cfsDNA. To investigate the general characterization of cfsDNA, the quantitation and size distribution of cfsDNA from normozoospermic and azoospermic semen were analyzed by real-time PCR and electrophoresis, respectively. CfsDNA concentration in semen with normozoospermia (n = 11) was 1.34 +/- 0.65 microg mL(-1), whereas a higher cfsDNA concentration was observed in azoospermia (2.56 +/- 1.43 microg mL(-1), n = 9). The continuous distribution of DNA fragments ranging from approximately 1 kb to 15 kb and a spectrum of multiples of 180-bp fragments were observed in each normozoospermic and azoospermic sample. Distinct characteristic DNA ladder fragmentations in some azoospermic samples implicated that cfsDNA originate partly from apoptotic cells. CfsDNAs of 36 selected azoospermic patients with known information of Y chromosome microdeletion were subjected to the same microdeletion analysis by multiplex PCR and PCR amplification of sY114 (1450 bp). All multiplex PCR reactions with cfsDNA amplified successfully and provided the same result as leukocyte DNA. PCR amplification of sY114 gave a 1450-bp amplicon as expected. Our data suggested the potential use of cfsDNA in search of biomarker or diagnostic procedures.
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Bibliography. Current world literature. Fertility. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2006; 18:344-53. [PMID: 16735837 DOI: 10.1097/01.gco.0000193023.28556.e2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Sang F, Ren J. Capillary electrophoresis of double-stranded DNA fragments using a new fluorescence intercalating dye EvaGreen. J Sep Sci 2006; 29:1275-80. [PMID: 16833086 DOI: 10.1002/jssc.200600029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
EvaGreen is a new DNA intercalating dye successfully used in quantitative real-time PCR. In the present work, we firstly apply EvaGreen to the analysis of dsDNA by CE with LIF detection. Comparisons of EvaGreen dye with the commonly used dyes SYBR Green I and SYBR Gold were preformed in dsDNA analysis by CE. The linear range of dsDNA using EvaGreen was slightly wider than that using SYBR Gold and SYBR Green I, and the detection limits of dsDNA were not significantly different for the three dyes. Good separations of dsDNA fragments were obtained using the three dyes. Reproducibility of migration time and the peak area of dsDNA fragments with EvaGreen were better than those for SYBR Green I and SYBR Gold. The RSD values were 0.24-0.27% for migration time and 3.45-7.59% for peak area within the same day, 1.35-1.63% for migration time and 6.72-12.05% for peak area for three days. Our data demonstrated that EvaGreen is well suited for the dsDNA analysis by CE with LIF detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuming Sang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, P. R. China
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