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Fakhro KA, Awwad J, Garibova S, Saraiva LR, Avella M. Conserved genes regulating human sex differentiation, gametogenesis and fertilization. J Transl Med 2024; 22:473. [PMID: 38764035 PMCID: PMC11103854 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05162-2] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The study of the functional genome in mice and humans has been instrumental for describing the conserved molecular mechanisms regulating human reproductive biology, and for defining the etiologies of monogenic fertility disorders. Infertility is a reproductive disorder that includes various conditions affecting a couple's ability to achieve a healthy pregnancy. Recent advances in next-generation sequencing and CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing technologies have facilitated the identification and characterization of genes and mechanisms that, if affected, lead to infertility. We report established genes that regulate conserved functions in fundamental reproductive processes (e.g., sex determination, gametogenesis, and fertilization). We only cover genes the deletion of which yields comparable fertility phenotypes in both rodents and humans. In the case of newly-discovered genes, we report the studies demonstrating shared cellular and fertility phenotypes resulting from loss-of-function mutations in both species. Finally, we introduce new model systems for the study of human reproductive biology and highlight the importance of studying human consanguineous populations to discover novel monogenic causes of infertility. The rapid and continuous screening and identification of putative genetic defects coupled with an efficient functional characterization in animal models can reveal novel mechanisms of gene function in human reproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid A Fakhro
- Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Johnny Awwad
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
- Vincent Memorial Obstetrics & Gynecology Service, The Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Luis R Saraiva
- Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Matteo Avella
- Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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2
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Chan CC, Yen TH, Tseng HC, Mai B, Ho PK, Chou JL, Wu GJ, Huang YC. A Comprehensive Genetic Study of Microtubule-Associated Gene Clusters for Male Infertility in a Taiwanese Cohort. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15363. [PMID: 37895049 PMCID: PMC10607339 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015363] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced reproductive technologies are utilized to identify the genetic mutations that lead to spermatogenic impairment, and allow informed genetic counseling to patients to prevent the transmission of genetic defects to offspring. The purpose of this study was to identify potential single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with male infertility. Genetic variants that may cause infertility are identified by combining the targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel and whole exome sequencing (WES). The validation step of Sanger sequencing adds confidence to the identified variants. Our analysis revealed five distinct affected genes covering seven SNPs based on the targeted NGS panel and WES data: SPATA16 (rs16846616, 1515442, 1515441), CFTR (rs213950), KIF6 (rs2273063), STPG2 (r2903150), and DRC7 (rs3809611). Infertile men have a higher mutation rate than fertile men, especially those with azoospermia. These findings strongly support the hypothesis that the dysfunction of microtubule-related and spermatogenesis-specific genes contributes to idiopathic male infertility. The SPATA16, CFTR, KIF6, STPG2, and DRC7 mutations are associated with male infertility, specifically azoospermia, and a further examination of this genetic function is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chying-Chyuan Chan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114201, Taiwan; (C.-C.C.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei City Hospital-Renai Branch, Taipei 103212, Taiwan
| | - Te-Hsin Yen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei City Hospital-Renai Branch, Taipei 103212, Taiwan
| | - Hao-Chen Tseng
- School of Pharmacy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114201, Taiwan
| | - Brang Mai
- School of Pharmacy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114201, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Kuan Ho
- School of Dentistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114201, Taiwan
| | - Jian-Liang Chou
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114201, Taiwan; (C.-C.C.)
- Department of Research and Development, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114201, Taiwan
| | - Gwo-Jang Wu
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114201, Taiwan; (C.-C.C.)
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei 114202, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chuan Huang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114201, Taiwan; (C.-C.C.)
- School of Pharmacy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114201, Taiwan
- Department of Research and Development, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114201, Taiwan
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3
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Zhang X, Hu C, Wu L. Advances in the study of genetic factors and clinical interventions for fertilization failure. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023:10.1007/s10815-023-02810-2. [PMID: 37289376 PMCID: PMC10371943 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02810-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertilization failure refers to the failure in the pronucleus formation, evaluating 16-18 h post in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. It can be caused by sperm, oocytes, and sperm-oocyte interaction and lead to great financial and physical stress to the patients. Recent advancements in genetics, molecular biology, and clinical-assisted reproductive technology have greatly enhanced research into the causes and treatment of fertilization failure. Here, we review the causes that have been reported to lead to fertilization failure in fertilization processes, including the sperm acrosome reaction, penetration of the cumulus and zona pellucida, recognition and fusion of the sperm and oocyte membranes, oocyte activation, and pronucleus formation. Additionally, we summarize the progress of corresponding treatment methods of fertilization failure. This review will provide the latest research advances in the genetic aspects of fertilization failure and will benefit both researchers and clinical practitioners in reproduction and genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangjun Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Congyuan Hu
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Limin Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China.
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Moreno RD. Human globozoospermia-related genes and their role in acrosome biogenesis. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1589. [PMID: 36493758 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1589] [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: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian acrosome is a secretory vesicle attached to the sperm nucleus whose fusion with the overlying plasma membrane is required to achieve fertilization. Acrosome biogenesis starts during meiosis, but it lasts through the entire process of haploid cell differentiation (spermiogenesis). Acrosome biogenesis is a stepwise process that involves membrane traffic from the Golgi apparatus, but it also seems that the lysosome/endosome system participates in this process. Defective sperm head morphology is accompanied by defective acrosome shape and function, and patients with these characteristics are infertile or subfertile. The most extreme case of acrosome biogenesis failure is globozoospermia syndrome, which is primarily characterized by the presence of round-headed spermatozoa without acrosomes with cytoskeleton defects around the nucleus and infertility. Several genes participating in acrosome biogenesis have been uncovered using genetic deletions in mice, but only a few of them have been found to be deleted or modified in patients with globozoospermia. Understanding acrosome biogenesis is crucial to uncovering the molecular basis of male infertility and developing new diagnostic tools and assisted reproductive technologies that may help infertile patients through more effective treatment techniques. This article is categorized under: Reproductive System Diseases > Environmental Factors Infectious Diseases > Stem Cells and Development Reproductive System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo D Moreno
- Departmento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Crafa A, Condorelli RA, La Vignera S, Calogero AE, Cannarella R. Globozoospermia: A Case Report and Systematic Review of Literature. World J Mens Health 2023; 41:49-80. [PMID: 36047070 PMCID: PMC9826911 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220020] [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: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Globozoospermia is a genetic syndrome characterized by the presence of round-headed spermatozoa and infertility due to the inability of these spermatozoa to fertilize the oocyte. In this article, we present the clinical case of a young globozoospermic patient with a new, not yet described mutation of the DPY19L2 gene. We also performed a systematic review of the literature on gene mutations, the outcome of assisted reproductive techniques, and the risk of transmission of abnormalities to the offspring in patients with globozoospermia and made recommendations to offer a more appropriate clinical management of these patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a systematic search in the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases from their inception to December 2021. The search strategy included the combination of the following Medical Subjects Headings (MeSH) terms and keywords: "globozoospermia", "round-headed spermatozoa", "round head spermatozoa", "intracytoplasmic sperm injection", "ICSI", "offspring", "child health", "assisted reproductive technique outcome". All the eligible studies were selected following the PECOS (Population, Exposure, Comparison/Comparator, Outcomes, Study design) model. The quality of included studies was assessed by applying the "Cambridge Quality Checklists". RESULTS The main genes involved in the pathogenesis of globozoospermia are DPY19L2, SPATA16, PICK1, GGN, SPACA1, ZPBP, CCDC62, and CCNB3 genes. Other genes could also play a role. These include C2CD6, C7orf61, CCIN, DNH17, DNH6, PIWIL4, and CHPT1. Globozoospermic patients should undergo ART to achieve fertility. In particular, intracytoplasmic sperm injection with assisted oocyte activation or intracytoplasmic morphologically-selected sperm injection appears to be associated with a higher success rate. Patients with globozoospermia should also be evaluated for the high rate of sperm aneuploidy which appears to influence the success rate of ART but does not appear to be associated with an increased risk of transmission of genetic abnormalities to offspring. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review summarizes the evidence on the gene panel to be evaluated, ICSI outcomes, and the health of the offspring in patients with globozoospermia. Evidence-based recommendations on the management of patients with globozoospermia are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Crafa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Aldo Eugenio 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
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Okada Y. Sperm chromatin condensation: epigenetic mechanisms to compact the genome and spatiotemporal regulation from inside and outside the nucleus. Gene 2022; 97:41-53. [PMID: 35491100 DOI: 10.1266/ggs.21-00065] [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: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Sperm chromatin condensation is a critical step in mammalian spermatogenesis to protect the paternal DNA from external damaging factors and to acquire fertility. During chromatin condensation, various events proceed in a chronological order, independently or in sequence, interacting with each other both inside and outside the nucleus to support the dramatic chromatin changes. Among these events, histone-protamine replacement, which is concomitant with acrosome biogenesis and cytoskeletal alteration, is the most critical step associated with nuclear elongation. Failures of not only intranuclear events but also extra-nuclear events severely affect sperm shape and chromatin state and are subsequently linked to infertility. This review focuses on nuclear and non-nuclear factors that affect sperm chromatin condensation and its effects, and further discusses the possible utility of sperm chromatin for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Okada
- Laboratory of Pathology and Development, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo
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7
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Wang HQ, Wang T, Gao F, Ren WZ. Application of CRISPR/Cas Technology in Spermatogenesis Research and Male Infertility Treatment. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13061000. [PMID: 35741761 PMCID: PMC9223233 DOI: 10.3390/genes13061000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
As the basis of animal reproductive activity, normal spermatogenesis directly determines the efficiency of livestock production. An in-depth understanding of spermatogenesis will greatly facilitate animal breeding efforts and male infertility treatment. With the continuous development and application of gene editing technologies, they have become valuable tools to study the mechanism of spermatogenesis. Gene editing technologies have provided us with a better understanding of the functions and potential mechanisms of action of factors that regulate spermatogenesis. This review summarizes the applications of gene editing technologies, especially CRISPR/Cas9, in deepening our understanding of the function of spermatogenesis-related genes and disease treatment. The problems of gene editing technologies in the field of spermatogenesis research are also discussed.
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Bai H, Sha Y, Tan Y, Li P, Zhang Y, Xu J, Xu S, Ji Z, Wang X, Chen W, Zhang J, Yao C, Li Z, Zhi E. Deleterious variants in TAF7L cause human oligoasthenoteratozoospermia and its impairing histone to protamine exchange inducing reduced in vitro fertilization. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1099270. [PMID: 36714566 PMCID: PMC9874084 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1099270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) is a major cause of infertility in males. Only a few pathogenic genes of OAT have been clearly identified till now. A large number of OAT-affected cases remain largely unknown. METHODS Here, Whole-exome sequencing (WES) in 725 idiopathic OAT patients was performed. Ejaculated spermatozoa by OAT patients were microinjected into mouse oocytes to estimate fertilization potential. Diff-quick staining and transmission electron microscopy were performed to evaluate sperm morphology and ultrastructure. The protein expression level and localization In vitro were detected by Western Blotting and Immunocytochemistry. RESULTS We identified four X-linked hemizygous deleterious variants of TAF7L-namely, c.1301_1302del;(p.V434Afs*5), c.699G>T;(p.R233S), c.508delA; (p. T170fs), c.719dupA;(p.K240fs) -in five probands. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) were carried out in M1, M2-1and M3 patient's wife. However only M1 patient's wife became pregnant after embryo transfer. In vitro study demonstrated significantly reduced fertilization ability in patient with TAF7L mutation. The TAF7L mutation let to abnormal sperm head and impaired histone-to protamine exchange. Variant 719dupA (p. K240fs) resulted in producing a truncated TAF7L protein and localized massively within the nucleus. In addition, TAF7L expression were not able to be detected due to variants c.1301_1302del (p. V434Afs*5) and c.508delA (p. T170fs) In vitro. CONCLUSION Our findings support that TAF7L is one of pathogenic genes of OAT and deleterious mutations in TAF7L may cause impaired histone-to-protamine affected the chromatin compaction of sperm head.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haowei Bai
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Department of ART, Institute of Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanwei Sha
- Department of Andrology, Women and Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yueqiu Tan
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Department of ART, Institute of Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuxiang Zhang
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Department of ART, Institute of Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junwei Xu
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Department of ART, Institute of Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuai Xu
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Department of ART, Institute of Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiyong Ji
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Department of ART, Institute of Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Department of ART, Institute of Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Department of ART, Institute of Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianxiong Zhang
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Department of ART, Institute of Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chencheng Yao
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Department of ART, Institute of Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Chencheng Yao, ; Zheng Li, ; Erlei Zhi,
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Department of ART, Institute of Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Chencheng Yao, ; Zheng Li, ; Erlei Zhi,
| | - Erlei Zhi
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Department of ART, Institute of Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Chencheng Yao, ; Zheng Li, ; Erlei Zhi,
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Faja F, Pallotti F, Cargnelutti F, Senofonte G, Carlini T, Lenzi A, Lombardo F, Paoli D. Molecular Analysis of DPY19L2, PICK1 and SPATA16 in Italian Unrelated Globozoospermic Men. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11070641. [PMID: 34209343 PMCID: PMC8307282 DOI: 10.3390/life11070641] [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: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate genetic contribution and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) in a cohort of 18 unrelated globozoospermic Italian men (Group G). Semen samples were assessed according to the WHO 2010 Laboratory Manual and compared with 31 fertile controls. We focused our genetic analysis on the exons of the main globozoospermia-associated genes, performing qualitative PCR to assess deletion of DPY19L2 and sequencing to detect mutations of SPATA16 and PICK1. SDF was evaluated using the TUNEL assay. In Group G, 10 patients had a complete form of globozoospermia, whereas 8 patients had a partial form. Molecular analysis revealed deletion of DPY19L2 in six of the patients, all of them with complete globozoospermia, while no mutations were found in the examined exons of PICK1 and SPATA16. TUNEL analysis showed a higher SDF% in Group G. Our findings confirm DPY19L2 defects as the most frequent genetic alteration in Italian patients contributing to globozoospermic phenotypes. Furthermore, spermatozoa with acrosomal defects could also display high levels of SDF as a possible consequence of abnormally remodeled chromatin. The possible effect on offspring of chromatin structure abnormalities and altered DNA integrity should be carefully evaluated by clinicians, especially regarding the feasibility and safety of artificial reproductive techniques, which represent the only treatment that allows these patients to conceive.
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Chen P, Saiyin H, Shi R, Liu B, Han X, Gao Y, Ye X, Zhang X, Sun Y. Loss of SPACA1 function causes autosomal recessive globozoospermia by damaging the acrosome-acroplaxome complex. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2587-2596. [PMID: 34172998 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the sperm acrosome membrane-associated protein 1 (SPACA1) gene critical to human globozoospermia? SUMMARY ANSWER The biallelic loss-of-function (variant of SPACA1) causes globozoospermia as a result of acrosome-acroplaxome complex damage. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY SPACA1 expression decreases in patients with globozoospermia. Spaca1 gene-disrupted mice have abnormally shaped sperm heads that resemble those of human globozoospermia. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We recruited a consanguineous family with two brothers affected by infertility as a consequence of globozoospermia. The semen analysis data and ART outcomes were collected. Exome sequencing (ES) was used to identify potential pathogenic variants. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) technologies and proteomic analysis were utilized to explore the pathogenic mechanism. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Two globozoospermic brothers and their consanguineous parents were recruited to identify the potential pathogenic variant through ES. A homozygous nonsense variant in the SPACA1 gene in both brothers inherited from the heterozygous parents was identified. Twenty normal fertile males were recruited as controls. Sperm ultrastructure was observed with transmission electron microscopy. Western blotting was performed to measure SPACA1 expression level in the sperm from the patients. Mass spectrometry (MS) analyses were used to identify differentially expressed proteins and to investigate proteins that interact with SPACA1. Co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP), yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) and immunofluorescence colocalization assays were used to confirm the PPI. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A nonsense variant (NM_030960.2: c.53G>A; p. Trp18*) in the SPACA1 gene was identified as the pathogenic variant in a family with globozoospermia. Patient IV:1 and Patient IV:2 had a phenotype very similar to that of Spaca1 gene-disrupted mice. The nonsense variant in SPACA1 led to premature transcriptional termination in the signal peptide, which was confirmed by western blotting. MS-based proteomics analysis showed that eight interactors of SPACA1 were differentially expressed in the patients' sperm, including actin-like Protein 7A (ACTL7A), an important component of the acrosome-acroplaxome complex. The PPI of SPACA1 and ACTL7A was confirmed via co-IP and Y2H assays. Immunofluorescence showed that SPACA1 and ACTL7A colocalized in mature sperm, revealing that these proteins were coexpressed spatially. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Given the rarity of globozoospermia, only two patients from one family harbouring the SPACA1 variant were found. Future studies should evaluate SPACA1 variants in larger cohorts to corroborate this finding. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study revealed that the SPACA1 gene was critical for globozoospermia, which expanded the spectrum of causative genes for globozoospermia. This study also provided evidence for ICSI clinical outcomes for patients with SPACA1-deficient globozoospermia, which may guide clinical treatment strategies. Furthermore, this study explored the pathogenesis of globozoospermia caused by SPACA1 deficiency. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was funded by the Precision Medical Research of National Key Research and Development Program (2018YFC1002400), National Natural Science Foundation of China (81873724), and Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai (20ZR1472700). The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingping Chen
- Department of Reproduction, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Paediatric Endocrinology/Genetics, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hexige Saiyin
- The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruona Shi
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Reproduction, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Han
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuping Gao
- Department of Reproduction, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiantao Ye
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology/Genetics, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Molecular Genetics Group, Shanghai Institute for Paediatric Research, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaofei Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Metabolomics and Proteomics Center, Bioland Laboratory, Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology/Genetics, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Molecular Genetics Group, Shanghai Institute for Paediatric Research, Shanghai, China
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11
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Oud MS, Okutman Ö, Hendricks LAJ, de Vries PF, Houston BJ, Vissers LELM, O'Bryan MK, Ramos L, Chemes HE, Viville S, Veltman JA. Exome sequencing reveals novel causes as well as new candidate genes for human globozoospermia. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:240-252. [PMID: 31985809 PMCID: PMC6993856 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can exome sequencing identify new genetic causes of globozoospermia? SUMMARY ANSWER Exome sequencing in 15 cases of unexplained globozoospermia revealed deleterious mutations in seven new genes, of which two have been validated as causing globozoospermia when knocked out in mouse models. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Globozoospermia is a rare form of male infertility characterised by round-headed sperm and malformation of the acrosome. Although pathogenic variants in DPY19L2 and SPATA16 are known causes of globozoospermia and explain up to 70% of all cases, genetic causality remains unexplained in the remaining patients. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION After pre-screening 16 men for mutations in known globozoospermia genes DPY19L2 and SPATA16, exome sequencing was performed in 15 males with globozoospermia or acrosomal hypoplasia of unknown aetiology. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHOD Targeted next-generation sequencing and Sanger sequencing was performed for all 16 patients to screen for single-nucleotide variants and copy number variations in DPY19L2 and SPATA16. After exclusion of one patient with DPY19L2 mutations, we performed exome sequencing for the 15 remaining subjects. We prioritised recessive and X-linked protein-altering variants with an allele frequency of <0.5% in the population database GnomAD in genes with an enhanced expression in the testis. All identified candidate variants were confirmed in patients and, where possible, in family members using Sanger sequencing. Ultrastructural examination of semen from one of the patients allowed for a precise phenotypic characterisation of abnormal spermatozoa. MAIN RESULTS AND ROLE OF CHANCE After prioritisation and validation, we identified possibly causative variants in eight of 15 patients investigated by exome sequencing. The analysis revealed homozygous nonsense mutations in ZPBP and CCDC62 in two unrelated patients, as well as rare missense mutations in C2CD6 (also known as ALS2CR11), CCIN, C7orf61 and DHNA17 and a frameshift mutation in GGN in six other patients. All variants identified through exome sequencing, except for the variants in DNAH17, were located in a region of homozygosity. Familial segregation of the nonsense variant in ZPBP revealed two fertile brothers and the patient’s mother to be heterozygous carriers. Paternal DNA was unavailable. Immunohistochemistry confirmed that ZPBP localises to the acrosome in human spermatozoa. Ultrastructural analysis of spermatozoa in the patient with the C7orf61 mutation revealed a mixture of round heads with no acrosomes (globozoospermia) and ovoid or irregular heads with small acrosomes frequently detached from the sperm head (acrosomal hypoplasia). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Stringent filtering criteria were used in the exome data analysis which could result in possible pathogenic variants remaining undetected. Additionally, functional follow-up is needed for several candidate genes to confirm the impact of these mutations on normal spermatogenesis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our study revealed an important role for mutations in ZPBP and CCDC62 in human globozoospermia as well as five new candidate genes. These findings provide a more comprehensive understanding of the genetics of male infertility and bring us closer to a complete molecular diagnosis for globozoospermia patients which would help to predict the success of reproductive treatments. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (918–15-667); National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (APP1120356) and the National Council for Scientific Research (CONICET), Argentina, PIP grant 11220120100279CO. The authors have nothing to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Oud
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ö Okutman
- Laboratoire de Diagnostic Génétique, UF3472-génétique de l'infertilité, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France.,Institut de Parasitologie et Pathologie Tropicale, EA 7292, Université de Strasbourg, 3 rue Koeberlé, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - L A J Hendricks
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - P F de Vries
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - B J Houston
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - L E L M Vissers
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - M K O'Bryan
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - L Ramos
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - H E Chemes
- Center for Research in Endocrinology (CEDIE), National Research Council, Department of Endocrinology, Buenos Aires Children's Hospital, Argentina
| | - S Viville
- Laboratoire de Diagnostic Génétique, UF3472-génétique de l'infertilité, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France.,Institut de Parasitologie et Pathologie Tropicale, EA 7292, Université de Strasbourg, 3 rue Koeberlé, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - J A Veltman
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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12
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Single-center thorough evaluation and targeted treatment of globozoospermic men. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:2073-2086. [PMID: 33877510 PMCID: PMC8417186 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02191-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To characterize, by specific biomarkers and nucleic acid sequencing, the structural and genomic sperm characteristics of partial (PG) and complete globozoospermic (CG) men in order to identify the best reproductive treatment. Methods We assessed spermatozoa from 14 consenting men ultrastructurally, as well as for histone content, sperm chromatin integrity, and sperm aneuploidy. Additional genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic evaluations were carried out to further characterize the CG cohort. The presence of oocyte-activating sperm cytosolic factor (OASCF) was measured by a phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) immunofluorescence assay. Couples were treated in subsequent cycles either by conventional ICSI or by ICSI with assisted gamete treatment (AGT) using calcium ionophore (Ionomycin, 19657, Sigma-Aldrich, Saint Louis, MO, USA). Results Ultrastructural assessment confirmed complete acrosome deficiency in all spermatozoa from CG men. Histone content, sperm chromatin integrity, and sperm aneuploidy did not differ significantly between the PG (n = 4) and CG (n = 10) cohorts. PLCζ assessment indicated a positive presence of OASCF in 4 PG couples, who underwent subsequent ICSI cycles that yielded a 36.1% (43/119) fertilization with a 50% (2/4) clinical pregnancy and delivery rate. PLCζ assessment failed to detect OASCF for 8 CG patients who underwent 9 subsequent ICSI cycles with AGT, yielding a remarkable improvement of fertilization (39/97; 40.2%) (P = 0.00001). Embryo implantation (6/21; 28.6%) and clinical pregnancies (5/7; 71.4%) were also enhanced, resulting in 4 deliveries. Gene mutations (DPY19L2, SPATA16, PICK1) were identified in spermatozoa from CG patients. Additionally, CG patients unable to sustain a term pregnancy had gene mutations involved in zygote development (NLRP5) and postnatal development (BSX). CG patients who successfully sustained a pregnancy had a mutation (PIWIL1) related to sperm phenotype. PLCZ1 was both mutated and underexpressed in these CG patients, regardless of reproductive outcome. Conclusions Sperm bioassays and genomic studies can be used to characterize this gamete’s capacity to support embryonic development and to tailor treatments maximizing reproductive outcome. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10815-021-02191-4.
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13
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Hiltpold M, Kadri NK, Janett F, Witschi U, Schmitz-Hsu F, Pausch H. Autosomal recessive loci contribute significantly to quantitative variation of male fertility in a dairy cattle population. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:225. [PMID: 33784962 PMCID: PMC8010996 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07523-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cattle are ideally suited to investigate the genetics of male fertility. Semen from individual bulls is used for thousands of artificial inseminations for which the fertilization success is monitored. Results from the breeding soundness examination and repeated observations of semen quality complement the fertility evaluation for each bull. RESULTS In a cohort of 3881 Brown Swiss bulls that had genotypes at 683,609 SNPs, we reveal four novel recessive QTL for male fertility on BTA1, 18, 25, and 26 using haplotype-based association testing. A QTL for bull fertility on BTA1 is also associated with sperm head shape anomalies. All other QTL are not associated with any of the semen quality traits investigated. We perform complementary fine-mapping approaches using publicly available transcriptomes as well as whole-genome sequencing data of 125 Brown Swiss bulls to reveal candidate causal variants. We show that missense or nonsense variants in SPATA16, VWA3A, ENSBTAG00000006717 and ENSBTAG00000019919 are in linkage disequilibrium with the QTL. Using whole-genome sequence data, we detect strong association (P = 4.83 × 10- 12) of a missense variant (p.Ile193Met) in SPATA16 with male fertility. However, non-coding variants exhibit stronger association at all QTL suggesting that variants in regulatory regions contribute to variation in bull fertility. CONCLUSION Our findings in a dairy cattle population provide evidence that recessive variants may contribute substantially to quantitative variation in male fertility in mammals. Detecting causal variants that underpin variation in male fertility remains difficult because the most strongly associated variants reside in poorly annotated non-coding regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Hiltpold
- Animal Genomics, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zürich, Eschikon 27, 8315, Lindau, Switzerland.
| | - Naveen Kumar Kadri
- Animal Genomics, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zürich, Eschikon 27, 8315, Lindau, Switzerland
| | - Fredi Janett
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Hubert Pausch
- Animal Genomics, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zürich, Eschikon 27, 8315, Lindau, Switzerland
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14
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Diagnosis and Treatment of Male Infertility-Related Fertilization Failure. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9123899. [PMID: 33271815 PMCID: PMC7761017 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9123899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately 15% of reproductive-aged couples worldwide, of which up to 30% of the cases are caused by male factors alone. The origin of male infertility is mostly attributed to sperm abnormalities, of which many are caused by genetic defects. The development of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has helped to circumvent most male infertility conditions. However, there is still a challenging group of infertile males whose sperm, although having normal sperm parameters, are unable to activate the oocyte, even after ICSI treatment. While ICSI generally allows fertilization rates of 70 to 80%, total fertilization failure (FF) still occurs in 1 to 3% of ICSI cycles. Phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) has been demonstrated to be a critical sperm oocyte activating factor (SOAF) and the absence, reduced, or altered forms of PLCζ have been shown to cause male infertility-related FF. The purpose of this review is to (i) summarize the current knowledge on PLCζ as the critical sperm factor for successful fertilization, as well as to discuss the existence of alternative sperm-induced oocyte activation mechanisms, (ii) describe the diagnostic tests available to determine the cause of FF, and (iii) summarize the beneficial effect of assisted oocyte activation (AOA) to overcome FF.
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15
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Beurois J, Cazin C, Kherraf ZE, Martinez G, Celse T, Touré A, Arnoult C, Ray PF, Coutton C. Genetics of teratozoospermia: Back to the head. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 34:101473. [PMID: 33183966 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2020.101473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Spermatozoa are polarized cells with a head and a flagellum joined by the connecting piece. Head integrity is critical for normal sperm function, and head defects consistently lead to male infertility. Abnormalities of the sperm head are among the most severe and characteristic sperm defects. Patients presenting with a monomorphic head sperm defects such as globozoospermia or marcrozoospermia were analyzed permitting to identify several key genes for spermatogenesis such as AURKC and DPY19L2. The study of patients with other specific sperm head defects such as acephalic spermatozoa have also enabled the identification of new infertility genes such as SUN5. Here, we review the genetic causes leading to morphological defects of sperm head. Advances in the genetics of male infertility are necessary to improve the management of infertility and will pave the road towards future strategies of treatments, especially for patients with the most severe phenotype as sperm head defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Beurois
- Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Caroline Cazin
- Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Zine-Eddine Kherraf
- Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, 38000, Grenoble, France; CHU de Grenoble, UM GI-DPI, Grenoble, F-38000, France
| | - Guillaume Martinez
- Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, 38000, Grenoble, France; CHU de Grenoble, UM GI-DPI, Grenoble, F-38000, France; CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM de Génétique Chromosomique, Grenoble, France
| | - Tristan Celse
- Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, 38000, Grenoble, France; CHU de Grenoble, UM GI-DPI, Grenoble, F-38000, France; CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM de Génétique Chromosomique, Grenoble, France
| | - Aminata Touré
- Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Christophe Arnoult
- Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Pierre F Ray
- Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, 38000, Grenoble, France; CHU de Grenoble, UM GI-DPI, Grenoble, F-38000, France
| | - Charles Coutton
- Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, 38000, Grenoble, France; CHU de Grenoble, UM GI-DPI, Grenoble, F-38000, France; CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM de Génétique Chromosomique, Grenoble, France.
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16
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Jiao SY, Yang YH, Chen SR. Molecular genetics of infertility: loss-of-function mutations in humans and corresponding knockout/mutated mice. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:154-189. [PMID: 33118031 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is a major issue in human reproductive health, affecting an estimated 15% of couples worldwide. Infertility can result from disorders of sex development (DSD) or from reproductive endocrine disorders (REDs) with onset in infancy, early childhood or adolescence. Male infertility, accounting for roughly half of all infertility cases, generally manifests as decreased sperm count (azoospermia or oligozoospermia), attenuated sperm motility (asthenozoospermia) or a higher proportion of morphologically abnormal sperm (teratozoospermia). Female infertility can be divided into several classical types, including, but not limited to, oocyte maturation arrest, premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), fertilization failure and early embryonic arrest. An estimated one half of infertility cases have a genetic component; however, most genetic causes of human infertility are currently uncharacterized. The advent of high-throughput sequencing technologies has greatly facilitated the identification of infertility-associated gene mutations in patients over the past 20 years. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aims to conduct a narrative review of the genetic causes of human infertility. Loss-of-function mutation discoveries related to human infertility are summarized and further illustrated in tables. Corresponding knockout/mutated animal models of causative genes for infertility are also introduced. SEARCH METHODS A search of the PubMed database was performed to identify relevant studies published in English. The term 'mutation' was combined with a range of search terms related to the core focus of the review: infertility, DSD, REDs, azoospermia or oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella (MMAF), primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), acephalic spermatozoa syndrome (ASS), globozoospermia, teratozoospermia, acrosome, oocyte maturation arrest, POI, zona pellucida, fertilization defects and early embryonic arrest. OUTCOMES Our search generated ∼2000 records. Overall, 350 articles were included in the final review. For genetic investigation of human infertility, the traditional candidate gene approach is proceeding slowly, whereas high-throughput sequencing technologies in larger cohorts of individuals is identifying an increasing number of causative genes linked to human infertility. This review provides a wide panel of gene mutations in several typical forms of human infertility, including DSD, REDs, male infertility (oligozoospermia, MMAF, PCD, ASS and globozoospermia) and female infertility (oocyte maturation arrest, POI, fertilization failure and early embryonic arrest). The causative genes, their identified mutations, mutation rate, studied population and their corresponding knockout/mutated mice of non-obstructive azoospermia, MMAF, ASS, globozoospermia, oocyte maturation arrest, POI, fertilization failure and early embryonic arrest are further illustrated by tables. In this review, we suggest that (i) our current knowledge of infertility is largely obtained from knockout mouse models; (ii) larger cohorts of clinical cases with distinct clinical characteristics need to be recruited in future studies; (iii) the whole picture of genetic causes of human infertility relies on both the identification of more mutations for distinct types of infertility and the integration of known mutation information; (iv) knockout/mutated animal models are needed to show whether the phenotypes of genetically altered animals are consistent with findings in human infertile patients carrying a deleterious mutation of the homologous gene; and (v) the molecular mechanisms underlying human infertility caused by pathogenic mutations are largely unclear in most current studies. WILDER IMPLICATIONS It is important to use our current understanding to identify avenues and priorities for future research in the field of genetic causes of infertility as well as to apply mutation knowledge to risk prediction, genetic diagnosis and potential treatment for human infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Ya Jiao
- Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation & Regulation Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, 100875 Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Hong Yang
- Reproduction Medical Center of West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, 610041 Chengdu, China
| | - Su-Ren Chen
- Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation & Regulation Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, 100875 Beijing, China
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17
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Celse T, Cazin C, Mietton F, Martinez G, Martinez D, Thierry-Mieg N, Septier A, Guillemain C, Beurois J, Clergeau A, Mustapha SFB, Kharouf M, Zoghmar A, Chargui A, Papaxanthos A, Dorphin B, Foliguet B, Triki C, Sifer C, Lauton D, Tachdjian G, Schuler G, Lejeune H, Puechberty J, Bessonnat J, Pasquier L, Mery L, Poulain M, Chaabouni M, Sermondade N, Cabry R, Benbouhadja S, Veau S, Frapsauce C, Mitchell V, Achard V, Satre V, Hennebicq S, Zouari R, Arnoult C, Kherraf ZE, Coutton C, Ray PF. Genetic analyses of a large cohort of infertile patients with globozoospermia, DPY19L2 still the main actor, GGN confirmed as a guest player. Hum Genet 2020; 140:43-57. [PMID: 33108537 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-020-02229-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Globozoospermia is a rare phenotype of primary male infertility inducing the production of round-headed spermatozoa without acrosome. Anomalies of DPY19L2 account for 50-70% of all cases and the entire deletion of the gene is by far the most frequent defect identified. Here, we present a large cohort of 69 patients with 20-100% of globozoospermia. Genetic analyses including multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification, Sanger sequencing and whole-exome sequencing identified 25 subjects with a homozygous DPY19L2 deletion (36%) and 14 carrying other DPY19L2 defects (20%). Overall, 11 deleterious single-nucleotide variants were identified including eight novel and three already published mutations. Patients with a higher rate of round-headed spermatozoa were more often diagnosed and had a higher proportion of loss of function anomalies, highlighting a good genotype phenotype correlation. No gene defects were identified in patients carrying < 50% of globozoospermia while diagnosis efficiency rose to 77% for patients with > 50% of globozoospermia. In addition, results from whole-exome sequencing were scrutinized for 23 patients with a DPY19L2 negative diagnosis, searching for deleterious variants in the nine other genes described to be associated with globozoospermia in human (C2CD6, C7orf61, CCDC62, CCIN, DNAH17, GGN, PICK1, SPATA16, and ZPBP1). Only one homozygous novel truncating variant was identified in the GGN gene in one patient, confirming the association of GGN with globozoospermia. In view of these results, we propose a novel diagnostic strategy focusing on patients with at least 50% of globozoospermia and based on a classical qualitative PCR to detect DPY19L2 homozygous deletions. In the absence of the latter, we recommend to perform whole-exome sequencing to search for defects in DPY19L2 as well as in the other previously described candidate genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Celse
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM GI-DPI, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Caroline Cazin
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM GI-DPI, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Flore Mietton
- CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM GI-DPI, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Guillaume Martinez
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM de Génétique Chromosomique, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | | | | | - Amandine Septier
- Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, TIMC-IMAG, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Catherine Guillemain
- Pôle Femmes-Parents-Enfants, Centre Clinico-Biologique AMP-CECOS, Plateforme Cancer et Fertilité ONCOPACA-Corse, Assistance-Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France.,Aix Marseille University, INSERM, MMG, UMR_S 1251, Marseille, France
| | - Julie Beurois
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | | | | | - Mahmoud Kharouf
- Polyclinique les Jasmins, Centre d'Aide Médicale à la Procréation, Centre Urbain Nord, 1003, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Abdelali Zoghmar
- Reproduction Sciences and Surgery Clinique, Ibn Rochd, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Ahmed Chargui
- Faculté de Médecine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Service d'Histologie-Embryologie-Biologie de la Reproduction, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Aline Papaxanthos
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Bordeaux University Hospital, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Bernard Foliguet
- Toxicology and Molecular Biology, Institute Jean Lamour UMR 7198 du CNRS, Université de Lorraine, 54000, Nancy, France
| | - Chema Triki
- Centre d'AMP, Clinique Hannibal, Les Berges du Lac, 1053, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Christophe Sifer
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, d'Histo-Embryologie et Cytogénétique, Hôpital Jean-Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140, Bondy, France
| | - Dominique Lauton
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier, France
| | - Gérard Tachdjian
- UMR 967, INSERM, Service d'Histologie Embryologie et Cytogénétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Sud, AP-HP, Clamart, France
| | | | - Hervé Lejeune
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Jacques Puechberty
- Département de Génétique Médicale, Maladies Rares et Médecine Personnalisée, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHU de Montpellier, Université Montpelier, Montpellier, France
| | - Julien Bessonnat
- CHU de Grenoble, UF de Biologie de la Procréation, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Laurent Pasquier
- Service de Génétique Clinique, CLAD Ouest, CHU Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Lionel Mery
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, CHU de Saint-Étienne, Hôpital Nord, 42055, Saint-Étienne Cedex 2, France
| | - Marine Poulain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Foch, Université de Paris Ouest (UVSQ), Suresnes, France
| | - Myriam Chaabouni
- Polyclinique les Jasmins, Centre d'Aide Médicale à la Procréation, Centre Urbain Nord, 1003, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Nathalie Sermondade
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Hôpital Tenon, AP-HP, 75020, Paris, France
| | - Rosalie Cabry
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Picardie University Jules Verne, Amiens University Medical Centre, Amiens, France
| | - Sebti Benbouhadja
- Reproduction Sciences and Surgery Clinique, Ibn Rochd, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Ségolène Veau
- CHU, Centre d'AMP-CECOS, University Rennes, 16 Boulevard de Bulgarie, 35000, Rennes, France
| | - Cynthia Frapsauce
- CHU Bretonneau, Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Tours, France
| | - Valérie Mitchell
- EA 4308, Department of Reproductive Biology and Spermiology-CECOS Lille, University Medical Center, 59037, Lille, France
| | - Vincent Achard
- CECOS-Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction, Pôle de Gynécologie Obstétrique et Reproduction (Gynépôle), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM) la Conception, 13005, Marseille, France.,Centre Clinico-Biologique d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, Pôle de Gynécologie Obstétrique et Reproduction (Gynépôle), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM) la Conception, 13005, Marseille, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Institut Méditerranéen de Biodiversité et d'Écologie (IMBE UMR 7263), Equipe Biogénotoxicologie, Santé Humaine et Environnement, Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, IRD, Université Avignon, 27, Boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385, Marseille Cedex 5, France
| | - Veronique Satre
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM de Génétique Chromosomique, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Sylviane Hennebicq
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000, Grenoble, France.,CHU de Grenoble, UF de Biologie de la Procréation, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Raoudha Zouari
- Pôle Femmes-Parents-Enfants, Centre Clinico-Biologique AMP-CECOS, Plateforme Cancer et Fertilité ONCOPACA-Corse, Assistance-Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France
| | - Christophe Arnoult
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Zine-Eddine Kherraf
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM GI-DPI, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Charles Coutton
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM de Génétique Chromosomique, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Pierre F Ray
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Université Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, 38000, Grenoble, France. .,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM GI-DPI, 38000, Grenoble, France.
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18
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Li YZ, Wu RF, Zhu XS, Liu WS, Ye YY, Lu ZX, Li N. Identification of a novel deletion mutation in DPY19L2 from an infertile patient with globozoospermia: a case report. Mol Cytogenet 2020; 13:24. [PMID: 32582379 PMCID: PMC7310204 DOI: 10.1186/s13039-020-00495-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Male infertility is an increasing medical concern worldwide. In most cases, genetic factors are considered as the main cause of the disease. Globozoospermia (MIM102530) (also known as round-headed sperm) is a rare and severe malformed spermatospermia caused by acrosome deficiency or severe malformation. A subset of genetic mutations, such as DNAH6, SPATA16, DPY19L2, PICK1, and CCIN related to globozoospermia, have been reported in the past few years. The DPY19L2 mutation is commonly found in patients with globozoospermia. Herein, a 180-kbp homozygote deletion at 12q14.2 (g.63950001–64130000) was identified by copy number variation sequencing (CNVseq) in a patient with a globozoospermia, including the complete deletion of DPY19L2. Case presentation A 27-year-old patient at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University was diagnosed with infertility because, despite normal sexual activity for 4 years, his wife did not conceive. The patient was in good health with no obvious discomfort, no history of adverse chemical exposure, and no vices, such as smoking and drinking. The physical examination revealed normal genital development. However, semen tests showed a normal sperm count of 0% and the morphology was the round head. Sperm cytology showed that acrosomal enzyme was lower than normal. Reproductive hormones were in the normal range. B ultrasound did not show any abnormal seminal vesicle, prostate, bilateral testis, epididymis, and spermatic veins. The karyotype was normal, 46, XY, and no microdeletion of Y chromosome was detected. However, a homozygous deletion mutation was found in DPY19L2, which was further diagnosed as globozoospermia. Conclusions The present study reported a male infertility patient who was diagnosed with globozoospermia. The analysis of gene mutations revealed that DPY19L2 had a homozygous mutation, which was the primary cause of globozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Zhu Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, No. 6 Guchengxi Road, Si Ming, Xiamen, 361003 China
| | - Rong-Feng Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, No. 6 Guchengxi Road, Si Ming, Xiamen, 361003 China
| | - Xing-Shen Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005 Fujian China
| | - Wen-Sheng Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005 Fujian China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Ye
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, No. 6 Guchengxi Road, Si Ming, Xiamen, 361003 China
| | - Zhong-Xian Lu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005 Fujian China
| | - Na Li
- Intensive Care Unit, Fujian Medical University Xiamen Humanity Hospital, No.3777 Xianyue Road, Huli, Xiamen, 361009 China
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19
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Sironen A, Shoemark A, Patel M, Loebinger MR, Mitchison HM. Sperm defects in primary ciliary dyskinesia and related causes of male infertility. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:2029-2048. [PMID: 31781811 PMCID: PMC7256033 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03389-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The core axoneme structure of both the motile cilium and sperm tail has the same ultrastructural 9 + 2 microtubular arrangement. Thus, it can be expected that genetic defects in motile cilia also have an effect on sperm tail formation. However, recent studies in human patients, animal models and model organisms have indicated that there are differences in components of specific structures within the cilia and sperm tail axonemes. Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a genetic disease with symptoms caused by malfunction of motile cilia such as chronic nasal discharge, ear, nose and chest infections and pulmonary disease (bronchiectasis). Half of the patients also have situs inversus and in many cases male infertility has been reported. PCD genes have a role in motile cilia biogenesis, structure and function. To date mutations in over 40 genes have been identified cause PCD, but the exact effect of these mutations on spermatogenesis is poorly understood. Furthermore, mutations in several additional axonemal genes have recently been identified to cause a sperm-specific phenotype, termed multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella (MMAF). In this review, we discuss the association of PCD genes and other axonemal genes with male infertility, drawing particular attention to possible differences between their functions in motile cilia and sperm tails.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anu Sironen
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK.
| | - Amelia Shoemark
- Department of Paediatrics, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, UK
- School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Mitali Patel
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Michael R Loebinger
- Host Defence Unit, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Hannah M Mitchison
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
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20
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Lorenzi D, Fernández C, Bilinski M, Fabbro M, Galain M, Menazzi S, Miguens M, Perassi PN, Fulco MF, Kopelman S, Fiszbajn G, Nodar F, Papier S. First custom next-generation sequencing infertility panel in Latin America: design and first results. JBRA Assist Reprod 2020; 24:104-114. [PMID: 32155011 PMCID: PMC7169920 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20190065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To present the development of the first custom gene panel for the diagnosis of male and female infertility in Latin America. Methods We developed a next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel that assesses genes associated with infertility. The panel targeted exons and their flanking regions. Selected introns in the CFTR gene were also included. The FMR1 gene and Y chromosome microdeletions were analyzed with other recommended methodologies. An in-house developed bioinformatic pipeline was applied for the interpretation of the results. Clear infertility phenotypes, idiopathic infertility, and samples with known pathogenic variants were evaluated. Results A total of 75 genes were selected based on female (primary ovarian insufficiency, risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, recurrent pregnancy loss, oocyte maturation defects, and embryo development arrest) and male conditions (azoospermia, severe oligospermia, asthenozoospermia, and teratozoospermia). The panel designed was used to assess 25 DNA samples. Two of the variants found were classified as pathogenic and enable the diagnosis of a woman with secondary amenorrhea and a man with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia. Targeted NGS assay metrics resulted in a mean of 180X coverage, with more than 98% of the bases covered ≥20X. Conclusion Our custom gene sequencing panel designed for the diagnosis of male and female infertility caused by genetic defects revealed the underlying genetic cause of some cases of infertility. The panel will allow us to develop more precise approaches in assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mariana Miguens
- Centro de Estudios en Genética y Reproducción (CEGYR). Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Susana Kopelman
- Centro de Estudios en Genética y Reproducción (CEGYR). Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Florencia Nodar
- Novagen. Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Centro de Estudios en Genética y Reproducción (CEGYR). Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sergio Papier
- Novagen. Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Centro de Estudios en Genética y Reproducción (CEGYR). Buenos Aires, Argentina
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21
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Katigbak RD, Turchini GM, de Graaf SP, Kong L, Dumée LF. Review on Sperm Sorting Technologies and Sperm Properties toward New Separation Methods via the Interface of Biochemistry and Material Science. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 3:e1900079. [PMID: 32648656 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201900079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Successful fertilization in mammals requires spermatozoa to efficiently traverse the female reproductive tract to meet the egg. This process naturally selects high quality sperm cells for fertilization, but when artificial reproductive technologies are used such as in vitro fertilization, intracytoplasmic sperm injection, or intrauterine insemination, other methods of sperm selection are required. Currently, technology enables sperm sorting based on motility, maturity as defined by zeta potential or hyaluronic acid binding site expression, absence of apoptotic factors, appropriate morphology, and even sex. This review summarizes current knowledge on all known methods of sperm cell sorting, compares their efficiency, and discusses the advantages and limitations of each technique. Scope for further refinement and improvement of current methods are discussed as is the potential to utilize a variety of materials to innovate new methods of sperm separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto D Katigbak
- Deakin University, Geelong, Institute for Frontier Materials, Waurn Ponds 3216, Victoria, Australia
| | - Giovanni M Turchini
- Deakin University, Geelong, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Burwood, 3125, Victoria, Australia
| | - Simon P de Graaf
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lingxue Kong
- Deakin University, Geelong, Institute for Frontier Materials, Waurn Ponds 3216, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ludovic F Dumée
- Deakin University, Geelong, Institute for Frontier Materials, Waurn Ponds 3216, Victoria, Australia
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22
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Ghédir H, Braham A, Viville S, Saad A, Ibala-Romdhane S. Comparison of sperm morphology and nuclear sperm quality in SPATA16- and DPY19L2-mutated globozoospermic patients. Andrologia 2019; 51:e13277. [PMID: 30912172 DOI: 10.1111/and.13277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare the sperm morphology and nuclear sperm quality (sperm aneuploidy and DNA fragmentation) in two groups of globozoospermic patients: DPY19L2-mutated patients (n = 6) and SPATA16-mutated patients (n = 2). Results for these two groups were also compared to a group of fertile men (n = 25). Fluorescence in situ hybridisation was performed for chromosomes X, Y and 18. Sperm DNA fragmentation was evaluated by TUNEL assay. Sanger sequencing was performed for mutations screening of DPY19L2 and SPATA16 genes. Sperm analysis revealed a classic phenotype of total globozoospermia in DPY19L2-mutated group and a particular phenotype characterised by a predominance of double/multiple round-headed (39.00 ± 4.2%) and multi-tailed spermatozoa (26.00 ± 16.97%) in SPATA16-mutated group. FISH analysis showed a significantly higher aneuploidy rate in globozoospermic patients compared to controls (p < 0.05), and a higher rate was observed in SPATA16-mutated group compared to DPY19L2-mutated group (p < 0.05). DNA fragmentation index was significantly higher in globozoospermic men compared to controls (p < 0.001), and there is no statistically significant difference between the two globozoospermic groups. We showed that SPATA16 defects could be associated with an abnormal meiosis leading to a particular morphological sperm defect of double/multiple round-headed and multi-flagella and a higher sperm aneuploidy rate than in case of DPY19L2-defects in classic globozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houda Ghédir
- Laboratoire de Cytogénétique, Génétique Moléculaire et Biologie de la Reproduction Humaine, CHU Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisie
| | - Asma Braham
- Laboratoire de Cytogénétique, Génétique Moléculaire et Biologie de la Reproduction Humaine, CHU Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisie
| | - Stéphane Viville
- Laboratoire de Diagnostic Génétique, UF3472-génétique de l'infertilité, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Ali Saad
- Laboratoire de Cytogénétique, Génétique Moléculaire et Biologie de la Reproduction Humaine, CHU Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisie.,Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Université de Sousse, Sousse, Tunisie
| | - Samira Ibala-Romdhane
- Laboratoire de Cytogénétique, Génétique Moléculaire et Biologie de la Reproduction Humaine, CHU Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisie.,Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Université de Sousse, Sousse, Tunisie
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23
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Abstract
Male infertility is a multifactorial and heterogeneous pathological condition affecting 7% of the general male population. The genetic landscape of male infertility is highly complex as semen and testis histological phenotypes are extremely heterogeneous, and at least 2000 genes are predicted to be involved in spermatogenesis. Genetic factors have been described in each etiological category of male reproductive impairment: (1) hypothalamic-pituitary axis dysfunction; (2) quantitative and qualitative alterations of spermatogenesis; (3) ductal obstruction/dysfunction. In 25% of azoospermic and in 10% of oligozoospermic men, a genetic anomaly can be diagnosed with the current genetic testing. However, up to now, only a relatively low number of monogenic factors have a clear-cut cause-effect relationship with impaired reproductive function. Thanks to the widespread diffusion of Next-Generation Sequencing, a continuously increasing number of monogenic causes of male infertility are being discovered and their validation is currently ongoing. The identification of genetic factors is of outmost clinical importance since there is a risk of transmission of genetic defects through natural or assisted reproductive techniques. The benefit of the genetic diagnosis of infertility has an obvious clinical significance for the patient itself with implications not only for his reproductive health but in many instances also for his general health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csilla Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - Antoni Riera-Escamilla
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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24
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Ben Rhouma M, Okutman O, Muller J, Benkhalifa M, Bahri H, Ben Rhouma K, Tebourbi O, Viville S. [Genetic aspects of male infertility: From bench to clinic]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 47:54-62. [PMID: 30514637 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2018.11.004] [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: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of our manuscript is to review the current state of research on the genetics of male infertility, highlighting the genetic abnormalities that can lead to non-syndromic male infertility and genetic testing proposed to patients. It is intended primarily for clinicians and biologists of reproductive medicine. METHODS A comprehensive review of the scientific literature available on PubMed was conducted using keywords related to male infertility and genetics. Since the first genes related to non-syndromic male infertility were identified after the 2000s, bibliographic research was conducted after this date. RESULTS Thirty-three genes have been identified as responsible for non-syndromic male infertility. The evolution of techniques based on whole genome analysis has allowed the development of more successful methods in the identification of new genes and mutations inducing an infertility phenotype. Through this article, we propose, by concrete examples, a clinical approach for genetic tests considering the semen analysis alterations. CONCLUSIONS The identification and characterization of these genes and the mutations responsible for certain infertility phenotypes allow better management and better treatment for patients as well as a better understanding of the physiopathological mechanisms of human gametogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ben Rhouma
- Institut de parasitologie et pathologie tropicale, EA 7292, fédération de médecine translationelle, université de Strasbourg, 3, rue Koeberlé, 67000 Strasbourg, France; Laboratoire de physiologie intégrée, UR11S33, faculté des sciences de Bizerte, université de Carthage, 7021 Jarzouna-Bizerte, Tunisie; Laboratoire de diagnostic génétique, UF3472-génétique de l'infertilité, hôpitaux universitaires de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - O Okutman
- Institut de parasitologie et pathologie tropicale, EA 7292, fédération de médecine translationelle, université de Strasbourg, 3, rue Koeberlé, 67000 Strasbourg, France; Laboratoire de diagnostic génétique, UF3472-génétique de l'infertilité, hôpitaux universitaires de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - J Muller
- Laboratoire de diagnostic génétique, UF3472-génétique de l'infertilité, hôpitaux universitaires de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - M Benkhalifa
- Médecine de la reproduction et cytogénétique médicale, CHU et faculté de médecine, université de Picardie Jules-Verne, 80000, Amiens, France
| | - H Bahri
- Alyssa Fertility Group, Clinique Alyssa, rue du lac Léman 1053, Les Berges du Lac, Tunis, Tunisie
| | - K Ben Rhouma
- Laboratoire de physiologie intégrée, UR11S33, faculté des sciences de Bizerte, université de Carthage, 7021 Jarzouna-Bizerte, Tunisie
| | - O Tebourbi
- Laboratoire de physiologie intégrée, UR11S33, faculté des sciences de Bizerte, université de Carthage, 7021 Jarzouna-Bizerte, Tunisie
| | - S Viville
- Institut de parasitologie et pathologie tropicale, EA 7292, fédération de médecine translationelle, université de Strasbourg, 3, rue Koeberlé, 67000 Strasbourg, France; Laboratoire de diagnostic génétique, UF3472-génétique de l'infertilité, hôpitaux universitaires de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France.
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25
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Yang X, Zhu D, Zhang H, Jiang Y, Hu X, Geng D, Wang R, Liu R. Associations between DNAH1 gene polymorphisms and male infertility: A retrospective study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e13493. [PMID: 30544445 PMCID: PMC6310528 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000013493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic abnormalities could account for 10% to 15% of male infertility cases, so increasing attention is being paid to gene mutations in this context. DNAH1 gene polymorphisms are highly correlated with astheno-teratozoospermia, but limited information has been reported on pathogenic variations in DNAH1 in the Chinese population. We explored 4 novel variations of the DNAH1 gene in Chinese infertile patients. Mutation screening of the DNAH1 gene was performed on 87 cases of asthenozoospermia with targeted high-throughput sequencing technology; another 200 nonobstructive azoospermia cases were further analyzed to investigate the prevalence of DNAH1 variations. The effects of the variations on protein function were further assessed by bioinformatic prediction. For carriers of DNAH1 variations, genetic counseling should be considered. Assisted reproductive technologies should be performed for these individuals and microsurgery should be considered for patients with azoospermia. DNAH1 variations were identified in 6 of 287 patients. These included 8 heterozygous variations in exons and a splicing site. Among these, 4 variations (g.52400764G>C, g.52409336C>T, g.52430999_52431000del, g.52412624C>A) had already been registered in the 1000 Genomes and Exome Aggregation Consortium databases. The other 4 novel variations (g.52418050del, g.52404762T>G, g.52430536del, g.52412620del) were all predicted to be pathogenic by in silico analysis. The variations g.52418050del and g.52430999_52431000del were detected in 1 patient who was more severe than another patient with the variation g.52430999_52431000del. Physicians should be aware of genetic variants in male infertility patients and DNAH1 mutations should be considered in patients with asthenospermia or azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Dongliang Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Hongguo Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Yuting Jiang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Xiaonan Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Dongfeng Geng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Ruixue Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Ruizhi Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Jilin, China
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26
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Genetic evaluation of patients with non-syndromic male infertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:1939-1951. [PMID: 30259277 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1301-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This review provides an update on the genetics of male infertility with emphasis on the current state of research, the genetic disorders that can lead to non-syndromic male infertility, and the genetic tests available for patients. METHODS A comprehensive review of the scientific literature referenced in PubMed was conducted using keywords related to male infertility and genetics. The search included articles with English abstracts appearing online after 2000. RESULTS Mutations in 31 distinct genes have been identified as a cause of non-syndromic human male infertility, and the number is increasing constantly. Screening gene panels by high-throughput sequencing can be offered to patients in order to identify genes involved in various forms of human non-syndromic infertility. We propose a workflow for genetic tests which takes into account semen alterations. CONCLUSIONS The identification and characterization of the genetic basis of male infertility have broad implications not only for understanding the cause of infertility but also in determining the prognosis, selection of treatment options, and management of couples. Genetic diagnosis is essential for the success of ART techniques and for preserving future fertility as well as the prognosis for testicular sperm extraction (TESE) and adopted therapeutics.
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27
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Guidi LG, Holloway ZG, Arnoult C, Ray PF, Monaco AP, Molnár Z, Velayos-Baeza A. AU040320 deficiency leads to disruption of acrosome biogenesis and infertility in homozygous mutant mice. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10379. [PMID: 29991750 PMCID: PMC6039479 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28666-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Study of knockout (KO) mice has helped understand the link between many genes/proteins and human diseases. Identification of infertile KO mice provides valuable tools to characterize the molecular mechanisms underlying gamete formation. The KIAA0319L gene has been described to have a putative association with dyslexia; surprisingly, we observed that homozygous KO males for AU040320, KIAA0319L ortholog, are infertile and present a globozoospermia-like phenotype. Mutant spermatozoa are mostly immotile and display a malformed roundish head with no acrosome. In round spermatids, proacrosomal vesicles accumulate close to the acroplaxome but fail to coalesce into a single acrosomal vesicle. In wild-type mice AU040320 localises to the trans-Golgi-Network of germ cells but cannot be detected in mature acrosomes. Our results suggest AU040320 may be necessary for the normal formation of proacrosomal vesicles or the recruitment of cargo proteins required for downstream events leading to acrosomal fusion. Mutations in KIAA0319L could lead to human infertility; we screened for KIAA0319L mutations in a selected cohort of globozoospermia patients in which no genetic abnormalities have been previously identified, but detected no pathogenic changes in this particular cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz G Guidi
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QX, UK
| | - Zoe G Holloway
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Christophe Arnoult
- Genetic Epigenetic and Therapies of Infertility, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Inserm U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, F-38000, France
| | - Pierre F Ray
- Genetic Epigenetic and Therapies of Infertility, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Inserm U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, F-38000, France
- UM GI-DPI, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, F-38000, France
| | - Anthony P Monaco
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
- Office of the President, Ballou Hall, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Zoltán Molnár
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QX, UK.
| | - Antonio Velayos-Baeza
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK.
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QX, UK.
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28
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Harper JC, Aittomäki K, Borry P, Cornel MC, de Wert G, Dondorp W, Geraedts J, Gianaroli L, Ketterson K, Liebaers I, Lundin K, Mertes H, Morris M, Pennings G, Sermon K, Spits C, Soini S, van Montfoort APA, Veiga A, Vermeesch JR, Viville S, Macek M. Recent developments in genetics and medically assisted reproduction: from research to clinical applications. Eur J Hum Genet 2018; 26:12-33. [PMID: 29199274 PMCID: PMC5839000 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-017-0016-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Two leading European professional societies, the European Society of Human Genetics and the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology, have worked together since 2004 to evaluate the impact of fast research advances at the interface of assisted reproduction and genetics, including their application into clinical practice. In September 2016, the expert panel met for the third time. The topics discussed highlighted important issues covering the impacts of expanded carrier screening, direct-to-consumer genetic testing, voiding of the presumed anonymity of gamete donors by advanced genetic testing, advances in the research of genetic causes underlying male and female infertility, utilisation of massively parallel sequencing in preimplantation genetic testing and non-invasive prenatal screening, mitochondrial replacement in human oocytes, and additionally, issues related to cross-generational epigenetic inheritance following IVF and germline genome editing. The resulting paper represents a consensus of both professional societies involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Harper
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - K Aittomäki
- Laboratory of Genetics, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - P Borry
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - M C Cornel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G de Wert
- Department of Health, Ethics and Society, Research Schools CAPHRI and GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - W Dondorp
- Department of Health, Ethics and Society, Research Schools CAPHRI and GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - J Geraedts
- Department Genetics and Cell Biology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - L Gianaroli
- S.I.S.Me.R. Reproductive Medicine Unit, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - I Liebaers
- Center for Medical Genetics, UZ Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - K Lundin
- Reproductive Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - H Mertes
- Bioethics Institute Ghent, Department of Philosophy and Moral Science, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - M Morris
- Synlab Genetics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - G Pennings
- Bioethics Institute Ghent, Department of Philosophy and Moral Science, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - K Sermon
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Spits
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - S Soini
- Helsinki Biobank, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A P A van Montfoort
- IVF Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - A Veiga
- Barcelona Stem Cell Bank, Centre of Regenerative Medicine in Barcelona, Hospital Duran i Reynals, Barcelona, Spain
- Reproductive Medicine Service of Dexeus Woman Health, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J R Vermeesch
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - S Viville
- Institute of Parasitology and Pathology, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, UF3472-Genetics of Infertility, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, Strasbourg, France
| | - M Macek
- Department of Biology and Medical Genetics, Charles University-2nd Faculty of Medicine and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic.
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29
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Kochhar PK, Ghosh P. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection with Assisted Oocyte Activation Resulting in Successful Pregnancies and Live Birth in Couples with Globozoospermia: A Report of Two Cases. J Hum Reprod Sci 2018; 11:72-74. [PMID: 29681719 PMCID: PMC5892107 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_47_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Globozoospermia, characterized by round-headed acrosomeless sperm, is a rare and severe form of teratozoospermia. We report a successful pregnancy in two cases of total globozoospermia after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with oocyte activation with calcium ionophore. In thefirst case, globozoospermia was diagnosed on the day of oocyte retrieval. Among 11 retrieved oocytes, only one fertilized after ICSI. The pregnancy test 2 weeks after embryo transfer was negative. Two months later, the patient underwent ovarian stimulation again. The 12 retrieved oocytes were exposed to calcium ionophore medium following ICSI. Four oocytes were fertilized and two blastocysts were transferred resulting in a clinical pregnancy. In the second case, among seven retrieved oocytes, three fertilized after ICSI and assisted oocyte activation, and two 8-cell embryos were transferred, resulting in a positive pregnancy. The successful outcome here justifies the use of ICSI with oocyte activation to improve the pregnancy rate significantly when dealing with globozoospermia.
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30
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Harper JC, Aittomäki K, Borry P, Cornel MC, de Wert G, Dondorp W, Geraedts J, Gianaroli L, Ketterson K, Liebaers I, Lundin K, Mertes H, Morris M, Pennings G, Sermon K, Spits C, Soini S, van Montfoort APA, Veiga A, Vermeesch JR, Viville S, Macek M. Recent developments in genetics and medically-assisted reproduction: from research to clinical applications †‡. Hum Reprod Open 2017; 2017:hox015. [PMID: 31486804 PMCID: PMC6276693 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hox015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Two leading European professional societies, the European Society of Human Genetics and the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology, have worked together since 2004 to evaluate the impact of fast research advances at the interface of assisted reproduction and genetics, including their application into clinical practice. In September 2016, the expert panel met for the third time. The topics discussed highlighted important issues covering the impacts of expanded carrier screening, direct-to-consumer genetic testing, voiding of the presumed anonymity of gamete donors by advanced genetic testing, advances in the research of genetic causes underlying male and female infertility, utilisation of massively-parallel sequencing in preimplantation genetic testing and non-invasive prenatal screening, mitochondrial replacement in human oocytes, and additionally, issues related to cross-generational epigenetic inheritance following IVF and germline genome editing. The resulting paper represents a consensus of both professional societies involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Harper
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - K Aittomäki
- Laboratory of Genetics, Helsinki University Hospital, PO Box 720, FI-00029, Helsinki, Finland
| | - P Borry
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35 - Box 7001. B-3000, Leuven Belgium
| | - M C Cornel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G de Wert
- Department of Health, Ethics and Society, Research Schools CAPHRI and GROW, Maastricht University, De Byeplein 1, 6229 HA Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - W Dondorp
- Department of Health, Ethics and Society, Research Schools CAPHRI and GROW, Maastricht University, De Byeplein 1, 6229 HA Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - J Geraedts
- Department Genetics and Cell Biology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - L Gianaroli
- S.I.S.Me.R. Reproductive Medicine Unit, Via Mazzini 12, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - K Ketterson
- Althea Science, Inc., 3 Regent St #301, Livingston, NJ 07039, USA
| | - I Liebaers
- Centre for Medical Genetics, UZ Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, B-1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - K Lundin
- Reproductive Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Blå Stråket 6, 413 45, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - H Mertes
- Bioethics Institute Ghent, Department of Philosophy and Moral Science, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - M Morris
- Synlab Genetics, chemin d'Entre-Bois 21, CH-1018, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - G Pennings
- Bioethics Institute Ghent, Department of Philosophy and Moral Science, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - K Sermon
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, B-1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Spits
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, B-1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - S Soini
- Helsinki Biobank, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Haartmaninkatu 3, PO Box 400, 00029 HUS, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A P A van Montfoort
- IVF laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maastricht University Medical Center, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - A Veiga
- Barcelona Stem Cell Bank, Centre of Regenerative Medicine in Barcelona, Hospital Duran i Reynals, Gran Via de l' Hospitalet 199, 08908, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Reproductive Medicine Service of Dexeus Woman Health, Gran Via Carles III, 71-75 - 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - J R Vermeesch
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, O&N I Herestraat 49 - Box 602, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - S Viville
- Institute of Parasitology and Pathology, University of Strasbourg, 3 rue Koberlé, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, UF3472-Genetics of Infertility, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, 1 place de l'Hôpital, 67091 Strasbourg cedex, France
| | - M Macek
- Department of Biology and Medical Genetics, Charles University 2nd Faculty of Medicine and Motol University Hospital, V Úvalu 84, Prague CZ-15006, Czech Republic
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31
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Roozbahani GA, Sheidai M, Noormohammadi Z, Gourabi H. Association study of SPATA - 16 polymorphism with male infertility in Iranian population. Meta Gene 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mgene.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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32
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Lehti MS, Sironen A. Formation and function of sperm tail structures in association with sperm motility defects†. Biol Reprod 2017; 97:522-536. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
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33
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Paci M, Elkhatib R, Longepied G, Hennebicq S, Bessonat J, Courbière B, Bourgeois P, Levy N, Mitchell MJ, Metzler-Guillemain C. Abnormal retention of nuclear lamina and disorganization of chromatin-related proteins in spermatozoa from DPY19L2-deleted globozoospermic patients. Reprod Biomed Online 2017; 35:562-570. [PMID: 28882431 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to characterize the nuclear lamina (NL) and lamin chromatin-partners in spermatozoa from four DPY19L2-deleted globozoospermic patients. We tested for spermatid transcripts encoding lamins and their chromatin-partners emerin, LAP2α, BAF and BAF-L, by reverse transcriptase-PCR using spermatozoa RNA. We also determined the localization of lamin B1, BAF and BAF-L by immunofluorescent analysis of spermatozoa from all patients. In RNA from globozoospermic and control spermatozoa we detected transcripts encoding lamin B1, lamin B3, emerin, LAP2α and BAF-L, but not A-type lamins. In contrast, BAF transcripts were detected in globozoospermic but not control spermatozoa. The NL was immature in human globozoospermic spermatozoa: lamin B1 signal was detected in the nuclei of globozoospermic spermatozoa in significantly higher proportions than the control (P < 0.05; 56-91% versus 40%) and was predominantly observed at the whole nuclear periphery, not polarized as in control spermatozoa. Conversely, BAF and BAF-L were detected in control, but not globozoospermic spermatozoa. Our results strongly emphasize the importance of the NL and associated proteins during human spermiogenesis. In globozoospermia, the lack of maturation of the NL, and the modifications in expression and location of chromatin-partners, could explain the chromatin defects observed in this rare phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marine Paci
- Aix Marseille University, Inserm, GMGF, 13385 Marseille, Cedex 5, France; APHM Hôpital La Conception, Pôle Femmes-Parents-Enfants, Centre Clinico-Biologique d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation-CECOS, 13385 Marseille, Cedex 5, France
| | - Razan Elkhatib
- Aix Marseille University, Inserm, GMGF, 13385 Marseille, Cedex 5, France
| | - Guy Longepied
- Aix Marseille University, Inserm, GMGF, 13385 Marseille, Cedex 5, France
| | - Sylviane Hennebicq
- CHU de Grenoble, Centre d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation-CECOS, BP217, Grenoble Cedex 9, France
| | - Julien Bessonat
- CHU de Grenoble, Centre d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation-CECOS, BP217, Grenoble Cedex 9, France
| | - Blandine Courbière
- APHM Hôpital La Conception, Pôle Femmes-Parents-Enfants, Centre Clinico-Biologique d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation-CECOS, 13385 Marseille, Cedex 5, France
| | - Patrice Bourgeois
- Aix Marseille University, Inserm, GMGF, 13385 Marseille, Cedex 5, France
| | - Nicolas Levy
- Aix Marseille University, Inserm, GMGF, 13385 Marseille, Cedex 5, France
| | - Michael J Mitchell
- Aix Marseille University, Inserm, GMGF, 13385 Marseille, Cedex 5, France
| | - Catherine Metzler-Guillemain
- Aix Marseille University, Inserm, GMGF, 13385 Marseille, Cedex 5, France; APHM Hôpital La Conception, Pôle Femmes-Parents-Enfants, Centre Clinico-Biologique d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation-CECOS, 13385 Marseille, Cedex 5, France.
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34
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Ray PF, Toure A, Metzler-Guillemain C, Mitchell MJ, Arnoult C, Coutton C. Genetic abnormalities leading to qualitative defects of sperm morphology or function. Clin Genet 2016; 91:217-232. [PMID: 27779748 DOI: 10.1111/cge.12905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Infertility, defined by the inability of conceiving a child after 1 year is estimated to concern approximately 50 million couples worldwide. As the male gamete is readily accessible and can be studied by a simple spermogram it is easier to subcategorize male than female infertility. Subjects with a specific sperm phenotype are more likely to have a common origin thus facilitating the search for causal factors. Male infertility is believed to be often multifactorial and caused by both genetic and extrinsic factors, but severe cases of male infertility are likely to have a predominant genetic etiology. Patients presenting with a monomorphic teratozoospermia such as globozoospermia or macrospermia with more than 85% of the spermatozoa presenting this specific abnormality have been analyzed permitting to identify several key genes for spermatogenesis such as AURKC and DPY19L2. The study of patients with other specific sperm anomalies such as severe alteration of sperm motility, in particular multiple morphological anomalies of the sperm flagella (MMAF) or sperm unability to fertilize the oocyte (oocyte activation failure syndrome) has also enable the identification of new infertility genes. Here we review the recent works describing the identification and characterization of gene defects having a direct qualitative effect on sperm morphology or function.
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Affiliation(s)
- P F Ray
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.,Institut for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France.,UF de Biochimie et Génétique Moléculaire, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - A Toure
- Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France.,CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Paris Cité, Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | | | | | - C Arnoult
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.,Institut for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France
| | - C Coutton
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.,Institut for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France.,UF de Génétique Chromosomique, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
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35
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The control of male fertility by spermatid-specific factors: searching for contraceptive targets from spermatozoon's head to tail. Cell Death Dis 2016; 7:e2472. [PMID: 27831554 PMCID: PMC5260884 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2016.344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2016] [Revised: 09/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility due to abnormal spermatozoa has been reported in both animals and humans, but its pathogenic causes, including genetic abnormalities, remain largely unknown. On the other hand, contraceptive options for men are limited, and a specific, reversible and safe method of male contraception has been a long-standing quest in medicine. Some progress has recently been made in exploring the effects of spermatid-specifical genetic factors in controlling male fertility. A comprehensive search of PubMed for articles and reviews published in English before July 2016 was carried out using the search terms 'spermiogenesis failure', 'globozoospermia', 'spermatid-specific', 'acrosome', 'infertile', 'manchette', 'sperm connecting piece', 'sperm annulus', 'sperm ADAMs', 'flagellar abnormalities', 'sperm motility loss', 'sperm ion exchanger' and 'contraceptive targets'. Importantly, we have opted to focus on articles regarding spermatid-specific factors. Genetic studies to define the structure and physiology of sperm have shown that spermatozoa appear to be one of the most promising contraceptive targets. Here we summarize how these spermatid-specific factors regulate spermiogenesis and categorize them according to their localization and function from spermatid head to tail (e.g., acrosome, manchette, head-tail conjunction, annulus, principal piece of tail). In addition, we emphatically introduce small-molecule contraceptives, such as BRDT and PPP3CC/PPP3R2, which are currently being developed to target spermatogenic-specific proteins. We suggest that blocking the differentiation of haploid germ cells, which rarely affects early spermatogenic cell types and the testicular microenvironment, is a better choice than spermatogenic-specific proteins. The studies described here provide valuable information regarding the genetic and molecular defects causing male mouse infertility to improve our understanding of the importance of spermatid-specific factors in controlling fertility. Although a male contraceptive 'pill' is still many years away, research into the production of new small-molecule contraceptives targeting spermatid-specific proteins is the right avenue.
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