1
|
Willführ KP, Klüsener S. The current 'dramatically' high paternal ages at childbirth are not unprecedented. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1161-1166. [PMID: 38569672 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
There is strong individual-level evidence that late fatherhood is related to a wide range of health disorders and conditions in offspring. Over the last decades, mean paternal ages at childbirth have risen drastically. This has alarmed researchers from a wide range of fields. However, existing studies have an important shortcoming in that they lack a long-term perspective. This article is a step change in providing such a long-term perspective. We unveil that in many countries the current mean paternal ages at childbirth and proportions of fathers of advanced age at childbirth are not unprecedented. Taking the detected U-shaped trend pattern into account, we discuss individual- and population-level implications of the recent increases in paternal ages at childbirth and highlight important knowledge gaps. At the individual level, some of the biological mechanisms that are responsible for the paternal age-related health risk might, at least to some degree, be counterbalanced by various social factors. Further, how these individual-level effects are linked to population health and human cognitive development might be influenced by various factors, including technical advances and regulations in prenatal diagnostics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai P Willführ
- Institute for Social Sciences, School of Educational and Social Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
- Center for Economic Demography, Department of Economic History, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Sebastian Klüsener
- Ageing, Mortality and Population Dynamics, Federal Institute for Population Research (BiB), Wiesbaden, Germany
- Institute of Sociology and Social Psychology (ISS), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Centre for Demographic Research, Vytautas Magnus University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Feuz MB, Nelson DC, Miller LB, Zwerdling AE, Meyer RG, Meyer-Ficca ML. Reproductive Ageing: Current insights and a potential role of NAD in the reproductive health of aging fathers and their children. Reproduction 2024; 167:e230486. [PMID: 38471307 PMCID: PMC11075800 DOI: 10.1530/rep-23-0486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
In brief In light of the increasing age of first-time fathers, this article summarizes the current scientific knowledge base on reproductive aging in the male, including sperm quality and health impacts for the offspring. The emerging role of NAD decline in reproductive aging is highlighted. Abstract Over the past decades, the age of first-time fathers has been steadily increasing due to socio-economic pressures. While general mechanisms of aging are subject to intensive research, male reproductive aging has remained an understudied area, and the effects of increased age on the male reproductive system are still only poorly understood, despite new insights into the potential dire consequences of advanced paternal age for the health of their progeny. There is also growing evidence that reproductive aging is linked to overall health in men, but this review mainly focuses on pathophysiological consequences of old age in men, such as low sperm count and diminished sperm genetic integrity, with an emphasis on mechanisms underlying reproductive aging. The steady decline of NAD levels observed in aging men represents one of the emerging concepts in that regard. Because it offers some mechanistic rationale explaining the effects of old age on the male reproductive system, some of the NAD-dependent functions in male reproduction are briefly outlined in this review. The overview also provides many questions that remain open about the basic science of male reproductive aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morgan B. Feuz
- Department of Veterinary, Clinical and Life Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
- These authors contributed equally
| | - D. Colton Nelson
- Department of Veterinary, Clinical and Life Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Laura B. Miller
- Department of Veterinary, Clinical and Life Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Alexie E Zwerdling
- Department of Veterinary, Clinical and Life Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Ralph G. Meyer
- Department of Veterinary, Clinical and Life Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
| | - Mirella L. Meyer-Ficca
- Department of Veterinary, Clinical and Life Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kaltsas A, Zikopoulos A, Vrachnis D, Skentou C, Symeonidis EN, Dimitriadis F, Stavros S, Chrisofos M, Sofikitis N, Vrachnis N, Zachariou A. Advanced Paternal Age in Focus: Unraveling Its Influence on Assisted Reproductive Technology Outcomes. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2731. [PMID: 38792276 PMCID: PMC11122544 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
As global demographics shift toward increasing paternal age, the realm of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs), particularly in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), faces new challenges and opportunities. This study provides a comprehensive exploration of the implications of advanced paternal age on ART outcomes. Background research highlights the social, cultural, and economic factors driving men toward later fatherhood, with a focus on the impact of delayed paternity on reproductive outcomes. Methods involve a thorough review of existing literature, centering on changes in testicular function, semen quality, and genetic and epigenetic shifts associated with advancing age. Study results point to intricate associations between the father's age and ART outcomes, with older age being linked to diminished semen quality, potential genetic risks, and varied impacts on embryo quality, implantation rates, and birth outcomes. The conclusions drawn from the current study suggest that while advanced paternal age presents certain risks and challenges, understanding and mitigating these through strategies such as sperm cryopreservation, lifestyle modifications, and preimplantation genetic testing can optimize ART outcomes. Future research directions are identified to further comprehend the epigenetic mechanisms and long-term effects of the older father on offspring health. This study underscores the need for a comprehensive approach in navigating the intricacies of delayed fatherhood within the context of ART, aiming for the best possible outcomes for couples and their children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aris Kaltsas
- Third Department of Urology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (M.C.)
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Athanasios Zikopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro TR1 3LJ, UK;
| | - Dionysios Vrachnis
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | - Chara Skentou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Evangelos N. Symeonidis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.N.S.); (F.D.)
| | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.N.S.); (F.D.)
| | - Sofoklis Stavros
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (S.S.)
| | - Michael Chrisofos
- Third Department of Urology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (M.C.)
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Nikolaos Vrachnis
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (S.S.)
- Vascular Biology, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Athanasios Zachariou
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sfakianoudis K, Zikopoulos A, Grigoriadis S, Seretis N, Maziotis E, Anifandis G, Xystra P, Kostoulas C, Giougli U, Pantos K, Simopoulou M, Georgiou I. The Role of One-Carbon Metabolism and Methyl Donors in Medically Assisted Reproduction: A Narrative Review of the Literature. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4977. [PMID: 38732193 PMCID: PMC11084717 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
One-carbon (1-C) metabolic deficiency impairs homeostasis, driving disease development, including infertility. It is of importance to summarize the current evidence regarding the clinical utility of 1-C metabolism-related biomolecules and methyl donors, namely, folate, betaine, choline, vitamin B12, homocysteine (Hcy), and zinc, as potential biomarkers, dietary supplements, and culture media supplements in the context of medically assisted reproduction (MAR). A narrative review of the literature was conducted in the PubMed/Medline database. Diet, ageing, and the endocrine milieu of individuals affect both 1-C metabolism and fertility status. In vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques, and culture conditions in particular, have a direct impact on 1-C metabolic activity in gametes and embryos. Critical analysis indicated that zinc supplementation in cryopreservation media may be a promising approach to reducing oxidative damage, while female serum homocysteine levels may be employed as a possible biomarker for predicting IVF outcomes. Nonetheless, the level of evidence is low, and future studies are needed to verify these data. One-carbon metabolism-related processes, including redox defense and epigenetic regulation, may be compromised in IVF-derived embryos. The study of 1-C metabolism may lead the way towards improving MAR efficiency and safety and ensuring the lifelong health of MAR infants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (K.P.)
| | - Athanasios Zikopoulos
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Treliske, Truro TR1 3LJ, UK
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Nikolaos Seretis
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece;
| | - Paraskevi Xystra
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Urania Giougli
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (K.P.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fu W, Cui Q, Bu Z, Shi H, Yang Q, Hu L. Elevated sperm DNA fragmentation is correlated with an increased chromosomal aneuploidy rate of miscarried conceptus in women of advanced age undergoing fresh embryo transfer cycle. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1289763. [PMID: 38650716 PMCID: PMC11033384 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1289763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Male sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) may be associated with assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes, but the impact of SDF on the occurrence of aneuploid-related miscarriage remains controversial. Methods Genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism-based chromosomal microarray analysis was performed on 495 miscarried chorionic villus samples undergone IVF/ICSI treatment from the Reproductive Medicine Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University. SDF was assessed using sperm chromatin structure assay. Patients were divided into four groups according to embryo transfer cycle type and maternal age, and the correlation between SDF and chromosome aberration was analyzed. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was utilized to find the optimal threshold. Results Total chromosomal aneuploidy rate was 54.95%, and trisomy was the most common abnormality (71.32%). The chromosomally abnormal group had higher SDF than the normal group (11.42% [6.82%, 16.54%] vs. 12.95% [9.61%, 20.58%], P = 0.032). After grouping, elevated SDF was significantly correlated with an increasing chromosome aneuploidy rate only in women of advanced age who underwent fresh embryo transfer (adjusted odds ratio:1.14 [1.00-1.29], adjusted-P = 0.045). The receiver operating characteristic curve showed that SDF can predict the occurrence of chromosomal abnormality of miscarried conceptus in this group ((area under the curve = 0.76 [0.60-0.91], P = 0.005), and 8.5% was the optimum threshold. When SDF was ≥ 8.5%, the risk of such patients increased by 5.76 times (adjusted odds ratio: 6.76 [1.20-37.99], adjusted-P = 0.030). Conclusion For women of advanced maternal age undergoing fresh embryo transfer, older oocytes fertilized using sperm with high SDF in IVF/ICSI treatment might increase the risk of chromosomal abnormality in miscarried conceptus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wanting Fu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Engineering Laboratory of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Screening, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qiuying Cui
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Engineering Laboratory of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Screening, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhiqin Bu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Engineering Laboratory of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Screening, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hao Shi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Engineering Laboratory of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Screening, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qingling Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Engineering Laboratory of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Screening, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Linli Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Engineering Laboratory of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Screening, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Klutstein M, Gonen N. Epigenetic aging of mammalian gametes. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:785-803. [PMID: 37997675 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The process of aging refers to physiological changes that occur to an organism as time progresses and involves changes to DNA, proteins, metabolism, cells, and organs. Like the rest of the cells in the body, gametes age, and it is well established that there is a decline in reproductive capabilities in females and males with aging. One of the major pathways known to be involved in aging is epigenetic changes. The epigenome is the multitude of chemical modifications performed on DNA and chromatin that affect the ability of chromatin to be transcribed. In this review, we explore the effects of aging on female and male gametes with a focus on the epigenetic changes that occur in gametes throughout aging. Quality decline in oocytes occurs at a relatively early age. Epigenetic changes constitute an important part of oocyte aging. DNA methylation is reduced with age, along with reduced expression of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs). Histone deacetylases (HDAC) expression is also reduced, and a loss of heterochromatin marks occurs with age. As a consequence of heterochromatin loss, retrotransposon expression is elevated, and aged oocytes suffer from DNA damage. In sperm, aging affects sperm number, motility and fecundity, and epigenetic changes may constitute a part of this process. 5 methyl-cytosine (5mC) methylation is elevated in sperm from aged men, but methylation on Long interspersed nuclear elements (LINE) elements is reduced. Di and trimethylation of histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9me2/3) is reduced in sperm from aged men and trimethylation of histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27me3) is elevated. The protamine makeup of sperm from aged men is also changed, with reduced protamine expression and a misbalanced ratio between protamine proteins protamine P1 and protamine P2. The study of epigenetic reproductive aging is recently gaining interest. The current status of the field suggests that many aspects of gamete epigenetic aging are still open for investigation. The clinical applications of these investigations have far-reaching consequences for fertility and sociological human behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Klutstein
- Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research, Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nitzan Gonen
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Institute of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Aitken RJ. Male reproductive ageing: a radical road to ruin. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1861-1871. [PMID: 37568254 PMCID: PMC10546083 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In modern post-transition societies, we are reproducing later and living longer. While the impact of age on female reproductive function has been well studied, much less is known about the intersection of age and male reproduction. Our current understanding is that advancing age brings forth a progressive decline in male fertility accompanied by a reduction in circulating testosterone levels and the appearance of age-dependent reproductive pathologies including benign prostatic hypertrophy and erectile dysfunction. Paternal ageing is also associated with a profound increase in sperm DNA damage, the appearance of multiple epigenetic changes in the germ line and an elevated mutational load in the offspring. The net result of such changes is an increase in the disease burden carried by the progeny of ageing males, including dominant genetic diseases such as Apert syndrome and achondroplasia, as well as neuropsychiatric conditions including autism and spontaneous schizophrenia. The genetic basis of these age-related effects appears to involve two fundamental mechanisms. The first is a positive selection mechanism whereby stem cells containing mutations in a mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway gain a selective advantage over their non-mutant counterparts and exhibit significant clonal expansion with the passage of time. The second is dependent on an age-dependent increase in oxidative stress which impairs the steroidogenic capacity of the Leydig cells, disrupts the ability of Sertoli cells to support the normal differentiation of germ cells, and disrupts the functional and genetic integrity of spermatozoa. Given the central importance of oxidative stress in defining the impact of chronological age on male reproduction, there may be a role for antioxidants in the clinical management of this process. While animal studies are supportive of this strategy, carefully designed clinical trials are now needed if we are to realize the therapeutic potential of this approach in a clinical context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhou Q, Liu A, Ji H, Ji J, Sun J, Ling Z, Li G, Ling X, Xu L, Chen X. Expression profiles of circular RNAs in spermatozoa from aging men. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:8081-8088. [PMID: 37540460 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08705-w] [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: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advanced paternal age (APA) is associated with decreased fertility, but the mechanism underlying APA remains unknown. CircRNAs have been reported to be ideal candidate biomarkers for diagnostic and therapeutic applications in many diseases and are also involved in spermatogenesis. Hence, we aimed to assess the circRNA expression profile of spermatozoa from aging men. METHODS AND RESULTS We recruited 6 subjects, including 3 in the younger group (men age < 40) and 3 in the APA group (men age ≥ 40). RNA sequencing was exploited to identify the expression profiles of circRNAs between the two groups. The expression levels of circRNAs were validated using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes biological pathway analysis and Gene Ontology analysis were performed to evaluate the functions of differentially expressed circRNAs (DE-circRNAs) between the two groups. In total, 18,787 circRNAs were sequenced in the spermatozoa of two groups. Our analysis revealed that there were 1056 downregulated circRNAs and 1228 upregulated circRNAs between the two groups, and KEGG analysis showed they were mainly involved in pathways including the DNA repair signaling pathway, meiotic recombination signaling pathway, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, our study suggested that circRNAs play a vital role in spermatozoa from aging men and provided a fresh perspective on the specific regulatory mechanism of spermatozoa from aging men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Zhou
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210004, China
| | - Anming Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210004, China
| | - Hui Ji
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210004, China
| | - Juan Ji
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210004, China
| | - Jingwen Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210004, China
| | - Zhonghui Ling
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210004, China
| | - Guangyao Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210004, China
| | - Xiufeng Ling
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210004, China
| | - Lu Xu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210004, China.
| | - Xiaoning Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210004, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Chu B, Liu Z, Liu Y, Jiang H. The Role of Advanced Parental Age in Reproductive Genetics. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:2907-2919. [PMID: 37171772 PMCID: PMC10556127 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01256-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The increase of parental reproductive age is a worldwide trend in modern society in recent decades. In general, older parents have a significant impact on reproductive genetics and the health of offspring. In particular, advanced parental age contributes to the increase in the risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring. However, it is currently under debate how and to what extent the health of future generations was affected by the parental age. In this review, we aimed to (i) provide an overview of the effects of age on the fertility and biology of the reproductive organs of the parents, (ii) highlight the candidate biological mechanisms underlying reproductive genetic alterations, and (iii) discuss the relevance of the effect of parental age on offspring between animal experiment and clinical observation. In addition, we think that the impact of environmental factors on cognitive and emotional development of older offspring will be an interesting direction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boling Chu
- Department of Biobank, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, 629000, China
| | - Zhi Liu
- Department of Pathology, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, 629000, China
| | - Yihong Liu
- College of Humanities And Management, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guizhou, 550025, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Biobank, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, 629000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bu X, Ye W, Zhou J. Paternal age, risk of congenital anomalies, and birth outcomes: a population-based cohort study. Eur J Pediatr 2023; 182:3519-3526. [PMID: 37193751 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05025-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to explore the impact of paternal age on the risk of congenital anomalies and birth outcomes in infants born in the USA between 2016 and 2021. This retrospective cohort study used data from the National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) database, a data set containing information on live birth in the USA between 2016 and 2021. Newborns were divided into four groups based on their paternal age (< 25, 25-34, 35-44, and > 44 years) and using the 25-34 age group as a reference. The primary outcomes were congenital anomalies involving structural anomalies and chromosome anomalies. Secondary outcomes were preterm birth, low birth weight, severe neonatal perinatal asphyxia, and admission to neonatal intensive care units (NICU). A multivariable logistic regression model was used to analyze the association between paternal age and outcomes. Overall, 17,764,695 live births were included in the final analyses. After adjusting confounding factors, advanced paternal age > 44 years was associated with increased odds of congenital anomalies (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.17, 95%CI 1.12-1.21) compared with the 25-34 age group, mainly for the chromosomal anomalies (aOR = 1.59, 95%CI 1.40-1.78) but not the structure anomalies (aOR = 1.03, 95%CI 0.97-1.09). The risk of preterm delivery, low birth weight, and NICU hospitalization in their infants was increased by advanced parental age as well. Conclusion: Advanced paternal age increases the risk of congenital anomalies, especially chromosomal anomalies in their offspring, implying prenatal genetic counseling is required. What is Known: • There's a rising trend of advanced paternal age, which is associated with an increased likelihood of premature birth and low birth weight in their offspring. However, the exploration between paternal age and congenital abnormalities in offspring was limited and contradictory. What is New: • Infants with a paternal age > 44 years were more likely to be born with congenital anomalies, especially chromosomal anomalies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinghe Bu
- Department of Neonatology, National Children's Medical Center (Shanghai), Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjing Ye
- Department of Neonatology, National Children's Medical Center (Shanghai), Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianguo Zhou
- Department of Neonatology, National Children's Medical Center (Shanghai), Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Daum H, Harel T, Millo T, Eilat A, Fahham D, Gershon-Naamat S, Basal A, Rosenbluh C, Yanai N, Porat S, Kabiri D, Yagel S, Valsky DV, Elpeleg O, Meiner V, Mor-Shaked H. Exome sequencing for structurally normal fetuses-yields and ethical issues. Eur J Hum Genet 2023; 31:164-168. [PMID: 36071243 PMCID: PMC9905544 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-022-01169-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The yield of chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) is well established in structurally normal fetuses (0.4-1.4%). We aimed to determine the incremental yield of exome sequencing (ES) in this population. From February 2017 to April 2022, 1,526 fetuses were subjected to ES; 482 of them were structurally normal (31.6%). Only pathogenic and likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants, per the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) classification, were reported. Additionally, ACMG secondary findings relevant to childhood were reported. Four fetuses (4/482; 0.8%) had P/LP variants indicating a moderate to severe disease in ATP7B, NR2E3, SPRED1 and FGFR3, causing Wilson disease, Enhanced S-cone syndrome, Legius and Muenke syndromes, respectively. Two fetuses had secondary findings, in RET and DSP. Our data suggest that offering only CMA for structurally normal fetuses may provide false reassurance. Prenatal ES mandates restrictive analysis and careful management combined with pre and post-test genetic counseling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hagit Daum
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel.
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Tamar Harel
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Talya Millo
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Avital Eilat
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Duha Fahham
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | - Adily Basal
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Chaggai Rosenbluh
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nili Yanai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shay Porat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Doron Kabiri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Simcha Yagel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Dan V Valsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Orly Elpeleg
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Vardiella Meiner
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Hagar Mor-Shaked
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel.
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Compared to women, increasing male age is not accompanied by such marked changes in reproductive function but changes certainly do happen. These include alterations to the hypothalamo-pituitary-testicular axis, with resultant implications for testosterone production and bioavailability as well as spermatogenesis. There is a decline in sexual function as men age, with a dramatic increase in the prevalence of erectile dysfunction after the age of 40, which is a marker for both clinically evident as well as covert coronary artery disease. Despite a quantitative decline in spermatogenesis and reduced fecundability, the male potential for fertility persists throughout adult life, however there are also increasingly recognised alterations in sperm quality and function with significant implications for offspring health. These changes are relevant to both natural and medically assisted conception.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Martins da Silva
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, DD1 9SY, Dundee, UK
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, EH16 4TJ, Edinburgh, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dong S, Chen C, Zhang J, Gao Y, Zeng X, Zhang X. Testicular aging, male fertility and beyond. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1012119. [PMID: 36313743 PMCID: PMC9606211 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1012119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Normal spermatogenesis and sperm function are crucial for male fertility. The effects of healthy testicular aging and testicular premature aging on spermatogenesis, sperm function, and the spermatogenesis microenvironment cannot be ignored. Compared with younger men, the testis of older men tends to have disturbed spermatogenic processes, sperm abnormalities, sperm dysfunction, and impaired Sertoli and Leydig cells, which ultimately results in male infertility. Various exogenous and endogenous factors also contribute to pathological testicular premature aging, such as adverse environmental stressors and gene mutations. Mechanistically, Y-chromosomal microdeletions, increase in telomere length and oxidative stress, accumulation of DNA damage with decreased repair ability, alterations in epigenetic modifications, miRNA and lncRNA expression abnormalities, have been associated with impaired male fertility due to aging. In recent years, the key molecules and signaling pathways that regulate testicular aging and premature aging have been identified, thereby providing new strategies for diagnosis and treatment. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the underlying mechanisms of aging on spermatogenesis. Furthermore, potential rescue measures for reproductive aging have been discussed. Finally, the inadequacy of testicular aging research and future directions for research have been envisaged to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of testicular aging and premature aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shijue Dong
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jiali Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Laboratory Animal Center, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xuhui Zeng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaoning Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ashapkin V, Suvorov A, Pilsner JR, Krawetz SA, Sergeyev O. Age-associated epigenetic changes in mammalian sperm: implications for offspring health and development. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 29:24-44. [PMID: 36066418 PMCID: PMC9825272 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Modern reproductive behavior in most developed countries is characterized by delayed parenthood. Older gametes are generally less fertile, accumulating and compounding the effects of varied environmental exposures that are modified by lifestyle factors. Clinicians are primarily concerned with advanced maternal age, while the influence of paternal age on fertility, early development and offspring health remains underappreciated. There is a growing trend to use assisted reproductive technologies for couples of advanced reproductive age. Thus, the number of children born from older gametes is increasing. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We review studies reporting age-associated epigenetic changes in mammals and humans in sperm, including DNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNAs. The interplay between environment, fertility, ART and age-related epigenetic signatures is explored. We focus on the association of sperm epigenetics on epigenetic and phenotype events in embryos and offspring. SEARCH METHODS Peer-reviewed original and review articles over the last two decades were selected using PubMed and the Web of Science for this narrative review. Searches were performed by adopting the two groups of main terms. The first group included 'advanced paternal age', 'paternal age', 'postponed fatherhood', 'late fatherhood', 'old fatherhood' and the second group included 'sperm epigenetics', 'sperm', 'semen', 'epigenetic', 'inheritance', 'DNA methylation', 'chromatin', 'non-coding RNA', 'assisted reproduction', 'epigenetic clock'. OUTCOMES Age is a powerful factor in humans and rodent models associated with increased de novo mutations and a modified sperm epigenome. Age affects all known epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications and profiles of small non-coding (snc)RNA. While DNA methylation is the most investigated, there is a controversy about the direction of age-dependent changes in differentially hypo- or hypermethylated regions with advanced age. Successful development of the human sperm epigenetic clock based on cross-sectional data and four different methods for DNA methylation analysis indicates that at least some CpG exhibit a linear relationship between methylation levels and age. Rodent studies show a significant overlap between genes regulated through age-dependent differentially methylated regions and genes targeted by age-dependent sncRNA. Both age-dependent epigenetic mechanisms target gene networks enriched for embryo developmental, neurodevelopmental, growth and metabolic pathways. Thus, age-dependent changes in the sperm epigenome cannot be described as a stochastic accumulation of random epimutations and may be linked with autism spectrum disorders. Chemical and lifestyle exposures and ART techniques may affect the epigenetic aging of sperm. Although most epigenetic modifications are erased in the early mammalian embryo, there is growing evidence that an altered offspring epigenome and phenotype is linked with advanced paternal age due to the father's sperm accumulating epigenetic changes with time. It has been hypothesized that age-induced changes in the sperm epigenome are profound, physiological and dynamic over years, yet stable over days and months, and likely irreversible. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review raises a concern about delayed fatherhood and age-associated changes in the sperm epigenome that may compromise reproductive health of fathers and transfer altered epigenetic information to subsequent generations. Prospective studies using healthy males that consider confounders are recommended. We suggest a broader discussion focused on regulation of the father's age in natural and ART conceptions is needed. The professional community should be informed and should raise awareness in the population and when counseling older men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - J Richard Pilsner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Stephen A Krawetz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Oleg Sergeyev
- Correspondence address. Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskye Gory, House 1, Building 40, Room 322, Moscow 119992, Russia. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5745-3348
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
The landscape of aging. SCIENCE CHINA LIFE SCIENCES 2022; 65:2354-2454. [PMID: 36066811 PMCID: PMC9446657 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-022-2161-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Aging is characterized by a progressive deterioration of physiological integrity, leading to impaired functional ability and ultimately increased susceptibility to death. It is a major risk factor for chronic human diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, neurological degeneration, and cancer. Therefore, the growing emphasis on “healthy aging” raises a series of important questions in life and social sciences. In recent years, there has been unprecedented progress in aging research, particularly the discovery that the rate of aging is at least partly controlled by evolutionarily conserved genetic pathways and biological processes. In an attempt to bring full-fledged understanding to both the aging process and age-associated diseases, we review the descriptive, conceptual, and interventive aspects of the landscape of aging composed of a number of layers at the cellular, tissue, organ, organ system, and organismal levels.
Collapse
|
16
|
Petrella F, Lusignan MF, Gabriel MS, Pedraza C, Moryousef J, Almajed W, Chan P. Impact of age and fertility status on the consistency of repeat measurements of Sperm DNA Damage: A single-center, prospective, dual visit study. Urology 2022; 169:96-101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2022.07.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
17
|
Chung YH, Hwang IS, Jung G, Ko HS. Advanced parental age is an independent risk factor for term low birth weight and macrosomia. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e29846. [PMID: 35777059 PMCID: PMC9239628 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000029846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
We aimed to investigate association between parental age and the risks of term low birth weight and macrosomia. This was a retrospective cohort study using a national database including 2,245,785 term singleton live births with complete parental age data. Old parental age was defined as 35 years or older. Odd ratios (OR) for term low birth weight and macrosomia were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Neonatal sex, maternal occupation, parity, nationality, age, and paternal age were significant factors of term low birth weight and macrosomia, in univariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, old maternal age (≥35 years old) showed increased odds of term low birth weight and macrosomia (aOR = 1.122, 95% CI: 1.083 -1.162; and aOR = 1.166, 95% CI: 1.143 - 1.189, respectively). Similarly, old paternal age (≥35 years old) showed increased odds of term low birth weight and macrosomia (aOR = 1.090, 95% CI: 1.058 -1.122; and aOR = 1.101, 95% CI: 1.083 - 1.119, respectively). Maternal education that lasted more than 12 years had reduced odds of term low birth weight and macrosomia (OR = 0.817, 95% CI: 0.792 -0.842; and OR = 0.894, 95% CI: 0.879 - 0.91, respectively). Paternal education that lasted more than 12 years also had reduced odds of term low birth weight and macrosomia (OR = 0.865, 95% CI: 0.84 -0.892; and OR = 0.897, 95% CI: 0.881 - 0.913, respectively). This study suggests that not only maternal age but also paternal age are significantly associated with term low birth weight and macrosomia. In addition, parental education levels are also associated with term low birth weight and macrosomia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoo Hyun Chung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Daejeon St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - In Sun Hwang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyul Jung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Sun Ko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Hyun Sun Ko, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222, Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea (e-mail: )
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Biddle JF, Wetherill L, Geddes GC, Quirin K, Rouse CE, Hines KA. OBGYN providers' lack of knowledge and management of genetic risks due to advanced paternal age underscore the need for updated practice guidance. J Community Genet 2022; 13:427-433. [PMID: 35715593 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-022-00595-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this pilot study was to characterize healthcare professionals' knowledge of advanced paternal age (APA), the associated risks, as well as current clinical practices regarding APA. Our study utilized an online survey that questioned providers who see children with genetic conditions and patients who are or may become pregnant regarding demographic information, APA knowledge, APA guideline familiarity, and their clinical practices. A total of 67 providers responded to the survey. We had responses from 54 physician participants in the specialties of medical genetics (GEN), maternal fetal medicine (MFM), and obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN). OBGYN, but not MFM, reported significantly lower agreement that current data supports an association between APA and certain genetic diseases compared to GEN. Furthermore, OBGYN were less likely to identify established risks associated with APA and more likely to incorrectly identify unestablished risks compared to GEN and MFM. Regardless of specialty, the majority of physicians were unfamiliar with the most recently published APA guidelines. This study revealed a desire for more information regarding APA risks and management among our participants. Our data suggest that GEN, MFM, and OBGYN would benefit from updated and more visible guidelines regarding APA. Additionally, OBGYN consistently showed knowledge gaps and misconceptions regarding the risks of APA. Targeted educational or guidance materials regarding APA may also be beneficial for OBGYNs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph F Biddle
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.,Division of Genetics, UBMD Pediatrics, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Leah Wetherill
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| | - Gabrielle C Geddes
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Kayla Quirin
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.,Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Caroline E Rouse
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Karrie A Hines
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Factors influencing mosaicism: A retrospective analysis. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:491-500. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
20
|
Franasiak JM, Polyzos NP, Neves AR, Yovich JL, Ho TM, Vuong LN, Norman RJ. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection for all or for a few? Fertil Steril 2022; 117:270-284. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
|
21
|
Farkouh A, Finelli R, Agarwal A. Beyond conventional sperm parameters: the role of sperm DNA fragmentation in male infertility. Minerva Endocrinol (Torino) 2021; 47:23-37. [PMID: 34881857 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-6507.21.03623-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a condition that widely affects the couples all over the world. In this regard, sperm DNA fragmentation can lead to harmful reproductive consequences, including male infertility and poor outcomes after assisted reproductive techniques. The investigation of SDF in male infertility diagnostics has constantly increased over time, becoming more common in clinical practice with the recent publication of several guidelines regarding its testing. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the pathogenesis and causes of sperm DNA fragmentation, as well as the assays which are more commonly performed for testing. Moreover, we discussed the most recently published evidence regarding the use of SDF testing in clinical practice, highlighting the implications of high sperm DNA fragmentation rate on human reproduction, and the therapeutic approaches for the clinical management of infertile patients. Our review confirms a significant harmful impact of sperm DNA fragmentation on reproduction, and points out several interventions which can be applied in clinics to reduce sperm DNA fragmentation and improve reproductive outcomes. Sperm DNA fragmentation has been shown to adversely impact male fertility potential. As high sperm DNA fragmentation levels have been associated with poor reproductive outcomes, its testing may significantly help clinicians in defining the best therapeutic strategy for infertile patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ala'a Farkouh
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA -
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Matzkin ME, Calandra RS, Rossi SP, Bartke A, Frungieri MB. Hallmarks of Testicular Aging: The Challenge of Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Therapies Using Natural and/or Pharmacological Compounds to Improve the Physiopathological Status of the Aged Male Gonad. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113114. [PMID: 34831334 PMCID: PMC8619877 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolutionary theory of aging supports a trade-off relationship between reproduction and aging. Aging of the male reproductive system primarily affects the testes, leading to a decrease in the levels of sexual hormones, alterations in sperm quality and production, and a decline in fertility that does not necessarily involve a complete cessation of spermatogenesis. Inflammation, oxidation, and apoptosis are events considered as predictors of pathogenesis and the development of age-related diseases that are frequently observed in aged testes. Although the molecular mechanisms are still poorly understood, accumulating evidence points toward pro-inflammatory molecules and reactive oxygen species as primary contributing factors for testicular aging. However, the real impact of aging-related testicular alterations on fertility, reproductive health, and life span is far from being fully revealed. This work discusses the current knowledge on the impact of aging in the testis, particularly of aging-related dysregulated inflammation and oxidative damage on the functioning of its different cell populations. More interestingly, this review covers the potential benefits of anti-aging interventions and therapies using either pharmacological compounds (such as non-selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication) or more natural alternatives (such as various nutraceuticals or even probiotics) that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties. Some of these are currently being investigated or are already in clinical use to delay or prevent testicular aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Eugenia Matzkin
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires C1428ADN, Argentina; (R.S.C.); (S.P.R.); (M.B.F.)
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Cátedra I, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +54-114783-2869 (ext. 1209)
| | - Ricardo Saúl Calandra
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires C1428ADN, Argentina; (R.S.C.); (S.P.R.); (M.B.F.)
| | - Soledad Paola Rossi
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires C1428ADN, Argentina; (R.S.C.); (S.P.R.); (M.B.F.)
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Cátedra I, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Andrzej Bartke
- Geriatrics Research, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Springfield, IL 62794, USA;
| | - Mónica Beatriz Frungieri
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires C1428ADN, Argentina; (R.S.C.); (S.P.R.); (M.B.F.)
- Cátedra de Química, Ciclo Básico Común, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires C1405CAE, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Marrus N, Turner TN, Forsen E, Bolster D, Marvin A, Whitehouse A, Klinger L, Gurnett CA, Constantino JN. Genetic counseling as preventive intervention: toward individual specification of transgenerational autism risk. J Neurodev Disord 2021; 13:39. [PMID: 34530736 PMCID: PMC8447585 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-021-09389-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are among the most heritable of all neuropsychiatric syndromes, most affected children are born to unaffected parents. Recently, we reported an average increase of 3-5% over general population risk of ASD among offspring of adults who have first-degree relatives with ASD in a large epidemiologic family sample. A next essential step is to investigate whether there are measurable characteristics of individual parents placing them at higher or lower recurrence risk, as this information could allow more personalized genetic counseling. METHODS We assembled what is to our knowledge the largest collection of data on the ability of four measurable characteristics of unaffected prospective parents to specify risk for autism among their offspring: (1) sub clinical autistic trait burden, (2) parental history of a sibling with ASD, (3) transmitted autosomal molecular genetic abnormalities, and (4) parental age. Leveraging phenotypic and genetic data in curated family cohorts, we evaluate the respective associations between these factors and child outcome when autism is present in the family in the parental generation. RESULTS All four characteristics were associated with elevation in offspring risk; however, the magnitude of their predictive power-with the exception of isolated rare inherited pathogenic variants -does not yet reach a threshold that would typically be considered actionable for reproductive decision-making. CONCLUSIONS Individual specification of risk to offspring of adults in ASD-affected families is not straightforwardly improved by ascertainment of parental phenotype, and it is not yet clear whether genomic screening of prospective parents in families affected by idiopathic ASD is warranted as a clinical standard. Systematic screening of affected family members for heritable pathogenic variants, including rare sex-linked mutations, will identify a subset of families with substantially elevated transmission risk. Polygenic risk scores are only weakly predictive at this time but steadily improving and ultimately may enable more robust prediction either singly or when combined with the risk variables examined in this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Marrus
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave; Box 8504, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
| | - Tychele N Turner
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave; Box 8108, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Elizabeth Forsen
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave; Box 8504, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Drew Bolster
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave; Box 8504, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Alison Marvin
- Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities, Kennedy Krieger Institute, PACT Building/Office 121B; 7000 Tudsbury Road, Baltimore, MD, 21244, USA
| | - Andrew Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth Children's Hospital, 15 Hospital Avenue, Nedlands, WA, 6009, USA
| | - Laura Klinger
- TEACCH Autism Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Campus Box #7180, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7180, USA
| | - Christina A Gurnett
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave; Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - J N Constantino
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave; Box 8504, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Pennings G, Couture V, Ombelet W. Social sperm freezing. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:833-839. [PMID: 33501976 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased paternal age has been associated with lower fertility and higher genetic risk for the offspring. One way to prevent these consequences is to freeze sperm at a young age. Social sperm freezing could be developed in a way similar to social oocyte freezing. The main difference between freezing oocytes and sperm is that social sperm freezing is much less focussed on fertility preservation and much more on avoiding increased genetic risk. Contrary to what some people seem to believe, sperm freezing is more complicated than it looks at first sight. This article considers three practical aspects: freezing, storage and testing. It is concluded that the remedy (cryopreservation) may itself cause damage to the quality of the spermatozoon and to its genetic integrity, thus undoing the possible benefits in terms of fertility and health of offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guido Pennings
- Department of Philosophy and Moral Science, Bioethics Institute Ghent (BIG), Ghent University, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Vincent Couture
- Faculty of Nursing, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.,Research Center of the CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC G1L 3L5, Canada
| | - Willem Ombelet
- Genk Institute for Fertility Technology, ZOL Hospitals, Genk B-3600, Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt B-3500, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Aitken RJ, Bakos HW. Should we be measuring DNA damage in human spermatozoa? New light on an old question. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1175-1185. [PMID: 33532854 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Assessments of sperm DNA damage are controversial because of perceived uncertainties over the relationship with pregnancy and the limited range of therapies available should positive results be returned. In this article, we highlight recent data supporting a chain of associations between oxidative stress in the male germ line, DNA damage in spermatozoa, defective DNA repair in the oocyte, the mutational load carried by the resulting embryo and the long-term health trajectory of the offspring. Any condition capable of generating oxidative damage in spermatozoa (age, obesity, smoking, prolonged abstinence, varicocele, chemical exposures, radiation etc.) is capable of influencing offspring health in this manner, creating a range of pathologies in the progeny including neuropsychiatric disorders and cancer. If sperm DNA damage is detected, there are several therapeutic interventions that can be introduced to improve DNA quality prior to the use of these cells in ART. We therefore argue that infertility specialists should be engaged in the diagnosis and remediation of sperm DNA damage as a matter of best practice, in order to minimize the risk of adverse health outcomes in children conceived using ART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Hassan W Bakos
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Monash IVF Group Limited, Level 2, 1 Fennell Street, Parramatta, NSW 2151 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Cafe SL, Nixon B, Ecroyd H, Martin JH, Skerrett-Byrne DA, Bromfield EG. Proteostasis in the Male and Female Germline: A New Outlook on the Maintenance of Reproductive Health. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:660626. [PMID: 33937261 PMCID: PMC8085359 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.660626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
For fully differentiated, long lived cells the maintenance of protein homeostasis (proteostasis) becomes a crucial determinant of cellular function and viability. Neurons are the most well-known example of this phenomenon where the majority of these cells must survive the entire course of life. However, male and female germ cells are also uniquely dependent on the maintenance of proteostasis to achieve successful fertilization. Oocytes, also long-lived cells, are subjected to prolonged periods of arrest and are largely reliant on the translation of stored mRNAs, accumulated during the growth period, to support meiotic maturation and subsequent embryogenesis. Conversely, sperm cells, while relatively ephemeral, are completely reliant on proteostasis due to the absence of both transcription and translation. Despite these remarkable, cell-specific features there has been little focus on understanding protein homeostasis in reproductive cells and how/whether proteostasis is "reset" during embryogenesis. Here, we seek to capture the momentum of this growing field by highlighting novel findings regarding germline proteostasis and how this knowledge can be used to promote reproductive health. In this review we capture proteostasis in the context of both somatic cell and germline aging and discuss the influence of oxidative stress on protein function. In particular, we highlight the contributions of proteostasis changes to oocyte aging and encourage a focus in this area that may complement the extensive analyses of DNA damage and aneuploidy that have long occupied the oocyte aging field. Moreover, we discuss the influence of common non-enzymatic protein modifications on the stability of proteins in the male germline, how these changes affect sperm function, and how they may be prevented to preserve fertility. Through this review we aim to bring to light a new trajectory for our field and highlight the potential to harness the germ cell's natural proteostasis mechanisms to improve reproductive health. This manuscript will be of interest to those in the fields of proteostasis, aging, male and female gamete reproductive biology, embryogenesis, and life course health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shenae L. Cafe
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Heath Ecroyd
- Molecular Horizons, School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacinta H. Martin
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David A. Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G. Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Meyer RG, Meyer-Ficca ML. Metabolism in Male Reproductive Aging. ADVANCES IN GERIATRIC MEDICINE AND RESEARCH 2021; 3:e210005. [PMID: 33554222 PMCID: PMC7861562 DOI: 10.20900/agmr20210005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Similar to female reproductive health, male reproductive health declines with increasing age, albeit in a more gradual way. In the US, the average age of first-time fathers has been steadily increasing since 1980. This is concerning because increasing paternal age is positively correlated with reduced sperm chromatin quality and higher numbers of DNA strand breaks (DNA sb), which negatively affects pregnancy outcome and child development. While underlying reasons are not well understood, one of the well-known hallmarks of aging is a significant decline of body nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) levels. We propose that low body-wide NAD levels provide a plausible explanation for metabolic alterations that are associated with declining hormonal production and testicular volume, as well as reduced sperm quality in aging men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ralph G. Meyer
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84332, USA
- Utah Experimental Station, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84332, USA
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84332, USA
| | - Mirella L. Meyer-Ficca
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84332, USA
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84332, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Dahan MH, Mills G, Khoudja R, Gagnon A, Tan G, Tan SL. Three hour abstinence as a treatment for high sperm DNA fragmentation: a prospective cohort study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:227-233. [PMID: 33179134 PMCID: PMC7822978 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01999-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study sought to compare sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) in semen specimens after 3 days and then after 3 h of abstinence in men presenting for initial infertility evaluation. METHODS A prospective cohort study of 112 men undergoing their first semen analysis as part of an infertility work-up was conducted. All participants presented with 3 days of abstinence for a semen analysis and DNA-fragmentation test. Both tests were repeated on a second sample collected 3 h after the first ejaculation. DNA-fragmentation was evaluated with the halo test by one of two technicians blinded to duration of abstinence. Variables analyzed include ejaculate volume, sperm concentration and motility, smoking status, cannabis use, initial specimen DNA fragmentation, and use of sperm-directed anti-oxidant formulations. RESULTS Among all subjects, DNA fragmentation improved in the 3-h abstinence specimen (34.6 ± 19.4% vs. 23.7 ± 16.0%, p = 0.0001). Among subjects with high DNA fragmentation (> 35%) on the initial specimen, 55% improved into the normal range. Semen volume and sperm concentration decreased (3.1 ± 3.3 ml vs. 1.9 ± 0.8 ml, p < 0.01 and 41 ± 39 vs. 32 ± 31 (millions/ml), p = 0.01), while progressive motility tended to increase. Fifty-eight subjects demonstrated ≥ 30% improvement in SDF in the second specimen as compared to the first. Factors found to correlate with > 30% improvement in DNA fragmentation in the 3-h abstinence specimen compared to 3 days were younger age and use of anti-oxidants. CONCLUSION High SDF can often be managed with a second ejaculation 3 h after the first in infertile couples, including in males with abnormal semen analyses per the 2010 WHO guide. Apart from SDF levels, changes in sperm quality were not clinically significant in the second specimen and did not increase rates of ICSI. However, a second ejaculation after 3 h probably may reduce the necessity of costly and/or invasive ART strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael H Dahan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MUHC Reproductive Center, McGill University, 888, Blvd. de Maisonneuve East, Suite 200, Montreal, QC, H2L 4S8, Canada.
- OriginElle fertility Clinic, 2110 Boul. Decarie, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | | | - Rabea Khoudja
- OriginElle fertility Clinic, 2110 Boul. Decarie, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Abbie Gagnon
- OriginElle fertility Clinic, 2110 Boul. Decarie, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Grace Tan
- OriginElle fertility Clinic, 2110 Boul. Decarie, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Seang Lin Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- OriginElle fertility Clinic, 2110 Boul. Decarie, Montreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Fang Y, Wang Y, Peng M, Xu J, Fan Z, Liu C, Zhao K, Zhang H. Effect of paternal age on offspring birth defects: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:25373-25394. [PMID: 33229621 PMCID: PMC7803514 DOI: 10.18632/aging.104141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This systematic review and meta-analysis was aimed at determining whether paternal age is a risk factor for offspring birth defects. RESULTS A total of 38 and 11 studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, respectively. Compared with reference, fathers aged 25 to 29, young fathers (< 20 years) could increase the risk of urogenital abnormalities (OR: 1.50, 95 % CI: 1.03-2.19) and chromosome disorders (OR: 1.38, 95 % CI: 1.12-1.52) in their offsprings; old fathers (≥ 40 years) could increase the risk of cardiovascular abnormalities (OR: 1.10, 95 % CI: 1.01-1.20), facial deformities (OR: 1.08, 95 % CI: 1.00-1.17), urogenital abnormalities (OR: 1.28, 95 % CI: 1.07-1.52), and chromosome disorders (OR: 1.30, 95 % CI: 1.12-1.52). CONCLUSIONS Our study indicated that paternal age is associated with a moderate increase in the incidence of urogenital and cardiovascular abnormalities, facial deformities, and chromosome disorders. METHODS PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and Embase were searched for relevant literatures from 1960 to February 2020. The systematic review follows PRISMA guidelines. Relevant meta-analyses were performed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiwei Fang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yongfeng Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Meilin Peng
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jia Xu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zunpan Fan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Esteves SC, Zini A, Coward RM, Evenson DP, Gosálvez J, Lewis SEM, Sharma R, Humaidan P. Sperm DNA fragmentation testing: Summary evidence and clinical practice recommendations. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13874. [PMID: 33108829 PMCID: PMC7988559 DOI: 10.1111/and.13874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We herein summarise the evidence concerning the impact of sperm DNA fragmentation in various clinical infertility scenarios and the advances on sperm DNA fragmentation tests. The collected evidence was used to formulate 41 recommendations. Of these, 13 recommendations concern technical aspects of sperm DNA fragmentation testing, including pre‐analytical information, clinical thresholds and interpretation of results. The remaining 28 recommendations relate to indications for sperm DNA fragmentation testing and clinical management. Clinical scenarios like varicocele, unexplained infertility, idiopathic infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, intrauterine insemination, in vitro fertilisation/intracytoplasmic sperm injection, fertility counselling for men with infertility risk factors and sperm cryopreservation have been contemplated. The bulk evidence supporting the recommendations has increased in recent years, but it is still of moderate to low quality. This guideline provides clinicians with advice on best practices in sperm DNA fragmentation testing. Also, recommendations are provided on possible management strategies to overcome infertility related to sperm DNA fragmentation, based on the best available evidence. Lastly, we identified gaps in knowledge and opportunities for research and elaborated a list of recommendations to stimulate further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, SP, Brazil.,Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil.,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Armand Zini
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, St. Mary's Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Robert Matthew Coward
- Department of Urology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,UNC Fertility, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Donald P Evenson
- SCSA Diagnostics, Brookings, SD, USA.,Sanford Medical School, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Jaime Gosálvez
- Unit of Genetics, Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sheena E M Lewis
- Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK.,Examenlab Ltd., Belfast, UK
| | - Rakesh Sharma
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Fertility Clinic Skive, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Coll L, Parriego M, Mateo S, García-Monclús S, Rodríguez I, Boada M, Coroleu B, Polyzos NP, Vidal F, Veiga A. Prevalence, types and possible factors influencing mosaicism in IVF blastocysts: results from a single setting. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 42:55-65. [PMID: 33153932 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Are intrinsic or extrinsic factors associated with embryo mosaicism prevalence in IVF cycles? DESIGN Retrospective cohort study of preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) cycles carried out at a university-affiliated IVF clinic between October 2017 and October 2019. Trophectoderm biopsies were analysed by next generation sequencing. Mosaicism prevalence, type of anomaly and the chromosomes involved were analysed. Intrinsic and extrinsic factors potentially inducing mosaicism were studied: maternal and paternal age, antral follicle count, cumulus-oocyte complexes retrieved, female body mass index, PGT-A indication, sperm concentration, total dosage of gonadotrophins, embryo quality and day of blastocyst formation, single-step commercial media used and biopsy operator. RESULTS Overall prevalence of mosaicism in our PGT-A setting was 13.9%. In segmental mosaicism, larger chromosomes tended to be more affected, which was not observed in whole-chromosome mosaicism. Additionally, segmental mosaicism was mostly observed in monosomy (69.6%; P < 0.01) compared with whole-chromosome mosaicism (49.7% monosomies versus 50.3% trisomies; P = 0.83). Although a high inter-patient variability was observed, only paternal age showed a positive association with mosaicism (adjusted OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.54) among the analysed variables. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest remarkable differences in the mechanisms generating segmental and whole-chromosome mosaicism, indicating that they may deserve different consideration when studying them and when prioritizing them for transfer. Male factor seems to be associated with mosaicism and may be worthy of specific assessment in future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lluc Coll
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Gran Via Carles III, 71-75, Barcelona 08028, Spain.
| | - Mònica Parriego
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Gran Via Carles III, 71-75, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Sílvia Mateo
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Gran Via Carles III, 71-75, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Sílvia García-Monclús
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Gran Via Carles III, 71-75, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Ignacio Rodríguez
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Gran Via Carles III, 71-75, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Montserrat Boada
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Gran Via Carles III, 71-75, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Buenaventura Coroleu
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Gran Via Carles III, 71-75, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Nikolaos P Polyzos
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Gran Via Carles III, 71-75, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Francesca Vidal
- Unitat de Biologia Cellular, Facultat de Biociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra 08193, Spain
| | - Anna Veiga
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Gran Via Carles III, 71-75, Barcelona 08028, Spain; Barcelona Stem Cell Bank, IDIBELL Programme for Regenerative Medicine, 08908 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Quirin K, Hines KA, Wetherill L. Genetic counseling for advanced paternal age: A survey of genetic counselors' current practice. J Genet Couns 2020; 30:428-438. [PMID: 32969081 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Advanced paternal age (APA) has no formal definition, though many publications utilize the cutoff of fathers >40 years of age. The literature demonstrates an association between APA and certain conditions including de novo autosomal dominant disorders, birth defects, and neuropsychiatric conditions. This study surveyed 165 genetic counselors within the National Society of Genetic Counselors to assess their current approach to APA. t Tests, analysis of variance, logistic regression, and chi-squared tests were performed on quantitative data, and content analysis was applied to qualitative data. Although most respondents have discussed APA with a patient (88%), there was no consensus on what age cutoff constitutes APA: >40 (N = 53, 37.9%), >45 (N = 61, 43.6%), >50 (N = 24, 17.1%), or >55 (N = 2, 1.4%). Those who discussed APA were more likely to be prenatal counselors, see more patients per week, be board certified, or be familiar with current APA guidelines. Respondents agreed the literature supports the association of APA with deleterious outcomes (mean agreement = 8.2, median = 8 on a 1 = strongly disagree to 10 = strongly agree). Individuals who discussed APA and were board certified had higher agreement. Content analysis confirmed agreement that the literature supports an association between APA and deleterious outcomes (documented in responses from 31.5% of prenatal respondents, 17.8% others) but noted that available testing and screening options for associated conditions are limited (34.4% of prenatal respondents, 17.4% others). Prenatal and non-prenatal respondents reported similar agreement with the statement that APA is associated with deleterious outcomes. However, most non-prenatal respondents were unfamiliar with current guidelines (80%), and presumably as a result, were also less likely to discuss APA with their patients. Our study identified a need to disseminate information regarding APA and current guidelines to genetic counselors, particularly non-prenatal and those with less experience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kayla Quirin
- Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Washington University School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Karrie A Hines
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Leah Wetherill
- Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Gamete preservation: knowledge, concerns and intentions of Israeli and Danish students regarding egg and sperm freezing. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:957-965. [PMID: 32919878 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What do Danish and Israeli students of both sexes know about age in relation to fertility and gamete preservation, and what are their concerns and intentions for the future in this regard? DESIGN A cross-sectional comparative study of male and female Danish and Israeli students was conducted between November 2018 and April 2019. A total of 1010 students, 508 from Denmark and 502 from Israel, completed questionnaires assessing knowledge, perceptions and intentions regarding gamete preservation. RESULTS More than 70% of both genders in Israel thought that women start experiencing fertility decline at age 35 and up. A total of 60% of Danish women and 51% of Danish men chose 29-34 as the time where fertility decline starts. Some 95% of Danish students chose 20-29 as the best age for egg freezing, while the corresponding number in Israel was 85%, regardless of gender. In total, 51% of Israeli women said they are extremely or very worried about future infertility, compared with 31% of Danish women, 26% of Israeli men and 12% of Danish men. Regarding preservation intentions, no gender differences were found. Some 3% of Israeli students said they would consider gamete preservation, as compared with 14% of Danish students. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest a widespread worry among Danish and Israeli women about their future fertility. Danish students report more awareness of age-related fertility decline. Unique to this study is the inclusion of male students. The preliminary findings reveal that men are less worried about their reproductive future.
Collapse
|
34
|
Oxidative Stress and Reproductive Function in the Aging Male. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9090282. [PMID: 32932761 PMCID: PMC7564187 DOI: 10.3390/biology9090282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
With the delay of parenthood becoming more common, the age at which men father children is on the rise. While the effects of advanced maternal age have been well documented, only recently have studies started to focus on the impact of advanced paternal age (APA) in the context of male reproduction. As men age, the antioxidant defense system gradually becomes less efficient and elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulate in spermatozoa; this can impair their functional and structural integrity. In this review, we present an overview of how oxidative stress is implicated in male reproductive aging by providing a summary of the sources and roles of ROS, the theories of aging, and the current animal and human studies that demonstrate the impacts of APA on the male germ line, the health of progeny and fertility, and how treatment with antioxidants may reverse these effects.
Collapse
|
35
|
Hogg K, Rizio T, Manocha R, McLachlan RI, Hammarberg K. Men's preconception health care in Australian general practice: GPs' knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. Aust J Prim Health 2020; 25:353-358. [PMID: 31554536 DOI: 10.1071/py19069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Potentially modifiable factors can affect male fertility and reproductive outcomes, including smoking, obesity, and older paternal age. This study surveyed GPs' knowledge about, attitudes towards, and needs for promoting fertility and preconception health to male patients. The survey, conducted February to June 2018 and completed by 304 GPs, included questions relating to men's preconception health, the potential barriers and enablers to discussing preconception health with male patients, and the types of resources that would enable GPs to discuss parenthood intentions with men of reproductive age. Most GPs (90%) did not feel confident in their knowledge about modifiable factors that affect male fertility. Two-thirds agreed that it was their role to discuss these factors with male patients, but nearly 80% practised this only occasionally. Lack of knowledge, the sensitivity of the subject and fertility being perceived as a female issue, were identified as barriers to discussing fertility and preconception health with male patients. To facilitate discussions, GPs wanted trustworthy websites and factsheets to refer patients to. Men do not typically receive fertility or preconception health advice in general practice. A national framework for preconception health care that includes men, GP education and training, and reproductive health resources for men is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Hogg
- Healthy Male (Andrology Australia), Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Vic. 3004, Australia; and Corresponding author.
| | - Taletha Rizio
- Healthy Male (Andrology Australia), Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Vic. 3004, Australia
| | | | - Robert I McLachlan
- Healthy Male (Andrology Australia), Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Vic. 3004, Australia; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Vic. 3168, Australia; and Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia; and Monash IVF Group, 21-31 Goodwood Street, Richmond, Vic. 3121, Australia
| | - Karin Hammarberg
- Global and Women's Health, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Vic. 3004, Australia; and Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority, 30/570 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Vic. 3000, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Silva AMS, Socorro S, Hurtado de Llera A, Vaz CV, Correia S, Maia CJ. Overexpression of regucalcin mitigates the ageing-related changes in oxidative stress and sperm quality. Theriogenology 2020; 157:472-482. [PMID: 32898822 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Age-related changes, namely the increase in oxidative stress (OS) with the consequent sperm damage, result in decreased male fertility. Regucalcin (RGN) is a Ca2+-binding protein that has been shown to have beneficial effects on spermatogenesis by suppressing OS and chemical/radiation-induced damage. This work aims to evaluate whether RGN overexpression reduces the ageing-associated decline of male reproductive function. Sperm and testicular function analysis were performed in young-adult and senescent transgenic rats overexpressing RGN (Tg-RGN) comparatively with their wild-type (Wt) littermates. The gonadosomatic index (GI), tubular differentiation index and the expression levels of RGN and other proliferation regulators were evaluated. Moreover, the sperm parameters, OS analysis and immunolocalization of RGN were assessed, as well as morphometric evaluation of epididymal tubules. Both GI and sperm counts were reduced in the senescent Wt rats, but maintained in the Tg-RGN. Also, the levels of stem cell factor (SCF), c-Kit, and Akt were maintained in the testis of aged Tg-RGN rats, suggesting that the normal spermatogenic output was preserved over time in these animals, an effect not observed in Wt. Senescent Tg-RGN rats also presented lower sperm lipid peroxidation and total oxidant status relative to the Wt. Furthermore, aged Tg-RGN rats displayed higher sperm viability, higher frequency of sperm with normal morphology, and reduced incidence of head and neck/midpiece defects when compared with Wt, which may be a consequence of the lower OS levels found in the sperm of these animals. Interestingly, RGN expression increased with ageing in sperm, being mainly localized in the acrosome. Altogether, these findings indicate that the modulation of RGN levels may alleviate the age-related decline in sperm quality and testicular function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana M S Silva
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Sílvia Socorro
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Ana Hurtado de Llera
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal; Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Centro de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnologicas de Extremadura (CICYTEX), Ctra. A-V Km, 372 06187, Guadajira, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Cátia V Vaz
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Sara Correia
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Cláudio J Maia
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Albani E, Castellano S, Gurrieri B, Arruzzolo L, Negri L, Borroni EM, Levi-Setti PE. Male age: negative impact on sperm DNA fragmentation. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 11:2749-2761. [PMID: 31085803 PMCID: PMC6535069 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The main goal of semen processing in Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART) is to select sperm with good viability and, at the same time, remove Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) sources (such as leukocytes) and reduce the percentage of morphologically abnormal sperm for fertility treatment. We performed a comparative analysis on sperm DNA fragmentation after Density Gradient Centrifugation (DGC) using products sold by two competing companies. Our results showed comparable DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) after treatment with both DGC products. However, in both cases, a comparable number of samples do not benefit from the treatment. Interestingly, increasing evidences indicated that male age has a negative impact on sperm DNA fragmentation, but the mechanisms underlying age-dependent patterns of sperm decline have not yet been fully understood. Thus, we performed a comparative analysis of DFI before and after treatment with DGC products in age-stratified sample populations. Our results showed a worsening of the baseline DFI in the eldest group and the benefits of DGC on sperm DNA were compromised. In conclusion, our work consolidates the current evidences suggesting that both paternal and maternal aging, critically affects reproductive success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Albani
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Humanitas Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | - Stefano Castellano
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Humanitas Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | - Bruna Gurrieri
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Humanitas Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | - Luisa Arruzzolo
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Humanitas Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | - Luciano Negri
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Humanitas Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | - Elena M Borroni
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano (Milan), Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20090 Segrate (Milan), Italy
| | - Paolo E Levi-Setti
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Humanitas Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Guo L, Zhou H, Liu M, Li Q, Sun X. Male age is more critical to sperm DNA integrity than routine semen parameters in Chinese infertile males. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13449. [PMID: 31657059 DOI: 10.1111/and.13449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Li‐Yuan Guo
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University Guangzhou China
| | - Hua Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University Guangzhou China
| | - Min Liu
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University Guangzhou China
| | - Qing Li
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University Guangzhou China
| | - Xiao‐Fang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University Guangzhou China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Taylor J, Baumgartner A, Schmid T, Brinkworth M. Responses to genotoxicity in mouse testicular germ cells and epididymal spermatozoa are affected by increased age. Toxicol Lett 2019; 310:1-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2019.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
|
40
|
Bichara C, Berby B, Rives A, Jumeau F, Letailleur M, Setif V, Sibert L, Rondanino C, Rives N. Sperm chromatin condensation defects, but neither DNA fragmentation nor aneuploidy, are an independent predictor of clinical pregnancy after intracytoplasmic sperm injection. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1387-1399. [PMID: 31289980 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01471-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The impact of sperm DNA damage on intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes remains controversial. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the prognostic value of several types of sperm nuclear damage on ICSI clinical pregnancy. METHODS Our retrospective study included a total of 132 couples who consulted for male or mixed-factor infertility that benefited from ICSI cycles from January 2006 to December 2015. All infertile males presented at least one conventional semen parameter alteration. Sperm nuclear damage was assessed using the Motile Sperm Organelle Morphological Examination for sperm head relative vacuolar area (RVA), aniline blue staining for chromatin condensation, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling for DNA fragmentation, and fluorescence in situ hybridization for aneuploidy. RESULTS Infertile males who achieved pregnancy after ICSI had fewer chromatin condensation defects than did males who did not achieve any pregnancy (15.8 ± 12.0% vs. 11.4 ± 7.9%, respectively, P = 0.0242), which remained significant in multivariate regression analysis (RR = 0.40 [0.18 to 0.86], P = 0.02). RVA, DNA fragmentation, and aneuploidy were not predictive factors of ICSI outcomes. The pregnancy rate was significantly decreased by number of progressive motile spermatozoa with normal morphology after migration (P = 0.04). In female partners, 17β estradiol of less than 2000 pg/mL on the day of ovulation induction significantly reduced the occurrence of clinical pregnancy (P = 0.04). CONCLUSION Sperm chromatin condensation defects were more frequently observed in couples with ICSI failure and should be considered a negative predictive factor for the occurrence of clinical pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Bichara
- Biology of Reproduction, CECOS Laboratory, Normandie Univ., UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - B Berby
- Biology of Reproduction, CECOS Laboratory, Normandie Univ., UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - A Rives
- Biology of Reproduction, CECOS Laboratory, Normandie Univ., UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - F Jumeau
- Biology of Reproduction, CECOS Laboratory, Normandie Univ., UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - M Letailleur
- ART Center, Normandie Univ., UNIROUEN, Rouen University Hospital, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - V Setif
- Biology of Reproduction, CECOS Laboratory, Normandie Univ., UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - L Sibert
- Department of Urology-Andrology, Normandie Univ., UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - C Rondanino
- Biology of Reproduction, CECOS Laboratory, Normandie Univ., UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Nathalie Rives
- Biology of Reproduction, CECOS Laboratory, Normandie Univ., UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, F 76000, Rouen, France.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Utility and Predictive Value of Human Standard Semen Parameters and Sperm DNA Dispersion for Fertility Potential. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16112004. [PMID: 31195656 PMCID: PMC6603873 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16112004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Because the assessment of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) plays a key role in male fertility, our study was designed to find the relationships between SDF and standard semen parameters. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that 18% SDF is a prognostic parameter for discriminating between men with normal and abnormal standard semen parameters (n = 667). Men with > 18% SDF had significantly lower quality semen, a higher prevalence of abnormal semen characteristics, and a higher odds ratio for abnormal semen parameters compared to men with ≤ 18% SDF. An ROC analysis provided predictive values for age and semen parameters to distinguish between men with SDF > 18% and men with ≤ 18% SDF. SDF was positively correlated with male age and teratozoospermia index but negatively with sperm concentration, total number of spermatozoa, sperm morphology, progressive motility, and vitality. Our study shows that 18% SDF has a predictive value for distinguishing between men with normal and abnormal semen characteristics. Men with >18% SDF have a higher risk for abnormal semen parameters, while age and obtained semen parameters have a predictive value for SDF. There is a relationship between SDF and conventional sperm characteristics, and thus, SDF can be incorporated into male fertility assessment.
Collapse
|
42
|
Sperm DNA Fragmentation: Mechanisms of Origin. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1166:75-85. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21664-1_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
|
43
|
Xavier MJ, Mitchell LA, McEwan KE, Scott RJ, Aitken RJ. Genomic integrity in the male germ line: evidence in support of the disposable soma hypothesis. Reproduction 2018; 156:269-282. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The Big Blue λSelect-cII selection system has been employed along with whole-exome sequencing to examine the susceptibility of the male germ line to mutation in two challenging situations (i) exposure to a chemotherapeutic regime including bleomycin, etoposide and cis-platinum (BEP) and (ii) the ageing process. A 3-week exposure to BEP induced complete azoospermia associated with a loss of developing germ cells and extensive vacuolization of Sertoli cell cytoplasm. Following cessation of treatment, spermatozoa first appeared in the caput epididymis after 6 weeks and by 12 weeks motile spermatozoa could be recovered from the cauda, although the count (P < 0.001) and motility (P < 0.01) of these cells were significantly reduced and superoxide generation was significantly elevated (P < 0.001). Despite this increase in free radical generation, no evidence of chromatin instability was detected in these spermatozoa. Furthermore, embryos obtained from females mated at this 12-week time point showed no evidence of an increased mutational load. Similarly, progressive ageing of Big Blue mice had no impact on the quality of the spermatozoa, fertility or mutation frequency in the offspring despite a significant increase in the mutational load carried by somatic tissues such as the liver (P < 0.05). We conclude that the male germ line is highly resistant to mutation in keeping with the disposable soma hypothesis, which posits that genetic integrity in the germ cells will be maintained at the expense of the soma, in light of the former’s sentinel position in safeguarding the stability of the genome.
Collapse
|
44
|
Bertoncelli Tanaka M, Agarwal A, Esteves SC. Paternal age and assisted reproductive technology: problem solver or trouble maker? Panminerva Med 2018; 61:138-151. [PMID: 30021419 DOI: 10.23736/s0031-0808.18.03512-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In our society, the number of couples with advanced reproductive age seeking fertility treatment is increasing steadily. While the negative effect of female age on assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes is well established, the impact of paternal age needs to be clarified. We reviewed the current literature to determine whether advanced paternal age affects the results of ART and the health of resulting offspring. We found that the published literature is overall supportive of a positive association between advanced paternal age (>40 years) and semen quality deterioration. However, the existing evidence does not corroborate nor discard the influence of advanced paternal age on ART outcomes. Similarly, the effect of paternal age on the health of ART offspring remains equivocal, although data from naturally-conceived children clearly indicates that advanced paternal age increases the frequency of genetic, neurodevelopmental, and psychiatric diseases in the progeny. Noteworthy, the current literature is limited and subjected to bias due to the impact of maternal age as a critical confounder. Health care providers should discuss with concerned couples the available options to counteract the possible negative influence of advanced paternal age on ART outcomes and health of resulting offspring. These include identification and treatment of underlying conditions with potential negative long-term effects on fertility, sperm freezing at a young age, and use of antioxidant supplements for men at risk of excessive oxidative stress. Aged male partner from couples undergoing ART, in particular men of 50 years and older, should consider use of preimplantation genetic testing as a means to detect embryo abnormalities and select euploid embryos for transfer to the uterine cavity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil - .,Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic ANDROFERT, Campinas, Brazil.,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|