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Warren BD, Ahn SH, Brittain KS, Nanjappa MK, Wang H, Wang J, Blanco G, Sanchez G, Fan Y, Petroff BK, Cooke PS, Petroff MG. Multiple Lesions Contribute to Infertility in Males Lacking Autoimmune Regulator. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2021; 191:1592-1609. [PMID: 34126085 PMCID: PMC8420865 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2021.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Male factors, including those of autoimmune origin, contribute to approximately 50% of infertility cases in humans. However, the mechanisms underlying autoimmune male infertility are poorly understood. Deficiency in autoimmune regulator (AIRE) impairs central immune tolerance because of diminished expression of self-antigens in the thymus. Humans with AIRE mutations and mice with engineered ablation of Aire develop multiorgan autoimmunity and infertility. To determine the immune targets contributing to infertility in male Aire-deficient (-/-) mice, Aire-/- or wild-type (WT) males were paired with WT females. Aire-/- males exhibited dramatically reduced mating frequency and fertility, hypogonadism, and reduced serum testosterone. Approximately 15% of mice exhibited lymphocytic infiltration into the testis, accompanied by atrophy, azoospermia, and reduced numbers of mitotically active germ cells; the remaining mice showed normal testicular morphology, sperm counts, and motility. However, spermatozoa from all Aire-/- mice were defective in their ability to fertilize WT oocytes in vitro. Lymphocytic infiltration into the epididymis, seminal vesicle, and prostate gland was evident. Aire-/- male mice generated autoreactive antibodies in an age-dependent manner against sperm, testis, epididymis, prostate gland, and seminal vesicle. Finally, expression of Aire was evident in the seminiferous epithelium in an age-dependent manner, as well as in the prostate gland. These findings suggest that Aire-dependent central tolerance plays a critical role in maintaining male fertility by stemming autoimmunity against multiple reproductive targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryce D Warren
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Soo H Ahn
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Kathryn S Brittain
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan; Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, College of Natural Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Manjunatha K Nanjappa
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Computational Mathematics, Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Jianrong Wang
- Department of Computational Mathematics, Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Gustavo Blanco
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Gladis Sanchez
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Yong Fan
- Institute of Cellular Therapeutics, Alleghany Health Network, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Brian K Petroff
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Paul S Cooke
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Margaret G Petroff
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas; Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan; Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, College of Natural Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan.
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2
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Gundogan GI, Aktas A. Immunolocalization of Fertilin β, IZUMO1, and P34H in Ram Spermatozoa. Biopreserv Biobank 2021; 19:470-482. [PMID: 33956503 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2021.0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
According to various reports, current methods of sperm freezing destroy the integrity of the sperm plasma membrane and acrosome. This study aimed to determine the changes in the existence and location of three proteins, namely fertilin β, IZUMO1, and P34H, in ram spermatozoa. By using frozen-thawed spermatozoa, ejaculated fresh spermatozoa, and testicular and epididymal spermatozoa (obtained from caput, corpus, and caudal regions), the localizations of the mentioned proteins were performed using signal labeling with indirect immunofluorescence, and the quantification of these proteins was compared using Western blot analyses. Moreover, protein localization and signal labeling in fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa subjected to in vitro capacitation and acrosome reaction were compared. Using chlortetracycline (CTC) staining, as expected, it was detected that after incubating for 4 hours under capacitating conditions related to the control sample (0 hour), capacitated and acrosome-reacted sperm were increased (p < 0.001). Frozen-thawed samples had a lower density and expression than the ejaculate samples. Expression was not obtained, except for IZUMO1, from samples that underwent in vitro capacitation/acrosome reactions. Expression of IZUMO1 was seen as an increasing band formation from the equatorial region through the acrosome, after in vitro capacitation. However, after the acrosome reaction, the band formation was only on the equatorial region. Region-specific differences of proteins at the kDa level were obtained using Western blot analysis and possible isoforms specific to ram spermatozoa or proteins with similar epitopes were expressed. Considering the changes in surface proteins in frozen-thawed sperm, it is suggested that fertilin β and P34H can be used as fertility or freezability markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gul Ipek Gundogan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul Yeni Yuzyıl University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Abit Aktas
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
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3
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Greither T, Schumacher J, Dejung M, Behre HM, Zischler H, Butter F, Herlyn H. Fertility Relevance Probability Analysis Shortlists Genetic Markers for Male Fertility Impairment. Cytogenet Genome Res 2020; 160:506-522. [PMID: 33238277 DOI: 10.1159/000511117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Impairment of male fertility is one of the major public health issues worldwide. Nevertheless, genetic causes of male sub- and infertility can often only be suspected due to the lack of reliable and easy-to-use routine tests. Yet, the development of a marker panel is complicated by the large quantity of potentially predictive markers. Actually, hundreds or even thousands of genes could have fertility relevance. Thus, a systematic method enabling a selection of the most predictive markers out of the many candidates is required. As a criterion for marker selection, we derived a gene-specific score, which we refer to as fertility relevance probability (FRP). For this purpose, we first categorized 2,753 testis-expressed genes as either candidate markers or non-candidates, according to phenotypes in male knockout mice. In a parallel approach, 2,502 genes were classified as candidate markers or non-candidates based on phenotypes in men. Subsequently, we conducted logistic regression analyses with evolutionary rates of genes (dN/dS), transcription levels in testis relative to other organs, and connectivity of the encoded proteins in a protein-protein interaction network as covariates. In confirmation of the procedure, FRP values showed the expected pattern, thus being overall higher in genes with known relevance for fertility than in their counterparts without corresponding evidence. In addition, higher FRP values corresponded with an increased dysregulation of protein abundance in spermatozoa of 37 men with normal and 38 men with impaired fertility. Present analyses resulted in a ranking of genes according to their probable predictive power as candidate markers for male fertility impairment. Thus, AKAP4, TNP1, DAZL, BRDT, DMRT1, SPO11, ZPBP, HORMAD1, and SMC1B are prime candidates toward a marker panel for male fertility impairment. Additional candidate markers are DDX4, SHCBP1L, CCDC155, ODF1, DMRTB1, ASZ1, BOLL, FKBP6, SLC25A31, PRSS21, and RNF17. FRP inference additionally provides clues for potential new markers, thereunder TEX37 and POU4F2. The results of our logistic regression analyses are freely available at the PreFer Genes website (https://prefer-genes.uni-mainz.de/).
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Greither
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Julia Schumacher
- Anthropology, Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution (iomE), Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Mario Dejung
- Quantitative Proteomics, Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB) Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Hans Zischler
- Anthropology, Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution (iomE), Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Falk Butter
- Quantitative Proteomics, Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB) Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Holger Herlyn
- Anthropology, Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution (iomE), Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany,
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4
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Elbashir S, Magdi Y, Rashed A, Henkel R, Agarwal A. Epididymal contribution to male infertility: An overlooked problem. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13721. [PMID: 32816323 DOI: 10.1111/and.13721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis and treatment of male infertility, excluding assisted conception, are limited because of, but not limited to, poor understanding of sperm post-testicular development and storage. Many may think that sperm dysfunction is only self-contained in the sperm cell itself as a result of defective spermatogenesis. However, it can also be a consequence of inadequate epididymal maturation following disorders of the epididymis. Improper epididymal functions can disturb semen parameters and sperm DNA integrity, result in high leucocyte concentrations and high numbers of immature germ cells and debris or even cause idiopathic infertility. To date, the data are limited regarding critical markers of sperm maturation and studies that can identify such markers for diagnosis and managing epididymal dysfunction are scarce. Therefore, this article aims to draw attention to recognise a disturbed epididymal environment as a potential cause of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salah Elbashir
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt
| | - Yasmin Magdi
- Al-Yasmeen Fertility and Gynecology Center, Benha, Egypt
| | - Ayman Rashed
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, 6th of October University, Egypt
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa.,American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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CHATTARAJ SOMRAJ, BASU SIDDHARTHA, RAY KALYANI, DATTA SANJOY, SARKAR PRADIP, MANDAL DURGADAS. Analysis of biomarkers for prediction of idiopathic infertility in Large White Yorkshire boar (Sus scrofa domesticus). THE INDIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2020. [DOI: 10.56093/ijans.v90i2.98770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The experiment was conducted to analyze biomarkers like pH, calcium (Ca2+), cholesterol (Ch), estradiol (E2) and vitamin D (Vit-D) in the serum for prediction of idiopathic infertility and its early amelioration. pH of epididymal luminal fluids (ELF) and concentrations of Ca2+, Ch, E2 and Vit-D were measured in serum, as well as in epididymal luminal fluids (ELF) and sperm cytosolic fluids (SCF) from caput, corpus and cauda epididymis of healthy, mature Large Yorkshire breed of boar (n=100). The levels of these bio-molecular components in the serum, in ELF and SCF from different epididymal segments were used statistically to develop a Curve Fit Regression Equations and a prediction equation to predict the quantum of these bio-molecules in the ELF and SCF by estimating their levels in the serum which would have been very difficult otherwise to be estimated in live animals. Further, from the clinical point of view, present findings about the spermatozoa maturation can pave the way for development of specific marker(s) that will assist in the development of new arena for both the prediction and early diagnosis of male infertility and for improving treatment modalities of male infertility, since epididymal dysfunctions are related to cases of idiopathic male infertility.
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6
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Wang TE, Li SH, Minabe S, Anderson AL, Dun MD, Maeda KI, Matsuda F, Chang HW, Nixon B, Tsai PSJ. Mouse quiescin sulfhydryl oxidases exhibit distinct epididymal luminal distribution with segment-specific sperm surface associations. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:1022-1033. [PMID: 29800099 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sulfhydryl oxidation is part of the sperm maturation process essential for the acquisition of sperm fertilization competency and its structural stabilization; however, the specific sulfhydryl oxidases that fulfill these roles have yet to be identified. In this study, we investigate the potential involvement of one atypical thiol oxidase family called quiescin Q6/sulfhydryl oxidase (QSOX) using the mouse epididymis as our model system. With multidisciplinary approaches, we show that QSOX isoform 1 and 2 exhibit complementary distribution throughout the epididymal duct, but that each variant possesses distinct subcellular localization within the epididymal principal cells. While QSOX2 was exclusively present in the Golgi apparatus of the caput and corpus epididymis, QSOX1c, the most profusely express QSOX1 variant, was abundantly present in the cauda luminal fluids. Moreover, immunohistochemistry studies together with proteomic identification in isolated epididymosomes provided evidence substantiating the release of QSOX2, but not QSOX1c, via an apocrine secretory pathway. Furthermore, we demonstrate for the first time, distinct association of QSOX1c and QSOX2 with the sperm acrosome and implantation fossa, during different stages of their epididymal maturation. In conclusion, our study provides the first comprehensive comparisons between QSOX1 and QSOX2 in the mouse epididymis, revealing their distinct epididymal distribution, cellular localization, mechanisms of secretion and sperm membrane association. Together, these data suggest that QSOX1 and QSOX2 have discrete biological functions in male germ cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tse-En Wang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Hsiang Li
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Tamshui, Taiwan.,Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shiori Minabe
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Amanda L Anderson
- Priority Research Centre for Reproduction, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Matthew D Dun
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Cancer Research Program, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kei-Ichiro Maeda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fuko Matsuda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hui-Wen Chang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproduction, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Pei-Shiue Jason Tsai
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Research Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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7
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Menad R, Fernini M, Smaï S, Bonnet X, Gernigon-Spychalowicz T, Moudilou E, Khammar F, Exbrayat JM. GPER1 in sand rat epididymis: Effects of seasonal variations, castration and efferent ducts ligation. Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 183:9-20. [PMID: 28688795 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Revised: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rafik Menad
- Small Vertebrates Reproduction, Laboratory of Research on Arid Areas, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Houari Boumediene University of Sciences and Technology, DZ-16111 El Alia, Algiers, Algeria; Faculty of Sciences, Department of Natural and Life Sciences, Algiers University I, Algeria.
| | - Meriem Fernini
- Small Vertebrates Reproduction, Laboratory of Research on Arid Areas, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Houari Boumediene University of Sciences and Technology, DZ-16111 El Alia, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Souaâd Smaï
- Small Vertebrates Reproduction, Laboratory of Research on Arid Areas, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Houari Boumediene University of Sciences and Technology, DZ-16111 El Alia, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Xavier Bonnet
- CEBC, UMR-7372 CNRS ULR, 79360 Villiers en Bois France
| | - Thérèse Gernigon-Spychalowicz
- Small Vertebrates Reproduction, Laboratory of Research on Arid Areas, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Houari Boumediene University of Sciences and Technology, DZ-16111 El Alia, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Elara Moudilou
- University of Lyon, UMRS 449, Laboratory of General Biology, Catholic University of Lyon, Reproduction and Comparative Development/EPHE,10 place des archives, 69002 Lyon, France
| | - Farida Khammar
- Mammal Ecophysiology, Laboratory of Research on Arid Areas, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Houari Boumediene University of Sciences and Technology, DZ-16111 El Alia, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Jean-Marie Exbrayat
- University of Lyon, UMRS 449, Laboratory of General Biology, Catholic University of Lyon, Reproduction and Comparative Development/EPHE,10 place des archives, 69002 Lyon, France.
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8
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Benny B, George Priya Doss C, Thirumal Kumar D, Asha Devi S. Assessing reproductive toxicity and antioxidant enzymes on beta asarone induced male Wistar albino rats: In vivo and computational analysis. Life Sci 2017; 173:150-160. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2016.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Revised: 08/07/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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9
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Holden SA, Fernandez-Fuertes B, Murphy C, Whelan H, O'Gorman A, Brennan L, Butler ST, Lonergan P, Fair S. Relationship between in vitro sperm functional assessments, seminal plasma composition, and field fertility after AI with either non-sorted or sex-sorted bull semen. Theriogenology 2016; 87:221-228. [PMID: 27678515 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The hypothesis of this study was that different in vitro parameters are required to predict the in vivo fertility of non-sorted (NS) and sex-sorted (SS) semen. Thus, the aim was to correlate in vitro bull sperm functional parameters (experiment 1) and seminal plasma composition (experiment 2) with pregnancy rates using 2 cohorts of bulls (NS and SS). Experiment 1: ejaculates from each bull (n = 3 ejaculates per bull; n = 6 bulls for both NS and SS) were assessed for motility, thermal stress tolerance and morphology using microscopy, and viability, osmotic resistance, mitochondrial membrane potential, and acrosome integrity using flow cytometry. Fertilizing ability was assessed using IVF. Experiment 2: ejaculates (n = 3 per bull; n = 8 and 6 bulls for NS and SS, respectively) were collected, seminal plasma harvested and frozen and later analyzed for amino acid and fatty acid composition using gas chromatography mass spectrometry. In the NS cohort of bulls, there was no correlation between pregnancy rate and any of the sperm functional parameters assessed. However, within the SS cohort, motility and viability were correlated with pregnancy rate (r = 0.84 and 0.80, respectively; P < 0.05). There was no correlation between IVF outcome and pregnancy rate in either the SS or NS cohort of bulls. In the NS cohort of bulls, concentrations of the amino acid isoleucine and the fatty acid tricosylic acid (C23:0) were correlated with pregnancy rate (r = 0.80 and 0.74, respectively; P < 0.05). Within the SS cohort of bulls, the amino acid glutamic acid and the fatty acid arachidic acid (C20:0) were correlated with pregnancy rate (r = 0.84 and 0.82, respectively; P < 0.05). In conclusion, this study suggests that different in vitro markers of fertility are required to predict the fertility of NS and SS sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Holden
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - B Fernandez-Fuertes
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - C Murphy
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - H Whelan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Institute of Food and Health, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - A O'Gorman
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Institute of Food and Health, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - L Brennan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Institute of Food and Health, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - S T Butler
- Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | - P Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - S Fair
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
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10
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Sullivan R, Mieusset R. The human epididymis: its function in sperm maturation. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:574-87. [PMID: 27307387 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatozoa acquire their fertilizing ability and forward motility properties during epididymal transit. Our knowledge of gamete physiology is based on studies conducted in laboratory and domestic species; our knowledge of these processes in humans is limited. Medical indications for assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have progressed to include male infertility. Surgical procedures allow collection of spermatozoa from all along the human excurrent ducts, and the former have been used with some success in reproductive medicine. This has raised questions over the role of the epididymis in human sperm physiology. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE To reanalyze what we now know about epididymal physiology in humans and to assess the relevance of laboratory animal models for understanding human physiology and the pathophysiology of the epididymis. SEARCH METHODS A systematic bibliographic search of PubMed for articles published in English before May 2015 was carried out using the search terms 'epididymis' and 'sperm maturation'. Literature on the consequences of vasectomy on the epididymis was also searched. OUTCOMES Whereas the proximal epididymis is almost exclusively occupied by efferent ducts, the sperm reservoir capacity is poorly developed in humans. At the molecular level, the human transcriptome and proteome show some segment specificity; conflicting results persist with regard to secretome variation along the tubule. The number of genes regulated along the excurrent ducts in men is lower when compared to rodent species, but remains significant. It is challenging to reconcile biochemical and physiological studies with clinical data obtained from men undergoing reanastomosis of the vas deferens at different points along the excurrent duct. We propose that vasectomy/vasovasostomy is a model to understand the consequences of obstruction on epididymis function in humans. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Despite the scarcity of biological material available, the interspecies variability of the male reproductive tract urges us to use modern molecular and cellular biology tools to better understand human epididymis physiology in order to apply ART in a more responsible manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Sullivan
- Département d'obstétrique, gynécologie et reproduction, Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université Laval, axe reproduction, santé de la mère et de l'enfant,
| | - Roger Mieusset
- Médecine de la Reproduction, CHU Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France Groupe de Recherche en Fertilité Humaine EA 3694, Université Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
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11
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Sullivan R. Epididymosomes: a heterogeneous population of microvesicles with multiple functions in sperm maturation and storage. Asian J Androl 2016; 17:726-9. [PMID: 26112475 PMCID: PMC4577580 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.155255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular microvesicles present in the epididymal fluid have been named epididymosomes. Many epididymosome-associated proteins are transferred to spermatozoa during their maturation in the excurrent duct. Epididymosomes are heterogeneous, with their size varying between 50 and 250 nm. Two distinct population of epididymosomes characterized by different protein compositions and diameters have been isolated from the bovine epididymal fluid using different centrifugation protocols. One subpopulation of epididymosomes was characterized by CD9 and other tetraspanin partners. Transfer of proteins from these epididymosomes to maturing spermatozoa in co-incubation experiments was inhibited by antibodies against tetraspanin proteins. This suggests that this subpopulation of epididymosomes is involved in the acquisition of proteins involved in maturation by spermatozoa in the epididymis. The other population of epididymosomes was characterized by ELSPBP1 (epididymal sperm binding protein 1), known for its affinity for the phospholipid choline group. Flow cytometric analyses showed that ELSPBP1-positive epididymosomes only interacted with dying or dead epididymal spermatozoa in a Zn 2 + -dependent manner. BLVRA (biliverdin reductase) was identified as a partner of ELSPBP1. This enzyme reduces biliverdin to bilirubin: two molecules with powerful anti-oxidant properties. We hypothesize that BLVRA is involved in an ROS-scavenging mechanism protecting live epididymal spermatozoa against detrimental molecules (ROS) released by dying cells. Therefore, it appears that there are at least two epididymosome population with distinct functions: targeting specific proteins to transiting spermatozoa by tetraspanin-mediated membrane fusion, and protection of epididymal spermatozoa against ROS released from dying cells. Further work is needed to understand functions of epididymosomes in epididymal physiology and sperm maturation and storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Sullivan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval and Reproduction, Mother and Youth Health Division, Research Center CHU de Québec, Québec, G1V 4G2, Canada
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12
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Dacheux JL, Dacheux F, Druart X. Epididymal protein markers and fertility. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 169:76-87. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Revised: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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13
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Aboutorabi R, Mazani F, Rafiee L. Evaluation of CD52 positive sperms in subfertile human semen samples: Is there any relationship with main semen parameters? Adv Biomed Res 2014; 3:124. [PMID: 24949295 PMCID: PMC4063091 DOI: 10.4103/2277-9175.133201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 09/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Sperm maturation and sperm membrane integration are the most important elements in male fertility. CD52 is one of the antigens. CD52 is a GPI (glycosylphosphatidylinositol) anchored that express on lymphocytes and epididymal cells. This antigen bind to sperm membrane during transition sperm from epididymal duct as well as its relationship with semenogelins in human seminal plasma. The aim of this study was to obtain any association between the percentage of CD52 positive sperms with main semen parameters such as percentage of motile sperms, percentage of sperm with normal morphology, and the presence of normal viscosity. Materials and Methods: Semen samples from subfertile men were analyzed, the samples totally were 45 that divided according to their motility into three groups, first one, more than 40%, second one 10-40%, and the third one under 10% total motility. Fifteen samples in each group were evaluated by semen analysis according to WHO 2010 guidelines for infertility laboratory. Sperms were washed by Ham's F-10 and immunostaining with the monoclonal antibody CAMPATH-1G and then analyzed by flow cytometry. We compared each of the groups based on their motility and the data were analyzed by SPSS 20. Results: Correlation between CD52 labeling and sperm motility was negatively significant, in the second group (r = –0.592, P = 0.020) and in the third group (r = –0.805, P = 0.00). Conclusion: Our results showed that the correlation between CD52 labeling and sperm motility was negatively significant, but we did not observe any relation with other semen parameters, such as sperm normal morphology, sperm concentration, and semen viscosity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshanak Aboutorabi
- Head of Infertility Laboratory, Shahid Beheshti Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran ; Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mazani
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Laleh Rafiee
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Physiology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Lee KH. Differential Expression of Multiple Connexins in Rat Corpus and Cauda Epididymis at Various Postnatal Stages. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.5187/jast.2013.55.6.521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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15
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Lee SK, Son LT, Choi HJ, Ahnn J. Dicarbonyl/l-xylulose reductase (DCXR): The multifunctional pentosuria enzyme. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2013; 45:2563-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2013.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2013] [Accepted: 08/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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16
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Han SY, Lee KH. The Expression Patterns of Connexin Isoforms in the Rat Caput Epididymis During Postnatal Development. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.5187/jast.2013.55.4.249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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17
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Srivastava N, Srivastava SK, Ghosh SK, Kumar A, Perumal P, Jerome A. Acrosome membrane integrity and cryocapacitation are related to cholesterol content of bull spermatozoa. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTION 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/s2305-0500(13)60132-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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18
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Li C, Zhou X. Gene transcripts in spermatozoa: markers of male infertility. Clin Chim Acta 2012; 413:1035-8. [PMID: 22445828 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2012.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2011] [Revised: 03/05/2012] [Accepted: 03/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The presence of a complex population of gene transcripts in mature human sperm is well established, and numerous mRNAs and non-coding mRNAs have been identified in sperm of men and other mammalian species using microarray and RT-PCR. The traditional concept that RNAs in mature sperm are only remnants from spermatogenesis and have no biological functions is in doubt. The findings that reverse transcriptases in sperm are active and that sperm can independently activate translation of stored mRNAs suggest that sperm RNAs may have significant effects on male fertility. The differences in expression profiles among RNAs in mature sperm from fertile and infertile men, and the regulation of sperm RNAs in embryonic development make them appealing markers for therapeutic and diagnostic tools in male infertility. In this review, methods for the detection and description of the diversity of gene transcript in sperm are discussed along with their putative roles in functional aspects of sperm and in embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunjin Li
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, PR China
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19
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Cyr DG, Dubé E, Dufresne J, Gregory M. Development of biological tools to study claudins in the male reproductive tract. Methods Mol Biol 2011; 762:259-73. [PMID: 21717362 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-61779-185-7_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
It is estimated that between 12 and 15% of couples are infertile. More than half of these are related to problems associated with male reproductive dysfunction. Of those, 40% occur from idiopathic or unexplained causes. While spermatozoa are formed in the testis, testicular spermatozoa are immature and cannot swim or fertilize. These critical functions are acquired as spermatozoa transit through the epididymis in the specific luminal environment created in part by the tight junctions of the blood-epididymis barrier. To understand the normal and pathological conditions attributable to human and animal epididymal function, we have needed to develop biological tools to characterize the physiological, cellular, and molecular functions of tight junctions and claudins (Cldns) in the epididymis. We have shown that by developing epididymal cell lines we have gained valuable insight into the functions of epididymal Cldns, the regulation of the Cldn1 gene and how these can be mistargeted in infertile men. Here we describe some of the techniques that have been used to address these critical aspects of epididymal Cldns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Cyr
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Laval, QC, Canada.
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20
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Son LT, Ko KM, Cho JH, Singaravelu G, Chatterjee I, Choi TW, Song HO, Yu JR, Park BJ, Lee SK, Ahnn J. DHS-21, a dicarbonyl/L-xylulose reductase (DCXR) ortholog, regulates longevity and reproduction in Caenorhabditis elegans. FEBS Lett 2011; 585:1310-6. [PMID: 21477590 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2011.03.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2010] [Revised: 03/29/2011] [Accepted: 03/29/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Dicarbonyl/L-xylulose reductase (DCXR) converts l-xylulose into xylitol, and reduces various α-dicarbonyl compounds, thus performing a dual role in carbohydrate metabolism and detoxification. In this study, we identified DHS-21 as the only DCXR ortholog in Caenorhabditis elegans. The dhs-21 gene is expressed in various tissues including the intestine, gonadal sheath cells, uterine seam (utse) cells, the spermathecal-uterus (sp-ut) valve and on the plasma membrane of spermatids. Recombinant DHS-21 was shown to convert L-xylulose to xylitol using NADPH as a cofactor. Dhs-21 null mutants of C. elegans show defects in longevity, reproduction and egg-laying. Knock-down of daf-16 and elt-2 transcription factors affected dhs-21 expression. These results suggest that DHS-21 is a bona fide DCXR of C. elegans, essential for normal life span and reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Tho Son
- Department of Life Science, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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21
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Burns BM, Fordyce G, Holroyd RG. A review of factors that impact on the capacity of beef cattle females to conceive, maintain a pregnancy and wean a calf-Implications for reproductive efficiency in northern Australia. Anim Reprod Sci 2010; 122:1-22. [PMID: 20447780 PMCID: PMC7131258 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2010.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2009] [Revised: 04/01/2010] [Accepted: 04/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A review of factors that may impact on the capacity of beef cattle females, grazing semi-extensive to extensive pastures in northern Australia, to conceive, maintain a pregnancy and wean a calf was conducted. Pregnancy and weaning rates have generally been used to measure the reproductive performance of herds. However, this review recognises that reproductive efficiency and the general measures associated with it more effectively describe the economic performance of beef cattle enterprises. More specifically, reproductive efficiency is influenced by (1) pregnancy rate which is influenced by (i) age at puberty; (ii) duration of post-partum anoestrus; (iii) fertilisation failure and (iv) embryo survival; while (2) weight by number of calves per breeding female retained for mating is influenced by (i) cow survival; (ii) foetal survival; and (iii) calf survival; and (3) overall lifetime calf weight weaned per mating. These measures of reproductive efficiency are discussed in depth. Further, a range of infectious and non-infectious factors, namely, environmental, physiological, breed and genetic factors and their impact on these stages of the reproductive cycle are investigated and implications for the northern Australian beef industry are discussed. Finally, conclusions and recommendations to minimise reproductive inefficiencies based on current knowledge are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- B M Burns
- Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation, CQMC, Rockhampton, Queensland 4702, Australia.
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22
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Girouard J, Frenette G, Sullivan R. Compartmentalization of proteins in epididymosomes coordinates the association of epididymal proteins with the different functional structures of bovine spermatozoa. Biol Reprod 2009; 80:965-72. [PMID: 19164173 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.073551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Epididymosomes are small membranous vesicles secreted by epithelial cells within the luminal compartment of the epididymis. In bovine, many proteins are associated with epididymosomes, and some of them, such as the glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored protein P25b, macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), and aldose reductase (AKR1B1), are transferred to spermatozoa during the epididymal maturation process. P25b is associated with detergent-resistant membrane (DRM) domains of epididymal spermatozoa, whereas MIF and AKR1B1 are cytosolic proteins associated with detergent-soluble fractions. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that DRM domains are also present in the epididymosomes and that P25b DRM-associated proteins in these vesicles are transferred to the DRMs of spermatozoa. The presence of DRMs in epididymosomes was confirmed by their insolubility in cold Triton X-100 and their low buoyant density in sucrose gradient. Furthermore, DRMs isolated from epididymosomes are characterized by the exclusive presence of ganglioside GM1 and by high levels of cholesterol and sphingomyelin. Biochemical analysis indicated that P25b is linked to DRM in epididymosomes, whereas MIF and AKR1B1 are completely excluded from these membrane domains. Proteolytic treatment of epididymosomes and immunoblotting studies showed that P25b is affected by trypsin or pronase proteolysis. In contrast, MIF and AKR1B1 are not degraded by proteases, suggesting that they are localized within epididymosomes. Interaction studies between epididymosomes and epididymal spermatozoa demonstrated that P25b is transferred from the DRM of epididymosomes to the DRM of the caput epididymal spermatozoa as a GPI-anchored protein. Together, these data suggest that specific localization and compartmentalization of proteins in the epididymosomes coordinate the association of epididymal proteins with the different functional structures of spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Girouard
- Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
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23
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24
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Li X, Liu Q, Liu S, Zhang X, Liu Y, Zhang Y. The spatiotemporal expression changes of 16 epididymis-specific genes induced by testosterone, heat, and combination treatment in cynomolgus monkey. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2008. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7270.2008.00451.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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25
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Contribution of sperm molecular features to embryo quality and assisted reproduction success. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 17:855-65. [DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60415-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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26
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Influence of cooling rate on the ability of frozen–thawed sperm to bind to heterologous zona pellucida, as assessed by competitive in vitro binding assays in the ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) and tigrina (Leopardus tigrinus). Theriogenology 2008; 69:204-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2007.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2007] [Accepted: 09/14/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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27
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Cyr DG, Gregory M, Dubé E, Dufresne J, Chan PTK, Hermo L. Orchestration of occludins, claudins, catenins and cadherins as players involved in maintenance of the blood-epididymal barrier in animals and humans. Asian J Androl 2007; 9:463-75. [PMID: 17589783 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7262.2007.00308.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Although spermatozoa are formed during spermatogenesis in the testis, testicular spermatozoa are immature and cannot swim or fertilize. These critical spermatozoal functions are acquired in the epididymis where a specific luminal environment is created by the blood-epididymal barrier; proteins secreted by epididymal principal cells bind to maturing spermatozoa and regulate the maturational process of the spermatozoa. In the epididymis, epithelial cell-cell interactions are mediated by adhering junctions, necessary for cell adhesion, and by tight junctions, which form the blood-epididymal barrier. The regulation of these cellular junctions is thought to represent a key determinant in the process of sperm maturation within the epididymis. Tight junctions between adjacent principal cells permit the formation of a specific microenvironment in the lumen of the epididymis that is essential for sperm maturation. Although we have made significant progress in understanding epididymal function and the blood-epididymal barrier, using animal models, there is limited information on the human epididymis. If we are to understand the normal and pathological conditions attributable to human epididymal function, we must clearly establish the physiological, cellular and molecular regulation of the human epididymis, develop tools to characterize these functions and develop clinical strategies that will use epididymal functions to improve treatment of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Cyr
- INRS-Institut Armand Frappier, Université du Québec, 245 Hymus Boulevard, Pointe Claire, Quebec H9R 1G6, Canada.
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28
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Leeb T. The Horse Genome Project ? Sequence Based Insights into Male Reproductive Mechanisms. Reprod Domest Anim 2007; 42 Suppl 2:45-50. [PMID: 17688601 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2007.00897.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The growing knowledge on physiology, cell biology and biochemistry of the reproductive organs has provided many insights into molecular mechanisms that are required for successful reproduction. Research directed at the investigation of reproduction physiology in domestic animals was hampered in the past by a lack of species-specific genomic information. The genome sequences of dog, cattle and horse have become publicly available in 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively. Although the gene content of mammalian genomes is generally very similar, genes involved in reproduction tend to be less conserved than the average mammalian gene. The availability of genome sequences provides a valuable resource to check whether any protein that may be known from human or mouse research is present in cattle and/or horse as well. Currently there are more than 200 genes known that are involved in the production of fertile sperm cells. Great progress has been made in the understanding of genetic aberrations that lead to male infertility. Additionally, the first genetic mechanisms are being discovered that contribute to the quantitative variation of fertility traits in fertile male animals. Here, I will review some selected aspects of genetic research in male fertility and offer some perspectives for the use of genomic sequence information.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Leeb
- Institute of Genetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Berne, Berne, Switzerland.
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29
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Dinnyes A, Liu J, Nedambale TL. Novel gamete storage. Reprod Fertil Dev 2007; 19:719-31. [PMID: 17714626 DOI: 10.1071/rd07035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2007] [Accepted: 06/08/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this review is to outline recent advances in gamete storage that are beneficial for rescuing endangered species or for the breeding of companion animals. Much more information is available on the technical resolutions and practical applications of sperm cryopreservation in various species than of female gametes, reproductive tissues or organs. Mammalian sperm cryopreservation often works relatively efficiently; however, the ability of female gametes to be cryopreserved and still be viable for fertilisation is also essential for rescuing endangered species. For a proper evaluation of gamete cryopreservation possibilities in a given species, it is essential to understand the basic mechanism affecting the survival of cryopreserved cells, the technical and physical limitations, the available techniques and the new avenues to resolve the specific problems in that species. This paper is aimed to provide some help for this process. The limited length of this paper resulted in the omission of information on many important areas, including most data on teleosts, amphibian and insect cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Dinnyes
- Biotalentum Ltd, Aulich L. 26, Godollo 2100, Hungary.
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30
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Pesch S, Bergmann M. Structure of mammalian spermatozoa in respect to viability, fertility and cryopreservation. Micron 2006; 37:597-612. [PMID: 16621580 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2006.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2005] [Accepted: 02/28/2006] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Morphological assessment of spermatozoa has a long history and it is generally accepted that specific morphologic structural deviations correlate with male sub- and infertility. Although many different and also new methods are used in semen analysis, light microscopy is still used for routine morphological evaluation. This paper gives an overview about the detailed structure of physiological mammalian spermatozoa as well as the most common morphological deviations in correlation to fertility. This should be the basis for explanation of problems resulting from semen cryopreservation. General aspects of semen cryopreservation should be regarded before to facilitate the understanding of methods and mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Pesch
- Clinic for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology of Large and Small Animals, Justus-Liebig-University, Frankfurter Str. 106, 35392 Giessen, Germany.
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31
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Sullivan R, Légaré C, Villeneuve M, Foliguet B, Bissonnette F. Levels of P34H, a sperm protein of epididymal origin, as a predictor of conventional in vitro fertilization outcome. Fertil Steril 2006; 85:1557-9. [PMID: 16616743 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.10.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2005] [Revised: 10/27/2005] [Accepted: 10/27/2005] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A prospective double-blind study was performed to determine if Western blot detection of P34H, a sperm protein of epididymal origin that is involved in the binding to the zona pellucida, is predictive of standard IVF outcome. Our results demonstrate that the proportion of positive P34H cases that produced embryos in vitro clearly differs from cases with undetectable levels of P34H (P<.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Sullivan
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département d'Obstétrique Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Ste-Foy, Québec, Canada.
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32
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Desrosiers P, Légaré C, Leclerc P, Sullivan R. Membranous and structural damage that occur during cryopreservation of human sperm may be time-related events. Fertil Steril 2006; 85:1744-52. [PMID: 16643911 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.11.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2005] [Revised: 11/14/2005] [Accepted: 11/14/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate sperm cryopreservation-induced injuries using sperm plasma membrane protein P34H and alpha-tubulin as two different subcellular compartment markers. DESIGN Prospective experimental study. SETTING Academic hospital research center and fertility clinic. PATIENT(S) Semen samples obtained from healthy donors attending the fertility clinic. Sperm samples were either directly processed for sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Western blot experiments (control group) or cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen for different periods of time before being analyzed. INTERVENTION(S) SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, and densitometric quantification of P34H and alpha-tubulin before and after cryopreservation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Changes in protein quantification between the different groups as a result of sperm cryopreservation. RESULT(S) In the 31 sperm samples processed for P34H evaluation, a 50% decrease is observed after sperm cryopreservation as compared to the control group. The alpha-tubulin immunoblotting of 41 sperm samples revealed a 200% increase in the protein detection in the group of cryopreserved sperm as compared to the control group. Contrary to the P34H detection, this change in alpha-tubulin immunodetected levels appears to be related to the cryopreservation period as it increases during storage. CONCLUSION(S) These findings indicate that cryopreservation of human semen induces damages at different cellular levels. Moreover, some cryoinjuries are immediate although others seem to take place over time stored in liquid nitrogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Desrosiers
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
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33
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Dubé E, Legaré C, Gaudreault C, Sullivan R. Contraceptive responses of female hamsters immunized with recombinant sperm protein P26h. Contraception 2005; 72:459-67. [PMID: 16307971 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2005.06.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2005] [Revised: 05/27/2005] [Accepted: 06/04/2005] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A number of antigens have been characterized and proposed as potential candidates for immunocontraception. P26h, a 26-kDa hamster sperm protein located on the acrosomal cap, is known to be involved in sperm-zona pellucida interactions. Furthermore, in vivo fertilization can be blocked by active immunization of male hamsters against P26h or maltose-binding protein recombinant P26h (MBP-P26h). OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the immune response and reproductive function of female hamsters immunized against MBP-P26h. RESULTS Active immunization against MBP-P26h resulted in anti-P26h circulating antibodies, with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) titers showing interindividual variability. The antibodies produced by the animals immunized against MBP-P26h reacted with the native P26h protein in ELISA, in Western blot analysis and in immunostaining performed on cauda epididymal spermatozoa. Mating of immunized female hamsters resulted in a significant decrease in the number of viable fetuses only in females with high titers of anti-P26h circulating antibodies. DISCUSSION This result is in agreement with the sperm-zona pellucida binding assay's results. Indeed, sera collected from immunized animals, and not from control animals, significantly blocked sperm-zona pellucida binding in vitro. Histological studies showed that active immunization did not cause any pathology in the reproductive tissues. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that P26h is a potential candidate for the development of a contraceptive vaccine in both males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evemie Dubé
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction and Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec Canada
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Abstract
Our knowledge on the many aspects of mammalian reproduction in general and equine reproduction in particular has greatly increased during the last 15 years. Advances in the understanding of the physiology, cell biology, and biochemistry of reproduction have facilitated genetic analyses of fertility. Currently, there are more than 200 genes known that are involved in the production of fertile sperm cells. The completion of a number of mammalian genome projects will aid in the investigation of these genes in different species. Great progress has been made in the understanding of genetic aberrations that lead to male infertility. Additionally, the first genetic mechanisms are being discovered that contribute to the quantitative variation of fertility traits in fertile male animals. As artificial insemination (AI) represents a widespread technology in horse breeding, semen quality traits may eventually become an additional selection criterion for breeding stallions. Current research activities try to identify genetic markers that correlate to these semen quality traits. Here, we will review the current state of genetic research in male fertility and offer some perspectives for future research in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tosso Leeb
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17p, 30559 Hannover, Germany.
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35
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Sullivan R, Saez F, Girouard J, Frenette G. Role of exosomes in sperm maturation during the transit along the male reproductive tract. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2005; 35:1-10. [PMID: 15893944 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2005.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2005] [Accepted: 03/29/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Even tough differentiated spermatozoa are unable of transcriptional or translational activity; the sperm surface undergoes major modifications in macromolecules composition during the transit along the male reproductive tract. This is the result of sequential, well orchestrated interactions between the male reproductive tract secretions and the transiting male gamete. This is particularly true when spermatozoa transit along the epididymis. The epididymis is a long convoluted tubules in which the spermatozoa leaving the testis have to transit. The unraveled epididymal tubule can be as long as 80 m in stallion, and the transit time of spermatozoa is of 3-12 days depending on the species. The epididymis is usually divided in three segments: the caput (proximal part), the corpus, and cauda. While the cauda epididymides acts as a sperm reservoir, the caput and corpus are responsible for sperm maturation. This means that, under androgen control, the epididymal epithelium secretes proteins that will interact sequentially with sperm surface. Some of the sperm proteins acquired during maturation along the excurrent duct behave as integral membrane proteins. In fact, some epididymal originating proteins are glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored to the sperm plasma membrane. Our laboratory has shown that some of these proteins are secreted in an apocrine manner by the epididymal epithelium and are associated to exosomes, called epididymosomes. Epididymosomes are rich in sphingomyelin and are characterized by a high cholesterol/phospholipids ratio. Many proteins are associated to epididymosomes, some of which are selectively transferred to spermatozoa during the epididymal transit. We have identified some of these exosomes associated proteins transferred to the maturing spermatozoa. These include two enzymes involved in the polyol pathway: an aldose reductase and a sorbitol dehydrogenase. A cytokine named MIF (macrophage migration inhibitory factor) is another protein associated to exosomes who is transferred to spermatozoa during the epididymal transit. We hypothesized that both the polyol pathway and MIF secreted in an apocrine fashion by the epididymal epithelium modulate sperm motility during the transit along the male reproductive tract. Finally, P25b, belonging to a family of sperm surface proteins (P26h/P34H) necessary for the binding to the surface of the egg, is also acquired through the interaction between epididymosomes and the male gamete. In vitro studies have defined the conditions of protein transfer when epididymal spermatozoa are co-incubated with epididymosomes. The transfer of selected proteins to specific membrane domains of spermatozoa is saturable, temperature and pH-dependent, being optimal at pH 6.5. The presence of zinc in the incubation medium, but not of calcium neither magnesium, significantly increases the efficiency of protein transfer. These results show that exosomes play a role in sperm epididymal maturation which is an essential event to produce male gametes with optimal fertilizing ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Sullivan
- Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Canada.
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