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Shen QZ, Wang YF, Fang YW, Chen YY, He LT, Zhang Y, Liu GT, Zhao K, Liu CY, Fan ZP, Zhang HP. Seminal plasma S100A8/A9 as a potential biomarker of genital tract inflammation. Asian J Androl 2024; 26:464-471. [PMID: 38727211 DOI: 10.4103/aja202389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Infections and inflammatory reactions in the male genital tract are the leading causes of male infertility with a prevalence of 6%-10%, primarily affecting testicular and epididymal function and ultimately compromising sperm quality. However, most infertile patients with genital infection/inflammation are asymptomatic and easily overlooked. Traditional indicators, including white blood cells, elastase, and other components in semen, can reflect inflammation of the genital tract, but there is still a lack of a uniform standard method of detection. Therefore, it is necessary to explore reliable markers in semen that reflect the inflammatory status of the genital tract. Using the experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) model to simulate noninfectious chronic orchitis, we successfully collected ejaculated seminal fluid from EAO rats using optimized electrical stimulation devices. Proteomic analysis was performed using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ). Compared to the control group, 55 upregulated and 105 downregulated proteins were identified in seminal plasma samples from the EAO group. In a preliminary screening, the inflammation-related protein S100A8/A9 was upregulated. We further verified that S100A8/A9 was increased in seminal plasma and highly expressed in testicular macrophages of the EAO model. In patients with oligoasthenospermia and genital tract infections, we also found that S100A8/A9 levels were remarkably increased in seminal plasma and testicular macrophages. S100A8/A9 in semen may be a potential biomarker for chronic genital inflammation. Our study provides a new potential biomarker for early diagnosis and further understanding of male infertility caused by genital inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu-Zi Shen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yong-Feng Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yi-Wei Fang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yuan-Yao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Li-Ting He
- The Affiliated Jinyang Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550018, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Guo-Tao Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Prevention, Henan Institute of Reproduction Health Science and Technology, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Chun-Yan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Zun-Pan Fan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The first Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Hui-Ping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Prevention, Henan Institute of Reproduction Health Science and Technology, Zhengzhou 450002, China
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Pan C, Zhaxi Y, Li H, Guan F, Pan J, Wa D, Song T, Zhao W. Effects of microbiota-testis interactions on the reproductive health of male ruminants: A review. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14704. [PMID: 39126408 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14704] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Ruminants are one of the world's economically important species, and their reproductive health is critical to the economic development of the livestock industry. In recent years, research on the relationship between microbiota and reproductive health has received much attention. Microbiota disruption affects the developmental health of the testes and epididymis, the male reproductive organs of the host, which in turn is related to sperm quality. Maintaining a stable microbiota protects the host from pathogens and increases breeding performance, which in turn promotes the economic development of animal husbandry. In addition, the effects and mechanisms of microbiota on reproduction were further explored. These findings support new approaches to improving and managing reproductive health in ruminants through the microbiota and facilitate further systematic exploration of microbiota-mediated reproductive impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Pan
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Yangzong Zhaxi
- Institute of Animal Science, Xizang Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Xizang Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lhasa, China
| | - Haiyan Li
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Feng Guan
- School of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junru Pan
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Da Wa
- Institute of Animal Science, Xizang Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, China
| | - Tianzeng Song
- Institute of Animal Science, Xizang Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Xizang Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lhasa, China
| | - Wangsheng Zhao
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
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3
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Zhao Y, Deng S, Li C, Cao J, Wu A, Chen M, Ma X, Wu S, Lian Z. The Role of Retinoic Acid in Spermatogenesis and Its Application in Male Reproduction. Cells 2024; 13:1092. [PMID: 38994945 PMCID: PMC11240464 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131092] [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: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis in mammalian testes is essential for male fertility, ensuring a continuous supply of mature sperm. The testicular microenvironment finely tunes this process, with retinoic acid, an active metabolite of vitamin A, serving a pivotal role. Retinoic acid is critical for various stages, including the differentiation of spermatogonia, meiosis in spermatogenic cells, and the production of mature spermatozoa. Vitamin A deficiency halts spermatogenesis, leading to the degeneration of numerous germ cells, a condition reversible with retinoic acid supplementation. Although retinoic acid can restore fertility in some males with reproductive disorders, it does not work universally. Furthermore, high doses may adversely affect reproduction. The inconsistent outcomes of retinoid treatments in addressing infertility are linked to the incomplete understanding of the molecular mechanisms through which retinoid signaling governs spermatogenesis. In addition to the treatment of male reproductive disorders, the role of retinoic acid in spermatogenesis also provides new ideas for the development of male non-hormone contraceptives. This paper will explore three facets: the synthesis and breakdown of retinoic acid in the testes, its role in spermatogenesis, and its application in male reproduction. Our discussion aims to provide a comprehensive reference for studying the regulatory effects of retinoic acid signaling on spermatogenesis and offer insights into its use in treating male reproductive issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shoulong Deng
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Animal Model, National Health Commission of China (NHC) Key Laboratory of Comparative Medicine, Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Comparative Medicine Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Chongyang Li
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jingchao Cao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Aowu Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Mingming Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xuehai Ma
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Mental Development and Learning Science, College of Psychology, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi 830017, China
| | - Sen Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhengxing Lian
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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4
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Shan X, Zhang X, Huang G, Lv J, Ye Z, Jiang C, Jiang X, Cheng J, Lin H, Jiang H, Yue H, Wang Z, Xu W. A novel SNP in HUWE1 promoter confers increased risk of NOA by affecting the RA/RARα pathway in Chinese individuals. Andrology 2024; 12:338-348. [PMID: 37290064 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13474] [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: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ubiquitin ligase HECT, UBA, and WWE domain-containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 is essential for the establishment and maintenance of spermatogonia. However, the role of HECT, UBA, and WWE domain-containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 in regulating germ cell differentiation remains unclear, and clinical evidence linking HECT, UBA, and WWE domain-containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 to male infertility pathogenesis is lacking. OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate the role of HUWE1 in germ cell differentiation and the mechanism by which a HUWE1 single nucleotide polymorphism increases male infertility risk. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyzed HUWE1 single nucleotide polymorphisms in 190 non-obstructive azoospermia patients of Han Chinese descent. We evaluated HECT, UBA, and WWE domain-containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 regulation by retinoic acid receptor alpha using chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, electrophoretic mobility shift assays, and siRNA-mediated RARα knockdown. Using C18-4 spermatogonial cells, we determined whether HECT, UBA, and WWE domain-containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 participated in retinoic acid-mediated retinoic acid receptor alpha signaling. We performed luciferase assays, cell counting kit-8 assays, immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and western blotting. We quantified HUWE1 and retinoic acid receptor alpha in testicular biopsies from non-obstructive azoospermia and obstructive azoospermia patients using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence. RESULTS Three HUWE1 single nucleotide polymorphisms were significantly associated with spermatogenic failure in 190 non-obstructive azoospermia patients; one (rs34492591) was in the HUWE1 promoter. Retinoic acid receptor alpha regulates HUWE1 gene expression by binding to its promoter. HECT, UBA, and WWE domain-containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 participates in retinoic acid/retinoic acid receptor alpha signaling pathway and regulates the expression of germ cell differentiation genes STRA8 and SCP3 to inhibit cell proliferation and reduce γH2AX accumulation. Notably, significantly lower levels of HUWE1 and RARα were detected in testicular biopsy samples from non-obstructive azoospermia patients. CONCLUSIONS An HUWE1 promoter single nucleotide polymorphism significantly downregulates its expression in non-obstructive azoospermia patients. Mechanistically, HECT, UBA, and WWE domain-containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 regulates germ cell differentiation during meiotic prophase through its participation in retinoic acid/retinoic acid receptor alpha signaling and subsequent modulation of γH2AX. Taken together, these results strongly suggest that the genetic polymorphisms of HUWE1 are closely related to spermatogenesis and non-obstructive azoospermia pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Shan
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xueguang Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Gelin Huang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiao Lv
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zixia Ye
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chuan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaohui Jiang
- Human Sperm Bank, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Disease of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Jianxing Cheng
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Haocheng Lin
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Huanxun Yue
- Human Sperm Bank, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Disease of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhengrong Wang
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenming Xu
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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5
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Osman MM, Hammad MA, Barham DW, Toma R, El-Khatib FM, Dianatnejad S, Nguyen J, Towe M, Choi E, Wu Q, Banavar G, Cai Y, Moura P, Shen N, Vuyisich M, Yafi NR, Yafi FA. Comparison of the gut microbiome composition between men with erectile dysfunction and a matched cohort: a pilot study. Andrology 2024; 12:374-379. [PMID: 37316348 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13481] [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: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To-date there have been minimal studies to investigate an association between the gut microbiome and erectile dysfunction. There have been many inflammatory diseases linked to gut microbiome dysbiosis; such as cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. These same inflammatory diseases have been heavily linked to erectile dysfunction. Given the correlations between both conditions and cardiovascular disease and the metabolic syndrome, we believe that it is worthwhile to investigate a link between the two. OBJECTIVE To investigate the potential association between the gut microbiome and erectile dysfunction. METHODS Stool samples were collected from 28 participants with erectile dysfunction and 32 age-matched controls. Metatranscriptome sequencing was used to analyze the samples. RESULTS No significant differences were found in the gut microbiome characteristics, including Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes richness (p = 0.117), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes diversity (p = 0.323), species richness (p = 0.364), and species diversity (p = 0.300), between the erectile dysfunction and control groups. DISCUSSION The association of gut microbiome dysbiosis and pro-inflammatory conditions has been well studied and further literature continues to add to this evidence. Our main limitation for this study was our small-sample size due to recruitment issues. We believe that a study with a larger population size may find an association between the gut microbiome and erectile dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study do not support a significant association between the gut microbiome and erectile dysfunction. Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between these two conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad M Osman
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City University, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Muhammed A Hammad
- Department of Urology, University of California, Irvine Medical Center, Orange, California, USA
| | - David W Barham
- Department of Urology, University of California, Irvine Medical Center, Orange, California, USA
| | - Ryan Toma
- Viome, Inc., Bellevue, Washington/Los Alamos, New Mexico/New York, New York/San Diego, California, USA
| | - Farouk M El-Khatib
- Department of Urology, University of California, Irvine Medical Center, Orange, California, USA
| | - Sharmin Dianatnejad
- Department of Urology, University of California, Irvine Medical Center, Orange, California, USA
| | - Jeanie Nguyen
- Department of Urology, University of California, Irvine Medical Center, Orange, California, USA
| | - Maxwell Towe
- Department of Urology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Edward Choi
- Department of Urology, University of California, Irvine Medical Center, Orange, California, USA
| | - Qiaqia Wu
- Department of Urology, University of California, Irvine Medical Center, Orange, California, USA
| | - Guruduth Banavar
- Viome, Inc., Bellevue, Washington/Los Alamos, New Mexico/New York, New York/San Diego, California, USA
| | - Ying Cai
- Viome, Inc., Bellevue, Washington/Los Alamos, New Mexico/New York, New York/San Diego, California, USA
| | - Pedro Moura
- Viome, Inc., Bellevue, Washington/Los Alamos, New Mexico/New York, New York/San Diego, California, USA
| | - Nan Shen
- Viome, Inc., Bellevue, Washington/Los Alamos, New Mexico/New York, New York/San Diego, California, USA
| | - Momchilo Vuyisich
- Viome, Inc., Bellevue, Washington/Los Alamos, New Mexico/New York, New York/San Diego, California, USA
| | - Natalie R Yafi
- Independent Registered Dietitian, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Faysal A Yafi
- Department of Urology, University of California, Irvine Medical Center, Orange, California, USA
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Quarantani G, Sorgente A, Alfano M, Pipitone GB, Boeri L, Pozzi E, Belladelli F, Pederzoli F, Ferrara AM, Montorsi F, Moles A, Carrera P, Salonia A, Casari G. Whole exome data prioritization unveils the hidden weight of Mendelian causes of male infertility. A report from the first Italian cohort. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288336. [PMID: 37540677 PMCID: PMC10403130 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Almost 40% of infertile men cases are classified as idiopathic when tested negative to the current diagnostic routine based on the screening of karyotype, Y chromosome microdeletions and CFTR mutations in men with azoospermia or oligozoospermia. Rare monogenic forms of infertility are not routinely evaluated. In this study we aim to investigate the unknown potential genetic causes in couples with pure male idiopathic infertility by applying variant prioritization to whole exome sequencing (WES) in a cohort of 99 idiopathic Italian patients. The ad-hoc manually curated gene library prioritizes genes already known to be associated with more common and rare syndromic and non-syndromic male infertility forms. Twelve monogenic cases (12.1%) were identified in the whole cohort of patients. Of these, three patients had variants related to mild androgen insensitivity syndrome, two in genes related to hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, and six in genes related to spermatogenic failure, while one patient is mutant in PKD1. These results suggest that NGS combined with our manually curated pipeline for variant prioritization and classification can uncover a considerable number of Mendelian causes of infertility even in a small cohort of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gioia Quarantani
- Genome-Phenome Relationship Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Sorgente
- Genome-Phenome Relationship Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Alfano
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Battista Pipitone
- Genomics for Human Disease Diagnosis Unit and Lab of Clinical Genomics, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Boeri
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Department of Urology, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Edoardo Pozzi
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Belladelli
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo Pederzoli
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Ferrara
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Montorsi
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Moles
- CNR Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Carrera
- Genomics for Human Disease Diagnosis Unit and Lab of Clinical Genomics, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Salonia
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgio Casari
- Genome-Phenome Relationship Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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7
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Cao Y, Wang H, Jin Z, Hang J, Jiang H, Wu H, Zhang Z. Characterization of Non-Obstructive Azoospermia in Men Using Gut Microbial Profiling. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12020701. [PMID: 36675631 PMCID: PMC9861525 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12020701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a complex multifactorial disease and the causes of most NOA cases remain unknown. (2) Methods: Here, we performed comprehensive clinical analyses and gut microbial profiling using shotgun metagenomic sequencing in patients with NOA and control individuals. (3) Results: The gut microbial alpha and beta diversity significantly differed between patients with NOA and controls. Several microbial strains, including Bacteroides vulgatus and Streptococcus thermophilus, were significantly more abundant in the NOA group, whereas Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and Parabacteroides sp. CT06 were enriched in the control group. Moreover, functional pathway analysis suggested that the altered microbiota in NOA suppressed the carbohydrate metabolism pathway, while amino acid metabolism and methane metabolism pathways were enhanced. We observed that the differential microbial species, such as Acinetobacter johnsonii, had a strong correlation with clinical parameters, including age, body mass index, testosterone, and follicle-stimulating hormone. Communication and interplay among microbial genera were significantly increased in NOA than in the control group. (4) Conclusions: Altered microbial composition and functional pathways in the NOA group were revealed, which highlight the utility of gut microbiota in understanding microbiota-related pathogenesis of NOA and might be helpful to the clinical management of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalei Cao
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Haojie Wang
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zirun Jin
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jing Hang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Urology, Peking University First Hospital, Institute of Urology, Beijing 100034, China
- Correspondence: (H.J.); (H.W.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Huajun Wu
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100191, China
- Correspondence: (H.J.); (H.W.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Correspondence: (H.J.); (H.W.); (Z.Z.)
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8
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Rusevski A, Plaseska-Karanfilska D, Davalieva K. Proteomics of azoospermia: Towards the discovery of reliable markers for non-invasive diagnosis. Proteomics Clin Appl 2023; 17:e2200060. [PMID: 36177695 DOI: 10.1002/prca.202200060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Azoospermia, as the most severe form of male infertility, no longer indicates sterility due to modern medical advancements. The current diagnostic procedure based on testicular biopsy has several drawbacks which urges the development of novel, non-invasive diagnostic procedures based on biomarkers. In the last two decades, there have been many proteomics studies investigating potential azoospermia biomarkers. In this review, we aimed to provide a critical evaluation of these studies. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Published articles were gathered by systematic literature search using Pubmed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases until March 2022 and were further preselected to include only studies on human samples. RESULTS A detailed review of these studies encompassed the proteomics platforms, sources of material, proposed candidate biomarkers, and their potential diagnostic specificity and sensitivity. In addition, emphasis was put on the top, most identified and validated biomarker candidates and their potential for discriminating azoospermia types and subtypes as well as predicting sperm retrieval success rate. CONCLUSIONS Proteomics research of azoospermia has laid the groundwork for the development of a more streamlined biomarker testing. The future research should be focused on well-designed studies including samples from all types/subtypes as well as further testing of the most promising biomarkers identified so far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar Rusevski
- Research Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology "Georgi D Efremov", Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Skopje, North Macedonia
| | - Dijana Plaseska-Karanfilska
- Research Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology "Georgi D Efremov", Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Skopje, North Macedonia
| | - Katarina Davalieva
- Research Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology "Georgi D Efremov", Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Skopje, North Macedonia
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9
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Lucignani G, Jannello LMI, Fulgheri I, Silvani C, Turetti M, Gadda F, Viganò P, Somigliana E, Montanari E, Boeri L. Coenzyme Q10 and Melatonin for the Treatment of Male Infertility: A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2022; 14:4585. [PMID: 36364847 PMCID: PMC9658523 DOI: 10.3390/nu14214585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lifestyle and environmental factors can negatively impact fertility by means of oxidative stress. In this context, antioxidant supplementation therapy has gained much interest in recent years, and different molecules, alone or in combination, have been studied. OBJECTIVE The purpose of the present review is to investigate the evidence regarding the efficacy of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and melatonin on male infertility. METHODS A literature search using PUBMED database from 2000 to October 2022 was performed to explore the role of CoQ10 and melatonin on male reproductive function. CONCLUSIONS The analysis involved a narrative synthesis. CoQ10, alone or in combination, appears to reduce testicular oxidative stress and sperm DNA fragmentation and to improve sperm parameters; particularly sperm motility. Moreover, CoQ10 treatment is associated with higher pregnancy rates, both naturally and through assisted reproductive technology (ART). Larger studies are needed to precisely determine its clinical efficacy. Melatonin is a known antioxidant and preclinical studies have shown its ability to modulate reproductive function through hormonal and immune system regulation and sperm cell proliferation. Regardless, clinical studies are necessary to assess its potential in male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianpaolo Lucignani
- Department of Urology, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | | | - Irene Fulgheri
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Carlo Silvani
- Department of Urology, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Matteo Turetti
- Department of Urology, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Franco Gadda
- Department of Urology, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuele Montanari
- Department of Urology, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Boeri
- Department of Urology, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy
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10
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Santacroce L, Imbimbo C, Ballini A, Crocetto F, Scacco S, Cantore S, Di Zazzo E, Colella M, Jirillo E. Testicular Immunity and Its Connection with the Microbiota. Physiological and Clinical Implications in the Light of Personalized Medicine. J Pers Med 2022; 12:1335. [PMID: 36013286 PMCID: PMC9409709 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12081335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproduction is a complex process, which is based on the cooperation between the endocrine-immune system and the microbiota. Testicular immunity is characterized by the so-called immune privilege, a mechanism that avoids autoimmune attacks against proteins expressed by spermatozoa. Testicular microbiota is connected with the gut microbiota, the most prevalent site of commensals inthe body. Both microbiotas take part inthe development of the immune system and protection againstpathogen invasion. Dysbiosis is caused by concurrent pathologies, such as obesity, diabetes, infections and trauma. The substitution of beneficial bacteria with pathogens may lead to destruction of spermatozoa directly or indirectly and, ultimately, to male infertility. Novel therapeutic interventions, i.e., nutritional interventions and supplementation of natural products, such as, probiotics, prebiotics, antioxidants and polyphenols, may lead to the restoration of the otherwise-impaired male reproductive potential, even if experimental and clinical results are not always concordant. In this review, the structure and immune function of the testis will be described with special reference to the blood-testisbarrier. The regulatory role of both the gut and testicular microbiota will be illustrated in health and disease, also emphasizing therapeutic attempts with natural products for the correction of male infertility, in the era of personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Santacroce
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Ciro Imbimbo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Ballini
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Felice Crocetto
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore Scacco
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Stefania Cantore
- Independent Researcher, Sorriso & Benessere—Ricerca e Clinica, 70129 Bari, Italy
| | - Erika Di Zazzo
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Marica Colella
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Emilio Jirillo
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
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11
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Cai H, Cao X, Qin D, Liu Y, Liu Y, Hua J, Peng S. Gut microbiota supports male reproduction via nutrition, immunity, and signaling. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:977574. [PMID: 36060736 PMCID: PMC9434149 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.977574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota (GM) is a major component of the gastrointestinal tract. Growing evidence suggests that it has various effects on many distal organs including the male reproductive system in mammals. GM and testis form the gut-testis axis involving the production of key molecules through microbial metabolism or de novo synthesis. These molecules have nutrition, immunity, and hormone-related functions and promote the male reproductive system via the circulatory system. GM helps maintain the integral structure of testes and regulates testicular immunity to protect the spermatogenic environment. Factors damaging GM negatively impact male reproductive function, however, the related mechanism is unknown. Also, the correlation between GM and testis remains to be yet investigated. This review discusses the complex influence of GM on the male reproductive system highlighting the impact on male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Cai
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xuanhong Cao
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dezhe Qin
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular and Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yundie Liu
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jinlian Hua
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sha Peng
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
- *Correspondence: Sha Peng,
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12
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Aftab W, Lahiri S, Imhof A. ImShot: An Open-Source Software for Probabilistic Identification of Proteins In Situ and Visualization of Proteomics Data. Mol Cell Proteomics 2022; 21:100242. [PMID: 35569805 PMCID: PMC9194865 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2022.100242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) has developed into a powerful tool allowing label-free detection of numerous biomolecules in situ. In contrast to shotgun proteomics, proteins/peptides can be detected directly from biological tissues and correlated to its morphology leading to a gain of crucial clinical information. However, direct identification of the detected molecules is currently challenging for MALDI-IMS, thereby compelling researchers to use complementary techniques and resource intensive experimental setups. Despite these strategies, sufficient information could not be extracted because of lack of an optimum data combination strategy/software. Here, we introduce a new open-source software ImShot that aims at identifying peptides obtained in MALDI-IMS. This is achieved by combining information from IMS and shotgun proteomics (LC-MS) measurements of serial sections of the same tissue. The software takes advantage of a two-group comparison to determine the search space of IMS masses after deisotoping the corresponding spectra. Ambiguity in annotations of IMS peptides is eliminated by introduction of a novel scoring system that identifies the most likely parent protein of a detected peptide in the corresponding IMS dataset. Thanks to its modular structure, the software can also handle LC-MS data separately and display interactive enrichment plots and enriched Gene Ontology terms or cellular pathways. The software has been built as a desktop application with a conveniently designed graphic user interface to provide users with a seamless experience in data analysis. ImShot can run on all the three major desktop operating systems and is freely available under Massachusetts Institute of Technology license.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wasim Aftab
- Biomedical Center, Protein Analysis Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; Graduate School for Quantitative Biosciences (QBM), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Shibojyoti Lahiri
- Biomedical Center, Protein Analysis Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Axel Imhof
- Biomedical Center, Protein Analysis Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
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13
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Yang CX, Yang YW, Mou Q, Chen L, Wang C, Du ZQ. Proteomic changes induced by ascorbic acid treatment on porcine immature Sertoli cells. Theriogenology 2022; 188:13-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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14
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Kanbar M, Delwiche G, Wyns C. Fertility preservation for prepubertal boys: are we ready for autologous grafting of cryopreserved immature testicular tissue? ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2022; 83:210-217. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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15
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Zhang T, Sun P, Geng Q, Fan H, Gong Y, Hu Y, Shan L, Sun Y, Shen W, Zhou Y. Disrupted spermatogenesis in a metabolic syndrome model: the role of vitamin A metabolism in the gut-testis axis. Gut 2022; 71:78-87. [PMID: 33504491 PMCID: PMC8666830 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-323347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Effects of the diet-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis reach far beyond the gut. We aim to uncover the direct evidence involving the gut-testis axis in the aetiology of impaired spermatogenesis. DESIGN An excessive-energy diet-induced metabolic syndrome (MetS) sheep model was established. The testicular samples, host metabolomes and gut microbiome were analysed. Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) confirmed the linkage between gut microbiota and spermatogenesis. RESULTS We demonstrated that the number of arrested spermatogonia was markedly elevated by using 10× single-cell RNA-seq in the MetS model. Furthermore, through using metabolomics profiling and 16S rDNA-seq, we discovered that the absorption of vitamin A in the gut was abolished due to a notable reduction of bile acid levels, which was significantly associated with reduced abundance of Ruminococcaceae_NK4A214_group. Notably, the abnormal metabolic effects of vitamin A were transferable to the testicular cells through the circulating blood, which contributed to abnormal spermatogenesis, as confirmed by FMT. CONCLUSION These findings define a starting point for linking the testicular function and regulation of gut microbiota via host metabolomes and will be of potential value for the treatment of male infertility in MetS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation & Breeding of Grassland Livestock, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Peng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation & Breeding of Grassland Livestock, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Qi Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation & Breeding of Grassland Livestock, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Haitao Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation & Breeding of Grassland Livestock, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yutian Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation & Breeding of Grassland Livestock, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yanting Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation & Breeding of Grassland Livestock, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Liying Shan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation & Breeding of Grassland Livestock, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yuanchao Sun
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University and The Biomedical Sciences Institute of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation & Breeding of Grassland Livestock, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
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16
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Wang Y, Xie Z. Exploring the role of gut microbiome in male reproduction. Andrology 2021; 10:441-450. [PMID: 34918486 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of the gut microbiome on the organism has become a growing research focus with the development of 16S rRNA sequencing. However, the effect of the gut microbiome in male reproduction has yet to be investigated. OBJECTIVE To overview on possible mechanisms by which gut microbiome could affect male reproduction and therapeutic opportunities related to the gut microbiome METHODS: Authors searched PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library for medical subject headings terms and free text words referred to "male infertility" "testis" "gut microbiome" "insulin resistance" "erectile dysfunction" "therapy" "sex hormones" "Genital Diseases." until Dec 2nd 2021. RESULTS Evidence suggests that immune system activation caused by the gut microbiome translocation not only leads to testicular and epididymal inflammation but can also induce insulin resistance together with gastrointestinal hormones such as leptin and ghrelin, which in turn affects the secretion of various sex hormones such as LH, FSH, and T to regulate spermatogenesis. In addition, the gut microbiome can influence spermatogenesis by controlling and metabolizing androgens as well as affecting the blood-testis barrier. It also promotes vascular inflammation by raising trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) levels in the blood, which causes erectile dysfunction. Testicular microbiome and gut microbiome can interact to influence male reproductive function. This study discusses therapeutic options such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, as well as the challenges and opportunities behind ongoing research, and emphasizes the need for additional research in the future to demonstrate the links and underlying mechanisms between gut microbiome and male reproduction. Therapeutic options such as probiotic, prebiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation are potential treatments for male infertility. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Gut microbiota may have a causal role in male reproduction health, therapeutic strategies such as supplementation with appropriate probiotics could be undertaken as a complementary treatment. In the future, additional research is needed to demonstrate the links and underlying mechanisms between gut microbiome and male reproduction. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Second Clinical Medical School, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Zuogang Xie
- Wenzhou Hospital of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Affiliated to Zhejiang, University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Andrology, Zhejiang, 325000, China
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17
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Aging, inflammation and DNA damage in the somatic testicular niche with idiopathic germ cell aplasia. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5205. [PMID: 34471128 PMCID: PMC8410861 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25544-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms associated with human germ cell aplasia in infertile men remain undefined. Here we perform single-cell transcriptome profiling to highlight differentially expressed genes and pathways in each somatic cell type in testes of men with idiopathic germ cell aplasia. We identify immaturity of Leydig cells, chronic tissue inflammation, fibrosis, and senescence phenotype of the somatic cells, as well markers of chronic inflammation in the blood. We find that deregulated expression of parentally imprinted genes in myoid and immature Leydig cells, with relevant changes in the ratio of Lamin A/C transcripts and an active DNA damage response in Leydig and peritubular myoid cells are also indicative of senescence of the testicular niche. This study offers molecular insights into the pathogenesis of idiopathic germ cell aplasia. Molecular mechanisms associated with human germ cell aplasia in infertile men remain undefined. Here the authors perform single-cell transcriptome profiling to highlight differentially expressed genes and pathways in each somatic cell type in testes of men with idiopathic germ cell aplasia.
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18
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Martinez-Vidal L, Murdica V, Venegoni C, Pederzoli F, Bandini M, Necchi A, Salonia A, Alfano M. Causal contributors to tissue stiffness and clinical relevance in urology. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1011. [PMID: 34446834 PMCID: PMC8390675 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02539-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanomedicine is an emerging field focused on characterizing mechanical changes in cells and tissues coupled with a specific disease. Understanding the mechanical cues that drive disease progression, and whether tissue stiffening can precede disease development, is crucial in order to define new mechanical biomarkers to improve and develop diagnostic and prognostic tools. Classically known stromal regulators, such as fibroblasts, and more recently acknowledged factors such as the microbiome and extracellular vesicles, play a crucial role in modifications to the stroma and extracellular matrix (ECM). These modifications ultimately lead to an alteration of the mechanical properties (stiffness) of the tissue, contributing to disease onset and progression. We describe here classic and emerging mediators of ECM remodeling, and discuss state-of-the-art studies characterizing mechanical fingerprints of urological diseases, showing a general trend between increased tissue stiffness and severity of disease. Finally, we point to the clinical potential of tissue stiffness as a diagnostic and prognostic factor in the urological field, as well as a possible target for new innovative drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Martinez-Vidal
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy.
| | - Valentina Murdica
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Venegoni
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo Pederzoli
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Bandini
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Salonia
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Alfano
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
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Kong X, Ye Z, Chen Y, Zhao H, Tu J, Meng T, Xiong C, Li H, Gong Y, Zheng L, Cheng B, Zhang Z, Xu P. Clinical application value of Inhibin B alone or in combination with other hormone indicators in subfertile men with different spermatogenesis status: A study of 324 Chinese men. J Clin Lab Anal 2021; 35:e23882. [PMID: 34181290 PMCID: PMC8373365 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.23882] [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: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In this study, we investigated the clinical value of serum Inhibin B alone or in combination with other hormone indicators in subfertile men. Methods This is a multicenter study involving 324 men from different cities in China. Testicular volume, routine semen analysis, serum Inhibin B, anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH), follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, estradiol, and prolactin were measured. Testicular tissue samples were also analyzed in 78 of 129 patients with azoospermia to distinguish impaired spermatogenesis from obstructive azoospermia. Results The concentration of Inhibin B, FSH, and AMH is related to spermatogenesis. For men with impaired spermatogenesis, including mild‐to‐moderate oligozoospermia (IMO) and severe oligozoospermia (ISO), serum levels of Inhibin B and FSH are highly correlated with sperm counting. However, in patients with idiopathic moderate oligozoospermia or severe oligozoospermia, there was no significant correlation between Inhibin B (or FSH) and sperm concentration. The upper cutoff value of Inhibin B to diagnose ISO is 58.25 pg/ml with a predictive accuracy of 80.65%. To distinguish between nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) and obstructive azoospermia (OA), the area under the curve (AUC) for AMH + Inhibin B + FSH is very similar to Inhibin B (0.943 vs. 0.941). The cutoff level of Inhibin B to diagnose nonobstructive azoospermia is 45.9 pg/ml with a positive and negative prediction accuracy of 97.70% and 85.71%, respectively. Conclusion In summary, Inhibin B is a promising biomarker alone or in combination with other hormone indicators for the diagnosis of testicular spermatogenesis status, helping clinical doctors to distinguish NOA from OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangbin Kong
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhen Ye
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yaoping Chen
- The Reproductive Medicine Center, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Huan Zhao
- Department of Andrology, Jinghua Hospital of Shenyang, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Jian Tu
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, Hunan Yueyang Meternal and Children Health-Care Hospital, Yueyang, Hunan, China
| | - Tianqing Meng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei Province Human Sperm Bank, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chengliang Xiong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yijun Gong
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Autoimmune Laboratory Diagnostic Products, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Liang Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Autoimmune Laboratory Diagnostic Products, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Bangning Cheng
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Autoimmune Laboratory Diagnostic Products, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhijun Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Peng Xu
- Department of Andrology, Jinghua Hospital of Shenyang, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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Ventimiglia E, Pozzi E, Alfano M, Montorsi F, Salonia A. Re: Scott D. Lundy, Naseer Sangwan, Neel V. Parekh, et al. Functional and Taxonomic Dysbiosis of the Gut, Urine, and Semen Microbiomes in Male Infertility. Eur Urol 2021;79:826-36. Eur Urol 2021; 80:e53-e54. [PMID: 34024650 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2021.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Ventimiglia
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, Urological Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Edoardo Pozzi
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, Urological Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy; Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Alfano
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, Urological Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Montorsi
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, Urological Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy; Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Salonia
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, Urological Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy; Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy.
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Lahiri S, Aftab W, Walenta L, Strauss L, Poutanen M, Mayerhofer A, Imhof A. MALDI-IMS combined with shotgun proteomics identify and localize new factors in male infertility. Life Sci Alliance 2021; 4:4/3/e202000672. [PMID: 33408244 PMCID: PMC7812314 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202000672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In situ proteomics of male infertility. Spermatogenesis is a complex multi-step process involving intricate interactions between different cell types in the male testis. Disruption of these interactions results in infertility. Combination of shotgun tissue proteomics with MALDI imaging mass spectrometry is markedly potent in revealing topological maps of molecular processes within tissues. Here, we use a combinatorial approach on a characterized mouse model of hormone induced male infertility to uncover misregulated pathways. Comparative testicular proteome of wild-type and mice overexpressing human P450 aromatase (AROM+) with pathologically increased estrogen levels unravels gross dysregulation of spermatogenesis and emergence of pro-inflammatory pathways in AROM+ testis. In situ MS allowed us to localize misregulated proteins/peptides to defined regions within the testis. Results suggest that infertility is associated with substantial loss of proteomic heterogeneity, which define distinct stages of seminiferous tubuli in healthy animals. Importantly, considerable loss of mitochondrial factors, proteins associated with late stages of spermatogenesis and steroidogenic factors characterize AROM+ mice. Thus, the novel proteomic approach pinpoints in unprecedented ways the disruption of normal processes in testis and provides a signature for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shibojyoti Lahiri
- Biomedical Center, Protein Analysis Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Wasim Aftab
- Biomedical Center, Protein Analysis Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.,Graduate School for Quantitative Biosciences (QBM), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Lena Walenta
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology-Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Leena Strauss
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Matti Poutanen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology-Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Axel Imhof
- Biomedical Center, Protein Analysis Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
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Liu L, Li F, Wen Z, Li T, Lv M, Zhao X, Zhang W, Liu J, Wang L, Ma X. Preliminary investigation of the function of hsa_circ_0049356 in nonobstructive azoospermia patients. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13814. [PMID: 32894622 DOI: 10.1111/and.13814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA), which is considered the most severe form of male infertility, has placed a heavy burden on families and society. As vital regulators of transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels, Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are closely related to all the pathophysiological processes involved in infertility in males, especially spermatogenesis. Our study explored the expression levels of circ_0049356 in both the whole blood and seminal plasma samples of idiopathic NOA patients via quantitative real-time PCR. Furthermore, the relative expression of its host gene (CARM1) was also determined using the same methods. In addition, as circRNAs have been demonstrated to regulate gene expression as miRNAs sponge, we predicted a total of five miRNAs and 101 mRNAs as putative downstream targets and constructed a circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network. Based on the predictions, Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway analyses were performed for further bioinformatics analysis to explore the potential function and investigate the circ_0049356-miRNA-mRNA interactions. Our results show target mRNAs that have been predicted to regulate guanyl-nucleotide exchange factor activity to mediate the GTP/GDP exchange, and downstream targets possibly involved in the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, which play a significant role in cytoskeleton rearrangement of germ cells during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Liu
- The Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
| | | | - Zhen Wen
- Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Tao Li
- Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Meng Lv
- Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Zhao
- The Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- The Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jing Liu
- The Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
| | - Liyan Wang
- The Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaoling Ma
- The Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
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23
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Arora H. Can proteomic analysis help us understand the molecular events in men with idiopathic germ cell aplasia? Fertil Steril 2019; 111:671. [PMID: 30871761 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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