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Kamp-Jensen C, Donslund LN, Styrishave B, Jensen RH, Westgate CSJ. Exposure to topiramate and acetazolamide causes endocrine disrupting effects in female rats during estrus. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 486:116919. [PMID: 38580201 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.116919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a disease characterized by elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) and is a disease of young females. The first line pharmacological treatments include acetazolamide and topiramate and given the nature of IIH patients and the dosing regimen of these drugs, their effect on the endocrine system is important to evaluate. We aimed to assess the effects of acetazolamide and topiramate on steroid profiles in relevant endocrine tissues. METHODS Female Sprague Dawley rats received chronic clinically equivalent doses of acetazolamide or topiramate by oral gavage and were sacrificed in estrus. Tissue specific steroid profiles of lateral ventricle CP, 4th ventricle CP, CSF, serum, uterine horn and fundus, ovaries, adrenal glands and pituitary glands were assessed by quantitative targeted LC-MS/MS. We determined luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormones (FSH) levels in paired serum by ELISA. RESULTS Topiramate increased the concentration of estradiol and decreased the concentration of DHEA in lateral choroid plexus. Moreover, it decreased the concentration of androstenediol in the pituitary gland. Topiramate increased serum LH. Acetazolamide decreased progesterone levels in serum and uterine fundus and increased corticosteroid levels in the adrenal glands. CONCLUSION These results demonstrate that both acetazolamide and topiramate have endocrine disrupting effects in rats. Topiramate primarily targeted the choroid plexus and the pituitary gland while acetazolamide had broader systemic effects. Furthermore, topiramate predominantly targeted sex hormones, whereas acetazolamide widely affected all classes of hormones. A similar effect in humans has not yet been documented but these concerning findings warrants further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Kamp-Jensen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Glostrup Research Institute, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Translational Research Centre, Rigshospitalet, Denmark.
| | - Louise Norgil Donslund
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Glostrup Research Institute, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Translational Research Centre, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Bjarne Styrishave
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark..
| | - Rigmor Højland Jensen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Glostrup Research Institute, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Translational Research Centre, Rigshospitalet, Denmark.
| | - Connar Stanley James Westgate
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Glostrup Research Institute, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Translational Research Centre, Rigshospitalet, Denmark.
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Fujikura M, Fujinoki M. Progesterone and estradiol regulate sperm hyperactivation and in vitro fertilization success in mice. J Reprod Dev 2024; 70:96-103. [PMID: 38346725 PMCID: PMC11017098 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2023-080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Progesterone (P) and 17β-estradiol (Eβ) form the well-known hormone pair that regulates sperm capacitation. Here, we examined the regulatory effects of P and Eβ on sperm hyperactivation in mice and evaluated the in vitro fertilization (IVF) success. Although P enhanced hyperactivation, Eβ dose-dependently suppressed the P-enhanced hyperactivation. Moreover, P increased IVF success, whereas Eβ suppressed the P-induced increase in IVF success in a dose-dependent manner. Thus, P and Eβ competitively regulate hyperactivation and IVF success in mice. Since P and Eβ concentrations generally change during the estrous cycle, sperm are speculated to capacitate in response to the oviductal environment and fertilize the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miyu Fujikura
- Research Laboratory of Laboratory Animals, Research Center for Laboratory Animals, Comprehensive Research Facilities for Advanced Medical Science, School of Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
| | - Masakatsu Fujinoki
- Research Laboratory of Laboratory Animals, Research Center for Laboratory Animals, Comprehensive Research Facilities for Advanced Medical Science, School of Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
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3
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Yang Y, Mei G, Yang L, Luo T, Wu R, Peng S, Peng Z, Cui J, Cheng Y. PCB126 impairs human sperm functions by affecting post-translational modifications and mitochondrial functions. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 346:140532. [PMID: 37918541 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, there has been a consistent decline in semen quality across the globe, with environmental pollution being identified as the primary cause. Among the various contaminants present in the environment, persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have garnered significant attention due to their high toxicity, slow degradation, bio-accumulation, and long-range migration. PCBs, which include 210 congeners, are a crucial type of POPs that are known to have harmful effects on the environment and human health. Among the various PCB congeners, 3,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB126) is a typical environmental endocrine-disrupting chemical that is widely distributed and has been associated with several health hazards. However, the impact and mechanism of PCB126 on human sperm function has not been fully elucidated. We aimed to investigate the effects of different concentrations of PCB126 (0.01, 0.1, 1, 10 μg/mL) on sperm motility, viability, hyperactivation, and acrosome reaction after incubation for different periods (1 and 2 h), delving deeper into the molecular mechanism of human sperm dysfunction caused by PCB126. First, we investigated the link between PCB126 treatment and the occurrence of protein modifications that are critical to sperm function regulation, such as tyrosine phosphorylation and lysine glutarylation. Second, we examined the potential impact of PCB126 on different parameters related to mitochondrial function, including reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondria respiration and adenosine triphosphate generation. Our findings indicate that exposure to environmental pollutants such as PCB126 in vitro may have a negative impact on human sperm functions by interfering with post-translational modifications and mitochondrial functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yebin Yang
- College of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, Yichun University, Yichun, China
| | - Guangquan Mei
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Natural Active Pharmaceutical Constituents, Department of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Yichun University, Yichun, China; Key Laboratory of Jiangxi University for Applied Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Yichun University, Yichun, China
| | - Liu Yang
- College of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, Yichun University, Yichun, China
| | - Tao Luo
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Runwen Wu
- Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Yichun University, Yichun, China
| | - Shenglin Peng
- Yichun People's Hospital, Jiangxi Province, Yichun, China
| | - Zhen Peng
- Yichun People's Hospital, Jiangxi Province, Yichun, China
| | - Jiajun Cui
- Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Yichun University, Yichun, China
| | - Yimin Cheng
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Natural Active Pharmaceutical Constituents, Department of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Yichun University, Yichun, China; Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Yichun University, Yichun, China.
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Hu Y, Zhang R, Zhang S, Ji Y, Zhou Q, Leng L, Meng F, Gong F, Lu G, Lin G, Hu L. Transcriptomic profiles reveal the characteristics of oocytes and cumulus cells at GV, MI, and MII in follicles before ovulation. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:225. [PMID: 37993893 PMCID: PMC10664256 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01291-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The oocyte and its surrounding cumulus cells (CCs) exist as an inseparable entity. The maturation of the oocyte relies on communication between the oocyte and the surrounding CCs. However, oocyte evaluation is primarily based on morphological parameters currently, which offer limited insight into the quality and competence of the oocyte. Here, we conducted transcriptomic profiling of oocytes and their CCs from 47 patients undergoing preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). We aimed to investigate the molecular events occurring between oocytes and CCs at different stages of oocyte maturation (germinal vesicle [GV], metaphase I [MI], and metaphase II [MII]). Our goal is to provide new insights into in vitro oocyte maturation (IVM). RESULTS Our findings indicate that oocyte maturation is a complex and dynamic process and that MI oocytes can be further classified into two distinct subtypes: GV-like-MI oocytes and MII-like-MI oocytes. Human oocytes and cumulus cells at three different stages of maturation were analyzed using RNA-seq, which revealed unique transcriptional machinery, stage-specific genes and pathways, and transcription factor networks that displayed developmental stage-specific expression patterns. We have also identified that both lipid and cholesterol metabolism in cumulus cells is active during the late stage of oocyte maturation. Lipids may serve as a more efficient energy source for oocytes and even embryogenesis. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our study provides a relatively comprehensive overview of the transcriptional characteristics and potential interactions between human oocytes and cumulus cells at various stages of maturation before ovulation. This study may offer novel perspectives on IVM and provide a reliable reference data set for understanding the transcriptional regulation of follicular maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yena Hu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Ran Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Shuoping Zhang
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Yaxing Ji
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Qinwei Zhou
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Lizhi Leng
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Development and Carcinogenesis, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Fei Meng
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Fei Gong
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Guangxiu Lu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Ge Lin
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Development and Carcinogenesis, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| | - Liang Hu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Development and Carcinogenesis, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, ChangshaHunan, 410013, China.
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Miyazawa Y, Fujinoki M. Enhancement of rat spermatozoal hyperactivation by progesterone. J Reprod Dev 2023; 69:279-290. [PMID: 37690839 PMCID: PMC10602764 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2023-040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Progesterone (P) is a well-known enhancer of hyperactivation which is associated with the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF). In this study, we examined whether P-enhanced hyperactivation affected IVF success in rats. When rat spermatozoa were exposed to 10, 20, and 40 ng/ml P, 20 ng/ml P enhanced hyperactivation via the membrane progesterone receptor. In addition, the enhancement of hyperactivation by 20 ng/ml P was regulated by phospholipase C, transmembrane adenylate cyclase, and protein kinase A. However, 20 ng/ml P did not affect IVF success. These results suggest that 20 ng/ml P enhances rat spermatozoal hyperactivation through non-genomic pathways. Because the concentration of P changes during the estrous cycle, it seems that rat spermatozoa are hyperactivated in response to the oviductal environment. However, the effect of 20 ng/ml P does not seem to fully capacitate spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Miyazawa
- Research Laboratory of Laboratory Animals, Research Center for Laboratory Animals, Comprehensive Research Facilities for Advanced Medical Science, School of Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
| | - Masakatsu Fujinoki
- Research Laboratory of Laboratory Animals, Research Center for Laboratory Animals, Comprehensive Research Facilities for Advanced Medical Science, School of Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
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6
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Lin VHC, Chien A, Chien EJ. The rapid activation of cPKCβII by progesterone results in the negative regulation of Ca 2+ influx in human resting T cells. J Chin Med Assoc 2023; 86:885-891. [PMID: 37496123 DOI: 10.1097/jcma.0000000000000970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Progesterone-stimulated rapid suppression of phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-activated sustained membrane Ca 2+ influx is revealed by Mn 2+ quenching fura-2 fluorescence. Ca 2+ influx suppression results in immunosuppression of T-cell proliferation. Downregulation of protein kinase C (PKC) activity by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) enhances the PHA-activated increase in sustained intracellular Ca 2+ concentration ([Ca 2+ ] i ) via Ca 2+ influx in T cells. Conventional PKC (cPKC) inhibitors also enhance the [Ca 2+ ] i increase in resting T cells caused by progesterone. This study explores whether cPKC activation by progesterone results in suppression of Ca 2+ influx in resting T cells. METHODS Progesterone, its analogs (R5020/Org OD 02-0), and plasma membrane-impermeable progesterone-bovine serum albumin conjugate were used to stimulate human resting T cells. Inhibitors and PKC downregulation by PMA were used to investigate whether cPKC affects Ca 2+ influx. RESULTS Progesterone and analogs dose-dependently suppressed Ca 2+ influx in T cells. One cPKC inhibitor, Ro318220, attenuated Ca 2+ influx suppression, and enhanced the increase in [Ca 2+ ] i caused by progesterone and analogs. U73122 did not affect Ca 2+ influx suppression but did decrease the [Ca 2+ ] i increase. Ca 2+ influx suppression was not attenuated by the cPKCα/βI isoform-selective inhibitor, Go6976, nevertheless, a cPKCβI/βII isoform-selective inhibitor, LY333531 did. Ca 2+ influx suppression was attenuated by the cPKCβII-specific inhibitor CGP53353. After PKC downregulated by PMA, Ca 2+ influx suppression by progesterone and analogs was almost abolished in parallel with a massive reduction in cPKCβII expression. This suggests cPKCβII activation by progesterone and analogs mediate Ca 2+ influx suppression in resting T cells. CONCLUSION Nongenomic membrane activation of cPKCβII by progesterone causes immunosuppression via negative regulation of Ca 2+ influx into human resting T cells. This prevents resting T-cell activation and proliferation, which protects the fetus from maternal immune attack while decreasing maternal autoimmune disease flare-ups during pregnancy. Thus, cPKCβII modulators might provide a new therapeutic approach to balancing T-cell tolerance and immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Hui-Chen Lin
- Department and Institute of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Angela Chien
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Health Technology, Ming Chuan University, Taoyuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Eileen Jea Chien
- Department and Institute of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
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7
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Traini G, Tamburrino L, Ragosta ME, Guarnieri G, Morelli A, Vignozzi L, Baldi E, Marchiani S. Effects of Benzo[a]pyrene on Human Sperm Functions: An In Vitro Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14411. [PMID: 37833859 PMCID: PMC10572991 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) is considered one of the most dangerous air pollutants for adverse health effects, including reproductive toxicity. It is found both in male and female reproductive fluids likely affecting spermatozoa after the selection process through cervical mucus, a process mimicked in vitro with the swim-up procedure. In vitro effects of BaP (1, 5, 10 µM) were evaluated both in unselected and swim-up selected spermatozoa after 3 and 24 h of incubation. BaP reduced total, progressive and hyperactivated motility and migration in a viscous medium both in swim-up selected and unselected spermatozoa. Viability was not significantly affected in swim-up selected but was reduced in unselected spermatozoa. In swim-up selected spermatozoa, increases in the percentage of spontaneous acrosome reaction and DNA fragmentation were observed after 24 h of incubation, whereas no differences between the control and BaP-treated samples were observed in caspase-3 and -7 activity, indicating no effects on apoptotic pathways. ROS species, evaluated by staining with CellROX® Orange and Dihydroethidium, did not differ in viable spermatozoa after BaP treatment. Conversely, the percentage of unviable ROS-positive spermatozoa increased. Our study suggests that BaP present in male and female genital fluids may heavily affect reproductive functions of human spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Traini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (G.T.); (L.V.)
| | - Lara Tamburrino
- Andrology, Women’s Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Maria Emanuela Ragosta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (M.E.R.); (G.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Giulia Guarnieri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (M.E.R.); (G.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Annamaria Morelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (M.E.R.); (G.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (G.T.); (L.V.)
- Andrology, Women’s Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Andrology, Women’s Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy;
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (M.E.R.); (G.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Sara Marchiani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (G.T.); (L.V.)
- Andrology, Women’s Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy;
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Yang L, Mei G, Yang Y, Cui J, Peng S, Peng Z, Cheng Y. Hexachlorocyclohexane impairs human sperm motility by affecting lysine glutarylation and mitochondrial functions. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 179:113991. [PMID: 37595880 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Decreased sperm motility is a leading cause of male infertility and persistent organic pollutants are known to contribute significantly to the development of this disease. The effects of organochlorine pesticides such as hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) on human sperm function and their mechanisms of action have received much attention, but are still not fully understood. Herein, we discovered that HCH has a concentration- and time-dependent inhibitory effect on human sperm motility in vitro. Moreover, HCH could reduce the levels of lysine glutarylation (Kglu) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity in sperm. Meanwhile, HCH could increase reactive oxygen species and thereby lead to mitochondrial depolarization and the down-regulation of adenosine triphosphate levels. In particular, we observed that sodium glutarate (Na-glu), the precursor of glutaryl-CoA, could alleviate the inhibitory effect of HCH on sperm Kglu levels, whereas the ROS scavenger N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) had no effect. Intriguingly, both Na-glu and NAC were able to partially inhibit the HCH-induced increase in sperm ROS levels and impaired sperm motility. In conclusion, we propose that HCH inhibits sperm Kglu, leading to the disruption of mitochondrial energy metabolism, which in turn adversely affects sperm motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Yang
- Key Laboratory of Jiangxi University for Applied Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Yichun University, Yichun, China
| | - Guangquan Mei
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Natural Active Pharmaceutical Constituents, Department of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Yichun University, Yichun, China; Key Laboratory of Jiangxi University for Applied Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Yichun University, Yichun, China
| | - Yebin Yang
- College of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, Yichun University, Yichun, China
| | - Jiajun Cui
- Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Yichun University, Yichun, China
| | - Shenglin Peng
- Yichun People's Hospital, Jiangxi Province, Yichun, China
| | - Zhen Peng
- Yichun People's Hospital, Jiangxi Province, Yichun, China
| | - Yimin Cheng
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Natural Active Pharmaceutical Constituents, Department of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Yichun University, Yichun, China; Institute of Molecular Rhythm and Metabolism, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Yichun University, Yichun, China.
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9
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De Toni L, Cosci I, Sabovic I, Di Nisio A, Guidolin D, Pedrucci F, Finocchi F, Dall'Acqua S, Foresta C, Ferlin A, Garolla A. Membrane Cholesterol Inhibits Progesterone-Mediated Sperm Function through the Possible Involvement of ABHD2. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119254. [PMID: 37298205 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Abhydrolase domain containing 2-acylglycerol lipase (ABHD2) was recently claimed as the membrane receptor of progesterone (P4) in sperm cells, mediating cell processes such as sperm chemotaxis and acrosome reaction. Here, we investigated the role of membrane cholesterol (Chol) on ABHD2-mediated human sperm chemotaxis. Human sperm cells were obtained from twelve normozoospemic healthy donors. ABHD2-Chol interaction was modelled by computational molecular-modelling (MM). Sperm membrane Chol content was depleted by incubating cells with cyclodextrin (CD) or augmented by the incubation with the complex between CD and Chol (CD:Chol). Cell Chol levels were quantified by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Sperm migration upon P4 gradient was evaluated through the accumulation assay in a specific migration device. Motility parameters were evaluated by sperm class analyzer, whilst intracellular calcium concentration, acrosome reaction and mitochondrial membrane potential were evaluated with calcium orange, FITC-conjugated anti-CD46 antibody and JC-1 fluorescent probes, respectively. MM analysis showed the possible stable binding Chol to ABHD2, resulting in to major impact on the protein backbone flexibility. The treatment with CD was associated with a dose-dependent increase in sperm migration in a 160 nM P4 gradient, together with increase in sperm motility parameters and levels of acrosome reaction. The treatment with CD:Chol was associated with essentially opposite effects. Chol was, thus, suggested to inhibit P4-mediated sperm function through the possible inhibition of ABHD2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca De Toni
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Ilaria Cosci
- Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Iva Sabovic
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Di Nisio
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Diego Guidolin
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Anatomy, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Federica Pedrucci
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Federica Finocchi
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Dall'Acqua
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Carlo Foresta
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Garolla
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
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10
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A New Gene SCY3 Homologous to Scygonadin Showing Antibacterial Activity and a Potential Role in the Sperm Acrosome Reaction of Scylla paramamosain. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065689. [PMID: 36982761 PMCID: PMC10053787 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In the study, a new gene homologous to the known antimicrobial peptide Scygonadin was identified in mud crab Scylla paramamosain and named SCY3. The full-length sequences of cDNA and genomic DNA were determined. Similar to Scygonadin, SCY3 was dominantly expressed in the ejaculatory ducts of male crab and the spermatheca of post-mating females at mating. The mRNA expression was significantly up-regulated after stimulation by Vibrio alginolyticus, but not by Staphylococcus aureus. The recombinant protein rSCY3 had a killing effect on Micrococcus luteus and could improve the survival rate of mud crabs infected with V. alginolyticus. Further analysis showed that rSCY3 interacted with rSCY1 or rSCY2 using Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR, a technology for detecting interactions between biomolecules using biosensor chips) and Mammalian Two-Hybrid (M2H, a way of detecting interactions between proteins in vivo). Moreover, the rSCY3 could significantly improve the sperm acrosome reaction (AR) of S. paramamosain and the results demonstrated that the binding of rSCY3, rSCY4, and rSCY5 to progesterone was a potential factor affecting the sperm AR by SCYs on. This study lays the foundation for further investigation on the molecular mechanism of SCYs involved in both immunity and physiological effects of S. paramamosain.
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11
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Cryopreservation of Human Spermatozoa: Functional, Molecular and Clinical Aspects. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054656. [PMID: 36902084 PMCID: PMC10002855 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation is an expanding strategy to allow not only fertility preservation for individuals who need such procedures because of gonadotoxic treatments, active duty in dangerous occupations or social reasons and gamete donation for couples where conception is denied, but also for animal breeding and preservation of endangered animal species. Despite the improvement in semen cryopreservation techniques and the worldwide expansion of semen banks, damage to spermatozoa and the consequent impairment of its functions still remain unsolved problems, conditioning the choice of the technique in assisted reproduction procedures. Although many studies have attempted to find solutions to limit sperm damage following cryopreservation and identify possible markers of damage susceptibility, active research in this field is still required in order to optimize the process. Here, we review the available evidence regarding structural, molecular and functional damage occurring in cryopreserved human spermatozoa and the possible strategies to prevent it and optimize the procedures. Finally, we review the results on assisted reproduction technique (ARTs) outcomes following the use of cryopreserved spermatozoa.
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12
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Yang X, Cao JF, Chen S, Xiong L, Zhang L, Wu M, Wang C, Xu H, Chen Y, Yang S, Zhong L, Wei X, Xiao Z, Gong Y, Li Y, Zhang X. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation study the mechanism of progesterone in the treatment of spinal cord injury. Steroids 2022; 188:109131. [PMID: 36273543 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2022.109131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Spinal cord injury can lead to incomplete or complete loss of voluntary movement and sensory function, leading to serious complications. Numerous studies have shown that progesterone exhibits strong therapeutic potential for spinal cord injury. However, the mechanism by which progesterone treats spinal cord injury remains unclear. Therefore, this article explores the mechanism of progesterone in the treatment of spinal cord injury by means of molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. METHODS We used bioinformatics to screen active pharmaceutical ingredients and potential targets, and molecular docking and molecular dynamics were used to validate and analysis by the supercomputer platform. RESULTS Progesterone had 3606 gene targets, spinal cord injury had 6560 gene targets, the intersection gene targets were 2355. GO and KEGG analysis showed that the abundant pathways involved multiple pathways related to cell metabolism and inflammation. Molecular docking showed that progesterone played a role in treating spinal cord injury by acting on BDNF, AR, NGF and TNF. Molecular dynamics was used to prove and analyzed the binding stability of active ingredients and protein targets, and AR/Progesterone combination has the strongest binding energy. CONCLUSION Progesterone promotes recovery from spinal cord injury by promoting axonal regeneration, remyelination, neuronal survival and reducing inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyu Yang
- Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Jun-Feng Cao
- Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Shengyan Chen
- Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Xiong
- Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | | | - Mei Wu
- Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Chaochao Wang
- Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Hengxiang Xu
- Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Yijun Chen
- Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Siqi Yang
- Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Zhong
- Center for Experimental Technology of Preclinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoliang Wei
- Center for Experimental Technology of Preclinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Zixuan Xiao
- Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunli Gong
- Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang Li
- Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Center for Experimental Technology of Preclinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
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13
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Assessment of sperm motility in livestock: Perspectives based on sperm swimming conditions in vivo. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:106849. [PMID: 34556397 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Evaluation of sperm motility is well-established in farm animals for quickly selecting ejaculates for semen processing into insemination doses and for evaluating the quality of preserved semen. Likewise, sperm motility is a fundamental parameter used by spermatologists in basic and applied science. Motility is commonly assessed using computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA). Recent increases in computational power, as well as utilization of mobile CASA systems and open-source CASA programs, broaden the possibilities for motility evaluation. Despite this technological progress, the potential of computer-generated motility data to assess male fertility remains challenging and may be limited. Relevance for fertility assessment could be improved if measurement conditions would more closely mimic the in vivo situation. Hence, this review is focused on the current trends of automated semen assessment in livestock and explores perspectives for future use with respect to the physiological and physical conditions encountered by sperm in the female reproductive tract. Validation of current CASA systems with more complex, microfluidic-based devices mimicking the female reproductive tract environment could improve the value of sperm kinematic data for assessing the fertilizing capacity of semen samples, not only for application in livestock but also for use in conducting assisted reproduction techniques in other species.
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14
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Shaia KL, Harris BS, Selter JH, Price TM. Reproductive Functions of the Mitochondrial Progesterone Receptor (PR-M). Reprod Sci 2022; 30:1443-1452. [PMID: 36255658 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01092-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Classic transcriptional regulation by progesterone via the nuclear progesterone receptors A and B (PR-A, PR-B) has been recognized for decades. Less attention has been given to a mitochondrial progesterone receptor (PR-M) responsible for non-nuclear activities. PR-M is derived from the progesterone receptor (PR) gene from an alternate promoter with the cDNA encoding a unique 5' membrane binding domain followed by the same hinge and hormone-binding domain of the nPR. The protein binds to the mitochondrial outer membrane and functions to increase cellular respiration via increased beta-oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation with resulting adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. Physiologic activities of PR-M have been studied in cardiac function, spermatozoa activation, and myometrial growth, all known to respond to progesterone. Progesterone via PR-M increases cardiomyocyte cellular respiration to meet the metabolic demands of pregnancy with increased contractility. Consequential gene changes associated with PR-M activation include production of proteins for sarcomere development and for fatty acid oxidation. Regarding spermatozoa function, progesterone via PR-M increases cellular energy production necessary for progesterone-dependent hyperactivation. A role of progesterone in myometrial and leiomyomata growth may also be explained by the increase in necessary cellular energy for proliferation. Lastly, the multi-organ increase in cellular respiration may contribute to the progesterone-dependent increase in metabolic rate reflected by an increase in body temperature through compensatory non-shivering thermogenesis. An evolutionary comparison shows PR-M expressed in humans, apes, and Old World monkeys, but the necessary gene sequence is absent in New World monkeys and lower species. The evolutionary advantage to PR-M remains to be defined, but its presence may enhance catabolism to support the extended gestation and brain development found in these primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn L Shaia
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Benjamin S Harris
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jessica H Selter
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Thomas M Price
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
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15
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Hyperactivation is sufficient to release porcine sperm from immobilized oviduct glycans. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6446. [PMID: 35440797 PMCID: PMC9019019 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10390-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertilizing sperm are retained by adhesion to specific glycans on the epithelium of the oviduct forming a reservoir before sperm are released from the reservoir so fertilization can ensue. Capacitated sperm lose affinity for the oviduct epithelium but the components of capacitation that are important for sperm release are uncertain. One important correlate of capacitation is the development of hyperactivated motility. Hyperactivation is characterized by asymmetrical flagellar beating with high beat amplitude. We tested whether the development of full-type asymmetrical motility was sufficient to release sperm from immobilized oviduct glycans. Sperm hyperactivation was induced by four different compounds, a cell-permeable cAMP analog (cBiMPS), CatSper activators (4-aminopyridine and procaine), and an endogenous steroid (progesterone). Using standard analysis (CASA) and direct visualization with high-speed video microscopy, we first confirmed that all four compounds induced hyperactivation. Subsequently, sperm were allowed to bind to immobilized oviduct glycans, and compounds or vehicle controls were added. All compounds caused sperm release from immobilized glycans, demonstrating that hyperactivation was sufficient to release sperm from oviduct cells and immobilized glycans. Pharmacological inhibition of the non-genomic progesterone receptor and CatSper diminished sperm release from oviduct glycans. Inhibition of the proteolytic activities of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), implicated in the regulation of sperm capacitation, diminished sperm release in response to all hyperactivation inducers. In summary, induction of sperm hyperactivation was sufficient to induce sperm release from immobilized oviduct glycans and release was dependent on CatSper and the UPS.
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16
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Yanagimachi R. Mysteries and unsolved problems of mammalian fertilization and related topics. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:644-675. [PMID: 35292804 PMCID: PMC9040664 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization is a fascinating process that leads to the formation of a new individual. Eggs and sperm are complex cells that must meet at the appropriate time and position within the female reproductive tract for successful fertilization. I have been studying various aspects of mammalian fertilization over 60 years. In this review, I discuss many different aspects of mammalian fertilization, some of my laboratory's contribution to the field, and discuss enigmas and mysteries that remain to be solved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuzo Yanagimachi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, University of Hawaii Medical School, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
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17
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Qin H, Zheng L, Fang Y, Liu Y, Liu A, Wu J, Zhu F, Chen J, Fan Y, Hu W. Pharmacokinetics, safety and bioequivalence of two formulations of progesterone soft capsule in healthy Chinese postmenopausal females: Impacts of a high-fat meal. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2021; 130:268-276. [PMID: 34806331 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone is an important natural hormone regulating ovulation and menstruation. The present study aimed to investigate the pharmacokinetics and safety of two formulations of progesterone in Chinese postmenopausal females under fasting and fed conditions. The study adopted a single-dose, open-label, randomized, three-period bioequivalence design. A total of 96 subjects were enrolled and randomly assigned to the fasting cohort or fed cohort. A high-fat meal (890 kcal) was used in the fed study. The reference-scaled average bioequivalence method was used for bioequivalence evaluation. A high-fat meal led to a 22-fold higher peak concentration (Cmax ) and a 7-fold higher area under the curve (AUC) while time to reach Cmax and half-life was not significantly affected. The concentration-time curve displayed double peaks suggesting the existence of enterohepatic circulation. The test/reference geometric mean ratios for Cmax and AUC under fasting and fed conditions are all within the range of 80% to 125%. All adverse events (AEs) that occurred during the trial were mild and did not cause drop-out, though these AEs occurred more frequently under fed state. In conclusion, the two formulations of progesterone are bioequivalent in Chinese subjects under fasting and fed conditions. Drug label modification regarding food effects needs further discussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiling Qin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Liang Zheng
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yueyue Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Anding Liu
- Department of Bioanalysis, Shanghai Xihua Scientific Co. Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Jinlian Wu
- Research and Development Center, Zhejiang Medicine Co. Ltd., Zhejiang, China
| | - Fengjia Zhu
- Research and Development Center, Zhejiang Medicine Co. Ltd., Zhejiang, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Research and Development Center, Zhejiang Medicine Co. Ltd., Zhejiang, China
| | - Yijun Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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Keyser S, van der Horst G, Maree L. Progesterone, Myo-Inositol, Dopamine and Prolactin Present in Follicular Fluid Have Differential Effects on Sperm Motility Subpopulations. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:1250. [PMID: 34833125 PMCID: PMC8617736 DOI: 10.3390/life11111250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Considering the challenges surrounding causative factors in male infertility, rather than relying on standard semen analysis, the assessment of sperm subpopulations and functional characteristics essential for fertilization is paramount. Furthermore, the diagnostic value of sperm interactions with biological components in the female reproductive tract may improve our understanding of subfertility and provide applications in assisted reproductive techniques. We investigated the response of two sperm motility subpopulations (mimicking the functionality of potentially fertile and sub-fertile semen samples) to biological substances present in the female reproductive tract. Donor semen was separated via double density gradient centrifugation, isolated into high (HM) and low motile (LM) sperm subpopulations and incubated in human tubal fluid (HTF), capacitating HTF, HD-C medium, progesterone, myo-inositol, dopamine and prolactin. Treated subpopulations were evaluated for vitality, motility percentages and kinematic parameters, hyperactivation, positive reactive oxygen species (ROS), intact mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and acrosome reaction (AR). While all media had a significantly positive effect on the LM subpopulation, dopamine appeared to significantly improve both subpopulations' functional characteristics. HD-C, progesterone and myo-inositol resulted in increased motility, kinematic and hyperactivation parameters, whereas prolactin and myo-inositol improved the LM subpopulations' MMP intactness and reduced ROS. Furthermore, progesterone, myo-inositol and dopamine improved the HM subpopulations' motility parameters and AR. Our results suggest that treatment of sub-fertile semen samples with biological substances present in follicular fluid might assist the development of new strategies for IVF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Liana Maree
- Comparative Spermatology Laboratory, Department of Medical Bioscience, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa; (S.K.); (G.v.d.H.)
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19
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Medina-Laver Y, Rodríguez-Varela C, Salsano S, Labarta E, Domínguez F. What Do We Know about Classical and Non-Classical Progesterone Receptors in the Human Female Reproductive Tract? A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11278. [PMID: 34681937 PMCID: PMC8538361 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The progesterone hormone regulates the human menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and parturition by its action via the different progesterone receptors and signaling pathways in the female reproductive tract. Progesterone actions can be exerted through classical and non-classical receptors, or even a combination of both. The former are nuclear receptors whose activation leads to transcriptional activity regulation and thus in turn leads to slower but long-lasting responses. The latter are composed of progesterone receptors membrane components (PGRMC) and membrane progestin receptors (mPRs). These receptors rapidly activate the appropriate intracellular signal transduction pathways, and they can subsequently initiate specific cell responses or even modulate genomic cell responses. This review covers our current knowledge on the mechanisms of action and the relevance of classical and non-classical progesterone receptors in female reproductive tissues ranging from the ovary and uterus to the cervix, and it exposes their crucial role in female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yassmin Medina-Laver
- IVI Foundation—IIS La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (Y.M.-L.); (C.R.-V.); (S.S.); (E.L.)
| | | | - Stefania Salsano
- IVI Foundation—IIS La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (Y.M.-L.); (C.R.-V.); (S.S.); (E.L.)
| | - Elena Labarta
- IVI Foundation—IIS La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (Y.M.-L.); (C.R.-V.); (S.S.); (E.L.)
- IVI RMA Valencia, 46015 Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco Domínguez
- IVI Foundation—IIS La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (Y.M.-L.); (C.R.-V.); (S.S.); (E.L.)
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20
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Jeschke JK, Biagioni C, Schierling T, Wagner IV, Börgel F, Schepmann D, Schüring A, Kulle AE, Holterhus PM, von Wolff M, Wünsch B, Nordhoff V, Strünker T, Brenker C. The Action of Reproductive Fluids and Contained Steroids, Prostaglandins, and Zn 2+ on CatSper Ca 2+ Channels in Human Sperm. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:699554. [PMID: 34381781 PMCID: PMC8350739 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.699554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The sperm-specific Ca2+ channel CatSper registers chemical cues that assist human sperm to fertilize the egg. Prime examples are progesterone and prostaglandin E1 that activate CatSper without involving classical nuclear and G protein-coupled receptors, respectively. Here, we study the action of seminal and follicular fluid as well of the contained individual prostaglandins and steroids on the intracellular Ca2+ concentration of sperm from donors and CATSPER2-deficient patients that lack functional CatSper channels. We show that any of the reproductive steroids and prostaglandins evokes a rapid Ca2+ increase that invariably rests on Ca2+ influx via CatSper. The hormones compete for the same steroid- and prostaglandin-binding site to activate the channel, respectively. Analysis of the hormones’ structure–activity relationship highlights their unique pharmacology in sperm and the chemical features determining their effective properties. Finally, we show that Zn2+ suppresses the action of steroids and prostaglandins on CatSper, which might prevent premature prostaglandin activation of CatSper in the ejaculate, aiding sperm to escape from the ejaculate into the female genital tract. Altogether, our findings reinforce that human CatSper serves as a promiscuous chemosensor that enables sperm to probe the varying hormonal microenvironment prevailing at different stages during their journey across the female genital tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice K Jeschke
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Cristina Biagioni
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Tobias Schierling
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Isabel Viola Wagner
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Lübeck, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Frederik Börgel
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Dirk Schepmann
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Andreas Schüring
- UKM Kinderwunschzentrum, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Alexandra E Kulle
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Pediatrics, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Paul Martin Holterhus
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Pediatrics, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Michael von Wolff
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Bernhard Wünsch
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Verena Nordhoff
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Timo Strünker
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,Cells in Motion Interfaculty Centre, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Christoph Brenker
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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21
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Jiang F, Zhu Y, Chen Y, Tang X, Liu L, Chen G, Liu Y, Sun X. Progesterone activates the cyclic AMP-protein kinase A signalling pathway by upregulating ABHD2 in fertile men. J Int Med Res 2021; 49:300060521999527. [PMID: 33752482 PMCID: PMC7995462 DOI: 10.1177/0300060521999527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This was a prospective study to investigate whether progesterone affects sperm activity by regulating the cyclic AMP-protein kinase A (cAMP-PKA) signalling pathway via α/β hydrolase domain-containing protein 2 (ABHD2). Methods Spermatozoa were collected from healthy and infertile men (with oligoasthenospermia or abnormal acrosome; n = 30/group). The expression of and mutations in ABHD2 were detected by quantitative PCR, western blot, and gene sequencing. The expression of ABHD2 in the presence of progesterone was detected in all groups, and cAMP and PKA levels were detected by ELISA in fertile men after treatment with ABHD2 antibody and PKA inhibitor H-89, respectively. Results Expression of ABHD2 mRNA and protein were reduced in spermatozoa from infertile compared with fertile men. Four gene mutation sites were detected in spermatozoa from the infertile groups. Progesterone increased mRNA and protein levels of ABHD2 in healthy spermatozoa but not in spermatozoa from infertile men. The levels of cAMP and PKA were increased by progesterone in healthy spermatozoa, and the progesterone-increased cAMP and PKA were decreased by ABHD2 antibody and H-89, respectively. Conclusion Progesterone regulates the ABHD2-mediated cAMP-PKA signalling pathway in healthy spermatozoa, which provides a new target for clinical diagnosis and treatment of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Jiang
- Shanghai JIAI Genetics & IVF Institute-China USA Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Zhu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Shanghai JIAI Genetics & IVF Institute-China USA Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaofeng Tang
- Shanghai JIAI Genetics & IVF Institute-China USA Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Liu Liu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guowu Chen
- Shanghai JIAI Genetics & IVF Institute-China USA Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yulin Liu
- Shanghai JIAI Genetics & IVF Institute-China USA Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoxi Sun
- Shanghai JIAI Genetics & IVF Institute-China USA Center, Shanghai, China.,Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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