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Yi M, Asgenbaatar N, Wang X, Ulaangerel T, Shen Y, Wen X, Du M, Dong X, Dugarjav M, Bou G. Different expression patterns of DNA methyltransferases during horse testis development. Gene 2024; 920:148531. [PMID: 38705424 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) are important epigenetic modification during spermatogenesis. To further evaluate the pattern of DNMTs in horse testes during development, we investigated the expression and localization of DNMT1, DNMT3a and DNMT3b at different time points. The qRT-PCR results showed that DNMT1 expression was maintained in testes tissue from 6-month-old (0.5y) to 2-year-old (2y) of age and decreased after 3-year-old (3y) (P < 0.01). The expression levels of DNMT3a and DNMT3b peaked in testes tissue at 3y (P < 0.01). At 4-year-old (4y), the expression of DNMT3a and DNMT3b was decreased and became similar to that at 0.5y. Immunofluorescence of DNMT1, DNMT3a and DNMT3b on testis samples confirmed the differential expression and localization of these three DNA methylation transferases during horse development. Further molecular biological studies are needed to understand the implications of the expression patterns of these DNMTs in horse testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna Yi
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Nairag Asgenbaatar
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China; Da Bei Nong group rumination technology rumination acadamy Haidian District, Beijing, China
| | - Xisheng Wang
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Tseweendolmaa Ulaangerel
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yingchao Shen
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xin Wen
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Ming Du
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xiaoling Dong
- Da Bei Nong group rumination technology rumination acadamy Haidian District, Beijing, China; China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Manglai Dugarjav
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China.
| | - Gerelchimeg Bou
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China.
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Zhang WY, Xue MQ, Tang Y, Wang T, Wang XZ, Zhang JJ. AMPK regulates immature boar Sertoli cell proliferation through affecting CDK4/Cyclin D3 pathway and mitochondrial function. Theriogenology 2024; 224:9-18. [PMID: 38714024 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.05.004] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Sertoli cell (SC) proliferation plays an important role in sperm production and quality; however, the regulatory mechanism of SC proliferation is not well understood. This study investigated the role of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in the regulation of immature boar SC activity. Cell counting kit-8, Seahorse XFe96, mitochondrial respiratory enzyme-related assay kits, and transmission electron microscopy were used to detect SC proliferative viability, oxygen consumption rate (OCR), mitochondrial respiratory enzyme activity, and the ultrastructure of primary cultured SCs in vitro from the testes of 21-day-old boars. A dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to determine the miRNA-mRNA target interaction. Western blotting was used to analyze cell proliferation-related protein expression of p38, p21, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), Cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), Cyclin D3, and phosphorylated retinoblastoma protein (Rb). Each experiment had a completely randomized design, with three replicates in each experiment. The results showed that the AMPK inhibitor (Compound C, 20 μM-24 h) increased cell proliferation viability, ATP production, and maximal respiration of SCs by 0.64-, 0.12-, and 0.08-fold (p < 0.05), respectively; increased the SC protein expression of PCNA, CDK4, Cyclin D3, and p-Rb by 0.13-, 0.09-, 0.88-, and 0.12-fold (p < 0.05), respectively; and decreased the SC protein expression of p38 and p21 by 0.36- and 0.27-fold (p < 0.05), respectively. The AMPK agonist AICAR (2 mM-6 h) significantly inhibited SC ultrastructure, OCR, mitochondrial respiratory enzyme activity, and cell proliferation-related protein levels. AMPK was validated to be a target gene of miR-1285 based on the result in which the miR-1285 mimic inhibited the luciferase activity of wild-type AMPK by 0.54-fold (p < 0.001). MiR-1285 mimic promoted the OCR of SCs, with 0.45-, 0.15-, 0.21-, and 0.30-fold (p < 0.01) increases in ATP production, basal and maximal respiration, and spare capacity, respectively. MiR-1285 mimic increased the mitochondrial respiratory enzyme activity of SCs, with 0.63-, 0.70-, and 0.97-fold (p < 0.01) increases in NADH-Q oxidoreductase, cytochrome c oxidase, and ATP synthase, respectively. Moreover, the miR-1285 mimic increased the protein expression of PCNA, CDK4, Cyclin D3, and p-Rb by 0.24-, 0.30-, 0.22-, and 0.13-fold (p < 0.05), respectively, and reduced the protein expression of p38 and p21 by 0.58- and 0.66-fold (p < 0.001). MiR-1285 inhibitor showed opposite effects on the above indicators and induced numerous autophagosomes and large lipid droplets in SCs. A high dose of estradiol (10 μM-6 h, showed a promotion of AMPK activation in a previous study) significantly inhibited SC ultrastructure, mitochondrial function, and proliferation-related pathways, while these adverse effects were weakened by Compound C treatment or miR-1285 mimic transfection. Our findings suggest that the activation and inhibition of AMPK induced by specific drugs or synthesized targeted miRNA fragments could regulate immature boar SC proliferative activity by influencing the CDK4/Cyclin D3 pathway and mitochondrial function; this helps to provide a basis for the prevention and treatment of male sterility in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Yu Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Meng Qing Xue
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Yao Tang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Tao Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Xian Zhong Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Jiao Jiao Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China.
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Zhang G, Sun Y, Guan M, Liu M, Sun S. Single-cell and spatial transcriptomic investigation reveals the spatiotemporal specificity of the beta-defensin gene family during mouse sperm maturation. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:267. [PMID: 38745232 PMCID: PMC11092205 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01637-3] [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: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Low sperm motility is a significant contributor to male infertility. beta-defensins have been implicated in host defence and the acquisition of sperm motility; however, the regulatory mechanisms governing their gene expression patterns and functions remain poorly understood. In this study, we performed single-cell RNA and spatial transcriptome sequencing to investigate the cellular composition of testicular and epididymal tissues and examined their gene expression characteristics. In the epididymis, we found that epididymal epithelial cells display a region specificity of gene expression in different epididymal segments, including the beta-defensin family genes. In particular, Defb15, Defb18, Defb20, Defb25 and Defb48 are specific to the caput; Defb22, Defb23 and Defb26 to the corpus; Defb2 and Defb9 to the cauda of the epididymis. To confirm this, we performed mRNA fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) targeting certain exon region of beta-defensin genes, and found some of their expression matched the sequencing results and displayed a close connection with epididimosome marker gene Cd63. In addition, we paid attention to the Sertoli cells and Leydig cells in the testis, along with fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells in the epididymis, by demonstrating their gene expression profile and spatial information. Our study provides a single-cell and spatial landscape for analysing the gene expression characteristics of testicular and epididymal environments and has important implications for the study of spermatogenesis and sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuanchao Sun
- Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Minkai Guan
- Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | | | - Shiduo Sun
- Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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Gao J, Xu Z, Song W, Huang J, Liu W, He Z, He L. USP11 regulates proliferation and apoptosis of human spermatogonial stem cells via HOXC5-mediated canonical WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:211. [PMID: 38722330 PMCID: PMC11082041 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05248-6] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are capable of transmitting genetic information to the next generations and they are the initial cells for spermatogenesis. Nevertheless, it remains largely unknown about key genes and signaling pathways that regulate fate determinations of human SSCs and male infertility. In this study, we explored the expression, function, and mechanism of USP11 in controlling the proliferation and apoptosis of human SSCs as well as the association between its abnormality and azoospermia. We found that USP11 was predominantly expressed in human SSCs as shown by database analysis and immunohistochemistry. USP11 silencing led to decreases in proliferation and DNA synthesis and an enhancement in apoptosis of human SSCs. RNA-sequencing identified HOXC5 as a target of USP11 in human SSCs. Double immunofluorescence, Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), and molecular docking demonstrated an interaction between USP11 and HOXC5 in human SSCs. HOXC5 knockdown suppressed the growth of human SSCs and increased apoptosis via the classical WNT/β-catenin pathway. In contrast, HOXC5 overexpression reversed the effect of proliferation and apoptosis induced by USP11 silencing. Significantly, lower levels of USP11 expression were observed in the testicular tissues of patients with spermatogenic disorders. Collectively, these results implicate that USP11 regulates the fate decisions of human SSCs through the HOXC5/WNT/β-catenin pathway. This study thus provides novel insights into understanding molecular mechanisms underlying human spermatogenesis and the etiology of azoospermia and it offers new targets for gene therapy of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Gao
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhipeng Xu
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weijie Song
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiwei Huang
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, China
| | - Zuping He
- Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.
| | - Leye He
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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Lv S, Huang J, Luo Y, Wen Y, Chen B, Qiu H, Chen H, Yue T, He L, Feng B, Yu Z, Zhao M, Yang Q, He M, Xiao W, Zou X, Gu C, Lu R. Gut microbiota is involved in male reproductive function: a review. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1371667. [PMID: 38765683 PMCID: PMC11099273 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1371667] [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: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, ~8%-12% of couples confront infertility issues, male-related issues being accountable for 50%. This review focuses on the influence of gut microbiota and their metabolites on the male reproductive system from five perspectives: sperm quality, testicular structure, sex hormones, sexual behavior, and probiotic supplementation. To improve sperm quality, gut microbiota can secrete metabolites by themselves or regulate host metabolites. Endotoxemia is a key factor in testicular structure damage that causes orchitis and disrupts the blood-testis barrier (BTB). In addition, the gut microbiota can regulate sex hormone levels by participating in the synthesis of sex hormone-related enzymes directly and participating in the enterohepatic circulation of sex hormones, and affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-testis (HPT) axis. They can also activate areas of the brain that control sexual arousal and behavior through metabolites. Probiotic supplementation can improve male reproductive function. Therefore, the gut microbiota may affect male reproductive function and behavior; however, further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms underlying microbiota-mediated male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuya Lv
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jingrong Huang
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yadan Luo
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yuhang Wen
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Baoting Chen
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Hao Qiu
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Huanxin Chen
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Suining First People's Hospital, Suining, China
| | - Tianhao Yue
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Lvqin He
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Baochun Feng
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Suining First People's Hospital, Suining, China
| | - Zehui Yu
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Mingde Zhao
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Manli He
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Wudian Xiao
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxia Zou
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Suining First People's Hospital, Suining, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Congwei Gu
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruilin Lu
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Suining First People's Hospital, Suining, China
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Zhang Q, Jin H, Long S, Tang X, Li J, Liu W, Han W, Liao H, Fu T, Huang G, Chen S, Lin T. Deletion of ACTRT1 is associated with male infertility as sperm acrosomal ultrastructural defects and fertilization failure in human. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:880-891. [PMID: 38414365 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae031] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Could actin-related protein T1 (ACTRT1) deficiency be a potential pathogenic factor of human male infertility? SUMMARY ANSWER A 110-kb microdeletion of the X chromosome, only including the ACTRT1 gene, was identified as responsible for infertility in two Chinese males with sperm showing acrosomal ultrastructural defects and fertilization failure. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The actin-related proteins (e.g. ACTRT1, ACTRT2, ACTL7A, and ACTL9) interact with each other to form a multimeric complex in the subacrosomal region of spermatids, which is crucial for the acrosome-nucleus junction. Actrt1-knockout (KO) mice are severely subfertile owing to malformed sperm heads with detached acrosomes and partial fertilization failure. There are currently no reports on the association between ACTRT1 deletion and male infertility in humans. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We recruited a cohort of 120 infertile males with sperm head deformations at a large tertiary hospital from August 2019 to August 2023. Genomic DNA extracted from the affected individuals underwent whole exome sequencing (WES), and in silico analyses were performed to identify genetic variants. Morphological analysis, functional assays, and ART were performed in 2022 and 2023. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The ACTRT1 deficiency was identified by WES and confirmed by whole genome sequencing, PCR, and quantitative PCR. Genomic DNA of all family members was collected to define the hereditary mode. Papanicolaou staining and electronic microscopy were performed to reveal sperm morphological changes. Western blotting and immunostaining were performed to explore the pathological mechanism of ACTRT1 deficiency. ICSI combined with artificial oocyte activation (AOA) was applied for one proband. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We identified a whole-gene deletion variant of ACTRT1 in two infertile males, which was inherited from their mothers, respectively. The probands exhibited sperm head deformations owing to acrosomal detachment, which is consistent with our previous observations on Actrt1-KO mice. Decreased expression and ectopic distribution of ACTL7A and phospholipase C zeta were observed in sperm samples from the probands. ICSI combined with AOA effectively solved the fertilization problem in Actrt1-KO mice and in one of the two probands. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Additional cases are needed to further confirm the genetic contribution of ACTRT1 variants to male infertility. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results reveal a gene-disease relation between the ACTRT1 deletion described here and human male infertility owing to acrosomal detachment and fertilization failure. This report also describes a good reproductive outcome of ART with ICSI-AOA for a proband. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the Chongqing medical scientific research project (Joint project of Chongqing Health Commission and Science and Technology Bureau, 2023MSXM008 and 2023MSXM054). There are no competing interests to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Huijuan Jin
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Shunhua Long
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiangrong Tang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiaxun Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Weiwei Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Han
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Haiyuan Liao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Tao Fu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Guoning Huang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Suren Chen
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Lin
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
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7
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Liu R, Yang C, Yang X, Yu J, Tang W. Network toxicology, molecular docking technology, and experimental verification revealed the mechanism of cantharidin-induced testicular injury in mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 486:116921. [PMID: 38582374 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.116921] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
As a protein kinase inhibitor, cantharidin (CTD) exhibits antitumor activities. However, CTD is highly toxic, thereby limiting clinical applications. Moreover, relatively few studies have investigated CTD-induced reproductive toxicity, thus the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, the toxic effects of CTD on mouse testis were confirmed in vivo and the potential mechanism was predicted by network toxicology (NT) and molecular docking technology. Proteins involved in the signaling pathways and core targets were verified. The results showed that different concentrations of CTD induced weight loss increased the testicular coefficient, and caused obvious pathological damage to testicular cells. The NT results showed that the main targets of CTD-induced testicular injury (TI) included AKT1, Caspase 3, Bcl-2, and Bax. The results of pathway enrichment analysis showed that CTD-induced TI was closely related to apoptosis and the PI3K/AKT and HIF-1 signaling pathways. Molecular docking methods confirmed high affinity between CTD and key targets. Western blot analysis showed that CTD inhibited expression of PI3K, AKT, and the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, while promoting expression of the pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and Caspase 3. These results suggest that CTD-induced TI involves multiple targets and pathways, and the underlying mechanism was associated with inhibition of the apoptosis-related PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxia Liu
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Changfu Yang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Jia Yu
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Wenchao Tang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China.
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8
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Chang T, Tang H, Zhou X, He J, Liu N, Li Y, Xiang W, Yao Z. A novel homozygous nonsense variant of AK7 is associated with multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103765. [PMID: 38492416 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103765] [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: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Is the novel homozygous nonsense variant of AK7 associated with multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella (MMAF), a specific type of oligoasthenoteratozoospermia leading to male infertility? DESIGN Whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing were performed to identify potential gene variants. Immunoblotting and immunofluorescence were applied to confirm the relationship between mutated genes and disease phenotypes. The concentration of reactive oxygen species and the rate of apoptosis were measured to evaluate the mitochondrial function of spermatozoa. Transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were employed to observe sperm ultrastructure. RESULTS A novel homozygous nonsense variant of AK7, c.1153A>T (p. Lys385*), was identified in two infertile siblings with asthenoteratozoospermia through whole-exome sequencing. Both immunoblotting and immunofluorescence assays showed practically complete absence of AK7 in the patient's spermatozoa. Additionally, the individual with the novel AK7 variant exhibited a phenotype characterized by severe oxidative stress and apoptosis caused by mitochondrial metabolic dysfunction of spermatozoa. Notably, remarkable flagellar defects with multiple axonemes in uniflagellate spermatozoa, accompanied by mitochondrial vacuolization, were observed; this has not been reported previously in patients with other AK7 variants. CONCLUSIONS This study found that a novel identified homozygous nonsense variant of AK7 may be associated with MMAF-related asthenoteratozoospermia. The observed functional associations between mitochondria and sperm flagellar assembly provide evidence for potential mutual regulation between AK7 and flagella-associated proteins during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianli Chang
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hongying Tang
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xu Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jingliang He
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Nenghui Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yanping Li
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhongyuan Yao
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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9
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Dai P, Ma C, Chen C, Liang M, Dong S, Chen H, Zhang X. Unlocking Genetic Mysteries during the Epic Sperm Journey toward Fertilization: Further Expanding Cre Mouse Lines. Biomolecules 2024; 14:529. [PMID: 38785936 PMCID: PMC11117649 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The spatiotemporal expression patterns of genes are crucial for maintaining normal physiological functions in animals. Conditional gene knockout using the cyclization recombination enzyme (Cre)/locus of crossover of P1 (Cre/LoxP) strategy has been extensively employed for functional assays at specific tissue or developmental stages. This approach aids in uncovering the associations between phenotypes and gene regulation while minimizing interference among distinct tissues. Various Cre-engineered mouse models have been utilized in the male reproductive system, including Dppa3-MERCre for primordial germ cells, Ddx4-Cre and Stra8-Cre for spermatogonia, Prm1-Cre and Acrv1-iCre for haploid spermatids, Cyp17a1-iCre for the Leydig cell, Sox9-Cre for the Sertoli cell, and Lcn5/8/9-Cre for differentiated segments of the epididymis. Notably, the specificity and functioning stage of Cre recombinases vary, and the efficiency of recombination driven by Cre depends on endogenous promoters with different sequences as well as the constructed Cre vectors, even when controlled by an identical promoter. Cre mouse models generated via traditional recombination or CRISPR/Cas9 also exhibit distinct knockout properties. This review focuses on Cre-engineered mouse models applied to the male reproductive system, including Cre-targeting strategies, mouse model screening, and practical challenges encountered, particularly with novel mouse strains over the past decade. It aims to provide valuable references for studies conducted on the male reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xiaoning Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (P.D.); (C.M.); (C.C.); (M.L.); (S.D.); (H.C.)
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10
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Liu Y, Du M, Li X, Zhang L, Zhao B, Wang N, Dugarjaviin M. Single-Cell Transcriptome Sequencing Reveals Molecular Expression Differences and Marker Genes in Testes during the Sexual Maturation of Mongolian Horses. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1258. [PMID: 38731262 PMCID: PMC11082968 DOI: 10.3390/ani14091258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate differences in testicular tissue morphology, gene expression, and marker genes between sexually immature (1-year-old) and sexually mature (10-year-old) Mongolian horses. The purposes of our research were to provide insights into the reproductive physiology of male Mongolian horses and to identify potential markers for sexual maturity. The methods we applied included the transcriptomic profiling of testicular cells using single-cell sequencing techniques. Our results revealed significant differences in tissue morphology and gene expression patterns between the two age groups. Specifically, 25 cell clusters and 10 cell types were identified, including spermatogonial and somatic cells. Differential gene expression analysis highlighted distinct patterns related to cellular infrastructure in sexually immature horses and spermatogenesis in sexually mature horses. Marker genes specific to each stage were also identified, including APOA1, AMH, TAC3, INHA, SPARC, and SOX9 for the sexually immature stage, and PRM1, PRM2, LOC100051500, PRSS37, HMGB4, and H1-9 for the sexually mature stage. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of testicular development and spermatogenesis in Mongolian horses and have potential applications in equine reproductive biology and breeding programs. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying sexual maturity in Mongolian horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Ming Du
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Bilig Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Na Wang
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Manglai Dugarjaviin
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
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11
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Silvestris E, D’Oronzo S, Petracca EA, D’Addario C, Cormio G, Loizzi V, Canosa S, Corrado G. Fertility Preservation in the Era of Immuno-Oncology: Lights and Shadows. J Pers Med 2024; 14:431. [PMID: 38673058 PMCID: PMC11050999 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14040431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, immuno-oncology has revolutionized the cancer treatment field by harnessing the immune system's power to counteract cancer cells. While this innovative approach holds great promise for improving cancer outcomes, it also raises important considerations related to fertility and reproductive toxicity. In fact, most young females receiving gonadotoxic anti-cancer treatments undergo iatrogenic ovarian exhaustion, resulting in a permanent illness that precludes the vocation of motherhood as a natural female sexual identity. Although commonly used, oocyte cryopreservation for future in vitro fertilization and even ovarian cortex transplantation are considered unsafe procedures in cancer patients due to their oncogenic risks; whereas, ovarian stem cells might support neo-oogenesis, providing a novel stemness model of regenerative medicine for future fertility preservation programs in oncology. Recent scientific evidence has postulated that immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) might in some way reduce fertility by inducing either primary or secondary hypogonadism, whose incidence and mechanisms are not yet known. Therefore, considering the lack of data, it is currently not possible to define the most suitable FP procedure for young patients who are candidates for ICIs. In this report, we will investigate the few available data concerning the molecular regulation of ICI therapy and their resulting gonadal toxicity, to hypothesize the most suitable fertility preservation strategy for patients receiving these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Stella D’Oronzo
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
- Division of Medical Oncology, A.O.U. Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Easter Anna Petracca
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Claudia D’Addario
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
- Division of Medical Oncology, A.O.U. Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Vera Loizzi
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Stefano Canosa
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Giacomo Corrado
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, Department of Woman, Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00136 Roma, Italy;
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12
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Wang Z, Li T, Liu D, Li M, Liu S, Yu X, Li H, Song H, Zhao W, Liu Z, Chen X, Lu G, Chen ZJ, Huang T, Liu H. The deubiquitinase cofactor UAF1 interacts with USP1 and plays an essential role in spermiogenesis. iScience 2024; 27:109456. [PMID: 38591005 PMCID: PMC10999478 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Spermiogenesis defines the final phase of male germ cell differentiation. While multiple deubiquitinating enzymes have been linked to spermiogenesis, the impacts of deubiquitination on spermiogenesis remain poorly characterized. Here, we investigated the function of UAF1 in mouse spermiogenesis. We selectively deleted Uaf1 in premeiotic germ cells using the Stra8-Cre knock-in mouse strain (Uaf1 sKO), and found that Uaf1 is essential for spermiogenesis and male fertility. Further, UAF1 interacts and colocalizes with USP1 in the testes. Conditional knockout of Uaf1 in testes results in disturbed protein levels and localization of USP1, suggesting that UAF1 regulates spermiogenesis through the function of the deubiquitinating enzyme USP1. Using tandem mass tag-based proteomics, we identified that conditional knockout of Uaf1 in the testes results in reduced levels of proteins that are essential for spermiogenesis. Thus, we conclude that the UAF1/USP1 deubiquitinase complex is essential for normal spermiogenesis by regulating the levels of spermiogenesis-related proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Tongtong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Dongkai Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Mengjing Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Shangming Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Xiaochen Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Hanzhen Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Hui Song
- Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of the Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Science, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of the Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Science, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Zhaojian Liu
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiangfeng Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Gang Lu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hongbin Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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13
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Safrai M, Orwig KE. Utilizing artificial intelligence in academic writing: an in-depth evaluation of a scientific review on fertility preservation written by ChatGPT-4. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024:10.1007/s10815-024-03089-7. [PMID: 38619763 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03089-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the ability of ChatGPT-4 to generate a biomedical review article on fertility preservation. METHODS ChatGPT-4 was prompted to create an outline for a review on fertility preservation in men and prepubertal boys. The outline provided by ChatGPT-4 was subsequently used to prompt ChatGPT-4 to write the different parts of the review and provide five references for each section. The different parts of the article and the references provided were combined to create a single scientific review that was evaluated by the authors, who are experts in fertility preservation. The experts assessed the article and the references for accuracy and checked for plagiarism using online tools. In addition, both experts independently scored the relevance, depth, and currentness of the ChatGPT-4's article using a scoring matrix ranging from 0 to 5 where higher scores indicate higher quality. RESULTS ChatGPT-4 successfully generated a relevant scientific article with references. Among 27 statements needing citations, four were inaccurate. Of 25 references, 36% were accurate, 48% had correct titles but other errors, and 16% were completely fabricated. Plagiarism was minimal (mean = 3%). Experts rated the article's relevance highly (5/5) but gave lower scores for depth (2-3/5) and currentness (3/5). CONCLUSION ChatGPT-4 can produce a scientific review on fertility preservation with minimal plagiarism. While precise in content, it showed factual and contextual inaccuracies and inconsistent reference reliability. These issues limit ChatGPT-4 as a sole tool for scientific writing but suggest its potential as an aid in the writing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Safrai
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center (Tel Hashomer), Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 52621, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
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14
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Mohammadi A, Shabani R, Bashiri Z, Rafiei S, Asgari H, Koruji M. Therapeutic potential of exosomes in spermatogenesis regulation and male infertility. Biol Cell 2024:e2300127. [PMID: 38593304 DOI: 10.1111/boc.202300127] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis is a fundamental process crucial for male reproductive health and fertility. Exosomes, small membranous vesicles released by various cell types, have recently garnered attention for their role in intercellular communication. OBJECTIVE This review aims to comprehensively explore the role of exosomes in regulating spermatogenesis, focusing on their involvement in testicular development and cell-to-cell communication. METHODS A systematic examination of literature was conducted to gather relevant studies elucidating the biogenesis, composition, and functions of exosomes in the context of spermatogenesis. RESULTS Exosomes play a pivotal role in orchestrating the complex signaling networks required for proper spermatogenesis. They facilitate the transfer of key regulatory molecules between different cell populations within the testes, including Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and germ cells. CONCLUSION The emerging understanding of exosome-mediated communication sheds light on novel mechanisms underlying spermatogenesis regulation. Further research in this area holds promise for insights into male reproductive health and potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Mohammadi
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ronak Shabani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Bashiri
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Omid Fertility & Infertility Clinic, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Sara Rafiei
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Asgari
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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15
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Córdova-Oriz I, Polonio AM, Cuadrado-Torroglosa I, Chico-Sordo L, Medrano M, García-Velasco JA, Varela E. Chromosome ends and the theory of marginotomy: implications for reproduction. Biogerontology 2024; 25:227-248. [PMID: 37943366 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-023-10071-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Telomeres are the protective structures located at the ends of linear chromosomes. They were first described in the 1930s, but their biology remained unexplored until the early 70s, when Alexey M. Olovnikov, a theoretical biologist, suggested that telomeres cannot be fully copied during DNA replication. He proposed a theory that linked this phenomenon with the limit of cell proliferation capacity and the "duration of life" (theory of marginotomy), and suggested a potential of telomere lenghthening for the prevention of aging (anti-marginotomy). The impact of proliferative telomere shortening on life expectancy was later confirmed. In humans, telomere shortening is counteracted by telomerase, an enzyme that is undetectable in most adult somatic cells, but present in cancer cells and adult and embryonic stem and germ cells. Although telomere length dynamics are different in male and female gametes during gametogenesis, telomere lengths are reset at the blastocyst stage, setting the initial length of the species. The role of the telomere pathway in reproduction has been explored for years, mainly because of increased infertility resulting from delayed childbearing. Short telomere length in ovarian somatic cells is associated to decreased fertility and higher aneuploidy rates in embryos. Consequently, there is a growing interest in telomere lengthening strategies, aimed at improving fertility. It has also been observed that lifestyle factors can affect telomere length and improve fertility outcomes. In this review, we discuss the implications of telomere theory in fertility, especially in oocytes, spermatozoa, and embryos, as well as therapies to enhance reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Córdova-Oriz
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Alba M Polonio
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Isabel Cuadrado-Torroglosa
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Lucía Chico-Sordo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Medrano
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan A García-Velasco
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Edificio Departamental II, Rey Juan Carlos University, Av. de Atenas, s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Varela
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain.
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Edificio Departamental II, Rey Juan Carlos University, Av. de Atenas, s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.
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16
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Liu YL, Liu JY, Zhu XX, Wei JH, Mi SL, Liu SY, Li XL, Zhang WW, Zhao LL, Wang H, Xu DX, Gao L. Pubertal exposure to Microcystin-LR arrests spermatogonia proliferation by inducing DSB and inhibiting SIRT6 dependent DNA repair in vivo and in vitro. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 274:116191. [PMID: 38460408 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116191] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
The reproduction toxicity of pubertal exposure to Microcystin-LR (MC-LR) and the underlying mechanism needs to be further investigated. In the current study, pubertal male ICR mice were intraperitoneally injected with 2 μg/kg MC-LR for four weeks. Pubertal exposure to MC-LR decreased epididymal sperm concentration and blocked spermatogonia proliferation. In-vitro studies found MC-LR inhibited cell proliferation of GC-1 cells and arrested cell cycle in G2/M phase. Mechanistically, MC-LR exposure evoked excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induced DNA double-strand break in GC-1 cells. Besides, MC-LR inhibited DNA repair by reducing PolyADP-ribosylation (PARylation) activity of PARP1. Further study found MC-LR caused proteasomal degradation of SIRT6, a monoADP-ribosylation enzyme which is essential for PARP1 PARylation activity, due to destruction of SIRT6-USP10 interaction. Additionally, MG132 pretreatment alleviated MC-LR-induced SIRT6 degradation and promoted DNA repair, leading to the restoration of cell proliferation inhibition. Correspondingly, N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) pre-treatment mitigated the disturbed SIRT6-USP10 interaction and SIRT6 degradation, causing recovered DNA repair and subsequently restoration of cell proliferation inhibition in MC-LR treated GC-1 cells. Together, pubertal exposure to MC-LR induced spermatogonia cell cycle arrest and sperm count reduction by oxidative DNA damage and simultaneous SIRT6-mediated DNA repair failing. This study reports the effect of pubertal exposure to MC-LR on spermatogenesis and complex mechanism how MC-LR induces spermatogonia cell proliferation inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Lin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jia-Yu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xin-Xin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jian-Hua Wei
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Shuang-Ling Mi
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Su-Ya Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xiu-Liang Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Wei-Wei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Ling-Li Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - De-Xiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Lan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Research Center for Translational Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China.
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17
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Bhattacharya I, Sharma SS, Majumdar SS. Etiology of Male Infertility: an Update. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:942-965. [PMID: 38036863 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01401-x] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process of germ cell division and differentiation that involves extensive cross-talk between the developing germ cells and the somatic testicular cells. Defective endocrine signaling and/or intrinsic defects within the testes can adversely affect spermatogenic progression, leading to subfertility/infertility. In recent years, male infertility has been recognized as a global public health concern, and research over the last few decades has elucidated the complex etiology of male infertility. Congenital reproductive abnormalities, genetic mutations, and endocrine/metabolic dysfunction have been demonstrated to be involved in infertility/subfertility in males. Furthermore, acquired factors like exposure to environmental toxicants and lifestyle-related disorders such as illicit use of psychoactive drugs have been shown to adversely affect spermatogenesis. Despite the large body of available scientific literature on the etiology of male infertility, a substantial proportion of infertility cases are idiopathic in nature, with no known cause. The inability to treat such idiopathic cases stems from poor knowledge about the complex regulation of spermatogenesis. Emerging scientific evidence indicates that defective functioning of testicular Sertoli cells (Sc) may be an underlying cause of infertility/subfertility in males. Sc plays an indispensable role in regulating spermatogenesis, and impaired functional maturation of Sc has been shown to affect fertility in animal models as well as humans, suggesting abnormal Sc as a potential underlying cause of reproductive insufficiency/failure in such cases of unexplained infertility. This review summarizes the major causes of infertility/subfertility in males, with an emphasis on infertility due to dysregulated Sc function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, Central University of Kerala, Periye Campus, Kasaragod, 671320, Kerala, India.
| | - Souvik Sen Sharma
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, 500 032, Telangana, India
| | - Subeer S Majumdar
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, 500 032, Telangana, India.
- Gujarat Biotechnology University, Gandhinagar, GIFT City, Gandhinagar, 382355, Gujarat, India.
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18
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Cornejo-Guerra C, Salazar-Ardiles C, Morales P, Andrade DC. Consequences of Exposure to Hypobaric Hypoxia Associated with High Altitude on Spermatogenesis and Seminal Parameters: A Literature Review. Cells 2024; 13:592. [PMID: 38607031 PMCID: PMC11011536 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070592] [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] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Preclinical research has provided compelling evidence indicating that exposure to hypobaric hypoxia (HH) results in a deterioration of spermatogenesis. This adverse effect extends to the underlying molecular mechanisms, progressively leading to impairments in the seminiferous epithelium and germ cells and alterations in semen parameters. Indeed, several studies have demonstrated that animals exposed to HH, whether in natural high-altitude environments or under simulated hypoxic conditions, exhibit damage to the self-renewal and differentiation of spermatogenesis, an increase in germline cell apoptosis, and structural alterations in the seminiferous tubules. One of the primary mechanisms associated with the inhibition of differentiation and an increase in apoptosis among germ cells is an elevated level of oxidative stress, which has been closely associated with HH exposure. Human studies have shown that individuals exposed to HH, such as mountaineers and alpinists, exhibit decreased sperm count, reduced motility, diminished viability, and increased sperm with abnormal morphology in their semen. This evidence strongly suggests that exposure to HH may be considered a significant risk factor that could elevate the prevalence of male infertility. This literature review aims to provide a comprehensive description and propose potential mechanisms that could elucidate the infertility processes induced by HH. By doing so, it contributes to expanding our understanding of the challenges posed by extreme environments on human physiology, opening new avenues for research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Cornejo-Guerra
- Exercise Applied Physiology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Fisiología y Medicina de Altura (FIMEDALT), Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1271155, Chile; (C.C.-G.); (C.S.-A.)
| | - Camila Salazar-Ardiles
- Exercise Applied Physiology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Fisiología y Medicina de Altura (FIMEDALT), Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1271155, Chile; (C.C.-G.); (C.S.-A.)
| | - Patricio Morales
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1271155, Chile;
| | - David C. Andrade
- Exercise Applied Physiology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Fisiología y Medicina de Altura (FIMEDALT), Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1271155, Chile; (C.C.-G.); (C.S.-A.)
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19
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Joseph MD, Koenig MR, Kuriyama AS, Wang TR, Wesselink AK, Eisenberg ML, Sommer GJ, Rothman KJ, Stuver SO, Wise LA, Hatch EE. A preconception cohort study of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and semen quality. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 38450974 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietary factors, including high sugar intake, may have adverse effects on male reproduction. Studies of the association between sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) intake and semen quality have reported inconsistent results. OBJECTIVE We estimated the effects of SSB consumption on semen quality in a North American preconception cohort study. METHODS We analyzed baseline data from 690 males (n = 1,247 samples) participating in Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO) during 2015-2022. Participants aged ≥21 years completed a baseline questionnaire on which they reported information about intake of SSBs, including sodas, energy drinks, sports drinks, and fruit juices. After enrollment, we invited U.S. participants to a semen testing substudy, in which they collected and analyzed two samples using an at-home semen testing kit. We used linear regression models to estimate adjusted percent differences (%D) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations of SSB intake with semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count (TSC), motility, and total motile sperm count (TMSC). We used modified Poisson regression models to estimate adjusted risk ratios (RRs) and 95% CIs for the association of SSB intake with World Health Organization semen parameter cut points. RESULTS Relative to non-consumers of SSBs, those who consumed ≥7 SSBs/week had lower semen volume (%D = -6, 95% CI: -13, 0), sperm concentration (%D = -22, 95% CI: -38, 0), TSC (%D = -22, 95% CI: -38, -2), motility (%D = -4, 95% CI: -10, 2), and TMSC (%D = -25, 95% CI: -43, -2). High SSB consumers also had greater risks of low sperm concentration (≤16 million/mL; RR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.11, 3.21), low TSC (≤39 million; RR = 1.75, 95% CI: 0.92, 3.33), low motility (≤42%; RR = 1.23, 95% CI: 0.87, 1.75) and low TMSC (≤21 million; RR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.12, 3.38). Associations were stronger among participants with body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m2 . CONCLUSION Greater SSB consumption was associated with reduced semen quality in a North American preconception cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlon D Joseph
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Martha R Koenig
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrea S Kuriyama
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tanran R Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Department of Urology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Greg J Sommer
- Laboratory Corporation of America, Pleasanton, California, USA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sherri O Stuver
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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20
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Wang X, Kang C, Guo W, Yuan L, Zhang H, Zhang Q, Xiao Q, Hao W. Chlormequat chloride induced activation of calmodulin mediated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway led to impaired sperm quality in pubertal mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 185:114475. [PMID: 38286265 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Chlormequat chloride (CCC), as a widely used plant growth regulator, can cause impaired sperm quality and decreased testosterone synthesis in pubertal rats, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the toxicokinetics and tissue distribution of CCC, as well as the possible mechanism of CCC-induced impairment in sperm quality. The concentration of CCC reached its peak 1 h after a single dose (200 mg/kg·bw) administration in mice plasma, and a bimodal phenomenon appeared in the testes, liver, and epididymis. In vivo, 200 mg/kg CCC caused testicular damage and impaired sperm quality in pubertal mice, and the expression of p-tyrosine and GSK3α decreased in cauda epididymidis, sperm and testes. CCC also caused the down-regulation of AKAP4 and the up-regulation of calmodulin (CaM), and activated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in the testes. In vitro, CCC reduced the levels of p-tyrosine, AKAP4 and GSK3α, increased the level of CaM and activated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in GC-1 cells. CaM antagonist (W-7 hydrochloride) and PI3K inhibitor (LY294002) can effectively improve the expression of GSK3α and AKAP4 by suppressing the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in GC-1 cells treated with CCC. It was indicated that CCC induced impairment in sperm quality might be partially related to the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway mediated by CaM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxia Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Chenping Kang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Wanqian Guo
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Lilan Yuan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Haoran Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Qiong Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Qianqian Xiao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China.
| | - Weidong Hao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China.
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21
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Liu H, Tang Y, Sun L, Li S, Luo L, Chen Z, Li G. Involvement of Histone Acetyltransferase 1 (HAT1) in the Spermatogenesis of Non-Condensed Nuclear Sperm in Chinese Mitten Crab, Eriocheir sinensis. Biochem Genet 2024:10.1007/s10528-024-10700-0. [PMID: 38416273 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-024-10700-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis, is a decapod crustacean with a special, non-condensated nucleus in the sperm. Studies have shown that the nuclear compact state of male germ cells during the spermatogenesis is closely related to histone modification. To explore the possible role of histone acetyltransferase 1 (HAT1) in the chromatin organization during the E. sinensis spermatogenesis, we took the testis tissues of both adult and juvenile crabs as the materials of study and analyzed the biological functions of HAT1 by whole transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics, then further analyzed the expression and distribution of HAT1 using the methods of RT-qRCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence location. The results showed that HAT1 is an alkaline-unstable hydrophilic protein. It was predicted to interact with a variety of histones and chromosome assembly proteins, including Asf1b, Chaf1b, and Hist1h3f, and is involved in many biological functions pertaining to chromatin dynamics such as chromatin organization, DNA dependent nucleosome assembly, DNA conformational changes, and so on. HAT1 was up-regulated in the adult testes compared to the juvenile (n = 3, P < 0.05). HAT1 was mainly located in the nuclei of male germ cells of E. sinensis. As spermatogenesis proceeded, the expression of HAT1 decreased and even disappeared in the nuclei (n = 3, P < 0.05). HAT1 is an important player in histone acetylation, which facilitates chromatin alteration in a three-dimensional conformation. The expression of HAT1 in different male germ cells might indicate the chromatin dynamics at the diversity stages of spermatogenesis. The high expression of HAT1 at the early stages of E. sinensis spermatogenesis hints the active involvement in chromatin organization, while its progressively reduced expression accompanied by the progression of spermatogenesis suggests a relatively gradual stabilization and stereotyping of chromatin. As for the disappearance of HAT1 in mature sperm with non-condensed nuclei, the reduction in histones targeted by HAT1 or histone acetylation may be an important initiator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiting Liu
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Yulian Tang
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Lishuang Sun
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Shu Li
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Lvjing Luo
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Zhengyu Chen
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Genliang Li
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China.
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22
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Signorini C, Saso L, Ghareghomi S, Telkoparan-Akillilar P, Collodel G, Moretti E. Redox Homeostasis and Nrf2-Regulated Mechanisms Are Relevant to Male Infertility. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:193. [PMID: 38397791 PMCID: PMC10886271 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13020193] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility represents a significant global health challenge, affecting more than 12% of couples worldwide, and most cases of infertility are caused by male factors. Several pathological pathways are implicated in male infertility. The main mechanisms involved are driven by the loss of reduction-oxidation (redox) homeostasis and the resulting oxidative damage as well as the chronic inflammatory process. Increased or severe oxidative stress leads to sperm plasma membrane and DNA oxidative damage, dysregulated RNA processing, and telomere destruction. The signaling pathways of these molecular events are also regulated by Nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). The causes of male infertility, the role of oxidative stress in male infertility and the Keap1-Nrf2 antioxidant pathway are reviewed. This review highlights the regulatory role of Nrf2 in the balance between oxidants and antioxidants as relevant mechanisms to male fertility. Nrf2 is involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis and sperm quality. Establishing a link between Nrf2 signaling pathways and the regulation of male fertility provides the basis for molecular modulation of inflammatory processes, reactive oxygen species generation, and the antioxidant molecular network, including the Nrf2-regulated antioxidant response, to improve male reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Signorini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.S.); (G.C.); (E.M.)
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Somayyeh Ghareghomi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran 1417466191, Iran;
| | | | - Giulia Collodel
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.S.); (G.C.); (E.M.)
| | - Elena Moretti
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.S.); (G.C.); (E.M.)
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23
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Cao J, Zhao X, Qin Z, Lv S, Du L, Liu Z, Fan L, Bo H. Single Cell Map of Human Azoospermia Testis Caused by Cyclophosphamide Chemotherapy. Sci Data 2024; 11:163. [PMID: 38307907 PMCID: PMC10837125 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-024-02938-5] [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: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapeutic drugs will affect the process of spermatogenesis. However, most current studies on the effects of chemotherapeutic drugs on spermatogenesis are based on mouse models, with a shortage of human body evidence. In addition, the mechanism of chemotherapeutic drugs causing spermatogenesis disorder is not clear. Therefore, we have collected the testicular tissues of an inguinal-lipoma patient whose testes were resected after chemotherapy and a patient who had normal spermatogenesis disorder and underwent single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-Seq). After quality control, we obtained a total of 27,957 high-quality cells, including 18,612 normal cells and 9,345 drug-treated cells, which were all used in analyzing the mechanism of chemotherapeutic drugs causing spermatogenesis disorder. This study has provided data resources and references for exploring the mechanism of chemotherapeutic drugs causing spermatogenesis disorder with the insight of protecting the spermatogenic abilities of male tumor patients receiving chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Cao
- Department of Urology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xueheng Zhao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zailong Qin
- Laboratory of Genetics and Metabolism, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi Birth Defects Research and Prevention Institute, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Shanshan Lv
- Department of Blood Transfusion, the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lin Du
- Department of Blood Transfusion, the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhizhong Liu
- Department of Urology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liqing Fan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hao Bo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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24
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Zhang D, Raza SHA, Du X, Wang J, Wang M, Ma J, Xie K, Pant SD, He J, Aloufi BH, Mei C, Zan L. Effect of feeding corn silage on semen quality and spermatogenesis of bulls. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:391-401. [PMID: 37733150 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10218-7] [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: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Bovine reproduction, including male fertility traits like semen quality, are influenced by a variety of different factors like breed, nutrition, environment, and feeding management. Diet in a crucial determinant, and in this regard although corn silage is generally considered to be a favorable roughage for fattening meat type breeds, it tends to have a negative impact on semen quality. In the current study, alfalfa hay was substituted by corn silage as a roughage source in the diet of bulls to investigate its effects on the fertility of breeding bulls. A feeding trail spanning 140 days was conducted, with semen collection occurring twice a week commencing 60 days after the start of trial. Semen quality parameters, serum antioxidant indexes, sex hormone content in semen, rumen microflora, and sperm transcriptome were characterized. Feeding corn silage enhanced host antioxidant capacity, significantly decreased spermatozoal motility and increased sperm deformity rate in bulls. Furthermore, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) content in semen were significantly decreased (P < 0.05), and the inhibin B (INHB) content was significantly increased (P < 0.01). Feeding corn silage led to significant changes in the diversity of rumen microbiota of cattle at the phylum and genus levels, some of which were significantly correlated with semen quality. Subsequent RNA sequencing indicated that DHH and PITHD1, two genes related to sperm and reproductive development, were differentially expressed, and enrichment analysis also identified several pathways and biological functions relevant to sperm development and reproduction. These results indicate that feeding corn silage modulates semen quality via different pathways. Firstly, corn silage metabolites likely affect the secretion of INHB through the testicular capillaries, which affects semen quality by regulating genes involved in spermatogenesis. Secondly, low lignin content in silage corn appears to reduce abundance of rumen flora that are positively correlated with semen quality. Overall, results indicate that feeding bulls corn silage as the primary source of forage could negatively impact semen quality and may not be appropriate as the primary roughage of forage for breeding bulls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dianqi Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Sayed Haidar Abbas Raza
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food Quality and Safety/Nation-Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Machining and Safety of Livestock and Poultry Products, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation of Food and Medicinal Resources in Northern Region, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan, 512005, China
| | - Xinze Du
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Juze Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Meng Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Jing Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Kuncheng Xie
- Xi'an Dairy Cow Breeding Center, Xi'an Agriculture and Rural Bureau, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710000, P.R. China
| | - Sameer D Pant
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| | - Jie He
- Xi'an Dairy Cow Breeding Center, Xi'an Agriculture and Rural Bureau, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710000, P.R. China
| | - Bander Hamad Aloufi
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Ha'il, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Chugang Mei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
- National Beef Cattle Improvement Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Linsen Zan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China.
- National Beef Cattle Improvement Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China.
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25
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Lira Neto FT, Roque M, Esteves SC. Effect of varicocele and varicocelectomy on sperm deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation rates in infertile men with clinical varicocele. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2024; 76:49-69. [PMID: 36222786 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.22.05169-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Varicocele is the leading cause of male infertility. It can affect sperm quantity and quality through various non-mutually exclusive pathophysiological mechanisms, mainly oxidative stress. Excessive production of reactive oxygen species may overwhelm the sperm's defenses against oxidative stress and harm the sperm's DNA. Excessive sperm DNA breaks, so-called sperm DNA fragmentation, result from the oxidative stress cascade and are commonly found in the ejaculates of men with varicocele and fertility-related issues. Measuring sperm DNA fragmentation can provide valuable information on the extent of harm and might help select candidates for surgical treatment. Varicocelectomy is beneficial for alleviating oxidative stress-associated infertility and improving sperm DNA integrity. However, reproductive outcomes of infertile men with elevated sperm DNA fragmentation rates and surgically treated varicoceles remain poorly studied, and there is a need for well-designed trials to determine the impact of sperm DNA fragmentation reduction on natural and medically assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe T Lira Neto
- AndrosRecife, Andrology Clinic, Recife, Brazil
- Department of Urology, Prof. Fernando Figueira Institute of Integrative Medicine, Recife, Brazil
| | - Matheus Roque
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Mater Prime, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, Brazil -
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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26
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Piechka A, Sparanese S, Witherspoon L, Hach F, Flannigan R. Molecular mechanisms of cellular dysfunction in testes from men with non-obstructive azoospermia. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:67-90. [PMID: 38110528 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00837-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Male factor infertility affects 50% of infertile couples worldwide; the most severe form, non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), affects 10-15% of infertile males. Treatment for individuals with NOA is limited to microsurgical sperm extraction paired with in vitro fertilization intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Unfortunately, spermatozoa are only retrieved in ~50% of patients, resulting in live birth rates of 21-46%. Regenerative therapies could provide a solution; however, understanding the cell-type-specific mechanisms of cellular dysfunction is a fundamental necessity to develop precision medicine strategies that could overcome these abnormalities and promote regeneration of spermatogenesis. A number of mechanisms of cellular dysfunction have been elucidated in NOA testicular cells. These mechanisms include abnormalities in both somatic cells and germ cells in NOA testes, such as somatic cell immaturity, aberrant growth factor signalling, increased inflammation, increased apoptosis and abnormal extracellular matrix regulation. Future cell-type-specific investigations in identifying modulators of cellular transcription and translation will be key to understanding upstream dysregulation, and these studies will require development of in vitro models to functionally interrogate spermatogenic niche dysfunction in both somatic and germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arina Piechka
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sydney Sparanese
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Luke Witherspoon
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Faraz Hach
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ryan Flannigan
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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27
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Qu W, Yu X, Shi H, Chen Z, Luo M. Editorial: Mammalian spermatogenesis: genetic and environmental factors. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1372799. [PMID: 38357001 PMCID: PMC10864451 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1372799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mengcheng Luo
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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28
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Gui Y, Ma X, Xiong M, Wen Y, Cao C, Zhang L, Wang X, Liu C, Zhang H, Huang X, Xiong C, Pan F, Yuan S. Transcriptome analysis of meiotic and post-meiotic spermatogenic cells reveals the potential hub genes of aging on the decline of male fertility. Gene 2024; 893:147883. [PMID: 37839768 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147883] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Genetic and epigenetic changes in sperm caused by male aging may be essential factors affecting semen parameters, but the effects and specific molecular mechanisms of aging on male reproduction have not been fully clarified. In this study, to explore the effect of aging on male fertility and seek the potential molecular etiology, we performed high-throughput RNA-sequencing in isolated spermatogenic cells, including pachytene spermatocytes (marked by the completion of chromosome synapsis) and round spermatids (produced by the separation of sister chromatids) from the elderly and the young men. Functional enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in round spermatids between the elderly and young showed that they were significantly enriched in gamete generation, spindle assembly, and cilium movement involved in cell motility. In addition, the expression levels of DEGs in round spermatids (post-meiotic cells) were found to be more susceptible to age. Furthermore, ten genes (AURKA, CCNB1, CDC20, CCNB2, KIF2C, KIAA0101, NR5A1, PLK1, PTTG1, RAD51AP1) were identified to be the hub genes involved in the regulation of sperm quality in the elderly through Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network construction and measuring semantic among GO terms and gene products. Our data provide aging-related molecular alterations in meiotic and post-meiotic spermatogenic cells, and the information gained from this study may explain the abnormal aging-related male fertility decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqian Gui
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Xixiang Ma
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Laboratory Animal Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Mengneng Xiong
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yujiao Wen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Congcong Cao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Xunbin Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei 430013, China
| | | | - Feng Pan
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Laboratory Animal Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China.
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29
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Randell Z, Dehghanbanadaki H, Fendereski K, Jimbo M, Aston K, Hotaling J. Sperm telomere length in male-factor infertility and reproduction. Fertil Steril 2024; 121:12-25. [PMID: 37949346 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.11.001] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The underlying reasons for male-factor infertility are often unknown. 30% of all men have unexplained semen analysis abnormalities. Moreover, 15%-40% of infertile men have normal semen analyses. There have been increasing efforts to identify causes and associations that may explain idiopathic male-factor infertility. Telomeres have become an area of considerable interest in the field because of the essential roles they have in cellular division and genome integrity. Research to date most consistently supports that men with infertility have shorter sperm telomere length (STL); however, associations between shorter STL and meaningful reproductive health outcomes are less consistent. There is a major need for additional studies to better identify the role of STL in male reproductive health and use the information to improve the counseling and treatment of couples with idiopathic male-factor infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zane Randell
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.
| | - Hojat Dehghanbanadaki
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Kiarad Fendereski
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Masaya Jimbo
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Kenneth Aston
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - James Hotaling
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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30
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Zhao YD, Yang CX, Du ZQ. Integrated single cell transcriptome sequencing analysis reveals species-specific genes and molecular pathways for pig spermiogenesis. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:1745-1755. [PMID: 37874861 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14493] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a highly complicated and intricately organized process involving spermatogonia propagation (mitosis) and meiotic differentiation into mature sperm cells (spermiogenesis). In pigs, spermatogonia development and the role of somatic cells in spermatogenesis were previously investigated in detail. However, the characterization of key molecules fundamental to pig spermiogenesis remains less explored. Here we compared spermatogenesis between humans and pigs, focusing on spermiogenesis, by integrative testicular single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis. Human and pig testicular cells were clustered into 26 different groups, with cell-type-specific markers and signalling pathways. For spermiogenesis, pseudo-time analysis classified the lineage differentiation routes for round, elongated spermatids and spermatozoa. Moreover, markers and molecular pathways specific to each type of spermatids were examined for humans and pigs, respectively. Furthermore, high-dimensional weighted gene co-expression network analysis (hdWGCNA) identified gene modules specific for each type of human and pig spermatids. Hub genes (pig: SNRPD2.1 related to alternative splicing; human: CATSPERZ, Ca[2+] ion channel) potentially involved in spermiogenesis were also revealed. Taken together, our integrative analysis found that human and pig spermiogeneses involve specific genes and molecular pathways and provided resources and insights for further functional investigation on spermatid maturation and male reproductive ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Dan Zhao
- College of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Cai-Xia Yang
- College of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Du
- College of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
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31
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Zhang Q, Xu W, Kong Z, Wu Y, Liu Y. Cadmium exposure-induced rat testicular dysfunction and its mechanism of chronic stress. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 182:114181. [PMID: 37972751 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.114181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium is a common environmental pollutant in daily life, the toxic mechanisms of chronic cadmium exposure on the testes have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to explore the effects of cadmium exposure on male reproductive health and its mechanism. The results showed that cadmium exposure led widened interstitial spaces, abnormal seminiferous tubule morphology, and decreased Leydig cell numbers. Moreover, sperm quality was significantly reduced, along with a decrease in fertility rate. And cadmium exposure could activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, elevate blood glucocorticoid levels, subsequently increase glucocorticoid receptor (GR) expression and activation in testicular Leydig cells. Then GR act on the glucocorticoid receptor element (GRE) in the DNA methyltransferase 3 A (DNMT3A) promoter region and upregulate DNMT3A expression. Consequently, this led to an increase in DNA methylation levels in the angiotensin II receptor 2 (AT2R) promoter region, resulting in reduced AT2R expression and inhibiting testicular steroidogenesis. This study systematically elucidated that cadmium exposure could lead to testicular steroidogenesis suppression and decreased fertility through the GR/DNMT3A/AT2R signaling pathway. This research further provides theoretical and experimental evidence for confirming the threat of cadmium exposure to human reproduction, and contributes to the guidance and protection of male reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, Hubei, 445000, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, Hubei, 445000, China
| | - ZiYu Kong
- Department of Pharmacology, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - YuJiao Wu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, Hubei, 445000, China.
| | - Yi Liu
- China Tobacco HuBei Industrial LLC, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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32
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Yang D, Zhang M, Chen W, Lu Q, Wan S, Du X, Li Y, Li B, Wu W, Wang C, Li N, Peng S, Tang H, Hua J. UCHL1 maintains microenvironmental homeostasis in goat germline stem cells. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23306. [PMID: 37934018 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301674rr] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) play a crucial role in mammalian spermatogenesis and maintain the stable inheritance of the germline in livestock. However, stress and bacterial or viral infections can disrupt immune homeostasis of the testes, thereby leading to spermatogenesis destruction and infertility, which severely affects the health and productivity of mammals. This study aimed to explore the effect of ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) knockdown (KD) in goat SSCs and mouse testes and investigate the potential anti-inflammatory function of UCHL1 in a poly(I:C)-induced inflammation model to maintain microenvironmental homeostasis. In vitro, the downregulation of UCHL1 (UCHL1 KD) in goat SSCs increased the expression levels of apoptosis and inflammatory factors and inhibited the self-renewal and proliferation of SSCs. In vivo, the structure of seminiferous tubules and spermatogenic cells was disrupted after UCHL1 KD, and the expression levels of apoptosis- and inflammation-related proteins were significantly upregulated. Furthermore, UCHL1 inhibited the TLR3/TBK1/IRF3 pathway to resist poly(I:C)-induced inflammation in SSCs by antagonizing HSPA8 and thus maintaining SSC autoimmune homeostasis. Most importantly, the results of this study showed that UCHL1 maintained immune homeostasis of SSCs and spermatogenesis. UCHL1 KD not only inhibited the self-renewal and proliferation of goat SSCs and spermatogenesis but was also involved in the inflammatory response of goat SSCs. Additionally, UCHL1 has an antiviral function in SSCs by antagonizing HSPA8, which provides an important basis for exploring the specific mechanisms of UCHL1 in goat spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghui Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Mengfei Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Wenbo Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Qizhong Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shicheng Wan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Xiaomin Du
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Shaanxi Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Cashmere Goats, College of Life Sciences, Yulin University, Yulin, China
| | - Yunxiang Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Balun Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Wenping Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Congliang Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Na Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Sha Peng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Haiyang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinlian Hua
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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33
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Liu L, Zhang M, Jiang F, Luo D, Liu S, Su Y, Guan Q, Yu C. High cholesterol diet-induced testicular dysfunction in rats. Hormones (Athens) 2023; 22:685-694. [PMID: 37596375 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-023-00472-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hypercholesterolemia due to a high-cholesterol diet is linked to numerous diseases and may lead to male infertility. However, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. The maintenance of male fertility requires intact testicular structures (including seminiferous tubules and mesenchyme) and functioning cells (Leydig cells, Sertoli cells and germ cells, etc.), production of appropriate concentrations of sex hormones, and cooperation among testicular cells. Thus, we considered whether male fertility declined as the structure and function of testicular cells were altered in rats on a high-cholesterol diet. METHODS Male Sprague Dawley rats were fed either a standard or a high-cholesterol diet for 16 weeks. Serum sex hormones, lipid components, semen quality, and fertility rate were assayed in the rats. The 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), Wilms tumor 1 (WT-1), and deleted in azoospermia-like (DAZL) were regarded as specific markers of Leydig, Sertoli, and germ cells in rats. In addition, the ultrastructure of the testis and expression levels of particular marker molecules of testicular cells were further investigated. RESULTS Compared to rats fed on a regular diet, the serum testosterone levels and sperm progressive motility decreased in rats fed high cholesterol. Moreover, we observed a deformed nucleus, dilated smooth endoplasmic reticulum, and swollen mitochondria of Leydig cells and a schizolytic nucleus of Sertoli cells in rats on a high-cholesterol diet. The 3β-HSD, WT-1, and DAZL protein expression levels were significantly reduced in rats on a high-cholesterol diet. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that a high-cholesterol diet adversely affected testosterone production and sperm progressive motility, possibly due to Leydig, Sertoli, and germ cell abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luna Liu
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic disease, Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Meijie Zhang
- Jing'an District Center Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Fangjie Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, People's Republic of China
| | - Dandan Luo
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic disease, Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic disease, Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Yu Su
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic disease, Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Qingbo Guan
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic disease, Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Chunxiao Yu
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic disease, Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
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Ran Y, Duan N, Gao Z, Liu Y, Liu X, Xue B. Sulforaphane attenuates irradiation induced testis injury in mice. Redox Rep 2023; 28:2279818. [PMID: 38052218 PMCID: PMC11001278 DOI: 10.1080/13510002.2023.2279818] [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] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The testis is vulnerable to ionizing radiation, sexual dysfunction and male infertility are common problems after local radiation or whole-body exposure. Currently, there are no approved drugs for the prevention or treatment of radiation testicular injury. Sulforaphane (SFN) is an indirect antioxidant that induces phase II detoxification enzymes and antioxidant genes. Herein, we investigated the radiation protective effect of SFN on testicular injury in mice and its potential mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS Mice were randomly divided into blank control group (Ctrl), radiation + no pretreatment group (IR), and radiation + SFN groups (IRS). In the radiation + SFN groups, starting from 72 h before radiation, SFN solution was intraperitoneally injected once a day until they were sacrificed. Mice in the blank control group and the radiation + no pretreatment group were simultaneously injected intraperitoneally with an equal volume of the solvent used to dissolve SFN (PBS with a final concentration of 0.1%DMSO) until they were sacrificed. They were subjected to 6Mev-ray radiation to the lower abdominal testis area (total dose 2Gy). Twenty-four hours after radiation, six mice in each group were randomly sacrificed. Seventy-two hours after radiation, the remaining mice were sacrificed. RESULTS The results showed that the harmful effects of ionizing radiation on testes were manifested as damage to histoarchitecture, increased oxidative stress, and apoptosis, and thus impaired male fertility. SFN injections can reverse these symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The results showed that SFN can improve the damage of mouse testis caused by irradiation. Furthermore, SFN prevents spermatogenesis dysfunction caused by ionizing radiation by activating Nrf2 and its downstream antioxidant gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanshuai Ran
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Nengliang Duan
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhixiang Gao
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yulong Liu
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaolong Liu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Boxin Xue
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People’s Republic of China
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35
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Liu H, Jin H, Pan C, Chen Y, Li D, Ding J, Han X. Co-exposure to polystyrene microplastics and microcystin-LR aggravated male reproductive toxicity in mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 181:114104. [PMID: 37848122 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.114104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are plastic pollutants with a diameter of less than 5 mm and microcystins (MCs) are natural toxins produced by cyanobacteria. In recent years, the pollution of MPs and MCs attracted widespread attention. However, our understanding about the toxic effects of co-exposure of MPs and MCs on male reproduction is limited. Mice were continuously exposed to 0.04mg/(kg*bw) microcystin-leucine-arginine (MC-LR) or 45 mg/(kg*bw) polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) or a mixed solution of 0.04mg/(kg*bw) MC-LR and 45 mg/(kg*bw) PS-MPs by gavage for 28 days in this study. The results showed that PS-MPs could absorb MC-LR in ddH2O and MC-LR content in testis was increased in the group with combined exposure when compared to the group only exposed to MC-LR. Exposure to PS-MPs or MC-LR individually could destroy testis structure, increase the level of tissue apoptosis and decrease the quality of sperm, while the co-exposure enhanced the toxic effects. Furthermore, PS-MPs could carry MC-LR into testis Leydig cells, reduce testosterone levels and mRNA expression levels of key molecules involved in testosterone synthesis (StAR, P450scc, P450c17,3β-HSD and 17β-HSD). Among them, the combined effect of PS-MPs-MC-LR was the most severe. In summary, this study provides new insights into the toxicity of MPs and MCs in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongru Liu
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China
| | - Haibo Jin
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China
| | - Chun Pan
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China
| | - Yabing Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China
| | - Dongmei Li
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China
| | - Jie Ding
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
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Kyrgiafini MA, Giannoulis T, Chatziparasidou A, Christoforidis N, Mamuris Z. Unveiling the Genetic Complexity of Teratozoospermia: Integrated Genomic Analysis Reveals Novel Insights into lncRNAs' Role in Male Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15002. [PMID: 37834450 PMCID: PMC10573971 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241915002] [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: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a global health issue, affecting over 20 million men worldwide. Genetic factors are crucial in various male infertility forms, including teratozoospermia. Nonetheless, the genetic causes of male infertility remain largely unexplored. In this study, we employed whole-genome sequencing and RNA expression analysis to detect differentially expressed (DE) long-noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in teratozoospermia, along with mutations that are exclusive to teratozoospermic individuals within these DE lncRNAs regions. Bioinformatic tools were used to assess variants' impact on lncRNA structure, function, and lncRNA-miRNA interactions. Our analysis identified 1166 unique mutations in teratozoospermic men within DE lncRNAs, distinguishing them from normozoospermic men. Among these, 64 variants in 23 lncRNAs showed potential regulatory roles, 7 variants affected 4 lncRNA structures, while 37 variants in 17 lncRNAs caused miRNA target loss or gain. Pathway Enrichment and Gene Ontology analyses of the genes targeted by the affected miRNAs revealed dysregulated pathways in teratozoospermia and a link between male infertility and cancer. This study lists novel variants and lncRNAs associated for the first time with teratozoospermia. These findings pave the way for future studies aiming to enhance diagnosis and therapy in the field of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Anna Kyrgiafini
- Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, Mezourlo, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Themistoklis Giannoulis
- Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Bioinformatics, Department of Animal Sciences, University of Thessaly, Gaiopolis, 41336 Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexia Chatziparasidou
- Embryolab IVF Unit, St. 173-175 Ethnikis Antistaseos, Kalamaria, 55134 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Zissis Mamuris
- Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, Mezourlo, 41500 Larissa, Greece
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Wei YL, Fan XJ, Lin XC, Lin AZ, She ZY, Wang XR. Kinesin-14 KIFC1 promotes acrosome formation and chromatin maturation during mouse spermiogenesis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2023; 1870:119555. [PMID: 37524262 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
KIFC1, a member of kinesin-14 subfamily motors, is essential for meiotic cell division and acrosome formation during spermatogenesis. However, the functions of KIFC1 in the formation and maintenance of the acrosome in male germ cells remain to be elucidated. In this study, we report the structural deformities of acrosomes in the in vivo KIFC1 inhibition mouse models. The proacrosomal vesicles diffuse into the cytoplasm and form atypical acrosomal granules. This phenotype is consistent with globozoospermia patients and probably results from the failure of the Golgi-derived vesicle trafficking and actin filament organization. Moreover, the multinucleated and undifferentiated spermatogenic cells in the epidydimal lumen after KIFC1 inhibition reveal the specific roles of KIFC1 in regulating post-meiotic maturation. Overall, our results uncover KIFC1 as an essential regulator in the trafficking, fusion and maturation of acrosomal vesicles during spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Lan Wei
- NHC Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate (Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital), Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China; College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Xiao-Jing Fan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate (Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital), Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China; College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Xin-Chen Lin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate (Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital), Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China; College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Ai-Zhu Lin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate (Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital), Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China; College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Zhen-Yu She
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Xin-Rui Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate (Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital), Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China; College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China.
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Liao X, Tao B, Zhang X, Chen L, Chen J, Song Y, Hu W. Loss of gdnfa disrupts spermiogenesis and male courtship behavior in zebrafish. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 576:112010. [PMID: 37419437 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112010] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is essential for establishment and maintenance of reproduction in male vertebrates. Spermatogenesis, which is mainly regulated by the combined action of hormones, growth factors, and epigenetic factors, is highly conserved. Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily. In this study, global gdnfa knockout and Tg (gdnfa: mcherry) transgenic zebrafish lines were generated. Loss of gdnfa resulted in disorganized testes, decreased gonadosomatic index, and low percentage of mature spermatozoa. In the Tg (gdnfa: mcherry) zebrafish line, we found that gdnfa was expressed in Leydig cells. The mutation in gdnfa significantly decreased Leydig cell marker gene expression and androgen secretion in Leydig cells. In addition, courtship behavior was disrupted in the male mutants. We present in vivo data showing that global knockout of gdnfa disrupts spermiogenesis and male courtship behavior in zebrafish. The first viable vertebrate model with a global gdnfa knockout may be valuable for studying the role of GDNF in animal reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianyao Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Binbin Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China.
| | - Xiya Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Lu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ji Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Yanlong Song
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Wei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovation Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modem Agriculture, China; Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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Hashemi Karoii D, Azizi H. Functions and mechanism of noncoding RNA in regulation and differentiation of male mammalian reproduction. Cell Biochem Funct 2023; 41:767-778. [PMID: 37583312 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3838] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are active regulators of a wide range of biological and physiological processes, including the majority of mammalian reproductive events. Knowledge of the biological activities of ncRNAs in the context of mammalian reproduction will allow for a more comprehensive and comparative understanding of male sterility and fertility. In this review, we describe recent advances in ncRNA-mediated control of mammalian reproduction and emphasize the importance of ncRNAs in several aspects of mammalian reproduction, such as germ cell biogenesis and reproductive organ activity. Furthermore, we focus on gene expression regulatory feedback loops including hormones and ncRNA expression to better understand germ cell commitment and reproductive organ function. Finally, this study shows the role of ncRNAs in male reproductive failure and provides suggestions for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danial Hashemi Karoii
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
| | - Hossein Azizi
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
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40
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Mo P, Zhao Z, Ke X, Fan Y, Li C. Effects of clinical medications on male fertility and prospects for stem cell therapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1258574. [PMID: 37791073 PMCID: PMC10543686 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1258574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of men require long-term drug therapy for various diseases. However, the effects of long-term drug therapy on male fertility are often not well evaluated in clinical practice. Meanwhile, the development of stem cell therapy and exosomes treatment methods may provide a new sight on treating male infertility. This article reviews the influence and mechanism of small molecule medications on male fertility, as well as progress of stem cell and exosomes therapy for male infertility with the purpose on providing suggestions (recommendations) for evaluating the effect of drugs on male fertility (both positive and negative effect on male fertility) in clinical application and providing strategies for diagnosis and treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yong Fan
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chaohui Li
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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41
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Yi L, Zhu S, Wu P, Zhang Y, Wang M, Xu P, Zeng J, Wang G, Luo L, Li W. Catalysis-Mediated Male Contraception through Black Phosphorus Nanosheets. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:42284-42292. [PMID: 37646168 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c09574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Nanocontraception has been proposed and received extensive attention in recent years for population control. However, currently developed methods for nanocontraception still face problems in efficacy and safety. Here, we propose catalysis-mediated oxidation as a new strategy for nanocontraception. With the catalytic production of highly oxidative species, male contraception was successfully achieved after the administration of black phosphorus nanosheets into the testes of male mice. Further mechanistic studies revealed that contraception was induced by oxidative stress and apoptosis of spermatogenesis cells. Meanwhile, the apoptosis of germ cells released testis antigen and induced immune cell infiltration, which enhanced reproductive damage. Notably, the introduced black phosphorus nanosheets naturally degraded during the catalytic oxidation process and ultimately converted to harmless phosphates, indicating the safety of the strategy. Furthermore, the catalysis-mediated strategy avoids utilizing additional inducers, such as near-infrared irradiation, magnetic fields, or ultrasound, which may cause severe pain. In summary, the proposed catalysis-mediated contraception can be a self-cleared, convenient, and safe strategy for controlling male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lirong Yi
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P. R. China
| | - Shiyao Zhu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P. R. China
| | - Pengfei Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P. R. China
| | - Yuhang Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P. R. China
| | - Mo Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P. R. China
| | - Pengping Xu
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Key Laboratory of Strongly-Coupled Quantum Matter Physics of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Surface and Interface Chemistry and Energy Catalysis of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Department of Chemical Physics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, P. R. China
| | - Jie Zeng
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Key Laboratory of Strongly-Coupled Quantum Matter Physics of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Surface and Interface Chemistry and Energy Catalysis of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Department of Chemical Physics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, P. R. China
| | - Guishuan Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P. R. China
| | - Laihao Luo
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Key Laboratory of Strongly-Coupled Quantum Matter Physics of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Surface and Interface Chemistry and Energy Catalysis of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Department of Chemical Physics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, P. R. China
| | - Wenqing Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P. R. China
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Liu SW, Luo JQ, Zhao LY, Ou NJ, Chao-Yang, Zhang YX, Bai HW, Sun HF, Zhang JX, Yao CC, Li P, Tian RH, Li Z, Zhu ZJ. scRNA-seq reveals that origin recognition complex subunit 6 regulates mouse spermatogonial cell proliferation and apoptosis via activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Asian J Androl 2023; 26:00129336-990000000-00123. [PMID: 37788012 PMCID: PMC10846824 DOI: 10.4103/aja202330] [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: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT The regulation of spermatogonial proliferation and apoptosis is of great significance for maintaining spermatogenesis. The single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis of the testis was performed to identify genes upregulated in spermatogonia. Using scRNA-seq analysis, we identified the spermatogonia upregulated gene origin recognition complex subunit 6 (Orc6), which is involved in DNA replication and cell cycle regulation; its protein expression in the human and mouse testis was detected by western blot and immunofluorescence. To explore the potential function of Orc6 in spermatogonia, the C18-4 cell line was transfected with control or Orc6 siRNA. Subsequently, 5-ethynyl-2-deoxyuridine (EdU) and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assays, flow cytometry, and western blot were used to evaluate its effects on proliferation and apoptosis. It was revealed that ORC6 could promote proliferation and inhibit apoptosis of C18-4 cells. Bulk RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis indicated that Orc6 was involved in the activation of wingless/integrated (Wnt)/ β-catenin signaling. Western blot revealed that the expression of β-catenin protein and its phosphorylation (Ser675) were significantly decreased when silencing the expression of ORC6. Our findings indicated that Orc6 was upregulated in spermatogonia, whereby it regulated proliferation and apoptosis by activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Wei Liu
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jia-Qiang Luo
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Liang-Yu Zhao
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China
| | - Ning-Jing Ou
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Chao-Yang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Yu-Xiang Zhang
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Hao-Wei Bai
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Hong-Fang Sun
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jian-Xiong Zhang
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Chen-Cheng Yao
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Ru-Hui Tian
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zi-Jue Zhu
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
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Atabaki B, Mirazi N, Hosseini A, Sarihi A, Izadi Z, Nourian A. Effect of Elettaria cardamomum L. on hormonal changes and spermatogenesis in the propylthiouracil-induced hypothyroidism male BALB/c mice. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab 2023; 6:e438. [PMID: 37403247 PMCID: PMC10495560 DOI: 10.1002/edm2.438] [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: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spermatogenesis is significantly influenced by the thyroid gland. Thyroid disorders can be caused by a variety of factors. Traditionally, Ellettaria cardamomum has been used to treat a variety of ailments. The effects of E. cardamomum extract (ECE) on spermatogenesis in hypothyroid mice were investigated in this study. METHODS In this study 42 male mice, weighing (25-35 g) were randomly divided in six groups: control group (taking normal saline, 0.5 mL/day, by oral gavage [P.O.]), hypothyroid group (taking 0.1% propylthiouracil in drinking water for 2 weeks), hypothyroid groups treated by levothyroxine (15 mg/kg/day, P.O.) and hypothyroid groups treated by ECE (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg/day, P.O.). After the end of experiments the mice were anaesthetised and blood samples were collected for hormonal analysis. RESULTS The sperm count and microscopic studies of testes were done also. Our results showed that the T3 , T4 , testosterone levels and spermatogenesis in hypothyroid animals decreased and thyroid-stimulating hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone increased compared with control group. Treatment by ECE reverse these effects in comparison with hypothyroid group. CONCLUSIONS According to our findings, the ECE may stimulates thyroid gland function and increases testosterone and spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahar Atabaki
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic SciencesIslamic Azad UniversityHamedanIran
| | - Naser Mirazi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic SciencesBu‐Ali Sina UniversityHamedanIran
| | - Abdolkarim Hosseini
- Department of Animal Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Sciences and BiotechnologyShahid Beheshti UniversityTehranIran
| | - Abdolrahman Sarihi
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Sciences and Advanced Technology in MedicineHamadan University of Medical SciencesHamadanIran
| | - Zahra Izadi
- Department of Horticulture Sciences and Engineering, Nahavand Higher Education ComplexBu‐Ali Sina UniversityHamedanIran
| | - Alireza Nourian
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary ScienceBu‐Ali Sina UniversityHamedanIran
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Zou Y, Zhang L, Yue M, Zou Z, Wu X, Zhang Q, Huang Y, Zeng S, Chen C, Gao J. Reproductive effects of pubertal exposure to neonicotinoid thiacloprid in immature male mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2023; 474:116629. [PMID: 37468076 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2023.116629] [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: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Thiacloprid (THIA) is a kind of neonicotinoid, a widely used insecticide class. Animal studies of adult and prenatal exposure to THIA have revealed deleterious effects on mammalian sperm fertility and embryonic development. A recent cross-sectional study linked higher THIA concentrations to delayed genitalia development stages in adolescent boys, suggesting that pubertal exposure to THIA may adversely affect reproductive development in immature males. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the effects of daily oral administration of THIA during puberty on the reproductive system of developing male mice. Young male C57 BL/6 J mice aged 21 days were administrated with THIA at concentrations of 10 (THIA-10), 50 (THIA-50) and 100 mg/kg (THIA-100) for 4 weeks by oral gavage. It is found that exposure to 100 mg/kg THIA diminished sexual behavior in immature male mice, caused a decrease in the spermatogenic cell layers and irregular arrangement of the seminiferous epithelium, and down-regulated the mRNA levels of spermatogenesis-related genes Ddx4, Scp3, Atg5, Crem, and Ki67, leading to an increase of sperm abnormality rate. In addition, THIA exposure at 50 and 100 mg/kg reduced the serum levels of testosterone and FSH, and decreased the expression levels of Star and Cyp11a1 related to testosterone biosynthesis. THIA exposure at 10 mg/kg did not produce any of the above significant changes. In conclusion, the high dose of THIA exposure impaired reproductive function in immature mice. It seems that THIA has no detrimental effects on the reproductive system of mice at low dose of 10 mg/kg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zou
- Research Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Liyu Zhang
- Research Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Yue
- Research Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Zou
- Dongsheng Lung-Brain Disease Joint Lab, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Molecular Biology Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Wu
- Research Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiuyan Zhang
- Research Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Huang
- Research Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaohua Zeng
- China Coal Technology & Engineering Group Chongqing Research Institute, Chongqing 400039, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengzhi Chen
- Research Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Dongsheng Lung-Brain Disease Joint Lab, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jieying Gao
- Research Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
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de Araújo Silva EF, da Silva Gomes JA, Figueira de Oliveira ML, Furtado de Carvalho Noya AGA, Peixoto Magalhães C, da Silva JV, da Silva LH, Tenorio BM, Moraes Valença M, Mendes Tenorio FDCA. Protective effect of exogenous melatonin on testicular histopathology and histomorphometry of adult rats with domperidone-induced hyperprolactinemia. Reprod Biol 2023; 23:100791. [PMID: 37517145 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2023.100791] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Hyperprolactinemia is a pathological condition resulting from increased prolactin that directly affects reproduction, as this condition inhibits the release of LH, FSH and gonadal steroidogenesis, bringing several negative clinical associations in reproduction. In contrast, melatonin (MEL) plays an important role in the regulation of steroidogenesis and modulates damages to the process of spermatogenesis. The objective was to analyze the protective effects of exogenous melatonin on the testis of hyperprolactinemic adult rats. Forty-eight male rats were used, divided into two treatment periods: 30 and 60 days, each treatment was subdivided into three groups: Control, Hyper (hyperprolactinemia), and Hyper+MEL (hyperprolactinemia and melatonin). Treatment with melatonin was 200 μg/100 g, subcutaneously. Induction of hyperprolactinemia was obtained with a dose of 4 mg/kg of domperidone, subcutaneously. The results of the histopathology demonstrated that the animals in the Hyper group presented degeneration of germ cells when compared to the control. In addition, the degenerations were presented in smaller quantities in the Hyper+MEL, in both treatment periods, evidencing the benefits of the melatonin in gonadal regeneration. The Hyper group of both treatment periods showed a decrease in tubular diameter, epithelium height, and tubular area, in addition to a decrease in Sertoli cells, when compared to the control and the Hyper+MEL group. In conclusion, the hyperprolactinemia can affect the germinal epithelium and testicular microstructure; the exogenous melatonin has a protective effect against hyperprolactinemia, reducing testicular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José Anderson da Silva Gomes
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Bioscience Center, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | - João Vitor da Silva
- Anatomy Laboratory of the Academic Center of Vitória, Vitória de Santo Antão, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Luiz Henrique da Silva
- Anatomy Laboratory of the Academic Center of Vitória, Vitória de Santo Antão, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Bruno Mendes Tenorio
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Bioscience Center, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Moraes Valença
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
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Huang X, Liu X, Zhang X, Yang Y, Gao H, Gao J, Bao H, Zhao L, Yang G, Zhang Y, Liu D. The long noncoding RNA CIRBIL is a regulator of steroidogenesis in mice. Reprod Biol 2023; 23:100783. [PMID: 37336146 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2023.100783] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Infertility affects roughly 8-12 % of couples worldwide, and in above 50 % of couples, male factors are the primary or contributing cause. Many long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are detected in the testis, but their functions are not well understood. CIRBIL was 862 nucleotides in length and was found to be localized mostly in the cytosol of Leydig cell, a small portion was positioned inside the seminiferous tubules. Loss of CIRBIL in mice resulted in male subfertility, characterized by smaller testis and increased germ cell apoptosis. Deletion of CIRBIL significant decreased the number of sperm and impaired the integrity of sperm head and tail. In CIRBIL KO mice, testosterone levels in serum and expression of testosterone biosynthesis genes (STAR and 3β-HSD) were both reduced. Gene Ontology (GO) term and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway were primarily enriched in steroid synthesis process in CIRBIL-binding proteins. Protein-protein (PPI) interaction networks revealed that both cis- and trans-regulated target genes of CIRBIL were associated with testosterone synthesis. Collectively, our results strongly suggest that CIRBIL is a regulator of steroid hormone synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Huang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150086, PR China
| | - Xin Liu
- The Department of Histology and Embryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, PR China
| | - Xiaofang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150086, PR China
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150086, PR China
| | - Haiyu Gao
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150086, PR China
| | - Jianjun Gao
- The Department of Hepatopancreatobility, Surgery Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 150086, PR China
| | - Hairong Bao
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150086, PR China
| | - Lexin Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150086, PR China
| | - Guohui Yang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150086, PR China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150086, PR China; North Translational Medicine Research Cooperation Center, 2019 Research Unit 070, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150086, PR China.
| | - Donghua Liu
- The Department of Histology and Embryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, PR China.
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Ye X, Chen L. Protective role of autophagy in triptolide-induced apoptosis of TM3 Leydig cells. J Transl Int Med 2023; 11:265-274. [PMID: 37662886 PMCID: PMC10474888 DOI: 10.2478/jtim-2021-0051] [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] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Triptolide (TP) is known to impair testicular development and spermatogenesis in mammals, but the mechanism of the side effects still needs to be investigated. The aim of the research is to confirm whether TP can cause autophagy in TM3 Leydig cells and the potential molecular pathway in vitro. Methods TM3 Leydig cells are used to investigate the molecular pathway through Western blot, detection of apoptosis, transmission electron microscopy for autophagosomes and so on. Results The data show that TP treatment resulted in the decreasing of the viability of TM3 cells due to the increased apoptosis. Treated with TP, the formation of autophagosomes, the decrease in P62, and the increase in the conversion of LC3-I to LC3-II suggested the induction of autophagy. The induction of autophagy has accompanied the activation of the mTOR/P70S6K signal pathway. The viability of the TM3 cells was further inhibited when they were co-treated with autophagy inhibitor, chloroquine (CQ). Conclusion All these data suggest that autophagy plays a very important role in antagonizing TM3 cell apoptosis during the TP exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyun Ye
- Medical Center of Reproductive and Genetics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing100034, China
| | - Liang Chen
- Medical Center of Reproductive and Genetics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing100034, China
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Younis N, Caldeira-Brant AL, Chu T, Abdalla S, Orwig KE. Human immature testicular tissue organ culture: a step towards fertility preservation and restoration. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1242263. [PMID: 37701899 PMCID: PMC10494240 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1242263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cryopreservation of immature testicular tissue (ITT) is currently the only option to preserve fertility of prepubertal patients. Autologous transplantation of ITT may not be safe or appropriate for all patients. Therefore, methods to mature ITT ex vivo are needed. Objectives Aim to investigate the feasibility of inducing in vitro spermatogenesis from ITT cryopreserved for pediatric patients prior to initiation of gonadotoxic therapy. Materials and methods Cryopreserved-thawed ITT from prepubertal and peripubertal patients were cultured for 7, 16, and 32 days in medium with no hormones or supplemented with 5 IU/L FSH, 1 IU/L hCG, or 5IU/L FSH+1 IU/L hCG. Samples were evaluated histologically to assess tissue integrity, and immunofluorescence staining was performed to identify VASA (DDX4)+ germ cells, UCHL1+ spermatogonia, SYCP3+ spermatocytes, CREM+ spermatids, SOX9+ Sertoli cells. Proliferation (KI67) and apoptosis (CASPASE3) of germ cells and Sertoli cells were also analyzed. Sertoli and Leydig cell maturation was evaluated by AR and INSL3 expression as well as expression of the blood testis barrier protein, CLAUDIN11, and testosterone secretion in the culture medium. Results Integrity of seminiferous tubules, VASA+ germ cells and SOX9+ Sertoli cells were maintained up to 32 days. The number of VASA+ germ cells was consistently higher in the peripubertal groups. UCHL1+ undifferentiated spermatogonia and SOX9+ Sertoli cell proliferation was confirmed in most samples. SYCP3+ primary spermatocytes began to appear by day 16 in both age groups. Sertoli cell maturation was demonstrated by AR expression but the expression of CLAUDIN11 was disorganized. Presence of mature and functional Leydig cells was verified by INSL3 expression and secretion of testosterone. Gonadotropin treatments did not consistently impact the number or proliferation of germ cells or somatic cells, but FSH was necessary to increase testosterone secretion over time in prepubertal samples. Conclusion ITT were maintained in organotypic culture for up to 32 days and spermatogonia differentiated to produce primary spermatocytes in both pre- and peripubertal age groups. However, complete spermatogenesis was not observed in either group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagham Younis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Andre L. Caldeira-Brant
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Tianjiao Chu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Shtaywy Abdalla
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Kyle E. Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Tian S, Tu C, He X, Meng L, Wang J, Tang S, Gao Y, Liu C, Wu H, Zhou Y, Lv M, Lin G, Jin L, Cao Y, Tang D, Zhang F, Tan YQ. Biallelic mutations in CFAP54 cause male infertility with severe MMAF and NOA. J Med Genet 2023; 60:827-834. [PMID: 36593121 DOI: 10.1136/jmg-2022-108887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenic impairments can lead to male infertility by different pathological conditions, such as multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella (MMAF) and non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). Genetic factors are involved in impaired spermatogenesis. METHODS AND RESULTS Here, we performed genetic analyses through whole-exome sequencing in a cohort of 334 Han Chinese probands with severe MMAF or NOA. Biallelic variants of CFAP54 were identified in three unrelated men, including one homozygous frameshift variant (c.3317del, p.Phe1106Serfs*19) and two compound heterozygous variants (c.878G>A, p.Arg293His; c.955C>T, p.Arg319Cys and c.4885C>T, p.Arg1629Cys; c.937G>A, p.Gly313Arg). All of the identified variants were absent or extremely rare in the public human genome databases and predicted to be damaging by bioinformatic tools. The men harbouring CFAP54 mutations exhibited abnormal sperm morphology, reduced sperm concentration and motility in ejaculated semen. Significant axoneme disorganisation and other ultrastructure abnormities were also detected inside the sperm cells from men harbouring CFAP54 mutations. Furthermore, immunofluorescence assays showed remarkably reduced staining of four flagellar assembly-associated proteins (IFT20, IFT52, IFT122 and SPEF2) in the spermatozoa of CFAP54-deficient men. Notably, favourable clinical pregnancy outcomes were achieved with sperm from men carrying CFAP54 mutations after intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment. CONCLUSION Our genetic analyses and experimental observations revealed that biallelic deleterious mutations of CFAP54 can induce severe MMAF and NOA in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shixiong Tian
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaofeng Tu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaojin He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Lanlan Meng
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Jiaxiong Wang
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Shuyan Tang
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Gao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Chunyu Liu
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huan Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yiling Zhou
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingrong Lv
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ge Lin
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Li Jin
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Dongdong Tang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue-Qiu Tan
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
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Zhang X, Zuo Y, Zhang J, Zhang D, Naeem M, Chang Y, Shi Z. Sevoflurane inhibited reproductive function in male mice by reducing oxidative phosphorylation through inducing iron deficiency. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1184632. [PMID: 37346174 PMCID: PMC10279888 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1184632] [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: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Sevoflurane (Sev) is one of the commonly used inhalation anesthetic chemicals in clinics. It has great impact on spermatogenesis and fertilization in male animals. The underlying mechanism remains largely unexplored. Based on our previous research, we hypothesized that Sev induced iron metabolism disturbance in the testis and epididymis and inhibited the spermatogenesis. In this study, two-month-old C57BL/6 male mice were treated with 3% Sev for 6 h, and their fertility (including sperm concentration, sperm mobility, and the number of offspring) was evaluated. Mice testis, epididymis, and sperm were harvested and subjected to Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence analysis. Iron levels were reflected by the gene expression of iron metabolism-related proteins (including ferritin, TfR1, and FpN1) and ICP-MS and Perl's iron staining. Electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation levels were measured by Oxygraph-2k and ATP contents. The activity of ribonucleotide reductase was evaluated by assay kit. DNA synthesis status in testis and/or epididymis was marked with BrdU. Cell proliferation was evaluated by double immunofluorescence staining of specific protein marker expression. Our results revealed that the mice exposed to Sev showed damaged testicular and epididymis structure and significantly reduced the sperm concentration, sperm motility, and fertility. Sev decreases the iron levels through down-regulating the expression of H-ferritin, L-ferritin, and FpN1, and up-regulating the expression of TfR1 in the testis and epididymis. Iron levels also significantly reduced in germ cells which decrease the number of germ cells, including sperm, Sertoli cells, and primary spermatocyte. Iron deficiency not only decreases electron transport, oxidative phosphorylation level, and ATP production but also suppresses the activity of ribonucleotide reductase and the expression of Ki67, DDX4, GATA1, and SCP3, indicating that Sev affects the spermatogenesis and development. Meanwhile, Sev impaired the blood-testis barrier by decreasing the ZO1 expression in the testis and epididymis. The damage effect induced by Sev can be significantly ameliorated by iron supplementation. In conclusion, our study illustrates a new mechanism by which Sev inhibits spermatogenesis and fertility through an oxidative phosphorylation pathway due to iron deficiency of epididymis and testis or sperm. Furthermore, the damaging effects could be ameliorated by iron supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Zhenhua Shi
- *Correspondence: Jianhua Zhang, ; Zhenhua Shi,
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