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Daskalova E, Pencheva M, Denev P. Black Chokeberry ( Aronia melanocarpa) Juice Supplementation Improves Oxidative Stress and Aging Markers in Testis of Aged Rats. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:4452-4470. [PMID: 38785538 PMCID: PMC11119763 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46050270] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a process that continues until the end of an individual's life, although with reduced activity with advancing age. Inflammation, oxidation, and apoptosis are events considered as predictors of pathogenesis and the development of age-related diseases observed in aged testes. The use of natural compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties has a beneficial effect on the inflammatory and oxidative status of the aged testis. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of supplementation with antioxidant-rich black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) juice on several markers of oxidative stress and aging in rat testis. In total, 24 male Wistar rats were divided into three experimental groups: young controls aged 2 months, old controls aged 27 months, and 27-month-old rats supplemented with black chokeberry juice at a dose of 10 mL/kg for 3 months. A. melanocarpa juice supplementation led to reduced oxidative stress, manifested by increased immunoexpression of nNOS, eNOS, and MAS1 in the seminiferous tubules and in the Leydig cells. The morphometrically determined tubule structure data showed no significant differences between the three groups. However, the intensity of the immunoreaction for TRK-C and NT3 in Leydig cells was demonstrably higher in the supplemented old animals compared with the old controls. There was a significantly higher number of blood vessels around the seminiferous tubules in the supplemented animals compared to the old controls. These data indicate that supplementation with A. melanocarpa juice slows down aging processes in the testis and preserves the functional activity of Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Daskalova
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Medical University-Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria;
| | - Mina Pencheva
- Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University-Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria;
| | - Petko Denev
- Laboratory of Biologically Active Substances, Institute of Organic Chemistry with Centre of Phytochemistry, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 139 Ruski Blvd., 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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Du S, Zhao J, Chou X, Peng J, Cao Q, Zeng Y, Ao L, Wang X. Testosterone does not mediate the correlation between dietary inflammation and serum klotho levels among males: insights from NHANES database. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1370457. [PMID: 38633753 PMCID: PMC11022595 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1370457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Serum Klotho (S-Klotho) is a transmembrane protein holds pivotal roles in anti-aging. The Dietary Inflammation Index (DII), a meticulously dietary tool, quantifies the inflammatory potential of an individual's diet. The existing research strongly suggests that a low DII diet plays a significant role in delaying aging and reducing aging-related symptoms in males. Testosterone could potentially act as a mediating intermediary between DII and S-Klotho. However, this aspect remains unexplored. This study aims to investigate the potential causal link of testosterone between DII and S-Klotho in males. Methods We utilized data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) which focused on male participants from 2013-2016. Mediation analyses were used to investigate the effects of testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), and free androgen index (FAI) on the DII-S-Klotho relationship, using three modes adjusting for covariates. Results Mediation analysis unveiled a significant inverse correlation between DII and S-Klotho levels (model 1: c = -14.78, p = 0.046). The interaction between DII and S-Klotho was modulated by TT in model 1 (ab = -1.36; 95% CI: -5.59, -0.55; p = 0.008), but lost significance after adjustments (model 2: ab = -0.39; 95% CI: -4.15, 1.66; p = 0.378; model 3: ab = -0.59; 95% CI: -4.08, 2.15; p = 0.442). For FT, the mediating impact was not statistically significant (model 1: ab = 0.43; 95% CI: -0.51, 5.44; p = 0.188; model 2: ab = 0.72; 95% CI: -0.26, 5.91; p = 0.136; model 3: ab = 0.84; 95% CI: -0.02, 8.06; p = 0.056). Conversely, FAI consistently influenced the DII-S-Klotho relationship (model 1: ab = 2.39; 95% CI: 0.69, 9.42; p = 0.002), maintaining significance after adjustments (model 2: ab = 3.2; 95% CI: 0.98, 11.72; p = 0.004; model 3: ab = 3.15; 95% CI: 0.89, 14.51; p = 0.026). Discussion This study observed no mediating influence of TT or FT on the correlation between DII and S-Klotho after covariate control. Remarkably, FAI continued to significantly mediate the DII-S-Klotho connection even following covariate adjustment, although its significance in males warrants careful consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Du
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jieyi Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xinyue Chou
- Innovation Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Jingyu Peng
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qi Cao
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yimiao Zeng
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lu Ao
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Ma JY, Xia TJ, Li S, Yin S, Luo SM, Li G. Germline cell de novo mutations and potential effects of inflammation on germline cell genome stability. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 154:316-327. [PMID: 36376195 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.11.003] [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: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Uncontrolled pathogenic genome mutations in germline cells might impair adult fertility, lead to birth defects or even affect the adaptability of a species. Understanding the sources of DNA damage, as well as the features of damage response in germline cells are the overarching tasks to reduce the mutations in germline cells. With the accumulation of human genome data and genetic reports, genome variants formed in germline cells are being extensively explored. However, the sources of DNA damage, the damage repair mechanisms, and the effects of DNA damage or mutations on the development of germline cells are still unclear. Besides exogenous triggers of DNA damage such as irradiation and genotoxic chemicals, endogenous exposure to inflammation may also contribute to the genome instability of germline cells. In this review, we summarized the features of de novo mutations and the specific DNA damage responses in germline cells and explored the possible roles of inflammation on the genome stability of germline cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Yu Ma
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Tian-Jin Xia
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China; College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shuai Li
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Methodology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shen Yin
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China.
| | - Shi-Ming Luo
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Guowei Li
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Methodology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China.
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Parajuli P, Craig DB, Gadgeel M, Bagla S, Wright RE, Chu R, Shanti CM, Thirunagari R, Grover SK, Ravindranath Y. Defective monocyte plasticity and altered cAMP pathway characterize USB1-mutated poikiloderma with neutropenia Clericuzio type. Br J Haematol 2024; 204:683-693. [PMID: 37779259 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.19128] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Poikiloderma with neutropenia (PN) Clericuzio type (OMIM #604173) is a rare disease with areas of skin hyper- and hypopigmentation caused by biallelic USB1 variants. The current study was spurred by poor healing of a perianal tear wound in one affected child homozygous for c.266-1G>A (p.E90Sfster8) mutation, from a family reported previously. Treatment with G-CSF/CSF3 or GM-CSF/CSF2 transiently increased neutrophil/monocytes count with no effect on wound healing. Analysis of peripheral blood revealed a lack of non-classical (CD14+/- CD16+ ) monocytes, associated with a systemic inflammatory cytokine profile, in the two affected brothers. Importantly, despite normal expression of cognate receptors, monocytes from PN patients did not respond to M-CSF or IL-34 in vitro, as determined by cytokine secretion or CD16 expression. RNAseq of monocytes showed 293 differentially expressed genes, including significant downregulation of GATA2, AKAP6 and PDE4DIP that are associated with leucocyte differentiation and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signalling. Notably, the plasma cAMP was significantly low in the PN patients. Our study revealed a novel association of PN with a lack of non-classical monocyte population. The defects in monocyte plasticity may contribute to disease manifestations in PN and a defective cAMP signalling may be the primary effect of the splicing errors caused by USB1 mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prahlad Parajuli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Michigan, Detroit, USA
| | - Douglas B Craig
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Michigan, Detroit, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Manisha Gadgeel
- Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, USA
| | - Shruti Bagla
- Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Robert E Wright
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Roland Chu
- Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, USA
| | - Christina M Shanti
- Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Rajeev Thirunagari
- Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Sudershan K Grover
- Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Yaddanapudi Ravindranath
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Michigan, Detroit, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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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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Xing D, Jin Y, Jin B. A narrative review on inflammaging and late-onset hypogonadism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1291389. [PMID: 38298378 PMCID: PMC10827931 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1291389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The increasing life expectancy observed in recent years has resulted in a higher prevalence of late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) in older men. LOH is characterized by the decline in testosterone levels and can have significant impacts on physical and mental health. While the underlying causes of LOH are not fully understood, there is a growing interest in exploring the role of inflammaging in its development. Inflammaging is a concept that describes the chronic, low-grade, systemic inflammation that occurs as a result of aging. This inflammatory state has been implicated in the development of various age-related diseases. Several cellular and molecular mechanisms have been identified as contributors to inflammaging, including immune senescence, cellular senescence, autophagy defects, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Despite the extensive research on inflammaging, its relationship with LOH has not yet been thoroughly reviewed in the literature. To address this gap, we aim to review the latest findings related to inflammaging and its impact on the development of LOH. Additionally, we will explore interventions that target inflammaging as potential treatments for LOH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Xing
- Medical College of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yihan Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Baofang Jin
- Andrology Department of Integrative Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Xie J, Wang J, Shao J, Fang H, Liu Y, Xiao X, Wen X, Guan X, Su Z, Duan P, Chen H, Chen C. Transcriptomic characterization of interactions between sodium selenite and coenzyme Q10 on preventing cadmium-induced testicular defects. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 182:114180. [PMID: 37967787 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.114180] [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: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
The effect of heavy metal cadmium (Cd) on testicular function is recognized. However, the mechanism involved is not well-established. In the present study, we analyzed the testicular transcriptomic changes induced by acute Cd exposure of adult rats with and without supplementation of antioxidants selenium (Se) and/or coenzyme Q10 (CoQ). Cd significantly decreased serum testosterone and two steroidogenic proteins SCARB1 and STAR. RNA-Seq analyses of testicular RNAs revealed specific activation of oxidative stress-, inflammation-, MAPK- and NF-κB-related signaling molecules. In addition, Cd treatment down-regulated gene for I, III and IV complexes of mitochondrial electron transport chain and up-regulated genes for NADPH-oxidase, major cascade in ROS production. The decrease in steroidogenesis and increase in inflammation may result from oxidative stress since supplementation of Se and CoQ, but not with either alone, almost completely prevented these changes, including overall alterations in transcriptome. Cd exposure induced total of 1192 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which was reduced to 29 without considering confounding factors associated with Se/CoQ, a 97.6% protection rate. In conclusion, Cd exposure inhibited Leydig cell steroidogenesis by down-regulating SCARB1 and STAR through increasing oxidative stress and inflammation, but Se plus CoQ synergistically prevented all the changes induced by the Cd exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Xie
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiexia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital andYuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingjing Shao
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hangping Fang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital andYuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yijia Liu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xue Xiao
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Wen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital andYuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoju Guan
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhijian Su
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Duan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital andYuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haolin Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital andYuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Congde Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Abu-Khudir R, Badr GM, Abd El-Moaty HI, Hamad RS, Al Abdulsalam NK, Abdelrahem ASA, Alqarni S, Alkuwayti MA, Salam SA, Abd El-Kareem HF. Garden Cress Seed Oil Abrogates Testicular Oxidative Injury and NF-kB-Mediated Inflammation in Diabetic Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15478. [PMID: 37895159 PMCID: PMC10607464 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015478] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder associated with various complications encompassing male reproductive dysfunction. The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of biologically active Lepidium sativum seed oil (LSO) against the testicular dysfunction associated with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. Male adults (n = 24) were divided into four groups: control, LSO-administered, diabetic (D), and LSO-treated diabetic (D+LSO) groups. LSO was extracted from L. sativum seeds, and its chemical composition was determined using GC-MS. Serum testosterone levels, testicular enzymatic antioxidants (catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)), an oxidative stress (OS) biomarker, malondialdehyde (MDA), pro-inflammatory markers (NF-kB, IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α), and the expression level of NF-kB were assessed. In addition, histopathological changes were evaluated in testicular tissues. The results obtained showed that the chemical composition of LSO indicated its enrichment mainly with γ-tocopherol (62.1%), followed by 2-methylhexacosane (8.12%), butylated hydroxytoluene (8.04%), 10-Methylnonadecane (4.81%), and δ-tocopherol (3.91%). Moreover, LSO administration in the D+LSO mice significantly increased testosterone levels and ameliorated the observed testicular oxidative damage, inflammatory response, and reduced NF-kB expression compared to the diabetic mice. Biochemical and molecular analyses confirmed the histological results. In conclusion, LSO may prevent the progression of diabetes-induced impairment in the testes through inhibition of the OS- and NF-kB-mediated inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha Abu-Khudir
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 380, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry Division, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Gehan M. Badr
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt; (G.M.B.); (H.F.A.E.-K.)
| | - Heba Ibrahim Abd El-Moaty
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 380, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (H.I.A.E.-M.); (R.S.H.); (N.K.A.A.); (M.A.A.)
- Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Department, Desert Research Center El-Mataria, Cairo 11753, Egypt
| | - Rabab S. Hamad
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 380, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (H.I.A.E.-M.); (R.S.H.); (N.K.A.A.); (M.A.A.)
- Central Laboratory, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza 12411, Egypt
| | - Najla K. Al Abdulsalam
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 380, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (H.I.A.E.-M.); (R.S.H.); (N.K.A.A.); (M.A.A.)
| | - Aml Sayed Ali Abdelrahem
- Department of Nursing, College of Applied Medical Science, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 380, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Saleha Alqarni
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, College of Applied Medical Science King Faisal University, P.O. Box 380, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mayyadah Abdullah Alkuwayti
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 380, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (H.I.A.E.-M.); (R.S.H.); (N.K.A.A.); (M.A.A.)
| | - Sherine Abdel Salam
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21511, Egypt;
| | - Hanaa F. Abd El-Kareem
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt; (G.M.B.); (H.F.A.E.-K.)
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Cui H, Culty M. Do macrophages play a role in the adverse effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on testicular functions? FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2023; 5:1242634. [PMID: 37720385 PMCID: PMC10501733 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2023.1242634] [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: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
During the past decades, several endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have been confirmed to affect male reproductive function and fertility in animal studies. EDCs are suspected to exert similar effects in humans, based on strong associations between levels of antiandrogenic EDCs in pregnant women and adverse reproductive effects in infants. Testicular macrophages (tMΦ) play a vital role in modulating immunological privilege and maintaining normal testicular homeostasis as well as fetal development. Although tMΦ were not historically studied in the context of endocrine disruption, they have emerged as potential targets to consider due to their critical role in regulating cells such as spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and Leydig cells. Few studies have examined the impact of EDCs on the ability of testicular cells to communicate and regulate each other's functions. In this review, we recapitulate what is known about tMΦ functions and interactions with other cell types in the testis that support spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. We also surveyed the literature for reports on the effects of the EDCs genistein and DEHP on tMΦ, SSCs, Sertoli and Leydig cells. Our goal is to explore the possibility that EDC disruption of tMΦ interactions with other cell types may play a role in their adverse effects on testicular developmental programming and functions. This approach will highlight gaps of knowledge, which, once resolved, should improve the risk assessment of EDC exposure and the development of safeguards to protect male reproductive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martine Culty
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Moreira R, Martins AD, Alves MG, de Lourdes Pereira M, Oliveira PF. A Comprehensive Review of the Impact of Chromium Picolinate on Testicular Steroidogenesis and Antioxidant Balance. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1572. [PMID: 37627567 PMCID: PMC10451325 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Low testosterone (T) levels are a major cause of male infertility, as this hormone is crucial for several processes throughout the entire male reproductive tract. Leydig cells (LC) produce T through testicular steroidogenesis. Disrupted LC function can hinder steroid production and fertility. Among the factors that affect steroidogenesis, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) raise concerns, as they disturb hormonal signaling. Chromium is classified as an EDC, and its main forms are hexavalent (Cr(VI)) and trivalent chromium (Cr(III)). While Cr(III) is controversially regarded as an essential metal, its compound Cr(III) picolinate (CrPic3) is used as a nutritional supplement due to its antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. This review aims to identify the possible effects of CrPic3 on testicular steroidogenesis and thus, on male fertility. The detriments caused by CrPic3 in LC include the inhibition of enzymes involved in steroidogenesis, and, as in other cells, the induction of mutagenesis and apoptosis. Remarkably, CrPic3 impacts male fertility through the alteration of reactive oxygen species (ROS), T levels, and sperm parameters (sperm motility and abnormal sperm count). However, gaps and inconsistencies exist in the literature concerning its effects on male fertility. Thus, further research is imperative to comprehend the underlying mechanisms of CrPic3 in the physiological processes relevant to male fertility, ensuring the supplement's safety for use by men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rúben Moreira
- Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (R.M.); (A.D.M.)
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana D. Martins
- Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (R.M.); (A.D.M.)
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marco G. Alves
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Pedro F. Oliveira
- Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (R.M.); (A.D.M.)
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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11
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Monageng E, Offor U, Takalani NB, Mohlala K, Opuwari CS. A Review on the Impact of Oxidative Stress and Medicinal Plants on Leydig Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1559. [PMID: 37627554 PMCID: PMC10451682 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081559] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Leydig cells are essential for steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. An imbalance in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the cellular antioxidant level brings about oxidative stress. Oxidative stress (OS) results in the dysfunction of Leydig cells, thereby impairing steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and ultimately, male infertility. To prevent Leydig cells from oxidative insults, there needs to be a balance between the ROS production and the cellular protective capacity of antioxidants. Evidence indicates that medicinal plants could improve Leydig cell function at specific concentrations under basal or OS conditions. The increased usage of medicinal plants has been considered a possible alternative treatment for male infertility. This review aims to provide an overview of the impact of oxidative stress on Leydig cells as well as the effects of various medicinal plant extracts on TM3 Leydig cells. The medicinal plants of interest include Aspalathus linearis, Camellia sinensis, Moringa oleifera, Morinda officinale, Taraxacum officinale, Trichilia emetica, Terminalia sambesiaca, Peltophorum africanum, Ximenia caffra, Serenoa repens, Zingiber officinale, Eugenia jambolana, and a combination of dandelion and fermented rooibos (CRS-10). According to the findings obtained from studies conducted on the evaluated medicinal plants, it can, therefore, be concluded that the medicinal plants maintain the antioxidant profile of Leydig cells under basal conditions and have protective or restorative effects following exposure to oxidative stress. The available data suggest that the protective role exhibited by the evaluated plants may be attributed to their antioxidant content. Additionally, the use of the optimal dosage or concentration of the extracts in the management of oxidative stress is of the utmost importance, and the measurement of their oxidation reduction potential is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Monageng
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Ugochukwu Offor
- School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
| | - Ndivhuho Beauty Takalani
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Kutullo Mohlala
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Chinyerum Sylvia Opuwari
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
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12
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Altered transcriptomic and metabolomic profiles of testicular interstitial fluid during aging in mice. Theriogenology 2023; 200:86-95. [PMID: 36773384 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.004] [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: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The testicular interstitial fluid (TIF) that bathes seminiferous tubules and testicular interstitial cells is the main microenvironment of the testis and involved in crosstalk between testicular cells. TIF also provides a new mean to investigate dysfunctional states of testis such as spermatogenic disorder and aging. In this study, we performed integrative omics analysis on the exosomal transcriptomics and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) based non-targeted metabolomics in TIF by comparison between 21-month-old and 3-month-old male mice. A total of 1627 genes were identified as aging-related differently expressed genes (DEGs) in mouse TIF exosomes, with 1139 downregulated and 488 upregulated. Functional and pathway analysis revealed that the DEGs were associated with oxidative stress, carbon metabolism, and systemic lupus erythematosus. By comparing the DEGs with the Aging Atlas Database, we screened out key aging-related genes functioning as oxidative stress regulators, and their expression pattern in human testis with age was confirmed by immunohistochemistry results in the Human Protein Atlas database. In addition, the metabolomic analysis identified mild differences between young and old groups with 28 downregulated differently expressed metabolites (DEMs) and 6 upregulated DEMs, in the negative ion mode, including decreased level of several antioxidant metabolites. The KEGG analysis demonstrated that 10 pathways were upregulated, while the pyrimidine metabolism pathway was downregulated in the aged mice TIF. Taken together, this study highlighted the prominent role of oxidative stress that contributed to the aging microenvironment in the TIF, and brought comprehensive transcriptomic and metabolomic perspectives for understanding the mechanism underlying the testicular aging.
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13
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Gu X, Heinrich A, Li SY, DeFalco T. Testicular macrophages are recruited during a narrow fetal time window and promote organ-specific developmental functions. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1439. [PMID: 36922518 PMCID: PMC10017703 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37199-0] [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: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
A growing body of evidence demonstrates that fetal-derived tissue-resident macrophages have developmental functions. It has been proposed that macrophages promote testicular functions, but which macrophage populations are involved is unclear. Previous studies showed that macrophages play critical roles in fetal testis morphogenesis and described two adult testicular macrophage populations, interstitial and peritubular. There has been debate regarding the hematopoietic origins of testicular macrophages and whether distinct macrophage populations promote specific testicular functions. Here our hematopoietic lineage-tracing studies in mice show that yolk-sac-derived macrophages comprise the earliest testicular macrophages, while fetal hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) generate monocytes that colonize the gonad during a narrow time window in a Sertoli-cell-dependent manner and differentiate into adult testicular macrophages. Finally, we show that yolk-sac-derived versus HSC-derived macrophages have distinct functions during testis morphogenesis, while interstitial macrophages specifically promote adult Leydig cell steroidogenesis. Our findings provide insight into testicular macrophage origins and their tissue-specific roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Gu
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Anna Heinrich
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Shu-Yun Li
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Tony DeFalco
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA.
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14
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Smith SJ, Lopresti AL, Fairchild TJ. The effects of alcohol on testosterone synthesis in men: a review. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2023; 18:155-166. [PMID: 36880700 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2023.2184797] [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: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Testosterone concentrations in men decline with advancing age, with low testosterone concentrations being associated with multiple morbidities, an increased risk of early mortality, and a reduced quality of life. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of alcohol on testosterone synthesis in men by investigating its effects on each level of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. AREAS COVERED Acute consumption of a low-to-moderate amount of alcohol increases testosterone concentrations in men, while consumption of a large volume of alcohol is associated with a reduction in serum testosterone concentrations. Elevated testosterone concentrations result from the increased activity of detoxification enzymes in the liver. Conversely, the primary mechanisms of action involved in the reduction of testosterone are increased hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity, inflammation, and oxidative stress. When alcohol is consumed in excess, particularly chronically, it negatively affects testosterone production in men. EXPERT OPINION Since testosterone is an important component of men's health and wellbeing, current levels of alcohol consumption in many countries of the world require urgent attention. Elucidating the relationship between alcohol consumption and testosterone may be useful in identifying strategies to attenuate the testosterone-reducing effects of excessive or chronic alcohol consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen James Smith
- Clinical Research Australia, Perth, Australia
- The Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Adrian Leo Lopresti
- Clinical Research Australia, Perth, Australia
- The Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Timothy John Fairchild
- The Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
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15
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Costa GMJ, Lacerda SMSN, Figueiredo AFA, Wnuk NT, Brener MRG, Andrade LM, Campolina-Silva GH, Kauffmann-Zeh A, Pacifico LGG, Versiani AF, Antunes MM, Souza FR, Cassali GD, Caldeira-Brant AL, Chiarini-Garcia H, de Souza FG, Costa VV, da Fonseca FG, Nogueira ML, Campos GRF, Kangussu LM, Martins EMN, Antonio LM, Bittar C, Rahal P, Aguiar RS, Mendes BP, Procópio MS, Furtado TP, Guimaraes YL, Menezes GB, Martinez-Marchal A, Orwig KE, Brieño-Enríquez M, Furtado MH. High SARS-CoV-2 tropism and activation of immune cells in the testes of non-vaccinated deceased COVID-19 patients. BMC Biol 2023; 21:36. [PMID: 36797789 PMCID: PMC9933832 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01497-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cellular entry of SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to rely on angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors, whose expression in the testis is among the highest in the body. Additionally, the risk of mortality seems higher among male COVID-19 patients, and though much has been published since the first cases of COVID-19, there remain unanswered questions regarding SARS-CoV-2 impact on testes and potential consequences for reproductive health. We investigated testicular alterations in non-vaccinated deceased COVID-19-patients, the precise location of the virus, its replicative activity, and the immune, vascular, and molecular fluctuations involved in the pathogenesis. RESULTS We found that SARS-CoV-2 testicular tropism is higher than previously thought and that reliable viral detection in the testis requires sensitive nanosensors or RT-qPCR using a specific methodology. Through an in vitro experiment exposing VERO cells to testicular macerates, we observed viral content in all samples, and the subgenomic RNA's presence reinforced the replicative activity of SARS-CoV-2 in testes of the severe COVID-19 patients. The cellular structures and viral particles, observed by transmission electron microscopy, indicated that macrophages and spermatogonial cells are the main SARS-CoV-2 lodging sites, where new virions form inside the endoplasmic reticulum Golgi intermediate complex. Moreover, we showed infiltrative infected monocytes migrating into the testicular parenchyma. SARS-CoV-2 maintains its replicative and infective abilities long after the patient's infection. Further, we demonstrated high levels of angiotensin II and activated immune cells in the testes of deceased patients. The infected testes show thickening of the tunica propria, germ cell apoptosis, Sertoli cell barrier loss, evident hemorrhage, angiogenesis, Leydig cell inhibition, inflammation, and fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that high angiotensin II levels and activation of mast cells and macrophages may be critical for testicular pathogenesis. Importantly, our findings suggest that patients who become critically ill may exhibit severe alterations and harbor the active virus in the testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme M. J. Costa
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Samyra M. S. N. Lacerda
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - André F. A. Figueiredo
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Natália T. Wnuk
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Marcos R. G. Brener
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Lídia M. Andrade
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Alice F. Versiani
- grid.419029.70000 0004 0615 5265Faculdade de Medicina de São Jose do Rio Preto, São Jose do Rio Preto, SP Brazil ,grid.176731.50000 0001 1547 9964Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX USA
| | - Maísa M. Antunes
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Fernanda R. Souza
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Geovanni D. Cassali
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - André L. Caldeira-Brant
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil ,grid.21925.3d0000 0004 1936 9000Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Women’s Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Hélio Chiarini-Garcia
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Fernanda G. de Souza
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Vivian V. Costa
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Flavio G. da Fonseca
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Maurício L. Nogueira
- grid.419029.70000 0004 0615 5265Faculdade de Medicina de São Jose do Rio Preto, São Jose do Rio Preto, SP Brazil ,grid.176731.50000 0001 1547 9964Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX USA
| | - Guilherme R. F. Campos
- grid.419029.70000 0004 0615 5265Faculdade de Medicina de São Jose do Rio Preto, São Jose do Rio Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Lucas M. Kangussu
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Estefânia M. N. Martins
- grid.466576.00000 0004 0635 4678Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear-CDTN/CNEN, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Loudiana M. Antonio
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Cintia Bittar
- grid.410543.70000 0001 2188 478XUniversidade Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Paula Rahal
- grid.410543.70000 0001 2188 478XUniversidade Estadual Paulista, São José do Rio Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Renato S. Aguiar
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Yuri L. Guimaraes
- Clínica MF Fertilidade Masculina, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil ,Departamentos de Urologia e de Reprodução Humana da Rede Mater Dei de Saúde, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Gustavo B. Menezes
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Ana Martinez-Marchal
- grid.21925.3d0000 0004 1936 9000Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Women’s Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Kyle E. Orwig
- grid.21925.3d0000 0004 1936 9000Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Women’s Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Miguel Brieño-Enríquez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, USA.
| | - Marcelo H. Furtado
- Clínica MF Fertilidade Masculina, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil ,Departamentos de Urologia e de Reprodução Humana da Rede Mater Dei de Saúde, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
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16
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Pimenta BL, Menezes TP, Louise V, Dias FCR, Machado BAA, Ribeiro L, Pinto KMDC, Talvani A. Protective effects of Theracurmin treatment during experimental infection of the Colombian strain of Trypanosoma cruzi at the testicular site. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1143360. [PMID: 37033490 PMCID: PMC10079985 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1143360] [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: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Chagas' disease is a tropical neglected illness caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and remains one of the most significant causes of morbidity and mortality in South and Central Americas. The disease is caused by a moderate to intense and persistent inflammatory response characterized by local upregulated expression and production of inflammatory mediators that favors the activation and recruitment of distinct cells of the immune system into different tissues to eliminate the parasites. Theracurmin is a curcumin's derived formulation of nanoparticles. Its anti-inflammatory properties make this bioactive compound a mitigating factor in pathological cases after an overwhelming inflammatory response. Methods Our research focused on the testicular investigation in 28 mice infected by 103 trypomastigote forms of Colombian strain of T. cruzi and preventively treated with Theracurmin. The mice were treated with 30 mg/Kg of Theracurmin during the period of 30 days. At the 30th day post infection animals were euthanized, and its testicles were collected to morphological and immunological assays. Results The animals infected and treated with Theracurmin presented a reduction in the testicular levels of IL-15 and IL-6. The volume density (%) of the tunica propria was also higher in all infected animals, but Theracurmin decreased this parameter in the treated animals. In the intertubular area, the percentage of some intertubular components was decreased in the infected animals such as the percentage and volume of Leydig cells, connective tissue, and macrophages. Discussion Furthermore, our data pointed to the daily use of Theracurmin in the diet as a protective element of the testicular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breno Luiz Pimenta
- Laboratory of Immunobiology of Inflammation, Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Post-Graduate Program, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Prata Menezes
- Laboratory of Immunobiology of Inflammation, Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Health and Nutrition Post-Graduate Program, School of Nutrition, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Andre Talvani, ; Tatiana Prata Menezes,
| | - Vitória Louise
- Laboratory of Immunobiology of Inflammation, Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Post-Graduate Program, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Health and Nutrition Post-Graduate Program, School of Nutrition, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Bianca Alves Almeida Machado
- Laboratory of Immunobiology of Inflammation, Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- School of Medicine, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lais Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Immunobiology of Inflammation, Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Post-Graduate Program, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Kelerson Mauro de Castro Pinto
- Laboratory of Immunobiology of Inflammation, Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Laboratory of Physiology of Exercise, School of Physical Education, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Andre Talvani
- Laboratory of Immunobiology of Inflammation, Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Post-Graduate Program, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Health and Nutrition Post-Graduate Program, School of Nutrition, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Andre Talvani, ; Tatiana Prata Menezes,
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17
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Carrageta DF, Guerra-Carvalho B, Spadella MA, Yeste M, Oliveira PF, Alves MG. Animal models of male reproductive ageing to study testosterone production and spermatogenesis. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2022; 23:1341-1360. [PMID: 35604584 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-022-09726-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Ageing is the time-dependent gradual decline of the functional characteristics in an organism. It has been shown that it results in the loss of reproductive health and fertility. The age-dependent decline of fertility is a potential issue as the parenthood age is increasing in Western countries, mostly due to socioeconomic factors. In comparison to women, for whom the consequences of ageing are well documented and general awareness of the population is extensively raised, the effects of ageing for male fertility and the consequences of advanced paternal age for the offspring have not been widely studied. Studies with humans are welcome but it is hard to implement relevant experimental approaches to unveil the molecular mechanisms by which ageing affects male reproductive potential. Animal models have thus been extensively used. These models are advantageous due to their reduced costs, general easy maintenance in laboratory facilities, rigorous manipulation tools, short lifespan, known genetic backgrounds, and reduced ethical constraints. Herein, we discuss animal models for the study of male reproductive ageing. The most well-known and studied reproductive ageing models are rodents and non-human primates. The data collected from these models, particularly studies on testicular ageing, steroidogenesis, and genetic and epigenetic changes in spermatogenesis are detailed. Notably, some species challenge the currently accepted ageing theories and the concept of senescence itself, which renders them interesting animal models for the study of male reproductive ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- David F Carrageta
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Guerra-Carvalho
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry, QOPNA & LAQV, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- Department of Chemistry, QOPNA & LAQV, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain.
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain.
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18
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Katleba K, Legacki E, Berger T. Expression of CSF1, AR, and SRD5A2 during Postnatal Development of the Boar Reproductive Tract. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12172167. [PMID: 36077888 PMCID: PMC9454667 DOI: 10.3390/ani12172167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Understanding the initial development of the male reproductive system, including the prostate, should provide insight into malfunctions in the adult male. Although changes in circulating androgens during development are characterized in multiple species, potential changes in the androgen receptor, in the enzyme that converts testosterone to the presumably more potent dihydrotestosterone, and in colony stimulating factor 1, a critical mediator of macrophage influence on organ development, were previously unknown and anticipated to be influenced by androgens and estrogens. Gene expression in the testis, prostate, and seminal vesicles of these three mediators of development, including responses to reduced testosterone or estrogens, were evaluated. Each of these three genes had a unique temporal pattern of expression during postnatal reproductive tract development. However, surprisingly minimal effects of altered steroid signaling were reported on the expression of these presumed pivotal genes. Abstract The male reproductive system develops from a minimally functioning gonad and nonfunctioning accessory sex glands in the neonate; sex steroids, presumed to be primary influencers of these changes, have been characterized in multiple species. This study focused on the expression of the androgen receptor as the principal mediator of androgen-induced signaling; the 5α reductase enzyme that converts testosterone to the more active dihydrotestosterone; and colony stimulating factor 1, a mediator of macrophage influence on organ development in the pig. The time points chosen to evaluate normal developmental changes during the juvenile and prepubertal intervals included the inflection time points of 6.5 weeks of age at the nadir of circulating estradiol and testosterone concentrations in juveniles, and 11 weeks of age, when these concentrations begin to increase. The role of sex steroid signaling in the regulation of gene expression was evaluated by the blockade of androgen and estrogen receptors and reduction in endogenous estrogens. Expression of colony stimulating factor 1 in the testes gradually decreased during development; developmental profiles in the prostate and seminal vesicles were clearly different. Interference with sex steroid signaling had no effect on the expression of these three genes in testicular tissue and minimal and transient effects in prostate and seminal vesicles.
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The Role of Adiponectin in the Resolution of Male-Obesity-Associated Secondary Hypogonadism after Metabolic Surgery and Its Impact on Cardiovascular Risk. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10082000. [PMID: 36009547 PMCID: PMC9405896 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10082000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Male-obesity-associated secondary hypogonadism (MOSH) is a very prevalent entity that may resolve after marked weight loss. Adiponectin (APN) is an adipokine with anti-inflammatory properties that regulates metabolism. Low-circulating APN is associated with obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular risk, along with circulating testosterone. We aimed to evaluate APN changes in men with MOSH (low circulating free testosterone (FT) with low or normal gonadotropins) and without it after metabolic surgery. We look for their possible association with cardiovascular risk measured by carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT). We included 60 men (20 submitted to lifestyle modification, 20 to sleeve gastrectomy, and 20 to gastric bypass) evaluated at baseline and 6 months after. The increase in APN at follow-up was reduction in patients with persistent MOSH (n = 10) vs. those without MOSH (n = 30) and MOSH resolution (n = 20), and the former did not achieve a decrease in cIMT. The increase in APN correlated positively with FT (r = 0.320, p = 0.013) and inversely with cIMT (r = −0.283, p = 0.028). FT inversely correlated with cIMT (r = −0.269, p = 0.038). In conclusion, men without MOSH or with MOSH resolution showed a high increase in APN after weight loss with beneficial effects on cIMT. Those without MOSH resolution failed to attain these effects.
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Adipose Tissue Dysfunction and Obesity-Related Male Hypogonadism. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158194. [PMID: 35897769 PMCID: PMC9330735 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a chronic illness associated with several metabolic derangements and comorbidities (i.e., insulin resistance, leptin resistance, diabetes, etc.) and often leads to impaired testicular function and male subfertility. Several mechanisms may indeed negatively affect the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal health, such as higher testosterone conversion to estradiol by aromatase activity in the adipose tissue, increased ROS production, and the release of several endocrine molecules affecting the hypothalamus–pituitary–testis axis by both direct and indirect mechanisms. In addition, androgen deficiency could further accelerate adipose tissue expansion and therefore exacerbate obesity, which in turn enhances hypogonadism, thus inducing a vicious cycle. Based on these considerations, we propose an overview on the relationship of adipose tissue dysfunction and male hypogonadism, highlighting the main biological pathways involved and the current therapeutic options to counteract this condition.
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21
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Tang XJ, Xiao QH, Wang XL, He Y, Tian YN, Xia BT, Guo Y, Huang JL, Duan P, Tan Y. Single-Cell Transcriptomics-Based Study of Transcriptional Regulatory Features in the Non-Obstructive Azoospermia Testis. Front Genet 2022; 13:875762. [PMID: 35669193 PMCID: PMC9163961 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.875762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is one of the most important causes of male infertility. Although many congenital factors have been identified, the aetiology in the majority of idiopathic NOA (iNOA) cases remains unknown. Herein, using single-cell RNA-Seq data sets (GSE149512) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, we constructed transcriptional regulatory networks (TRNs) to explain the mutual regulatory relationship and the causal relationship between transcription factors (TFs). We defined 10 testicular cell types by their marker genes and found that the proportion of Leydig cells (LCs) and macrophages (tMΦ) was significantly increased in iNOA testis. We identified specific TFs including LHX9, KLF8, KLF4, ARID5B and RXRG in iNOA LCs. In addition, we found specific TFs in iNOA tMΦ such as POU2F2, SPIB IRF5, CEBPA, ELK4 and KLF6. All these identified TFs are strongly engaged in cellular fate, function and homeostasis of the microenvironment. Changes in the activity of the above-mentioned TFs might affect the function of LCs and tMΦ and ultimately cause spermatogenesis failure. This study illustrate that these TFs play important regulatory roles in the occurrence and development of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-juan Tang
- Department of Andrology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Qiao-hong Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Xue-lin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Yan He
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
- Postgraduate Training Basement of Jinzhou Medicical University, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Ya-nan Tian
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
- Postgraduate Training Basement of Jinzhou Medicical University, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Bin-tong Xia
- Department of Urology Surgery, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Yang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Jiao-long Huang
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Peng Duan
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Yan Tan
- Department of Andrology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Biomedical Engineering College, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
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22
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Hypertension Induces Gonadal Macrophage Imbalance, Inflammation, Lymphangiogenesis, and Dysfunction. Clin Sci (Lond) 2022; 136:879-894. [PMID: 35532133 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220117] [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: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Hypertension (HTN) is associated with gonadal dysfunction and impaired reproductive health in both men and women. An imbalance in the systemic and renal pro-inflammatory (M1)/anti-inflammatory (M2) macrophage ratio, increased inflammation, and inflammation-associated lymphangiogenesis have been observed in animals with HTN. However, the impact of HTN on gonadal macrophages, inflammation, and lymphatics remains obscure. We hypothesized that salt-sensitive HTN (SSHTN) and HTN alters gonadal macrophage polarization, which is associated with inflammation, inflammation-associated lymphangiogenesis and reproductive dysfunction. Flow cytometry analyses revealed a significant increase in M1 macrophages in the testes of SSHTN and nitric oxide synthase inhibition-induced HTN (LHTN) mice, with a concurrent decrease in M2 macrophages in SSHTN mice yet an increase in M2 macrophages in LHTN mice. Ovaries from SSHTN mice exhibited increase in M1 and a decrease in M2 macrophages, while ovaries from LHTN mice had a significant increase in M2 and a decrease in M1 macrophages. Gene expression patterns of pro-inflammatory cytokines revealed gonadal inflammation in all hypertensive mice. Increased lymphatic vessel density in the gonads of both male and female hypertensive mice was confirmed by immunofluorescence staining for LYVE-1. HTN adversely affected the expression pattern of steroidogenic enzymes, hormone receptors, and secretory proteins in both the testes and ovaries. In line with these results, male hypertensive mice also presented with decreased sperm concentration, and increased percentage of sperm with abnormal morphology, damaged acrosome, and non-functional mitochondrial activity. These data demonstrate that HTN alters gonadal macrophage polarization, which is associated with gonadal inflammation, inflammation-associated lymphangiogenesis, and dysfunction.
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Zhang J, Ye R, Grunberger JW, Jin J, Zhang Q, Mohammadpour R, Khurana N, Xu X, Ghandehari H, Chen F. Activation of Autophagy by Low-Dose Silica Nanoparticles Enhances Testosterone Secretion in Leydig Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063104. [PMID: 35328525 PMCID: PMC8949068 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Silica nanoparticles (SNPs) can cause abnormal spermatogenesis in male reproductive toxicity. However, the toxicity and toxicological mechanisms of SNPs in testosterone synthesis and secretion in Leydig cells are not well known. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect and molecular mechanism of low doses of SNPs in testosterone production in Leydig cells. For this, mouse primary Leydig cells (PLCs) were exposed to 100 nm Stöber nonporous spherical SNPs. We observed significant accumulation of SNPs in the cytoplasm of PLCs via transmission electron microscopy (TEM). CCK-8 and flow cytometry assays confirmed that low doses (50 and 100 μg/mL) of SNPs had no significant effect on cell viability and apoptosis, whereas high doses (more than 200 μg/mL) decreased cell viability and increased cell apoptosis in PLCs. Monodansylcadaverine (MDC) staining showed that SNPs caused the significant accumulation of autophagosomes in the cytoplasm of PLCs. SNPs activated autophagy by upregulating microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3-II) and BCL-2-interacting protein (BECLIN-1) levels, in addition to downregulating sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1/P62) level at low doses. In addition, low doses of SNPs enhanced testosterone secretion and increased steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) expression. SNPs combined with rapamycin (RAP), an autophagy activator, enhanced testosterone production and increased StAR expression, whereas SNPs combined with 3-methyladenine (3-MA) and chloroquine (CQ), autophagy inhibitors, had an opposite effect. Furthermore, BECLIN-1 depletion inhibited testosterone production and StAR expression. Altogether, our results demonstrate that low doses of SNPs enhanced testosterone secretion via the activation of autophagy in PLCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinlong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.Z.); (R.Y.); (J.J.); (Q.Z.); (X.X.)
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Rongrong Ye
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.Z.); (R.Y.); (J.J.); (Q.Z.); (X.X.)
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Jason William Grunberger
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; (J.W.G.); (R.M.); (N.K.); (H.G.)
- Utah Center for Nanomedicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Jiaqi Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.Z.); (R.Y.); (J.J.); (Q.Z.); (X.X.)
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Qianru Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.Z.); (R.Y.); (J.J.); (Q.Z.); (X.X.)
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Raziye Mohammadpour
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; (J.W.G.); (R.M.); (N.K.); (H.G.)
- Utah Center for Nanomedicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Nitish Khurana
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; (J.W.G.); (R.M.); (N.K.); (H.G.)
- Utah Center for Nanomedicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Xianyu Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.Z.); (R.Y.); (J.J.); (Q.Z.); (X.X.)
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Hamidreza Ghandehari
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; (J.W.G.); (R.M.); (N.K.); (H.G.)
- Utah Center for Nanomedicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Fenglei Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.Z.); (R.Y.); (J.J.); (Q.Z.); (X.X.)
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-514-87979030; Fax: +86-514-87972218
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Jatsa HB, Femoe UM, Dongmo CN, Kamwa RIN, Fesuh BN, Tchuem Tchuente LA, Kamtchouing P. Reduction of testosterone levels in Schistosoma haematobium- or Schistosoma mansoni-infected men: a cross-sectional study in two schistosomiasis-endemic areas of the Adamawa region of Cameroon. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:230. [PMID: 35255836 PMCID: PMC8900354 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07195-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of schistosomiasis-induced male reproductive dysfunction and infertility is probably underestimated compared to female genital schistosomiasis. This study aimed to investigate the impact of Schistosoma haematobium or S. mansoni infection on the reproductive function of men of reproductive age in Tibati and Wouldé, two endemic schistosomiasis areas in the Adamawa region of Cameroon. METHODS A total of 89 men of reproductive age (range 14-56 years) from two localities were enrolled in the study, with 51 in Tibati and 38 in Wouldé. Each participant was submitted to a questionnaire to document data on sociodemographic and stream contact behaviors. A medical examination was performed to measure the testes' circumference and evaluate genital tract pathologies. Stool and urine samples were collected and screened for the presence of S. haematobium or S. mansoni ova. Blood serum was used to assess the levels of transaminases and testosterone. RESULTS Schistosoma haematobium was present only in Tibati, with a prevalence of 31.37%. The S. mansoni prevalence was 3.92% at Tibati and 44.71% at Wouldé. The intensity of infection was 22.12 ± 9.57 eggs/10 mL for S. haematobium and 128.10 ± 3.76 epg for S. mansoni. Serum transaminase activity and the mean testicular circumference of Schistosoma-positive individuals were close to Schistosoma-negative individuals. However, the testes size was more prominent in S. mansoni-positive individuals than in S. haematobium-positive individuals (P < 0.05). The serum testosterone levels of S. haematobium- and S. mansoni-positive men were significantly reduced by 56.07% (P < 0.001) and 51.94% (P < 0.01), respectively, in comparison to those of Schistosoma-negative men. A significant and negative correlation was established between schistosomiasis and the low serum testosterone level. Male genital tract pathologies such as scrotal abnormalities, varicocele, nodular epididymis, inguinal hernia, and hydrocele were recorded in both Schistosoma-positive and Schistosoma-negative men. However, no significant link was established between schistosomiasis infection and these pathologies. CONCLUSION These results demonstrated that infection with S. haematobium or S. mansoni is associated with low production of the reproductive hormone testosterone and may be a significant cause of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermine Boukeng Jatsa
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, P.O. Box 812, Yaoundé, Cameroon. .,Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, P.O. Box 7244, Yaoundé, Cameroon.
| | - Ulrich Membe Femoe
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, P.O. Box 812, Yaoundé, Cameroon.,Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, P.O. Box 7244, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Calvine Noumedem Dongmo
- Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, P.O. Box 7244, Yaoundé, Cameroon.,Laboratory of Parasitology and Ecology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, P.O. Box 812, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | - Betrand Nono Fesuh
- Laboratory of Mathematical Engineering and Information System, Department of Mathematics, National Advances School of Engineering of Yaoundé, University of Yaoundé I, P.O. Box 8390, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Louis-Albert Tchuem Tchuente
- Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, P.O. Box 7244, Yaoundé, Cameroon.,Laboratory of Parasitology and Ecology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, P.O. Box 812, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Pierre Kamtchouing
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, P.O. Box 812, Yaoundé, Cameroon
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Li Y, Mi P, Wu J, Tang Y, Liu X, Cheng J, Huang Y, Qin W, Cheng CY, Sun F. High Throughput scRNA-Seq Provides Insights Into Leydig Cell Senescence Induced by Experimental Autoimmune Orchitis: A Prominent Role of Interstitial Fibrosis and Complement Activation. Front Immunol 2022; 12:771373. [PMID: 35111154 PMCID: PMC8801941 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.771373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Leydig cells (Lc), located in the interstitial space of the testis between seminiferous tubules, produce 95% of testosterone in male individuals, which is pivotal for male sexual differentiation, spermatogenesis, and maintenance of the male secondary sex characteristics. Lc are prone to senescence in aging testes, resulting in compromised androgen synthesis capability upon aging. However, little is known about whether Lc undergo senescence in a chronic inflammatory environment. To investigate this question, mouse models of experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) were used, and Lc were analyzed by high throughput scRNA-Seq. Data were screened and analyzed by correlating signaling pathways with senescence, apoptosis, androgen synthesis, and cytokine/chemokine signaling pathways. EAO did induce Lc senescence, and Lc senescence in turn antagonized androgen synthesis. Based on the correlation screening of pathways inducing Lc senescence, a plethora of pathways were found to play potential roles in triggering Lc senescence during EAO, among which the Arf6 and angiopoietin receptor pathways were highly correlated with senescence signature. Notably, complement and interstitial fibrosis activated by EAO worsened Lc senescence and strongly antagonized androgen synthesis. Furthermore, most proinflammatory cytokines enhanced both senescence and apoptosis in Lc and spermatogonia (Sg) during EAO, and proinflammatory cytokine antagonism of the glutathione metabolism pathway may be key in inducing cellular senescence during EAO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinchuan Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Panpan Mi
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jiabao Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunge Tang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinmei Cheng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yingying Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Weibing Qin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, United States
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
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Sağraç D, Şenkal S, Hayal TB, Demirci S, Şişli HB, Asutay AB, Doğan A. Protective role of Cytoglobin and Neuroglobin against the Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in Leydig cells ex vivo. Reprod Biol 2022; 22:100595. [PMID: 35121559 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2021.100595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Leydig cells are responsible for testosterone production in male testis upon stimulation by luteinizing hormone. Inflammation and oxidative stress related Leydig cell dysfunction is one of the major causes of male infertility. Cytoglobin (CYGB) and Neuroglobin (NGB) are two globin family member proteins which protect cells against oxidative stress. In the current study, we established a Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation model in TM3 Leydig cell culture to study the function of CYGB and NGB proteins under inflammatory conditions. CYGB and NGB were downregulated using siRNA and shRNA based experimental strategies. Overexpression was conducted using lentiviral pLenti-III-CYGB-2A-GFP, and pLenti-III-NGB-2A-GFP vector systems. As testicular macrophages regulate immune function upon inflammation and steroidogenesis of Leydig cells, we generated direct/indirect co-culture systems of TM3 and mouse macrophage (RAW264.7) cells ex vivo. Downregulation of CYGB and NGB induced nitride oxide (NO) release, blocked cell cycle progression, reduced testosterone production and increased inflammatory and apoptotic pathway gene expression in the presence and absence of LPS. On the other hand, CYGB and NGB overexpression reduced TNFα and COX-2 protein expressions and increased the expression of testosterone biogenesis pathway genes upon LPS stimulation. In addition, CYGB and NGB overexpression upregulated testosterone production. The present study successfully established an inflammatory interaction model of TM3 and RAW264.7 cells. Suppression of CYGB and NGB in TM3 cells changed macrophage morphology, enhanced macrophage cell number and NO release in co-culture experiments upon LPS exposure. In summary, these results demonstrate that globin family members might control LPS induced inflammation by regulating apoptotic mechanisms and macrophage response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derya Sağraç
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Selinay Şenkal
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Taha Bartu Hayal
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Selami Demirci
- Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Hatice Burcu Şişli
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayla Burçin Asutay
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayşegül Doğan
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Hasan H, Bhushan S, Fijak M, Meinhardt A. Mechanism of Inflammatory Associated Impairment of Sperm Function, Spermatogenesis and Steroidogenesis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:897029. [PMID: 35574022 PMCID: PMC9096214 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.897029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection and inflammation are relevant entities of male reproductive disorders that can lead to sub-/infertility. Associated damage of the testis of affected men and in rodent models include leukocytic infiltration, edema formation, fibrosis, germ cell loss and reduced androgen levels. Negative effects on spermatogenesis are thought to be elicited by oxidative stress sustained mostly by increased levels of ROS and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Under normal conditions these cytokines have physiological functions. However, increased levels as seen in inflammation and infection, but also in obesity and cancer are harmful for germ cells and impair steroidogenesis. As a summary, there is mounting evidence that the activation of inflammatory pathways is a rather common feature in various forms of male testicular disorders that extends beyond established infectious/inflammatory cues. This mini review will focus on relevant entities and the mechanisms of how a dysbalance of local testicular factors contributes to disturbances of spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Monika Fijak
- *Correspondence: Andreas Meinhardt, ; Monika Fijak,
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Gu X, Li SY, Matsuyama S, DeFalco T. Immune Cells as Critical Regulators of Steroidogenesis in the Testis and Beyond. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:894437. [PMID: 35573990 PMCID: PMC9096076 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.894437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Steroidogenesis is an essential biological process for embryonic development, reproduction, and adult health. While specific glandular cells, such as Leydig cells in the testis, are traditionally known to be the principal players in steroid hormone production, there are other cell types that contribute to the process of steroidogenesis. In particular, immune cells are often an important component of the cellular niche that is required for the production of steroid hormones. For several decades, studies have reported that testicular macrophages and Leydig cells are intimately associated and exhibit a dependency on the other cell type for their proper development; however, the mechanisms that underlie the functional relationship between macrophages and Leydig cells are unclear. Beyond the testis, in certain instances immune cells themselves, such as certain types of lymphocytes, are capable of steroid hormone production, thus highlighting the complexity and diversity that underlie steroidogenesis. In this review we will describe how immune cells are critical regulators of steroidogenesis in the testis and in extra-glandular locations, as well as discuss how this area of research offers opportunities to uncover new insights into steroid hormone production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Gu
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Shu-Yun Li
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Satoko Matsuyama
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Tony DeFalco
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Tony DeFalco,
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Yang C, Li P, Li Z. Clinical application of aromatase inhibitors to treat male infertility. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:30-50. [PMID: 34871401 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility affects 15% of men and contributes to nearly half of all cases of infertility. Infertile men usually have impaired spermatogenesis, presenting as azoospermia or various degrees of asthenospermia and oligozoospermia. Spermatogenesis is a complex and coordinated process, which is under precise modulation by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. An aberrant hormone profile, especially an imbalance between testosterone (T) and estradiol (E2), plays an essential role in male infertility. In the male, E2 is produced mainly from the conversion of T by the aromatase enzyme. Theoretically, reducing an abnormally elevated T:E2 ratio using aromatase inhibitors (AIs) could restore the balance between T and E2 and optimize the HPG axis to support spermatogenesis. For decades, AIs have been used to treat male infertility empirically. However, owing to the lack of large-scale randomized controlled studies and basic research, the treatment efficacy and safety of AIs in male infertility remain controversial. Therefore, there is a need to summarize the clinical trials and relevant basic research on the application of AIs in the treatment of male infertility. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE In this narrative review, we summarized the application of AIs in the treatment of male infertility, including the pharmacological mechanisms involved, clinical trials focused on patients with different types of infertility, factors affecting treatment efficacy and the side-effects. SEARCH METHODS A literature search was performed using MEDLINE/PubMed and EMBASE, focusing on publications in the past four decades concerning the use of AIs for treating male infertility. The search terms included AI, male infertility, letrozole, anastrozole, testolactone, azoospermia, oligozoospermia, aromatase polymorphisms, obesity and antiestrogens, in various combinations. OUTCOMES Clinical studies demonstrate that AIs, especially nonsteroidal letrozole and anastrozole, could significantly inhibit the production of E2 and its negative feedback on the HPG axis, resulting in increased T and FSH production as well as improved semen parameters in infertile men. Large-scale surveys suggest that obesity may result in symptoms of hypogonadism in both fertile and infertile males, such as decreased semen quality and attenuated sexual function, which can be improved by AIs treatment. Polymorphisms of the aromatase gene CYP19A1, including single nucleotide polymorphisms and tetranucleotide TTTA repeats polymorphism (TTTAn), also influence hormone profiles, semen quality and treatment efficacy of AIs in male hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and infertility. The side-effects of AIs in treating male infertility are various, but most are mild and well tolerated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The application of AIs in treating male infertility has been off-label and empirical for decades. This narrative review has summarized the target patients, dose, treatment duration and side-effects of AIs. Polymorphisms of CYP19A1 that may affect AIs treatment efficacy were also summarized, but a full understanding of the mechanisms involved in AIs action requires further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Yang
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Wang S, Zhang K, Yao Y, Li J, Deng S. Bacterial Infections Affect Male Fertility: A Focus on the Oxidative Stress-Autophagy Axis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:727812. [PMID: 34746124 PMCID: PMC8566953 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.727812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous factors trigger male infertility, including lifestyle, the environment, health, medical resources and pathogenic microorganism infections. Bacterial infections of the male reproductive system can cause various reproductive diseases. Several male reproductive organs, such as the testicles, have unique immune functions that protect the germ cells from damage. In the reproductive system, immune cells can recognize the pathogen-associated molecular patterns carried by pathogenic microorganisms and activate the host's innate immune response. Furthermore, bacterial infections can lead to oxidative stress through multiple signaling pathways. Many studies have revealed that oxidative stress serves dual functions: moderate oxidative stress can help clear the invaders and maintain sperm motility, but excessive oxidative stress will induce host damage. Additionally, oxidative stress is always accompanied by autophagy which can also help maintain host homeostasis. Male reproductive system homeostasis disequilibrium can cause inflammation of the genitourinary system, influence spermatogenesis, and even lead to infertility. Here, we focus on the effect of oxidative stress and autophagy on bacterial infection in the male reproductive system, and we also explore the crosslink between oxidative stress and autophagy during this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sutian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Breeding, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kunli Zhang
- Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Livestock Disease Prevention, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuchang Yao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Jianhao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Breeding, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Maoming, China
| | - Shoulong Deng
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Comparative Medicine Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Wang Y, Su R, Liu P, Yuan Z, Han Y, Zhang H, Weng Q. Seasonal changes of mitochondrial autophagy and oxidative response in the testis of the wild ground squirrels ( Spermophilus dauricus). Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2021; 321:R625-R633. [PMID: 34494473 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00105.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria are the main organelles for mammalian energy metabolism and have been implicated in the regulation of germ cell maintenance and spermatogenesis. However, little is known about the changes in the mitochondria of the testis of seasonal breeders. Here, we characterized the seasonal changes in the mitochondria in the testis of the wild ground squirrels. Increased testicle weight, seminiferous tubule diameter, and sperm count were observed in the wild ground squirrels at the breeding season. RNA-seq analysis of the wild ground squirrel testes revealed that mitochondrial-related genes were expressed differentially between the breeding and nonbreeding seasons. Immunohistochemical staining showed that key mitophagy factors including PINK1, MFN2, and PARKIN were highly expressed in various cell types of testis during the breeding season. In addition, the abundance and enzymatic activities of mitochondrial-localized antioxidative enzymes superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) and Catalase were decreased in the testis during the breeding season, suggesting a tightly controlled redox balance at least partially facilitated by mitophagy during the seasonal breeding. Taken together, our study reveals that mitochondrial autophagy and oxidative stress may be implicated in the seasonal reproductive recrudescence of the wild ground squirrels, which deepens our understanding of the mitochondrial regulation of seasonal reproductivity in wildlife and provides new insights into the development of potential therapeutic interventions of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhan Wang
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruting Su
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Pinxuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengrong Yuan
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingying Han
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Haolin Zhang
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Weng
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Dutta S, Sandhu N, Sengupta P, Alves MG, Henkel R, Agarwal A. Somatic-Immune Cells Crosstalk In-The-Making of Testicular Immune Privilege. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:2707-2718. [PMID: 34580844 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00721-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Immunological infertility contributes significantly to the etiology of idiopathic male infertility. Shielding the spermatogenic cells from systemic immune responses is fundamental to secure normal production of spermatozoa. The body's immune system is tuned with the host self-components since the early postnatal period, while sperm first develops during puberty, thus rendering spermatogenic proteins as 'non-self' or 'antigenic.' Development of antibodies to these antigens elicits autoimmune responses affecting sperm motility, functions, and fertility. Therefore, the testes need to establish a specialized immune-privileged microenvironment to protect the allogenic germ cells by orchestration of various testicular cells and resident immune cells. This is achieved through sequestration of antigenic germ cells by blood-testis barrier and actions of various endocrine, paracrine, immune-suppressive, and immunomodulatory mechanisms. The various mechanisms are very complex and need conceptual integration to disclose the exact physiological scenario, and to facilitate detection and management of immunogenic infertility caused by disruption of testicular immune regulation. The present review aims to (a) discuss the components of testicular immune privilege; (b) explain testicular somatic and immune cell interactions in establishing and maintaining the testicular immune micro-environment; and (c) illustrate the integration of multiple mechanisms involved in the control of immune privilege of the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulagna Dutta
- Department of Oral Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Selangor , Malaysia
| | - Narpal Sandhu
- Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Selangor , Malaysia
| | - Marco G Alves
- Department of Anatomy and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
- LogixX Pharma, Theale, Berkshire, UK
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.
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Awny MM, Al-Mokaddem AK, Ali BM. Mangiferin mitigates di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate-induced testicular injury in rats by modulating oxidative stress-mediated signals, inflammatory cascades, apoptotic pathways, and steroidogenesis. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 711:108982. [PMID: 34400143 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is an endocrine disruptor that causes reproductive defects in male animal models. This study was conducted to explore the plausible modulatory effects of mangiferin (MF) against DEHP-induced testicular injury in rats. Thirty-two adult male albino rats were allocated into four groups. Two groups were given DEHP (2 g/kg/day, p.o) for 14 days. One of these groups was treated with MF (20 mg/kg/day, i.p) for 7 days before and 14 days after DEHP administration. A vehicle-treated control was included, and another group of rats was given MF only. Results revealed that MF treatment suppressed oxidative testicular injury by amplifying the mRNA expression of nuclear factor-erythroid 2 related factor-2 (Nrf2) and increasing hemoxygenase-1 (HO-1), glutathione, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels. This treatment also enhanced superoxide dismutase activity, but it decreased malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels. MF had an anti-inflammatory characteristic, as demonstrated by the downregulation of the mRNA of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). The content of tumor necrosis factor-alpha also decreased. MF modulated the apoptotic pathway by suppressing the mRNA of cytochrome c (Cyt c), Fas ligand content, Bax IHC expression, caspase-3 activity and cleaved caspase-3 IHC expression. It also upregulated the expression levels of heat-shock protein 70 (HSP70) and B-cell lymphoma 2. Moreover, MF upregulated the mRNA expression levels of HSP70 and c-kit and enriched the content of steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein, which were reflected in serum testosterone levels. This result indicated that MF played crucial roles in steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. Besides, the activities of testicular marker enzymes, namely, acid and alkaline phosphatases, and lactate dehydrogenase, significantly increased. Histopathological observations provided evidence supporting the biochemical and molecular measurements. In conclusion, MF provided protective mechanisms against the DEHP-mediated deterioration of testicular functions partially through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. It also involved the restoration of steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis through the modulation of Nrf2/HO-1, NF-κB/Cyt c/HSP70, and c-Kit signaling cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdy M Awny
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, October 6 University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Asmaa K Al-Mokaddem
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Bassam Mohamed Ali
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, October 6 University, Cairo, Egypt
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Huang L, Xiao K, Zhang J, Zhang P, He W, Tang Y, Yang W, Huang X, Liu R, Liang X, Liu X, Fu Q, Lu Y, Zhang M. Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals potential testosterone function-related regulatory genes/pathways of Leydig cells in immature and mature buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) testes. Gene 2021; 802:145870. [PMID: 34363886 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.145870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Leydig cells (LCs) are testosterone-generating endocrine cells that are located outside the seminiferous tubules in the testis, and testosterone is fundamental for retaining spermatogenesis and male fertility. In buffalo, adult Leydig cells (ALCs) are developed by immature Leydig cells (ILCs) in the postnatal testes. However, the genes/pathways associated to the regulation of testosterone secretion function during the development of postnatal LCs remains comprehensively unidentified. The present study comparatively analyzed the transcriptome profiles of ILC and ALC in buffalo with significant differences in testosterone secretion. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis identified 972 and 1,091 annotated genes that were significantly up- and down-regulated in buffalo ALC. Functional enrichment analysis showed that cAMP signaling being the most significantly enriched pathway, and testosterone synthesis and lipid transport-related genes/pathways were upregulated in ALC. Furthermore, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) shows that cAMP signaling and steroid hormone biosynthesis were activated in ALC, demonstrating that cAMP signaling may serve as a positive regulatory pathway in the maintenance of testosterone function during postnatal development of LCs. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks analysis highlighted that ADCY8, ADCY2, POMC, CHRM2, SST, PTGER3, SSTR2, SSTR1, NPY1R, and HTR1D as hub genes in the cAMP signaling pathway. In conclusion, this study identified key genes and pathways associated in the regulation of testosterone secretion function during the ILC-ALC transition in buffalo based on bioinformatics analysis, and these key genes might be deeply involved in cAMP generation to influencing testosterone levels in LCs. The results suggest that ALCs might increase testosterone levels by enhancing cAMP production than ILCs. Our data will enhance the understanding of developmental mechanism studies related to testosterone function and provide preliminary evidence for molecular mechanisms of LCs regulating spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangfeng Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Kai Xiao
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Junjun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Wengtan He
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Yuyan Tang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Weihan Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Xingchen Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Runfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Xianwei Liang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Buffalo Genetics, Reproduction and Breeding, Nanning 530001, China
| | - Xingting Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China.
| | - Qiang Fu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China.
| | - Yangqing Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China.
| | - Ming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China.
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Qin Z, Liu N, Liao R, Jiang L, Su B. The Association Between Dietary Inflammatory Potential and Sex Hormones in Male Children and Adolescents Aged 6-19 Years. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:722941. [PMID: 34413832 PMCID: PMC8370775 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.722941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims This study aimed to assess the relationship between dietary inflammatory index (DII) and sex hormones in male children and adolescents aged 6-19 years. Methods We obtained data from the 2013-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Male participants aged 6-19 years old with the complete data of DII and sex hormones were included. Weighted multiple regression analysis and subgroup analysis were preformed to estimate the independent relationship between DII and sex hormones. Results A total of 1717 male participants with the average age of 13.02 ± 3.82 years were enrolled, of whom 41.3% (n=713) were children and 58.47% (n=1004) were adolescents. In children, mean DII was 0.18 ± 1.67, with scores ranging from -4.53 to 4.08. As for adolescents, the mean DII was 0.36 ± 1.98, mean total testosterone (TT) was 376.94 ± 206.69 ng/dl overall. A negative association between DII with TT and estradiol (E2) was observed (TT: β=-11.97, P=0.0006; E2: β=-0.45, P=0.0108) in male adolescent. Subgroup analysis and interaction test results indicated that this association was similar in male adolescents with different body mass index. No statistically significant association was observed in children. Conclusions Pro-inflammatory diet was associated with lower TT and E2 level in male adolescent, while no association with statistical significance between them was observed in male children. However, more studies are still needed to validate the causal relationship between DII and sex hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Qin
- Department of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Med+ Biomaterial Institute of West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Nuozhou Liu
- West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruoxi Liao
- Department of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Med+ Biomaterial Institute of West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Luojia Jiang
- Department of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Med+ Biomaterial Institute of West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Baihai Su
- Department of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Med+ Biomaterial Institute of West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Ibrahim IA, Shalaby AA, Abd Elaziz RT, Bahr HI. Chlorella vulgaris or Spirulina platensis mitigate lead acetate-induced testicular oxidative stress and apoptosis with regard to androgen receptor expression in rats. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:39126-39138. [PMID: 33754266 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13411-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The current research was constructed to throw the light on the protective possibility of Chlorella vulgaris (C. vulgaris) and Spirulina platensis (S. platensis) against lead acetate-promoted testicular dysfunction in male rats. Forty rats were classified into four groups: (i) control, (ii) rats received lead acetate (30 mg/kg bw), (iii) rats concomitantly received lead acetate and C. vulgaris (300 mg/kg bw), (vi) rats were simultaneously treated with lead acetate and S. platensis (300 mg/kg bw) via oral gavage for 8 weeks. Lead acetate promoted testicular injury as expressed with fall in reproductive organ weights and gonadosomatic index (GSI). Lead acetate disrupted spermatogenesis as indicated by sperm cell count reduction and increased sperm malformation percentage. Lead acetate-deteriorated steroidogenesis is evoked by minimized serum testosterone along with maximized follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. Testicular oxidative, inflammatory, and apoptotic cascades are revealed by elevated acid phosphatase (ACP) and sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH) serum leakage, declined testicular total antioxidative capacity (TAC) with elevated total oxidative capacity (TOC), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), caspase-3 levels, lessened androgen receptor (AR) expression, and histopathological lesions against control. Our research highlights that C. vulgaris or S. platensis therapy can modulate lead acetate-promoted testicular dysfunction via their antioxidant activity as expressed by elevated TAC and reduced TOC, immunomodulatory effect as indicated by lessened TNF-α level, and anti-apoptotic potential that was revealed by minimized caspase-3 levels. As well as restoration of testicular histoarchitecture, androgen receptor, steroidogenesis, and spermatogenesis were detected with better impacts to S. platensis comparing with C. vulgaris. Therefore, further clinical trials are needed to test S. platensis and C. vulgaris as a promising candidate in treating male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim A Ibrahim
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Vet. Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Abeir A Shalaby
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Vet. Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Raghda T Abd Elaziz
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Vet. Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Hoda I Bahr
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Vet. Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt.
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38
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El-Kenawi A, Dominguez-Viqueira W, Liu M, Awasthi S, Abraham-Miranda J, Keske A, Steiner KK, Noel L, Serna AN, Dhillon J, Gillies RJ, Yu X, Koomen JM, Yamoah K, Gatenby RA, Ruffell B. Macrophage-derived cholesterol contributes to therapeutic resistance in prostate cancer. Cancer Res 2021; 81:5477-5490. [PMID: 34301759 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-4028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is a lethal stage of disease in which androgen receptor (AR) signaling is persistent despite androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Most studies have focused on investigating cell-autonomous alterations in CRPC, while the contributions of the tumor microenvironment are less well understood. Here we sought to determine the role of tumor-associated macrophages in CRPC, based upon their role in cancer progression and therapeutic resistance. In a syngeneic model that reflected the mutational landscape of CRPC, macrophage depletion resulted in a reduced transcriptional signature for steroid and bile acid synthesis, indicating potential perturbation of cholesterol metabolism. As cholesterol is the precursor of the five major types of steroid hormones, we hypothesized that macrophages were regulating androgen biosynthesis within the prostate tumor microenvironment. Macrophage depletion reduced androgen levels within prostate tumors and restricted androgen receptor (AR) nuclear localization in vitro and in vivo. Macrophages were also cholesterol-rich and were able to transfer cholesterol to tumor cells in vitro. AR nuclear translocation was inhibited by activation of Liver X Receptor (LXR)-β, the master regulator of cholesterol homeostasis. Consistent with these data, macrophage depletion extended survival during ADT and the presence of macrophages correlated with therapeutic resistance in patient-derived explants. Taken together, these findings support the therapeutic targeting of macrophages in CRPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa El-Kenawi
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida.
- Department of Cancer Physiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | | | - Min Liu
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Core, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Shivanshu Awasthi
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Julieta Abraham-Miranda
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Aysenur Keske
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - KayLee K Steiner
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Leenil Noel
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Amparo N Serna
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Jasreman Dhillon
- Department of Pathology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Robert J Gillies
- Department of Cancer Physiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Xiaoqing Yu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - John M Koomen
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Core, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Kosj Yamoah
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
- Department of Radiation Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Robert A Gatenby
- Department of Radiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Brian Ruffell
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida.
- Department of Breast Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
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39
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Sararols P, Stévant I, Neirijnck Y, Rebourcet D, Darbey A, Curley MK, Kühne F, Dermitzakis E, Smith LB, Nef S. Specific Transcriptomic Signatures and Dual Regulation of Steroidogenesis Between Fetal and Adult Mouse Leydig Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:695546. [PMID: 34262907 PMCID: PMC8273516 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.695546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Leydig cells (LC) are the main testicular androgen-producing cells. In eutherian mammals, two types of LCs emerge successively during testicular development, fetal Leydig cells (FLCs) and adult Leydig cells (ALCs). Both display significant differences in androgen production and regulation. Using bulk RNA sequencing, we compared the transcriptomes of both LC populations to characterize their specific transcriptional and functional features. Despite similar transcriptomic profiles, a quarter of the genes show significant variations in expression between FLCs and ALCs. Non-transcriptional events, such as alternative splicing was also observed, including a high rate of intron retention in FLCs compared to ALCs. The use of single-cell RNA sequencing data also allowed the identification of nine FLC-specific genes and 50 ALC-specific genes. Expression of the corticotropin-releasing hormone 1 (Crhr1) receptor and the ACTH receptor melanocortin type 2 receptor (Mc2r) specifically in FLCs suggests a dual regulation of steroidogenesis. The androstenedione synthesis by FLCs is stimulated by luteinizing hormone (LH), corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH), and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) whereas the testosterone synthesis by ALCs is dependent exclusively on LH. Overall, our study provides a useful database to explore LC development and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Sararols
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Isabelle Stévant
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Yasmine Neirijnck
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Diane Rebourcet
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Annalucia Darbey
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael K Curley
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Françoise Kühne
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Emmanouil Dermitzakis
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva (iGE3), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Lee B Smith
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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40
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Aldahhan RA, Stanton PG. Heat stress response of somatic cells in the testis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 527:111216. [PMID: 33639219 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The testis is a temperature-sensitive organ that needs to be maintained 2-7 °C below core body temperature to ensure the production of normal sperm. Failure to maintain testicular temperature in mammals impairs spermatogenesis and leads to low sperm counts, poor sperm motility and abnormal sperm morphology in the ejaculate. This review discusses the recent knowledge on the response of testicular somatic cells to heat stress and, specifically, regarding the relevant contributions of heat, germ cell depletion and inflammatory reactions on the functions of Sertoli and Leydig cells. It also outlines mechanisms of testicular thermoregulation, as well as the thermogenic factors that impact testicular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashid A Aldahhan
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 2114, Dammam, 31541, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Peter G Stanton
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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41
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Gu X, Li SY, DeFalco T. Immune and vascular contributions to organogenesis of the testis and ovary. FEBS J 2021; 289:2386-2408. [PMID: 33774913 PMCID: PMC8476657 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Gonad development is a highly regulated process that coordinates cell specification and morphogenesis to produce sex-specific organ structures that are required for fertility, such as testicular seminiferous tubules and ovarian follicles. While sex determination occurs within specialized gonadal supporting cells, sexual differentiation is evident throughout the entire organ, including within the interstitial compartment, which contains immune cells and vasculature. While immune and vascular cells have been traditionally appreciated for their supporting roles during tissue growth and homeostasis, an increasing body of evidence supports the idea that these cell types are critical drivers of sexually dimorphic morphogenesis of the gonad. Myeloid immune cells, such as macrophages, are essential for multiple aspects of gonadogenesis and fertility, including for forming and maintaining gonadal vasculature in both sexes at varying stages of life. While vasculature is long known for supporting organ growth and serving as an export mechanism for gonadal sex steroids in utero, it is also an important component of fetal testicular morphogenesis and differentiation; additionally, it is vital for ovarian corpus luteal function and maintenance of pregnancy. These findings point toward a new paradigm in which immune cells and blood vessels are integral components of sexual differentiation and organogenesis. In this review, we discuss the state of the field regarding the diverse roles of immune and vascular cells during organogenesis of the testis and ovary and highlight outstanding questions in the field that could stimulate new research into these previously underappreciated constituents of the gonad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Gu
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, OH, USA
| | - Shu-Yun Li
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, OH, USA
| | - Tony DeFalco
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, OH, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, OH, USA
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42
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The endocrine disrupting effects of sodium arsenite in the rat testis is not mediated through macrophage activation. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 102:1-9. [PMID: 33766721 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.03.005] [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: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Arsenic (As) is an endocrine disrupting chemical that can disturb the male reproductive system. In a previous study, it was suggested that testicular macrophages could display a role in endocrine disruption induced by As exposure. This work aimed to evaluate the effects of chronic As exposure in the testis function of Wistar rats and examine the participation of macrophage activation and inflammatory response in these processes. We examined gene expression of steroidogenic machinery and immunological markers by RT-QPCR, plasma testosterone concentrations, sperm count and morphology, and histomorphometrical parameters after 60-days exposure to 1 or 5 mg.kg-1.day-1 of sodium arsenite, combined or not with 50 μg.kg-1 of LPS administered one day before euthanasia. We have demonstrated that As exposure reduced the weight of androgen-dependent organs and induced changes in spermatogenesis, in particular at the highest dose. LPS and As co-exposure promoted a decrease in testosterone synthesis, but did not increase the overexpression of markers of macrophage activation seen in LPS-only rats. Our results suggest that As does not alter the testicular macrophage function, but under immunological challenges LPS and As can display a complex interaction, which could lead to endocrine disruption.
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43
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Hashimoto M, Kimura S, Kanno C, Yanagawa Y, Watanabe T, Okabe J, Takahashi E, Nagano M, Kitamura H. Macrophage ubiquitin-specific protease 2 contributes to motility, hyperactivation, capacitation, and in vitro fertilization activity of mouse sperm. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:2929-2948. [PMID: 33104844 PMCID: PMC11073191 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03683-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages are innate immune cells that contribute to classical immune functions and tissue homeostasis. Ubiquitin-specific protease 2 (USP2) controls cytokine production in macrophages, but its organ-specific roles are still unknown. In this study, we generated myeloid-selective Usp2 knockout (msUsp2KO) mice and specifically explored the roles of testicular macrophage-derived USP2 in reproduction. The msUsp2KO mice exhibited normal macrophage characteristics in various tissues. In the testis, macrophage Usp2 deficiency negligibly affected testicular macrophage subpopulations, spermatogenesis, and testicular organogenesis. However, frozen-thawed sperm derived from msUsp2KO mice exhibited reduced motility, capacitation, and hyperactivation. In addition, macrophage Usp2 ablation led to a decrease in the sperm population exhibiting high intracellular pH, calcium influx, and mitochondrial membrane potential. Interrupted pronuclei formation in eggs was observed when using frozen-thawed sperm from msUsp2KO mice for in vitro fertilization. Administration of granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), whose expression was decreased in testicular macrophages derived from msUsp2KO mice, restored mitochondrial membrane potential and total sperm motility. Our observations demonstrate a distinct role of the deubiquitinating enzyme in organ-specific macrophages that directly affect sperm function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayuko Hashimoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University, Ebetsu, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Kimura
- Division of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chihiro Kanno
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yojiro Yanagawa
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takafumi Watanabe
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University, Ebetsu, Japan
| | - Jun Okabe
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Eiki Takahashi
- Research Resources Centre, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, Japan
| | - Masashi Nagano
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, Towada, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kitamura
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University, Ebetsu, Japan.
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44
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Wagner IV, Oliver E, Dötsch J, Söder O. Adverse effects of metabolic disorders in childhood on adult reproductive function and fertility in the male. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2021; 34:13-23. [PMID: 33185575 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2020-0276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Over the last 50 years, there has been a steady decline in fertility rates in humans, which has occurred in parallel with an increasing incidence of obesity and metabolic disorders. The potential impact of these disorders and plausible mechanisms by which they negatively influence male reproduction are only partly understood and published data are often controversial. Obesity is one of the most important health challenges worldwide and is becoming more prevalent in children and adolescents. Obesity, the metabolic syndrome and related co-morbidities can lead to impaired male reproductive function, including adverse effects on spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis as illustrated by reduced sperm number and quality, decreased testosterone levels and elevated inflammatory markers. The incidence of diabetes mellitus type I is also dramatically increasing and may negatively impact spermatogenesis and testicular function, resulting in decreased serum testosterone and epididymal weight. In this review, we summarize and discuss the effects of metabolic diseases that typically develop during childhood and adolescence on later reproductive function and fertility. While impact on reproductive health is likely observed in both sexes, we have chosen to focus on the male in the current review. Specifically, we illustrate adverse effects of obesity, type 1 diabetes, the metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance on sperm function and testosterone metabolism. Identification of pathophysiological mechanisms during childhood may open up new avenues for early prevention and treatment resulting in better reproductive outcomes and improved fertility rates during adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Viola Wagner
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Pediatrics, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Cologne, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics, Medical Faculty, University of Lübeck, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Elizabeth Oliver
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden
| | - Jörg Dötsch
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Cologne, Germany
| | - Olle Söder
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Pediatrics, Medical Faculty, University of Lübeck, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Lübeck, Germany
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45
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Kaur G, Wright K, Verma S, Haynes A, Dufour JM. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Testicular Immune Regulation: A Delicate Balance Between Immune Function and Immune Privilege. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:21-47. [PMID: 34453730 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The testis is one of several immune privilege sites. These sites are necessary to decrease inflammation and immune responses that could be damaging to the host. For example, inflammation in the brain, eye or placenta could result in loss of cognitive function, vision or rejection of the semi-allogeneic fetus, respectively. In the testis, immune privilege is "good" as it is necessary for protection of the developing auto-immunogenic germ cells. However, there is also a downside or "bad" part of immune privilege, where pathogens and cancers can take advantage of this privilege and persist in the testis as a sanctuary site. Even worse, the "ugly" of privilege is how re-emerging viruses, such as Ebola and Zika viruses, can establish persistence in the testes and be sexually transmitted even months after they have been cleared from the bloodstream. In this review, we will discuss the delicate balance within the testis that provides immune privilege to protect the germ cells while still allowing for immune function to fight off pathogens and tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurvinder Kaur
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Kandis Wright
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Saguna Verma
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology, and Pharmacology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Allan Haynes
- Department of Urology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Jannette M Dufour
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA.
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46
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Heydari H, Ghiasi R, Ghaderpour S, Keyhanmanesh R. The Mechanisms Involved in Obesity-Induced Male Infertility. Curr Diabetes Rev 2021; 17:259-267. [PMID: 32814535 DOI: 10.2174/1573399816666200819114032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity resulted by imbalance between the intake of energy and energy consumption can lead to growth and metabolic disease development in people. Both in obese men and animal models, several studies indicate that obesity leads to male infertility. OBJECTIVE This review has discussed some mechanisms involved in obesity-induced male infertility. METHODS Online documents were searched through Science Direct, Pubmed, Scopus, and Google Scholar websites dating from 1959 to recognize studies on obesity, kisspeptin, leptin, and infertility. RESULTS Obesity induced elevated inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress can affect male reproductive functions, including spermatogenesis disorders, reduced male fertility power and hormones involved in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis. CONCLUSION There is significant evidence that obesity resulted in male infertility. Obesity has a negative effect on male reproductive function via several mechanisms such as inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Heydari
- Department of Physiology, Tabriz Faculty of Medical Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Rafighe Ghiasi
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saber Ghaderpour
- Department of Physiology, Tabriz Faculty of Medical Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Rana Keyhanmanesh
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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47
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Wilharm A, Brigas HC, Sandrock I, Ribeiro M, Amado T, Reinhardt A, Demera A, Hoenicke L, Strowig T, Carvalho T, Prinz I, Ribot JC. Microbiota-dependent expansion of testicular IL-17-producing Vγ6 + γδ T cells upon puberty promotes local tissue immune surveillance. Mucosal Immunol 2021; 14:242-252. [PMID: 32733025 PMCID: PMC7790758 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-020-0330-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
γδT cells represent the majority of lymphocytes in several mucosal tissues where they contribute to tissue homoeostasis, microbial defence and wound repair. Here we characterise a population of interleukin (IL) 17-producing γδ (γδ17) T cells that seed the testis of naive C57BL/6 mice, expand at puberty and persist throughout adulthood. We show that this population is foetal-derived and displays a T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire highly biased towards Vγ6-containing rearrangements. These γδ17 cells were the major source of IL-17 in the testis, whereas αβ T cells mostly provided interferon (IFN)-γ in situ. Importantly, testicular γδ17 cell homoeostasis was strongly dependent on the microbiota and Toll-like receptor (TLR4)/IL-1α/IL-23 signalling. We further found that γδ17 cells contributed to tissue surveillance in a model of experimental orchitis induced by intra-testicular inoculation of Listeria monocytogenes, as Tcrδ-/- and Il17-/- infected mice displayed higher bacterial loads than wild-type (WT) controls and died 3 days after infection. Altogether, this study identified a previously unappreciated foetal-derived γδ17 cell subset that infiltrates the testis at steady state, expands upon puberty and plays a crucial role in local tissue immune surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneke Wilharm
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Helena C Brigas
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Inga Sandrock
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Miguel Ribeiro
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tiago Amado
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Annika Reinhardt
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Abdi Demera
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Lisa Hoenicke
- Department of Microbial Immune Regulation, Helmholtz Center for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Till Strowig
- Department of Microbial Immune Regulation, Helmholtz Center for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Tânia Carvalho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Immo Prinz
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Julie C Ribot
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.
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48
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Razi M, Tavalaee M, Sarrafzadeh-Rezaei F, Moazamian A, Gharagozloo P, Drevet JR, Nasr-Eshafani MH. Varicocoele and oxidative stress: New perspectives from animal and human studies. Andrology 2020; 9:546-558. [PMID: 33145958 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varicocoele (VCL), one of the main causes of male subfertility, negatively affects testicular function. Due to limited access to human testicular tissue, animal model studies have been used to evaluate molecular and, recently, epigenetic changes attributed to pathophysiology induced by VCL. OBJECTIVES This review aims to provide an update on the latest findings regarding the link between VCL-induced biochemical stress and molecular changes in germ cells and spermatozoa. Endocrine and antioxidant status, testicular chaperone-specific hemostasis failure, altered testicular ion balance, metabolic disorders, and altered carbon cycling during spermatogenesis are among the many features that will be presented. DISCUSSION Literature review coupled with our own findings suggests that ionic imbalance, hypoxia, hyperthermia, and altered blood flow could lead to severe chronic oxidative and nitrosative stress in patients with VCL leading to defective spermatogenesis and impairment of the integrity of all sperm cell components and compartments down to the epigenetic information they carry. CONCLUSION Since oxidative stress is an important feature of the reproductive pathology of VCL, therapeutic strategies such as the administration of appropriate antioxidants could be undertaken as a complementary non-invasive treatment line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazdak Razi
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Farshid Sarrafzadeh-Rezaei
- Department of Surgery and Diagnostic Imaging, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | | | | | - Joël R Drevet
- Faculty of Medicine, GReD Institute, INSERM U1103, CNRS UMR6293, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Mohammad-Hossein Nasr-Eshafani
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
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49
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Bryan ER, Kollipara A, Trim LK, Armitage CW, Carey AJ, Mihalas B, Redgrove KA, McLaughlin EA, Beagley KW. Hematogenous dissemination of Chlamydia muridarum from the urethra in macrophages causes testicular infection and sperm DNA damage†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:748-759. [PMID: 31373361 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of Chlamydia infection, in both females and males, is increasing worldwide. Male infections have been associated clinically with urethritis, epididymitis, and orchitis, believed to be caused by ascending infection, although the impact of infection on male fertility remains controversial. Using a mouse model of male chlamydial infection, we show that all the major testicular cell populations, germ cells, Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and testicular macrophages can be productively infected. Furthermore, sperm isolated from vas deferens of infected mice also had increased levels of DNA damage as early as 4 weeks post-infection. Bilateral vasectomy, prior to infection, did not affect the chlamydial load recovered from testes at 2, 4, and 8 weeks post-infection, and Chlamydia-infected macrophages were detectable in blood and the testes as soon as 3 days post-infection. Partial depletion of macrophages with clodronate liposomes significantly reduced the testicular chlamydial burden, consistent with a hematogenous route of infection, with Chlamydia transported to the testes in infected macrophages. These data suggest that macrophages serve as Trojan horses, transporting Chlamydia from the penile urethra to the testes within 3 days of infection, bypassing the entire male reproductive tract. In the testes, infected macrophages likely transfer infection to Leydig, Sertoli, and germ cells, causing sperm DNA damage and impaired spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Bryan
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Avinash Kollipara
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Logan K Trim
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Charles W Armitage
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Alison J Carey
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Bettina Mihalas
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Kate A Redgrove
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Eileen A McLaughlin
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Science and Technology Office, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
| | - Kenneth W Beagley
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Herston, QLD, Australia
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Padilla L, Martínez-Hernández J, Barranco I, Lucas X, Pastor LM, Rodriguez-Martínez H, Roca J, Parrilla I. Granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is fully expressed in the genital tract, seminal plasma and spermatozoa of male pigs. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13360. [PMID: 32770046 PMCID: PMC7414873 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70302-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine identified in boar seminal plasma (SP) but until now unexplored in terms of place of production and its association to spermatozoa. This study aimed to explore these aspects by evaluating the presence of GM-CSF in porcine reproductive organs (testes, epididymis and accessory sex glands), SP and mature spermatozoa (from cauda epididymis and ejaculated) using Western blot (WB), immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry. Positive labelling was obtained in tissues, SP and spermatozoa. In reproductive organs, WB revealed three forms of GM-CSF with different glycosylation degrees (15, 31 and 40 kDa). In SP and epididymal fluid, the GM-CSF appeared only in its active form while in spermatozoa the GM-CSF form present varied among sperm sources. Non-viable spermatozoa showed more GM-CSF than viable spermatozoa (14.87 ± 1.98 RU vs. 7.25 ± 0.52 RU) of fluorescence intensity. In conclusion, GM-CSF is widely present in the reproductive tract of male pigs, attached to the spermatozoa already in the epididymis as well as verted to SP. Consequently, the GM-CSF ought to regulate male genital tract and sperm function as well as mediating initial inflammatory responses and further mediating later immune actions by the female to semen deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Padilla
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.,IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Jesús Martínez-Hernández
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.,IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Isabel Barranco
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.,IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum, 30100, Murcia, Spain.,Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Xiomara Lucas
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.,IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Luis M Pastor
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.,IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.,IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Parrilla
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain. .,IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum, 30100, Murcia, Spain.
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