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Maes D, Pavani KC, Nauwynck H, Van Soom A. Immunological defense mechanisms of ejaculates and the spread of viral infectious diseases through pig semen. Anim Reprod Sci 2024:107535. [PMID: 38880667 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
This review focuses on the mechanisms of immune tolerance and antimicrobial defense in the male genital tract of the pig. Sperm cells are foreign to the immune system and, therefore, they must be protected from the immune system. The blood-testis-barrier is mediated by a physical barrier between adjacent Sertoli cells, several cell types within the testis, and interactions between immunomodulatory molecules. The blood-epididymal-barrier is composed of a physical barrier that is lined with principal cells having a network of junctional complexes in their apical lateral membrane and completed by specific transporters. The seminal plasma (SP) contains many signaling agents involved in establishing a state of immune tolerance in the female genital tract, which is essential for successful fertilization. Specific SP-proteins, however, also have pro-inflammatory capacities contributing to transient uterine inflammation, supporting the removal of foreign cells, possible pathogens, and excessive spermatozoa. While many different proteins and other substances present in semen can damage sperm cells, they may also protect them against viral infections. A delicate balance of these substances, therefore, needs to be maintained. Related to this, recent studies have shown the importance of extracellular vesicles (EVs), as they contain these substances and convey immune signals. Yet, viruses may use EVs to interact with the male genital tract and circumvent immune responses. For this reason, further research needs to explore the role of EVs in the male reproductive tract, as it might contribute to elucidating the pathogenesis of viral infections that might be transmitted via semen and to developing better vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominiek Maes
- Unit of Porcine Health Management, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium.
| | - Krishna C Pavani
- Reproductive Biology Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium
| | - Hans Nauwynck
- Laboratory of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Reproductive Biology Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium
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2
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Spanner EA, de Graaf SP, Rickard JP. Factors affecting the success of laparoscopic artificial insemination in sheep. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 264:107453. [PMID: 38547814 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Successful artificial breeding underpins rapid genetic and production gains in animal agriculture. In sheep, artificial insemination with frozen semen is performed via intrauterine laparoscopy as frozen-thawed spermatozoa do not traverse the cervix in sufficient numbers for high fertility and transcervical insemination is anatomically impossible in most ewes. Historically, laparoscopic artificial insemination has always been considered reasonably successful, but recent anecdotal reports of poor fertility place it at risk of warning adoption. Understanding the male, female and environmental factors that influence the fertility of sheep is warranted if the success of artificial insemination is to be improved and genetic progress maximised for the sheep industry. This review details the current practice of laparoscopic AI in sheep. It explores the effects of semen quantity and quality, the ewe, her preparation, and environmental conditions, on the fertility obtained following laparoscopic artificial insemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A Spanner
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - S P de Graaf
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - J P Rickard
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW 2006, Australia
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Sánchez JM, Rabaglino MB, Bagés-Arnal S, McDonald M, Behura SK, Spencer TE, Lonergan P, Fernandez-Fuertes B. Sperm exposure to accessory gland secretions alters the transcriptomic response of the endometrium in cattle. Theriogenology 2024; 218:26-34. [PMID: 38295677 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.01.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
In cattle, mating to intact, but not vasectomised, bulls has been shown to modify the endometrial transcriptome, suggesting an important role of sperm in the modulation of the uterine environment in this species. However, it is not clear whether these changes are driven by intrinsic sperm factors, or by factors of accessory gland (AG) origin that bind to sperm at ejaculation. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to determine whether ejaculated sperm, which are suspended in the secretions of the AGs, elicit a different endometrial transcriptomic response than epididymal sperm, which have never been exposed to AG factors. To this end, bovine endometrial explants collected from heifers in oestrus were (co-)incubated for 6 h alone (control), or with epididymal sperm or ejaculated sperm, following which transcriptomic changes in the endometrium were evaluated. Epididymal sperm elicited a more dramatic endometrial response than ejaculated sperm, in terms of the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Indeed, RNA-sequencing data analysis revealed 1912 DEGs in endometrial explants exposed to epididymal sperm compared with control explants, whereas 115 DEGs were detected between endometrial explants exposed to ejaculated sperm in comparison to control explants. The top pathways associated with genes upregulated by epididymal sperm included T cell regulation and TNF, NF-KB and IL17 signalling. Interestingly, ejaculated sperm induced downregulation of genes associated with T cell immunity and Th17 differentiation, and upregulation of genes involved in NF-KB signalling, in comparison to epididymal sperm. These data indicate that factors of AG origin modulate the interaction between sperm and the endometrium in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- José María Sánchez
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (INIA), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - María Belén Rabaglino
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Sandra Bagés-Arnal
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Michael McDonald
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Susanta K Behura
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Thomas E Spencer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Beatriz Fernandez-Fuertes
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (INIA), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.
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Cambra JM, Gil MA, Cuello C, Gonzalez-Plaza A, Rodriguez-Martinez H, Klymiuk N, Martinez EA, Parrilla I. Cytokine profile in peripheral blood mononuclear cells differs between embryo donor and potential recipient sows. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1333941. [PMID: 38601906 PMCID: PMC11006195 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1333941] [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: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pregnancy success relies on the establishment of a delicate immune balance that requires the early activation of a series of local and systemic immune mechanisms. The changes in the immunological profile that are normally occurring in the pregnant uterus does not take place in cyclic (non-pregnant) uterus, a fact that has been widely explored in pigs at the tissue local level. Such differences would be especially important in the context of embryo transfer (ET), where a growing body of literature indicates that immunological differences at the uterine level between donors and recipients may significantly impact embryonic mortality. However, whether components of peripheral immunity also play a role in this context remains unknown. Accordingly, our hypothesis is that the immune status of donor sows differs from potential recipients, not only at the tissue local level but also at the systemic level. These differences could contribute to the high embryonic mortality rates occurring in ET programs. Methods In this study differences in systemic immunity, based on cytokine gene expression profile in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), between embryo-bearing donor (DO group; N = 10) and potential recipient sows (RE group; N = 10) at Day 6 after the onset of the estrus were explored. Gene expression analysis was conducted for 6 proinflammatory (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, GM-CSF, IFN-γ, and TNF-α) and 6 anti-inflammatory (IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13, TGF-β1, and LIF) cytokines. Results and discussion All cytokines were overexpressed in the DO group except for IL-4, suggesting that stimuli derived from the insemination and/or the resultant embryos modify the systemic immune profile in DO sows compared to RE (lacking these stimuli). Our results also suggest that certain cytokines (e.g., IL-1α and IL-1β) might have a predictive value for the pregnancy status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep M. Cambra
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
- Large Animal Models in Cardiovascular Research, Internal Medical Department I, TU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Maria A. Gil
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
| | - Cristina Cuello
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
| | - Alejandro Gonzalez-Plaza
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Nikolai Klymiuk
- Large Animal Models in Cardiovascular Research, Internal Medical Department I, TU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Emilio A. Martinez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Parrilla
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
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Álvarez-Rodríguez M, Martinez-Serrano CA, Gardela J, Nieto H, de Mercado E, Rodríguez-Martínez H. MicroRNA expression in specific segments of the pig periovulatory internal genital tract is differentially regulated by semen or by seminal plasma. Res Vet Sci 2024; 168:105134. [PMID: 38194892 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
microRNAs play pivotal roles during mammalian reproduction, including the cross-talk between gametes, embryos and the maternal genital tract. Mating induces changes in the expression of mRNA transcripts in the female, but whether miRNAs are involved remains to be elucidated. In the current study, we mapped 181 miRNAs in the porcine peri-ovulatory female reproductive tract: Cervix (Cvx), distal and proximal uterus (Dist-Ut, Prox-Ut), Utero-tubal-junction (UTJ), isthmus (Isth), ampulla (Amp), and infundibulum (Inf) when exposed to semen (natural mating (NM) or artificial insemination (AI-P1)) or to infusions of sperm-free seminal plasma (SP): the first 10 mL of the sperm rich fraction (SP-P1) or the entire ejaculate (SP-E). Among the most interesting findings, NM decreased mir-671, implicated in uterine development and pregnancy loss prior to embryo implantation, in Cvx, Dist-UT, Prox-UT, Isth, and Inf, while it increased in Amp. NM and SP-E induced the downregulation of miR-let7A-1 (Dist-UT, Prox-UT), a regulator of immunity during pregnancy. miR-34C-1, a regulator of endometrial receptivity gene expression, was increased in Dist-UT, UTJ and Amp (NM), in Prox-UT (AI-P1), and in Amp (SP-P1). miR-296, a modulator of the inflammatory response and apoptosis, was upregulated in the UTJ (all treatments). NM elicited the highest miRNA activity in the sperm reservoir (UTJ), suggesting that key-regulators such as miR-34c or miR-296 may modulate the metabolic processes linked to the adequate preparation for gamete encounter in the oviduct. Our results suggest that SP should be maintained in AI to warrant miRNA regulation within the female genital tract for reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Álvarez-Rodríguez
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Spanish National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology (INIA-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain; Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Cristina A Martinez-Serrano
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Spanish National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology (INIA-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain; Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Jaume Gardela
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; IRTA, Programa de Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain; Unitat mixta d'Investigació IRTA-UAB en Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Helena Nieto
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Spanish National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology (INIA-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo de Mercado
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Spanish National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology (INIA-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Heriberto Rodríguez-Martínez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden.
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Miller DJ. Sperm in the Mammalian Female Reproductive Tract: Surfing Through the Tract to Try to Beat the Odds. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2024; 12:301-319. [PMID: 37906840 PMCID: PMC11149062 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-021022-040629] [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] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian sperm are deposited in the vagina or the cervix/uterus at coitus or at artificial insemination, and the fertilizing sperm move through the female reproductive tract to the ampulla of the oviduct, the site of fertilization. But the destination of most sperm is not the oviduct. Most sperm are carried by retrograde fluid flow to the vagina, are phagocytosed, and/or do not pass barriers on the pathway to the oviduct. The sperm that reach the site of fertilization are the exceptions and winners of one of the most stringent selection processes in nature. This review discusses the challenges sperm encounter and how the few sperm that reach the site of fertilization overcome them. The sperm that reach the goal must navigate viscoelastic fluid, swim vigorously and cooperatively along the walls of the female tract, avoid the innate immune system, and respond to potential cues to direct their movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Miller
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA;
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Álvarez-Rodríguez M, Roca J, Martínez EA, Rodríguez-Martínez H. Mating modifies the expression of crucial oxidative-reductive transcripts in the pig oviductal sperm reservoir: is the female ensuring sperm survival? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1042176. [PMID: 37351104 PMCID: PMC10282951 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1042176] [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: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mating induces large changes in the female genital tract, warranting female homeostasis and immune preparation for pregnancy, including the preservation of crucial oxidative status among its pathways. Being highly susceptible to oxidative stress, sperm survival and preserved function depend on the seminal plasma, a protection that is removed during sperm handling but also after mating when spermatozoa enter the oviduct. Therefore, it is pertinent to consider that the female sperm reservoir takes up this protection, providing a suitable environment for sperm viability. These aspects have not been explored despite the increasing strategies in modulating the female status through diet control and nutritional supplementation. Aims To test the hypothesis that mating modifies the expression of crucial oxidative-reductive transcripts across the entire pig female genital tract (cervix to infundibulum) and, particularly in the sperm reservoir at the utero-tubal junction, before ovulation, a period dominated by estrogen stimulation of ovarian as well as of seminal origin. Methods The differential expression of estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR) receptors and of 59 oxidative-reductive transcripts were studied using a species-specific microarray platform, in specific segments of the peri-ovulatory sow reproductive tract in response to mating. Results Mating induced changes along the entire tract, with a conspicuous downregulation of both ER and PR and an upregulation of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), glutaredoxin (GLRX3), and peroxiredoxin 1 and 3 (PRDX1, PRDX3), among other NADH Dehydrogenase Ubiquinone Flavoproteins, in the distal uterus segment. These changes perhaps helped prevent oxidative stress in the area adjacent to the sperm reservoir at the utero-tubal junction. Concomitantly, there were a downregulation of catalase (CAT) and NADH dehydrogenase (ubiquinone) oxidoreductases 1 beta subcomplex, subunit 1 (NDUFB1) in the utero-tubal junction alongside an overall downregulation of CAT, SOD1, and PRDX3 in the ampullar and infundibulum segments. Conclusions Natural mating is an inducer of changes in the expression of female genes commanding antioxidant enzymes relevant for sperm survival during sperm transport, under predominant estrogen influence through the bloodstream and semen. The findings could contribute to the design of new therapeutics for the female to improve oxidative-reductive balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Álvarez-Rodríguez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA)-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Emilio A. Martínez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Heriberto Rodríguez-Martínez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Li R, Song W, Qu J, Liu H, Qi J, He Y, Niu J. Transcriptome sequencing reveals ovarian immune response and development during female sperm storage in viviparous black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii). COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY. PART D, GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2023; 45:101050. [PMID: 36525779 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2022.101050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii) is a viviparous teleost fish whose spermatozoa were transferred into the female ovary cavity and stored for up to five months and then fertilized with the matured eggs. There is no clarity about the molecular characteristics of ovarian follicles during female sperm storage in Sebastes schlegelii. In this study, histological observation, transcriptomic analysis and hormone level detection were performed in ovaries at stages of pre-mating (PRM), post-mating (POM) and pre-fertilization (PRF). Histological observation displayed that oocytes developed from the primary growth (PG) stage to the mature stage during the three stages. Furthermore, somatic cells around the oocyte were proliferated and spermatozoa were found near the layer of epithelial cells. Transcriptomic analysis showed that there were 437 and 747 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in ovarian comparison of PRM-vs-POM and POM-vs-PRF, respectively. GO enrichment and KEGG analysis revealed that lots of DEGs from PRM-vs-POM were linked to immune-related pathways, such as antigen processing and presentation, immune response, and complement and coagulation cascade. Meanwhile, seven DEGs associated with immune response were differentially expressed after spermatozoa treatment in ovarian tissue in vitro. While the DEGs from POM-vs-PRF were mostly enriched in the pathways related to homeostasis maintenance and cellular junction and metabolism. In addition, we found increased estrogen (E2) and 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) level and decreased testosterone level in ovarian follicles during the sperm storage period by ELISA, suggesting that sex hormones are involved in the dynamic change of ovarian follicles. In total, this study could provide new hints for understanding the immune adaption and developmental signatures of ovarian follicles post copulation in black rockfish and other viviparous fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Weihao Song
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Jiangbo Qu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Huaxiang Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Jie Qi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya 572000, China
| | - Yan He
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya 572000, China
| | - Jingjing Niu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China.
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Warr S, Pini T, de Graaf SP, Rickard JP. Molecular insights to the sperm-cervix interaction and the consequences for cryopreserved sperm. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:183-196. [PMID: 36191077 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac188] [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: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreserved ram spermatozoa are limited in their capacity to traverse the ovine cervix and achieve fertilization. This altered interaction may be related to modified molecular communication between frozen-thawed ram spermatozoa, seminal plasma, and the female tract. As such, this review aims to identify the biological processes which underpin sperm maturation and transport throughout the female reproductive tract to elucidate factors which may alter this natural process in cryopreserved ram spermatozoa. We also assess critical barriers to ram spermatozoa specific to the ovine cervix and the role of seminal plasma in mitigating these barriers. Transcriptomics is explored as a new approach to understand the sperm-cervix interaction. Recent studies have demonstrated that both spermatozoa and seminal plasma contain a complex profile of coding and non-coding RNAs. These molecular species have clear links with functional fertility, and mounting evidence suggests they may be altered by cryopreservation. Emerging in vitro cell culture models are also investigated as a "next step" in studying this interaction, utilizing transcriptomics to identify subtle changes in female tract gene expression in response to spermatozoa. The application of such models is proposed as an exciting opportunity to investigate the unique challenges faced by cryopreserved spermatozoa traversing the ovine cervix prior to fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Warr
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Taylor Pini
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Simon P de Graaf
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jessica P Rickard
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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10
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Dexamethasone affects the chemotaxis and phagocytic activity of neutrophils for boar spermatozoa and the quality of liquid preserved boar semen in vitro. Theriogenology 2023; 195:46-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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11
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Rodriguez-Martinez H, Roca J, Alvarez-Rodriguez M, Martinez-Serrano CA. How does the boar epididymis regulate the emission of fertile spermatozoa? Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:106829. [PMID: 34452796 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The epididymis is responsible for peripheral immune tolerance of maturing spermatozoa even though these have xeno-antigens foreign to the male and female immune system. The epididymis also produces factors required for fertilization and serves as a sperm repository until the time of ejaculation. These reproduction-relevant epididymal functions occur in the mesonephros-derived duct-system that is composed of absorptive and secretory epithelial cells with the capacity for merocrine and apocrine secretion of proteins, antioxidative- and electrolyte/pH-regulating enzymes and small, non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs), many stored in epididymosomes for sperm adhesion and long-lasting modifications of sperm functions. This paper provides a review summary of current and new knowledge of how the boar epididymis affects the quality of spermatozoa in the ejaculate of breeding boars. There is a particular focus on sperm maturation, survival, function and the role of signaling to the female immune system in fertility modulation. Furthermore, aspects related to the ductus epithelial contributions regarding electrolyte control, protein production, release of epididymosomes that contain sncRNAs are emphasized as are novel associations with fertility of the male, sperm quiescence during storage in the cauda epididymis, and on changes occurring in sperm subsequent to ejaculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Cristina A Martinez-Serrano
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185, Linköping, Sweden
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12
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Rodriguez-Martinez H, Roca J. Extracellular vesicles in seminal plasma: A safe and relevant tool to improve fertility in livestock? Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 244:107051. [PMID: 35933831 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP) is not a pre-requisite for pregnancy. Yet, this heterogeneous, composite SP has proven relevant for fertility, as mediator for cell-to-cell communication between producing cells, spermatozoa and the female internal genital tract, regulating complex reproductive processes. Bearing hormones, proteins, cytokines as well as nuclei acids in nano-sized lipid bilayer seminal extracellular vesicles (sEVs), the SP concerts signaling to the female. Signals influence timing of ovulation, sperm transport and, particularly, enable the female immune system to balance her cryptic choice to engage into pregnancy or reject an eventual fertilization. This essay, focusing on livestock in general and pigs in particular, discusses the intrinsic roles of sEVs with regards to reproductive homeostasis, while binding and internalizing their cargo in spermatozoa and female tract epithelia to regulate their functional activity. Since prior studies had inconclusive results using bulk SP or single SP-contained free molecules, argumentation is hereby provided to increase the current incipient research on livestock sEVs, where fragile molecules relevant for fertility are shielded from degradation during handling. Seminal EVs isolated from SP can be used for andrological diagnosis and perhaps to select breeders with optimal fertility. Moreover, sEVs can be laboratory-uploaded with specific molecules or even engineered as lipid nanodroplets used as additives for extenders to improve fertility after artificial insemination (AI) or reproductive biotechnologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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13
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Ruiz S, Gardón JC, Hernández-Caravaca I, Luongo C, García-Vázquez FA. Analysis of Uterine Blood Flow in Breeding Sows through the Estrus and Early Diestrus, and after Artificial Insemination. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9060260. [PMID: 35737312 PMCID: PMC9228517 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9060260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine uterine blood flow indices by transabdominal Doppler ultrasound in sows (n = 18) under different conditions: (i) sows after estrus detection (day 0, D0); (ii) sows 2 h after artificial insemination (AI), performed 24 h after detection of estrus (day 1, D1); (iii) sows in early diestrus (day 5, D5). Moreover, three different types of seminal doses were used for AI depending on the ejaculate fraction included (F1: doses containing only the rich fraction of the ejaculate; F2: F1 + the transition fraction between rich and poor fractions; F3: F2 and poor fraction). The statistical analysis revealed significant differences in some indices regarding the period of analysis (D0, D1, and D5). Diastolic velocity and mean velocity showed lower values at D5 in comparison with D0 and D1 (p < 0.01). On the other hand, the pulsatility index and the relationship systolic velocity/diastolic velocity indicated higher values at D5 in comparison with D0 and D1 (p < 0.01). No differences were observed regarding the type of seminal dose used in any of the time points analyzed (p > 0.05). Neither insemination per se nor the type of ejaculate fraction used immediately modified the uterine vascularity, but some indices are affected by the stage of the estrus cycle (estrus vs. early diestrus).
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvador Ruiz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Mare Nostrum Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (S.R.); (C.L.)
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Virgen de la Arrixaca), 30120 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Juan Carlos Gardón
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary and Experimental Sciences, Catholic University of Valencia-San Vicente Mártir, Guillem de Castro 106, 46003 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Iván Hernández-Caravaca
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Virgen de la Arrixaca), 30120 Murcia, Spain;
- Departamento de Enfermería Comunitaria, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública e Historia de la Ciencia, Facultad Ciencias de la Salud, Campus de Sant Vicent del Raspeig, E-03080 Sant Vicent del Raspeig, Spain
| | - Chiara Luongo
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Mare Nostrum Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (S.R.); (C.L.)
| | - Francisco Alberto García-Vázquez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Mare Nostrum Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (S.R.); (C.L.)
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Virgen de la Arrixaca), 30120 Murcia, Spain;
- Correspondence:
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14
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Spatiotemporal profiling of the bovine oviduct fluid proteome around the time of ovulation. Sci Rep 2022; 12:4135. [PMID: 35264682 PMCID: PMC8907256 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07929-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the composition of the oviduct fluid (OF) is crucial to better comprehend the microenvironment in which sperm capacitation, fertilization and early embryo development take place. Therefore, our aim was to determine the spatiotemporal changes in the OF proteome according to the anatomical region of the oviduct (ampulla vs. isthmus), the proximity of the ovulating ovary (ipsilateral vs. contralateral side) and the peri-ovulatory stage (pre-ovulatory or Pre-ov vs. post-ovulatory or Post-ov). Oviducts from adult cyclic cows were collected at a local slaughterhouse and pools of OF were analyzed by nanoLC-MS/MS and label-free protein quantification (n = 32 OF pools for all region × stage × side conditions). A total of 3760 proteins were identified in the OF, of which 65% were predicted to be potentially secreted. The oviduct region was the major source of variation in protein abundance, followed by the proximity of the ovulating ovary and finally the peri-ovulatory stage. Differentially abundant proteins between regions, stages and sides were involved in a broad variety of biological functions, including protein binding, response to stress, cell-to-cell adhesion, calcium homeostasis and the immune system. This work highlights the dynamic regulation of oviduct secretions and provides new protein candidates for interactions between the maternal environment, the gametes and the early embryo.
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Should All Fractions of the Boar Ejaculate Be Prepared for Insemination Rather Than Using the Sperm Rich Only? BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020210. [PMID: 35205077 PMCID: PMC8869087 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary The swine industry is constantly looking for efficiency improvement, especially focusing on the artificial insemination (AI) process. One of the trends in AI centers is to maximize the number of doses obtained from one ejaculate. Seminal doses are usually prepared with the sperm-rich fraction or the whole ejaculate, but further studies are needed to understand how to prepare them properly. Thus, this study aims to analyze how accumulative ejaculate fractions may influence sperm storage, AI performance, and offspring. The results indicate that the presence of all ejaculate fractions within seminal doses does not affect either sperm quality or AI performance and offspring health. Therefore, this study highlights the possibility to use the bulk ejaculate for seminal dose preparation, leading to successful AI. Additionally, it results in a more time-efficient preparation of a greater number of seminal doses providing an economic advantage. Abstract Boar ejaculate is released in several well-characterized fractions, differing in terms of sperm concentration, seminal plasma volume, and composition. However, the inclusion of the last part of the ejaculate for artificial insemination (AI) purposes is still under debate due to its controversial effects. Thus, there is a need to study the potential synergistic impact of the different ejaculate fractions. We aimed to evaluate the effect of accumulative ejaculate fractions on sperm conservation, AI performance, and offspring health. Ejaculates (n = 51) were collected and distributed as follows: F1: sperm-rich fraction; F2: sperm-rich + intermediate fractions; F3: sperm-rich + intermediate + poor fractions. Each group was diluted in a commercial extender, packaged in seminal doses (2000 × 106 sperm/60 mL), and stored at ~16 °C. On day 3 of conservation, sperm were analyzed and used for AI (n = 174). High sperm quality was observed after storage without a significant difference between the groups (p > 0.05). Moreover, no differences were obtained for AI performance (pregnancy and farrowing rates, and litter size; p > 0.05) and offspring health (growth and blood analysis; p > 0.05). Conclusively, the presence of all ejaculate fractions within the seminal doses does not impair the reproductive performance, reporting important economic savings according to the economic model included here.
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Alvarez-Rodriguez M, Martinez CA, Roca J, Rodriguez-Martinez H. mRNA expression of oxidative-reductive proteins in boars with documented different fertility can identify relevant prognostic biomarkers. Res Vet Sci 2021; 141:195-202. [PMID: 34763256 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress unbalance is a major factor causing impairment of sperm function and, ultimately, sperm death. In this study, we identified transcriptomic and proteomic markers for oxidative-related protectors from the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in spermatozoa from breeding boars with documented high- or low-fertility. Particular attention was paid to glutathione peroxidases, and to transcripts related to DNA stabilization and compaction, as protamine and transition proteins. mRNA cargo analysis was performed using porcine-specific micro-arrays (GeneChip® miRNA 4.0 and GeneChip® Porcine Gene 1.0 ST) and qPCR validation. Differences between fertility-classed boars were ample among biomarkers; some upregulated only at protein level (catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) and glutathione proteins), or only at the mRNA level (ATOX1, Antioxidant Protein 1). In addition, protamines 2 and 3, essential for sperm DNA condensation and also transition proteins 1 and 2 (TNP1 and TNP2), required during histone-to-protamine replacement, were overexpressed in spermatozoa from high-fertile boars. This up-regulation seems concerted to reduce DNA accessibility to ROS attack, protecting the DNA. The upregulated intracellular phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase (GPx4), in high-fertile boars at mRNA level, can be considered a most relevant biomarker for fertility disclosure during sperm evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Cristina A Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden
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17
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Fractionated Seminal Plasma of Boar Ejaculates Analyzed by LC-MS/MS: Its Effects on Post-Thaw Semen Quality. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12101574. [PMID: 34680969 PMCID: PMC8536186 DOI: 10.3390/genes12101574] [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: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to characterize the protein composition of fractionated seminal plasma (SP) by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) analysis and investigate its effects on survival of frozen-thaw (FT) boar spermatozoa following storage. Seminal plasma (SP) was fractionated by gel filtration chromatography to give two fractions, SP1 with more than 40 kDa (>40 kDa) and SP2 with less than 40 kDa (<40 kDa). SP1 and SP2 were subjected to LC–MS/MS and bioinformatics analysis. Following cryopreservation, FT boar semen (n = 7) was thawed in Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS), BTS + SP1 or BTS + SP2, stored at different periods and subjected to post-thaw (PT) quality assessment. A total of 52 and 22 abundant proteins were detected in SP1 and SP2, respectively. FN1, ANGPTL1, and KIF15 proteins were more abundance in SP1, whereas a high abundance of spermadhesins (PSP-I and PSP-II) was detected in SP2. Proteins of the fractionated SP were involved in various biological processes, such as cell motility and signal transduction. The dominant pathway of SP1 proteins was the apelin signaling pathway (GNA13, MEF2D, SPHK2, and MEF2C), whereas a pathway related to lysosome (CTSH, CTSB, and NPC2) was mainly represented by SP2 proteins. In most of the boars, significantly higher motility characteristics, membrane integrity, and viability were observed in FT spermatozoa exposed to SP1 or SP2 compared with BTS. The results of our study confirm that a combination of several proteins from the fractionated SP exerted beneficial effects on the sperm membrane, resulting in improved quality characteristics following PT storage.
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18
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Ribeiro JC, Braga PC, Martins AD, Silva BM, Alves MG, Oliveira PF. Antioxidants Present in Reproductive Tract Fluids and Their Relevance for Fertility. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10091441. [PMID: 34573073 PMCID: PMC8466935 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10091441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, infertility is classified as a disease of the reproductive system. Although it does not compromise the life of the individual, it can have detrimental effects on the physiological and psychological health of the couple. Male fertility evaluation is mainly focused on the analysis of sperm parameters. However, the ejaculated fluid is also composed of seminal plasma, and the study of this fluid can provide crucial information to help in the assessment of male fertility status. Total antioxidant capacity of the seminal plasma has been positively correlated with the fertility of men. Moreover, evidence highlights to a similar importance as that of female reproductive tract fluid antioxidant capabilities and female fertility. Herein, we describe the functions of seminal plasma and female reproductive tract fluids, as well as their main antioxidant components and their relationships with fertility outcomes. Additionally, this review contains the most up to date information regarding the mechanisms of the interaction between the male and the female reproductive fluids and the importance of proper antioxidant capacity for fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- João C. Ribeiro
- Department of Anatomy, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.R.); (P.C.B.); (M.G.A.)
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Patrícia C. Braga
- Department of Anatomy, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.R.); (P.C.B.); (M.G.A.)
| | - Ana D. Martins
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Branca M. Silva
- CICS, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal;
| | - Marco G. Alves
- Department of Anatomy, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.R.); (P.C.B.); (M.G.A.)
| | - Pedro F. Oliveira
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-234370718
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19
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Rodriguez-Martinez H, Martinez EA, Calvete JJ, Peña Vega FJ, Roca J. Seminal Plasma: Relevant for Fertility? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094368. [PMID: 33922047 PMCID: PMC8122421 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP), the non-cellular component of semen, is a heterogeneous composite fluid built by secretions of the testis, the epididymis and the accessory sexual glands. Its composition, despite species-specific anatomical peculiarities, consistently contains inorganic ions, specific hormones, proteins and peptides, including cytokines and enzymes, cholesterol, DNA and RNA-the latter often protected within epididymis- or prostate-derived extracellular vesicles. It is beyond question that the SP participates in diverse aspects of sperm function pre-fertilization events. The SP also interacts with the various compartments of the tubular genital tract, triggering changes in gene function that prepares for an eventual successful pregnancy; thus, it ultimately modulates fertility. Despite these concepts, it is imperative to remember that SP-free spermatozoa (epididymal or washed ejaculated) are still fertile, so this review shall focus on the differences between the in vivo roles of the SP following semen deposition in the female and those regarding additions of SP on spermatozoa handled for artificial reproduction, including cryopreservation, from artificial insemination to in vitro fertilization. This review attempts, including our own results on model animal species, to critically summarize the current knowledge of the reproductive roles played by SP components, particularly in our own species, which is increasingly affected by infertility. The ultimate goal is to reconcile the delicate balance between the SP molecular concentration and their concerted effects after temporal exposure in vivo. We aim to appraise the functions of the SP components, their relevance as diagnostic biomarkers and their value as eventual additives to refine reproductive strategies, including biotechnologies, in livestock models and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-132-869-25
| | - Emilio A. Martinez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (E.A.M.); (J.R.)
| | - Juan J. Calvete
- Laboratorio de Venómica Estructural y Funcional, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, C.S.I.C., 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Fernando J. Peña Vega
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, 10003 Caceres, Spain;
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (E.A.M.); (J.R.)
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20
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Lacalle E, Núñez A, Fernández-Alegre E, Crespo-Félez I, Domínguez JC, Alonso ME, González-Urdiales R, Martínez-Pastor F. Cold-Shock Test Is a Practical Method for Selecting Boar Ejaculates Yielding Appropriate Seminal Plasma for Post-Thawing Supplementation. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030871. [PMID: 33803834 PMCID: PMC8003138 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030871] [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: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The pig industry routinely uses artificial insemination with refrigerated semen. Cryopreserved semen has many advantages, but it is not widely used, partly because of unreliable results. The supplementation with seminal plasma (SP) could improve these results, but this fluid also presents variability. We evaluated if a simple cold-shock test (CST) could allow to easily identify the most suitable ejaculates for obtaining SP. Therefore, we tested 63 ejaculates, obtaining SP from the 4 showing higher quality (SPr, cold-shock-resistant) and lower quality (SPs, cold-shock-sensitive) after the CST. SPs and SPr pools supplemented thawed semen (20% SP) from six different boars, incubating at 37 °C and analyzing at times 0, 2, and 4 h. SPr was able to improve post-thawing sperm motility while maintaining viability. SPs had a similar but lower effect. SP in general seemed to stimulate sperm physiology, however decreasing membrane stability, acrosomal integrity, and disulfide bridges in the chromatin. This study supports the suitability of SP for improving thawed semen, with CST-selected ejaculates as preferable for this aim. Artificial insemination trials with thawed semen supplemented with SPr and SPs must validate the practical application of CST. Abstract Artificial insemination (AI) with cryopreserved semen is still unreliable for extensive pig industry application. Adding seminal plasma (SP) could improve post-thawing quality, but its suitability could vary. We applied a simple cold-shock test (CST, 5 min at 0 °C) on neat semen for classifying ejaculates (n = 63) as resistant or sensitive, obtaining two SP pools (CST-resistant: SPr, sensitive: SPs). Subsequently, frozen/thawed spermatozoa from six boars were incubated (37 °C) in MR-A® extender (control), 20% SPr, or 20% SPs, and analyzed at 0, 2, and 4 h. SP improved total and progressive motility, with a higher effect for SPr and STR (p < 0.05), decreasing kinematic parameters VCL and VAP, ALH, and BCF. Sperm viability was unaffected. SP increased apoptotic and membrane disorder ratios, and acrosomal damage, not affecting the chromatin structure (DNA fragmentation and immaturity by SCSA), protamination (CMA3), or disulfide levels (mBBr). However, the proportion of spermatozoa with elevated free thiols (disulfide bridges reduction) significantly increased. Results support a stimulatory role of SP on thawed semen, with additional benefits from SPr. The effect of SP and especially SPr after AI should be tested since CST could be a practical test for selecting suitable ejaculates in AI centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estíbaliz Lacalle
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (E.L.); (A.N.); (I.C.-F.); (J.C.D.)
| | - Andrea Núñez
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (E.L.); (A.N.); (I.C.-F.); (J.C.D.)
| | | | - Itxaso Crespo-Félez
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (E.L.); (A.N.); (I.C.-F.); (J.C.D.)
- Topigs Norsvin España SLU (AIM Ibérica), 24225 León, Spain;
| | - Juan Carlos Domínguez
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (E.L.); (A.N.); (I.C.-F.); (J.C.D.)
- Department of Animal Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy (Animal Medicine and Surgery), Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Marta Elena Alonso
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain;
| | | | - Felipe Martínez-Pastor
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (E.L.); (A.N.); (I.C.-F.); (J.C.D.)
- Department of Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-987-291-491
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21
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López-Albors O, Llamas-López PJ, Ortuño JÁ, Latorre R, García-Vázquez FA. In vivo measurement of pH and CO 2 levels in the uterus of sows through the estrous cycle and after insemination. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3194. [PMID: 33542361 PMCID: PMC7862298 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82620-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The pH-CO2-HCO3- system is a ubiquitous biological regulator with important functional implications for reproduction. Knowledge of the physiological values of its components is relevant for reproductive biology and the optimization of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs). However, in situ measurements of these parameters in the uterus are scarce or null. This study describes a non-invasive method for in situ time-lapse recording of pH and CO2 within the uterus of non-anesthetized sows. Animals were at three different reproductive conditions, estrous with no insemination and two hours after insemination, and diestrous. From pH and CO2 data, HCO3- concentration was estimated. The non-invasive approach to the porcine uterus with novel optical probes allowed the obtaining of in situ physiological values of pH, CO2, and HCO3-. Variable oscillatory patterns of pH, CO2 and HCO3- were found independently of the estrous condition. Insemination did not immediately change the levels of uterine pH, CO2 (%) and HCO3- concentration, but all the values were affected by the estrous cycle decreasing significantly at diestrous condition. This study contributes to a better understanding of the in vivo regulation of the pH-CO2-HCO3- system in the uterus and may help to optimize the protocols of sperm treatment for in vitro fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Octavio López-Albors
- grid.10586.3a0000 0001 2287 8496Department of Anatomy and Comparative Pathology, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain ,International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia, Spain
| | - Pedro José Llamas-López
- grid.10586.3a0000 0001 2287 8496Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Joaquín Ángel Ortuño
- grid.10586.3a0000 0001 2287 8496Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Rafael Latorre
- grid.10586.3a0000 0001 2287 8496Department of Anatomy and Comparative Pathology, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain ,International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia, Spain
| | - Francisco Alberto García-Vázquez
- International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia, Spain ,grid.10586.3a0000 0001 2287 8496Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain ,grid.452553.0Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
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Bogacki M, Jalali BM, Wieckowska A, Kaczmarek MM. Prolonged Effect of Seminal Plasma on Global Gene Expression in Porcine Endometrium. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11111302. [PMID: 33153118 PMCID: PMC7692128 DOI: 10.3390/genes11111302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP) deposited in the porcine uterine tract at the time of mating is known to elicit an initial response that is beneficial for pregnancy outcome. However, whether SP has any long-term effect on alterations in endometrial molecular and cellular processes is not known. In this study, using microarray analyses, differential changes in endometrial transcriptome were evaluated after Day 6 of SP-infusion (6DPI) or Day 6 of pregnancy as compared to corresponding day of estrous cycle. Both, pregnancy and SP induced significant changes in the endometrial transcriptome and most of these changes were specific for a particular group. Functional analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis revealed that inhibition in immune response was affected by both pregnancy and SP infusion. Long-term effects of SP included differential expression of genes involved in inhibition of apoptosis, production of reactive oxygen species and steroid biosynthesis, and activation of processes such as proliferation of connective tissue cells and microvascular endothelial cells. Moreover, interleukin-2 and interferon-γ was identified to be responsible for regulating expression of many DEGs identified on 6DPI. The present study provides evidence for the long-term effects of SP on porcine endometrium that can be beneficial for pregnancy success.
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Daigneault BW. Dynamics of paternal contributions to early embryo development in large animals. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:274-281. [PMID: 32997138 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on current knowledge of paternal contributions to preimplantation embryonic development with particular emphasis on large animals. Specifically, the included content aims to summarize genomic and epigenomic contributions of paternally expressed genes, their regulation, and chromatin structure that are indispensable for early embryo development. The accumulation of current knowledge will summarize conserved allelic function among species to include functional molecular and genomic studies across large domestic animals in context with reference to founding experimental models.
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Marco-Jiménez F, Borrás S, Garcia-Dominguez X, D'Auria G, Vicente JS, Marin C. Roles of host genetics and sperm microbiota in reproductive success in healthy rabbit. Theriogenology 2020; 158:416-423. [PMID: 33039925 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Although the effects of sperm microbiota and sperm quality have been described previously, recent studies provide evidence that female genital modifications triggered by seminal components could be of significant importance to identify some disturbances associated with fertility. So, sperm microbiota could play a key role in sperm quality, contributing to fertilisation. To understand how sperm microbiota diversity is influenced by the host genetics, the symbiotic bacteria in four inbred lines raised in the same animal facility and their effects on sperm quality and fertility were analysed. Forty healthy rabbits from four selected Spanish commercial lines were used in this research (three based on litter performance, designated A, V and LP, and one selected for daily body weight gain, called R). Significant variations in the seminal concentration, morphology and some motion parameters were found among inbred lines, but sperm motility and viability were similar among inbred lines. After mating, inbred lines selected for litter size had the same fertility rate, significantly higher than inbred line selected for body weight (82 ± 3.3%, 79 ± 3.5% and 89 ± 4.5% versus 61 ± 3.7%, for the A, V and LP vs R lines, respectively, p < 0.05). Bacteria belonging to Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Fusobacteria and Bacteroidetes were identified in sperm microbiota. At genus level, the bacterial community composition in the sperm microbiota was influenced by host genetics. A total of 35, 16, 34, and 51 genera were accurately detected in the A, V, LP, and R lines, respectively. Moreover, Enhydrobacter, Ferruginibacter, Myroides Paracoccus, Rheinheimera, Tepidiphilus, Tetradesmus obliquus and Thauera genera were present only in the inbred lines selected for litter size. Moreover, the discriminant analysis revealed Lysinibacillus and Flavobacterium genera as potential biomarkers for fertility. Thus, these two genera may play a key role in fertility. Our results demonstrated the existence of a rabbit inbred line-specific variation in bacterial occurrence in sperm microbiota. Moreover, fertility differentials among inbred lines that were not predicted by routine semen analysis could be partly explained by the symbiotic state of the semen microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Marco-Jiménez
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology, Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, 46022, Spain
| | - Sara Borrás
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology, Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, 46022, Spain
| | - Ximo Garcia-Dominguez
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology, Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, 46022, Spain
| | - Giuseppe D'Auria
- Servicio de Secuenciación y Bioinformática, Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana (FISABIO-Salud Pública), Valencia, Spain
| | - Jose Salvador Vicente
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology, Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, 46022, Spain
| | - Clara Marin
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Avenida Seminario S/n, 46113, Moncada, Spain.
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Does the Act of Copulation per se, without Considering Seminal Deposition, Change the Expression of Genes in the Porcine Female Genital Tract? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155477. [PMID: 32751869 PMCID: PMC7432858 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Semen—through its specific sperm and seminal plasma (SP) constituents—induces changes of gene expression in the internal genital tract of pigs, particularly in the functional sperm reservoir at the utero-tubal junction (UTJ). Although seminal effects are similarly elicited by artificial insemination (AI), major changes in gene expression are registered after natural mating, a fact suggesting the act of copulation induces per se changes in genes that AI does not affect. The present study explored which pathways were solely influenced by copulation, affecting the differential expression of genes (DEGs) of the pre/peri-ovulatory genital tract (cervix, distal uterus, proximal uterus and UTJ) of estrus sows, 24 h after various procedures were performed to compare natural mating with AI of semen (control 1), sperm-free SP harvested from the sperm-peak fraction (control 2), sperm-free SP harvested from the whole ejaculate (control 3) or saline-extender BTS (control 4), using a microarray chip (GeneChip® porcine gene 1.0 st array). Genes related to neuroendocrine responses (ADRA1, ADRA2, GABRB2, CACNB2), smooth muscle contractility (WNT7A), angiogenesis and vascular remodeling (poFUT1, NTN4) were, among others, overrepresented with distal and proximal uterine segments exhibiting the highest number of DEGs. The findings provide novel evidence that relevant transcriptomic changes in the porcine female reproductive tract occur in direct response to the specific act of copulation, being semen-independent.
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The Expression of Cold-Inducible RNA-Binding Protein mRNA in Sow Genital Tract Is Modulated by Natural Mating, But Not by Seminal Plasma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155333. [PMID: 32727091 PMCID: PMC7432381 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), some of them induced by transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels, are crucial regulators of RNA function that can contribute to reproductive pathogenesis, including inflammation and immune dysfunction. This study aimed to reveal the influence of spermatozoa, seminal plasma, or natural mating on mRNA expression of RBPs and TRP ion channels in different segments of the internal genital tract of oestrous, preovulatory sows. Particularly, we focused on mRNA expression changes of the cold-inducible proteins (CIPs) and related TRP channels. Pre-ovulatory sows were naturally mated (NM) or cervically infused with semen (Semen-AI) or sperm-free seminal plasma either from the entire ejaculate (SP-TOTAL) or the sperm-rich fraction (SP-AI). Samples (cervix to infundibulum) were collected by laparotomy under general anaesthesia for transcriptomic analysis (GeneChip® Porcine Gene 1.0 ST Array) 24 h after treatments. The NM treatment induced most of the mRNA expression changes, compared to Semen-AI, SP-AI, and SP-TOTAL treatments including unique significative changes in CIRBP, RBM11, RBM15B, RBMS1, TRPC1, TRPC4, TRPC7, and TRPM8. The findings on the differential mRNA expression on RBPs and TRP ion channels, especially to CIPs and related TRP ion channels, suggest that spermatozoa and seminal plasma differentially modulated both protein families during the preovulatory phase, probably related to a still unknown early signalling mechanism in the sow reproductive tract.
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Ruiz-Conca M, Gardela J, Martínez CA, Wright D, López-Bejar M, Rodríguez-Martínez H, Álvarez-Rodríguez M. Natural Mating Differentially Triggers Expression of Glucocorticoid Receptor (NR3C1)-Related Genes in the Preovulatory Porcine Female Reproductive Tract. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124437. [PMID: 32580389 PMCID: PMC7352215 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mating initiates dynamic modifications of gene transcription in the female reproductive tract, preparing the female for fertilization and pregnancy. Glucocorticoid signaling is essential for the homeostasis of mammalian physiological functions. This complex glucocorticoid regulation is mediated through the glucocorticoid receptor, also known as nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 1 (NR3C1/GR) and related genes, like 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (HSD11Bs) and the FK506-binding immunophilins, FKBP5 and FKBP4. This study tested the transcriptome changes in NR3C1/GR regulation in response to natural mating and/or cervical deposition of the sperm-peak ejaculate fraction collected using the gloved-hand method (semen or only its seminal plasma), in the preovulatory pig reproductive tract (cervix to infundibulum, 24 h after mating/insemination/infusion treatments). Porcine cDNA microarrays revealed 22 NR3C1-related transcripts, and changes in gene expression were triggered by all treatments, with natural mating showing the largest differences, including NR3C1, FKBP5, FKBP4, hydroxysteroid 11-beta dehydrogenase 1 and 2 (HSD11B1, HSD11B2), and the signal transducer and activator of transcription 5A (STAT5A). Our data suggest that natural mating induces expression changes that might promote a reduction of the cortisol action in the oviductal sperm reservoir. Together with the STAT-mediated downregulation of cytokine immune actions, this reduction may prevent harmful effects by promoting tolerance towards the spermatozoa stored in the oviduct and perhaps elicit spermatozoa activation and detachment after ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateo Ruiz-Conca
- Department Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/OG, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.R.-C.); (J.G.); (C.A.M.); (H.R.-M.)
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain;
| | - Jaume Gardela
- Department Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/OG, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.R.-C.); (J.G.); (C.A.M.); (H.R.-M.)
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain;
| | - Cristina Alicia Martínez
- Department Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/OG, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.R.-C.); (J.G.); (C.A.M.); (H.R.-M.)
| | - Dominic Wright
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering; Linköping University, 58183 Linköping, Sweden;
| | - Manel López-Bejar
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain;
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
| | - Heriberto Rodríguez-Martínez
- Department Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/OG, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.R.-C.); (J.G.); (C.A.M.); (H.R.-M.)
| | - Manuel Álvarez-Rodríguez
- Department Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/OG, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.R.-C.); (J.G.); (C.A.M.); (H.R.-M.)
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-(0)72942-7883
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