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Cardenas-Padilla AJ, Jimenez-Trejo F, Cerbon M, Chavez-Garcia A, Cruz-Cano NB, Martinez-Torres M, Alcantar-Rodriguez A, Medrano A. Sperm melatonin receptors, seminal plasma melatonin and semen freezability in goats. Theriogenology 2024; 225:98-106. [PMID: 38801791 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.05.034] [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: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Goat bucks are seasonal breeders that show variation in sperm quality, endogenous melatonin (MLT), and presumably in the expression of MLT receptors on the sperm throughout the year, which may modify sperm freezability. The aim of this study was to determine whether sperm freezability is associated with (i) endogenous melatonin levels in seminal plasma and (ii) the expression of sperm plasma membrane melatonin receptors (MT1, MT2). To evaluate this, spermatozoa from seven Saanen goat bucks were cryopreserved throughout the year in Mexico using a standard freezing protocol. Seminal plasma MLT concentrations were determined by ELISA and the expression and localization of MT1 and MT2 were detected by immunocytochemistry and confirmed by western blotting. The recovery rate of progressive motility after thawing was higher in spring than autumn and winter; in contrast, the F pattern (CTC assay) was higher in winter than in the other seasons. A proportional increase in the AR pattern (CTC assay) was smaller in winter than in the other seasons and the proportion of sperm showing high plasma membrane fluidity was higher in spring than in summer and autumn. The seminal plasma MLT concentrations showed no significant interseasonal differences. The MT1 receptor was immunolocalised at the apical region of the sperm head, while MT2 was mainly localised in the neck. The relative expression of MLT receptors showed significant differences between summer and winter for all bands, except at 75 kDa of MT2. In conclusion, there was an association between the relative expression of MT1 and MT2 receptors throughout the year and sperm freezability in goat bucks in México. Post-thaw sperm quality is enhanced in semen samples collected during breeding season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto J Cardenas-Padilla
- Laboratorio de Reproducción Animal, Unidad de Investigación Multidisciplinaria, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuautitlán Izcalli, 54714, Estado de México, Mexico.
| | | | - Marco Cerbon
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Araceli Chavez-Garcia
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Norma B Cruz-Cano
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla, 54090, Estado de México, Mexico.
| | - Martin Martinez-Torres
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla, 54090, Estado de México, Mexico.
| | - Alicia Alcantar-Rodriguez
- Laboratorio de Reproducción Animal, Unidad de Investigación Multidisciplinaria, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuautitlán Izcalli, 54714, Estado de México, Mexico.
| | - Alfredo Medrano
- Laboratorio de Reproducción Animal, Unidad de Investigación Multidisciplinaria, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuautitlán Izcalli, 54714, Estado de México, Mexico.
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2
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Abuzahra M, Wijayanti D, Effendi MH, Mustofa I, Lamid M. Association of melatonin receptor 1 A with litter size in sheep: A review. F1000Res 2024; 12:900. [PMID: 38322310 PMCID: PMC10844802 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.134890.2] [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] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Sheep are a valuable livestock species worldwide, providing meat, milk, and various dairy products. This article aims to review the latest literature on the melatonin receptor 1A (MTNR1A) gene as a potential candidate gene associated with reproductive traits, particularly the litter size trait in sheep, by searching various databases for available literature. Studies have shown that different parts of the MTNR1A gene play various roles in sheep. By identifying marker genes associated with reproductive traits in MTNR1A polymorphisms linked to the litter size trait, breeders can achieve a faster selection response in sheep breeding by recognizing the genomic region where these genes are located and understanding their physiological functions. Therefore, highlighting the literature on these functions and their association with reproductive traits may contribute to improving the genetic makeup during sheep breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dwi Wijayanti
- Department of Animal Science, Perjuangan University of Tasikmalaya, Tasikmalaya, West Java, 46115, Indonesia
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Mustofa Helmi Effendi
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Imam Mustofa
- Department of Veterinary Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Mirni Lamid
- Department of Animal Husbandry, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
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3
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Roshan NJ, Garoussi MT, Akbarinejad V. Evaluation of the effect of melatonin implantation in rams and eCG dose in ewes synchronized by a CIDR-eCG protocol on reproductive performance of Lacaune sheep breed during non-breeding season. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 259:107365. [PMID: 37980808 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable production of milk is favorable in dairy sheep industry, which necessitates year-round reproduction of rams and ewes even during non-breeding season. Hence, protocols facilitating reproduction of rams and ewes during non-breeding season are of importance for this purpose. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the effect of melatonin implantation in rams and administration of 400 IU eCG (E400) versus 300 IU eCG (E300) in ewes on reproductive performance of Lacaune sheep breed during non-breeding season. Rams were allocated to two groups including untreated (control, CON; n = 36) and melatonin-treated (MEL; n = 37). A subset of rams from CON (n = 7) and MEL (n = 7) groups were used for assessment of scrotal circumference, kinematic and functional characteristics of sperm, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of semen and circulating testosterone on Days 0 (the beginning of study) and 60 (60 days after melatonin implantation). Further, the study had a 2 × 2 factorial design with four experimental groups including 1) ewes treated with E300 and introduced to CON rams (E300CON; n = 17 rams and 172 ewes), 2) ewes treated with E300 and introduced to MEL rams (E300MEL; n = 18 rams and 177 ewes), 3) ewes treated with E400 and introduced to CON rams (E400CON; n = 19 rams and 192 ewes), and ewes treated with E400 and introduced to MEL rams (E400MEL; n = 19 rams and 190 ewes). Melatonin implantation improved scrotal circumference, concentration, progressive motility, velocity, mitochondrial membrane potential and viability of sperm, TAC of semen, concentration of testosterone and fertility of rams (P < 0.05). Besides, E400 compared with E300 enhanced synchronization of estrus and fertility in ewes (P < 0.05). In conclusion, melatonin implantation promoted reproductive performance in Lacaune rams, and increase in dose of eCG improved reproductive performance in Lacaune ewes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navid Jahan Roshan
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Vahid Akbarinejad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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4
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Lavrentiadou SN, Sapanidou V, Tzekaki EE, Margaritis I, Tsantarliotou MP. Melatonin Protects Bovine Spermatozoa by Reinforcing Their Antioxidant Defenses. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3219. [PMID: 37893943 PMCID: PMC10603642 DOI: 10.3390/ani13203219] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryopreserved semen is widely used in assisted reproductive techniques. Post-thawing spermatozoa endure oxidative stress due to the high levels of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, which are produced during the freezing/thawing process, and the depletion of antioxidants. To counteract this depletion, supplementation of sperm preparation medium with antioxidants has been widely applied. Melatonin is a hormone with diverse biological roles and a potent antioxidant, with an ameliorative effect on spermatozoa. In the present study, we assessed the effect of melatonin on thawed bovine spermatozoa during their handling. Cryopreserved bovine spermatozoa were thawed and incubated for 60 min in the presence or absence of 100 μΜ melatonin. Also, the effect of melatonin was assessed on spermatozoa further challenged by the addition of 100 μΜ hydrogen peroxide. Spermatozoa were evaluated in terms of kinematic parameters (CASA), viability (trypan blue staining) and antioxidant capacity (glutathione and NBT assay, determination of iNOS levels by Western blot analysis). In the presence of melatonin, spermatozoa presented better kinematic parameters, as the percentage of motile and rapid spermatozoa was higher in the melatonin group. They also presented higher viability and antioxidant status, as determined by the increased cellular glutathione levels and the decreased iNOS protein levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia N. Lavrentiadou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Animal Structure and Function, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (V.S.); (I.M.); (M.P.T.)
| | - Vasiliki Sapanidou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Animal Structure and Function, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (V.S.); (I.M.); (M.P.T.)
| | - Elena E. Tzekaki
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Ioannis Margaritis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Animal Structure and Function, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (V.S.); (I.M.); (M.P.T.)
| | - Maria P. Tsantarliotou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Animal Structure and Function, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (V.S.); (I.M.); (M.P.T.)
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5
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Miguel-Jiménez S, Borao S, Portolés-Bayod V, Casao A, Pérez-Pe R. In vitro approach points to a chemotactic effect of melatonin on ram spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2023; 198:36-46. [PMID: 36542876 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.12.022] [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: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Sperm orientation mechanisms, such as chemotaxis, are essential for the sperm to reach the oocyte and fertilize it. Melatonin is secreted by the cumulus cells and is also present in the follicular fluid in mammals. The presence of membrane receptors for melatonin in ram spermatozoa, and its proven involvement in the sperm functionality, may suggest a possible role in the guided movement towards the oocyte. Hence, the objective of the present work is to study the in vitro potential chemotactic action of melatonin on ram spermatozoa, analysing the influence of the season (breeding and non-breeding) and the sperm capacitation state. The first experimental approach consisted in the inclusion of melatonin in the upper layer of a swim-up selection method. During the non-breeding season, the presence of melatonin at 100 pM and 1 μM concentrations significantly increased the cell recovery rate, and induced changes in the sperm location of the MT2 melatonin receptor, compared with the standard swim-up. Moreover, the selected sperm population with 100 pM melatonin presented a higher percentage of capacitated spermatozoa. The greater recovery rate obtained with melatonin could be due to the stimulation of sperm movement in random directions, i.e., a chemokinetic effect, or due to a guided movement (chemotaxis) towards the gradient of the melatonin. To elucidate this issue, together with the study of the influence of the sperm capacitation status, we performed a second experimental approach which consisted in the use of chemotaxis chambers and an open-source software (Open-CASA) that analyses the sperm trajectories towards the hormone gradient and calculates a chemotaxis index (SL index). There was a significant difference between the SL index in the presence of 1 μM melatonin and the control without hormone. This effect was only observed in capacitated spermatozoa with cAMP-elevating agents (Cap-CK samples) obtained during the non-breeding season. These results would point to an in vitro chemotactic effect of melatonin on ram spermatozoa, although chemokinesis cannot be ruled out. Nonetheless, the inclusion of this hormone in the swim-up procedure could enhance the sperm recovery rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Miguel-Jiménez
- Grupo BIOFITER-Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular - Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sonia Borao
- Grupo BIOFITER-Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular - Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Virginia Portolés-Bayod
- Grupo BIOFITER-Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular - Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Adriana Casao
- Grupo BIOFITER-Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular - Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Rosaura Pérez-Pe
- Grupo BIOFITER-Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular - Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain.
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6
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Fernández-Alegre E, Lacalle E, Soriano-Úbeda C, González-Montaña JR, Domínguez JC, Casao A, Martínez-Pastor F. Bos taurus and Cervus elaphus as Non-Seasonal/Seasonal Models for the Role of Melatonin Receptors in the Spermatozoon. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116284. [PMID: 35682961 PMCID: PMC9181011 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is crucial in reproduction due its antioxidant, hormonal, and paracrine action. Melatonin membrane receptors (MT1/MT2) have been confirmed on spermatozoa from several species, but functionality studies are scarce. To clarify their role in ruminants as reproductive models, bull (Bos taurus, non-seasonal) and red deer (Cervus elaphus, highly seasonal) spermatozoa were analyzed after 4 h of incubation (38 °C, capacitating media) in 10 nM melatonin, MT1/MT2 agonists (phenylmelatonin and 8M-PDOT), and antagonists (luzindole and 4P-PDOT). Motility and functionality (flow cytometry: viability, intracellular calcium, capacitation status, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and acrosomal and mitochondrial status) were assessed. In bull, MT1 was related to sperm viability preservation, whereas MT2 could modulate cell functionality to prevent excess ROS produced by the mitochondria; this action could have a role in modulating sperm capacitation. Deer spermatozoa showed resistance to melatonin and receptor activation, possibly because the samples were of epididymal origin and collected at the breeding season's peak, with high circulating melatonin. However, receptors could be involved in mitochondrial protection. Therefore, melatonin receptors are functional in the spermatozoa from bull and deer, with different activities. These species offer models differing from traditional laboratory experimental animals on the role of melatonin in sperm biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estela Fernández-Alegre
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (E.L.); (C.S.-Ú.); (J.R.G.-M.); (J.C.D.)
- Bianor Biotech SL, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - Estíbaliz Lacalle
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (E.L.); (C.S.-Ú.); (J.R.G.-M.); (J.C.D.)
- Bianor Biotech SL, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - Cristina Soriano-Úbeda
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (E.L.); (C.S.-Ú.); (J.R.G.-M.); (J.C.D.)
- Department of Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - José Ramiro González-Montaña
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (E.L.); (C.S.-Ú.); (J.R.G.-M.); (J.C.D.)
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy (Animal Medicine and Surgery), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Domínguez
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (E.L.); (C.S.-Ú.); (J.R.G.-M.); (J.C.D.)
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy (Animal Medicine and Surgery), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - Adriana Casao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Institute of Environmental Sciences of Aragón, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Felipe Martínez-Pastor
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (E.L.); (C.S.-Ú.); (J.R.G.-M.); (J.C.D.)
- Department of Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-987-291-491
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7
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Factors influencing seminal plasma composition and its relevance to succeed sperm technology in sheep: an updated review. Small Rumin Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2022.106759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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8
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El-Shalofy A, Hedia M, Kastelic J. Melatonin improves testicular haemodynamics, echotexture and testosterone production in Ossimi rams during the breeding season. Reprod Domest Anim 2021; 56:1456-1463. [PMID: 34459033 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14010] [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: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to determine effects of a single parenteral dose of melatonin on testicular blood flow indices, testicular echogenicity and plasma testosterone concentrations in rams during the physiological breeding season. We hypothesized that melatonin enhances testicular blood flow, echogenicity and plasma testosterone concentrations during the breeding season in rams. During the breeding season, 12 sexually mature Ossimi rams were randomly allocated to either a melatonin group (n = 8) that received 18 mg of melatonin in 1 ml of corn oil (injected SC) or a control group (n = 4) that received 1 ml corn oil only. Blood collection and ultrasonographic assessment of the testes and supratesticular arteries were conducted immediately before treatment (W0) and once weekly for 6 weeks after melatonin injection (W1-W6). Mean plasma testosterone concentrations were greater (p < .05; at least 1 ng/ml) in the melatonin-treated group compared to the control group from W4 to W6 after treatment. A decrease (p < .05) in both resistive index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) began 1 week after melatonin injection (W1) and persisted until the end of the experiment, with mean RI and PI values in the melatonin group lower (p < .05) than those in the control group on W3 and W4. Furthermore, plasma testosterone concentrations in melatonin-treated rams were inversely correlated to both RI and PI (r = -.7 and -.6, respectively, p < .01). Testicular echogenicity decreased (p < .05) 1 week after melatonin injection (W1) and remained lower (p < .05) in the melatonin-treated group compared to the control group until the end of the study (W6). In conclusion, melatonin administration significantly altered testicular blood flow and echogenicity and increased plasma testosterone concentrations in Ossimi rams during the breeding season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amr El-Shalofy
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Hedia
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - John Kastelic
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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9
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Sperm Behavior and Response to Melatonin under Capacitating Conditions in Three Sheep Breeds Subject to the Equatorial Photoperiod. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061828. [PMID: 34207349 PMCID: PMC8235450 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In temperate regions, sheep demonstrate seasonal reproduction regulated by changes in photoperiod. This regulation is mediated by nocturnal melatonin secretion. However, in equatorial regions, with no photoperiodic changes, sheep tend to breed in all seasons of the year. Despite this, changes in seminal composition or sperm quality have been reported throughout the year. We demonstrated that melatonin concentration in seminal plasma varies between rainy and dry seasons in three Colombian breeds (Colombian Creole, Romney Marsh, and Hampshire). As melatonin can exert direct effects on ram spermatozoa, in this study we hypothesized that melatonin could modulate sperm capacitation in equatorial-located breeds as we had previously reported in seasonal breeds from temperate regions. First, we assayed two media for in vitro capacitation and found that the increment in capacitated and acrosome-reacted sperm was higher in the so-called “cocktail medium” for the three breeds and in rainy and dry seasons. The addition of melatonin to the cocktail medium partially prevented the increase in capacitated spermatozoa from all breeds and during all seasons. This study could help in understanding how melatonin affects ram reproduction in the equatorial photoperiod. Abstract In this study, we demonstrated that, in seasonal Mediterranean ovine breeds, supplementing the TALP medium with cAMP-elevating agents (the cocktail medium) is effective for achieving ram sperm capacitation, and that melatonin is able to regulate this phenomenon. We investigated the behavior under capacitating conditions using the TALP and cocktail mediums, and the response to melatonin, of spermatozoa from three sheep breeds (Colombian Creole, Romney Marsh, and Hampshire) subject to the equatorial photoperiod, during the dry and the rainy seasons. The cocktail medium was able to induce sperm capacitation, assayed by chlortetracycline staining and phosphotyrosine levels, to a greater extent than TALP, without a higher loss of viability (membrane integrity and viable spermatozoa without phosphatidylserine (PS) translocation). The addition of melatonin at 100 pM or 1 µM in the cocktail medium partially prevented the decrease in viability without PS translocation and the increase in capacitated spermatozoa from all breeds, with no significant effect on phosphotyrosine levels. Differences between breeds and seasons were evidenced. This study shows that melatonin is able to exert direct effects on spermatozoa in ovine breeds under equatorial photoperiod conditions, as it does in seasonal breeds located in temperate regions.
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10
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Pool KR, Rickard JP, de Graaf SP. Melatonin improves the motility and DNA integrity of frozen-thawed ram spermatozoa likely via suppression of mitochondrial superoxide production. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2021; 74:106516. [PMID: 32712540 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The ability of the neurohormone melatonin to ameliorate cryopreservation-induced damage to spermatozoa has been demonstrated in several domestic species. However, it is unclear how these protective effects are conferred, with improvements in sperm quality ambiguously attributed to the general antioxidant activity of melatonin. To further investigate this phenomenon, ram spermatozoa were diluted in cryomedia with and without melatonin (0 [control], 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 μM) and assessed for motility, viability, DNA integrity, mitochondrial superoxide production, lipid peroxidation, and intracellular reactive oxygen species before freezing and after thawing (0, 3, and 6 h post-thaw). Before freezing, supplementation with melatonin at any concentration had no effect on any measure of sperm quality. However, post-thaw, spermatozoa frozen in the presence of any level of melatonin reduced mitochondrial superoxide production of spermatozoa (P < 0.001), decreased the level of sperm DNA fragmentation (P < 0.001), and increased the percentage of motile spermatozoa (P = 0.035). Melatonin supplementation did not influence the relative levels of lipid peroxidation in the sperm membrane, the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species, or sperm membrane lipid disorder (P > 0.05). There was no difference in the percentage of viable spermatozoa between treatment groups pre- or post-freeze (P > 0.05). These results suggest that, in the ram, melatonin does not protect the quality of cryopreserved spermatozoa through a nondiscerning scavenging of reactive oxygen species as previously suggested. Rather, melatonin appears to specifically reduce mitochondrial superoxide production, altering sperm functionality, as opposed to merely increasing the percentage of live sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Pool
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia.
| | - J P Rickard
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - S P de Graaf
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
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11
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The Melatonin Receptor Agonist Ramelteon Induces Cardioprotection that Requires MT2 Receptor Activation and Release of Reactive Oxygen Species. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2020; 34:303-310. [PMID: 32236860 PMCID: PMC7242242 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-020-06972-4] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The melatonin receptor (MT) agonist ramelteon has a higher affinity to MT1 than for MT2 receptors and induces cardioprotection by involvement of mitochondrial potassium channels. Activation of mitochondrial potassium channels leads to release of free radicals. We investigated whether (1) ramelteon-induced cardioprotection is MT2 receptor specific and (2) if free radicals are involved in ramelteon-induced cardioprotection. Methods Hearts of male Wistar rats were randomized, placed on a Langendorff system, and perfused with Krebs-Henseleit buffer at a constant pressure of 80 mmHg. All hearts were subjected to 33 min of global ischemia and 60 min of reperfusion. Before ischemia hearts were perfused with ramelteon (Ram) with or without the MT2 receptor inhibitor 4-phenyl-2-propionamidotetralin (4P-PDOT+Ram, 4P-PDOT). In subsequent experiments, ramelteon was administered together with the radical oxygen species (ROS) scavenger N-2-mercaptopropionylglycine (MPG+Ram). To determine whether the blockade of ramelteon-induced cardioprotection can be restored, we combined ramelteon and MPG with mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) inhibitor cyclosporine A (CsA) at different time points. Infarct size was determined by triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. Results Ramelteon-induced infarct size reduction was completely blocked by 4P-PDOT and MPG. Ramelteon and MPG combined with CsA before ischemia were not cardioprotective but CsA at the onset of reperfusion could restore infarct size reduction. Conclusions This study shows for the first time that despite the higher affinity to MT1 receptors, (1) ramelteon-induced cardioprotection involves MT2 receptors, (2) cardioprotection requires ROS release, and (3) inhibition of the mPTP can restore infarct size reduction.
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Treatment of rams with melatonin implants in the non-breeding season improves post-thaw sperm progressive motility and DNA integrity. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 221:106579. [PMID: 32919308 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106579] [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: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In the Merino ram, it is unclear whether cryopreserved sperm function and fertility is compromised when collected during the non-breeding season, when Merino ewes are seasonally anestrus. It was therefore investigated whether treatment with melatonin could improve sperm function or fertility when semen was collected during the period Merino ewes were seasonally anestrus. There were 16 Merino rams treated or not treated with melatonin implants during the non-breeding season of ewes (September). Ejaculates were collected before melatonin treatment (Week 0), during the period of melatonin release (Week 7) and subsequent breeding season (Week 23). In vitro sperm function was assessed before freezing, and at 0- and 3 -hs post-thaw. Fertility was determined through intrauterine insemination of ewes (n = 966) with frozen-thawed samples, during the breeding season. Compared to Week 0 values, spermatozoa from melatonin-treated rams had greater progressive motility at Week 7 (P = 0.019) and less DNA fragmentation (P = 0.003) at Weeks 7 and 23, whilst spermatozoa from non-treated rams were unchanged during these time-periods. There were no other treatment effects on sperm function or fertility (P > 0.05). In ejaculates collected during Week 23, there were no effects of treatment either before freezing or post-thawing. Sperm from ejaculates collected at Week 23, however, had lesser pre-freezing/post-thawing total motility and resulted in lower pregnancy rates (P < 0.05). It is concluded there are no effects of season on sperm quality or fertility of Merino rams and that melatonin treatment subtly improves quality of spermatozoa following cryopreservation.
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Pool KR, Rickard JP, Pini T, de Graaf SP. Exogenous melatonin advances the ram breeding season and increases testicular function. Sci Rep 2020; 10:9711. [PMID: 32546776 PMCID: PMC7297710 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-66594-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Governed by melatonin, ovine reproductive seasonality limits production outcomes due to periods of decreased reproductive efficiency. Though it is established that slow-release melatonin implants improve out of season reproductive performance in the ewe, the comprehensive effects of exogenous melatonin in the ram remain inconclusive. This study aimed to ultimately clarify the ability of exogenous melatonin to alter ram reproductive function during the non-breeding season and the subsequent breeding season. Hence, we investigated the effect of exogenous melatonin on reproductive endocrinology, semen quality and production, testicular size and libido in Merino and Poll Dorset rams (n = 31, using a subset of 18 rams for analysis of semen production and quality). Melatonin treatment resulted in elevation of melatonin in seminal plasma from 1-8 weeks post-implantation and in blood plasma at 6 weeks post-implantation. The blood plasma testosterone of implanted rams was greater than controls at both 6 weeks post-implantation and during the following breeding season. Implanted rams exhibited increased testicular size and number of sperm per ejaculate from 3-12 weeks post-implantation but did not demonstrate any change in sperm motility or morphology in response to treatment. Compared to their control counterparts, melatonin-treated Poll Dorset rams exhibited a lower percentage of sperm DNA fragmentation during several weeks of the non-breeding season. Though melatonin increased the likelihood of ejaculate collection in Poll Dorset rams (P < 0.05), libido was otherwise unaffected by treatment. Melatonin did not alter seminal plasma concentrations of inhibin A or Anti-Mullerian hormone, however, for the first time in the ram we have shown Anti-Mullerian hormone to be positively correlated with the number of sperm per ejaculate and sperm motility (r = 0.464 and 0.3242 respectively, P < 0.001), and inhibin A to be correlated to the number of sperm per ejaculate (r = 0.1786, P = 0.0135). These results indicate that melatonin is able to both systemically upregulate reproduction and act directly upon testicular function in the ram.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Pool
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - J P Rickard
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - T Pini
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - S P de Graaf
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
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Melatonin membrane receptors MT 1 and MT 2 are expressed in ram spermatozoa from non-seasonal breeds. Trop Anim Health Prod 2020; 52:2549-2557. [PMID: 32445158 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-020-02289-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, many melatonin biological functions are mediated through its interaction with the membrane receptors MT1 and MT2. We have previously reported their presence in ram spermatozoa from males located in temperate climates, but there is no information on their presence in spermatozoa from rams in areas with an equatorial photoperiod (12L:12D). Thus, we have investigated the existence and cellular distribution of melatonin receptors in spermatozoa from three sheep breeds in Colombia (Colombian Creole, Hampshire, and Romney Marsh) during dry and rainy seasons, using indirect immunofluorescence and western blot. Our results indicated the presence of melatonin receptors in spermatozoa from these rams, and that their distribution differs from that previously found in spermatozoa from rams in temperate climates. Moreover, two new immunotypes of MT2 were identified: type N, with staining only in the neck, and type E with a band of immunofluorescence in the upper part of the post-acrosome and the apical edge. Likewise, differences between breeds and climate seasons were detected for both receptors. However, densitometry analysis of western blot bands only revealed differences between seasons in the Creole rams for MT1 and the Romney Marsh rams for MT2, whereas differences between breeds were only detected for MT2. It could be inferred that melatonin receptors in rams subjected to an equatorial photoperiod might be more closely related to sperm quality than seasonal control. Therefore, the presence of these receptors suggests that melatonin could be a useful tool to increase the fertility of rams located in tropical or equatorial climates.
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15
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Fernández-Alegre E, Álvarez-Fernández I, Domínguez JC, Casao A, Martínez-Pastor F. Melatonin Non-Linearly Modulates Bull Spermatozoa Motility and Physiology in Capacitating and Non-Capacitating Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082701. [PMID: 32295040 PMCID: PMC7215461 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Bull spermatozoa physiology may be modulated by melatonin. We washed ejaculated spermatozoa free of melatonin and incubated them (4 h, 38 °C) with 0-pM, 1-pM, 100-pM, 10-nM and 1-µM melatonin in TALP-HEPES (non-capacitating) and TALP-HEPES-heparin (capacitating). This range of concentrations encompassed the effects mediated by melatonin receptors (pM), intracellular targets (nM–µM) or antioxidant activity (µM). Treatment effects were assessed as motility changes by computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) of motility and physiological changes by flow cytometry. Melatonin effects were more evident in capacitating conditions, with 100 pM reducing motility and velocity (VCL) while increasing a “slow” subpopulation. All concentrations decreased apoptotic spermatozoa and stimulated mitochondrial activity in viable spermatozoa, with 100 pM–1 µM increasing acrosomal damage, 10 nM–1 µM increasing intracellular calcium and 1 pM reducing the response to a calcium-ionophore challenge. In non-capacitating media, 1 µM increased hyperactivation-related variables and decreased apoptotic spermatozoa; 100 pM–1 µM increased membrane disorders (related to capacitation); all concentrations decreased mitochondrial ROS production. Melatonin concentrations had a modal effect on bull spermatozoa, suggesting a capacitation-modulating role and protective effect at physiological concentrations (pM). Some effects may be of practical use, considering artificial reproductive techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estela Fernández-Alegre
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 León, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (I.Á.-F.); (J.C.D.)
| | - Indira Álvarez-Fernández
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 León, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (I.Á.-F.); (J.C.D.)
| | - Juan Carlos Domínguez
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 León, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (I.Á.-F.); (J.C.D.)
- Department of Animal Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy (Animal Medicine and Surgery), University of León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Adriana Casao
- BIOFITER, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Institute of Environmental Sciences of Aragón, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Felipe Martínez-Pastor
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 León, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (I.Á.-F.); (J.C.D.)
- Department of Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), University of León, 24071 León, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-987-291-491
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Žaja IŽ, Berta V, Valpotić H, Samardžija M, Milinković-Tur S, Vilić M, Šuran J, Hlede JP, Đuričić D, Špoljarić B, Špoljarić D, Vince S. The influence of exogenous melatonin on antioxidative status in seminal plasma and spermatozoa in French Alpine bucks during the nonbreeding season. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2020; 71:106400. [PMID: 31809949 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2019.106400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Research data regarding exogenous melatonin effects on buck semen antioxidative status during the breeding and nonbreeding seasons are scarce or missing. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of melatonin implants on the activity and ratios of antioxidative enzymes and on malondialdehyde concentrations in the seminal plasma and spermatozoa of French Alpine bucks during the 3 mo of the nonbreeding season. Two groups of randomly assigned bucks were either treated with melatonin (n = 6) or served as controls (n = 6). Semen samples were collected weekly, seminal plasma was separated from spermatozoa, and activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione reductase (GR), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and the concentration of malondialdehyde were determined. The melatonin-treated bucks had significantly higher CAT/SOD and GSH-Px/SOD ratios, but a significantly lower GR/GSH-Px ratio in seminal plasma and spermatozoa during the different periods of the nonbreeding season. In conclusion, exogenous melatonin influenced the activities of all ratios and some single antioxidative enzymes tested in bucks' seminal plasma and spermatozoa. Here we provide the first evidence derived from an intervention, that is, melatonin treatment, which affects antioxidative enzymes ratios in the semen of bucks, and could thus be recommended as an indicator of oxidative stress severity and antioxidative status of semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Ž Žaja
- Department of Physiology and Radiobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - V Berta
- Veterinary Practice Varaždin, 42000 Varaždin, Croatia
| | - H Valpotić
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - M Samardžija
- Clinic for Reproduction and Obstetrics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - S Milinković-Tur
- Department of Physiology and Radiobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - M Vilić
- Department of Physiology and Radiobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - J Šuran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - J P Hlede
- Department of Physiology and Radiobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - D Đuričić
- Veterinary Practice Đurđevac, Malinov trg 7, 48350 Đurđevac, Croatia
| | - B Špoljarić
- Clinic for Reproduction and Obstetrics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - D Špoljarić
- Department of Veterinary Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - S Vince
- Clinic for Reproduction and Obstetrics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Gimeno-Martos S, Casao A, Yeste M, Cebrián-Pérez JA, Muiño-Blanco T, Pérez-Pé R. Melatonin reduces cAMP-stimulated capacitation of ram spermatozoa. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:420-431. [PMID: 30209004 DOI: 10.1071/rd18087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of melatonin receptors on the surface of ram spermatozoa has led to speculation about melatonin having a role in sperm functionality. The aim of this study was to elucidate the mechanism through which melatonin regulates ram sperm capacitation induced by a cocktail containing cAMP-elevating agents. Cocktail samples capacitated in the presence of 1µM melatonin showed lower percentages of capacitated spermatozoa (chlortetracycline staining; P<0.001) together with a decrease in protein tyrosine phosphorylation (P<0.01) and lower levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cAMP (P<0.05) compared with cocktail samples without the hormone. Determination of kinematic parameters, together with principal component and cluster analyses, allowed us to define four sperm subpopulations (SP). After 3h of incubation with cAMP-elevating agents, the percentages of spermatozoa belonging to SP1 (high straightness) and SP4 (less-vigorous spermatozoa with non-linear motility) increased while SP2 and SP3 (rapid spermatozoa starting hyperactivation or already hyperactivated) decreased compared with the control sample. The presence of melatonin at 100 pM and 10nM restored these subpopulations to values closer to those found in the control sample. These results indicate that melatonin at micromolar concentrations modulates ram sperm capacitation induced by cAMP-elevating agents, reducing ROS and cAMP levels, whereas at lower concentrations melatonin modifies motile sperm subpopulations. These findings warrant further studies on the potential use of melatonin for controlling capacitation in artificial insemination procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Gimeno-Martos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Institute of Environmental Sciences of Aragón, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Adriana Casao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Institute of Environmental Sciences of Aragón, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - José A Cebrián-Pérez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Institute of Environmental Sciences of Aragón, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Teresa Muiño-Blanco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Institute of Environmental Sciences of Aragón, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Rosaura Pérez-Pé
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Institute of Environmental Sciences of Aragón, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
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18
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Dai GC, Meng Y, Zhang LK, Du YQ, Wen F, Feng TY, Hu JH. Effect of addition of melatonin on liquid storage of ram semen at 4°C. Andrologia 2019; 51:e13236. [PMID: 30693976 DOI: 10.1111/and.13236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Adding a certain amount of antioxidants to semen extender has been shown to improve semen quality. The aim of present study was to elucidate whether the supplementation of melatonin to the Tris-based extender (CTR) could enhance the quality of ram spermatozoa during storage at 4°C. Ram semen samples were collected and diluted with CTR extender containing different concentrations (0, 0.05 (M 0.05), 0.1 (M 0.1), 0.2 (M 0.2) or 0.4 (M 0.4) mM) of melatonin. Sperm routine indicators, mitochondrial activity, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were analysed in control and melatonin treatment groups. The higher per cent of motility, plasma membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity and T-AOC activity was observed in M 0.05, M 0.1 and M 0.2 groups compared to control group at 5 days of storage (p < 0.05), while lower percentage of MDA content was observed among these groups (p < 0.05). In addition, there were no significant differences in acrosome integrity among the control and M 0.05, M 0.1 and M 0.2 groups during the experiment. The above results show that the addition of 0.05, 0.1, 0.2 mM of melatonin is beneficial to the preservation of ram semen during liquid storage at 4°C mainly through antioxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui-Chao Dai
- Collage of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, China
| | - Yu Meng
- Collage of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, China
| | - Li-Kun Zhang
- Collage of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, China
| | - Ye-Qing Du
- Collage of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, China
| | - Fei Wen
- Collage of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, China
| | - Tian-Yu Feng
- Collage of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, China
| | - Jian-Hong Hu
- Collage of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, China
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Yu K, Deng SL, Sun TC, Li YY, Liu YX. Melatonin Regulates the Synthesis of Steroid Hormones on Male Reproduction: A Review. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23020447. [PMID: 29462985 PMCID: PMC6017169 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23020447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Revised: 02/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a ubiquitous molecule and exhibits different effects in long-day and short-day breeding animals. Testosterone, the main resource of androgens in the testis, is produced by Leydig cells but regulated mainly by cytokine secreted by Sertoli cells. Melatonin acts as a local modulator of the endocrine activity in Leydig cells. In Sertoli cells, melatonin influences cellular proliferation and energy metabolism and, consequently, can regulate steroidogenesis. These suggest melatonin as a key player in the regulation of steroidogenesis. However, the melatonin-induced regulation of steroid hormones may differ among species, and the literature data indicate that melatonin has important effects on steroidogenesis and male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Yu
- National Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Shou-Long Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Tie-Cheng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Yuan-Yuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Yi-Xun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
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González-Arto M, Aguilar D, Gaspar-Torrubia E, Gallego M, Carvajal-Serna M, Herrera-Marcos LV, Serrano-Blesa E, Hamilton TRDS, Pérez-Pé R, Muiño-Blanco T, Cebrián-Pérez JA, Casao A. Melatonin MT₁ and MT₂ Receptors in the Ram Reproductive Tract. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18030662. [PMID: 28335493 PMCID: PMC5372674 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18030662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [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: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Some melatonin functions in mammals are exerted through MT1 and MT2 receptors. However, there are no reports of their presence in the reproductive tract of the ram, a seasonal species. Thus, we have investigated their existence in the ram testis, epididymis, accessory glands and ductus deferens. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) revealed higher levels of m-RNA for both receptors in the testis, ampulla, seminal vesicles, and vas deferens, than in the other organs of the reproductive tract (p < 0.05). Western blot analyses showed protein bands compatible with the MT1 in the testis and cauda epididymis, and for the MT2 in the cauda epididymis and deferent duct. Immunohistochemistry analyses revealed the presence of MT1 receptors in spermatogonias, spermatocytes, and spermatids, and MT2 receptors in the newly-formed spermatozoa in the testis, whereas both receptors were located in the epithelial cells of the ampulla, seminal vesicles, and ductus deferens. Indirect immunofluorescence showed significant differences in the immunolocation of both receptors in spermatozoa during their transit in the epididymis. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that melatonin receptors are present in the ram reproductive tract. These results open the way for new studies on the molecular mechanism of melatonin and the biological significance of its receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta González-Arto
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - David Aguilar
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Elena Gaspar-Torrubia
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Margarita Gallego
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Melissa Carvajal-Serna
- Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y de Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, 11001 Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Luis V Herrera-Marcos
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Edith Serrano-Blesa
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Thais Rose Dos Santos Hamilton
- Dpto. de Reprodução Animal, da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinaria e Zootecnia, da Universidade de São Paulo, 05508 270 São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Rosaura Pérez-Pé
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Teresa Muiño-Blanco
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - José A Cebrián-Pérez
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Adriana Casao
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
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González-Arto M, Vicente-Carrillo A, Martínez-Pastor F, Fernández-Alegre E, Roca J, Miró J, Rigau T, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Pérez-Pé R, Muiño-Blanco T, Cebrián-Pérez JA, Casao A. Melatonin receptors MT1 and MT2 are expressed in spermatozoa from several seasonal and nonseasonal breeder species. Theriogenology 2016; 86:1958-68. [PMID: 27448693 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Revised: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin is a ubiquitous and multipurpose molecule, and one of its roles is to regulate reproduction in some seasonal mammals. Our group has previously reported the variation in the melatonin levels in ram seminal plasma along the year and identified MT1 and MT2 receptors in ram spermatozoa. The objective of this study was to elucidate whether the presence of melatonin receptors (MT1 and MT2) in the sperm plasma membrane, and melatonin in the seminal plasma is related to seasonal breeding. For this purpose, the presence of melatonin receptors and the levels of melatonin in seminal plasma have been examined in several species: donkey and stallion as long-day breeders; red deer as a wild, short-day, highly seasonal breeder (epididymal spermatozoa); bull as a conventional nonseasonal breeder; boar as a seasonal breeder under management techniques; and dog as possible a seasonal breeder not regulated by melatonin. We have detected measurable levels of melatonin in the seminal plasma of all ejaculated semen samples (from donkey, stallion, boar, bull, and dog). Also, and for the first time, we have demonstrated the presence of MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptors in the spermatozoa of all these species, regardless their type of reproduction or sperm source (ejaculated or epididymal), using indirect immunofluorescence techniques and Western blotting. Our findings suggest that melatonin and melatonin receptors may be universally distributed in the reproductive system of mammals and that the sperm melatonin receptors cells may not be necessarily related with seasonal reproduction. Furthermore, the presence of MT1 at the cytoplasmic droplet in immature ejaculated stallion spermatozoa found in one sample and epididymal red deer spermatozoa suggests that melatonin may be involved in specific functions during spermatogenesis and sperm maturation, like protecting spermatozoa from oxidative damage, this activity being mediated through these receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta González-Arto
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Jordi Roca
- Departamento de Medicina y Cirugía Animal, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Jordi Miró
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Teresa Rigau
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan E Rodríguez-Gil
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosaura Pérez-Pé
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Teresa Muiño-Blanco
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - José A Cebrián-Pérez
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Adriana Casao
- Grupo Biología y Fisiología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación de Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.
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