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Vaquer CC, Suhaiman L, Pavarotti MA, Arias RJ, Pacheco Guiñazú AB, De Blas GA, Belmonte SA. The pair ceramide 1-phosphate/ceramide kinase regulates intracellular calcium and progesterone-induced human sperm acrosomal exocytosis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1148831. [PMID: 37065849 PMCID: PMC10102357 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1148831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Before fertilization, spermatozoa must undergo calcium-regulated acrosome exocytosis in response to physiological stimuli such as progesterone and zona pellucida. Our laboratory has elucidated the signaling cascades accomplished by different sphingolipids during human sperm acrosomal exocytosis. Recently, we established that ceramide increases intracellular calcium by activating various channels and stimulating the acrosome reaction. However, whether ceramide induces exocytosis on its own, activation of the ceramide kinase/ceramide 1-phosphate (CERK/C1P) pathway or both is still an unsolved issue. Here, we demonstrate that C1P addition induces exocytosis in intact, capacitated human sperm. Real-time imaging in single-cell and calcium measurements in sperm population showed that C1P needs extracellular calcium to induce [Ca2+]i increase. The sphingolipid triggered the cation influx through voltage-operated calcium (VOC) and store-operated calcium (SOC) channels. However, it requires calcium efflux from internal stores through inositol 3-phosphate receptors (IP3R) and ryanodine receptors (RyR) to achieve calcium rise and the acrosome reaction. We report the presence of the CERK in human spermatozoa, the enzyme that catalyzes C1P synthesis. Furthermore, CERK exhibited calcium-stimulated enzymatic activity during the acrosome reaction. Exocytosis assays using a CERK inhibitor demonstrated that ceramide induces acrosomal exocytosis, mainly due to C1P synthesis. Strikingly, progesterone required CERK activity to induce intracellular calcium increase and acrosome exocytosis. This is the first report, implicating the bioactive sphingolipid C1P in the physiological progesterone pathway leading to the sperm acrosome reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cintia C. Vaquer
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) “Dr. Mario H. Burgos”, CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Laila Suhaiman
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) “Dr. Mario H. Burgos”, CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Martín A. Pavarotti
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) “Dr. Mario H. Burgos”, CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Rodolfo J. Arias
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) “Dr. Mario H. Burgos”, CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
- LaTIT. Área Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Anahí B. Pacheco Guiñazú
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) “Dr. Mario H. Burgos”, CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Gerardo A. De Blas
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) “Dr. Mario H. Burgos”, CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
- LaTIT. Área Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Silvia A. Belmonte
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) “Dr. Mario H. Burgos”, CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Silvia A. Belmonte, ,
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Balestrini PA, Sanchez-Cardenas C, Luque GM, Baro Graf C, Sierra JM, Hernández-Cruz A, Visconti PE, Krapf D, Darszon A, Buffone MG. Membrane hyperpolarization abolishes calcium oscillations that prevent induced acrosomal exocytosis in human sperm. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21478. [PMID: 33991146 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002333rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Sperm capacitation is essential to gain fertilizing capacity. During this process, a series of biochemical and physiological modifications occur that allow sperm to undergo acrosomal exocytosis (AE). At the molecular level, hyperpolarization of the sperm membrane potential (Em) takes place during capacitation. This study shows that human sperm incubated under conditions that do not support capacitation (NC) can become ready for an agonist stimulated AE by pharmacologically inducing Em hyperpolarization with Valinomycin or Amiloride. To investigate how Em hyperpolarization promotes human sperm's ability to undergo AE, live single-cell imaging experiments were performed to simultaneously monitor changes in [Ca2+ ]i and the occurrence of AE. Em hyperpolarization turned [Ca2+ ]i dynamics in NC sperm from spontaneously oscillating into a sustained slow [Ca2+ ]i increase. The addition of progesterone (P4) or K+ to Valinomycin-treated sperm promoted that a significant number of cells displayed a transitory rise in [Ca2+ ]i which then underwent AE. Altogether, our results demonstrate that Em hyperpolarization is necessary and sufficient to prepare human sperm for the AE. Furthermore, this Em change decreased Ca2+ oscillations that block the occurrence of AE, providing strong experimental evidence of the molecular mechanism that drives the acquisition of acrosomal responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula A Balestrini
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Claudia Sanchez-Cardenas
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, México
| | - Guillermina M Luque
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Baro Graf
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Jessica M Sierra
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Arturo Hernández-Cruz
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Paige Labs, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Dario Krapf
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (CONICET-UNR), Rosario, Argentina
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, México
| | - Mariano G Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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3
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Aldana A, Carneiro J, Martínez-Mekler G, Darszon A. Discrete Dynamic Model of the Mammalian Sperm Acrosome Reaction: The Influence of Acrosomal pH and Physiological Heterogeneity. Front Physiol 2021; 12:682790. [PMID: 34349664 PMCID: PMC8328089 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.682790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The acrosome reaction (AR) is an exocytotic process essential for mammalian fertilization. It involves diverse physiological changes (biochemical, biophysical, and morphological) that culminate in the release of the acrosomal content to the extracellular medium as well as a reorganization of the plasma membrane (PM) that allows sperm to interact and fuse with the egg. In spite of many efforts, there are still important pending questions regarding the molecular mechanism regulating the AR. Particularly, the contribution of acrosomal alkalinization to AR triggering physiological conditions is not well understood. Also, the dependence of the proportion of sperm capable of undergoing AR on the physiological heterogeneity within a sperm population has not been studied. Here, we present a discrete mathematical model for the human sperm AR based on the physiological interactions among some of the main components of this complex exocytotic process. We show that this model can qualitatively reproduce diverse experimental results, and that it can be used to analyze how acrosomal pH (pH a ) and cell heterogeneity regulate AR. Our results confirm that a pH a increase can on its own trigger AR in a subpopulation of sperm, and furthermore, it indicates that this is a necessary step to trigger acrosomal exocytosis through progesterone, a known natural inducer of AR. Most importantly, we show that the proportion of sperm undergoing AR is directly related to the detailed structure of the population physiological heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Aldana
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jorge Carneiro
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Gustavo Martínez-Mekler
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
- Instituto de Ciencias Físicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
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Kharazi U, Badalzadeh R. A review on the stem cell therapy and an introduction to exosomes as a new tool in reproductive medicine. Reprod Biol 2020; 20:447-459. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Vaquer CC, Suhaiman L, Pavarotti MA, De Blas GA, Belmonte SA. Ceramide induces a multicomponent intracellular calcium increase triggering the acrosome secretion in human sperm. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2020; 1867:118704. [PMID: 32194132 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2020.118704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Exocytosis of spermatozoon's secretory vesicle, named acrosome reaction (AR), is a regulated event that plays a central role in fertilization. It is coupled to a complex calcium signaling. Ceramide is a multitasking lipid involved in exocytosis. Nevertheless, its effect on secretion is controversial and the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Human spermatozoa are useful to dissect the role of ceramide in secretion given that the gamete is not capable to undergo any trafficking mechanisms other than exocytosis. We report for the first time, the presence of sphingolipid metabolism enzymes such as neutral-sphingomyelinase and ceramide synthase in sperm. Ceramidases are also present and active. Both the addition of cell-permeable ceramide and the rise of the endogenous one, increase intracellular calcium acting as potent inducers of exocytosis. Ceramide triggers AR in capacitated spermatozoa and enhances the gamete response to progesterone. The lipid induces physiological ultrastructural changes in the acrosome and triggers an exocytosis-signaling cascade involving protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B and VAMP2. Real-time imaging showed an increment of calcium in the cytosol upon ceramide treatment either in the absence or in the presence of extracellular calcium. Pharmacological experiments demonstrate that at early stages the process involves ryanodine receptors, CatSper (calcium channel of sperm), and store-operated calcium channels. We set out the signaling sequence of events that connect ceramide to internal calcium mobilization and external calcium signals during secretion. These results allow the coordination of lipids and proteins in a pathway that accomplishes secretion. Our findings contribute to the understanding of ceramide's role in regulated exocytosis and fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cintia Celina Vaquer
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) "Dr. Mario H. Burgos", CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, 5500 Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Laila Suhaiman
- Instituto Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Básicas (ICB), CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, 5500 Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Martín Alejandro Pavarotti
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) "Dr. Mario H. Burgos", CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, 5500 Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Gerardo Andrés De Blas
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) "Dr. Mario H. Burgos", CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, 5500 Mendoza, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Silvia Alejandra Belmonte
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) "Dr. Mario H. Burgos", CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, 5500 Mendoza, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina.
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6
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Hamzeh H, Alvarez L, Strünker T, Kierzek M, Brenker C, Deal PE, Miller EW, Seifert R, Kaupp UB. Kinetic and photonic techniques to study chemotactic signaling in sea urchin sperm. Methods Cell Biol 2019; 151:487-517. [PMID: 30948028 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mcb.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Sperm from sea urchins are attracted by chemical cues released by the egg-a mechanism called chemotaxis. We describe here the signaling pathway and molecular components endowing sperm with single-molecule sensitivity. Chemotactic signaling and behavioral responses occur on a timescale of a few milliseconds to seconds. We describe the techniques and chemical tools used to resolve the signaling events in time. The techniques include rapid-mixing devices, rapid stroboscopic microscopy, and photolysis of caged second messengers and chemoattractants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein Hamzeh
- Department of Molecular Sensory Systems, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research (caesar), Bonn, Germany
| | - Luis Alvarez
- Department of Molecular Sensory Systems, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research (caesar), Bonn, Germany
| | - Timo Strünker
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Michelina Kierzek
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Christoph Brenker
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Parker E Deal
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Evan W Miller
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States; Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States; Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Reinhard Seifert
- Department of Molecular Sensory Systems, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research (caesar), Bonn, Germany
| | - U Benjamin Kaupp
- Department of Molecular Sensory Systems, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research (caesar), Bonn, Germany.
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7
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Rehfeld A, Dissing S, Skakkebæk NE. Chemical UV Filters Mimic the Effect of Progesterone on Ca 2+ Signaling in Human Sperm Cells. Endocrinology 2016; 157:4297-4308. [PMID: 27583790 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone released by cumulus cells surrounding the egg induces a Ca2+ influx into human sperm cells via the cationic channel of sperm (CatSper) Ca2+ channel and controls multiple Ca2+-dependent responses essential for fertilization. We hypothesized that chemical UV filters may mimic the physiological action of progesterone on CatSper, thus affecting Ca2+ signaling in human sperm cells. We examined 29 UV filters allowed in sunscreens in the United States and/or the European Union for their ability to induce Ca2+ signals in human sperm by applying measurements of the intracellular free Ca2+ concentration. We found that 13 UV filters induced a significant Ca2+ signal at 10 μM. Nine UV filters induced Ca2+ signals primarily by activating the CatSper channel. The UV filters 3-benzylidene camphor (3-BC) and benzylidene camphor sulfonic acid competitively inhibited progesterone-induced Ca2+ signals. Dose-response relations for the UV filters showed that the Ca2+ signal-inducing effects began in the nanomolar-micromolar range. Single-cell Ca2+ measurements showed a Ca2+ signal-inducing effect of the most potent UV filter, 3-BC, at 10 nM. Finally, we demonstrated that the 13 UV filters acted additively in low-dose mixtures to induce Ca2+ signals. In conclusion, 13 of 29 examined UV filters (44%) induced Ca2+ signals in human sperm. Nine UV filters primarily activated CatSper and thereby mimicked the effect of progesterone. The UV filters 3-BC and benzylidene camphor sulfonic acid competitively inhibited progesterone-induced Ca2+ signals. In vivo exposure studies are needed to investigate whether UV filter exposure affects human fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rehfeld
- Department of Growth and Reproduction (A.R., N.E.S.), Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine (A.R., S.D.), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, and International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (A.R., N.E.S.), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - S Dissing
- Department of Growth and Reproduction (A.R., N.E.S.), Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine (A.R., S.D.), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, and International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (A.R., N.E.S.), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - N E Skakkebæk
- Department of Growth and Reproduction (A.R., N.E.S.), Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine (A.R., S.D.), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, and International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (A.R., N.E.S.), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
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8
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Mouse sperm begin to undergo acrosomal exocytosis in the upper isthmus of the oviduct. Dev Biol 2016; 411:172-182. [PMID: 26872876 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2016.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Revised: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence demonstrated that most fertilizing mouse sperm undergo acrosomal exocytosis (AE) before binding to the zona pellucida of the eggs. However, the sites where fertilizing sperm could initiate AE and what stimuli trigger it remain unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine physiological sites of AE by using double transgenic mouse sperm, which carried EGFP in the acrosome and DsRed2 fluorescence in mitochondria. Using live imaging of sperm during in vitro fertilization of cumulus-oocyte complexes, it was observed that most sperm did not undergo AE. Thus, the occurrence of AE within the female reproductive tract was evaluated in the physiological context where this process occurs. Most sperm in the lower segments of the oviduct were acrosome-intact; however, a significant number of sperm that reached the upper isthmus had undergone AE. In the ampulla, only 5% of the sperm were acrosome-intact. These results support our previous observations that most of mouse sperm do not initiate AE close to or on the ZP, and further demonstrate that a significant proportion of sperm initiate AE in the upper segments of the oviductal isthmus.
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du Plessis SS, Agarwal A, Mohanty G, van der Linde M. Oxidative phosphorylation versus glycolysis: what fuel do spermatozoa use? Asian J Androl 2015; 17:230-5. [PMID: 25475660 PMCID: PMC4650467 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.135123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa are highly specialized cells. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which provides the energy for supporting the key functions of the spermatozoa, is formed by 2 metabolic pathways, namely glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). It is produced in the mitochondria through OXPHOS as well as in the head and principal piece of the flagellum through glycolysis. However, there is a great discrepancy as to which method of ATP production is primarily utilized by the spermatozoa for successful fertilization. Mitochondrial respiration is considered to be a more efficient metabolic process for ATP synthesis in comparison to glycolysis. However, studies have shown that the diffusion potential of ATP from the mitochondria to the distal end of the flagellum is not sufficient to support sperm motility, suggesting that glycolysis in the tail region is the preferred pathway for energy production. It is suggested by many investigators that although glycolysis forms the major source of ATP along the flagellum, energy required for sperm motility is mainly produced during mitochondrial respiration. Nevertheless, some studies have shown that when glycolysis is inhibited, proper functioning and motility of spermatozoa remains intact although it is unclear whether such motility can be sustained for prolonged periods of time, or is sufficiently vigorous to achieve optimal fertilization. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of mammalian sperm energy metabolism and identify the preferred metabolic pathway for ATP generation which forms the basis of energy production in human spermatozoa during fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan S du Plessis
- Division of Medical Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa,
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Li K, Xue Y, Chen A, Jiang Y, Xie H, Shi Q, Zhang S, Ni Y. Heat shock protein 90 has roles in intracellular calcium homeostasis, protein tyrosine phosphorylation regulation, and progesterone-responsive sperm function in human sperm. PLoS One 2014; 9:e115841. [PMID: 25541943 PMCID: PMC4277372 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2014] [Accepted: 11/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Heat shock protein 90 plays critical roles in client protein maturation, signal transduction, protein folding and degradation, and morphological evolution; however, its function in human sperm is not fully understood. Therefore, our objective in this study was to elucidate the mechanism by which heat shock protein 90 exerts its effects on human sperm function. By performing indirect immunofluorescence staining, we found that heat shock protein 90 was localized primarily in the neck, midpiece, and tail regions of human sperm, and that its expression increased with increasing incubation time under capacitation conditions. Geldanamycin, a specific inhibitor of heat shock protein 90, was shown to inhibit this increase in heat shock protein 90 expression in western blotting analyses. Using a multifunctional microplate reader to examine Fluo-3 AM-loaded sperm, we observed for the first time that inhibition of heat shock protein 90 by using geldanamycin significantly decreased intracellular calcium concentrations during capacitation. Moreover, western blot analysis showed that geldanamycin enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation of several proteins, including heat shock protein 90, in a dose-dependent manner. The effects of geldanamycin on human sperm function in the absence or presence of progesterone was evaluated by performing chlortetracycline staining and by using a computer-assisted sperm analyzer. We found that geldanamycin alone did not affect sperm capacitation, hyperactivation, and motility, but did so in the presence of progesterone. Taken together, these data suggest that heat shock protein 90, which increases in expression in human sperm during capacitation, has roles in intracellular calcium homeostasis, protein tyrosine phosphorylation regulation, and progesterone-stimulated sperm function. In this study, we provide new insights into the roles of heat shock protein 90 in sperm function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Li
- Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Yamei Xue
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Aijun Chen
- Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Youfang Jiang
- Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Haifeng Xie
- Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Qixian Shi
- Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Songying Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
- * E-mail: (SZ); (YN)
| | - Ya Ni
- Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
- * E-mail: (SZ); (YN)
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11
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Albrizio M, Moramarco AM, Nicassio M, Micera E, Zarrilli A, Lacalandra GM. Localization and functional modification of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels in equine spermatozoa from fresh and frozen semen. Theriogenology 2014; 83:421-9. [PMID: 25459425 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2013] [Revised: 10/01/2014] [Accepted: 10/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
It is well known that insemination of cryopreserved semen always results in lower fertility when compared with fresh semen, but there is an increased interest and demand for frozen equine semen by the major breeder associations because of the utility arising from semen already "on hand" at breeding time. In this article, we report that equine sperm cells express L-type voltage-gated calcium channels; their localization is restricted to sperm neck and to the principal piece of the tail in both fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa. We also studied the causes of cryoinjury at the membrane level focusing on the function of L-type calcium channels. We report that in cryopreserved spermatozoa the mean basal value of [Ca(2+)]i is higher than that of spermatozoa from fresh semen (447.130 vs. 288.3 nM; P < 0.001) and L-type channels function differently in response to their agonist and antagonist in relation to semen condition (fresh or frozen-thawed). We found that on addition of agonist to the culture medium, the increase in intracellular calcium concentrations ([Ca(2+)]i) was greater in frozen semen than in fresh semen (Δ[Ca(2+)]i = 124.59 vs. 16.04 nM; P < 0.001), whereas after the addition of antagonist the decrease in [Ca(2+)]i was lower in frozen semen than in fresh semen (Δ[Ca(2+)]i = 32.5 vs. 82.5 nM; P < 0.001). In this article, we also discuss the impact of cryopreservation on sperm physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Albrizio
- Department of Emergency and Organs Transplantation (DETO), Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions, University of Bari "Aldo Moro," Valenzano, Bari, Italy.
| | - A M Moramarco
- Department of Emergency and Organs Transplantation (DETO), Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions, University of Bari "Aldo Moro," Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - M Nicassio
- Department of Emergency and Organs Transplantation (DETO), Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions, University of Bari "Aldo Moro," Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - E Micera
- Department of Emergency and Organs Transplantation (DETO), Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions, University of Bari "Aldo Moro," Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - A Zarrilli
- Department of Emergency and Organs Transplantation (DETO), Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions, University of Bari "Aldo Moro," Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - G M Lacalandra
- Department of Emergency and Organs Transplantation (DETO), Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions, University of Bari "Aldo Moro," Valenzano, Bari, Italy
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12
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Kotarska K, Galas J, Przybyło M, Bilińska B, Styrna J. Increased progesterone production in cumulus-oocyte complexes of female mice sired by males with the Y-chromosome long arm deletion and its potential influence on fertilization efficiency. Reprod Sci 2014; 22:242-9. [PMID: 24899473 DOI: 10.1177/1933719114537717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
It was revealed previously that B10.BR(Y(del)) females sired by males with the Y-chromosome long arm deletion differ from genetically identical B10.BR females sired by males with the intact Y chromosome. This is interpreted as a result of different epigenetic information which females of both groups inherit from their fathers. In the following study, we show that cumulus-oocyte complexes ovulated by B10.BR(Y(del)) females synthesize increased amounts of progesterone, which is important sperm stimulator. Because their extracellular matrix is excessively firm, the increased progesterone secretion belongs presumably to factors that compensate this feature enabling unchanged fertilization ratios. Described compensatory mechanism can act only on sperm of high quality, presenting proper receptors. Indeed, low proportion of sperm of Y(del) males that poorly fertilize B10.BR(Y(del)) oocytes demonstrates positive staining of membrane progesterone receptors. This proportion is significantly higher for sperm of control males that fertilize B10.BR(Y(del)) and B10.BR oocytes with the same efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kotarska
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Jerzy Galas
- Department of Endocrinology and Tissue Culture, Chair of Animal Physiology, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Przybyło
- Department of Glycoconjugate Biochemistry, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Barbara Bilińska
- Department of Endocrinology and Tissue Culture, Chair of Animal Physiology, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Józefa Styrna
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
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13
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Sugiyama H, Chandler DE. Sperm guidance to the egg finds calcium at the helm. PROTOPLASMA 2014; 251:461-475. [PMID: 24085342 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-013-0550-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Sperm respond to multiple cues during guidance to the egg including chemical attractants, temperature, and fluid flow. Of these, sperm chemotaxis has been studied most extensively-over 100 years-but only recently has it started to be understood at the molecular level. The long gestation in this understanding has largely been due to technical limitations that include the detection of calcium signal dynamics in a relatively small structure-the flagellum, measurement of actual chemoattractant gradients, the fact that only subpopulations of sperm respond at any given time, and the diversity in swimming behaviors that sperm exhibit from different species. Today, measurements of flagellar calcium signals on a fast time scale, discovery of the ion channels and organelles that may regulate these signals, and better understanding and quantitation of sperm swimming behaviors involved have given more certainty to our understanding of sperm directional swimming and its control by characteristic, calcium-directed asymmetric flagellar bends. Future research will need to apply these technical advances to other forms of sperm guidance such as thermotaxis and rheotaxis as well as gaining an understanding of how the flagellar apparatus is controlled by calcium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Sugiyama
- Science and Technology Group, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Okinawa, 904-0495, Japan
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14
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Versatile action of picomolar gradients of progesterone on different sperm subpopulations. PLoS One 2014; 9:e91181. [PMID: 24614230 PMCID: PMC3948779 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0091181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2013] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
High step concentrations of progesterone may stimulate various sperm physiological processes, such as priming and the acrosome reaction. However, approaching the egg, spermatozoa face increasing concentrations of the hormone, as it is secreted by the cumulus cells and then passively diffuses along the cumulus matrix and beyond. In this context, several questions arise: are spermatozoa sensitive to the steroid gradients as they undergo priming and the acrosome reaction? If so, what are the functional gradual concentrations of progesterone? Do spermatozoa in different physiological states respond differentially to steroid gradients? To answer these questions, spermatozoa were confronted with progesterone gradients generated by different hormone concentrations (1 pM to 100 µM). Brief exposure to a 10 pM progesterone gradient stimulated priming for the acrosome reaction in one sperm subpopulation, and simultaneously induced the acrosome reaction in a different sperm subpopulation. This effect was not observed in non-capacitated cells or when progesterone was homogeneously distributed. The results suggest a versatile role of the gradual distribution of very low doses of progesterone, which selectively stimulate the priming and the acrosome reaction in different sperm subpopulations.
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15
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T-type Ca2+ channels in spermatogenic cells and sperm. Pflugers Arch 2014; 466:819-31. [DOI: 10.1007/s00424-014-1478-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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16
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Liu Y, Qu F, Cao X, Chen G, Guo Q, Ying X, Guo W, Lu L, Ding Z. Con A-binding protein Zn-α2-glycoprotein on human sperm membrane is related to acrosome reaction and sperm fertility. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 35:145-57. [PMID: 21790656 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2011.01195.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Fertilization, the recognition and fusion between spermatozoa and oocyte, involves various molecules on the spermatozoa and oocyte membranes. Concanavalin A (ConA)-binding proteins may be one of the molecules involved in mammal spermatozoa fertilization; however, their structure and function remain largely unknown. Here, we initially identified a ConA-binding protein, Zn-α2-glycoprotein (ZAG), involved in regulating the acrosome reaction (AR) of human spermatozoa. ZAG is localized on the pre-equatorial region covering the acrosome, neck and tail (some parts of middle piece and principal piece respectively) regions of the acrosome intact human spermatozoa, and disappears in the acrosomal region of the acrosome-reacted spermatozoa. Polyclonal antibodies against human recombinant ZAG significantly reduced the AR and sperm capability binding to human zona pellucida or penetration into zona-free hamster oocytes. Furthermore, assessment of the signaling pathways regulated by ZAG revealed that ZAG affects sperm AR through both the cAMP/PKA and PKC pathways. These results indicate that ZAG, which is present on the human sperm membrane, plays a critical role in the AR and subsequently, may be involved in sperm fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Liu
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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17
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Puente MA, Tartaglione CM, Ritta MN. Bull sperm acrosome reaction induced by gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is mediated by GABAergic receptors type A. Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 127:31-7. [PMID: 21862247 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2010] [Revised: 06/22/2011] [Accepted: 07/07/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the bull sperm acrosome reaction was evaluated, and the interaction of progesterone, a physiologic inducer of the acrosome reaction, with the GABA receptor was explored. The acrosome reaction was stimulated by GABA in a dose-dependent manner. This effect was inhibited completely by bicuculline, a GABA A receptor antagonist, but GABA B and C receptor antagonists had no effect. Accordingly, muscimol, a GABA A receptor agonist, stimulated the acrosome reaction to the same extent as GABA, whereas baclofen (GABA B receptor agonist) and CACA (GABA C receptor agonist), had no effect. Preincubation with progesterone followed by the addition of GABA resulted in a significant increase in the percentage of acrosome reacted spermatozoa compared with progesterone or GABA alone. Taking into account that this increase was less than a simple addition of effects, it might be suggested that GABA and progesterone act through the same receptor and/or use the same mechanism of action. To test this hypothesis, the abilities of GABA and progesterone to induce acrosome reaction were tested in the presence of bicuculline, which suppressed both stimulatory effects. Given that the GABA A receptor is linked to the Cl(-) channel, we tested whether picrotoxin, a blocker of this channel, could modulate the effects of progesterone or GABA. Cl(-) channel blocker picrotoxin dramatically reduced the GABA and progesterone-initiated AR. IN CONCLUSION GABA and progesterone stimulate the acrosome reaction in bull spermatozoa acting through a classical GABA A receptor. The mechanism of action requires the functional integrity of the Ca(2+) Cl(-) channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Puente
- School of Agrarian Sciences, University of Lomas de Zamora, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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18
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Park KH, Kim BJ, Kang J, Nam TS, Lim JM, Kim HT, Park JK, Kim YG, Chae SW, Kim UH. Ca2+ signaling tools acquired from prostasomes are required for progesterone-induced sperm motility. Sci Signal 2011; 4:ra31. [PMID: 21586728 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.2001595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone-induced calcium ion (Ca2+) signals in the neck region of sperm play a pivotal role in promoting sperm motility. Here, we show that a long-lasting Ca2+ signal required for sperm motility in response to progesterone depends on their pH-dependent fusion with prostasomes, which are small vesicles secreted by the prostate. We found that prostasome fusion led to the transfer of progesterone receptors, cyclic adenosine diphosphoribose (cADPR)-synthesizing enzymes, ryanodine receptors (RyRs), and other Ca2+ signaling tools from prostasomes to the sperm neck. Progesterone-induced sperm motility relied on cADPR-mediated Ca2+ mobilization through RyR located on acidic Ca2+ stores, followed by Ca2+ entry through store-operated channels. Treatment of prostasome-fused sperm with a cADPR antagonist or fusion with prostasomes in which type 2 RyR was depleted resulted in low fertilization rates, reduced sperm motility, or both. Thus, we conclude that sperm motility depends on the acquisition of Ca2+ signaling tools from prostasomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwang-Hyun Park
- Department of Biochemistry, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju 561-180, Korea
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19
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Abstract
Proteins involved in calcium signaling are delivered to sperm through fusion with prostate-derived vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dejian Ren
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, 415 South University Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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20
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Mohamed ESA, Park YJ, Song WH, Shin DH, You YA, Ryu BY, Pang MG. Xenoestrogenic compounds promote capacitation and an acrosome reaction in porcine sperm. Theriogenology 2011; 75:1161-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2010] [Revised: 11/23/2010] [Accepted: 11/23/2010] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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21
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Arienti G, Mazzoni M, Spapperi C, Saccardi C, Palmerini CA. Effect of FSH and progesterone on human spermatozoa cytosolic calcium. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2010; 120:180-3. [PMID: 20417711 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2010.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2009] [Revised: 04/14/2010] [Accepted: 04/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ejaculated spermatozoa must undergo a number of modifications before fertilizing the oocyte: among these the capacitation and the acrosome reaction. Calcium signals play an essential role in these functional and structural modifications. Mature spermatozoa have few organelles and a very small cytoplasmic volume but maintain the homeostasis of [Ca(2+)](c) with great accuracy. We study Ca(2+) mobilization in human spermatozoa exposed to FSH and progesterone by measuring the [Ca(2+)](c) with the FURA-2AM method and report for the first time that the exposure to FSH (up to 98ng/ml) produced an increase of [Ca(2+)](c) to an extent comparable to that observed with 1muM progesterone. FSH and progesterone increase the spermatozoa [Ca(2+)](c) by acting primarily on calcium entry from the external medium. The effects of the two hormones on [Ca(2+)](c) were similar but not identical; the pre-treatment of progesterone blocks the effects of FSH, but not vice-versa. The increase of [Ca(2+)](c) due to FSH was more sensitive to nifedipine (VOCCs inhibitor) than that of progesterone. The effects of these hormones on calcium homeostasis may be relevant for sperm activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Arienti
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Internal Medicine, Via del Giochetto, 06127 Perugia, Italy
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22
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Baldi E, Luconi M, Muratori M, Marchiani S, Tamburrino L, Forti G. Nongenomic activation of spermatozoa by steroid hormones: facts and fictions. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2009; 308:39-46. [PMID: 19549590 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2009.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2008] [Revised: 01/30/2009] [Accepted: 02/17/2009] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The rapid effects of steroids on spermatozoa have been demonstrated for the first time two decades ago. Progesterone (P), which is present throughout the female genital tract with peaks of levels in the cumulus matrix surrounding the oocyte, stimulates several sperm functions, including hyperactivation and acrosome reaction. These effects are mediated by an extranuclear pathway, as P stimulates an influx of calcium, the tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm proteins and other signalling cascades in a rapid manner. Whether these effects are receptor mediated and which receptors mediate these effects are still a matter of discussion despite all the efforts of the scientific community aimed at identifying them during the last 20 years. Although responsiveness to P is related to sperm fertilizing ability, the physiological role of P during the process of fertilization is discussed, and recent evidence points for a role of the steroid as a chemotactic agent for sperm. A similar situation applies for estrogens (E), which have been shown to induce direct effects on sperm by an extranuclear pathway. In particular, E appear to decrease acrosome reaction in response to P, exerting a role in ensuring an appropriate timing for sperm exocytosis during the process of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Baldi
- Dept. of Clinical Physiopathology, Andrology Unit, Center of Excellence for Research, Transfer and High Education DeNothe, University of Florence, Italy.
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23
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Machado-Oliveira G, Lefièvre L, Ford C, Herrero MB, Barratt C, Connolly TJ, Nash K, Morales-Garcia A, Kirkman-Brown J, Publicover S. Mobilisation of Ca2+ stores and flagellar regulation in human sperm by S-nitrosylation: a role for NO synthesised in the female reproductive tract. Development 2008; 135:3677-86. [PMID: 18842814 PMCID: PMC2777309 DOI: 10.1242/dev.024521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Generation of NO by nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is implicated in gamete interaction and fertilisation. Exposure of human spermatozoa to NO donors caused mobilisation of stored Ca(2+) by a mechanism that did not require activation of guanylate cyclase but was mimicked by S-nitroso-glutathione (GSNO; an S-nitrosylating agent). Application of dithiothreitol, to reduce protein -SNO groups, rapidly reversed the actions of NO and GSNO on [Ca(2+)](i). The effects of NO, GSNO and dithiothreitol on sperm protein S-nitrosylation, assessed using the biotin switch method, closely paralleled their actions on [Ca(2+)](i). Immunofluorescent staining revealed constitutive and inducible NOS in human oviduct and cumulus (the cellular layer investing the oocyte). 4,5-diaminofluorescein (DAF) staining demonstrated production of NO by these tissues. Incubation of human sperm with oviduct explants induced sperm protein S-nitrosylation resembling that induced by NO donors and GSNO. Progesterone (a product of cumulus cells) also mobilises stored Ca(2+) in human sperm. Pre-treatment of sperm with NO greatly enhanced the effect of progesterone on [Ca(2+)](i), resulting in a prolonged increase in flagellar excursion. We conclude that NO regulates mobilisation of stored Ca(2+) in human sperm by protein S-nitrosylation, that this action is synergistic with that of progesterone and that this synergism is potentially highly significant in gamete interactions leading to fertilisation.
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24
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Shimizu Y, Minaguchi R, Ishikawa T, Harada T, Yoshiki N, Kubota T. Increase in the concentration of cytosolic-free calcium induced by human follicular fluid was decreased in single human spermatozoon with abnormal morphology. Reprod Med Biol 2008; 7:143-149. [PMID: 29699295 DOI: 10.1111/j.1447-0578.2008.00211.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: The increase in the concentration of cytosolic-free calcium ([Ca2+]i) induced by follicular fluid or progesterone has been reported to promote an acrosome reaction and alternation in several motion parameters in human sperm (hyperactivation). We previously reported that populations of sperm in cell suspension obtained from infertile men with abnormal morphology exhibited lower mean peak progesterone-evoked [Ca2+]i compared with morphologically normal sperm using cell-suspension methods. In the present study, the change in [Ca2+]i in individual normally and abnormally shaped spermatozoa was compared. Methods: The change in [Ca2+]i induced by human follicular fluid in individual spermatozoa with normal and abnormal morphology was compared using the fluorescent calcium-sensitive dye fluo-3/AM. The spatial distribution of the increase in [Ca2+]i in single sperm was also investigated. Results: The [Ca2+]i of normally shaped spermatozoa increased rapidly after the administration of human follicular fluid. The response reached a peak within 2-3 s and then slowly declined to a plateau phase. The baseline and peak fluorescence in spermatozoa with abnormal morphology was lower when compared with normal spermatozoa. The follicular-fluid-induced increase in [Ca2+]i (expressed as a percentage increase in [Ca2+]i over basal) in morphologically abnormal sperm was 39.2 ± 5.3% (n = 107, mean ± standard error), which was smaller than that of morphologically normal sperm (61.6 ± 5.7%, n = 100, P < 0.005) from seven healthy donors. The follicular-fluid-induced [Ca2+]i increases observed in sperm with morphologically abnormal mid-pieces (20.9 ± 4.3%, n = 12, P < 0.05) or tails (40.7 ± 6.0%, n = 92, P < 0.05) were lower than those of morphologically normal spermatozoa (61.6 ± 5.3%, n = 101). The follicular-fluid-induced [Ca2+]i increase of morphologically normal spermatozoa from infertile couples (35.1 ± 6.3%, n = 25, P < 0.05) was also found to be lower than that of morphologically normal spermatozoa from healthy donors. Conclusion: The present study shows that spermatozoa with abnormal morphology in healthy donors have disorders of signal transduction, as do normally shaped sperm in men from infertile couples. (Reprod Med Biol 2008; 7: 143-149).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasufumi Shimizu
- Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Reiko Minaguchi
- Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomonori Ishikawa
- Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Harada
- Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoyuki Yoshiki
- Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiro Kubota
- Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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25
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm hyperactivation is critical to fertilization, because it is required for penetration of the zona pellucida. Hyperactivation may also facilitate release of sperm from the oviductal storage reservoir and may propel sperm through mucus in the oviductal lumen and the matrix of the cumulus oophorus. Hyperactivation is characterized by high amplitude, asymmetrical flagellar bending. METHODS This is a review of the original literature on the mechanisms that regulate hyperactivation, including physiological factors and signaling pathways. RESULTS Computer-assisted semen analysis systems can be used to identify hyperactivated sperm by setting minimum thresholds for curvilinear velocity (VSL) and lateral head movement and a maximum threshold for path linearity. Hyperactivation is triggered by a rise in flagellar Ca(2+) resulting from influx primarily through plasma membrane CatSper channels and possibly also by release of Ca(2+) from a store in the redundant nuclear envelope. It requires increased pH and ATP production. The physiological signals that trigger the rise in Ca(2+) remain elusive, but there is evidence that the increased Ca(2+) acts through a calmodulin/calmodulin kinase pathway. Hyperactivation is considered part of the capacitation process; however, the regulatory pathway that triggers hyperactivation can operate independently from that which prepares sperm to undergo the acrosome reaction. Hyperactivation may be modulated by chemotactic signals to turn sperm toward the oocyte. CONCLUSIONS Little is known about exactly what triggers hyperactivation in human sperm. This information could enable clinicians to develop reliable fertility assays to assess normal hyperactivation in human sperm samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan S Suarez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, T5-002B Veterinary Research Tower, Cornell University Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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26
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Romero F, Cunha MA, Sanchez R, Ferreira AT, Schor N, Oshiro MEM. Effects of arachnotoxin on intracellular pH and calcium in human spermatozoa. Fertil Steril 2007; 87:1345-9. [PMID: 17207796 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.11.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2006] [Revised: 09/12/2006] [Accepted: 11/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the effect of arachnotoxin (ATx), a venom extracted from the Chilean spider Latrodectus mactans, on intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) and pH (pH(i)) in capacitated human spermatozoa. DESIGN Spermatozoa were collected from fertile adult men (n = 8). Mobile spermatozoa were collected by the "swim up" technique and stimulated with the crude extract of ATx and with progesterone (P). SETTING Hospital of the Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) [Ca(2+)](i) was measured in fura2-AM-loaded spermatozoa, and pH(i) was measured in spermatozoa loaded with the pH-sensitive dye [(2',7')-bis (carboxymethyl)-(5,6)-carboxyfluorescein]-AM (BCECF). RESULT(S) The ATx and P induced a biphasic change in [Ca(2+)](i) consisting of a peak followed by a small but sustained elevation. The response to ATx was greatly reduced by pretreatment with P. The ATx caused intracellular acidification, whereas P induced alkalinization. Blockade of the NA(+)/H(+) exchanger with ethylisopropylamiloride (EIPA) sharply increased ATx-induced acidification. CONCLUSION(S) Arachnotoxin increased [Ca(2+)](i) through the opening of calcium channels and release of calcium from intracellular stores. The ATx reduced pH(i) in human sperm, possibly by inhibiting the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Romero
- Center of Reproductive Biotechnology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
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27
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Lefièvre L, Bedu-Addo K, Conner SJ, Machado-Oliveira GSM, Chen Y, Kirkman-Brown JC, Afnan MA, Publicover SJ, Ford WCL, Barratt CLR. Counting sperm does not add up any more: time for a new equation? Reproduction 2007; 133:675-84. [PMID: 17504912 DOI: 10.1530/rep-06-0332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Although sperm dysfunction is the single most common cause of infertility, we have poor methods of diagnosis and surprisingly no effective treatment (excluding assisted reproductive technology). In this review, we challenge the usefulness of a basic semen analysis and argue that a new paradigm is required immediately. We discuss the use of at-home screening to potentially improve the diagnosis of the male and to streamline the management of the sub-fertile couple. Additionally, we outline the recent progress in the field, for example, in proteomics, which will allow the development of new biomarkers of sperm function. This new knowledge will transform our understanding of the spermatozoon as a machine and is likely to lead to non-ART treatments for men with sperm dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Lefièvre
- Reproductive Biology and Genetics Group, Division of Reproductive and Child Health, The Medical School, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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28
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Publicover S, Harper CV, Barratt C. [Ca2+]i signalling in sperm — making the most of what you've got. Nat Cell Biol 2007; 9:235-42. [PMID: 17330112 DOI: 10.1038/ncb0307-235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Thanks to a worrying decrease in male fertility, understanding how sperm 'work' is a matter both of interest and great importance. Sperm of all animals detect various environmental cues. The 'behavioural' and physiological responses of sperm must be specific, appropriate and correctly timed. Strangely, in a cell with few organelles and minimal cytoplasmic volume, internal Ca(2+) concentration, [Ca(2+)](i), regulates almost all these activities. How does such a simple cell achieve this - and is it as simple as it seems?
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Publicover
- Stephen Publicover is in the School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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29
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Bedu-Addo K, Barratt CLR, Kirkman-Brown JC, Publicover SJ. Patterns of [Ca2+]i mobilization and cell response in human spermatozoa exposed to progesterone. Dev Biol 2007; 302:324-32. [PMID: 17054937 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2006.09.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2006] [Revised: 09/12/2006] [Accepted: 09/21/2006] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Human spermatozoa stimulated with progesterone (a product of the cumulus and thus encountered by sperm prior to fertilization in vivo) apparently mobilize Ca(2+) and respond very differently according to the way in which the steroid is presented. A progesterone concentration ramp (0-3 microM) induces [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations (repetitive store mobilization) which modify flagellar beating, whereas bolus application of micromolar progesterone causes a single large transient (causing acrosome reaction) which is apparently dependent upon Ca(2+) influx. We have investigated Ca(2+)-mobilization and functional responses in human sperm exposed to 3 muM progesterone. The [Ca(2+)](i) response to progesterone was abolished by 4 min incubation in 0 Ca(2+) medium (2 mM EGTA) but in nominally Ca(2+)-free medium (no added Ca(2+); 0 EGTA) a smaller, slow response occurred. Single cell imaging showed a similar effect of nominally Ca(2+)-free medium and approximately 5% of cells generated a small transient even in the presence of EGTA. When cells were exposed to EGTA-containing saline (5 min) and then returned to nominally Ca(2+)-free medium before stimulation, the [Ca(2+)](i) transient was greatly delayed (approximately 50 s) and rise time was doubled in comparison to cells not subjected to EGTA pre-treatment. We conclude that mobilization of stored Ca(2+) contributes a 'slow' component to the progesterone-induced [Ca(2+)](i) transient and that incubation in EGTA-buffered saline is able rapidly to deplete this store. Analysis of flagellar activity induced by 3 muM progesterone showed an effect (modified beating) associated with the [Ca(2+)](i) transient, in >80% of cells bathed in nominally Ca(2+)-free medium. This was reduced greatly in cells subjected to 5 min EGTA pre-treatment. The store-mediated transient showed a pharmacological sensitivity similar to that of progesterone-induced [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations (consistent with filling of the store by an SPCA) suggesting that the transient induced by micromolar progesterone is a 'single shot' activation of the same store that generates Ca(2+) oscillations.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Bedu-Addo
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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30
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Jungnickel MK, Sutton KA, Wang Y, Florman HM. Phosphoinositide-dependent pathways in mouse sperm are regulated by egg ZP3 and drive the acrosome reaction. Dev Biol 2006; 304:116-26. [PMID: 17258189 PMCID: PMC1892180 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2006.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2006] [Revised: 12/08/2006] [Accepted: 12/11/2006] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sperm of many animals must complete an exocytotic event, the acrosome reaction, in order to fuse with eggs. In mammals, acrosome reactions are triggered during sperm contact with the egg extracellular matrix, or zona pellucida, by the matrix glycoprotein ZP3. Here, we show that ZP3 stimulates production of phosphatidylinositol-(3,4,5)-triphosphate in sperm membranes. Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase antagonists that prevent acrosome reactions and fertilization in vitro, while generation of this phosphoinositide in the absence of ZP3 triggered acrosome reactions. Downstream effectors of phosphatidylinositol-(3,4,5)-triphosphate in sperm include the protein kinases, Akt and PKCzeta. These studies outline a signal transduction pathway that plays an essential role in the early events of mammalian fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa K Jungnickel
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Massachusetts, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
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Su YQ, Nyegaard M, Overgaard MT, Qiao J, Giudice LC. Participation of mitogen-activated protein kinase in luteinizing hormone-induced differential regulation of steroidogenesis and steroidogenic gene expression in mural and cumulus granulosa cells of mouse preovulatory follicles. Biol Reprod 2006; 75:859-67. [PMID: 16943367 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.106.052613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The LH surge induces the terminal differentiation and onset of luteinization in granulosa cells of preovulatory follicles, a process that involves the differential expression of genes essential for steroidogenesis and appears to be mediated by complex signaling pathways. The objective of this study was to investigate whether these processes that commonly occur in mural granulosa cells (MGCs) also occur in cumulus cells, and whether they are mediated by the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), specifically MAPK3/1 (also commonly known as extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1&2, ERK1/2). The standard superovulation model for premature female mice was used to obtain MGCs and cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), and sensitive real-time RT-PCR was used to simultaneously detect the expression levels of transcripts encoding key steroidogenic enzymes in the same sample. We observed significant downregulation of Cyp19a1 and upregulation of Star and Cyp11a1 mRNA expression in both COCs and MGCs after in vivo administration of hCG or in vitro treatment with gonadotropins or 8-Br-cAMP. This differential pattern of steroidogenic gene expression was correlated with the ultimate changes of circulating estradiol (E(2)) and progesterone (P(4)) levels after administration of hCG. In vitro, when MGCs and COCs were treated with U0126 - a specific inhibitor of MAPK3/1 activation - gonadotropin-induced P(4) production, 8-Br-cAMP-induced P(4) production, and expression of Star and Cyp11a1 mRNA were significantly downregulated, whereas the levels of E(2) and Cyp19a1 mRNA in the same samples were significantly upregulated. We conclude that the surge of preovulatory LH induces the differential expression of transcripts encoding key steroidogenic enzymes essential for E(2) and P(4) synthesis in both cumulus and MGCs, and this process is mediated by the MAPK3/1-dependent pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Qiang Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USA
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