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Sereshki N, Rafiee M, Alipour R, Wilkinson D, Ahmadipanah V. CD5 expression by human ejaculated spermatozoa. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43043-022-00095-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
A complex of effector and predominant regulatory immune responses are induced in the female reproductive tract (FRT) due to insemination that is necessary to achieve pregnancy. The expression of immune regulatory molecules by spermatozoa indicates the significance of the interaction between spermatozoa and immune cells recruited to the FRT in the preparation of appropriate immunity for pregnancy occurrence. One of the immune regulatory molecules is CD5 whose expression by spermatozoa has not yet been investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the expression of CD5 on the surface of human spermatozoa. Semen samples were collected from 30 healthy men with normal semen status. CD5 expression on purified spermatozoa was evaluated by flow cytometry methods.
Results
The results showed the mean ± SD percentage of CD5 positive spermatozoa was 49.41 ± 8.73.
Conclusion
CD5 is expressed on spermatozoa.
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Dahlen CR, Borowicz PP, Ward AK, Caton JS, Czernik M, Palazzese L, Loi P, Reynolds LP. Programming of Embryonic Development. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11668. [PMID: 34769097 PMCID: PMC8583791 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive techniques (ART) and parental nutritional status have profound effects on embryonic/fetal and placental development, which are probably mediated via "programming" of gene expression, as reflected by changes in their epigenetic landscape. Such epigenetic changes may underlie programming of growth, development, and function of fetal organs later in pregnancy and the offspring postnatally, and potentially lead to long-term changes in organ structure and function in the offspring as adults. This latter concept has been termed developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD), or simply developmental programming, which has emerged as a major health issue in animals and humans because it is associated with an increased risk of non-communicable diseases in the offspring, including metabolic, behavioral, and reproductive dysfunction. In this review, we will briefly introduce the concept of developmental programming and its relationship to epigenetics. We will then discuss evidence that ART and periconceptual maternal and paternal nutrition may lead to epigenetic alterations very early in pregnancy, and how each pregnancy experiences developmental programming based on signals received by and from the dam. Lastly, we will discuss current research on strategies designed to overcome or minimize the negative consequences or, conversely, to maximize the positive aspects of developmental programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl R. Dahlen
- Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; (C.R.D.); (P.P.B.); (A.K.W.); (J.S.C.)
| | - Pawel P. Borowicz
- Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; (C.R.D.); (P.P.B.); (A.K.W.); (J.S.C.)
| | - Alison K. Ward
- Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; (C.R.D.); (P.P.B.); (A.K.W.); (J.S.C.)
| | - Joel S. Caton
- Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; (C.R.D.); (P.P.B.); (A.K.W.); (J.S.C.)
| | - Marta Czernik
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (M.C.); (P.L.)
| | - Luca Palazzese
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Jastrzębiec, 05-552 Magdalenka, Poland;
| | - Pasqualino Loi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (M.C.); (P.L.)
| | - Lawrence P. Reynolds
- Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; (C.R.D.); (P.P.B.); (A.K.W.); (J.S.C.)
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3
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Santiago J, Silva JV, Howl J, Santos MAS, Fardilha M. All you need to know about sperm RNAs. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:67-91. [PMID: 34624094 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis generates a small and highly specialised type of cell that is apparently incapable of transcription and translation. For many years, this dogma was supported by the assumption that (i) the compact sperm nucleus, resulting from the substitution of histones by protamine during spermatogenesis, renders the genome inaccessible to the transcriptional machinery; and (ii) the loss of most organelles, including endoplasmic reticulum and ribosomes, limits or prevents translational activity. Despite these observations, several types of coding and non-coding RNAs have been identified in human sperm. Their functional roles, particularly during fertilisation and embryonic development, are only now becoming apparent. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aimed to summarise current knowledge of the origin, types and functional roles of sperm RNAs, and to evaluate the clinical benefits of employing these transcripts as biomarkers of male fertility and reproductive outcomes. The possible contribution of sperm RNAs to intergenerational or transgenerational phenotypic inheritance is also addressed. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive literature search on PubMed was conducted using the search terms 'sperm' AND 'RNA'. Searches focussed upon articles written in English and published prior to August 2020. OUTCOMES The development of more sensitive and accurate RNA technologies, including RNA sequencing, has enabled the identification and characterisation of numerous transcripts in human sperm. Though a majority of these RNAs likely arise during spermatogenesis, other data support an epididymal origin of RNA transmitted to maturing sperm by extracellular vesicles. A minority may also be synthesised by de novo transcription in mature sperm, since a small portion of the sperm genome remains packed by histones. This complex RNA population has important roles in paternal chromatin packaging, sperm maturation and capacitation, fertilisation, early embryogenesis and developmental maintenance. In recent years, additional lines of evidence from animal models support a role for sperm RNAs in intergenerational or transgenerational inheritance, modulating both the genotype and phenotype of progeny. Importantly, several reports indicate that the sperm RNA content of fertile and infertile men differs considerably and is strongly modulated by the environment, lifestyle and pathological states. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Transcriptional profiling has considerable potential for the discovery of fertility biomarkers. Understanding the role of sperm transcripts and comparing the sperm RNA fingerprint of fertile and infertile men could help to elucidate the regulatory pathways contributing to male factor infertility. Such data might also provide a molecular explanation for several causes of idiopathic male fertility. Ultimately, transcriptional profiling may be employed to optimise ART procedures and overcome some of the underlying causes of male infertility, ensuring the birth of healthy children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Santiago
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana V Silva
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.,i3S-Institute for Innovation and Health Research, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - John Howl
- Research Institute in Healthcare Science, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, UK
| | - Manuel A S Santos
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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4
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Sadakierska-Chudy A, Patrylak J, Janeczko J, Chudy J. Downregulation of gene expression and the outcome of ICSI in severe oligozoospermic patients: A preliminary study. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:1219-1230. [PMID: 33241638 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Preimplantation embryo development might be influenced by a specific set of transcripts that are delivered to the oocyte by the sperm. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between the level of selected transcripts in spermatozoa and preimplantation development of the embryos in couples with severe oligozoospermia undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) procedure. Therefore, we assessed messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of genes involved in fertilization events, oocyte activation, chromatin remodeling, and DNA repair in severe oligozoospermic compared with normozoospermic men as well as morphokinetic parameters of embryos using the time-lapse imaging system. mRNA profiling (44 genes), in mature sperm, was carried out with custom-designed 384-well TLDA Cards. The morphokinetic parameters of zygotes and embryos were recorded by using a time-lapse imaging system. The transcript levels of 21 genes were significantly decreased in the severe oligozoospermic group. Most were associated with fertilization events, oocyte activation and embryonic genome activation. Among them, mRNA of AKAP4 and PTK7 was greatly reduced, moreover, the transcripts of PLCζ and POU5F1, essential for OA and EGA, were not detected at all in patients with severe oligozoospermia. Moreover, the reduced expression of genes important for spermatogenesis, chromatin remodeling and DNA repair was also observed in this group. Time-lapse analysis revealed that fertilization failure occurred in 14% of retrieved oocytes and 90% of all degenerated embryos did not reach morula stage. This study provides preliminary results indicating a significant decrease in transcripts of genes important for spermatogenesis and early preimplantation development in the mature sperm of men with severe oligozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sadakierska-Chudy
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Krakow, Poland
| | - J Patrylak
- Infertility Treatment Centre PARENS, Krakow, Poland
| | - J Janeczko
- Infertility Treatment Centre PARENS, Krakow, Poland
| | - J Chudy
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Krakow, Poland
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5
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Male Factors: the Role of Sperm in Preimplantation Embryo Quality. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:1788-1811. [DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00334-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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6
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Nazmara Z, Shirinbayan P, Reza Asgari H, Ahadi R, Asgari F, Maki CB, Fattahi F, Hosseini B, Janzamin E, Koruji M. The epigenetic alterations of human sperm cells caused by heroin use disorder. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13799. [PMID: 33099803 DOI: 10.1111/and.13799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms of drug use on sexual health are largely unknown. We investigated, the relationship between heroin use disorder and epigenetic factors influencing histone acetylation in sperm cells. The volunteers included twenty-four 20- to 50-year-old men with a normal spermogram who did not consume any drugs and twenty-four age- to BMI-matched men who consume only the drug heroin for more than last four months. HDAC1 and HDAC11 mRNA expression levels in spermatozoa and miR-34c-5p and miR-125b-5p expression levels in seminal plasma were measured. The heroin-user group showed significantly increased white blood cell counts and decreased sperm motility and survival rates (8.61 ± 1.73, 21.50 ± 3.11, 69.90 ± 4.69 respectively) as compared to the control group (1.49 ± 0.32, 38.82 ± 3.05, 87.50 ± 0.99 respectively) (p ≤ .001). An increase in DNA fragmentation index (DFI) (heroin-user group: 41.93 ± 6.59% and control group: 10.14 ± 1.43%, p = .003), a change in frequency of HDAC1 (heroin-user group: 1.69 ± 0.55 and control group: 0.45 ± 0.14, p = .045) and HDAC11 (heroin-user group: 0.29 ± 0.13 and control group: 2.36 ± 0.76, p = .019) in spermatozoa and a significant decrease in seminal miR-125b-5p abundance (heroin-user group: 0.37 ± 0.11 and control group: 1.59 ± 0.47, p = .028) were reported in heroin consumers. Heroin use can lead to male infertility by causing leukocytospermia, asthenozoospermia, DFI elevation in sperm cells and alterations in seminal RNA profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Nazmara
- Legal Medicine Research Center, Legal Medicine Organization, Tehran, Iran
| | - Peymaneh Shirinbayan
- Pediatric Neuro-Rehabilitation Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Asgari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center & Department of Anatomy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Ahadi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center & Department of Anatomy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Asgari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center & Department of Anatomy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Chad B Maki
- VetCell Therapeutics USA, Santa Ana, CA, USA
| | - Fahimeh Fattahi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bitasadat Hosseini
- Department of Biochemistry, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Janzamin
- Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Royan Institute, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center & Department of Anatomy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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7
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Daigneault BW. Dynamics of paternal contributions to early embryo development in large animals. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:274-281. [PMID: 32997138 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on current knowledge of paternal contributions to preimplantation embryonic development with particular emphasis on large animals. Specifically, the included content aims to summarize genomic and epigenomic contributions of paternally expressed genes, their regulation, and chromatin structure that are indispensable for early embryo development. The accumulation of current knowledge will summarize conserved allelic function among species to include functional molecular and genomic studies across large domestic animals in context with reference to founding experimental models.
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8
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Kadivar A, Shams Esfandabadi N, Dehghani Nazhvani E, Shirazi A, Ahmadi E. Effects of cryopreservation on stallion sperm protamine messenger RNAs. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:274-282. [PMID: 31885108 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13615] [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: 10/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Protamines substitute DNA-binding histones during late spermatogenesis in sperm nucleus. Stallion sperm contains all three variants of these arginine-rich and positively charged nuclear proteins (P1, P2 and P3). Two variants of protamine-2, that is P2 and P3, constitute approximately 15% of the entire protamine content. Also, the ratio of protamine-1 to protamine-2 varies among different mammalian species, and abnormal protamine ratios and protamine content are correlated with male infertility. In this study, changes in protamine mRNA abundance for all three protamines were investigated in stallion sperm during cryopreservation. Twelve ejaculates were collected from six sexually mature stallions. Sperm samples were divided into two parts for total mRNA extraction: one as fresh and the other as cryopreserved sample. Levels of three protamine transcripts were determined by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Results of relative expression showed that cryopreservation can significantly alter protamine transcripts: protamine 2 was downregulated, while protamine 3 was upregulated in cryopreserved samples relative to the control. Changes in protamine 1 were not significant after cryopreservation. This study is the first to evaluate changes in mRNA abundance of protamine genes in stallion sperm following cryopreservation. Such evaluations are important in finding transcriptomic markers for success in fertilization and assisted reproductive techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Kadivar
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran.,Research Institute of Animal Embryo Technology, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Naser Shams Esfandabadi
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Ehsan Dehghani Nazhvani
- Theriogenology resident, Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Shirazi
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Ahmadi
- Research Institute of Animal Embryo Technology, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran
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9
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Gross N, Strillacci MG, Peñagaricano F, Khatib H. Characterization and functional roles of paternal RNAs in 2-4 cell bovine embryos. Sci Rep 2019; 9:20347. [PMID: 31889064 PMCID: PMC6937301 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55868-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryos utilize oocyte-donated RNAs until they become capable of producing RNAs through embryonic genome activation (EGA). The sperm's influence over pre-EGA RNA content of embryos remains unknown. Recent studies have revealed that sperm donate non-genomic components upon fertilization. Thus, sperm may also contribute to RNA presence in pre-EGA embryos. The first objective of this study was to investigate whether male fertility status is associated with the RNAs present in the bovine embryo prior to EGA. A total of 65 RNAs were found to be differentially expressed between 2-4 cell bovine embryos derived from high and low fertility sires. Expression patterns were confirmed for protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 36 (PPP1R36) and ataxin 2 like (ATXN2L) in three new biological replicates. The knockdown of ATXN2L led to a 22.9% increase in blastocyst development. The second objective of this study was to characterize the parental origin of RNAs present in pre-EGA embryos. Results revealed 472 sperm-derived RNAs, 2575 oocyte-derived RNAs, 2675 RNAs derived from both sperm and oocytes, and 663 embryo-exclusive RNAs. This study uncovers an association of male fertility with developmentally impactful RNAs in 2-4 cell embryos. This study also provides an initial characterization of paternally-contributed RNAs to pre-EGA embryos. Furthermore, a subset of 2-4 cell embryo-specific RNAs was identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Gross
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Animal Sciences, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | | | | | - Hasan Khatib
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Animal Sciences, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.
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10
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González-Rojo S, Lombó M, Fernández-Díez C, Herráez MP. Male exposure to bisphenol a impairs spermatogenesis and triggers histone hyperacetylation in zebrafish testes. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 248:368-379. [PMID: 30818116 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.01.127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor whose ubiquitous presence in the environment has been related with impairment of male reproduction. BPA can cause both transcriptomic and epigenetic changes during spermatogenesis. To evaluate the potential effects of male exposure to BPA, adult zebrafish males were exposed during spermatogenesis to doses of 100 and 2000 μg/L, which were reported in contaminated water bodies and higher than those allowed for human consumption. Fertilization capacity and survival at hatching were analysed after mating with untreated females. Spermatogenic progress was analysed through a morphometrical study of testes and apoptosis was evaluated by TUNEL assay. Testicular gene expression was evaluated by RT-qPCR and epigenetics by using ELISA and immunocytochemistry. In vitro studies were performed to investigate the role of Gper. Chromatin fragmentation and the presence of transcripts were also evaluated in ejaculated sperm. Results on testes from males treated with the highest dose showed a significant decrease in spermatocytes, an increase in apoptosis, a downregulation of ccnb1 and sycp3, all of which point to an alteration of spermatogenesis and to meiotic arrest and an upregulation of gper1 and esrrga receptors. Additionally, BPA at 2000 μg/L caused missregulation of epigenetic remodelling enzymes transcripts in testes and promoted DNA hypermethylation and H3K27me3 demethylation. BPA also triggered an increase in histone acetyltransferase activity, which led to hyperacetylation of histones (H3K9ac, H3K14ac, H4K12ac). In vitro reversion of histone acetylation changes using a specific GPER antagonist, G-36, suggested this receptor as mediator of histone hyperacetylation. Males treated with the lower dose only showed an increase in some histone acetylation marks (H3K14ac, H4K12ac) but their progeny displayed very limited survival at hatching, revealing the deleterious effects of unbalanced paternal epigenetic information. Furthermore, the highest dose of BPA led to chromatin fragmentation, promoting direct reproductive effects, which are incompatible with embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- S González-Rojo
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Universidad de León, Campus de Veganaza s/n, León, 24071, Spain
| | - M Lombó
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Universidad de León, Campus de Veganaza s/n, León, 24071, Spain
| | - C Fernández-Díez
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Universidad de León, Campus de Veganaza s/n, León, 24071, Spain
| | - M P Herráez
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Universidad de León, Campus de Veganaza s/n, León, 24071, Spain.
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11
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Oehninger S, Ombelet W. Limits of current male fertility testing. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:835-841. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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12
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Hamad MF. Quantification of histones and protamines mRNA transcripts in sperms of infertile couples and their impact on sperm's quality and chromatin integrity. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:6-13. [PMID: 30876814 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The proper transition of histones to protamine during spermiogenesis is critical for male fertility. This study aimed to quantify the levels of histones and protamines mRNA in sperms of infertile couples and their possible effect on the sperm's quality and chromatin integrity. Spermatozoa from 53 normal and 75 patients were enrolled in this study. Histones and Protamine mRNAs were extracted, reverse-transcribed and applied to real-time quantitative PCR. Chromomycin A3 staining was used to assess protamination and chromatin integrity, and Eosin-Nigrosine-Test and HOS-Test was used to evaluate the sperm's vitality and membrane integrity respectively. Levels of histones H2A and H2B mRNA in patient's sperms were significantly (p < 0.01) higher than that of normal (31.22 ± 2.91, 30.03 ± 2.05 vs. 25.62 ± 1.98, 27.23 ± 3.04, respectively). Protamine PRM2 mRNA in patient's sperms (20.55 ± 2.01) was significantly lower than in normal (21.73 ± 2.64, p < 0.01). The PRM1/PRM2 and H2A/H2B mRNAs ratios were significantly higher (p < 0.01) in patients than normal (1.02 ± 0.10, 1.04 ± 0.07 vs. 0.98 ± 0.06, 0.94 ± 0.08 respectively). Also, the sperm's nuclear histones to protamines transcripts ((H2A + H2B)/(PRM1 + PRM2)) ratios of patients (1.49 ± 0.16) was significantly higher (p < 0.01) than that of normal (1.25 ± 0.15). Histone/protamine transcripts [((H2A + H2B)/(PRM1 + PRM2)) mRNAs ratios] were negatively correlated (p < 0.05) with sperm's count, total count, motility, progressive motility, normal morphology, membrane integrity and positively with chromatin decondensation. The data suggests that histones/protamines mRNAs ratios are important for a sperm's quality and therefore could be used as predictors for male infertility. Also, validation study may be required to confirm the study conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Faiz Hamad
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Science and Health Professions, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; IVF & Andrology Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany.
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13
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Dhawan V, Kumar M, Deka D, Malhotra N, Singh N, Dadhwal V, Dada R. Paternal factors and embryonic development: Role in recurrent pregnancy loss. Andrologia 2018; 51:e13171. [PMID: 30324700 DOI: 10.1111/and.13171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 08/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The events occurring at the maternal-foetal interface define a successful pregnancy but the current paradigm has shifted towards assessing the contribution of spermatozoa for embryogenesis. Spermatozoa with defective DNA integrity may fertilise the oocyte but affect subsequent embryonic development. The present case-control study was conducted in male partners of couples experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) to assess the gene expression of spermatozoal FOXG1, SOX3, OGG1, PARP1, RPS6, RBM9, RPS17 and RPL29. This was correlated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI). Semen samples were obtained from 60 cases and 30 fertile controls. Gene expression was done by qPCR analysis, and relative quantification was calculated by the 2-ΔΔCt method. Chemiluminescence and the sperm chromatin structure assay were used to measure the ROS and DFI levels respectively. FOXG1, OGG1, RPS6 and RBM9 were seen to be upregulated, while SOX3 and PARP1 were downregulated. Relative expression of SOX3, OGG1, RPS6 and RPS17 showed a significant difference between patients and controls (p < 0.05). RPL patients were seen to have high ROS (>27.8; p = 0.001) and DFI (>30.7; p < 0.0001) with respect to controls. Sperm transcript dysregulation and oxidative DNA damage can be "carried over" after implantation, thus affecting embryogenesis and health of the future progeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidhu Dhawan
- Department of Anatomy, Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction & Genetics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Department of Anatomy, Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction & Genetics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Dipika Deka
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Neena Malhotra
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Neeta Singh
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Vatsla Dadhwal
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Rima Dada
- Department of Anatomy, Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction & Genetics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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14
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Hezavehei M, Sharafi M, Kouchesfahani HM, Henkel R, Agarwal A, Esmaeili V, Shahverdi A. Sperm cryopreservation: A review on current molecular cryobiology and advanced approaches. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 37:327-339. [PMID: 30143329 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Revised: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The cryopreservation of spermatozoa was introduced in the 1960s as a route to fertility preservation. Despite the extensive progress that has been made in this field, the biological and biochemical mechanisms involved in cryopreservation have not been thoroughly elucidated to date. Various factors during the freezing process, including sudden temperature changes, ice formation and osmotic stress, have been proposed as reasons for poor sperm quality post-thaw. Little is known regarding the new aspects of sperm cryobiology, such as epigenetic and proteomic modulation of sperm and trans-generational effects of sperm freezing. This article reviews recent reports on molecular and cellular modifications of spermatozoa during cryopreservation in order to collate the existing understanding in this field. The aim is to discuss current freezing techniques and novel strategies that have been developed for sperm protection against cryo-damage, as well as evaluating the probable effects of sperm freezing on offspring health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Hezavehei
- Department of EmbryologyReproductive Biomedicine Research CentreRoyan Institute for Reproductive BiomedicineACECRTehranIran; Department of Animal BiologyFaculty of Biological SciencesKharazmi UniversityTehranIran
| | - Mohsen Sharafi
- Department of Poultry ScienceFaculty of AgricultureTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran.
| | | | - Ralf Henkel
- American Centre for Reproductive MedicineCleveland ClinicClevelandUSA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Department of Medical BioscienceUniversity of the Western CapeBellvilleSouth Africa
| | - Vahid Esmaeili
- Department of EmbryologyReproductive Biomedicine Research CentreRoyan Institute for Reproductive BiomedicineACECRTehranIran
| | - Abdolhossein Shahverdi
- Department of EmbryologyReproductive Biomedicine Research CentreRoyan Institute for Reproductive BiomedicineACECRTehranIran.
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15
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Paoli D, Pelloni M, Gallo M, Coltrinari G, Lombardo F, Lenzi A, Gandini L. Sperm glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase gene expression in asthenozoospermic spermatozoa. Asian J Androl 2018; 19:409-413. [PMID: 27080476 PMCID: PMC5507084 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.173934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been suggested that the energy required for sperm motility is produced by oxidative phosphorylation while glycolysis seems to be an important source for ATP transmission along the flagellum. Some studies have investigated the chemical and kinetic properties of the enzyme glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase to identify any changes in the regulation of glycolysis and sperm motility. In contrast, there are few studies analyzing the genetic basis of hypokinesis. For this reason, we investigated the glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase gene in human sperm to evaluate whether asthenozoospermia was correlated with any changes in its expression. Semen examination and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase gene expression studies were carried out on 116 semen samples divided into two groups – Group A consisted of 58 normokinetic samples and Group B of 58 hypokinetic samples. Total RNA was extracted from spermatozoa, and real-time PCR quantification of mRNA was carried out using specific primers and probes. The expression profiles for the Groups A and B were very similar. The mean delta Ct was as follows – Group A, 5.79 ± 1.04; Group B, 5.47 ± 1.27. Our study shows that in human sperm, there is no difference in glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase gene expression between samples with impaired motility and samples with normal kinetics. We believe that this study could help in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of sperm kinetics, suggesting that hypomotility may be due to a possible posttranscriptional impairment of the control mechanism, such as mRNA splicing, or to posttranslational changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Paoli
- Laboratory of Seminology - Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "La Sapienza", 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marianna Pelloni
- Laboratory of Seminology - Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "La Sapienza", 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Mariagrazia Gallo
- Laboratory of Seminology - Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "La Sapienza", 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Coltrinari
- Laboratory of Seminology - Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "La Sapienza", 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology - Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "La Sapienza", 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Laboratory of Seminology - Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "La Sapienza", 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Gandini
- Laboratory of Seminology - Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "La Sapienza", 00161 Rome, Italy
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16
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Simopoulou M, Gkoles L, Bakas P, Giannelou P, Kalampokas T, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Improving ICSI: A review from the spermatozoon perspective. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2016; 62:359-371. [PMID: 27646677 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2016.1229365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is the most frequently applied method for fertilization making the process of identifying the perfect spermatozoon fundamental. Herein we offer a critical and thorough presentation on the techniques reported regarding (i) handling and preparing semen samples, (ii) identifying and 'fishing' spermatozoa, and (iii) improving key factors, such as motility for a successful ICSI practice. These approaches are suggested to make the process easier and more effective especially in atypical and challenging circumstances. Furthermore, we present an epigrammatic opinion-where appropriate-based upon our collective experience. Techniques such as intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection, hyaluronic binding, polarized light microscopy, and annexin V agent identification for comparing sperm cells and their chromatin integrity are analyzed. Moreover, for the demanding cases of total sperm immotility the use of the hypoosmotic swelling test, methylxanthines, as well as the option of laser assisted immotile sperm selection are discussed. Finally, we refer to the employment of myoinositol as a way to bioreactively improve ICSI outcome for oligoasthenoteratozoospermic men. The diversity and the constant development of novel promising techniques to improve ICSI from the spermatozoon perspective, is certainly worth pursuing. The majority of the techniques discussed are still a long way from being established in routine practices of the standard IVF laboratory. In most cases an experienced embryologist could yield the same results. Although some of the techniques show great benefits, there is a need for large scale multicenter randomized control studies to be conducted in order to specify their importance before suggesting horizontal application. Taking into consideration the a priori invasive nature of ICSI, when clinical application becomes a possibility we need to proceed with caution and ensure that in the pursuit for innovation we are not sacrificing safety and the balance of the physiological and biological pathways of the spermatozoon's dynamic. ABBREVIATIONS ICSI: intracytoplasmic sperm injection; IVF: in vitro fertilization; PGD: reimplantation genetic diagnosis; IVM: in vitro maturation; HCV/HIV: hepatitis C virus/human immunodeficiency virus; IMSI: intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection; DGC: density gradient centrifugations; S-U: swim-up; ART: assisted reproduction technology; IUI: intrauterine insemination; PVP: polyvinylpyrrolidone; HA: hyaluronic acid; MSOME: motile sperm organelle morphology examination; ZP: zona pellucida; MACS: magnetic activation cell sorting; HOST: hypo-osmotic swelling test; TESE: testicular sperm extraction; MMP: mitochondrial membrane potential; OAT: oligoasthenoteratozoospermic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Simopoulou
- a Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece.,b Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Laertis Gkoles
- b Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Panagiotis Bakas
- b Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Polina Giannelou
- b Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Theodoros Kalampokas
- b Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | | | - Michael Koutsilieris
- a Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
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17
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Recombinant N-Domain of Pregnancy-Specific Glycoprotein from E. coli Cells: Analysis of the Spectrum of Polyclonal Antibodies. Bull Exp Biol Med 2015; 160:76-80. [PMID: 26601832 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-015-3102-7] [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: 12/12/2014] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
We studied antibody spectrum in antisera to IgG-like recombinant N-domain of pregnancyspecific glycoprotein-1 (rPSG-N) from E. coli cells. In three experimental series, the fraction of IgG antibodies from anti-rPSG-N sera was immobilized on 3 immunoadsorbents: by polymerization with glutaraldehyde, on glutaraldehyde activated biogel P-300, and on commercial CNBr-activated 4B sepharose. Retroplacental serum was incubated with immobilized antibodies to rPSG1-N, protein was eluted and tested in the precipitation test in standard test systems with PSG1, IgG, and human serum albumin. Three proteins were eluted from all 3 immunoadsorbents: PSG1, IgG, and human serum albumin, which demonstrated the spectrum of antibodies to 3 proteins present also in natural serum PSG1 complex. The proportions of PSG1 and IgG obtained in these experiments were similar to those in natural serum PSG1 complex, while the level of human serum albumin was significantly higher in natural PSG1 complex. Thus, we failed to obtain PSG1 monoprotein free from IgG and human serum albumin. Antigenic mosaicism of the polypeptide chain of IgG-like rPSG1-N relative to the antigenic polyvalence of the complex of three proteins present in bioactive preparation of natural serum PSG1 was discussed.
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18
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Johnson GD, Mackie P, Jodar M, Moskovtsev S, Krawetz SA. Chromatin and extracellular vesicle associated sperm RNAs. Nucleic Acids Res 2015; 43:6847-59. [PMID: 26071953 PMCID: PMC4538811 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkv591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A diverse pool of RNAs remain encapsulated within the transcriptionally silent spermatozoon despite the dramatic reduction in cellular and nuclear volume following cytoplasm/nucleoplasm expulsion. The impact of this pronounced restructuring on the distribution of transcripts inside the sperm essentially remains unknown. To define their compartmentalization, total RNA >100 nt was extracted from sonicated (SS) mouse spermatozoa and detergent demembranated sucrose gradient fractionated (Cs/Tx) sperm heads. Sperm RNAs predominately localized toward the periphery. The corresponding distribution of transcripts and thus localization and complexity were then inferred by RNA-seq. Interestingly, the number of annotated RNAs in the CsTx sperm heads exhibiting reduced peripheral enrichment was restricted. However this included Cabyr, the calcium-binding tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated protein encoded transcript. It is present in murine zygotes prior to the maternal to the zygotic transition yet absent in oocytes, consistent with the delivery of internally positioned sperm-borne RNAs to the embryo. In comparison, transcripts enriched in sonicated sperm contributed to the mitochondria and exosomes along with several nuclear transcripts including the metastasis associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (Malat1) and several small nucleolar RNAs. Their preferential peripheral localization suggests that chromatin remodeling during spermiogenesis is not limited to nucleoproteins as part of the nucleoprotein exchange.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham D Johnson
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Paula Mackie
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, M5G 1N8, Canada
| | - Meritxell Jodar
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, ON, M5G 1E2, Canada
| | - Sergey Moskovtsev
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, M5G 1N8, Canada Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Stephen A Krawetz
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, ON, M5G 1E2, Canada
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19
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Savadi-Shiraz E, Edalatkhah H, Talebi S, Heidari-Vala H, Zandemami M, Pahlavan S, Modarressi MH, Akhondi MM, Paradowska-Dogan A, Sadeghi MR. Quantification of sperm specific mRNA transcripts (PRM1, PRM2
, and TNP2
) in teratozoospermia and normozoospermia: New correlations between mRNA content and morphology of sperm. Mol Reprod Dev 2014; 82:26-35. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elham Savadi-Shiraz
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center; Avicenna Research Institute; ACECR; Tehran Iran
- Department of Urology; Pediatric Urology and Andrology; Section Molecular Andrology; Justus Liebig University; Giessen Germany
| | - Haleh Edalatkhah
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center; Avicenna Research Institute; ACECR; Tehran Iran
| | - Saeed Talebi
- Department of Medical Genetics; Faculty of Medicine; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Hamed Heidari-Vala
- Nanobiotechnology Research Center; Avicenna Research Institute; ACECR; Tehran Iran
| | - Mahdi Zandemami
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center; Avicenna Research Institute; ACECR; Tehran Iran
| | - Somayeh Pahlavan
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center; Avicenna Research Institute; ACECR; Tehran Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Mehdi Akhondi
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center; Avicenna Research Institute; ACECR; Tehran Iran
| | - Agnieszka Paradowska-Dogan
- Department of Urology; Pediatric Urology and Andrology; Section Molecular Andrology; Justus Liebig University; Giessen Germany
| | - Mohammad Reza Sadeghi
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center; Avicenna Research Institute; ACECR; Tehran Iran
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20
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Oehninger S, Franken DR, Ombelet W. Sperm functional tests. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:1528-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.09.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2014] [Revised: 09/27/2014] [Accepted: 09/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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21
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Determining ACTB, ATP5B and RPL32 as optimal reference genes for quantitative RT-PCR studies of cryopreserved stallion semen. Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 149:204-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2013] [Revised: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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22
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Kumar K, Deka D, Singh A, Chattopadhyay P, Dada R. Expression pattern of PRM2, HSP90 and WNT5A in male partners of couples experiencing idiopathic recurrent miscarriages. J Genet 2013; 91:363-6. [PMID: 23271023 DOI: 10.1007/s12041-012-0200-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kishlay Kumar
- Laboratory for Molecular Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110 029, India
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23
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Jodar M, Selvaraju S, Sendler E, Diamond MP, Krawetz SA. The presence, role and clinical use of spermatozoal RNAs. Hum Reprod Update 2013; 19:604-24. [PMID: 23856356 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 233] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatozoa are highly differentiated, transcriptionally inert cells characterized by a compact nucleus with minimal cytoplasm. Nevertheless they contain a suite of unique RNAs that are delivered to oocyte upon fertilization. They are likely integrated as part of many different processes including genome recognition, consolidation-confrontation, early embryonic development and epigenetic transgenerational inherence. Spermatozoal RNAs also provide a window into the developmental history of each sperm thereby providing biomarkers of fertility and pregnancy outcome which are being intensely studied. METHODS Literature searches were performed to review the majority of spermatozoal RNA studies that described potential functions and clinical applications with emphasis on Next-Generation Sequencing. Human, mouse, bovine and stallion were compared as their distribution and composition of spermatozoal RNAs, using these techniques, have been described. RESULTS Comparisons highlighted the complexity of the population of spermatozoal RNAs that comprises rRNA, mRNA and both large and small non-coding RNAs. RNA-seq analysis has revealed that only a fraction of the larger RNAs retain their structure. While rRNAs are the most abundant and are highly fragmented, ensuring a translationally quiescent state, other RNAs including some mRNAs retain their functional potential, thereby increasing the opportunity for regulatory interactions. Abundant small non-coding RNAs retained in spermatozoa include miRNAs and piRNAs. Some, like miR-34c are essential to the early embryo development required for the first cellular division. Others like the piRNAs are likely part of the genomic dance of confrontation and consolidation. Other non-coding spermatozoal RNAs include transposable elements, annotated lnc-RNAs, intronic retained elements, exonic elements, chromatin-associated RNAs, small-nuclear ILF3/NF30 associated RNAs, quiescent RNAs, mse-tRNAs and YRNAs. Some non-coding RNAs are known to act as epigenetic modifiers, inducing histone modifications and DNA methylation, perhaps playing a role in transgenerational epigenetic inherence. Transcript profiling holds considerable potential for the discovery of fertility biomarkers for both agriculture and human medicine. Comparing the differential RNA profiles of infertile and fertile individuals as well as assessing species similarities, should resolve the regulatory pathways contributing to male factor infertility. CONCLUSIONS Dad delivers a complex population of RNAs to the oocyte at fertilization that likely influences fertilization, embryo development, the phenotype of the offspring and possibly future generations. Development is continuing on the use of spermatozoal RNA profiles as phenotypic markers of male factor status for use as clinical diagnostics of the father's contribution to the birth of a healthy child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meritxell Jodar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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24
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Das PJ, McCarthy F, Vishnoi M, Paria N, Gresham C, Li G, Kachroo P, Sudderth AK, Teague S, Love CC, Varner DD, Chowdhary BP, Raudsepp T. Stallion sperm transcriptome comprises functionally coherent coding and regulatory RNAs as revealed by microarray analysis and RNA-seq. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56535. [PMID: 23409192 PMCID: PMC3569414 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Mature mammalian sperm contain a complex population of RNAs some of which might regulate spermatogenesis while others probably play a role in fertilization and early development. Due to this limited knowledge, the biological functions of sperm RNAs remain enigmatic. Here we report the first characterization of the global transcriptome of the sperm of fertile stallions. The findings improved understanding of the biological significance of sperm RNAs which in turn will allow the discovery of sperm-based biomarkers for stallion fertility. The stallion sperm transcriptome was interrogated by analyzing sperm and testes RNA on a 21,000-element equine whole-genome oligoarray and by RNA-seq. Microarray analysis revealed 6,761 transcripts in the sperm, of which 165 were sperm-enriched, and 155 were differentially expressed between the sperm and testes. Next, 70 million raw reads were generated by RNA-seq of which 50% could be aligned with the horse reference genome. A total of 19,257 sequence tags were mapped to all horse chromosomes and the mitochondrial genome. The highest density of mapped transcripts was in gene-rich ECA11, 12 and 13, and the lowest in gene-poor ECA9 and X; 7 gene transcripts originated from ECAY. Structural annotation aligned sperm transcripts with 4,504 known horse and/or human genes, rRNAs and 82 miRNAs, whereas 13,354 sequence tags remained anonymous. The data were aligned with selected equine gene models to identify additional exons and splice variants. Gene Ontology annotations showed that sperm transcripts were associated with molecular processes (chemoattractant-activated signal transduction, ion transport) and cellular components (membranes and vesicles) related to known sperm functions at fertilization, while some messenger and micro RNAs might be critical for early development. The findings suggest that the rich repertoire of coding and non-coding RNAs in stallion sperm is not a random remnant from spermatogenesis in testes but a selectively retained and functionally coherent collection of RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranab J Das
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
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25
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Card CJ, Anderson EJ, Zamberlan S, Krieger KE, Kaproth M, Sartini BL. Cryopreserved Bovine Spermatozoal Transcript Profile as Revealed by High-Throughput Ribonucleic Acid Sequencing1. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:49. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.103788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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26
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Amaral A, Ramalho-Santos J. The male gamete is not a somatic cell--the possible meaning of varying sperm RNA levels. Antioxid Redox Signal 2013; 18:179-80. [PMID: 22703389 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2012.4715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Amaral
- Biology of Reproduction and Human Fertility Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Largo Marquês de Pombal, Coimbra, Portugal
- Human Genetics Research Group, IDIBAPS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Clinic Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Human Fertility Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Largo Marquês de Pombal, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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27
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Kumar M, Kumar K, Jain S, Hassan T, Dada R. Novel insights into the genetic and epigenetic paternal contribution to the human embryo. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2013; 68 Suppl 1:5-14. [PMID: 23503950 PMCID: PMC3583177 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2013(sup01)02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The integrity of the sperm genome and epigenome are critical for normal embryonic development. The advent of assisted reproductive technology has led to an increased understanding of the role of sperm in fertilization and embryogenesis. During fertilization, the sperm transmits not only nuclear DNA to the oocyte but also activation factor, centrosomes, and a host of messenger RNA and microRNAs. This complex complement of microRNAs and other non-coding RNAs is believed to modify important post-fertilization events. Thus, the health of the sperm genome and epigenome is critical for improving assisted conception rates and the birth of healthy offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar
- Laboratory for Molecular Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India
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28
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Bonache S, Mata A, Ramos MD, Bassas L, Larriba S. Sperm gene expression profile is related to pregnancy rate after insemination and is predictive of low fecundity in normozoospermic men. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:1556-67. [PMID: 22447625 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assessment of male fertility is traditionally based on microscopic evaluation of semen. However, the classical semen parameters do not adequately reflect sperm function, and their clinical value in predicting fertility is limited. We hypothesize that the sperm expression profile could reflect the fertilizing quality of spermatozoa and could be more informative for predicting the in vivo reproductive fitness of men with normal semen parameters. METHODS Sperm gene expression patterns of 68 normozoospermic donors (43 Phase I and 25 Phase II), used for therapeutic IUI, were analysed via TaqMan Arrays. RESULTS Significant differences in the expression of individual genes were observed between groups of donors with the lowest and highest pregnancy rates (PRs) after IUI. Additionally, we have developed a molecular means to classify the fertility status of semen donors for IUI based on the expression signature of four genes. In the Phase I study, this model had 90% sensitivity and 97% specificity for discriminating donors resulting in low PRs (cut-off value: <13.6%), far better than that obtained from the combination of sperm parameters. The translation of the model was validated in Phase II donors resulting in a sensitivity of 71.5% and a specificity of 78%. CONCLUSIONS Our findings contribute to the search for the most valuable genetic markers which are potentially useful as tools for predicting pregnancy. Our expression model could complement classical semen analysis in order to identify sperm donors with a less favourable IUI reproductive outcome despite having normal semen parameters. It may also be useful for the study of sperm function in couples with unexplained infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Bonache
- Human Molecular Genetics Group, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
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29
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide a focused review of the scientific literature pertaining to spermatozoal RNA. DESIGN Review of the literature and appraisal of relevant articles. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Infertile male. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Spermatozoal RNAs as potential epigenetic modifiers in early embryo development and as clinical markers of male infertility. RESULT(S) The nucleus of mature spermatozoa contains a complex population of mRNAs and miRNAs despite its transcriptionally inert state. CONCLUSION(S) A specific set of functional RNAs are delivered into oocytes during fertilization and are thought to contribute extragenomically to early embryonic development. Even if spermatozoal RNAs is merely residual, it still has the potential to greatly improve the investigative and diagnostic potential of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshio Hamatani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
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30
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Fischer BE, Wasbrough E, Meadows LA, Randlet O, Dorus S, Karr TL, Russell S. Conserved properties of Drosophila and human spermatozoal mRNA repertoires. Proc Biol Sci 2012; 279:2636-44. [PMID: 22378807 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2012.0153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
It is now well established that mature mammalian spermatozoa carry a population of mRNA molecules, at least some of which are transferred to the oocyte at fertilization, however, their function remains largely unclear. To shed light on the evolutionary conservation of this feature of sperm biology, we analysed highly purified populations of mature sperm from the fruitfly, Drosophila melanogaster. As with mammalian sperm, we found a consistently enriched population of mRNA molecules that are unlikely to be derived from contaminating somatic cells or immature sperm. Using tagged transcripts for three of the spermatozoal mRNAs, we demonstrate that they are transferred to the oocyte at fertilization and can be detected before, and at least until, the onset of zygotic gene expression. We find a remarkable conservation in the functional annotations associated with fly and human spermatozoal mRNAs, in particular, a highly significant enrichment for transcripts encoding ribosomal proteins (RPs). The substantial functional coherence of spermatozoal transcripts in humans and the fly opens the possibility of using the power of Drosophila genetics to address the function of this enigmatic class of molecules in sperm and in the oocyte following fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina E Fischer
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK
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Jodar M, Kalko S, Castillo J, Ballescà JL, Oliva R. Differential RNAs in the sperm cells of asthenozoospermic patients. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:1431-8. [PMID: 22353264 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alterations in RNAs present in sperm have been identified using microarrays in teratozoospermic patients and in other types of infertile patients. However, so far, there have been no reports on using microarrays to determine the RNA content of sperm from asthenozoospermic patients. METHODS We started the present project with the goal of characterizing the RNA abundance in the sperm cells of asthenozoospermic patients when compared with controls. To reach this objective, we initially selected four normal fertile donors and four asthenozoospermic infertile patients. Equal amounts of RNA were extracted from the sperm samples, subjected to different quality controls and hybridized to the Affymetrix U133 Plus version 2 arrays. RESULTS Several transcripts were identified that were present in different abundance in patients compared with controls. Subsequently, we validated the differential expression of three of the detected transcripts (ANXA2, BRD2 and OAZ3), using real-time PCR in a larger set of samples. A positive correlation between the expression of these transcripts and progressive motility was observed. CONCLUSIONS The sperm cells of asthenozoospermic patients contain an altered amount of some RNAs as detected using microarray analysis and subsequently validated using real-time PCR. These results open up the possibility to investigate the implication of these genes in the pathogenic mechanisms in asthenozoospermia and to consider their potential utility as infertility biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meritxell Jodar
- Human Genetics Research Group, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Hospital Clínic, C/Casanova 143, Barcelona 08036, Spain
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De Gottardi A, Seijo S, Milá M, Alvarez MI, Bruguera M, Abraldes JG, Bosch J, García-Pagán JC. Bone morphogenetic protein receptor 2 in patients with idiopathic portal hypertension. J Cell Mol Med 2011; 16:2017-21. [PMID: 22129439 PMCID: PMC3822972 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2011.01496.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In idiopathic portal hypertension (IPH) typical vascular lesions are present in the branches of the portal vein or in the perisinusoidal area of the liver. Similar histological alterations have been reported in the pulmonary vasculature of patients with idiopathic pulmonary artery hypertension (IPAH). As IPAH is associated with mutations of the bone morphogenetic protein receptor 2 (BMPR2) gene, the aim of this study was to investigate whether this association might also be found in patients with IPH. Twenty-three samples belonging to 21 unrelated caucasian patients with IPH followed in the hepatic haemodynamic laboratory of the Hospital Clinic in Barcelona were included in the study. All patients were studied for the entire open reading frame and splice site of the BMPR2 gene by direct sequencing and multiple ligation probe amplification (MLPA) in order to detect large deletions/duplications. None of the 23 patients had pulmonary artery hypertension. Four patients presented one single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in intron 5, four patients had a SNP in exon 12 and a SNP in exon 1 was found in two cases. Two patients had both intron 5 and exon 12 polymorphisms. All SNPs were previously described. Except for these three SNPs, neither mutations nor rearrangements have been identified in the BMPR2 gene in this population. We did not detect mutations or rearrangements in the coding region of the BMPR2 gene in our patients with IPH. These findings suggest that, in contrast to IPAH, mutations in BMPR2 are not involved in the pathogenesis of IPH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea De Gottardi
- Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Institut d'Investigacions Biomédiques August Pi i Sunyer, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Johnson GD, Sendler E, Lalancette C, Hauser R, Diamond MP, Krawetz SA. Cleavage of rRNA ensures translational cessation in sperm at fertilization. Mol Hum Reprod 2011; 17:721-6. [PMID: 21831882 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gar054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Intact ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs) comprise the majority of somatic transcripts, yet appear conspicuously absent in spermatozoa, perhaps reflecting cytoplasmic expulsion during spermatogenesis. To discern their fate, total RNA retained in mature spermatozoa from three fertile donors was characterized by Next Generation Sequencing. In all samples, >75% of total sequence reads aligned to rRNAs. The distribution of reads along the length of these transcripts exhibited a high degree of non-uniformity that was reiterated between donors. The coverage of sequencing reads was inversely correlated with guanine-cytosine (GC)-richness such that sequences greater than ∼70% GC were virtually absent in all sperm RNA samples. To confirm the loss of sequence, the relative abundance of specific regions of the 28S transcripts in sperm was established by 7-Deaza-2'-deoxy-guanosine-5'-triphosphate RT-PCR. The inability to amplify specific regions of the 28S sequence from sperm despite the abundant representation of this transcript in the sequencing libraries demonstrates that approximately three-quarters of RNA retained in the mature male gamete are products of rRNA fragmentation. Hence, cleavage (not expulsion of the RNA component of the translational machinery) is responsible for preventing spurious translation following spermiogenesis. These results highlight the potential importance of those transcripts, including many mRNAs, which evade fragmentation and remain intact when sperm are delivered at fertilization. Sequencing data are deposited in GEO as: GSE29160.
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Affiliation(s)
- G D Johnson
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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Zhou DX, Huang XC, Wang XF, Zhang J, Wang H, Tian Z. Association study of human leucocyte antigen-A gene with idiopathic male infertility in Han population of China. Andrologia 2011; 44 Suppl 1:213-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2011.01166.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
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Oehninger S. Clinical management of male infertility in assisted reproduction: ICSI and beyond. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 34:e319-29. [PMID: 21651569 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2011.01143.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The advent of in vitro fertilization and its augmentation with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has allowed a large number of couples suffering from moderate to severe male infertility, and also presenting with female pathologies, to achieve their reproductive dreams. Notwithstanding the existence of fundamental questions about the pathophysiological mechanisms leading to sperm dysfunction, and still unanswered concerns about health risks following ICSI, it appears that overall ICSI is safe and here to stay. Although on one hand ICSI possibly hampered advances of the knowledge in some areas of gamete biology and interaction, on the other it definitely gave impulse to studies designed to unveil the sperm contributions during and beyond fertilization, including the normalcy of the DNA/chromatin as well as molecular mechanisms of genetic/epigenetic control and nuclear organization status. In all, almost entering the fourth decade of assisted reproductive technologies, we should continue monitoring the safety of the technique and long-term development of offspring, whereas at the same time prioritizing areas of research addressing these fundamental questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Oehninger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA.
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Pacheco SE, Houseman EA, Christensen BC, Marsit CJ, Kelsey KT, Sigman M, Boekelheide K. Integrative DNA methylation and gene expression analyses identify DNA packaging and epigenetic regulatory genes associated with low motility sperm. PLoS One 2011; 6:e20280. [PMID: 21674046 PMCID: PMC3107223 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0020280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2011] [Accepted: 04/23/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In previous studies using candidate gene approaches, low sperm count (oligospermia) has been associated with altered sperm mRNA content and DNA methylation in both imprinted and non-imprinted genes. We performed a genome-wide analysis of sperm DNA methylation and mRNA content to test for associations with sperm function. Methods and Results Sperm DNA and mRNA were isolated from 21 men with a range of semen parameters presenting to a tertiary male reproductive health clinic. DNA methylation was measured with the Illumina Infinium array at 27,578 CpG loci. Unsupervised clustering of methylation data differentiated the 21 sperm samples by their motility values. Recursively partitioned mixture modeling (RPMM) of methylation data resulted in four distinct methylation profiles that were significantly associated with sperm motility (P = 0.01). Linear models of microarray analysis (LIMMA) was performed based on motility and identified 9,189 CpG loci with significantly altered methylation (Q<0.05) in the low motility samples. In addition, the majority of these disrupted CpG loci (80%) were hypomethylated. Of the aberrantly methylated CpGs, 194 were associated with imprinted genes and were almost equally distributed into hypermethylated (predominantly paternally expressed) and hypomethylated (predominantly maternally expressed) groups. Sperm mRNA was measured with the Human Gene 1.0 ST Affymetrix GeneChip Array. LIMMA analysis identified 20 candidate transcripts as differentially present in low motility sperm, including HDAC1 (NCBI 3065), SIRT3 (NCBI 23410), and DNMT3A (NCBI 1788). There was a trend among altered expression of these epigenetic regulatory genes and RPMM DNA methylation class. Conclusions Using integrative genome-wide approaches we identified CpG methylation profiles and mRNA alterations associated with low sperm motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara E. Pacheco
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - E. Andres Houseman
- Department of Community Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Brock C. Christensen
- Department of Community Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Carmen J. Marsit
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Karl T. Kelsey
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Community Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Mark Sigman
- Division of Urology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Kim Boekelheide
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Cappallo-Obermann H, Schulze W, Jastrow H, Baukloh V, Spiess AN. Highly purified spermatozoal RNA obtained by a novel method indicates an unusual 28S/18S rRNA ratio and suggests impaired ribosome assembly. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 17:669-78. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gar037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
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Borges F, Pereira PA, Slotkin RK, Martienssen RA, Becker JD. MicroRNA activity in the Arabidopsis male germline. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2011; 62:1611-20. [PMID: 21357774 PMCID: PMC5536363 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erq452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2010] [Revised: 12/13/2010] [Accepted: 12/15/2010] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Most of the core proteins involved in the microRNA (miRNA) pathway in plants have been identified, and almost simultaneously hundreds of miRNA sequences processed in the Arabidopsis sporophyte have been discovered by exploiting next-generation sequencing technologies. However, there is very limited understanding about potentially distinct mechanisms of post-transcriptional regulation between different cell lineages. In this review the focus is on the Arabidopsis male gametophyte (pollen), where the germline differentiates after meiosis giving rise to the male gametes. Based on comparative analysis of miRNAs identified in sperm cells by in-depth sequencing, their possible functions during germ cell specification and beyond fertilization are discussed. In addition, 25 potentially novel miRNAs processed in sperm cells and pollen were identified, as well as enriched variations in the sequence length of known miRNAs, which might indicate subfunctionalization by association with a putative germline-specific Argonaute complex. ARGONAUTE 5 (AGO5), by close homology to AGO1 and localizing preferentially to the sperm cell cytoplasm in mature pollen, may be part of such a complex.
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Johnson GD, Lalancette C, Linnemann AK, Leduc F, Boissonneault G, Krawetz SA. The sperm nucleus: chromatin, RNA, and the nuclear matrix. Reproduction 2011; 141:21-36. [PMID: 20876223 PMCID: PMC5358669 DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Within the sperm nucleus, the paternal genome remains functionally inert and protected following protamination. This is marked by a structural morphogenesis that is heralded by a striking reduction in nuclear volume. Despite these changes, both human and mouse spermatozoa maintain low levels of nucleosomes that appear non-randomly distributed throughout the genome. These regions may be necessary for organizing higher order genomic structure through interactions with the nuclear matrix. The promoters of this transcriptionally quiescent genome are differentially marked by modified histones that may poise downstream epigenetic effects. This notion is supported by increasing evidence that the embryo inherits these differing levels of chromatin organization. In concert with the suite of RNAs retained in the mature sperm, they may synergistically interact to direct early embryonic gene expression. Irrespective, these features reflect the transcriptional history of spermatogenic differentiation. As such, they may soon be utilized as clinical markers of male fertility. In this review, we explore and discuss how this may be orchestrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham D. Johnson
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
| | - Claudia Lalancette
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
| | - Amelia K. Linnemann
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
| | - Frédéric Leduc
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada J1H 5N4
| | - Guylain Boissonneault
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada J1H 5N4
| | - Stephen A. Krawetz
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
- Institute for Scientific Computing, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
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Dahl M, Hviid TVF. Human leucocyte antigen class Ib molecules in pregnancy success and early pregnancy loss. Hum Reprod Update 2011; 18:92-109. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmr043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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The making of abnormal spermatozoa: cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying pathological spermiogenesis. Cell Tissue Res 2010; 341:349-57. [PMID: 20596874 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-010-1007-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2010] [Accepted: 06/09/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Fertilization in mammals occurs via a series of well-defined events in the secluded environment of the female reproductive tract. The mode of selection of the fertilizing spermatozoon nevertheless remains unknown. As has become evident during in vitro fertilization by sperm microinjection into the oocyte, abnormal spermatozoa can successfully fertilize oocytes. Under these extreme conditions, post-fertilization events, early embryonic development and implantation are significantly compromised indicating that the contribution of spermatozoa extends beyond sperm penetration. Microscopic identification of normal spermatozoa is a well-standardized procedure but insights into the mechanisms that lead to aberrant sperm differentiation and into the subcellular nature of sperm abnormalities have only recently begun to be obtained. The spermatozoon is the result of a complex development in which spermatid organelles give rise to various structural components with characteristic functions. Similar to other differentiated cells, the spermatozoon has a specific pathology that is most clearly identified by ultrastructural evaluation coupled with immunocytochemistry and molecular techniques. This multidisciplinary approach allows the precise characterization of sperm abnormalities, including structural, molecular and functional aspects. We summarize here studies of the physiopathology of spermiogenesis in two abnormal sperm phenotypes of infertile men: dysplasia of the fibrous sheath and acephalic spermatozoa/abnormal head-tail attachment. The characterization of the abnormalities of the tail cytoskeleton and centrioles has uncovered aspects of the subcellular basis of pathological spermiogenesis, has suggested experimental approaches to explore the nature of these anomalies and has opened the way for genetic studies that will ultimately lead to the design of the therapeutic tools of the future.
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Segers I, Adriaenssens T, Ozturk E, Smitz J. Acquisition and loss of oocyte meiotic and developmental competence during in vitro antral follicle growth in mouse. Fertil Steril 2010; 93:2695-700. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2009] [Revised: 11/16/2009] [Accepted: 11/17/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Ha CT, Wu JA, Irmak S, Lisboa FA, Dizon AM, Warren JW, Ergun S, Dveksler GS. Human pregnancy specific beta-1-glycoprotein 1 (PSG1) has a potential role in placental vascular morphogenesis. Biol Reprod 2010; 83:27-35. [PMID: 20335639 PMCID: PMC2888962 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.082412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies suggest that human pregnancy specific beta-1-glycoproteins (PSGs) play immunomodulatory roles during pregnancy; however, other possible functions of PSGs have yet to be explored. We have observed that PSGs induce transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1), which among its other diverse functions inhibits T-cell function and has proangiogenic properties. The present study investigates a potential role for PSG1, the most abundant PSG in maternal serum, as a possible inducer of proangiogenic growth factors known to play an important role in establishment of the vasculature at the maternal-fetal interface. To this end, we measured TGFB1, vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) A and C, and placental growth factor (PGF) protein levels in several cell types after PSG1 treatment. In addition, tube formation and wound healing assays were performed to investigate a possible direct interaction between PSG1 and endothelial cells. PSG1 induced up-regulation of both TGFB1 and VEGFA in human monocytes, macrophages, and two human extravillous trophoblast cell lines. We did not observe induction of VEGFC or PGF by PSG1 in any of the cells tested. PSG1 treatment resulted in endothelial tube formation in the presence and absence of VEGFA. Site-directed mutagenesis was performed to map the essential regions within the N-domain of PSG1 required for functional activity. We found that the aspartic acid at position 95, previously believed to be required for binding of PSGs to cells, is not required for PSG1 activity but that the amino acids implicated in the formation of a salt bridge within the N-domain are essential for PSG1 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cam T Ha
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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Clark DA, Chaouat G, Wong K, Gorczynski RM, Kinsky R. REVIEW ARTICLE: Tolerance Mechanisms in Pregnancy: A Reappraisal of the Role of Class I Paternal MHC Antigens*. Am J Reprod Immunol 2009; 63:93-103. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2009.00774.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Abstract
The profound architectural changes that transform spermatids into spermatozoa result in a high degree of DNA packaging within the sperm head. However, the mature sperm chromatin that harbors imprinted genes exhibits a dual nucleoprotamine/nucleohistone structure with DNase-sensitive regions, which could be implicated in the establishment of efficient epigenetic information in the developing embryo. Despite its apparent transcriptionally inert state, the sperm nucleus contains diverse RNA populations, mRNAs, antisense and miRNAs, that have been transcribed throughout spermatogenesis. There is also an endogenous reverse transcriptase that may be activated under certain circumstances. It is now commonly accepted that sperm can deliver some RNAs to the ovocyte at fertilization. This review presents potential links between male-specific genomic imprinting, chromatin organization, and the presence of diverse RNA populations within the sperm nucleus and discusses the functional significance of these RNAs in the spermatozoon itself and in the early embryo following fertilization. Some recent data are provided, supporting the view that analyzing the profile of spermatozoal RNAs could be useful for assessment of male fertility.
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Barroso G, Valdespin C, Vega E, Kershenovich R, Avila R, Avendaño C, Oehninger S. Developmental sperm contributions: fertilization and beyond. Fertil Steril 2009; 92:835-848. [PMID: 19631936 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.06.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2008] [Revised: 06/16/2009] [Accepted: 06/16/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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