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Banchi P, Spanoghe L, Maes D, Morrell J, Van Soom A. The reproductive microbiome in dogs: Friend or foe? Vet J 2024; 304:106100. [PMID: 38484870 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2024.106100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
The microbiome of the reproductive tract is an area of research in full development. Specifically, the microbiome may be involved in reproductive health, disease, and pregnancy outcomes, as has been shown in humans and animals, including dogs. The aim of the present review was to summarize current knowledge on the microbiome of the canine reproductive tract, to expose the controversial role that some bacterial agents may play in canine subfertility, and to highlight future research perspectives. This review discussed whether the use of antimicrobials in dogs is appropriate to increase reproductive performance and to treat subfertility without proper diagnosis, and the possible use of probiotics to modulate the reproductive canine microbiome. Finally, we indicate areas in which scientific knowledge is currently lacking, and could be promising directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penelope Banchi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium; Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco 10095, Italy.
| | - Lotte Spanoghe
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium
| | - Dominiek Maes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium
| | - Jane Morrell
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium
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2
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Jendraszak M, Skibińska I, Kotwicka M, Andrusiewicz M. The elusive male microbiome: revealing the link between the genital microbiota and fertility. Critical review and future perspectives. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2024:1-29. [PMID: 38523477 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2024.2331489] [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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
There is a growing focus on understanding the role of the male microbiome in fertility issues. Although research on the bacterial communities within the male reproductive system is in its initial phases, recent discoveries highlight notable variations in the microbiome's composition and abundance across distinct anatomical regions like the skin, foreskin, urethra, and coronary sulcus. To assess the relationship between male genitourinary microbiome and reproduction, we queried various databases, including MEDLINE (available via PubMed), SCOPUS, and Web of Science to obtain evidence-based data. The literature search was conducted using the following terms "gut/intestines microbiome," "genitourinary system microbiome," "microbiome and female/male infertility," "external genital tract microbiome," "internal genital tract microbiome," and "semen microbiome." Fifty-one relevant papers were analyzed, and eleven were strictly semen quality or male fertility related. The male microbiome, especially in the accessory glands like the prostate, seminal vesicles, and bulbourethral glands, has garnered significant interest because of its potential link to male fertility and reproduction. Studies have also found differences in bacterial diversity present in the testicular tissue of normozoospermic men compared to azoospermic suggesting a possible role of bacterial dysbiosis and reproduction. Correlation between the bacterial taxa in the genital microbiota of sexual partners has also been found, and sexual activity can influence the composition of the urogenital microbiota. Exploring the microbial world within the male reproductive system and its influence on fertility opens doors to developing ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat infertility. The present work emphasizes the importance of using consistent methods, conducting long-term studies, and deepening our understanding of how the reproductive tract microbiome works. This helps make research comparable, pinpoint potential interventions, and smoothly apply microbiome insights to real-world clinical practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Jendraszak
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Izabela Skibińska
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Kotwicka
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Mirosław Andrusiewicz
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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3
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Banchi P, Bertolotti L, Spanoghe L, Ali Hassan H, Lannoo J, Domain G, Henzel KS, Gaillard V, Rota A, Van Soom A. Characterization of the semen microbiota of healthy stud dogs using 16S RNA sequencing. Theriogenology 2024; 216:1-7. [PMID: 38141548 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
The reproductive microbiota of male dogs has never been investigated using culture-independent sequencing techniques. The purpose of the present study was to get seminal knowledge on the microbiota of the ejaculate. Specifically, factors as the fraction of the ejaculate, the sperm quality (normospermia, teratozoospermia), and the living environment were evaluated. The sperm-rich and the prostatic fractions of the ejaculate were collected from healthy stud dogs. Following the sperm analysis, samples from twenty animals (normospermic n = 10 and teratozoospermic n = 10) were stored at - 80 °C until further processing including DNA extraction and 16S rRNA sequencing. Alpha- (Shannon index) and beta- (Bray-Curtis, Unweighted UniFrac) diversities were assessed and compared (PERMANOVA) based on the group of samples (biological samples from the ejaculate and controls), the fraction of the ejaculate (sperm-rich and prostatic fractions), the animal group (normospermia and teratozoospermia), and the living environment of the animal (kennel or pet living in-house). The most abundant bacterial phyla in canine semen samples were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria. Overall, the dominant bacterial family was that of Pasteurellaceae The genus Mycoplasma was never detected. No differences in terms of bacterial composition were found based on the fraction of the ejaculate and based on the animal group (P > 0.05). On the other hand, differences in alpha and beta diversities were highlighted based on the living environment (P = 0.001). Overall, the results of the present study provide preliminary insights on dog semen microbiota, opening a new chapter in the field of canine andrology. Our results suggest that the environment may play a role in influencing the reproductive microbiota of male dogs and that the prostatic fraction of the ejaculate can be used for further research as a representative of the semen microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Banchi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium; Department of Veterinary Science, University of Torino, 10095, Grugliasco, Italy.
| | - L Bertolotti
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Torino, 10095, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - L Spanoghe
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - H Ali Hassan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - J Lannoo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - G Domain
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - K S Henzel
- Royal Canin Research Center, 30470, Aimargues, France
| | - V Gaillard
- Royal Canin Research Center, 30470, Aimargues, France
| | - A Rota
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Torino, 10095, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - A Van Soom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
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Ashonibare VJ, Akorede BA, Ashonibare PJ, Akhigbe TM, Akhigbe RE. Gut microbiota-gonadal axis: the impact of gut microbiota on reproductive functions. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1346035. [PMID: 38482009 PMCID: PMC10933031 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1346035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The influence of gut microbiota on physiological processes is rapidly gaining attention globally. Despite being under-studied, there are available data demonstrating a gut microbiota-gonadal cross-talk, and the importance of this axis in reproduction. This study reviews the impacts of gut microbiota on reproduction. In addition, the possible mechanisms by which gut microbiota modulates male and female reproduction are presented. Databases, including Embase, Google scholar, Pubmed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science, were explored using relevant key words. Findings showed that gut microbiota promotes gonadal functions by modulating the circulating levels of steroid sex hormones, insulin sensitivity, immune system, and gonadal microbiota. Gut microbiota also alters ROS generation and the activation of cytokine accumulation. In conclusion, available data demonstrate the existence of a gut microbiota-gonadal axis, and role of this axis on gonadal functions. However, majority of the data were compelling evidences from animal studies with a great dearth of human data. Therefore, human studies validating the reports of experimental studies using animal models are important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victory J. Ashonibare
- Department of Infection Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Bolaji A. Akorede
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, United States
| | - Precious J. Ashonibare
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Tunmise M. Akhigbe
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
- Breeding and Genetic Unit, Department of Agronomy, Osun State University, Ejigbo, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Roland Eghoghosoa Akhigbe
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
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Corral-Vazquez C, Blanco J, Sarrate Z, Anton E. Unraveling the Intricacies of the Seminal Microbiome and Its Impact on Human Fertility. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:150. [PMID: 38534419 DOI: 10.3390/biology13030150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Although the microbial communities from seminal fluid were an unexplored field some decades ago, their characteristics and potential roles are gradually coming to light. Therefore, a complex and specific microbiome population with commensal niches and fluctuating species has started to be revealed. In fact, certain clusters of bacteria have been associated with fertility and health, while the outgrowth of several species is potentially correlated with infertility indicators. This constitutes a compelling reason for outlining the external elements that may induce changes in the seminal microbiome composition, like lifestyle factors, gut microbiota, pathologies, prebiotics, and probiotics. In this review, we summarize the main findings about seminal microbiome, its origins and composition, its relationship with fertility, health, and influence factors, while reminding readers of the limitations and advantages introduced from technical variabilities during the experimental procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Corral-Vazquez
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Joan Blanco
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Zaida Sarrate
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Ester Anton
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
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Neto FTL, Viana MC, Cariati F, Conforti A, Alviggi C, Esteves SC. Effect of environmental factors on seminal microbiome and impact on sperm quality. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1348186. [PMID: 38455659 PMCID: PMC10918436 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1348186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This review provides a comprehensive overview of the existing research on the seminal microbiome and its association with male infertility, while also highlighting areas that warrant further investigation. Methods A narrative review was conducted, encompassing all relevant studies published between 1980-2023 on the male reproductive tract microbiome in humans. This review considered studies utilizing culture-based, polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based, and next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based methodologies to analyze the microbiome. Data extraction encompassed sample types (semen or testicular tissue), study designs, participant characteristics, employed techniques, and critical findings. Results We included 37 studies comprising 9,310 participants. Among these, 16 studies used culture-based methods, 16 utilized NGS, and five employed a combination of methods for microorganism identification. Notably, none of the studies assessed fungi or viruses. All NGS-based studies identified the presence of bacteria in all semen samples. Two notable characteristics of the seminal microbiome were observed: substantial variability in species composition among individuals and the formation of microbial communities with a dominant species. Studies examining the testicular microbiome revealed that the testicular compartment is not sterile. Interestingly, sexually active couples shared 56% of predominant genera, and among couples with positive cultures in both partners, 61% of them shared at least one genital pathogen. In couples with infertility of known causes, there was an overlap in bacterial composition between the seminal and vaginal microbiomes, featuring an increased prevalence of Staphylococcus and Streptococcus genera. Furthermore, the seminal microbiome had discernible effects on reproductive outcomes. However, bacteria in IVF culture media did not seem to impact pregnancy rates. Conclusion Existing literature underscores that various genera of bacteria colonize the male reproductive tract. These organisms do not exist independently; instead, they play a pivotal role in regulating functions and maintaining hemostasis. Future research should prioritize longitudinal and prospective studies and investigations into the influence of infertility causes and commonly prescribed medication to enhance our understanding of the seminal microbiota's role in reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marina C. Viana
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Federica Cariati
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples, Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sandro C. Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Davies R, Minhas S, Jayasena CN. Next-Generation Sequencing to Elucidate the Semen Microbiome in Male Reproductive Disorders. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 60:25. [PMID: 38256286 PMCID: PMC10819355 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Mean sperm counts are declining at an accelerated rate and infertility is increasingly becoming a public health concern. It is now understood that human semen, previously considered to be sterile, harbours its own specific microbiome. Via activated leucocytes and the generation of reactive oxygen species, bacteria have the capability of evoking an immune response which may lead to sperm damage. Men with infertility have higher rates of both reactive oxygen species and sperm DNA damage. Due to the lack of sensitivity of routine culture and PCR-based methods, next-generation sequencing technology is being employed to characterise the seminal microbiome. There is a mounting body of studies that share a number of similarities but also a great range of conflicting findings. A lack of stringent decontamination procedures, small sample sizes and heterogeneity in other aspects of methodology makes it difficult to draw firm conclusions from these studies. However, various themes have emerged and evidence of highly conserved clusters of common bacteria can be seen. Depletion or over-representation of specific bacteria may be associated with aberrations in traditional and functional seminal parameters. Currently, the evidence is too limited to inform clinical practice and larger studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhianna Davies
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W12 0HS, UK;
| | - Suks Minhas
- Department of Urology, Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London W6 8RF, UK;
| | - Channa N. Jayasena
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W12 0HS, UK;
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Cao KX, Deng ZC, Liu M, Huang YX, Yang JC, Sun LH. Heat Stress Impairs Male Reproductive System with Potential Disruption of Retinol Metabolism and Microbial Balance in the Testis of Mice. J Nutr 2023; 153:3373-3381. [PMID: 37923224 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heat stress (HS) has a harmful impact on the male reproductive system, primarily by reducing the sperm quality. The testicular microenvironment plays an important role in sperm quality. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore the underlying mechanism by which HS impairs the male reproductive system through the testicular microenvironment. METHODS Ten-week-old male mice (n = 8 mice/group) were maintained at a normal temperature (25°C, control) or subjected to HS (38°C for 2 h each day, HS) for 2 wk. The epididymides and testes were collected at week 2 to determine sperm quality, histopathology, retinol concentration, the expression of retinol metabolism-related genes, and the testicular microbiome. The testicular microbiome profiles were analyzed using biostatistics and bioinformatics; other data were analyzed using a 2-sided Student's t test. RESULTS Compared with the control, HS reduced (P < 0.05) sperm count (42.4%) and motility (97.7%) and disrupted the integrity of the blood-testis barrier. Testicular microbial profiling analysis revealed that HS increased the abundance of the genera Asticcacaulis, Enhydrobacter, and Stenotrophomonas (P < 0.05) and decreased the abundance of the genera Enterococcus and Pleomorphomonas (P < 0.05). Notably, the abundance of Asticcacaulis spp. showed a significant negative correlation with sperm count (P < 0.001) and sperm motility (P < 0.001). Moreover, Asticcacaulis spp. correlated significantly with most blood differential metabolites, particularly retinol (P < 0.05). Compared with the control, HS increased serum retinol concentrations (25.3%) but decreased the testis retinol concentration by 23.7%. Meanwhile, HS downregulated (P < 0.05) the expression of 2 genes (STRA6 and RDH10) and a protein (RDH10) involved in retinol metabolism by 27.3%-36.6% in the testis compared with the control. CONCLUSIONS HS reduced sperm quality, mainly because of an imbalance in the testicular microenvironment potentially caused by an increase in Asticcacaulis spp. and disturbed retinol metabolism. These findings may offer new strategies for improving male reproductive capacity under HS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Xin Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhang-Chao Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Meng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yu-Xuan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jia-Cheng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Lv-Hui Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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Porto JG, Arbelaez MCS, Pena B, Khandekar A, Malpani A, Nahar B, Punnen S, Ritch CR, Gonzalgo ML, Parekh DJ, Marcovich R, Shah HN. The Influence of the Microbiome on Urological Malignancies: A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4984. [PMID: 37894351 PMCID: PMC10605095 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15204984] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The microbiome, once considered peripheral, is emerging as a relevant player in the intricate web of factors contributing to cancer development and progression. These often overlooked microorganisms, in the context of urological malignancies, have been investigated primarily focusing on the gut microbiome, while exploration of urogenital microorganisms remains limited. Considering this, our systematic review delves into the complex role of these understudied actors in various neoplastic conditions, including prostate, bladder, kidney, penile, and testicular cancers. Our analysis found a total of 37 studies (prostate cancer 12, bladder cancer 20, kidney cancer 4, penile/testicular cancer 1), revealing distinct associations specific to each condition and hinting at potential therapeutic avenues and future biomarker discoveries. It becomes evident that further research is imperative to unravel the complexities of this domain and provide a more comprehensive understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joao G. Porto
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | | | - Brandon Pena
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Archan Khandekar
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Ankur Malpani
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Bruno Nahar
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Sanoj Punnen
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Chad R. Ritch
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Mark L. Gonzalgo
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Dipen J. Parekh
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Robert Marcovich
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Hemendra N. Shah
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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10
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Kaltsas A, Zachariou A, Markou E, Dimitriadis F, Sofikitis N, Pournaras S. Microbial Dysbiosis and Male Infertility: Understanding the Impact and Exploring Therapeutic Interventions. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1491. [PMID: 37888102 PMCID: PMC10608462 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13101491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The human microbiota in the genital tract is pivotal for maintaining fertility, but its disruption can lead to male infertility. This study examines the relationship between microbial dysbiosis and male infertility, underscoring the promise of precision medicine in this field. Through a comprehensive review, this research indicates microbial signatures associated with male infertility, such as altered bacterial diversity, the dominance of pathogenic species, and imbalances in the genital microbiome. Key mechanisms linking microbial dysbiosis to infertility include inflammation, oxidative stress, and sperm structural deterioration. Emerging strategies like targeted antimicrobial therapies, probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation have shown potential in adjusting the genital microbiota to enhance male fertility. Notably, the application of precision medicine, which customizes treatments based on individual microbial profiles and specific causes of infertility, emerges as a promising approach to enhance treatment outcomes. Ultimately, microbial dysbiosis is intricately linked to male infertility, and embracing personalized treatment strategies rooted in precision medicine principles could be the way forward in addressing infertility associated with microbial factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aris Kaltsas
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Athanasios Zachariou
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Eleftheria Markou
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Spyridon Pournaras
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Attikon General University Hospital of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece
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11
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Zhao W, Adjei M, Zhang Z, Yuan Z, Cisang Z, Song T. The role of GnRH in Tibetan male sheep and goat reproduction. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:1179-1187. [PMID: 37492901 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis connects the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and gonads. The regulation of reproductive processes includes integrating various factors from structural functions and environmental conditions in the HPG axis, with the outcome indication of these processes being the pulsatile secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus. These factors include feed consumption and nutritional condition, sex steroids, season/photoperiod, pheromones, age, and stress. GnRH pulsatile secretion affects the pattern of gonadotropin secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which then regulates both endocrine function and gamete maturation in the gonads. This regulates gonadotropins and testosterone (T) production. There is evidence that in males, GnRH participates in a variety of host behavioural and physiological processes such as the release of reproductive hormones, progression of spermatogenesis and sperm function, aggressive behaviour, and physiological metabolism. GnRH activates receptors expressed on Leydig cells and Sertoli cells, respectively to stimulate T secretion and spermatogenesis in the testis. Photoperiod affects the reproductive system of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis via rhythmic diurnal melatonin secretion. Increased release of melatonin promotes sexual activity, GnRH production, LH stimulation, and T production. This induces testicular functions, spermatogenesis, and puberty. GnRH reduces the release of LH by the pituitary through the cascade effect and decreases plasma concentration of T. Gut microbiota maintain sex steroid homeostasis and may induce reduction in reproduction productivity. Recently, findings of kisspeptin-neurokinin-dynorphin neuronal network in the brain have resulted in fast advances in how GnRH secretion is controlled. Emerging studies have also indicated that other neuropeptide analogues could be used in control reproduction procedures in various goat and sheep breeds. The Tibetan male sheep and goats reproduce on a seasonal basis and have high reproductive performance. This is a review for the role of GnRH in Tibetan male sheep and goats reproduction. This is intended to enhance reproductive knowledge for understanding the key roles of GnRH relating to male reproductive efficiency of Tibetan sheep or goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wangsheng Zhao
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Michael Adjei
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Zhenzhen Zhang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Zhenjie Yuan
- Institute of Animal Science, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, China
| | - Zhuoma Cisang
- Institute of Animal Science, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, China
| | - Tianzeng Song
- Institute of Animal Science, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, China
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Campbell K, Suarez Arbelaez MC, Ghomeshi A, Ibrahim E, Roy S, Singh P, Khodamoradi K, Miller A, Lundy SD, Ramasamy R. Next-generation sequencing analysis of semen microbiome taxonomy in men with nonobstructive azoospermia vs. fertile controls: a pilot study. F&S SCIENCE 2023; 4:257-264. [PMID: 37321541 PMCID: PMC10527663 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2023.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To study how the semen microbiome profile in men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) differs from that of fertile controls (FCs). DESIGN Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and 16S ribosomal RNA, we sequenced semen samples from men with NOA (follicle-stimulating hormone >10 IU/mL, testis volume <10 mL) and FCs and performed a comprehensive taxonomic microbiome analysis. SETTING All patients were identified during evaluation at the outpatient male andrology clinic at the University of Miami. PATIENTS In total, 33 adult men, including 14 diagnosed with NOA and 19 with proven paternity undergoing vasectomy, were enrolled. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Bacterial species in the semen microbiome were identified. RESULTS Alpha-diversity was similar between the groups, suggesting similar diversity within samples, whereas beta-diversity was different, suggesting differences in taxa between samples. In the NOA men, the phyla Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were underrepresented, and Actinobacteriota were overrepresented compared with FC men. At the genus level, Enterococcus was the most common amplicon sequence variant in both groups, whereas 5 genera differed significantly between the groups, including Escherichia and Shigella, Sneathia, and Raoutella. CONCLUSION Our study showed significant differences in the seminal microbiome between men with NOA and fertile men. These results suggest a loss of functional symbiosis may be associated with NOA. Further research into the characterization and clinical utility of the semen microbiome and its causal role in male infertility is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Campbell
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | | | - Armin Ghomeshi
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida
| | - Emad Ibrahim
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Sabita Roy
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Praveen Singh
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Kajal Khodamoradi
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Aaron Miller
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Scott D Lundy
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Ranjith Ramasamy
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida.
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Song WJ, Gao J, Huang JW, Liu Y, Long Z, He LY. Is type III prostatitis also associated with bacterial infection? Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1189081. [PMID: 37465760 PMCID: PMC10351278 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1189081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore whether type III prostatitis is related to bacterial infection by detecting the composition and function of microorganisms in expressed prostatic secretion (EPS) of patients with chronic prostatitis (CP) and healthy people. Methods According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 57 subjects were included in our study, divided into the healthy group, type II prostatitis group, and type III prostatitis group. 16s rRNA sequencing technique was used to detect and analyze the microbial composition of EPS in each group. Additionally, the metagenomics sequencing technique was used to further explore the function of different bacteria in the type III prostatitis group. Data analysis was performed by bioinformatics software, and the results were statistically significant when P<0.05. Results Many microorganisms exist in EPS in both CP patients and healthy populations. However, the relative abundance of Pseudomonas, Haemophilus, Sneathia, Allobaculum, and Enterococcus in CP patients (including type II and III) were significantly different. Still, the relative abundance of different bacteria in type II prostatitis patients was much higher than in type III. The metagenomics sequencing results for the type III prostatitis group showed that the different bacteria had certain biological functions. Conclusion Based on our sequencing results and previous studies, we suggest that type III prostatitis may also be caused by bacterial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Jie Song
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Sexual Health Research Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jun Gao
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Sexual Health Research Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ji-Wei Huang
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Sexual Health Research Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Sexual Health Research Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhi Long
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Sexual Health Research Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Le-Ye He
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Sexual Health Research Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Wohlfahrt D, Tan-Torres AL, Green R, Brim K, Bradley N, Brand A, Abshier E, Nogales F, Babcock K, Brooks J, Seashols-Williams S, Singh B. A bacterial signature-based method for the identification of seven forensically relevant human body fluids. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2023; 65:102865. [PMID: 37004371 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2023.102865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Detection and identification of body fluids plays a crucial role in criminal investigation, as it provides information on the source of the DNA as well as corroborative evidence regarding the crime committed, scene, and/or association with persons of interest. Historically, forensic serological methods have been chemical, immunological, catalytic, spectroscopic, and/or microscopic in nature. However, most of these methods are presumptive, with few robust confirmatory exceptions. In recent years several new molecular methods (mRNA, miRNA, DNA methylation, etc.) have been proposed; although promising, these methods require high quality human DNA or RNA. Additional steps are required in RNA based methods. Additionally, RNA based methods cannot be used for old cases where only DNA extracts remain to sample from. In this study, a novel non-human DNA (microbiome) based method was developed for the identification of the majority of forensically relevant human biological samples. Eight hundred and twelve (n = 812) biological samples (semen, vaginal fluid, menstrual blood, saliva, feces, urine, and blood) were collected and preserved using methods commonly used in forensic laboratories for evidence collection. Variable region four (V4) of 16 S ribosomal DNA (16 S rDNA) was amplified using a dual-indexing strategy and then sequenced on the MiSeq FGx sequencing platform using the MiSeq Reagent Kit v2 (500 cycles) and following the manufacturer's protocol. Machine learning prediction models were used to assess the classification accuracy of the newly developed method. As there was no significant difference in bacterial communities between vaginal fluid, menstrual blood, and female urine, these were combined as female intimate samples. Except in urine, the bacterial structures associated with male and female body fluid samples were not significantly different from one another. The newly developed method accurately identified human body fluid samples with an overall accuracy of more than 88%. This newly developed bacterial signature-based method is fast (no additional steps are needed as the same DNA can be used for both body fluid identification and STR typing), efficient (consume less sample as a single test can identify all major body fluids), sensitive (needs only 5 pg of bacterial DNA), accurate, and can be easily added into a forensic high throughput sequencing (HTS) panel.
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Alqawasmeh O, Fok E, Yim H, Li T, Chung J, Chan D. The microbiome and male infertility: looking into the past to move forward. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:450-462. [PMID: 36039770 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2022.2098540] [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: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The human body harbours trillions of microbes, and their influence on human health has been explored in many parts of the human body, including the male reproductive system. From routine culturing to polymerise chain reaction (PCR) and high throughput DNA sequencing, several studies have identified bacteria in the male reproductive system. In this review, we discuss the past and current literature surrounding the testicular and semen microbiome in correlation with male infertility. We further highlight the potential benefits of probiotics as an alternative therapeutic option for male infertility. Although not conclusive, emerging data are indicating potential implications of certain bacterial members on male fertility. There is a general agreement on the negative impact of some pathogenic bacterial species on semen parameters, including sperm counts, motility, morphology, and DNA integrity. On the other hand, Lactobacillus, known as a human-friendly bacteria, has shown protective effects on semen parameters, which makes it a potentially good probiotic. In order to confirm the findings of previous studies, more clinical studies with larger sample sizes and the right controls are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odai Alqawasmeh
- Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ellis Fok
- Department of Biomedical Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Howard Yim
- Microbiome Research Centre, Department of Medicine, St George & Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tin Li
- Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jacqueline Chung
- Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - David Chan
- Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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16
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Magill RG, MacDonald SM. Male infertility and the human microbiome. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1166201. [PMID: 37361341 PMCID: PMC10289028 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1166201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The historical belief in urology was that the genitourinary system should be sterile in a normal, healthy, asymptomatic adult. This idea was perpetuated for decades until research revealed a diverse microbiota existing in human anatomical niches that contributed to both human health and disease processes. In recent years, the search for an etiology and modifiable risk factors in infertility has turned to the human microbiome as well. Changes in the human gut microbiome have been associated with changes in systemic sex hormones and spermatogenesis. Certain microbial species are associated with higher levels of oxidative stress, which may contribute to an environment higher in oxidative reactive potential. Studies have demonstrated a link between increased oxidative reactive potential and abnormal semen parameters in infertile men. It has also been hypothesized that antioxidant probiotics may be able to correct an imbalance in the oxidative environment and improve male fertility, with promising results in small studies. Further, the sexual partner's microbiome may play a role as well; studies have demonstrated an overlap in the genitourinary microbiomes in sexually active couples that become more similar after intercourse. While the potential applications of the microbiome to male fertility is exciting, there is a need for larger studies with uniform microbial sequencing procedures to further expand this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Resa G. Magill
- McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Susan M. MacDonald
- Department of Urology, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
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17
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Cao T, Wang S, Pan Y, Guo F, Wu B, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Tian J, Xing Q, Liu X. Characterization of the semen, gut, and urine microbiota in patients with different semen abnormalities. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1182320. [PMID: 37293215 PMCID: PMC10244769 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1182320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Semen quality is decreasing worldwide, leading to increased male infertility. This study analyzed the microbiota of the gut, semen, and urine in individuals with semen abnormalities to identify potential probiotics and pathogenic bacteria that affect semen parameters and help develop new methods for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with semen abnormalities. Methods We recruited 12 individuals with normal semen parameters (control group), 12 with asthenospermia but no semen hyperviscosity (Group_1), 6 with oligospermia (Group_2), 9 with severe oligospermia or azoospermia (Group_3), and 14 with semen hyperviscosity only (Group_4). The semen, gut, and urine microbiota were examined by analyzing the 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequence using next-generation sequencing. Results The gut microbes were clustered into the highest number of operational taxonomic units, followed by urine and semen. Furthermore, the α-diversity of gut microbes was highest and significantly different from that of urine and semen microbiota. The microbiota of the gut, urine, and semen were all significantly different from each other in terms of β-diversity. The gut abundance of Collinsella was significantly reduced in groups 1, 3, and 4. Furthermore, the gut abundance of Bifidobacterium and Blautia was significantly decreased in Group_1, while that of Bacteroides was significantly increased in Group_3. The abundance of Staphylococcus was significantly increased in the semen of groups 1 and 4. Finally, Lactobacillus abundance was significantly reduced in the urine of groups 2 and 4. Discussion This study comprehensively describes the differences in intestinal and genitourinary tract microbiota between healthy individuals and those with abnormal semen parameters. Furthermore, our study identified Collinsella, Bifidobacterium, Blautia, and Lactobacillus as potential probiotics. Finally, the study identified Bacteroides in the gut and Staphylococcus in semen as potential pathogenic bacteria. Our study lays the foundation of a new approach to the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingshuai Cao
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Department of Urology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Shangren Wang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yang Pan
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Feng Guo
- Department of Urology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Bin Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingchun Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Yujie Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Jiaqing Tian
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Qingfei Xing
- Department of Urology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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Yu W, Li Y, Chen H, Cui Y, Situ C, Yao L, Zhang X, Lu S, Liu L, Li L, Ren J, Guo Y, Huo Z, Chen Y, Li H, Jiang T, Gu Y, Wang C, Zhu T, Li Y, Hu Z, Guo X. STK33 phosphorylates fibrous sheath protein AKAP3/4 to regulate sperm flagella assembly in spermiogenesis. Mol Cell Proteomics 2023:100564. [PMID: 37146716 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2023.100564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis defects are important for male infertility; however, the etiology and pathogenesis are still unknown. Herein, we identified two loss of function mutations of STK33 in 7 individuals with non-obstructive azoospermia. Further functional studies of these frameshift and nonsense mutations revealed that Stk33-/KI male mice were sterile, and Stk33-/KI sperm were abnormal with defects in the mitochondrial sheath (MS), fibrous sheath (FS), outer dense fiber (ODF) and axoneme. Stk33KI/KI male mice were subfertile and had oligoasthenozoospermia. Differential phosphoproteomic analysis and in vitro kinase assay identified novel phosphorylation substrates of STK33, fibrous sheath components AKAP3 and AKAP4, whose expression levels decreased in testis after deletion of Stk33. STK33 regulated the phosphorylation of AKAP3/4, affected the assembly of fibrous sheath in the sperm, and played an essential role in spermiogenesis and male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiling Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; School of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Hong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yiqiang Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Chenghao Situ
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Liping Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xiangzheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Shuai Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; School of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Li Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Laihua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Jie Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yueshuai Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Zian Huo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Haojie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; School of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Yayun Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; School of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; School of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Tianyu Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; School of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China.
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
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Zuber A, Peric A, Pluchino N, Baud D, Stojanov M. Human Male Genital Tract Microbiota. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24086939. [PMID: 37108103 PMCID: PMC10139050 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24086939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The human body is vastly colonised by microorganisms, whose impact on health is increasingly recognised. The human genital tract hosts a diverse microbiota, and an increasing number of studies on the male genital tract microbiota suggest that bacteria have a role in male infertility and pathological conditions, such as prostate cancer. Nevertheless, this research field remains understudied. The study of bacterial colonisation of the male genital tract is highly impacted by the invasive nature of sampling and the low abundance of the microbiota. Therefore, most studies relied on the analysis of semen microbiota to describe the colonisation of the male genital tract (MGT), which was thought to be sterile. The aim of this narrative review is to present the results of studies that used next-generation sequencing (NGS) to profile the bacterial colonisation patterns of different male genital tract anatomical compartments and critically highlight their findings and their weaknesses. Moreover, we identified potential research axes that may be crucial for our understanding of the male genital tract microbiota and its impact on male infertility and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Zuber
- Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Adriana Peric
- 360° Fertility Center Zurich, 8702 Zollikon, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Pluchino
- Fertility Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Baud
- Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Milos Stojanov
- Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
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Doroftei B, Ilie OD, Maftei R, Scripcariu IS, Armeanu T, Stoian IL, Ilea C. A Narrative Review Discussing Vasectomy-Related Impact upon the Status of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Biomarkers and Semen Microbiota. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12072671. [PMID: 37048754 PMCID: PMC10095584 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12072671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Male contraceptive approaches besides tubal sterilization involve vasectomy and represent the method of choice among midlife men in developing countries thanks to many advantages. However, the subsidiary consequences of this intervention are insufficiently explored since the involved mechanisms may offer insight into a much more complex picture. Methods: Thus, in this manuscript, we aimed to reunite all available data by searching three separate academic database(s) (PubMed, Web of Knowledge, and Scopus) published in the past two decades by covering the interval 2000–2023 and using a predefined set of keywords and strings involving “oxidative stress” (OS), “inflammation”, and “semen microbiota” in combination with “humans”, “rats”, and “mice”. Results: By following all evidence that fits in the pre-, post-, and vasectomy reversal (VR) stages, we identified a total of n = 210 studies from which only n = 21 were finally included following two procedures of eligibility evaluation. Conclusions: The topic surrounding this intricate landscape has created debate since the current evidence is contradictory, limited, or does not exist. Starting from this consideration, we argue that further research is mandatory to decipher how a vasectomy might disturb homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bogdan Doroftei
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street no 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology “Cuza Voda”, Cuza Voda Street no 34, 700038 Iasi, Romania
- Origyn Fertility Center, Palace Street, no 3C, 700032 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ovidiu-Dumitru Ilie
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University, Carol I Avenue no 20A, 700505 Iasi, Romania
| | - Radu Maftei
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street no 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology “Cuza Voda”, Cuza Voda Street no 34, 700038 Iasi, Romania
- Origyn Fertility Center, Palace Street, no 3C, 700032 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ioana-Sadyie Scripcariu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street no 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology “Cuza Voda”, Cuza Voda Street no 34, 700038 Iasi, Romania
| | - Theodora Armeanu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street no 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology “Cuza Voda”, Cuza Voda Street no 34, 700038 Iasi, Romania
- Origyn Fertility Center, Palace Street, no 3C, 700032 Iasi, Romania
| | - Irina-Liviana Stoian
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street no 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ciprian Ilea
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street no 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology “Cuza Voda”, Cuza Voda Street no 34, 700038 Iasi, Romania
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21
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Ma Y, Ma QW, Sun Y, Chen XF. The emerging role of extracellular vesicles in the testis. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:334-351. [PMID: 36728671 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized membrane-bounded particles, released by all cells and capable of transporting bioactive cargoes, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, to regulate a variety of biological functions. Seminal plasma is enriched in EVs, and extensive evidence has revealed the role of EVs (e.g. prostasomes and epididymosomes) in the male genital tract. Recently, EVs released from testicular cells have been isolated and identified, and some new insights have been generated on their role in maintaining normal spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in the testis. In the seminiferous tubules, Sertoli cell-derived EVs can promote the differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), and EVs secreted from undifferentiated A spermatogonia can inhibit the proliferation of SSCs. In the testicular interstitium, EVs have been identified in endothelial cells, macrophages, telocytes, and Leydig cells, although their roles are still elusive. Testicular EVs can also pass through the blood-testis barrier and mediate inter-compartment communication between the seminiferous tubules and the interstitium. Immature Sertoli cell-derived EVs can promote survival and suppress the steroidogenesis of Leydig cells. Exosomes isolated from macrophages can protect spermatogonia from radiation-induced injury. In addition to their role in intercellular communication, testicular EVs may also participate in the removal of aberrant proteins and the delivery of antigens for immune tolerance. EVs released from testicular cells can be detected in seminal plasma, which makes them potential biomarkers reflecting testicular function and disease status. The testicular EVs in seminal plasma may also affect the female reproductive tract to facilitate conception and may even affect early embryogenesis through modulating sperm RNA. EVs represent a new type of intercellular messenger in the testis. A detailed understanding of the role of testicular EV may contribute to the discovery of new mechanisms causing male infertility and enable the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for the treatment of infertile men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Qin-Wen Ma
- Shanghai Xinzhu Middle School, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang-Feng Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai, China
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22
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Interaction between Host and Microbes in the Semen of Patients with Idiopathic Nonobstructive Azoospermia. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0436522. [PMID: 36633411 PMCID: PMC9927269 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04365-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) face the dual problems of low sperm count and low sperm quality. Most men with NOA without a clear cause are classified as having idiopathic NOA (iNOA). Previous studies found that microbes exist in semen, and the semen microbes of NOA men are different from those of normal men. However, the relevant mechanism is not clear. In this study, we answered the three questions of "who is there," "what is it doing," and "who is doing it" by combining 16s rRNA, nontargeted metabolome detection and metabolite traceability analysis. We found that the composition and interaction of seminal plasma microbes in the iNOA group changed. Metabolite traceability analysis and metabolic pathway analysis revealed that microbial abnormalities in the NOA group were closely related to the decrease of microbial degradation of toluene and the increase of metabolism of fructose or mannose. In addition, the metabolic relationship between microbes and the host in male semen in iNOA revealed that such microbes can produce harmful metabolites that affect sperm quality, the microbes compete with sperm for essential nutrients, and their presence reduces sperm production of essential nutrients. IMPORTANCE Idiopathic nonobstructive azoospermia is one of the great challenges in assisted reproductive therapy. Although microdissection testicular sperm extraction technology is currently available, many men with iNOA still face the problem of poor sperm retrieval and poor sperm quality. The role of seminal plasma microbes in male disease has been continuously investigated since semen was demonstrated to harbor commensal microbes. To our knowledge, this is the first detailed description of the microbe-host relationship in iNOA semen. This study is an important complement to research on the treatment and etiology of iNOA and the rationale for our ongoing research.
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23
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Cao Y, Wang H, Jin Z, Hang J, Jiang H, Wu H, Zhang Z. Characterization of Non-Obstructive Azoospermia in Men Using Gut Microbial Profiling. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12020701. [PMID: 36675631 PMCID: PMC9861525 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12020701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a complex multifactorial disease and the causes of most NOA cases remain unknown. (2) Methods: Here, we performed comprehensive clinical analyses and gut microbial profiling using shotgun metagenomic sequencing in patients with NOA and control individuals. (3) Results: The gut microbial alpha and beta diversity significantly differed between patients with NOA and controls. Several microbial strains, including Bacteroides vulgatus and Streptococcus thermophilus, were significantly more abundant in the NOA group, whereas Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and Parabacteroides sp. CT06 were enriched in the control group. Moreover, functional pathway analysis suggested that the altered microbiota in NOA suppressed the carbohydrate metabolism pathway, while amino acid metabolism and methane metabolism pathways were enhanced. We observed that the differential microbial species, such as Acinetobacter johnsonii, had a strong correlation with clinical parameters, including age, body mass index, testosterone, and follicle-stimulating hormone. Communication and interplay among microbial genera were significantly increased in NOA than in the control group. (4) Conclusions: Altered microbial composition and functional pathways in the NOA group were revealed, which highlight the utility of gut microbiota in understanding microbiota-related pathogenesis of NOA and might be helpful to the clinical management of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalei Cao
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Haojie Wang
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zirun Jin
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jing Hang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Urology, Peking University First Hospital, Institute of Urology, Beijing 100034, China
- Correspondence: (H.J.); (H.W.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Huajun Wu
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100191, China
- Correspondence: (H.J.); (H.W.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Correspondence: (H.J.); (H.W.); (Z.Z.)
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24
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Kang C, Bertolla R, Pagani R. The '-ics' of male reproduction: genomics, epigenetics, proteomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics. Curr Opin Urol 2023; 33:31-38. [PMID: 36210759 DOI: 10.1097/mou.0000000000001052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review the most current findings, from the past 2 years, in various '-ics' fields in male infertility, with a specific focus on nonobstructive azoospermia, the most severe form, and varicocele, the most common correctable cause of male infertility. RECENT FINDINGS Recent studies confirm previously identified causes and identify previously unknown genetic mutations as causes for nonobstructive azoospermia and varicocele. SUMMARY Infertility is a common problem for couples with approximately half of cases attributable to male factor infertility. Although advances in assisted reproductive technology have permitted many more men with infertility to father biological children, the majority of infertile men continue to have unknown causes. The recent explosion of the '-ics' fields, including genomics, epigenetics, proteomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics, has shed light on previously unknown causes for various diseases. New information in these fields will not only shed light on the pathogenesis of these conditions but also may shift the paradigm in clinical testing that may allow clinicians to provide more precise counseling and prognostic information for men with infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Kang
- Department of Urology, Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ricardo Bertolla
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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25
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Suarez Arbelaez MC, Israeli JM, Tipton CD, Loloi J, Deebel N, Leong JY, Ramasamy R. Pilot Study: Next-generation Sequencing of the Semen Microbiome in Vasectomized Versus Nonvasectomized Men. Eur Urol Focus 2023; 9:75-82. [PMID: 36396563 DOI: 10.1016/j.euf.2022.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately half a million vasectomies are performed every year in the USA. There is a paucity of literature on the impact of male sterilization on the semen microbiome and whether it prompts microbiota dysbiosis. OBJECTIVE To investigate if vasectomy induces changes in the seminal microbiome via comparison of semen samples from men before and after vasectomy, and if the seminal microbiome profiles for vasectomized men follow a particular pattern with respect to diversity and abundance. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS From July 2021 to February 2022, we prospectively collected and analyzed semen samples from 58 men at one outpatient clinic. Eighteen men provided a semen sample before and 3 mo after vasectomy. We also collected semen samples from 22 fertile nonvasectomized men and from a further 18 vasectomized men at 3 mo after vasectomy. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS Semen microbiome α-diversity, beta-diversity, and relative abundance were compared initially between paired and then between unpaired vasectomized and nonvasectomized samples. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), permutational multivariate ANOVA, and analysis of the composition of microbiomes with bias correction were used to assess differences. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS In both paired and unpaired sets of samples, a decreasing trend for α-diversity in semen after vasectomy was observed. Shannon diversity, the relative abundance of species with an abundance >2%, and composition were not significantly changed. Sphingomonas, Brevundimonas, and Paracoccus abundance decreased after vasectomy, while Corynebacterium abundance increased. The results may be limited by the sample size and lack of demographic heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS Vasectomy is followed by a decrease in α-diversity and changes in the relative abundance of bacterial species in the semen microbiome. Further investigation is necessary to understand the clinical significance of these changes after vasectomy. PATIENT SUMMARY We evaluated changes in the bacteria species in semen after vasectomy. We found that vasectomy decreased the richness and evenness of bacteria species in semen, but the overall bacterial community remained similar. Further studies are needed to assess the implications of changes in semen bacteria after vasectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph M Israeli
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Craig D Tipton
- RTL Genomics, MicroGen DX, Lubbock, TX, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Justin Loloi
- Department of Urology, Montefiore Medical Center, The Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Nicholas Deebel
- Department of Urology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Salem, NC, USA
| | - Joon Yau Leong
- Department of Urology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ranjith Ramasamy
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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26
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Luecke SM, Webb EM, Dahlen CR, Reynolds LP, Amat S. Seminal and vagino-uterine microbiome and their individual and interactive effects on cattle fertility. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1029128. [PMID: 36425035 PMCID: PMC9679222 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1029128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive failure is a major economical drain on cow-calf operations across the globe. It can occur in both males and females and stem from prenatal and postnatal influences. Therefore, the cattle industry has been making efforts to improve fertility and the pregnancy rate in cattle herds as an attempt to maintain sustainability and profitability of cattle production. Despite the advancements made in genetic selection, nutrition, and the implementation of various reproductive technologies, fertility rates have not significantly improved in the past 50 years. This signifies a missing factor or factors in current reproductive management practices that influence successful fertilization and pregnancy. Emerging lines of evidence derived from human and other animals including cattle suggest that the microbial continuum along the male and female reproductive tracts are associated with male and female fertility-that is, fertilization, implantation, and pregnancy success-highlighting the potential for harnessing the male and female reproductive microbiome to improve fertility in cattle. The objective of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the recent studies on the bovine seminal and vagino-uterine microbiome and discuss individual and interactive roles of these microbial communities in defining cattle fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M. Luecke
- Department of Microbiological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
| | - Emily M. Webb
- Department of Microbiological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
| | - Carl R. Dahlen
- Department of Animal Sciences, and Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
| | - Lawrence P. Reynolds
- Department of Animal Sciences, and Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
| | - Samat Amat
- Department of Microbiological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
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27
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Fabozzi G, Rebuzzini P, Cimadomo D, Allori M, Franzago M, Stuppia L, Garagna S, Ubaldi FM, Zuccotti M, Rienzi L. Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals, Gut Microbiota, and Human (In)Fertility-It Is Time to Consider the Triad. Cells 2022; 11:3335. [PMID: 36359730 PMCID: PMC9654651 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiota (GM) is a complex and dynamic population of microorganisms living in the human gastrointestinal tract that play an important role in human health and diseases. Recent evidence suggests a strong direct or indirect correlation between GM and both male and female fertility: on the one hand, GM is involved in the regulation of sex hormone levels and in the preservation of the blood-testis barrier integrity; on the other hand, a dysbiotic GM is linked to the onset of pro-inflammatory conditions such as endometriosis or PCOS, which are often associated with infertility. Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is one of the main causes of GM dysbiosis, with important consequences to the host health and potential transgenerational effects. This perspective article aims to show that the negative effects of EDCs on reproduction are in part due to a dysbiotic GM. We will highlight (i) the link between GM and male and female fertility; (ii) the mechanisms of interaction between EDCs and GM; and (iii) the importance of the maternal-fetal GM axis for offspring growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Fabozzi
- B-Woman, Via dei Monti Parioli 6, 00197 Rome, Italy
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Via De Notaris 2B, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Rebuzzini
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Via De Notaris 2B, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Marica Franzago
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Liborio Stuppia
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Silvia Garagna
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Zuccotti
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Via De Notaris 2B, 00197 Rome, Italy
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, Via Sant’Andrea 34, 61029 Urbino, Italy
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28
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Wang N, Chen L, Yi K, Zhang B, Li C, Zhou X. The effects of microbiota on reproductive health: A review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 64:1486-1507. [PMID: 36066460 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2117784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive issues are becoming an increasing global problem. There is increasing interest in the relationship between microbiota and reproductive health. Stable microbiota communities exist in the gut, reproductive tract, uterus, testes, and semen. Various effects (e.g., epigenetic modifications, nervous system, metabolism) of dysbiosis in the microbiota can impair gamete quality; interfere with zygote formation, embryo implantation, and embryo development; and increase disease susceptibility, thus adversely impacting reproductive capacity and pregnancy. The maintenance of a healthy microbiota can protect the host from pathogens, increase reproductive potential, and reduce the rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes. In conclusion, this review discusses microbiota in the male and female reproductive systems of multiple animal species. It explores the effects and mechanisms of microbiota on reproduction, factors that influence microbiota composition, and applications of microbiota in reproductive disorder treatment and detection. The findings support novel approaches for managing reproductive diseases through microbiota improvement and monitoring. In addition, it will stimulate further systematic explorations of microbiota-mediated effects on reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lu Chen
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Kangle Yi
- Hunan Institute of Animal and Veterinary Science, Changsha, China
| | - Baizhong Zhang
- Hunan Institute of Animal and Veterinary Science, Changsha, China
| | - Chunjin Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xu Zhou
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Meng K, Lin X, Liu H, Chen H, Liu F, Xu Z, Sun Y, Luo D. Gonadal bacterial community composition is associated with sex-specific differences in swamp eels (Monopterus albus). Front Immunol 2022; 13:938326. [PMID: 36091072 PMCID: PMC9449807 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.938326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Organisms are colonized by microorganism communities and play a pivotal role in host function by influencing physiology and development. In mammals, bacterial community may alter gonadal maturation and drive sex-specific differences in gene expression and metabolism. However, bacterial microbiota diversity in the gonads of early vertebrates has not been fully elucidated. Here, we focused on the swamp eel (Monopterus albus), which naturally undergoes sex reversal, and systematically analyzed the bacterial microbiota profiles between females and males using 16S rRNA gene sequences. Specifically, the microbial abundance and community diversity of gonads in males were higher than in females. Although Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria were characterized as the dominating phyla in ovary and testis, the relative abundance of Firmicutes was significantly higher in males than females. Detailed analysis of the microbial community revealed that Bacilli were the dominant bacteria in ovaries and Clostridium in testes of M. albus. More importantly, we proposed that differences in the microbial composition and distribution between ovaries and testes may be linked to functional categories in M. albus, especially metabolism. These findings represent a unique resource of bacterial community in gonads to facilitate future research about the mechanism of how microbiota influence sex-specific differences and sex reversal in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaifeng Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xing Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hairong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Huijie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Fei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yonghua Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Daji Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Daji Luo,
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30
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Santacroce L, Imbimbo C, Ballini A, Crocetto F, Scacco S, Cantore S, Di Zazzo E, Colella M, Jirillo E. Testicular Immunity and Its Connection with the Microbiota. Physiological and Clinical Implications in the Light of Personalized Medicine. J Pers Med 2022; 12:1335. [PMID: 36013286 PMCID: PMC9409709 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12081335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproduction is a complex process, which is based on the cooperation between the endocrine-immune system and the microbiota. Testicular immunity is characterized by the so-called immune privilege, a mechanism that avoids autoimmune attacks against proteins expressed by spermatozoa. Testicular microbiota is connected with the gut microbiota, the most prevalent site of commensals inthe body. Both microbiotas take part inthe development of the immune system and protection againstpathogen invasion. Dysbiosis is caused by concurrent pathologies, such as obesity, diabetes, infections and trauma. The substitution of beneficial bacteria with pathogens may lead to destruction of spermatozoa directly or indirectly and, ultimately, to male infertility. Novel therapeutic interventions, i.e., nutritional interventions and supplementation of natural products, such as, probiotics, prebiotics, antioxidants and polyphenols, may lead to the restoration of the otherwise-impaired male reproductive potential, even if experimental and clinical results are not always concordant. In this review, the structure and immune function of the testis will be described with special reference to the blood-testisbarrier. The regulatory role of both the gut and testicular microbiota will be illustrated in health and disease, also emphasizing therapeutic attempts with natural products for the correction of male infertility, in the era of personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Santacroce
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Ciro Imbimbo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Ballini
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Felice Crocetto
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore Scacco
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Stefania Cantore
- Independent Researcher, Sorriso & Benessere—Ricerca e Clinica, 70129 Bari, Italy
| | - Erika Di Zazzo
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Marica Colella
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Emilio Jirillo
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
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Cai H, Cao X, Qin D, Liu Y, Liu Y, Hua J, Peng S. Gut microbiota supports male reproduction via nutrition, immunity, and signaling. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:977574. [PMID: 36060736 PMCID: PMC9434149 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.977574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota (GM) is a major component of the gastrointestinal tract. Growing evidence suggests that it has various effects on many distal organs including the male reproductive system in mammals. GM and testis form the gut-testis axis involving the production of key molecules through microbial metabolism or de novo synthesis. These molecules have nutrition, immunity, and hormone-related functions and promote the male reproductive system via the circulatory system. GM helps maintain the integral structure of testes and regulates testicular immunity to protect the spermatogenic environment. Factors damaging GM negatively impact male reproductive function, however, the related mechanism is unknown. Also, the correlation between GM and testis remains to be yet investigated. This review discusses the complex influence of GM on the male reproductive system highlighting the impact on male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Cai
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xuanhong Cao
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dezhe Qin
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular and Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yundie Liu
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jinlian Hua
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sha Peng
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
- *Correspondence: Sha Peng,
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Doroftei B, Ilie OD, Dabuleanu AM, Hutanu D, Vaduva CC. A Retrospective Narrative Mini-Review Regarding the Seminal Microbiota in Infertile Male. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:medicina58081067. [PMID: 36013533 PMCID: PMC9414835 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58081067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background: Infertility is a global burden that affects both sexes with the male component remaining as an explored yet crucial research field that might offer novel evidence. Material and Methods: The present narrative mini-review aims to summarize all existing literature regarding the composition of the seminal microflora in infertile men. We performed searches in PubMed/Medline, ISI Web of Knowledge, Scopus, and ScienceDirect between 2018 and 2022 using a combination of keywords. Results: A total of n = 33 studies met the eligibility criteria and were further considered. From this, n = 14 were conducted on human patients, n = 3 on zebrafish (Danio rerio), n = 5 on rats, and n = 11 on mice. In twenty-five out of thirty-three papers, the authors sequenced the 16S rRNA; situations occurred where researchers focused on standard laboratory protocols. Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are widely recognized as putative beneficial lactic bacteria. These two entities are capable of restoring the host’s eubiosis to some extent, blocking pathogens’ proliferation and endotoxins, and even alleviating specific patterns encountered in disease(s) (e.g., obesity, type 1 diabetes) due to prolonged exposure to toxicants in adults or from a developmental stage. Over the years, distinct approaches have been perfected, such as the transfer of feces between two species or conventional rudimentary products with proven efficiency. Conclusions: The seminal microflora is decisive and able to modulate psychological and physiological responses. Each individual possesses a personalized microbial profile further shaped by exogenous factors, regardless of sex and species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bogdan Doroftei
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street, No. 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology “Cuza Voda”, Cuza Voda Street, No. 34, 700038 Iasi, Romania
- Origyn Fertility Center, Palace Street, No. 3C, 700032 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ovidiu-Dumitru Ilie
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University, Carol I Avenue, No. 20A, 700505 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Ana-Maria Dabuleanu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street, No. 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology “Cuza Voda”, Cuza Voda Street, No. 34, 700038 Iasi, Romania
- Origyn Fertility Center, Palace Street, No. 3C, 700032 Iasi, Romania
| | - Delia Hutanu
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Chemistry-Biology-Geography, West University of Timisoara, Vasile Parvan Avenue, No. 4, 300115 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Constantin-Cristian Vaduva
- Department of Mother and Child Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Petru Rares Street, No. 2, 200349 Craiova, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital Filantropia, Filantropia Street, No. 1, 200143 Craiova, Romania
- Department of Infertility and IVF, HitMed Medical Center, Stefan cel Mare Street, No. 23-23A, 200130 Craiova, Romania
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Liu X, Zang C, Wu Y, Meng R, Chen Y, Jiang T, Wang C, Yang X, Guo Y, Situ C, Hu Z, Zhang J, Guo X. Homeodomain-interacting protein kinase HIPK4 regulates phosphorylation of manchette protein RIMBP3 during spermiogenesis. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102327. [PMID: 35931115 PMCID: PMC9440445 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is the most serious form of spermatogenesis abnormalities in male infertility. Genetic factors are important to consider as elements leading to NOA. Although many pathogenic genes have been reported, the causative genes of NOA for many patients are still unknown. In this study, we found ten point mutations in the gene encoding homeodomain-interacting protein kinase 4 (HIPK4) in patients with NOA, and using in vitro studies, we determined a premature termination point mutation (p. Lys490∗, c.1468A>T) that can cause decreased expression of HIPK4. Our phosphoproteomic analysis of Hipk4−/− testes revealed phosphorylation of multiple proteins regulated by HIPK4 during spermiogenesis. We also confirmed that a substrate of HIPK4 with four downregulated phosphorylation sites matching the xSPx motif is the known manchette-related protein RIMS-binding protein 3, which is required for sperm head morphogenesis. Therefore, we conclude HIPK4 regulates the phosphorylation of manchette protein RIMS-binding protein 3 and plays essential roles in sperm head shaping and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Chunyan Zang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yifei Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Ru Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Yueshuai Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Chenghao Situ
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
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34
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Chen T, Wang Y, Tian L, Guo X, Xia J, Wang Z, Song N. Aberrant Gene Expression Profiling in Men With Sertoli Cell-Only Syndrome. Front Immunol 2022; 13:821010. [PMID: 35833143 PMCID: PMC9273009 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.821010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) is the most severe and common pathological type of non-obstructive azoospermia. The etiology of SCOS remains largely unknown to date despite a handful of studies reported in this area. According to the gene expression of testicular tissue samples in six datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus, we detected 1441 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between SCOS and obstructive azoospermia (OA) testicular tissue samples. Enriched GO terms and KEGG pathways for the downregulated genes included various terms and pathways related to cell cycle and reproduction, while the enrichment for the upregulated genes yielded many inflammation-related terms and pathways. In accordance with the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, all genes in the most critical module belonged to the downregulated DEGs, and we obtained nine hub genes, including CCNB1, AURKA, CCNA2, BIRC5, TYMS, UBE2C, CDC20, TOP2A, and OIP5. Among these hub genes, six were also found in the most significant SCOS-specific module obtained from consensus module analysis. In addition, most of SCOS-specific modules did not have a consensus counterpart. Based on the downregulated genes, transcription factors (TFs) and kinases within the upstream regulatory network were predicted. Then, we compared the difference in infiltrating levels of immune cells between OA and SCOS samples and found a significantly higher degree of infiltration for most immune cells in SCOS than OA samples. Moreover, CD56bright natural killer cell was significantly associated with six hub genes. Enriched hallmark pathways in SCOS had remarkably more upregulated pathways than the downregulated ones. Collectively, we detected DEGs, significant modules, hub genes, upstream TFs and kinases, enriched downstream pathways, and infiltrated immune cells that might be specifically implicated in the pathogenesis of SCOS. These findings provide new insights into the pathogenesis of SCOS and fuel future advances in its theranostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yichun Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Linlin Tian
- Department of Microbiology Laboratory, Nanjing Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiadong Xia
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zengjun Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Ninghong Song, ; Zengjun Wang,
| | - Ninghong Song
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- The Affiliated Kezhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Kezhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ninghong Song, ; Zengjun Wang,
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35
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Venneri MA, Franceschini E, Sciarra F, Rosato E, D'Ettorre G, Lenzi A. Human genital tracts microbiota: dysbiosis crucial for infertility. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:1151-1160. [PMID: 35113404 PMCID: PMC9098539 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01752-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Human body is colonized by trillions of microbes, influenced by several factors, both endogenous, as hormones and circadian regulation, and exogenous as, life-style habits and nutrition. The alteration of such factors can lead to microbial dysbiosis, a phenomenon which, in turn, represents a risk factor in many different pathologies including cancer, diabetes, autoimmune and cardiovascular disease, and infertility. Female microbiota dysbiosis (vaginal, endometrial, placental) and male microbiota dysbiosis (seminal fluid) can influence the fertility, determining a detrimental impact on various conditions, as pre-term birth, neonatal illnesses, and macroscopic sperm parameters impairments. Furthermore, unprotected sexual intercourse creates a bacterial exchange between partners, and, in addition, each partner can influence the microbiota composition of partner's reproductive tracts. This comprehensive overview of the effects of bacterial dysbiosis in both sexes and how partners might influence each other will allow for better personalization of infertility management.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Venneri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - E Franceschini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - F Sciarra
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - E Rosato
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G D'Ettorre
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - A Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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36
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Werneburg GT, Lundy SD, Bajic P. The Microbiome and Sexual Health. J Sex Med 2022; 19:1600-1603. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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37
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Choy KHK, Chan SY, Lam W, Jin J, Zheng T, Law TYS, Yu SS, Wang W, Li L, Xie G, Yim HCH, Chen H, Fok EKL. The repertoire of testicular extracellular vesicle cargoes and their involvement in inter-compartmental communication associated with spermatogenesis. BMC Biol 2022; 20:78. [PMID: 35351114 PMCID: PMC8966158 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01268-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spermatogenesis is regulated by a complex network of intercellular communication processes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are one of the important mediators in intercellular communication. Previous reports have demonstrated the involvement of EVs from the epididymis and prostate in sperm maturation and function. However, the presence of EVs in the testis and their potential involvement in spermatogenesis has not been explored. Here, we have established a testis dissociation protocol that allows the isolation and characterization of testicular EVs. Results We show that testicular EVs are specifically and efficiently taken up by somatic cells and germ cells, including the spermatozoa in the interstitial space and the seminiferous tubule compartments. We profiled the proteome of testicular EVs and probed the cell types that release them, revealing the potential contributions from the Leydig cells and testicular macrophages. Moreover, we sequenced the small RNA cargoes of testicular EVs and identified sets of small non-coding RNAs that were overlooked in the testis transcriptome. Selected miRNA candidates in testicular EVs were found in sperm RNA payload and demonstrated specific resistance towards ribonuclease A independent of the vesicle membrane. Small molecule inhibition of EV secretion perturbed spermatogenesis via inter-compartmental communication. Conclusions Together, our study provides a valuable resource on the repertoire of cargoes carried by testicular EVs and uncovers a physiological function of testicular EVs in inter-compartmental communication associated to spermatogenesis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12915-022-01268-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Hoi Kei Choy
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Sze Yan Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - William Lam
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Jing Jin
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Tingting Zheng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Tin Yu Samuel Law
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Sidney Siubun Yu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Weiping Wang
- Dr. Li Dak-Sum Research Centre, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Linxian Li
- Ming Wai Lau Centre for Reparative Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Gangcai Xie
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Howard Chi Ho Yim
- Microbiome Research Centre, St George and Sutherland Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ellis Kin Lam Fok
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China. .,Sichuan University-The Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.
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38
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Wang H, Xu A, Gong L, Chen Z, Zhang B, Li X. The Microbiome, an Important Factor That Is Easily Overlooked in Male Infertility. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:831272. [PMID: 35308385 PMCID: PMC8924671 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.831272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Humankind has been interested in reproduction for millennia. Infertility, in which male factors contribute to approximately 50%, is estimated to concern over 72 million people worldwide. Despite advances in the diagnosis, medical treatment, and psychosocial management of male infertility over the past few decades, approximately 30% of male infertility is still thought to be idiopathic. Despite emerging advances in the microbiome associated with male infertility have indicated that the microbiome may be a key factor to the management of male infertility, roles, and mechanisms of the microbiome remain ambiguous. Here, we mainly discussed the association between microbial infection in the genital tract and male infertility, effect of antimicrobial therapy on male reproduction, association between microbial dysbiosis and male infertility, and effect of probiotic intervention on male reproduction. This review made progress toward establishing a relationship between the microbiome and male infertility, and explored the role of the microbiome in male infertility. We call for more high-quality studies to focus on the relationship between microbes and male infertility, and strongly suggest increasing awareness among sterile males with microbial infection and/or microbial dysbiosis when they seek fertility help.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hefeng Wang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Anran Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Liping Gong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yicheng Street Community Health Service Center, Linyi, China
| | - Zhaowen Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Xiuyun Li
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Jinan, China
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39
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Wang Y, Xie Z. Exploring the role of gut microbiome in male reproduction. Andrology 2021; 10:441-450. [PMID: 34918486 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of the gut microbiome on the organism has become a growing research focus with the development of 16S rRNA sequencing. However, the effect of the gut microbiome in male reproduction has yet to be investigated. OBJECTIVE To overview on possible mechanisms by which gut microbiome could affect male reproduction and therapeutic opportunities related to the gut microbiome METHODS: Authors searched PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library for medical subject headings terms and free text words referred to "male infertility" "testis" "gut microbiome" "insulin resistance" "erectile dysfunction" "therapy" "sex hormones" "Genital Diseases." until Dec 2nd 2021. RESULTS Evidence suggests that immune system activation caused by the gut microbiome translocation not only leads to testicular and epididymal inflammation but can also induce insulin resistance together with gastrointestinal hormones such as leptin and ghrelin, which in turn affects the secretion of various sex hormones such as LH, FSH, and T to regulate spermatogenesis. In addition, the gut microbiome can influence spermatogenesis by controlling and metabolizing androgens as well as affecting the blood-testis barrier. It also promotes vascular inflammation by raising trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) levels in the blood, which causes erectile dysfunction. Testicular microbiome and gut microbiome can interact to influence male reproductive function. This study discusses therapeutic options such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, as well as the challenges and opportunities behind ongoing research, and emphasizes the need for additional research in the future to demonstrate the links and underlying mechanisms between gut microbiome and male reproduction. Therapeutic options such as probiotic, prebiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation are potential treatments for male infertility. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Gut microbiota may have a causal role in male reproduction health, therapeutic strategies such as supplementation with appropriate probiotics could be undertaken as a complementary treatment. In the future, additional research is needed to demonstrate the links and underlying mechanisms between gut microbiome and male reproduction. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Second Clinical Medical School, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Zuogang Xie
- Wenzhou Hospital of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Affiliated to Zhejiang, University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Andrology, Zhejiang, 325000, China
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40
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Seminal and testicular microbiome and male fertility: A systematic review. Porto Biomed J 2021; 6:e151. [PMID: 34881355 PMCID: PMC8647872 DOI: 10.1097/j.pbj.0000000000000151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text Microbiome is of upmost importance for the well-being of the human body. Based on culture and PCR methods, seminal flora has been pointed as a potential cause for some of the unexplained male infertility. This is a systematic review about the effect of seminal microbiota studied by Next Generation Sequencing techniques on sperm quality and male fertility, performed according to PRISMA statement. Nine articles were included. Results of different studies are diverse. It seems that microbiota may a play a role in seminal quality and further male fertility, but the way this effect is modulated is still to be unknown. Lactobacillus spp seemed to play a beneficial role in semen quality, but the role of the remaining bacteria is unclear. Due to the lack of research and the incongruence of the results so far, the effect of microbiota on seminal quality is still unclear.
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Medo J, Žiarovská J, Ďuračka M, Tvrdá E, Baňas Š, Gábor M, Kyseľ M, Kačániová M. Core Microbiome of Slovak Holstein Friesian Breeding Bulls' Semen. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113331. [PMID: 34828061 PMCID: PMC8614657 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The aim of this study was to characterize the bacterial profile of semen collected from Holstein Friesian breeding bulls via a high-throughput sequencing approach for a 16S rRNA gene variability analysis. A total of 55 fresh semen samples of sexually mature breeding bulls were used in the study. They were gathered from Holstein Friesian breeding bulls at Slovak Biological Services in Nitra, Slovak Republic. To amplify the V4 region of the 16S rRNA bacterial gene, universal primers 515F and 806R enhanced by a 6 bp barcode identification sequence were used. The 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing strategy was used. Two microbial clusters were identified among the analyzed samples—the first cluster was based on Actinobacteria and Firmicutes, while the second cluster contained a high prevalence of Fusobacteria. Abstract Bacterial contamination of semen is an important factor connected to the health status of bulls that may significantly affect semen quality for artificial insemination. Moreover, some important bovine diseases may be transmitted through semen. Up to now, only a very limited number of complex studies describing the semen microbiome of bulls have been published, as many bacteria are hard to cultivate using traditional techniques. The 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing strategy allows for the reliable identification of bacterial profiles of bovine semen together with the detection of noncultivable bacterial species. Fresh samples from Holstein Friesian breeding bulls (n = 55) were examined for the natural variability in the present bacteria. Semen doses were selected randomly from Slovak Biological Services in Nitra, Slovak Republic. The most predominant phyla within the whole dataset were Firmicutes (31%), Proteobacteria (22%), Fusobacteria (18%), Actinobacteria (13%) and Bacteroidetes (12%). Samples of semen were divided into two separate clusters according to their microbiome compositions using a cording partition around a medoids analysis. Microbiomes of the first cluster (CL1) of samples (n = 20) were based on Actinobacteria (CL1 average = 25%; CL = 28%) and Firmicutes (CL1 = 38%; CL2 = 27%), while the second cluster (CL2; n = 35) contained samples characterized by a high prevalence of Fusobacteria (CL1 = 4%; CL2 = 26%). Some important indicator microbial groups were differentially distributed between the clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juraj Medo
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Institute of Biotechnology, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia;
| | - Jana Žiarovská
- Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Institute of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
- Correspondence:
| | - Michal Ďuračka
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Institute of Applied Biology, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (M.Ď.); (E.T.); (Š.B.)
| | - Eva Tvrdá
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Institute of Applied Biology, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (M.Ď.); (E.T.); (Š.B.)
| | - Štefan Baňas
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Institute of Applied Biology, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (M.Ď.); (E.T.); (Š.B.)
| | - Michal Gábor
- Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Institute of Nutrition and Genomics, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia;
| | - Matúš Kyseľ
- Research Centre AgroBioTech, Laboratory of Agrobiodiversity and Genetic Technologies, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia;
| | - Miroslava Kačániová
- Faculty of Horticulture and Landscape Engineering, Institute of Horticulture, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia;
- Department of Bioenergetics, Food Analysis and Microbiology, Institute of Food Technology and Nutrition, University of Rzeszow, Cwiklinskiej 1, 35-601 Rzeszow, Poland
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Rivera VV, Cardona Maya WD, Suárez JP. The relationship between sexually transmitted bacteria, microbiota and seminal quality in asymptomatic men. Asian J Urol 2021; 9:473-479. [PMID: 36381602 PMCID: PMC9643280 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajur.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To detect DNA of different microorganisms, in semen samples from apparently healthy men and correlate their presence with seminal quality. Methods Semen samples from 81 healthy volunteers were collected, and semen parameters were analyzed. DNA extraction was performed using the phenol-chloroform technique, and the microorganisms were detected by the amplification of specific primers using polymerase chain reaction. Results DNA from at least one of the microorganisms was detected in 78 samples. The most frequent microorganism found in semen were: Lactobacillus spp. (70%), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (N. gonorrhoeae) (36%), Streptococcus epidermidis (64%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (56%), Staphylococcus aureus (32%), Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) (28%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (27%). The seminal parameters of all semen samples were over the lower reference values for normal semen analysis. To compare with negative samples, seminal volume was higher for the Escherichia coli positive samples and lower for Pseudomonas aeruginosa positive samples. Semen samples positive for Staphylococcus aureus had worse sperm morphology. The frequency of progressive motility was higher in positive samples for N. gonorrhoeae and C. trachomatis. Positive semen samples for C. trachomatis had a higher concentration per milliliter. Conclusion It is common to find microorganisms in semen of asymptomatic men, including those responsible for sexually transmitted infections. Antimicrobial treatment is recommended only in those individuals with a sexually transmitted infection (C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae) and always promote condom use.
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Aging, inflammation and DNA damage in the somatic testicular niche with idiopathic germ cell aplasia. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5205. [PMID: 34471128 PMCID: PMC8410861 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25544-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms associated with human germ cell aplasia in infertile men remain undefined. Here we perform single-cell transcriptome profiling to highlight differentially expressed genes and pathways in each somatic cell type in testes of men with idiopathic germ cell aplasia. We identify immaturity of Leydig cells, chronic tissue inflammation, fibrosis, and senescence phenotype of the somatic cells, as well markers of chronic inflammation in the blood. We find that deregulated expression of parentally imprinted genes in myoid and immature Leydig cells, with relevant changes in the ratio of Lamin A/C transcripts and an active DNA damage response in Leydig and peritubular myoid cells are also indicative of senescence of the testicular niche. This study offers molecular insights into the pathogenesis of idiopathic germ cell aplasia. Molecular mechanisms associated with human germ cell aplasia in infertile men remain undefined. Here the authors perform single-cell transcriptome profiling to highlight differentially expressed genes and pathways in each somatic cell type in testes of men with idiopathic germ cell aplasia.
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Martinez-Vidal L, Murdica V, Venegoni C, Pederzoli F, Bandini M, Necchi A, Salonia A, Alfano M. Causal contributors to tissue stiffness and clinical relevance in urology. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1011. [PMID: 34446834 PMCID: PMC8390675 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02539-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanomedicine is an emerging field focused on characterizing mechanical changes in cells and tissues coupled with a specific disease. Understanding the mechanical cues that drive disease progression, and whether tissue stiffening can precede disease development, is crucial in order to define new mechanical biomarkers to improve and develop diagnostic and prognostic tools. Classically known stromal regulators, such as fibroblasts, and more recently acknowledged factors such as the microbiome and extracellular vesicles, play a crucial role in modifications to the stroma and extracellular matrix (ECM). These modifications ultimately lead to an alteration of the mechanical properties (stiffness) of the tissue, contributing to disease onset and progression. We describe here classic and emerging mediators of ECM remodeling, and discuss state-of-the-art studies characterizing mechanical fingerprints of urological diseases, showing a general trend between increased tissue stiffness and severity of disease. Finally, we point to the clinical potential of tissue stiffness as a diagnostic and prognostic factor in the urological field, as well as a possible target for new innovative drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Martinez-Vidal
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy.
| | - Valentina Murdica
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Venegoni
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo Pederzoli
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Bandini
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Salonia
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Alfano
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
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Molina NM, Plaza-Díaz J, Vilchez-Vargas R, Sola-Leyva A, Vargas E, Mendoza-Tesarik R, Galán-Lázaro M, Mendoza-Ladrón de Guevara N, Tesarik J, Altmäe S. Assessing the testicular sperm microbiome: a low-biomass site with abundant contamination. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:523-531. [PMID: 34344601 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION The semen harbours a diverse range of microorganisms. The origin of the seminal microbes, however, has not yet been established. Do testicular spermatozoa harbour microbes and could they potentially contribute to the seminal microbiome composition? DESIGN The study included 24 samples, comprising a total of 307 testicular maturing spermatozoa. A high-throughput sequencing method targeting V3 and V4 regions of 16S rRNA gene was applied. A series of negative controls together with stringent in-silico decontamination methods were analysed. RESULTS Between 50 and 70% of all the detected bacterial reads accounted for contamination in the testicular sperm samples. After stringent decontamination, Blautia (P = 0.04), Cellulosibacter (P = 0.02), Clostridium XIVa (P = 0.01), Clostridium XIVb (P = 0.04), Clostridium XVIII (P = 0.02), Collinsella (P = 0.005), Prevotella (P = 0.04), Prolixibacter (P = 0.02), Robinsoniella (P = 0.04), and Wandonia (P = 0.04) genera demonstrated statistically significant abundance among immature spermatozoa. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that the human testicle harbours potential bacterial signature, though in a low-biomass, and could contribute to the seminal microbiome composition. Further, applying stringent decontamination methods is crucial for analysing microbiome in low-biomass site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerea M Molina
- University of Granada, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Faculty of Sciences, Granada 18071, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada 18014, Spain
| | - Julio Plaza-Díaz
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada 18014, Spain; University of Granada, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Faculty of Pharmacy, Granada 18071, Spain; Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INYTA), 'José Mataix Verdú' Biomedical Research Centre (CIBM), University of Granada, Granada 18016, Spain; Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa ON K1H 8L1, Canada
| | - Ramiro Vilchez-Vargas
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Infectious Diseases, Otto von Guericke University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg 39120, Germany
| | - Alberto Sola-Leyva
- University of Granada, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Faculty of Sciences, Granada 18071, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada 18014, Spain
| | - Eva Vargas
- Systems Biology Unit, Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, University of Jaen, Jaen 23071, Spain
| | | | - Maribel Galán-Lázaro
- MARGen Clinic, Molecular Assisted Reproduction and Genetics, Granada 18006, Spain
| | | | - Jan Tesarik
- MARGen Clinic, Molecular Assisted Reproduction and Genetics, Granada 18006, Spain
| | - Signe Altmäe
- University of Granada, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Faculty of Sciences, Granada 18071, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada 18014, Spain; Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu 50410, Estonia.
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Su Y, He L, Hu Z, Li Y, Zhang Y, Fan Z, Zhao K, Zhang H, Liu C. Obesity Causes Abrupt Changes in the Testicular Microbiota and Sperm Motility of Zebrafish. Front Immunol 2021; 12:639239. [PMID: 34248933 PMCID: PMC8268156 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.639239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Obesity is a recognized risk factor for low fertility and is becoming increasingly prevalent in many countries around the world. Obesity changes intestinal microbiota composition, causes inflammation of various organs, and also reduces sperm quality. Several microorganisms are present in the testis. However, whether obesity affects the changes of testicular microbiota and whether these changes are related to reduced fertility in obese men remain to be elucidated. Methods In the present study, a zebrafish obesity model was established by feeding with egg yolk powder. Sperm motility was measured by the Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis system, testicular microbial communities was assessed via 16s RNA sequencing, the immune response in zebrafish testis was quantified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the testicular tissue structure was detected by electron microscopy and hematoxylin–eosin staining. Results Compared with the control group, zebrafish sperm motility was dramatically reduced, the expression of testicular proinflammatory cytokines in the testes was upregulated, and the blood–testis barrier structure was disrupted in the obese group. In addition, testicular microbiome composition was clearly altered in the obese group. Conclusion Obesity alters testicular microbiota composition, and the reason behind the decreased sperm motility in obese zebrafish may be related to changes in the testicular microbial communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufang Su
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, HuaZhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Department of Oncology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, China
| | - Liting He
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, HuaZhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhiyong Hu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, HuaZhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Li
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, HuaZhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zunpan Fan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, HuaZhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, HuaZhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, HuaZhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, HuaZhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Ventimiglia E, Pozzi E, Alfano M, Montorsi F, Salonia A. Re: Scott D. Lundy, Naseer Sangwan, Neel V. Parekh, et al. Functional and Taxonomic Dysbiosis of the Gut, Urine, and Semen Microbiomes in Male Infertility. Eur Urol 2021;79:826-36. Eur Urol 2021; 80:e53-e54. [PMID: 34024650 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2021.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Ventimiglia
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, Urological Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Edoardo Pozzi
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, Urological Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy; Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Alfano
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, Urological Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Montorsi
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, Urological Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy; Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Salonia
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, Urological Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy; Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy.
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Lundy SD, Vij SC, Eng C. Reply to Eugenio Ventimiglia, Edoardo Pozzi, Massimo Alfano, Francesco Montorsi, and Andrea Salonia's Letter to the Editor re: Scott D. Lundy, Naseer Sangwan, Neel V. Parekh, et al. Functional and Taxonomic Dysbiosis of the Gut, Urine, and Semen Microbiomes in Male Infertility. Eur Urol 2021;79:826-36. Eur Urol 2021; 80:e55-e56. [PMID: 33994216 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2021.04.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Scott D Lundy
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Sarah C Vij
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Charis Eng
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences and Germline High Risk Cancer Focus Group, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Cooke CG, Gibb Z, Harnett JE. The Safety, Tolerability and Efficacy of Probiotic Bacteria for Equine Use. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 99:103407. [PMID: 33781424 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Probiotic bacteria are used widely as nutritional supplements and treatment interventions in the management of livestock and companion animals. The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence reporting on the safety, tolerability and efficacy of probiotic bacteria use in horses. An online search of five databases for studies reporting on the use of probiotic bacteria use in horses which were either healthy or had a gastrointestinal or extraintestinal disease was conducted. A total of 18 articles were eligible for full review. No clear benefits were identified to support supplementation of equids with probiotic bacteria to improve starch and fiber digestion, nor for the treatment of colic or prevention of salmonellosis. Conflicting results were seen with the management of scouring in neonatal foals. Exacerbation of diarrhea and additional adverse events were reported in response to the administration of high doses of novel probiotic bacterial species. Probiotic bacteria given to exercising horses, improved aerobic fitness and stamina. The majority of probiotic bacterial species used in equine studies are bacterial species commonly used for human consumption and indigenous to the human gastrointestinal microbiota. There is a paucity of evidence to support the use of probiotic bacteria in the health maintenance and disease management of horses. While there are unclear and conflicting results associated with probiotic bacteria use for gastrointestinal conditions in both horses and foals, the administration of multistrain bacterial formulations to increase stamina in exercising horses shows promise.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Giselle Cooke
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Pharmacy, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Zamira Gibb
- Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Joanna E Harnett
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Pharmacy, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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50
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Lundy SD, Sangwan N, Parekh NV, Selvam MKP, Gupta S, McCaffrey P, Bessoff K, Vala A, Agarwal A, Sabanegh ES, Vij SC, Eng C. Functional and Taxonomic Dysbiosis of the Gut, Urine, and Semen Microbiomes in Male Infertility. Eur Urol 2021; 79:826-836. [PMID: 33573862 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2021.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the role of the genitourinary and gastrointestinal microbiota in the pathogenesis of male infertility. OBJECTIVE To compare the taxonomic and functional profiles of the gut, semen, and urine microbiomes of infertile and fertile men. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS We prospectively enrolled 25 men with primary idiopathic infertility and 12 healthy men with proven paternity, and we collected rectal swabs, semen samples, midstream urine specimens, and experimental controls. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS We performed comprehensive semen analysis, 16S rRNA sequencing for quantitative high-resolution taxonomy, and shotgun metagenomics with a median of 140 million reads per sample for functional metabolic pathway profiling. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS We identified a diverse semen microbiome with modest similarity to the urinary microbiome. Infertile men harbored increased seminal α-diversity and distinct β-diversity, increased seminal Aerococcus, and decreased rectal Anaerococcus. Prevotella abundance was inversely associated with sperm concentration, and Pseudomonas was directly associated with total motile sperm count. Vasectomy appeared to alter the seminal microbiome, suggesting a testicular or epididymal contribution. Anaerobes were highly over-represented in the semen of infertile men with a varicocele, but oxidative stress and leukocytospermia were associated with only subtle differences. Metagenomics data identified significant alterations in the S-adenosyl-L-methionine cycle, which may play a multifaceted role in the pathogenesis of infertility via DNA methylation, oxidative stress, and/or polyamine synthesis. CONCLUSIONS This pilot study represents the first comprehensive investigation into the microbiome in male infertility. These findings provide the foundation for future investigations to explore causality and identify novel microbiome-based diagnostics and therapeutics for men with this complex and emotionally devastating disease. PATIENT SUMMARY We explored the resident populations of bacteria living in the gut, semen, and urine of infertile and fertile men. We found several important bacterial and metabolic pathway differences with the potential to aid in diagnosing and treating male infertility in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott D Lundy
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Naseer Sangwan
- Center for Microbiome and Human Health, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Neel V Parekh
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Sajal Gupta
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | | | | | - Ashok Agarwal
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Edmund S Sabanegh
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Sarah C Vij
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Charis Eng
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences and Germline High Risk Cancer Focus Group, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
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