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Vashisht A, Gahlay GK. Understanding seminal plasma in male infertility: emerging markers and their implications. Andrology 2024; 12:1058-1077. [PMID: 38018348 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Infertility affects a significant proportion of the reproductive-aged population, with male-associated factors contributing to over half of the cases. However, current diagnostic tools have limitations, leading to an underestimation of the true prevalence of male infertility. While traditional semen parameters provide some insights, they fail to determine the true fertility potential in a substantial number of instances. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate additional molecular targets responsible for male infertility to improve understanding and identification of such cases. Seminal plasma, the main carrier of molecules derived from male reproductive glands, plays a crucial role in reproduction. Amongst its multifarious functions, it regulates processes such as sperm capacitation, sperm protection and maturation, and even interaction with the egg's zona pellucida. Seminal plasma offers a non-invasive sample for urogenital diagnostics and has shown promise in identifying biomarkers associated with male reproductive disorders. This review aims to provide an updated and comprehensive overview of seminal plasma in the diagnosis of male infertility, exploring its composition, function, methods used for analysis, and the application of emerging markers. Apart from the application, the potential challenges of seminal plasma analysis such as standardisation, marker interpretation and confounding factors have also been addressed. Moreover, we have also explored future avenues for enhancing its utility and its role in improving diagnostic strategies. Through comprehensive exploration of seminal plasma's diagnostic potential, the present analysis seeks to advance the understanding of male infertility and its effective management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashutosh Vashisht
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
| | - Gagandeep Kaur Gahlay
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
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2
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Mariani NAP, Silva JV, Fardilha M, Silva EJR. Advances in non-hormonal male contraception targeting sperm motility. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:545-569. [PMID: 37141450 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad008] [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: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The high rates of unintended pregnancy and the ever-growing world population impose health, economic, social, and environmental threats to countries. Expanding contraceptive options, including male methods, are urgently needed to tackle these global challenges. Male contraception is limited to condoms and vasectomy, which are unsuitable for many couples. Thus, novel male contraceptive methods may reduce unintended pregnancies, meet the contraceptive needs of couples, and foster gender equality in carrying the contraceptive burden. In this regard, the spermatozoon emerges as a source of druggable targets for on-demand, non-hormonal male contraception based on disrupting sperm motility or fertilization. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE A better understanding of the molecules governing sperm motility can lead to innovative approaches toward safe and effective male contraceptives. This review discusses cutting-edge knowledge on sperm-specific targets for male contraception, focusing on those with crucial roles in sperm motility. We also highlight challenges and opportunities in male contraceptive drug development targeting spermatozoa. SEARCH METHODS We conducted a literature search in the PubMed database using the following keywords: 'spermatozoa', 'sperm motility', 'male contraception', and 'drug targets' in combination with other related terms to the field. Publications until January 2023 written in English were considered. OUTCOMES Efforts for developing non-hormonal strategies for male contraception resulted in the identification of candidates specifically expressed or enriched in spermatozoa, including enzymes (PP1γ2, GAPDHS, and sAC), ion channels (CatSper and KSper), transmembrane transporters (sNHE, SLC26A8, and ATP1A4), and surface proteins (EPPIN). These targets are usually located in the sperm flagellum. Their indispensable roles in sperm motility and male fertility were confirmed by genetic or immunological approaches using animal models and gene mutations associated with male infertility due to sperm defects in humans. Their druggability was demonstrated by the identification of drug-like small organic ligands displaying spermiostatic activity in preclinical trials. WIDER IMPLICATIONS A wide range of sperm-associated proteins has arisen as key regulators of sperm motility, providing compelling druggable candidates for male contraception. Nevertheless, no pharmacological agent has reached clinical developmental stages. One reason is the slow progress in translating the preclinical and drug discovery findings into a drug-like candidate adequate for clinical development. Thus, intense collaboration among academia, private sectors, governments, and regulatory agencies will be crucial to combine expertise for the development of male contraceptives targeting sperm function by (i) improving target structural characterization and the design of highly selective ligands, (ii) conducting long-term preclinical safety, efficacy, and reversibility evaluation, and (iii) establishing rigorous guidelines and endpoints for clinical trials and regulatory evaluation, thus allowing their testing in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemia A P Mariani
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Joana V Silva
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Erick J R Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
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3
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Gomes AAS, Santos NCM, Rosa LR, Borges RJ, Fontes MRM, Hamil KG, O'Rand MG, Silva EJR. Interactions of the male contraceptive target EPPIN with semenogelin-1 and small organic ligands. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14382. [PMID: 37658081 PMCID: PMC10474283 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41365-1] [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: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Novel male contraceptives will promote gender equality in sharing contraceptive responsibility. The sperm-associated protein epididymal protease inhibitor (EPPIN) is a promising target for non-hormonal male contraception. EPPIN interacts with the semen coagulum protein semenogelin-1 (SEMG1) on the sperm surface, leading to transient inhibition of sperm motility after ejaculation. Small organic molecules targeting EPPIN's SEMG1-binding are under development as male contraceptives. Here, we combined computational approaches to uncover key aspects underlying EPPIN binding to SEMG1 and small organic ligands. We generated a human EPPIN model showing a typical arrangement of the WFDC (Whey-acid four disulfide core)-type and Kunitz-type domains, connected by a hinge region. Determining the EPPIN model's intrinsic motion by molecular dynamics simulations and normal mode analysis revealed a conformation, presenting a binding pocket that accommodates SEMG1Glu229-Gln247, EP055, and EP012. EPPIN's residues Phe63 and Lys68 (WFDC domain), Asp71 (hinge region), and Asn113, Asn114, and Asn115 (Kunitz domain) were identified as hot spots for SEMG1, EP055, and EP012 binding. Moreover, hydrophobic and hydrophilic residues in the WFDC and Kunitz domains allow plasma membrane anchoring, orienting the EPPIN binding pocket to the solvent. Targeting EPPIN's essential residues for its biomolecular interactions may improve the rational design of EPPIN ligands as spermiostatic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoniel A S Gomes
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Biological Physics, Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Natália C M Santos
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Leonardo R Rosa
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Rafael J Borges
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
- The Center of Medicinal Chemistry (CQMED), Center for Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering (CBMEG), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Marcos R M Fontes
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
- Institute for Advanced Studies of the Sea (IEAMAR), São Paulo State University, UNESP, São Vicente, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Michael G O'Rand
- Research and Development, Eppin Pharma Inc., Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Erick J R Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
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The Association between Clusterin Sialylation Degree and Levels of Oxidative–Antioxidant Balance Markers in Seminal Plasmas and Blood Sera of Male Partners with Abnormal Sperm Parameters. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810598. [PMID: 36142505 PMCID: PMC9501354 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nearly 30% of infertility cases are caused by male factor. This study aimed at checking the associations between the sialylation degree of glycoprotein clusterin (CLU) and levels of oxidative–antioxidant balance markers in infertile men. Using lectin-ELISA with biotinylated lectins specific to α2,6-linked (Sambucus nigra agglutinin, SNA) and α2,3-linked (Maackia amurensis agglutinin, MAA) sialic acid (SA), the CLU sialylation in 132 seminal plasmas (SP) and 91 blood sera (BS) were analyzed. Oxidative–antioxidant status was measured by determining Sirtuin-3 (SIRT3), Sirtuin-5 (SIRT5), total antioxidant status (TAS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) levels. We indicate that multiple sperm disorders are associated with decreased expression of MAA-reactive SA in SP. Decreased SP SIRT3 concentrations may be associated with teratozoospermia and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia. ROC curve and cluster analysis revealed that SP relative reactivity of CLU glycans with MAA, the value of MAA/SNA ratio, and SIRT3 and SIRT5 concentrations may constitute an additional set of markers differentiating infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic patients (OAT) from normozoospermic (N), asthenoteratozoospermic (AT) and teratozoospermic (T). The multinomial logistic regression analysis confirmed the potential utility of SIRT3 determinations for differentiation between N and OAT groups as well as between N and T groups for SIRT3 and SIRT5. For BS, based on ROC curve and cluster analysis, relative reactivities of CLU glycans with SNA, MAA, SIRT3 and FRAP concentrations may be useful in the differentiation of normozoospermic patients from those with sperm disorders. The multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that the SNA relative reactivity with CLU glycans significantly differentiated the N group from AT, OAT and T groups, and FRAP concentrations significantly differed between N and AT groups, which additionally confirms the potential utility of these biomarkers in the differentiation of infertile patients with abnormal sperm parameters. The knowledge about associations between examined parameters may also influence future research aimed at seeking new male infertility therapies.
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5
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Liu H, Song X, Huang M, Zhan H, Wang S, Zhu S, Pang T, Zhang X, Zeng Q. Ureaplasma urealyticum induces polymorphonuclear elastase to change semen properties and reduce sperm motility: a prospective observational study. J Int Med Res 2022; 50:3000605221106410. [PMID: 35701892 PMCID: PMC9208062 DOI: 10.1177/03000605221106410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To elucidate the mechanism underlying how Ureaplasma urealyticum (UU) affects sperm quality and identify a therapeutic target. Methods In this prospective observational study, the differences in and relationships among semen volume, pH, viscosity, liquefaction time, sperm concentration, sperm motility [progressive motility (PR)], and seminal polymorphonuclear (PMN) elastase were analyzed in 198 normal semen samples (control group) and 198 UU-infected semen samples (observation group). The UU-infected samples were treated and the above parameters were compared between the two groups. Results The semen volume, viscosity, liquefaction time, and seminal PMN elastase were significantly higher in the observation than control group, but the pH and PR were significantly lower. In the observation group, the pH and PR were significantly higher after than before treatment, whereas the semen volume, PMN elastase, viscosity, and liquefaction time were lower. UU was closely related to semen volume, pH, viscosity, liquefaction time, sperm motility (PR), and PMN elastase. PMN elastase had significant negative effects on semen pH and sperm motility (PR) but positive effects on viscosity and liquefaction time. Conclusion UU might induce PMN elastase to increase the liquefaction time and viscosity of semen, eventually decreasing PR. PMN elastase might be a therapeutic target of UU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huang Liu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Andrology, NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiaoyan Song
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Mulan Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Huashen Zhan
- Reproductive Center, Sanming Integrated Medicine Hospital, Sanming, Fujian Province, China
| | - Shiyang Wang
- Reproductive Center, The Second People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Shenghui Zhu
- Department of Andrology, NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Tao Pang
- Department of Andrology, NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xinzong Zhang
- Department of Andrology, NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qingqi Zeng
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Jiangsu Health Vocational College, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
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Vickram S, Rohini K, Anbarasu K, Dey N, Jeyanthi P, Thanigaivel S, Issac PK, Arockiaraj J. Semenogelin, a coagulum macromolecule monitoring factor involved in the first step of fertilization: A prospective review. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 209:951-962. [PMID: 35447263 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.04.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Human male infertility affects approximately 1/10 couples worldwide, and its prevalence is found more in developed countries. Along with sperm cells, the secretions of the prostate, seminal vesicle and epididymis plays a major role in proper fertilization. Many studies have proven the functions of seminal vesicle secretions, especially semenogelin protein, as an optimiser for fertilization. Semenogelin provides the structural components for coagulum formation after ejaculation. It binds with eppin and is found to have major functions like motility of sperm, transporting the sperm safely in the immune rich female reproductive tract until the sperm cells reach the egg intact. The capacitation process is essential for proper fertilization and semenogelin involved in mediating capacitation in time. Also, it has control of events towards the first step in the fertilization process. It is a Zn ions binding protein, and Zn ions act as a cofactor that helps in the proper motility of sperm cells. Therefore, any imbalance in protein that automatically affect sperm physiology and fertility status. This review sheds a comprehensive and critical view on the significant functions of semenogelin in fertilization. This review can open up advanced proteomics research on semenogelin towards unravelling molecular mechanisms in fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sundaram Vickram
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Karunakaran Rohini
- Unit of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, Semeling, Bedong 08100, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Krishnan Anbarasu
- Department of Bioinformatics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nibedita Dey
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Institute of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Palanivelu Jeyanthi
- Department of Biotechnology, Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600 062, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sundaram Thanigaivel
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Praveen Kumar Issac
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Institute of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jesu Arockiaraj
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603 203 Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
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7
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Bisconti M, Simon JF, Grassi S, Leroy B, Martinet B, Arcolia V, Isachenko V, Hennebert E. Influence of Risk Factors for Male Infertility on Sperm Protein Composition. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13164. [PMID: 34884971 PMCID: PMC8658491 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a common health problem that can be influenced by a host of lifestyle risk factors such as environment, nutrition, smoking, stress, and endocrine disruptors. These effects have been largely demonstrated on sperm parameters (e.g., motility, numeration, vitality, DNA integrity). In addition, several studies showed the deregulation of sperm proteins in relation to some of these factors. This review inventories the literature related to the identification of sperm proteins showing abundance variations in response to the four risk factors for male infertility that are the most investigated in this context: obesity, diabetes, tobacco smoking, and exposure to bisphenol-A (BPA). First, we provide an overview of the techniques used to identify deregulated proteins. Then, we summarise the main results obtained in the different studies and provide a compiled list of deregulated proteins in relation to each risk factor. Gene ontology analysis of these deregulated proteins shows that oxidative stress and immune and inflammatory responses are common mechanisms involved in sperm alterations encountered in relation to the risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Bisconti
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 20, 7000 Mons, Belgium; (M.B.); (S.G.); (E.H.)
| | - Jean-François Simon
- Fertility Clinic, CHU Ambroise Paré Hospital, Boulevard Kennedy 2, 7000 Mons, Belgium; (J.-F.S.); (V.A.)
| | - Sarah Grassi
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 20, 7000 Mons, Belgium; (M.B.); (S.G.); (E.H.)
| | - Baptiste Leroy
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Microbiology, CISMa, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, 7000 Mons, Belgium;
| | - Baptiste Martinet
- Evolutionary Biology & Ecology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Avenue Paul Héger, CP 160/12, 1000 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Vanessa Arcolia
- Fertility Clinic, CHU Ambroise Paré Hospital, Boulevard Kennedy 2, 7000 Mons, Belgium; (J.-F.S.); (V.A.)
| | - Vladimir Isachenko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cologne, Kerpener Strasse 34, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Elise Hennebert
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 20, 7000 Mons, Belgium; (M.B.); (S.G.); (E.H.)
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Silva AAS, Raimundo TRF, Mariani NAP, Kushima H, Avellar MCW, Buffone MG, Paula-Lopes FF, Moura MT, Silva EJR. Dissecting EPPIN protease inhibitor domains in sperm motility and fertilizing ability: repercussions for male contraceptive development. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaab066. [PMID: 34792600 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
EPPIN (epididymal protease inhibitor) is a mammalian conserved sperm-binding protein displaying an N-terminal WFDC (whey-acidic protein four-disulfide core) and a C-terminal Kunitz protease inhibitor domains. EPPIN plays a key role in regulating sperm motility after ejaculation via interaction with the seminal plasma protein SEMG1 (semenogelin-1). EPPIN ligands targeting the SEMG1 binding site in the Kunitz domain are under development as male contraceptive drugs. Nevertheless, the relative contributions of EPPIN WFDC and Kunitz domains to sperm function remain obscure. Here, we evaluated the effects of antibodies targeting specific epitopes in EPPIN's WFDC (Q20E antibody, Gln20-Glu39 epitope) and Kunitz (S21C and F21C antibodies, Ser103-Cys123 and Phe90-C110 epitopes, respectively) domains on mouse sperm motility and fertilizing ability. Computer-assisted sperm analysis showed that sperm co-incubation with S21C antibody (but not F21C antibody) lowered progressive and hyperactivated motilities and impaired kinematic parameters describing progressive (straight-line velocity; VSL, average path velocity; VAP and straightness; STR) and vigorous sperm movements (curvilinear velocity; VCL, amplitude of lateral head movement; ALH, and linearity; LIN) compared with control. Conversely, Q20E antibody-induced milder inhibition of progressive motility and kinematic parameters (VAP, VCL and ALH). Sperm co-incubation with S21C or Q20E antibodies affected in vitro fertilization as revealed by reduced cleavage rates, albeit without changes in capacitation-induced tyrosine phosphorylation. In conclusion, we show that targeting specific epitopes in EPPIN Kunitz and WFDC domains inhibits sperm motility and capacitation-associated events, which decrease their fertilizing ability; nevertheless, similar observations in vivo remain to be demonstrated. Simultaneously targeting residues in S21C and Q20E epitopes is a promising approach for the rational design of EPPIN-based ligands with spermostatic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan A S Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Tamiris R F Raimundo
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Noemia A P Mariani
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Hélio Kushima
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Christina W Avellar
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo-SP, Brazil
| | - Mariano G Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fabíola F Paula-Lopes
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Campus Diadema, Diadema-SP, Brazil
| | - Marcelo T Moura
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Campus Diadema, Diadema-SP, Brazil
| | - Erick J R Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-SP, Brazil
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9
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The possible association of clusterin fucosylation changes with male fertility disorders. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15674. [PMID: 34341430 PMCID: PMC8329075 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95288-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In the seminal plasma (n = 118) and serum (n = 90) clusterin (CLU) the fucosylation and the expression of selected fucosyltransferases (FUTs) were analyzed. Samples from infertile men were divided into groups based on the results of the standard semen analysis: normozoospermic (N), teratozoospermic (T), asthenoteratozoospermic (AT) and oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT). The CLU fucosylation was analyzed using lectin-ELISAs with biotinylated lectins specific to α1,3-, α1,2-linked antennary fucose, and α1,6-linked core fucose (LTA, UEA, and LCA, respectively). The concentrations of FUT3 and FUT4, reflecting the expression of Le oligosaccharide structures, were measured using ELISA tests. The differences in serum CLU and FUT4 concentrations, and in the expression of core fucose and antennary fucose α1,2-linked in CLU glycans between the N group and other groups examined suggest that the disturbances in sperm count, motility, and morphology are not the only cause of male infertility. Lack of similarities between levels of examined parameters in blood serum and seminal plasma may suggest the differences in mechanisms leading to glycoproteins glycosylation. It confirmed the observed differences in concentrations of seminal plasma CLU, FUT3, and FUT4 between the OAT group and N, T, AT groups, indicating that decreased sperm count may be related to these parameters expression. The serum CLU concentrations and expression of core fucose and fucose α1,2-linked in CLU, seem to be good markers differentiating normozoospermic men from those with abnormal sperm parameters, which was not observed for seminal plasma.
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10
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Xu J, He M, Wang W, Hou J, Chen X, Ding X, Zhang J. siRNA-mediated Eppin testicular silencing causes changes in sperm motility and calcium currents in mice. Reprod Biol 2021; 21:100485. [PMID: 33607572 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2021.100485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Epididymal protease inhibitor (EPPIN) is differentially expressed in the reproductive tissues (such as testicles, outlet tubes, epididymis, vas deferens, and seminal vesicles). Its critical role in sperm function and male reproduction has shed light on EPPIN as a candidate target for male contraceptive vaccines. In this study, we endeavored to further reveal the mechanism through which EPPIN exerts its function. We created a mouse model of reduced Eppin expression by microinjecting small interfering RNA targeting Eppin expression into seminiferous tubules of mice. This mouse model was then used to explore the effects of low Eppin expression on sperm function, which was assessed by Computer Assisted Semen Analysis and patch clamp recording of T-type Ca2+ current in spermatogenic cells. We found that the sperm motility significantly declined when Eppin was downregulated. Further investigation demonstrated that Eppin downregulation significantly affected T-type Ca2+ currents and messenger RNA expression of three subtypes of T-type Ca2+ channels in spermatogenic cells. These findings indicate that low Eppin gene expression induces decreased T-type Ca2+ currents and mRNA expression, which in turn results in the reduced sperm motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Xu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Mengting He
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiaojiao Hou
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyi Chen
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xinliang Ding
- Department of Public Health, Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi, China.
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
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11
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Lan R, Xin M, Hao Z, You S, Xu Y, Wu J, Dang L, Zhang X, Sun S. Biological Functions and Large-Scale Profiling of Protein Glycosylation in Human Semen. J Proteome Res 2020; 19:3877-3889. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.9b00795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rongxia Lan
- College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province 710069, P. R. China
| | - Miaomiao Xin
- College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province 710069, P. R. China
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, Vodnany 38925, Czech Republic
| | - Zhifang Hao
- College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province 710069, P. R. China
| | - Shanshan You
- College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province 710069, P. R. China
| | - Yintai Xu
- College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province 710069, P. R. China
| | - Jingyu Wu
- College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province 710069, P. R. China
| | - Liuyi Dang
- College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province 710069, P. R. China
| | - Xinwen Zhang
- The Medical Genetics Centre, Xi 'an People's Hospital (Xi 'an Fourth Hospital), Xi’an Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province 710004, P. R. China
| | - Shisheng Sun
- College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province 710069, P. R. China
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12
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Robertson MJ, Kent K, Tharp N, Nozawa K, Dean L, Mathew M, Grimm SL, Yu Z, Légaré C, Fujihara Y, Ikawa M, Sullivan R, Coarfa C, Matzuk MM, Garcia TX. Large-scale discovery of male reproductive tract-specific genes through analysis of RNA-seq datasets. BMC Biol 2020; 18:103. [PMID: 32814578 PMCID: PMC7436996 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-020-00826-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The development of a safe, effective, reversible, non-hormonal contraceptive method for men has been an ongoing effort for the past few decades. However, despite significant progress on elucidating the function of key proteins involved in reproduction, understanding male reproductive physiology is limited by incomplete information on the genes expressed in reproductive tissues, and no contraceptive targets have so far reached clinical trials. To advance product development, further identification of novel reproductive tract-specific genes leading to potentially druggable protein targets is imperative. Results In this study, we expand on previous single tissue, single species studies by integrating analysis of publicly available human and mouse RNA-seq datasets whose initial published purpose was not focused on identifying male reproductive tract-specific targets. We also incorporate analysis of additional newly acquired human and mouse testis and epididymis samples to increase the number of targets identified. We detected a combined total of 1178 genes for which no previous evidence of male reproductive tract-specific expression was annotated, many of which are potentially druggable targets. Through RT-PCR, we confirmed the reproductive tract-specific expression of 51 novel orthologous human and mouse genes without a reported mouse model. Of these, we ablated four epididymis-specific genes (Spint3, Spint4, Spint5, and Ces5a) and two testis-specific genes (Pp2d1 and Saxo1) in individual or double knockout mice generated through the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Our results validate a functional requirement for Spint4/5 and Ces5a in male mouse fertility, while demonstrating that Spint3, Pp2d1, and Saxo1 are each individually dispensable for male mouse fertility. Conclusions Our work provides a plethora of novel testis- and epididymis-specific genes and elucidates the functional requirement of several of these genes, which is essential towards understanding the etiology of male infertility and the development of male contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Robertson
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Katarzyna Kent
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, TX, 77058, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Nathan Tharp
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, TX, 77058, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kaori Nozawa
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Laura Dean
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, TX, 77058, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Michelle Mathew
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, TX, 77058, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sandra L Grimm
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zhifeng Yu
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Christine Légaré
- Department Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Reproduction, Mother and Youth Health Division, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, 2705 boul Laurier, Quebec, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Yoshitaka Fujihara
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Department of Bioscience and Genetics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, 6-1 Kishibeshinmachi, Suita, Osaka, 564-8565, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Robert Sullivan
- Department Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Reproduction, Mother and Youth Health Division, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, 2705 boul Laurier, Quebec, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Cristian Coarfa
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Thomas X Garcia
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, TX, 77058, USA. .,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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13
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Anamthathmakula P, Winuthayanon W. Mechanism of semen liquefaction and its potential for a novel non-hormonal contraception†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:411-426. [PMID: 32529252 PMCID: PMC7523691 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Semen liquefaction is a proteolytic process where a gel-like ejaculated semen becomes watery due to the enzymatic activity of prostate-derived serine proteases in the female reproductive tract. The liquefaction process is crucial for the sperm to gain their motility and successful transport to the fertilization site in Fallopian tubes (or oviducts in animals). Hyperviscous semen or failure in liquefaction is one of the causes of male infertility. Therefore, the biochemical inhibition of serine proteases in the female reproductive tract after ejaculation is a prime target for novel contraceptive development. Herein, we will discuss protein components in the ejaculates responsible for semen liquefaction and any developments of contraceptive methods in the past that involve the liquefaction process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashanth Anamthathmakula
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Wipawee Winuthayanon
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
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14
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Mariani NAP, Camara AC, Silva AAS, Raimundo TRF, Andrade JJ, Andrade AD, Rossini BC, Marino CL, Kushima H, Santos LD, Silva EJR. Epididymal protease inhibitor (EPPIN) is a protein hub for seminal vesicle-secreted protein SVS2 binding in mouse spermatozoa. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 506:110754. [PMID: 32044375 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
EPPIN is a sperm-surface drug target for male contraception. Here we investigated EPPIN-interacting proteins in mouse spermatozoa. We showed that EPPIN is an androgen-dependent gene, expressed in the testis and epididymis, but also present in the vas deferens, seminal vesicle and adrenal gland. Mature spermatozoa presented EPPIN staining on the head and flagellum. Immunoprecipitation of EPPIN from spermatozoa pre-incubated with seminal vesicle fluid (SVF) followed by LC-MS/MS or Western blot revealed the co-immunoprecipitation of SVS2, SVS3A, SVS5 and SVS6. In silico and Far-Western blot approaches demonstrated that EPPIN binds SVS2 in a protein network with other SVS proteins. Immunofluorescence using spermatozoa pre-incubated with SVF or recombinant SVS2 demonstrated the co-localization of EPPIN and SVS2 both on sperm head and flagellum. Our data show that EPPIN's roles in sperm function are conserved between mouse and human, demonstrating that the mouse is a suitable experimental model for translational studies on EPPIN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemia A P Mariani
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Aline C Camara
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Alan Andrew S Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Tamiris R F Raimundo
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana J Andrade
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Alexandre D Andrade
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Bruno C Rossini
- Biotechnology Institute (IBTEC), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil; Department of Genetics, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Celso L Marino
- Biotechnology Institute (IBTEC), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil; Department of Genetics, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Hélio Kushima
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Lucilene D Santos
- Center for the Study of Venoms of Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil; Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - Erick J R Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu-SP, Brazil.
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15
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Kumar A, Sridharn TB, Rao KA. Role of Seminal Plasma Proteins in Effective Zygote Formation- A Success Road to Pregnancy. Protein Pept Lett 2019; 26:238-250. [PMID: 30734670 DOI: 10.2174/0929866526666190208112152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Seminal plasma proteins contributed by secretions of accessory glands plays a copious role in fertilization. Their role is overlooked for decades and even now, as Artificial Reproduction Techniques (ART) excludes the plasma components in the procedures. Recent evidences suggest the importance of these proteins starting from imparting fertility status to men, fertilization and till successful implantation of the conceptus in the female uterus. Seminal plasma is rich in diverse proteins, but a major part of the seminal plasma is constituted by very lesser number of proteins. This makes isolation and further research on non abundant protein a tough task. With the advent of much advanced proteomic techniques and bio informatics tools, studying the protein component of seminal plasma has become easy and promising. This review is focused on the role of seminal plasma proteins on various walks of fertilization process and thus, the possible exploitation of seminal plasma proteins for understanding the etiology of male related infertility issues. In addition, a compilation of seminal plasma proteins and their functions has been done.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana Kumar
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology University, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - T B Sridharn
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology University, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kamini A Rao
- BACCMILANN Fertility Center Bangalore, Karnataka, India
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16
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Hernández-Silva G, Fabián López-Araiza JE, López-Torres AS, Larrea F, Torres-Flores V, Chirinos M. Proteomic characterization of human sperm plasma membrane-associated proteins and their role in capacitation. Andrology 2019; 8:171-180. [PMID: 31002753 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasma membranes of ejaculated sperm are covered by epididymal and accessory glands secreted proteins that must be released from sperm surface during the female reproductive tract passage in order to capacitate and fertilize the oocyte. OBJECTIVES As human sperm plasma membrane-associated proteins (SMAP) have not yet been investigated, the aim of this study was to characterize the SMAP released during in vitro human capacitation and to study their possible role as decapacitation factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS SMAP were characterized by 2-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry analysis. Besides, we explored SMAP effects on motility, protein tyrosine phosphorylation, and calcium ionophore-induced acrosome reaction of spermatozoa either incubated for 6 h in capacitating medium ± SMAP or for 5 h in capacitating medium alone followed by incubation for 1 h ± SMAP. RESULTS Mass spectrometry analysis allowed the identification of 29 proteins, all of which have previously been identified in the human seminal fluid. Spermatozoa incubated for 6 h under capacitating conditions in the presence of the SMAP showed a significant decrease in the incidence of non-progressive motility, hyperactivation, protein tyrosine phosphorylation, and calcium ionophore-induced acrosome reaction. However, spermatozoa incubated for 5 h in capacitating medium and further incubated for 1 h with the SMAP showed a lower percentage of spermatozoa with non-progressive motility and hyperactivated cells but no effects on protein tyrosine phosphorylation were detected. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that SMAP inhibit the progress of human sperm capacitation, but only motility changes related to capacitation may be reversed by these proteins. The study of the identified proteins on sperm function and their mechanisms of action on this cell may contribute to the understanding of their role during capacitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Hernández-Silva
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, México.,Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | | | - Aideé Saray López-Torres
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Fernando Larrea
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Víctor Torres-Flores
- Laboratorio de Biomembranas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Mayel Chirinos
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, México
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17
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Panner Selvam MK, Agarwal A, Dias TR, Martins AD, Samanta L. Presence of Round Cells Proteins do not Interfere with Identification of Human Sperm Proteins from Frozen Semen Samples by LC-MS/MS. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20020314. [PMID: 30646561 PMCID: PMC6359632 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20020314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In sperm proteomic experiments round cells and leukocyte proteins are profiled along with sperm proteome. The influence of round cell and leukocyte proteins on the sperm proteome has not been investigated. The objective of this study was to identify if the proteins from round cells, including leukocytes, interfere with the proteomic analysis of spermatozoa in frozen semen samples. Proteomic profiling of sperm was performed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in four groups: Group 1 contained neat semen with round cells and leukocytes ≥ 1 × 106/mL, group 2 contained neat semen with round cells ≥ 1 × 106/mL that was processed by 65% density gradient to remove the round cells and leukocytes, group 3 contained neat semen with round cells < 1 × 106/mL, and group 4 contained neat semen with round cells < 1 × 106/mL that was processed by 65% density gradient to remove the round cells. Pure leukocyte culture was used as control group. A total of 1638, 1393, 1755, and 1404 proteins were identified in groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Comparative analysis of group 1 vs. 3 revealed 26 (1.18%) differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). On the other hand, only 6 (0.31%) DEPs were observed with group 2 vs. 4. Expression of these DEPs were either absent or very low in the control group. The results of our proteomics analysis failed to show any influence of non-spermatogenic round cell proteins on sperm proteome identification. These results validate the use of neat semen samples for sperm proteomic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
| | - Tânia R Dias
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
- Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal.
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Ana D Martins
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Luna Samanta
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
- Redox Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack 753003, India.
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18
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Abstract
SummarySpermatogenesis is a dynamic process that culminates in the production of mature spermatozoa in the seminiferous tubules of sexually mature animals. Although sperm leaving the testis are fully differentiated, they must further undergo two additional maturation steps before acquiring the capability to fertilize the egg. Such processes take place during the epididymal residency and transport in the seminal fluid during ejaculation and, after delivery into the female reproductive tract, during the journey aiming the encountering the egg in the oviduct. Throughout this trip, spermatozoa are exposed to different reproductive fluids whose molecular compositions regulate the progress towards obtaining a fertilized competent cell. This review summarizes the evidence obtained so far supporting the participation of male and female reproductive tract-derived proteins in the modulation of sperm fertilizing ability and discusses the mechanisms by which such regulation may be accomplished.
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Abstract
Today, a vast arsenal of contraceptive methods interfering at different levels of the female reproductive axis is available. This is not the case for men for whom, until now, there is no reliable male reversible method and for whom vasectomy, condom and withdrawal are the only options available. Despite this limited supply, more than one third of all contraceptive methods used worldwide rely on the cooperation of the male partner. Besides developing hormonal approaches to stop sperm production, there may be attractive approaches that will interfere with sperm functions rather than production. Sperm functions are primarily established during post-testicular maturation, with the epididymis accounting for the majority. The purpose of this review is to present some of the promising and/or already abandoned leads that emerge from research efforts targeting the epididymis and its activities as potential means to achieve male post-meiotic contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joël R. Drevet
- Laboratoire GReD “Génétique, Reproduction & Développement”, UMR CNRS 6293, INSERM U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne (UCA), 28-Place Henri Dunant, bâtiment CRBC, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
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20
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Bianchi L, Carnemolla C, Viviani V, Landi C, Pavone V, Luddi A, Piomboni P, Bini L. Soluble protein fraction of human seminal plasma. J Proteomics 2018; 174:85-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2017.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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21
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Saewu A, Kadunganattil S, Raghupathy R, Kongmanas K, Diaz-Astudillo P, Hermo L, Tanphaichitr N. Clusterin in the mouse epididymis: possible roles in sperm maturation and capacitation. Reproduction 2017; 154:867-880. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2017] [Revised: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Clusterin (CLU) is known as an extracellular chaperone for proteins under stress, thus preventing them from aggregation and precipitation. We showed herein that CLU, expressed by principal cells of the mouse caput epididymis, was present in high amounts in the lumen. In the cauda epididymis, CLU bound tightly to the sperm head surface and its amount on total sperm was similar to that in the bathing luminal fluid. In both immotile and motile caudal epididymal sperm, CLU was localized over the entire sperm head except at the convex ridge, although in the motile sperm population, the CLU immunofluorescence pattern was distinctively mottled with a lower intensity. However, when motile sperm became capacitated, CLU was relocalized to the head hook region, with immunofluorescence intensity being higher than that on the non-capacitated counterparts. Under a slightly acidic pH of the epididymal lumen, CLU may chaperone some luminal proteins and deliver them onto the sperm surface. Immunoprecipitation of epididymal fluid proteins indicated that CLU interacted with SED1, an important egg-binding protein present in a high amount in the epididymal lumen. In a number of non-capacitated sperm, fractions of SED1 and CLU co-localized, but after capacitation, SED1 and CLU dissociated from one another. While CLU moved to the sperm head hook, SED1 translocated to the head convex ridge, the egg-binding site. Overall, CLU localization patterns can serve as biomarkers of immotile sperm, and non-capacitated and capacitated sperm in mice. The chaperone role of CLU may also be important for sperm maturation and capacitation.
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22
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Gupta N, Sudhakar DVS, Gangwar PK, Sankhwar SN, Gupta NJ, Chakraborty B, Thangaraj K, Gupta G, Rajender S. Mutations in the prostate specific antigen (PSA/KLK3) correlate with male infertility. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11225. [PMID: 28894123 PMCID: PMC5593825 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10866-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate specific antigen (PSA/KLK3) is known to be the chief executor of the fragmentation of semenogelins, dissolution of semen coagulum, thereby releasing sperm for active motility. Recent research has found that semenogelins also play significant roles in sperm fertility by affecting hyaluronidase activity, capacitation and motility, thereby making PSA important for sperm fertility beyond simple semen liquefaction. PSA level in semen has been shown to correlate with sperm motility, suggesting that PSA level/activity can affect fertility. However, no study investigating the genetic variations in the KLK3/PSA gene in male fertility has been undertaken. We analyzed the complete coding region of the KLK3 gene in ethnically matched 875 infertile and 290 fertile men to find if genetic variations in KLK3 correlate with infertility. Interestingly, this study identified 28 substitutions, of which 8 were novel (not available in public databases). Statistical comparison of the genotype frequencies showed that five SNPs, rs266881 (OR = 2.92, P < 0.0001), rs174776 (OR = 1.91, P < 0.0001), rs266875 (OR = 1.44, P = 0.016), rs35192866 (OR = 4.48, P = 0.025) and rs1810020 (OR = 2.08, P = 0.034) correlated with an increased risk of infertility. On the other hand, c.206 + 235 T > C, was more freuqent in the control group, showing protective association. Our findings suggest that polymorphisms in the KLK3 gene correlate with infertility risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishi Gupta
- Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Gopal Gupta
- Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
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Scott A, Glasgow A, Small D, Carlile S, McCrudden M, McLean D, Brown R, Doherty D, Lundy FT, Hamid UI, O'Kane CM, McAuley DF, Brodlie M, Tunney M, Elborn JS, Irwin CR, Timson DJ, Taggart CC, Weldon S. Characterisation of eppin function: expression and activity in the lung. Eur Respir J 2017; 50:50/1/1601937. [DOI: 10.1183/13993003.01937-2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Eppin is a serine protease inhibitor expressed in male reproductive tissues.The aim of this study was to investigate the localisation and regulation of eppin expression in myeloid and epithelial cell lines, and explore its potential role as a multifunctional host defence protein.Using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting, eppin was detected in the lungs of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome and cystic fibrosis lung disease. Expression of eppin in monocytic cells was unaffected by stimulation with Toll-like receptor agonists, cytokines and hormone receptor agonists. However, upregulated expression and secretion of eppin was observed following treatment of monocytes with epidermal growth factor. Incubation of recombinant eppin with monocytic cells resulted in significant inhibition of lipopolysaccharide-induced chemokine production. Furthermore, eppin inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced NF-κB activation by a mechanism which involved accumulation of phosphorylated IκBα. In anin vivomodel of lung inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide, eppin administration resulted in decreased recruitment of neutrophils to the lung with a concomitant reduction in the levels of the neutrophil chemokine macrophage inflammatory protein-2.Overall, these results suggest a role for eppin outside of the reproductive tract and that eppin may have a role in the innate immune response in the lung.
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24
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Abnormal Expression of Sg I is Closely Related to Seminal Vesiculitis. Urology 2016; 88:227.e9-227.e14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2015.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Revised: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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25
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O'Rand MG, Silva EJR, Hamil KG. Non-hormonal male contraception: A review and development of an Eppin based contraceptive. Pharmacol Ther 2015; 157:105-11. [PMID: 26593445 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2015.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Developing a non-hormonal male contraceptive requires identifying and characterizing an appropriate target and demonstrating its essential role in reproduction. Here we review the development of male contraceptive targets and the current therapeutic agents under consideration. In addition, the development of EPPIN as a target for contraception is reviewed. EPPIN is a well characterized surface protein on human spermatozoa that has an essential function in primate reproduction. EPPIN is discussed as an example of target development, testing in non-human primates, and the search for small organic compounds that mimic contraceptive antibodies; binding EPPIN and blocking sperm motility. Although many hurdles remain before the success of a non-hormonal male contraceptive, continued persistence should yield a marketable product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael G O'Rand
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States; Eppin Pharma Inc., Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, United States.
| | - Erick J R Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP 18618-970, Brazil
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Yan P, He W, Wu Y, Chen Z, He H, Ni B, Zhang J, Yang X, Shen Z, Fu X, Liang Z, Li J. Enhanced Suppression of Fertility Can be Achieved by Priming with FSHR and Eppin and Further Boosting with Their B-cell Epitope Peptides. Am J Reprod Immunol 2015; 74:156-68. [PMID: 25864521 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ping Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuzhang Wu
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengqiong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haiyang He
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bing Ni
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ji Zhang
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xia Yang
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zigang Shen
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaolan Fu
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhiqing Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jintao Li
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military University, Chongqing, China
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Sitruk-Ware R, Nath A. Applying emerging science to contraception research: implications for the clinic. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2015; 10:115-126. [PMID: 30289046 DOI: 10.1586/17446651.2015.972369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Emerging science will make an important contribution towards the development of improved contraceptives. While long-acting reversible contraceptives remain the most effective method, new user-controlled, mid-acting methods will avoid the need for procedures requiring trained providers. Contraceptives combined with other agents may bring additional health benefits, such as dual protection against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Emerging research areas in proteomics allowed the discovery of new reproductive targets that may lead to non-hormonal contraceptives for both men and women. Current research objectives include the improvement of existing contraceptive methods, as well as discovery of new materials able to deliver new molecules more specifically to their target without systemic actions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anita Nath
- b 2 Karnataka Health Promotion Trust, Bangalore, India
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Liu B, Song Z, Xu A, Su S, Wang Z, Yin C. Is abnormal expression of semenogelin I involved with seminal vesiculitis? Med Hypotheses 2014; 82:338-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2013.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2013] [Accepted: 12/28/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Kumar S, Tomar AK, Singh S, Gill K, Dey S, Singh S, Yadav S. Heparin binding carboxypeptidase E protein exhibits antibacterial activity in human semen. Int J Biol Macromol 2014; 64:319-27. [PMID: 24365672 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2013.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Revised: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 12/15/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Carboxypeptidase E (CPE) cleaves basic amino acid residues at the C-terminal end and involves in the biosynthesis of numerous peptide hormones and neurotransmitters. It was purified from human seminal plasma by ion exchange, heparin affinity and gel filtration chromatography followed by identification through SDS-PAGE and MALDI-TOF/MS analysis, which was further confirmed by western blotting. CPE was characterized as glycoprotein by Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) staining and treating with deglycosylating enzyme N-glycosidase F. The interaction of CPE with heparin was illustrated by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and in silico interaction analysis. The association constant (KA) and dissociation constant (KD) of CPE with heparin was determined by SPR and found to be 1.06 × 10(5)M and 9.46 × 10(-6)M, respectively. It was detected in human spermatozoa also by western blotting using mouse anti-CPE primary antibody. 20-100 μg/ml concentration of CPE was observed as highly effective in killing Escherichia coli by colony forming unit (CFU) assay. We suggest that CPE might act not only in the innate immunity of male reproductive tract but also regulate sperm fertilization process by interacting heparin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay Kumar
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India
| | - Anil Kumar Tomar
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India
| | - Sudhuman Singh
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, India
| | - Kamaldeep Gill
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India
| | - Sharmistha Dey
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India
| | - Sarman Singh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Savita Yadav
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India.
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Zhang X, Fang J, Xu B, Zhang S, Su S, Song Z, Deng Y, Wang H, Zhao D, Niu X, Wang Z. Correlation of epididymal protease inhibitor and fibronectin in human semen. PLoS One 2013; 8:e82600. [PMID: 24358212 PMCID: PMC3865146 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0082600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2013] [Accepted: 10/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Epididymal protease inhibitor (Eppin) was located on the surface of spermatozoa and modulates the liquefaction of human semen. Here, we identify the correlative protein partner of Eppin to explore the molecular mechanism of liquefaction of human semen. Methods (1) Human seminal vesicle proteins were transferred on the membrane by Western blotting and separated by 2-D electrophoresis and incubated in recombinant Eppin. The correlative protein was identified by Mass Spectrometry (MS) (2). Western blotting was used to determine the relation of rEppin and rFibronectin(Fn); (3) Co-localization in spermatozoa were detected using immunofluorescence; (4) Correalation of Eppin and Fn was proved by co-immunoprecipitation. Results Fn was identified as the binding partner of recombinant Eppin by MS. Recombinant of Eppin was made and demonstrated that the Eppin fragment binds the fn 607-1265 fragment. The Eppin-Fn complex presents on the sperm tail and particularly in the midpiece region of human ejaculated spermatozoa. Immunoprecipitation indicated that Eppin in the spermatozoa lysates was complexed with Fn. Conclusions Our study demonstrates that Eppin and Fn bind to each other in human semen and on human ejaculated spermatozoa. Eppin-Fn complex may involve in semen coagulation, liquefaction and the survival and preparation of spermatozoa for fertility in the female reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangxiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Urology, Jiangsu Provice Official Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianzheng Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bin Xu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University, Dingjiaqiao, Nanjing, China
| | - Shengli Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shifeng Su
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhen Song
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yunfei Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hainan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaobing Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zengjun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- * E-mail:
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Anklesaria JH, Jagtap DD, Pathak BR, Kadam KM, Joseph S, Mahale SD. Prostate Secretory Protein of 94 amino acids (PSP94) binds to prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) in human seminal plasma. PLoS One 2013; 8:e58631. [PMID: 23469287 PMCID: PMC3587604 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0058631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2012] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate Secretory Protein of 94 amino acids (PSP94) is one of the major proteins present in the human seminal plasma. Though several functions have been predicted for this protein, its exact role either in sperm function or in prostate pathophysiology has not been clearly defined. Attempts to understand the mechanism of action of PSP94 has led to the search for its probable binding partners. This has resulted in the identification of PSP94 binding proteins in plasma and seminal plasma from human. During the chromatographic separation step of proteins from human seminal plasma by reversed phase HPLC, we had observed that in addition to the main fraction of PSP94, other fractions containing higher molecular weight proteins also showed the presence of detectable amounts of PSP94. This prompted us to hypothesize that PSP94 could be present in the seminal plasma complexed with other protein/s of higher molecular weight. One such fraction containing a major protein of ~47 kDa, on characterization by mass spectrometric analysis, was identified to be Prostatic Acid Phosphatase (PAP). The ability of PAP present in this fraction to bind to PSP94 was demonstrated by affinity chromatography. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments confirmed the presence of PSP94-PAP complex both in the fraction studied and in the fresh seminal plasma. In silico molecular modeling of the PSP94-PAP complex suggests that β-strands 1 and 6 of PSP94 appear to interact with domain 2 of PAP, while β-strands 7 and 10 with domain 1 of PAP. This is the first report which suggests that PSP94 can bind to PAP and the PAP-bound PSP94 is present in human seminal plasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenifer H. Anklesaria
- Division of Structural Biology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Dhanashree D. Jagtap
- Division of Structural Biology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Bhakti R. Pathak
- Division of Structural Biology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Kaushiki M. Kadam
- Proteomics Facility, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Shaini Joseph
- ICMR Biomedical Informatics Centre, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Smita D. Mahale
- Division of Structural Biology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai, India
- ICMR Biomedical Informatics Centre, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai, India
- * E-mail:
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32
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Zumoffen CM, Gil R, Caille AM, Morente C, Munuce MJ, Ghersevich SA. A protein isolated from human oviductal tissue in vitro secretion, identified as human lactoferrin, interacts with spermatozoa and oocytes and modulates gamete interaction. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:1297-308. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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33
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Cappallo-Obermann H, Feig C, Schulze W, Spiess AN. Fold-change correction values for testicular somatic transcripts in gene expression studies of human spermatogenesis. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:590-8. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Zhou J, Kong C, Yuan Z, Luo J, Ma R, Yu J, Cao J. Preparation, characterization, and determination of immunological activities of transfer factor specific to human sperm antigen. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2012; 2013:126923. [PMID: 23484076 PMCID: PMC3591249 DOI: 10.1155/2013/126923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2012] [Revised: 10/22/2012] [Accepted: 11/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to prepare, characterize, and determine immunological activities of specific transfer factor (STF) specific to human sperm antigen (HSA) for the preparation of antisperm contraceptive vaccine that can be used as an immunocontraceptive. METHODS. HSA-STF was prepared using the spleens of rabbits vaccinated with HSA. The specific immunological activities were examined by lymphocyte proliferation test (LPT), leukocyte adhesion inhibition test (LAIT), and by determining the concentrations of IL-4, γ -IFN, and IL-21. HSA-STF was a helveolous substance, having a pH value of 7.0 ± 0.4 and UV absorption maxima at 258 ± 6 nm. It contained seventeen amino acids; glycine and glutamic acids were the highest in terms of concentrations (38.8 μ g/mL and 36.3 μ g/mL, resp.). RESULTS. The concentration of polypeptide was 2.34 ± 0.31 mg/mL, and ribose was 0.717 ± 0.043 mg/mL. The stimulation index for lymphocyte proliferation test was 1.84, and the leukocyte adhesion inhibition rate was 37.7%. There was a statistically significant difference between the cultural lymphocytes with HSA-STF and non-HSA-STF for γ -IFN and IL-21 (P < 0.05), but there was no statistical significance for IL-4 (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION. HSA-STF was prepared and characterized successfully. It had immunological activity which could transfer the immune response specific to HSA and prove to be a potential candidate for the development of male immunocontraceptive agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianwei Zhou
- Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical College, Shandong, Jining 272029, China.
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35
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Silva EJR, Patrão MTCC, Tsuruta JK, O'Rand MG, Avellar MCW. Epididymal protease inhibitor (EPPIN) is differentially expressed in the male rat reproductive tract and immunolocalized in maturing spermatozoa. Mol Reprod Dev 2012; 79:832-42. [PMID: 23070980 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2012] [Accepted: 09/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
EPPIN (epididymal protease inhibitor; SPINLW1), an antimicrobial cysteine-rich protein containing both Kunitz and whey acidic protein (WAP)-type four disulfide core protease inhibitor consensus sequences, is a target for male contraception because of its critical role in sperm motility. Here, we characterized EPPIN's expression and cellular distribution in rat tissues and its in vivo regulation by androgens in the epididymis. EPPIN (mRNA and protein) was abundantly expressed in the rat testis and epididymis; we also found that the vas deferens, seminal vesicles, and brain were novel sites of EPPIN expression. PCR studies demonstrated that in addition to Sertoli cells, spermatogenic cells expressed Eppin mRNA. EPPIN was immunolocalized in Sertoli cells and spermatogenic cells (pachytene spermatocytes and round and elongated spermatids) and in epithelial cells and spermatozoa from efferent ductules and epididymis. EPPIN staining was observed on the middle and principal pieces of the flagellum of testicular spermatozoa. Epididymal spermatozoa had more intense EPPIN staining on the flagellum, and the EPPIN staining became apparent on the head and neck regions. This suggested that the EPPIN found on maturing spermatozoa was secreted primarily by the epithelial cells of the epididymis. Surgical castration down-regulated EPPIN expression levels (mRNA and protein) in the caput and cauda epididymis, an effect reversed by testosterone replacement. Altogether, our data suggested that EPPIN expression in rats is more widespread than in humans and mice, and is androgen-dependent in the epididymis. This species could be used as an experimental model to further study EPPIN's role in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erick J R Silva
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - Escola Paulista de Medicina, SP, Brazil.
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36
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Silva EJR, Hamil KG, Richardson RT, O'Rand MG. Characterization of EPPIN's semenogelin I binding site: a contraceptive drug target. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:56. [PMID: 22699487 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.101832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Epididymal protease inhibitor (EPPIN) is found on the surface of spermatozoa and works as a central hub for a sperm surface protein complex (EPPIN protein complex [EPC]) that inhibits sperm motility on the binding of semenogelin I (SEMG1) during ejaculation. Here, we identify EPPIN's amino acids involved in the interactions within the EPC and demonstrate that EPPIN's sequence C102-P133 contains the major binding site for SEMG1. Within the same region, the sequence F117-P133 binds the EPC-associated protein lactotransferrin (LTF). We show that residues Cys102, Tyr107, and Phe117 in the EPPIN C-terminus are required for SEMG1 binding. Additionally, residues Tyr107 and Phe117 are critically involved in the interaction between EPPIN and LTF. Our findings demonstrate that EPPIN is a key player in the protein-protein interactions within the EPC. Target identification is an important step toward the development of a novel male contraceptive, and the functionality of EPPIN's residues Cys102, Tyr107, and Phe117 offers novel opportunities for contraceptive compounds that inhibit sperm motility by targeting this region of the molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erick J R Silva
- The Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7090, USA.
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37
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Les approches épididymaires de la contraception masculine. Basic Clin Androl 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s12610-012-0186-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Résumé
L’offre en matière de moyens contraceptifs masculins est limitée et, en particulier, à ce jour il n’existe pas de contraception hormonale masculine sur le marché. L’épididyme, dans lequel les spermatozoïdes acquièrent leurs capacités fécondantes et où ils sont stockés, s’avère être un site intéressant à cibler. Cette revue vise à présenter de façon synthétique les quelques pistes prometteuses qui ont émergé ces dernières années.
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38
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Muciaccia B, Pensini S, Culasso F, Padula F, Paoli D, Gandini L, Di Veroli C, Bianchini G, Stefanini M, D'Agostino A. Higher clusterin immunolabeling and sperm DNA damage levels in hypertensive men compared with controls. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2267-76. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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39
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Alexander DB, Iigo M, Yamauchi K, Suzui M, Tsuda H. Lactoferrin: an alternative view of its role in human biological fluids. Biochem Cell Biol 2012; 90:279-306. [PMID: 22553915 DOI: 10.1139/o2012-013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin is a major component of biologically important mucosal fluids and of the specific granules of neutrophils. Understanding its biological function is essential for understanding neutrophil- and mucosal-mediated immunity. In this review, we reevaluate the in vivo functions of human lactoferrin (hLF) emphasizing in vivo studies and in vitro studies performed in biologically relevant fluids. We discuss the evidence in the literature that supports (or does not support) proposed roles for hLF in mucosal immunity and in neutrophil function. We argue that the current literature supports a microbiostatic role, but not a microbicidal role, for hLF in vivo. The literature also supports a role for hLF in inhibiting colonization and infection of epithelial surfaces by microorganisms and in protecting tissues from neutrophil-mediated damage. Using this information, we briefly discuss hLF in the context of the complex biological fluids in which it is found.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Alexander
- Laboratory of Nanotoxicology Project, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabedohri, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya 467-8603, Japan.
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40
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Han Z, Wang Z, Cheng G, Liu B, Li P, Li J, Wang W, Yin C, Zhang W. Presence, localization, and origin of clusterin in normal human spermatozoa. J Assist Reprod Genet 2012; 29:751-7. [PMID: 22552734 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-012-9779-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2012] [Accepted: 04/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Clusterin in mammalian semen is a secretory form of clusterin (sCLU) with the heterodimeric structure. It is secreted by the epididymis and seminal vesicle. It is generally agreed that clusterin mainly exists on the surface of abnormal spermatozoa and is implicated in decreased sperm motility, sperm aggregation and infertility. However, few studies observe clusterin in normal spermatozoa, which is presumed to be a novel form. Up to now, the systematical information about the presence, localization, origin and function of clusterin in normal human spermatozoa has yet not been established. The aim of our current study is to systematically research clusterin in normal human spermatozoa. METHODS We detected the presence of clusterin via western blot, explored the localization of clusterin using immunofluorescence, and investigated the origin and distribution of clusterin in human testis by western blot and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS We found native clusterin in the inner plasma membrane of normal human spermatozoa. It was derived from the testis and showed similar molecular weight and heterodimeric structure compared with sCLU in semen and on the surface of abnormal spermatozoa. CONCLUSION Clusterin in normal spermatozoa should be self-synthesized during the later stage of spermatogenesis. The different localization and origin suggested that the clusterin observed by us may be a novel form compared with conventional sCLU on the surface of abnormal spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijian Han
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
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O'Rand MG, Widgren EE. Loss of calcium in human spermatozoa via EPPIN, the semenogelin receptor. Biol Reprod 2012; 86:55. [PMID: 22075473 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.094227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of a new male contraceptive requires a transition from animal model to human and an understanding of the mechanisms involved in the target's inhibition of human spermatozoan fertility. We now report that semenogelin (SEMG1) and anti-EPPIN antibodies to a defined target site of 21 amino acids on the C terminal of EPPIN cause the loss of intracellular calcium, as measured by Fluo-4. The loss of intracellular calcium explains our previous observations of an initial loss of progressive motility and eventually the complete loss of motility when spermatozoa are treated with SEMG1 or anti-EPPIN antibodies. Thimerosal can rescue the effects of SEMG1 on motility, implying that internal stores of calcium are not depleted. Additionally, SEMG1 treatment of spermatozoa decreases the intracellular pH, and motility can be rescued by ammonium chloride. The results of this study demonstrate that EPPIN controls sperm motility in the ejaculate by binding SEMG1, resulting in the loss of calcium, most likely through a disturbance of internal pH and an inhibition of uptake mechanisms. However, the exact steps through which the EPPIN-SEMG1 complex exerts its effect on internal calcium levels are unknown. Anti-EPPIN antibodies can substitute for SEMG1, and, therefore, small-molecular weight compounds that mimic anti-EPPIN binding should be able to substitute for SEMG1, providing the basis for a nonantibody, nonhormonal male contraceptive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael G O'Rand
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA.
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Liu B, Su S, Wang P, Niu X, Yang X, Zhang W, Wang Z, Wang X. The value of epididymal protease inhibitor in differential diagnosis between obstructive azoospermia and non-obstructive azoospermia. Andrologia 2011; 43:346-52. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2011.01085.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Abstract
Our laboratory has characterized EPPIN [epididymal protease inhibitor; SPINLW1] as a novel gene on human chromosome 20q12-13.2, which encodes a cysteine-rich protein of 133 amino acids with a calculated molecular mass of 15.283 kDa, containing both Kunitz-type and WAP (whey acidic protein)-type four-disulfide core consensus sequences. Eppin is secreted by Sertoli cells in the testis and epididymal epithelial cells; it is predominantly a dimer, although multimers often exist, and in its native form eppin is found on the human sperm surface complexed with LTF (lactotransferrin) and clusterin. During ejaculation SEMG (semenogelin) from the seminal vesicles binds to the eppin protein complex, initiating a series of events that define eppin's function. Eppin's functions include (i) modulating PSA (prostate-specific antigen) enzyme activity, (ii) providing antimicrobial protection and (iii) binding SEMG thereby inhibiting sperm motility. As PSA hydrolyses SEMG in the ejaculate coagulum, spermatozoa gain progressive motility. We have demonstrated that eppin is essential for fertility because immunization of male monkeys with recombinant eppin results in complete, but reversible, contraception. To exploit our understanding of eppin's function, we are developing compounds that inhibit eppin–SEMG interaction and mimic anti-eppin, inhibiting sperm motility. These compounds should have potential as a male contraceptive.
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Bernardini A, Hozbor F, Sanchez E, Fornés M, Alberio R, Cesari A. Conserved ram seminal plasma proteins bind to the sperm membrane and repair cryopreservation damage. Theriogenology 2011; 76:436-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2010] [Revised: 02/16/2011] [Accepted: 02/16/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Ferreira Z, Hurle B, Rocha J, Seixas S. Differing evolutionary histories of WFDC8 (short-term balancing) in Europeans and SPINT4 (incomplete selective sweep) in Africans. Mol Biol Evol 2011; 28:2811-22. [PMID: 21536719 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msr106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The whey acidic protein four-disulfide core (WFDC) gene cluster on human chromosome 20q13, harbors 15 small serine protease inhibitor genes with roles in innate immunity, reproduction, and regulation of endogenous proteases kallikreins. The WFDC cluster has emerged as a prime example of rapid diversification and adaptive evolution in primates. This study sought a better understanding of the evolutionary history of WFDC genes in humans and focused on exploring the adaptive selection signatures found in populations of European (Utah residents with ancestry from northern and western Europe [CEU]) and African (Yoruba from Ibadan, in Nigeria [YRI]) ancestry in a genome-wide scan for putative targets of recent adaptive selection. Our approach included resequencing coding and noncoding regions of WFDC6, EPPIN, and WFDC8 in 20 CEU and of SPINT4 in 20 YRI individuals. We generated 302 kb and 60 kb of high-quality sequence data from CEU and of YRI populations, respectively, enabling the identification of 72 single nucleotide polymorphisms. Using classic neutrality tests, empirical and haplotype-based analysis, we pinpointed WFDC8 and SPINT4 as the likely targets of short-term balancing selection in the CEU population, and recent positive selection (incomplete selective sweep) in the YRI population. Putative candidate variants targeted by selection include 44A (rs7273669A) for WFDC8, which may downregulate gene expression by abolishing the binding site of two transcription factors; and a haplotype configuration [Ser73+98A] (rs6017667A-rs6032474A) for SPINT4, which may simultaneously affect protein function and gene regulation. We propose that the evolution of WFDC8 and SPINT4 has been shaped by complex selective scenarios due to the interdependence of variant fitness and ecological variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zélia Ferreira
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Paasch U, Heidenreich F, Pursche T, Kuhlisch E, Kettner K, Grunewald S, Kratzsch J, Dittmar G, Glander HJ, Hoflack B, Kriegel TM. Identification of increased amounts of eppin protein complex components in sperm cells of diabetic and obese individuals by difference gel electrophoresis. Mol Cell Proteomics 2011; 10:M110.007187. [PMID: 21525168 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m110.007187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic disorders like diabetes mellitus and obesity may compromise the fertility of men and women. To unveil disease-associated proteomic changes potentially affecting male fertility, the proteomes of sperm cells from type-1 diabetic, type-2 diabetic, non-diabetic obese and clinically healthy individuals were comparatively analyzed by difference gel electrophoresis. The adaptation of a general protein extraction procedure to the solubilization of proteins from sperm cells allowed for the resolution of 3187 fluorescent spots in the difference gel electrophoresis image of the master gel, which contained the entirety of solubilized sperm proteins. Comparison of the pathological and reference proteomes by applying an average abundance ratio setting of 1.6 and a p ≤ 0.05 criterion resulted in the identification of 79 fluorescent spots containing proteins that were present at significantly changed levels in the sperm cells. Biometric evaluation of the fluorescence data followed by mass spectrometric protein identification revealed altered levels of 12, 71, and 13 protein species in the proteomes of the type-1 diabetic, type-2 diabetic, and non-diabetic obese patients, respectively, with considerably enhanced amounts of the same set of one molecular form of semenogelin-1, one form of clusterin, and two forms of lactotransferrin in each group of pathologic samples. Remarkably, β-galactosidase-1-like protein was the only protein that was detected at decreased levels in all three pathologic situations. The former three proteins are part of the eppin (epididymal proteinase inhibitor) protein complex, which is thought to fulfill fertilization-related functions, such as ejaculate sperm protection, motility regulation and gain of competence for acrosome reaction, whereas the putative role of the latter protein to function as a glycosyl hydrolase during sperm maturation remains to be explored at the protein/enzyme level. The strikingly similar differences detected in the three groups of pathological sperm proteomes reflect a disease-associated enhanced formation of predominantly proteolytically modified forms of three eppin protein complex components, possibly as a response to enduring hyperglycemia and enhanced oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe Paasch
- University of Leipzig, Medical Faculty, Department of Dermatology, Training Center of the European Academy of Andrology, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany.
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McLaughlin EA, Aitken RJ. Is there a role for immunocontraception? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2011; 335:78-88. [PMID: 20412833 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2010.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2009] [Revised: 03/31/2010] [Accepted: 04/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The world's population is continuing to grow at an alarming rate and yet no novel methods of contraception have been introduced since 1960s. The paucity of our current contraceptive armoury is indicated by the 46 million abortions that are performed each year, largely in developing countries where population growth is greatest. Thus, whatever new forms of fertility control we develop for the next millennium, the particular needs of developing countries should be borne in mind. Contraceptive vaccines have the potential to provide safe, effective, prolonged, reversible protection against pregnancy in a form that can be easily administered in the Third World. In this review we consider the contraceptive targets that might be pursued, how vaccines might be engineered and the problems generated by inter-individual variations in antibody titre. We conclude that the specifications for a safe, effective, reversible vaccine are more likely to be met in animals than man.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A McLaughlin
- Discipline of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
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Liu B, Su S, Wang P, Niu X, Yang X, Zhang W, Wang Z, Wang X. The value of epididymal protease inhibitor in differential diagnosis between obstructive azoospermia and non-obstructive azoospermia. Andrologia 2011. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2010.01085.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
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49
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Liu B, Wang P, Wang Z, Zhang W. The use of anti-VDAC2 antibody for the combined assessment of human sperm acrosome integrity and ionophore A23187-induced acrosome reaction. PLoS One 2011; 6:e16985. [PMID: 21347391 PMCID: PMC3036732 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0016985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2010] [Accepted: 01/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) is mainly located in the mitochondrial outer membrane and participates in many biological processes. In mammals, three VDAC subtypes (VDAC1, 2 and 3) have been identified. Although VDAC has been extensively studied in various tissues and cells, there is little knowledge about the distribution and function of VDAC in male mammalian reproductive system. Several studies have demonstrated that VDAC exists in mammalian spermatozoa and is implicated in spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, motility and fertilization. However, there is no knowledge about the respective localization and function of three VDAC subtypes in human spermatozoa. In this study, we focused on the presence of VDAC2 in human spermatozoa and its possible role in the acrosomal integrity and acrosome reaction using specific anti-VDAC2 monoclonal antibody for the first time. The results exhibited that native VDAC2 existed in the membrane components of human spermatozoa. The co-incubation of spermatozoa with anti-VDAC2 antibody did not affect the acrosomal integrity and acrosome reaction, but inhibited ionophore A23187-induced intracellular Ca2+ increase. Our study suggested that VDAC2 was located in the acrosomal membrane or plasma membrane of human spermatozoa, and played putative roles in sperm functions through mediating Ca2+ transmembrane transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianjiang Liu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zengjun Wang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- * E-mail: (WZ); (ZW)
| | - Wei Zhang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- * E-mail: (WZ); (ZW)
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50
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Characterization of lactoferrin receptor on human spermatozoa. Reprod Biomed Online 2010; 22:155-61. [PMID: 21195028 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2010.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2010] [Revised: 10/01/2010] [Accepted: 10/07/2010] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Lactoferrin (LF) is abundant in human seminal plasma and on sperm surfaces. However, lactoferrin receptor (LFR) on human spermatozoa has not yet been reported. To study the expression, localization and characteristics of LFR on human spermatozoa, different experimental approaches were applied: LFR gene was amplified from a human testis cDNA library and recombinant LFR (rLFR) protein was produced in the expression vector Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3); human sperm membrane proteins were extracted and analysed via Western blot; the binding of LF to LFR was investigated by Far-Western blot, immunoprecipitation and autoradiography analysis and the localization of LFR on sperm surfaces was detected using immunofluorescence. LFR gene was amplified from a human testis cDNA library and the molecular weight of rLFR was 34kDa. The native LFR on human spermatozoa was a 136-kDa tetramer which was anchored to the sperm head and mid-piece through glycophosphatidylinositol. LF could bind to LFR competitively in vitro. As far as is known, this study has elucidated for the first time that LFR was expressed at the testis level, was anchored to the sperm membrane by glycophosphatidylinositol during spermatogenesis. LFR may play important roles through binding to and mediating LF.
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